Sanctuary

by Mauled2Death

Pushing onwards to see his fate through, TJ's journey continues in book two of Frequency: Sanctuary. In order to gather his remaining memories he and his companions strive to defeat some of the greatest Agasuras Jienda has ever seen to collect the pages of a magical tome named Memorius Sanctum. Yggdrasil finds itself in a race against time to complete the book or die trying.

13. Water Lily

The Ninth Harmony: Water Lily

"Perhaps it's all the light we can't see that means the world to us. But it doesn't take someone with 20/20 vision to see a love deeper than that of the oceans' depths." (Reina Falk)

TJ slowly opened his eyes and gently rubbed them. It still felt hard to believe, but he was at home and safe after an encounter with Choen Palm. He arose from his position and looked at his hands. He curled his fingers and clenched his fists somewhat in disbelief, and somewhat to assure himself it were true. They survived…they all did. He let out a gentle sigh of relief as he wrapped his arms around his torso. He could not thank Peorth enough for all that she had done for him-if it was not for her he may have not escaped that battle.

He climbed out of bed and made his way to the washroom to prepare for the day. As he looked into the mirror he noticed he was dressed in pajamas, but could not recall the time he spent changing into them. Perhaps he was half awake when he had done it? He set the matter aside for the time being as he splashed some water in his face to wake up.

After a nice bath he changed into his usual clothes and made his way downstairs. The sound of a knife against a cutting board drew his attention. If anyone was to be up this early, it would likely be Peorth, but Curt was also a possibility.

As he made his way down he leaned over the banister and saw a sight that threw him off completely. There was a life-sized brownie at the counter cutting something. He blinked, rubbed his eyes, checked his forehead for a fever and looked again. She was still there.

…Was he dreaming? If so, then perhaps he could enjoy it to the fullest. He placed his hands to his cheeks as a wide smile spread from cheek to cheek. He spread his wings and leapt over the banister, then used them to shoot towards the counter, latch on and nuzzle her.

"A brownie!" He shouted with unbridled jubilation. "My own real live brownie!"

Something felt off, so he stopped. The smell of honey drew his attention. The silky feel of her hair, the icy blue colour and the smooth feeling of her cheeks that were soft to the touch…

"It is dangerous to use knives in the presence of another," The brownie said, "I have placed it down now, so you may continue at your leisure…nyo." That voice and old fashioned way of speaking!

"Ch-Chief!" TJ cried out as he leapt off of her. "S-s-sorry!"

She turned to him with flushed cheeks. "You need not apologize TJ. It is true you startled me, but you did not bother me at all."

"Really?" He looked up at her apologetically.

"Yes."

He nodded slightly, but his head remained lowered. She had likely been looking after him since yesterday. Whenever he got into some kind of trouble she was always there to take care of him. He thought of thanking her, but just saying it did not feel like it would convey the feelings he held within his chest. Whenever she was happy, they would hug, right? Perhaps that way he could express his thanks. But…it was really embarrassing to do it face-to-face.

"Chief would you…turn around for a little bit?"

She tilted her head quizzically. "If it is what you wish than I shall oblige." At that she turned around without another word.

He took a deep breath and a couple steps forward. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pressed his cheek to her back. "Chief…umm…thanks for looking after me…when I was…you know…" He muttered.

A small breath like a chuckle escaped her lips and his embarrassment increased tenfold. His cheeks felt hot and he instinctively held her tighter. She placed a hand to her mouth as a couple quiet chuckles escaped her lips.

She…laughed? That was a rare thing…but what timing! He felt his embarrassment abate somewhat as a small smile spread across his face. As his fingers slid away from each other she began to laugh more and he began to see a connection.

"T-TJ hold a moment-I am very…" Her quiet chuckles turned to outright laughter as he tickled her. "TJ hold-I cannot…!" She turned to look at him and knocked him over with her arm, causing both to fall to the ground.

He rubbed his back as he laughed guiltily. "S-sorry Chief…I kinda got caught in the moment."

The guild master lifted her head up to meet his as her hat fell off. She was lying on the ground too with her torso resting between his legs and her head resting against his stomach. She had tears in both her eyes. "TJ, it is not appropriate to tease your elders through such a means."

He opened his mouth to speak but no words came out. His heart started beating rapidly and his cheeks flushed as he groped around for the words he wanted, but drew a blank. There was one thought that did come clearly though-that she had a really cute side.

Peorth finished preparing breakfast and had changed into a pair of grey shorts and a light blue tank top. In comparison to her usual outfit, it would be a lot easier to move in. TJ could not help but wonder what the occasion was so he decided he would ask her about it while they ate.

"TJ, would you lay out the tableware for me?" She asked over her shoulder.

"Sure Chief." He answered as he got up and took the plates, forks and knives to the table.

As he did he looked around the room and noticed Curt was nowhere to be found. "Where'd Curt go?"

"He said he had some business to do so he would be leaving early. He also wished for me to give you his regards."

"O-oh." The Abellan knit his eyebrows. Was he really alright to move after the dungeon? He seemed pretty beat up, but if he could get out on his own and Peorth saw him off, he must have been fine. Probably.

Peorth joined TJ at the table and the two began to eat.

"TJ, there is something of import I would like to discuss with you." She began as she placed her fork down.

"Hm? Go ahead." He said with a mouthful. He took the fork out of his mouth and put on his best serious face. …While he chewed his food.

"In the near future, I would like to unite the Cerebians as their queen. To do so, I would like to host a summit in the heart of the Haven Lemanin. There, we will not only meet with the guild masters of some of the most influential guilds, but also the God's Governor of Wind." He blinked as she explained her plans. It was a surprise to hear that she wanted to reveal herself as the queen, but even more surprising Lucia and the girls already found the God's Governor of Wind.

"I have taken into great consideration the state of affairs across Jienda, and as the Agasuric threat grows stronger I realize that we too, must unite our forces and prepare.

"As you are aware, Choen Palm is one that we must not underestimate at all costs. She was strong without it, but with her shard of the Heart of Yggdrasil she can easily rival both you and I. Alas, defeating her is not a simple matter, and outright killing her runs the risk that we will lose the Heart of Yggdrasil. That is but only one of two possibilities. The other being that she would grow stronger due to the flow of Agasuric mana increasing. I cannot say with certainty that her body would create a response that is dissimilar to your own. If this was the case, we would be in even greater danger." She closed her eyes gently. "I do not wish for her to run rampant, but I would not put your life at risk with such uncertain feelings.

"With that thought in mind, there is certainly a way that we can fight her on even or greater footing. That would be, to help you to take the next step in your growth as the Abellan. Metamorphosis. I confess, gathering the God's Governors is only one small step in a series of events that must be seen through to achieve this goal. Returning Xenadia to the surface world, completing the Governors trials…and finding Iris Livier…these are all steps we must take in this journey."

TJ's eyes opened wide at the last step Peorth mentioned. "F-finding Iris?! But she…"

"It is possible, yes. But her death is nothing more than theory. I cannot help but suspect that there was more to her defeat by the Demon King's hand than what we may know. The result of the battle, the escape of her companions, and the disappearance of both Livier and Agasura raises many possibilities. The fact that you are here now, is the last facet of truth that I pursue. I am positive that we are not the only ones puzzled by this matter, but the fact remains that we must find her.

"There are only three shards apart from your piece of the Heart of Yggdrasil, respectively belonging to Choen Palm, Iris Livier and I. Knowing the fate that you carried, and potentially being one of the proxies that would shoulder it, I am sure that she had a counter measure in mind should she not be the one you sided with. After all, we share a goal. That being, to save Jienda from Agasura King Asmodeus."

TJ nodded solemnly. He knew not what happened to Iris, and even if he was to pursue her he would not find her at the time he decided to join the Cerebians. It was possible that Iris' companions could lead him to find out the truth to her whereabouts, but the cost was great. If it was Peorth though…and considering what she knew, it was possible that Iris was still alive and out there. If she had the other shard of the Heart of Yggdrasil, it was only natural that the two would meet again. To save the world was his ultimate goal, but to find out what events conspired in the past was not something he had forgotten. His time with Peorth was only a portion of it.

"Do you really think she's still out there somewhere?" He asked with a hint of unease in his voice. He felt somewhat guilty that he still had lingering feelings for a girl from his past, but she was still an influential person in his life. Was it wrong that he still had concern for her?

She nodded. "It is inevitable. Her companions have sought her out since the battle, and the remnants she had left behind in the Save Stones…are without a doubt proof of that fact. Prior to the event, they neither contained your memories nor those of Iris and company. It was not until after the battle that they had taken up this change.

"But let us not dwell on the matter of Iris Livier and company for now. Our main priority is defeating the Sinners and lending our aid to the God's Governors. If what I was taught and read is correct, the God's Governors must each complete a respective trial to prove that they are prepared to become true God's Governors. As we discussed before, to complete this ritual in it's entirety will allow for them to awaken. Currently, we have only seen two God's Governors with the ability to do so."

Amata and Freya. Both were really dedicated in their own respects, and perhaps it was that strong willpower of theirs that allowed them to perform the transformation. As he recalled the events, he felt a bit envious. They were both very impressive and cool in their own respects. "I knew Amata could do it since way back when after the first time we fought her but…Freya really surprised me!" He said as he scratched his cheek.

"I was quite baffled also. It seems that it is not training alone that makes a God's Governor powerful. There is much and more that we do not know about them, but I am certain we will in due time. I hope that you will not have any issue befriending them TJ. I will assist you to the best of my ability."

He laughed gently. "I think we'll be alright Chief." He got along well with most of them. He and Su had been together for ages and there were no problems there. Though they had a rough start, he and Amata seemed to patch things up and get along well too. Kooh was strange, and she was friends with everyone, so there were no problems there. As for Freya, she was in a league of her own-maybe they got along too well. All that was left, was God's Governor of Wind. TJ knew little about him, but supposedly he liked pretty girls? He might prove to be a tough nut to crack.

"Nevertheless, as the saying goes, we shall cross that bridge when we arrive at it. For the time being, it would be in our best interest if we made use of the time we have. I would like to host the summit within the coming weeks, as to give the guild masters time to prepare and travel to Lemanin with their respective members. Lucia suggested it would be in my best interest to bring a guard along, so I have selected a few of our members to attend to us during the mission."

"Oh?" TJ asked as he raised his head. "Who's on the list Chief?"

"For the time being, I am currently planning on you, I and Kooh to attend the meeting. Though I suggest that it be guild masters and their most trustworthy members, you are the Abellan. Knowing that you accompany me would be irreplaceable proof of my standing, and would let all know that you are among us."

He smiled gently at those words. Despite how much he heard it, sometimes he forgot that he was indeed the Abellan. More often than not he was just like an average member of Yggdrasil, and it did not bother him. The time he got to spend with Peorth was irreplaceable though, and it made him thankful that he was indeed who he was. With that in mind, he could help the Cerebians by becoming stronger and doing what they could not. "Sounds good to me!"

"As for our guard, I have considered taking Axle, Alicia, Ken and Thee. The former is the only Tronz in Yggdrasil currently. I am well aware of his strength and I believe he would make for a great leader to the others. Alicia, Ken and Thee are differing ranks, but all are currently within the city of Yong Gyoung's territory, and I believe a formal outing with a leader would serve them well in latter adventures. Some familiarity with the Havens would also be a prominent experience."

TJ nodded excitedly. "Agreed! This'll be my first time actually going to a Haven so I'm really looking forward to it! What's Lemanin like?"

She closed her eyes as she recalled the place. "It is a beautiful town in the heart of Yong Gyoung's mountains. It is quite a distance to reach, and is so high some believe that it is hidden amidst the clouds. It is a lovely sight to behold and to see the world from above. Alas, many of the houses and temples are located on parts of the mountain so they can be quite difficult to reach at times, but it serves as an excellent place to live in for those who seek training."

TJ imagined it as Peorth described it and let out a dreamy sigh. "Sounds fantastic! I can't wait to go…"

The guild master chuckled gently and it snapped him out of his reverie. "There is no rush. One must savour the time they have, because it is known to never stop flowing." He nodded with a hint of embarrassment. "Now then, for the time being we should consider how we will proceed. There is still time before the summit, so it may be in our best interest if we took this time to train."

He raised his eyebrows. "What do you have in mind?"

"Firstly, you are still as of yet to have mastered Ardoss' song. This is no fault of your own, mind. Since our return from the Gourmet's Valley you have had little time to rest, let alone practice. That aside…perhaps it would be in your best interest if we sparred. I have seen your abilities, but I have not seen you fight through Velvet. Your unfamiliarity with close range combat could be a great detriment in battle. Knowing and understanding the uses of a Temple Knight's abilities may prove to be helpful to you later on also."

"That's true. I can't think of another way that I've learned other than through hands-on training." He laughed gently. "But I'm not that experienced so…go easy on me."

She smiled gently as her cheeks flushed. "Yes…I shall."

TJ went out back and met Peorth as she performed some light stretches.

"Chief? How's this?" He asked her. He now wore a pair of black sweat pants and sneakers-some extra clothes that were prepared ahead of time along with everything else in his house. She told him that he need not change his top since it could serve the purpose of exercise, but she recommended some clothes for running in.

"That shall do nicely. It is best one wear comfortable clothing when exercising to prevent chafing. It also allows them to move freely and to the best of their abilities.

"Alas, there are some exercises that I cannot do alone, so I shall be counting on you TJ." The guild master said as she turned her torso.

His pupils dilated. "H-huh? Seriously?"

The guild master nodded without hesitation. "Yes. Typically Kooh and I would perform together, but as it stands she is currently unable to do so. I am in your care."

"Y-yeah…alright. No problem." He said nervously as he looked at his shoes.

It was not long before he was by Peorth's side and doing the exercises according to her instructions. She counted along with each gesture and kept him in tune.

It had been a while since he stretched, and he realized that his body was much more limber than he initially thought it was. After getting those kinks out, he felt pretty good.

"TJ, from this point on I will be counting on you. Shall we do the first exercise?" Peorth asked as she turned to him.

"R-ready," He said. He only stole short glimpses at her, but it was hard not to stare when she was not dressed up like she usually would be. He had not realized it before, but her body was well-toned. Considering that she did stretches and other exercises every morning, there was little surprise that was the case, but he never really saw it for himself. Or at the very least, did not pay her enough mind during their reunion in the Desert.

"The first will require us to link our arms like so." She placed her back to his and linked her arms. "Then one of us will move like so." She lifted him from the ground as she leaned forward and his back cracked. He let out a quiet whimper before she let him down and he fell to the ground with one hand to his back. "Perhaps this will require some more time."

He got up with a tear in his eye. "I'm okay! Let's keep going!"

The guild master's lips curled into a small smile. "Your determination is admirable, TJ."

Peorth did it for him a couple more times, and despite the initial reaction it seemed to get better as she went along. "Shall we reverse?" She asked and he nodded. It was time for him to return the favour.

He lifted her onto his back, and at that moment realized that though his physical strength was not great, he was able to move her with some ease. Perhaps carrying the metal guitar around as a weapon for such a long period had helped his physical strength improve?

"You may continue at your leisure," Peorth said in her usual tone.

"Will do!" He said excitedly as he continued on. After eight reps he felt his arms quiver, but he wanted to at least match the guild master with ten, so he went for a ninth. It was then that his legs too, quivered, and he collapsed.

Peorth got off of him and turned over as she asked, "TJ, are you alright?"

"I-I'm good! No problem!" He turned over and gasped. "Y-you surprised me Chief!"

"Forgive me." She arose and offered him a hand.

As he took it he smiled guiltily. It seemed of all of his muscles, his heart was getting the greatest workout today. Even so, he felt happy. Time spent with Peorth was time well spent.

"Let us continue on to the next exercise TJ." She said as she dusted him off.

"Right. What's next on the list?"

"I shall show you. Please have a seat." He nodded and did as requested. "You may stretch out your legs."

She placed both her hands to his back. Was she going to hug him? He had not prepared his heart for this! As he panicked she gently pushed on his back and he leaned forward. An odd feeling jolted through his body and was quickly followed by a wave of pain. Following it he burst out into laughter, though unsure why. She steadily pushed him further and his laughing increased substantially.

"I think…you touched my funny bone Chief." He said as she eased up and he caught his breath.

She laughed gently. "That is not what or where a funny bone is, TJ. But it seems you have a funny bone in your body."

He smiled at her words and a chuckle escaped his lips. It was hard to say whether she was making a joke, but hearing her laugh made him happy nonetheless. She continued the exercise and he started laughing again, for all the wrong reasons.

"One more TJ." She said as he helped her to her feet. "You are familiar with push-ups, yes?" He nodded. "Good. For this, we will face each other as we do them, and with every rep, tap each other on the left shoulder with our right hand. Are you prepared?"

"Bring it on!" He clenched his fists with a burning passion in his eyes.

Both lowered themselves to the ground and began. His eyes wandered from his hands to the guild master before him every time they tapped each other on the shoulder. Every tap made his embarrassment increase substantially. Somewhere along the way he lost count and fell face first into the grass in a vain attempt to hide his embarrassment.

"You have done very well for your first time TJ." She gently stroked his hair as she said those words and he felt his embarrassment increase once more.

"T-thanks Chief," He muttered into the ground.

TJ jogged in the guild master's wake through the streets of Belos as the sun peered over the horizon. There were a few adventurers on the street, and the shopkeeper of the fancy shop sweeping in front of her stall, but other than that the streets were deserted.

As he went along with her he reminisced about his time with Axle, and felt good that he had certainly improved a lot since then. He was no match for the guild master, but he was happy to be able to tag along.

"I cannot help but suspect that there will be many adventurers arriving in Belos in the coming days." Peorth began as she continued to jog. Despite doing both at the same time, it seemed to faze her little. "Those who wish to escape the dangers of the terrorism on Elias will likely seek refuge here since it is far from the major cities, and often considered the safest of all places on Jienda. In that regard, it may not be just adventurers, but civilians also.

"The thrill-seeking adventurers or sympathizers of the cause will likely go to Elias to find out what has occurred for themselves, and that which can be done to help. There is little room for doubt that many and more will be seeking to have Choen Palm brought to justice. There will be a myriad of bounties placed on her, which will raise the chances of bounty hunters and mercenaries seeking her. I fear for their safety, but if it is not under the palace or Cerebians' influence, it is beyond me."

"So you think people are gonna start pursuing Choen Palm?" TJ asked as he looked to the guild master's back.

"Yes. It is not the first time, and it will not be the last. Ever since Choen Palm had taken over the Kimara Research Laboratory, many adventurers entered, and few returned to tell. It was for that reason Mayor Anastasia had blocked entrance to it for a time.

"To think that Choen Palm had left it to attack you in Elfa is mind boggling and yet…perhaps her intentions are not misplaced. I am positive that she has a tome that could rival Memorius Sanctum, and through that she was guided to strike down your party then and there."

The two turned as they passed by the Traveller's Bar and ran up hill towards some of the other houses scattered across the valley. TJ stole a glance back at the bar and reminded himself that it would be a good idea to visit it and it's habitants since he was in Belos. He had not seen Weldin or the girls since he began his adventure, and paying them a visit again would be nice.

"Nevertheless, I believe it will be a time before Choen Palm makes another appearance as she had now. Following Kimara, she had not been seen until her arrival in Elias. I believe a part of the cause was the operation she underwent, but the fact remains she is still human, with Agasuric characteristics. Thus, unlike you she cannot heal rapidly and will require time to recover from the wounds she has taken in our battle. Those you had inflicted on her had only recovered somewhat, while many scars remain."

"That's true…I could still see some of them. The scars from burns and such…but that tooth we knocked out had been replaced with a fang. It looks like there are still some things that she can recover, but like you said, it's not about killing her. Our target is to reclaim the Heart of Yggdrasil." TJ said between his breaths. He was starting to slow down but he would do his best to keep up with Peorth's pace. He wanted to be strong for her, and to be seen as such by her. If he could do that much, sooner rather than later he could build the confidence he would need to protect her, as he promised he would. To himself, and Avaritia at least.

"That is correct. Alas, I do not tell you this to strike fear in your heart. A man who knows fear is one that should be respected, but a man who can overcome it even more so. To be afraid, you need not feel that you are any less for it. To know it means you will proceed with caution, and at such a time we need it more now than ever.

"In that regard, I do not wish for you to concern yourself too heavily over Choen Palm. The danger has passed, and so we must set our sights on that which we can accomplish in that time. If we are able to recover the second piece of the Heart of Yggdrasil before we engage Choen Palm, I feel certain that victory will be within reach."

As they approached another tall hill the sun peeked over the horizon and the guild master turned to him with a bright smile on her face. "You need not fear TJ, because this time you are not alone. I will be by your side from the beginning to the end of the journey, and I shall guide you. As a guild master, as a proxy, and as your companion Peorth."

"Eh?!" He said with a startled look on his face and tripped shortly after. He got a face full of dirt and came to a sliding halt as he groaned.

"…Ah. Forgive me…I was jogging at my own pace. I will try harder to match yours also." The queen said as she helped him to his feet.

He laughed gently as he wiped the dust from his face and said, "You're too kind."

When the two got back he lay out sprawled on the grass as he gasped for air. What was it with his guild and their insane training? It was just like with Axle, but despite Peorth matching his pace she still created an insane length of a run she called a light jog. TJ found himself hard pressed to believe that she did something of that sort every morning. On the other hand, he began to understand how she got her nickname. If she tried, she could likely run circles around him.

The queen soon returned with a couple glasses of water and offered one to him. "It is best if you drink plenty of fluids to recover that which your body lost after exercising. Diligence is a valuable asset, but your health should always be your top priority." She said as she sat down next to him.

He sat up as he pursed his lips. The workout was frustrating, but he loved that caring side of hers, even though she treated everyone that way.

"There is still a fair amount I had in mind, but perhaps we could take things slowly hm?" She asked as she took a sip of her drink.

"Sorry you have to hold back for my sake," TJ muttered under his breath.

"You need not apologize. There is much and more you can do, and also that you can for me."

"R-really?" He looked at her with surprise.

The next thing he knew he was sitting in her lap. "This wasn't…what I expected." He said as he covered his face.

"I feel that we both have the same thought." The guild master answered as she blinked.

"Huh? You too?!"

She placed her fingers to her chin. "I suppose there was much room for misunderstanding in my words. I did request that you 'sit on my legs'. Perhaps it requires some clarification."

"I'd…I'd appreciate that." He said with a wry smile.

"If you turn your body clockwise…" She placed her hands to his waist and he let out a quiet gasp as he raised his arms. She turned his body so that he was indeed sitting on her legs and nodded with approval. "Perfect. You may begin at your leisure."

She had suggested that he practice Ardoss' song while she continue her exercises, but he did not understand why she would ask him to sit on her. "I-if you say so." He picked up his guitar beside the guild master's feet and held out his free hand.

"To me, Memorius Sanctum!" At those words the gilded tome appeared before him.

He looked upon the book and just like the first time, he had seen the words in Cerebian-also like the first time, he could not read a single one. He waited a couple of moments and before his very eyes the characters became music notes and gathered together to form a score.

He felt the presence of someone close by and nearly jumped as he caught a glimpse of the guild master sitting up next to him to see the book also.

"I see." She said as she examined it and closed her eyes. "I have committed it to memory. Let us begin with the first verse, shall we?" He steeled his resolve and nodded. "You may begin."

He quickly scanned over the notes and took a deep breath. He did not have Peorth's capacity for memorization, but he could follow the book. Predicting the notes to remain in tune would help, but it was his first time, so he would have to work hard.

He gently began strumming the guitar and found the song fairly difficult to get the hang of. It was one that seemed to be somewhat…erratic? It was hard for him to describe in words, but it seemed to often vary in terms of notes and sound. Velvet's was a slow and calm song throughout, but Ardoss' seemed to have a greater energy to it.

"Gah!" TJ shouted as Peorth rose again and he stopped playing.

"Do not mind me." She said as she laid back down.

"What exactly are you doing Chief?" He asked as he placed a hand to his chest and let out a gentle sigh.

"Sit-ups. Are you unfamiliar with them?"

"I'm unfamiliar with a lot of things," He laughed. "A lot a lot."

"You will be accustomed to the ways of our world in due time. Alas, there is much I would like to learn about yours, and you of course."

He knit his brows as he gently scratched his cheek. "Y-yeah…likewise." He found it incredible that she could say half of those things with a straight face, but that seemed like her specialty. That aside, he was not sure how much his heart could take.

"Let us continue from the beginning TJ," She suggested.

"Right!" He said as he clenched his fist and decided to put his all into his work instead. So long as he focused on what was before him, he could succeed. Despite how close they had become, he had overcome his fear of hurting her once to see their battle through, and once again the two would spar. This challenge was nothing in comparison to that!

He began playing again, but his face flushed somewhat as he caught a glimpse of Peorth continuing her sit-ups next to him.

He began to understand why Kooh had become so affectionate for her. It was hard to describe, but she just had this air about her…that seemed to attract. He closed his eyes gently. She smelled really good too…his guitar made a loud 'twang!' which caused him to jump. Peorth gave him a quizzical look and he covered his face in embarrassment.

"S-sorry…I'm gonna start over! Just…got distracted. T-that's all!"

Something in him…was changing. Rapidly at that. Was he becoming more Agasuric? Was it the blood bond that was causing him to act the way he did? Was Peorth…safe? His eyes shuttered as he strummed his guitar and they lost focus. The notes seemed to blur as he began to space out and play off-key.

"TJ…? Peorth asked as she sat up.

"Huh?" He asked as he stopped playing and turned to her.

She placed a hand to his forehead, then rested hers against his as she closed her eyes. "Your temperature is normal. Perhaps I have pushed you too hard. It has not been long since your battle with Choen Palm, so it may be for the best if you take more time to rest."

As she pulled away he shook his head rapidly. "N-no that's not it! I'm fine! Really! Let's keep going!"

"Are you sure? There is no shame in having moments of weakness."

He smiled gently, but there was a slight bitterness in it. She was so kind to him despite knowing what kind of person he was. "It's alright. I'm good to go."

She nodded solemnly. "Then let us start from the beginning. Ware the notes TJ, as the rapid change between high and low notes during the first set of verses give the song a steep learning curve."

"Got it." He took a deep breath as he began the song anew.

With the time he was given…he would treasure his time with Peorth, but he would also do everything in his power so that he could overcome his greatest weaknesses. His Agasuric roots, and the existence of his sibling Adonis.

Even with that thought in mind, he could not quell the conflict in his heart over the other figure he had seen with Adonis. Who was she, and why was she there with him? What was her relation to Adonis and more so, him?

A few days later the two stood a fair distance away from the houses of Belos, but still within the valley the city was located. It was a nice open field far from the eyes of the people, and early enough that most would not be awake.

Over those days TJ had seen a great influx of people coming to stay in the town for a time: shopkeepers with as many wares as they could carry, adventurers that were wounded or seeking refuge because they were not strong or brave enough to risk the threat, and others seeking information. The once peaceful village became a hub for commerce. It was reminiscent of Elfa during the arrival of Avaritia, but rather than it be due to the excitement of adventurers, it was because many were in a panic. Was the escape from Asgard similar to the event he saw playing out before his eyes?

Even so, many shopkeepers still saw it as an opportunity for business and brought their stalls along, selling goods from all over Jienda. There were fortune-tellers, information consultants, various clothing merchants and more.

The Abellan could not help but think of the world he saw through Amae's eyes. He sighed gently at the thought of her. She was God Ah's Left Hand but…why would only Asmodeus return? Where was she now, and would she too, return if God Ah's Right was to? Even so, he knew little about her, and even less so himself. His siblings hated him, and they hated her even more. According to them she had much and more to do with him, Luxuria, and all of the other Sins. It was she that had sealed them away along with her Saints, and she who had defeated Asmodeus along with God Ah. In this time period, why was it his duty to see that through? He looked to the stars in the sky and wondered if someday he would find the clues to solving that mystery.

Amae, Iris, Asmodeus and himself. All of them enigmas, and all of the truths about them shrouded in mystery. A small part of him hoped that the Sinners would appear just so he could get the truth out of them, and that which laid within Memorius Sanctum. At the same time, he feared facing off with them. He feared his own weakness, and the possibility that he would not be enough to best them, alike to Choen Palm. If he failed, there was no one else that could do what he could not.

"TJ, do not wear such an expression," Peorth said as she stretched her legs. "It is fine to have doubts. It is also fine to taste the bitter draught of defeat. It humbles those that may become haughty, and strengthens the wills of those who wish to aim for greater heights. You need not fear the future."

How did she know what he was thinking? Did his expression give him away?

He slapped his cheeks and rose to his feet. He said that he would be strong for his allies. Perhaps then he did not believe he had what it took to be the hero that the world needed, but he had come this far. It was far too late for him to harbour so much doubt in his heart. He had allies by his side that risked their lives on a daily basis. He would not let their efforts go to waste, nor the memories of those lost be forgotten.

He strummed his guitar as he sung the lyrics to Velvet's song. As he reached the final words, the Einherjar appeared before him and said her signature catch phrase.

"I'll take things from here TJ! Leave it to me!" Velvet said as she appeared and drew her weapons. She weighed the weapons in her hands and gave a solemn nod. "I'm ready Chief."

"Good." Peorth said as she finished her stretches and adjusted her glasses. "Then let us begin." Peorth drew her spear and pointed it at him before she took it in both hands. "Just as before, you need not fear for my well-being TJ. I wish for you to fight me with all of your strength!"

"Yeah…got it. I won't hold back then." She closed her eyes and he attempted to recall the stances Velvet knew. If he was going to battle, Just as he would as a Bard, it would be best if he prepared before the battle began. She raised her club skyward. "Bravery Shout!" A transparent sphere surrounded her as a golden shield appeared above her. She placed her weapon horizontally across her shield and took a defender's stance for a couple of moments-a blue aura surrounded her and pulsed outwards like afterimages of her body. "Chivalry!" There was one last stance that came to mind he could use on himself. She spun her club around before she raised it skyward and as she did the torso and head of a knight in shining golden armour appeared just behind her shoulder and followed the movement. She swung the club and the knight faded as a golden glow surrounded her body. "Warden's Emissary!"

"Good." Peorth said with a nod. "The first step to every battle is preparing yourself as best as possible. As a Bard, you should always do this for you and your allies. In that regard, it is your duty to keep in mind when these effects will wear off, and to restore them as necessary.

"But I digress. Today we are here to help you to master the inner workings of a Temple Knight and close-ranged combat. I shall instruct you as the battle goes on."

She armed her spear and hurled it. "Broken Wings!" Velvet looked startled but immediately blocked the weapon with her own. Peorth appeared and took hold of her spear as the two remained in a brief deadlock.

"I must warn you, that your enemies will not wait for you to prepare! If you must do so in the face of your enemy-" The guild master broke away from her and followed up with a flurry of stabs. "you must be willing to risk your allies lacking in defense to be put at risk!" She knocked the weapon from her hand and lunged at her, putting the weight of her spear in her body.

"Kh!" Velvet groaned as she narrowly blocked the attack with her shield. While Peorth followed the attack up with Windmill Velvet broke away from her and ran to reclaim her club.

"You must never turn your back to your enemies!" The queen's voice rang out as she soared at her with Swallowtail. She narrowly blocked the blow with her shield as she reclaimed the club, but the weapon only grazed it and cut a swath in her arm.

Despite being an Einherjar, Velvet still bled and TJ felt the pain as if it were his own body. It seemed that the wounds from previous battles did not carry over, which he was thankful for. Even so, if she were to die he would likely experience the suffering she would up until the Einherjar finally disappeared. The prospect was nightmarish, but he took some solace in knowing Peorth would not go to such an extent.

"You must use your shield to defend and parry, not your weapon! Ascending Lance!" She took a stab at her and he managed to block it. She rushed past her and as she did caught her in the back with a spinning slash, then followed it up with a second as she leapt through the air.

"F-fast…" Velvet muttered as she stumbled away. Unlike with his own body, Velvet was able to take such hits and still remaining standing. The pain neither lingered as long nor hurt as much, but he would have to be careful where he took the hits. The pain in her arm was wearing her down, and the bleeding was as of yet to stop.

She turned around and met Peorth's spear head on with her shield. She forced the guild master back and jumped on the spot as she brought her weapon across and instantly followed it with a rising strike that left a cloud of smoke and sparks in its wake. "Chaos Impact!" As the smoke cleared Peorth was not there, and he was hit in the ribs by the weapon.

"Choose your attacks wisely TJ! Your timing was good, but you are focusing on where I am at the time, not where I will be! The finest of warriors know when and where to strike! Burst Lancer!" She lunged at him with a single strike and followed it up with five more.. Velvet successfully blocked each strike, and following the attack Peorth leapt into the air.

She leapt back and as the queen came down with a Swallowtail she reeled her shield back and thrust it out at the guild master. It deflected the weapon and hit her dead on, causing her to fall back and place a hand to her head as she staggered back and forth. That was his chance!

The Temple Knight rushed forward with an ascending strike. "Serial Hits!" The weapon left a pink trail as it ascended and a blue trail as it came down, creating a yin and yang symbol in the wake of the attack. Peorth was knocked back but she still remained standing.

"Well done TJ. Your mastery over Special Power attack skills is not to be underestimated. But we have only begun." Peorth said as a slight grin spread across her face.

Was she…actually enjoying herself? It was only for a brief few moments, but Velvet looked on in disbelief at the usually stoic guild master showing a sign of excitement.

"Conqueror's Spirit!" Peorth shouted as she raised her spear skyward and an aura like flames crackled to life around her. She reeled her weapon back before she dashed towards Velvet. "Pounce!" She leapt a great distance from where she was and descended upon the Temple Knight with a falling blow.

Velvet blocked the blow and noticed at that moment that Peorth's strength had increased substantially since she had used the previous stance. As he lowered his shield he caught a glance of the Warlord as she spun her spear in her hand. It made him unsure of where and what stance she would follow the attack up with.

She lowered the weapon as her body turned with it and it rushed the ground. "Undertow!" Peorth shouted as she swept Velvet's feet from beneath her and knocked her to the floor. The princess raised her spear as she flipped through the air and descended upon her with a downward stab.

Velvet narrowly avoided the attack by rolling aside and she hurried to her feet as the princess ripped her weapon from the ground. There was not enough time for her to get in close and perform a stance but she could get her with a running shield bash. She leapt to her feet and immediately let her shield shoulder the weight of her body as she rushed forward.

For a split moment he saw a glint in Peorth's eye before she roared, "Sagacity!" Her body whirled and slammed the spear into Velvet's shoulder causing her to stop the charge and reel away. She vanished in that moment and hit her with another Ascending Lance causing her to stumble forward before she properly regained her balance.

Her body was throbbing in several places but she was not through yet. TJ reminded himself that he was not in his own body so he could not use many of the spells or stances he would at such a time.

"Valor!" Peorth shouted as she raised her spear skyward with both hands. A tiny glint, that rapidly grew in size as it ascended to the tip of her spear traced the shaft up to the point and sparkled but for a moment before vanishing. She swung her spear once and held out a hand as the pentacle and herald appeared beneath her. Velvet knew exactly what was going to follow. "Warlord Style Awakening Technique! Descent of the Zealot!"

She had to react, before she got pummeled by the Warlord. She raised a finger to the sky and cried out, "Perfect Shield!" A transparent sphere surrounded Velvet and light reflected from it every couple of seconds, reminding her that it still remained in effect.

Peorth immediately began her onslaught of attacks and every blow, though undefended and unpredictable, had inflicted no wounds upon the Temple Knight. Every strike only made the sound of metal clashing against metal.

When the strikes came to an end Peorth reappeared gripping her weapon with both hands as it remained upright. Just as with the other occasions, it was a spell that took a lot out of her, and would leave her open. Velvet could get in close with a strong attack, but she had to be wary-though Peorth said not to hold back, she had kept in mind that there were indeed Humans nearby, and they were in the vicinity of a town. In that regard, they had to keep the destruction to a minimum, both as to not draw attention or let their secret slip. That much, she could do without too much worry.

She charged forward before she came to a skidding halt with her weapon at the ready. She lunged forward and vanished-the only thing Peorth could see and hear were the trails of wind and the sound of it being cut by the mace as Velvet rapidly struck from a variety of angles. The guild master had successfully blocked some of the hits with her spear but could not defend all of them. Before she was able to retaliate Velvet appeared again with her shield on her back and an outstretched hand.

"Heavensfall!" She shouted as thunder like a cage pinned the guild master down and the mace Velvet carried was struck by lightning and took the form of a giant golden warhammer. She hauled it over her shoulder and slammed it down causing the cage to burst in a flash of thunder and force the guild master away. It may have been a bit much, but Heavensfall was an SP skill, so perhaps it would not be too out of the ordinary. That, and Peorth was a tough adventurer. That would not suffice to bring her down.

As the smoke cleared Velvet could see the princess' silhouette vaguely as she chuckled gently. "Very good TJ. Patience is a virtue both in and out of battle. When one is facing an opponent that is faster than they are, they need only seek an opening, and when found, capitalize on it.

"You have done well so far, but the battle is not over yet! Come! Let us continue!" Peorth took her spear up once more and issued the challenge.

"Right!" Velvet answered as she drew her club and prepared to engage the guild master.

"Fervour!" Peorth shouted as she clenched a fist before her and a crimson energy seemed to gather to it before spreading through her body.

"Blessing of the Goddess!" Velvet cried out as she lowered her weapons and closed her eyes. Green ripples emerged from beneath her and a gentle glow surrounded her, healing her wounds somewhat.

With renewed spirit Peorth rushed in again and the spear met the shield. One stab after the next the guild master kept the pressure on, steadily pressing Velvet as her eyes seemed to follow every movement, searching for an opening.

In the midst of one of her strikes Peorth suddenly stopped. "Undertow!" She shouted as she prepared another leg sweep.

"Chaos Impact," Velvet shouted in turn. The moment the weapon swept towards her feet she hopped on the spot and avoided the blow, then followed it up with one of her own. When Peorth reeled away she charged in and follow up with a second strike. "Hand of Grace!" She charged the guild master with the shield first and dragged her a few feet before lifting her off the ground with the weapon. When airborne she hit her with her mace and knocked her aside. To finish the combination she sheathed both weapons and clasped her hands together as she lowered her head and closed her eyes. A pillar of light emerged from where the guild master landed and blasted her away once more before it dissipated.

The Temple Knight turned her focus to where the guild master was and saw an opportunity to follow up the blow. She drew her weapons and charged in with a leaping strike.

"You are wide open!" Peorth shouted as her body twisted with spear in hand into a rising strike. "Ravenous Coil!" The mace was knocked out of Velvet's hand and the rapid series of blows forced her back as Peorth got to her feet.

Was that a stance she had come up with after the battle with Gula? It was similar to one of those that he had used, but now was not the time for speculation. She was in danger because she was disarmed, so she would have to act wisely.

"Heavenly Ascent!" Peorth roared as with a single sweep of her spear a powerful gust of wind forced Velvet from where she stood and into the air.

What's that incredible strength?! TJ thought as he gasped in shock. Even with all my armour she was still able to move me?

Peorth spun the spear over her head and the winds gathered around it, dragging the Temple Knight back in. Fearing the fact that she would be impaled, when the guild master awaited her descent she turned her body over and used the shield to protect herself.

"Good, but you must not forget that all attacks can be deceiving!" Peorth said as Velvet came ever closer to the spear. The guild master leapt off the ground and her body twisted as she brought the weapon around and slammed it into Velvet's ribs. The Temple Knight flew away and skidded across the grass before coming to a halt.

"She…changed the finishing blow…?" She muttered as she placed one hand to her ribs and the used the other to rise again.

"Swallowtail!" Peorth shouted as she leapt at Velvet with a diving strike once more.

The Temple Knight swept up her shield and prepared her next strike. "Guard Impact!" She forced it into the guild master and stunned her once more, but knew the effect would not last long. That aside, there were very few, if any attacks she could follow it up with without her mace, but there were some that could work now. "Heart of the Guardian!" The golden knight appeared once more and charged the guild master with its shield before it slashed her once and came to a halt. Reason being, to impede her if she tried to get past it for the duration of the stance.

Velvet took the opportunity to reclaim her weapon, keeping her eye on the guild master all the while. It was not long before Peorth had recovered from her weakened state and immediately pursued the Temple Knight relentlessly.

She could not use Guard Impact so soon after just using it, and to do so again would mean it would have even more of a diminished effect. Any other stance would leave her to open to Peorth's attacks and would falter if she tried to rely on them. What were her options?

If she used Sentry she could block any incoming attacks for a very brief period, and use that to reclaim her weapon, but escaping Peorth once that period was over would be no small feat. The queen was rapidly approaching and Velvet no longer had time to mull her options over. "Sentry!" She cried out as she sprinted towards her weapon.

"Pounce!" Peorth shouted as she leapt towards the Temple Knight like a cougar pursuing its prey.

Instinctively Velvet turned and blocked the blow and the two that followed it. Peorth was merciless when she was serious! She considered herself lucky that she could not use Valkyrie Stance or call her wings to pursue her.

The weapon was not far but the queen was still closing the gap as she attempted to strike her. Sentry had already worn off, so any further blocks would have to be completely reliant on TJ's own skill.

"Mayhem Talon!" Peorth roared as she leapt with a spinning strike. Velvet turned on the balls of her heels to narrowly parry the blow as it came in for her right flank. The moment Peorth touched the ground she lunged forward and released the spear, grabbing the end and thrusting it out in front of her. The Temple Knight tumbled aside and caught a glimpse of her weapon as the queen drifted by.

She rushed in and reclaimed it while Peorth began a new approach. The Einherjar took the initiative and challenged the strike head on.

"Power Slam!" She shouted as she charged forward with her mace in a rising strike. Peorth blocked the initial blow and at the apex of the rise she brought it down into a forceful strike. The guild master stepped aside and thrusted her spear out, while Velvet narrowly blocked.

She took a swing with her mace and the guild master reeled her weapon back. "Air Wall!" Peorth shouted as she spun her spear before her.

In that Velvet saw her opportunity. The end of the stance would leave Peorth wide open for an attack, so long as the Temple Knight remained out of her line of sight. She rushed behind Peorth and the moment she got there and prepared to stop Peorth turned to her.

"H-huh?!" Velvet gasped as the guild master reeled her spear back.

"Undertow!" Peorth roared as she swept the spear and tripped up the Temple Knight once more. "Shrewd Eye!" The wind surged around Peorth and almost seemed to create an outward and visible pressure. Her next movement happened so quickly it seemed as if she slid over to Velvet and pointed her spear down at her before making her declaration.

"The battle is over, TJ." She placed her spear upright and smiled gently. "You are a very valiant Temple Knight. I would expect no less from you. Alas, you seem to have forgotten that Air Wall and Wind Wall are two separate techniques, and not to be confused."

Velvet let out a gentle sigh but smiled as she slowly dissipated. "I'm no match for you still, Chief."

TJ had awoken in his own body and placed his guitar upright. "Ooh..my fingers are seriously sore from all that strumming." He complained as he put his guitar on his back.

Peorth approached and gave him an approving nod. "Given more time, I am positive that your body will adapt. As for your close quarters combat skills, you have shown incredible progress in a short period of time. I have little doubt you will have issues with the other Einherjar."

"It's thanks to your teachings Chief. Thanks for all your help." He smiled gently. He looked over her battered body and his smile waned slightly. "Though I'm sorry for hurting you. Do you want to stop and have me heal you up before we head back?"

She shook her head gently. "You need not apologize. It was at my behest that you do so, and you did all that I asked without complaint. Alas, though not physically wounded, you have played for the entire duration of our battle, so you may need some care also." She looked him in the eyes earnestly. "May I see your hands?"

He blinked. "It's not that bad. Since I play so much I don't get as many blisters as I would have!" He raised both hands for her to see. "See?"

She took both of his hands and clasped them in hers. "You had once taught me a magic spell to make wounds go away. Though it has been many years, I have not forgotten."

"A…magic spell? I did?" The Abellan looked puzzled.

"Yes…you had said your guardian would do it for every wound you had received." He tilted his head as his eyes swam. His guardian…? So Yuna had for him at some point?

The guild master placed her lips to his fingers and closed her eyes. She opened them half-way as she pulled away slightly and whispered, "Pain pain go away…come again another day." She let his hands go and he looked at them in disbelief before she put on her usual stoic expression. "The pain will subside shortly, I believe.

"Now then, shall we head back?" Her lips curled into a tiny smile. "Perhaps I will have you pamper me, just this once?"

"Y-yeah…let's go…" TJ said as his mind attempted to comprehend exactly what was happening, and what was going to happen from here on out.

The two had gotten back to the house and sat out back as TJ carefully bandaged the guild master. She had her eyes closed and a gentle smile as she allowed TJ to inspect where the wounds were and to bandage them up as he saw fit.

"A-are you sure this is okay Chief? I mean…I'm a guy you know." He said as he knit his eyebrows and unfurled the bandages.

"I do not see a problem with this. We may be of opposite genders, but as comrades we must at times look after each other. Alas, this is typically a task Kooh would fulfill, but as she is currently in no state to be up and about, I have entrusted it to you."

At those words the window swung open and Kooh descended.

"Gah!" TJ cried out as the bandage roll fell out of his hands.

"I'm here, princess!" Kooh shouted as she rose to her feet and her wings vanished.

"How do you feel?" Peorth asked with her usual look.

"I'm at 110%! I'm completely good to go! Gimme a task!" The Keruz clenched both fists.

"Excellent. I have a mission that I would like you to do." Peorth turned her head in the direction of Elias. "I would like you to investigate the state of Elias and also check up on Lucia and her sisters. If possible, assist wherever you can, and find out how King Hejong and Herne are faring. I would also like for you to spend some time in the Guild Room if it is available. Since the battle With Choen Palm, you have exhausted your mana and I think it best for you to restore it without delay. Of course, I do not wish you to overwork yourself, so please rest at home as much as necessary."

Kooh pursed her lips. "You're not coming home?"

She shook her head gently. "No, not this day. There is much and more that must be done. You must not forget that I am TJ's proxy, so it is my duty to guide him through each ritual. I must take the time to assist him in his practices, as you have mine.

"Alas, it is not the only duty I am committed to. There will be others that must be attended to in the near future, but I shall debrief you on them another time. Should danger be lurking in Elias, I wish for you to be prepared to counteract it in our stead. Should you have need of reinforcements, I will ask any available members to be with you anon."

Kooh nodded with a renewed resolve. It seemed that she still was not entirely fond of being dispatched again, but she did not seem like the type to go against Peorth's wishes, especially when it was likely a duty only she could fulfill. TJ felt somewhat guilty that he was keeping the guild master to himself, but he could not deny that he needed her help more than he knew. After the talk they had at Club Abio, Kooh's loneliness weighed on his conscience heavily, but he hoped that when things calmed down the two could spend some time together.

"You can leave it to me Princess!" Kooh said with a salute. "Promise me you won't do anything too dangerous, okay?"

"I can assure you, it will be sparring and musical practice. Though I will not be with you, you must remain diligent in your exercises and training also." Peorth said with a slow blink.

"No problem!"

TJ smiled gently. Even if they were separated they always worked hard thinking of each other. They had a strong bond.

"Also…" Peorth began and her cheeks flushed as her eyes shifted away. "When you have the time, would you bring me a change of clothes?"

TJ's jaw fell and Kooh laughed. "I'll come by again later Princess. Don't you worry about a thing!"

She nodded. "You have my gratitude."

"See you soon!" At those words Kooh drew Peorth's warp crystal and vanished.

Shortly afterwards TJ continued to apply the bandages as the guild master silently waited. "Chief…I think Kooh might be a little lonely without you." He said as he wrapped it around her left arm. Perhaps it was not his business, but he was a part of the scenario. For better or worse, he wanted to at least know her feelings on the matter and perhaps how she would address it.

"You may be right TJ, but we do what must be done." The guild master said as she opened her eyes somewhat. "Our situations are no different than before. We must be wary of our locations, and as such I have dispatched all of Yggdrasil across Jienda. Not Kooh, nor I, or even you can defend all cities at once. Unexpected threats will rise and threaten the peace of Humanity, so we must be willing to separate from each other at times to protect all that we can." She closed her eyes once more.

"It is a lonely duty at times yes…but we must all make sacrifices for the greater good.

"For me to send her off so suddenly was…perhaps in essence my own selfishness." She looked over her shoulder to him. "If you are to scold me for it, I ask that you be firm, yet kind."

His heart ached at the sight, but at the same time his face felt hot and he felt unsure of exactly what he felt within his chest. "I…won't scold you, but…saying something unfair like that…" He placed his hands to her back and gently rested his cheek against it. The warmth from her body seemed to relieve the feeling somewhat. "Should be punished…"

The guild master smiled, though from behind he could not see it. "Then I shall accept the punishment without complaint."

It had been a few days since the two had taken up their training sessions. TJ felt sore all over and had devised a multitude of strategies to best his guild master but had failed in every way possible. She was up four victories to his none, and as he chewed his breakfast that morning he pondered why he lost and how he could defeat her next time.

Leaving the thought aside, the moment during their first battle he had seen her grin. Though she did nothing of the sort in the following battles, she seemed genuinely happier the past few days. It was hard to describe her happiness, but she just seemed generally more upbeat. That moment still remained in his mind, and so he ventured to ask her about it.

"Chief…do you..like battles?" He asked before he shut his eyes tight. He could have worded that much better.

"Battles you ask?" She asked with a puzzled expression.

He lowered his head as his eyes began to swim. "W-well the other day you seemed to really be having a good time so…I was just curious."

She blinked solemnly for a moment before she smiled gently. "Yes…it seems there is some truth to that statement, no?" She placed her fork down and dabbed at her lips with a napkin. "Would you like me to tell you the reason why?"

He raised his head with a surprised look. "W-will you?" He beamed. "Please do!"

She nodded gently. "When I was but a girl, and had begun my training as a Warrior I once had a mentor. He had taught me much and more about becoming that class. Though, his main task was teaching me the workings of the class, skills and such, in essence, the fundamentals.

"I had come to attain a love for sparring not due to his actions, but those of my Keruz."

"You mean…?"

She nodded once more as her lips curled into a small smile. "Yes. After I had grasped the basics of being a Warrior, Father had arranged for me to acquire sparring partners. He wished for them to be around my age range-companions that I could grow and bond with, both in strength and spirit. It was he that had told me friends for life make the best Keruz.

"Nevertheless, I digress. Warlord Turk and Templar Sosa had brought their students and suggested some of them to my father-those that they thought would be worthy of sparring with me. Father had suggested that I should choose from their pupils, as they could be my future comrades.

"Warlord Turk had advised against one of his students due to his being a troublemaker, and Sosa, though his daughter was amidst the other Knights, was reluctant to suggest her also.

"There was a common ground between these two students. Could you guess what that was?"

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. If he recalled correctly, he and Straw Hat had run into Warlord Turk, and one of the things the young Warrior was known for was skipping class. Also digging holes in people's gardens, it seemed. If he was to put it into a more general term, would that not make them delinquents? "Both of them were trouble makers?"

"That is very close, but not quite the answer." Peorth said with a quiet giggle. "The answer is, that they were the ones who had helped you escape."

His eyes became dilated. "Seriously?!"

She nodded once more as her cheeks flushed a slight pink. "Yes. I had heard of the two prior to them becoming my sparring partners, but upon meeting them then and there, I had my heart set on them becoming my Keruz. From then on Straw Hat and Velvet would train with me on days off, and…" She closed her eyes slowly, thoughtfully. "I suppose you could say the rest is history?"

TJ was still in awe that he had a part to play in that scenario. But even more so, he was happy that he had helped the guild master find life-long, trustworthy companions. He beamed. "When you have the time I hope you'll tell me more about your past Chief."

She opened her eyes and there was a slight wistful gaze. "Yes, I shall. In time, I am positive that you will recall portions of it also TJ. But there is no rush."

He nodded. "Definitely."

"But let us leave that matter for the time being, shall we? There is much and more that we need to discuss."

He cocked an eyebrow. "What's on the menu today?"

"In truth, today I would like you to rest." He blinked and she paused to mull the statement over. "Perhaps those are not the words I wish to convey. You may continue your training if you wish, but I will not be able to accompany you. Now that the dates and location have been decided, I need to prepare official invitations for the Cerebian summit. It may take the greater half of the day, so I will be very busy."

He knit his eyebrows slightly. It sucked that she would not be able to accompany him, but if he could do something for her, he could at least return the favour. "Is there anything I can do to help you Chief?"

She gave him an affable smile. "I appreciate your concern TJ, but you may leave such menial tasks to me. I wish for you to have some time to yourself, as you have been working very hard.

"Though some of the adventurers have left Belos, there is still much to see. Why not take some time to visit the stalls located around the town?"

He gave the suggestion some thought. "I guess I could give it a look, but I'll probably just wind up practicing Ardoss' song. Do you want me to bring you back anything?"

She shook her head. "Your consideration is more than enough of a treat for me, TJ. You have my gratitude."

He knit his brows as he gazed at her solemnly. She was still an enigma.

Later that day TJ lay sprawled out on the couch with his guitar in his lap and Memorius Sanctum levitating before him as he gently strummed the guitar. With Peorth's conducting he had gotten through most of the song but he still had only reached the half-way point. The second half of the song was a bit less erratic and easier to follow along, but was still quite difficult in comparison to Velvet's. All things considered, his progress was good, but he had not even begun with the vocal portion of the song. He sighed audibly at the thought.

To his surprise the door opened and was followed with a, "Helloooooo!" The greeting courtesy of Kooh as she stepped inside.

"Kooh?" TJ asked as he sat up with a look of surprise.

"Hey Lil' Lamb! How're you doing?" She looked to him and beamed. Regardless of the time or place she was happy-go-lucky and it made him feel a bit happier too.

"I'm really good. Not sure what to do with myself though, so I'm just trying to keep busy," He answered conversationally.

"That so? Princess is busy today huh?" He nodded sullenly and she grinned. "Well if you're bored, I can come and bug ya' if Princess doesn't have anything she needs me to do."

"I'd appreciate it." He said with a smile. "Are you going to report?"

"Yep. Gotta keep our guild master up to date and clothed!" As she made her way up the stairs he saw the bag Kooh carried on her back, likely with clothes for Peorth.

"Okay, I'll be here."

As she made her way upstairs he laid back down and strummed his guitar a couple times in thought. It seemed that Kooh too, was doing a lot better after the battle against Choen Palm. She was back to her usual self, and she even took the time to come and visit Peorth. Perhaps that way, neither of the two would be particularly lonely without each other. He smiled slightly at the thought.

His thoughts reversed somewhat and he recalled the battle. He had not seen Freya since then. Was she like an Einherjar? Did she heal her wounds upon switching back with Kooh, like Su or Velvet could? He had no idea.

"Su, do you think Freya healed after the battle?" He asked.

His crystal lit up as Su answered, "How the fuck would I know? Do I look like one of those blue-haired retards?"

He chuckled dryly. It was not the response he expected, but perhaps one he should have. She knew a lot, but that perhaps was beyond her area of expertise.

"Putting that aside, why don't you come out? It's been a while since you last did. Aren't you bored?"

"Between being stuck in a house with you idiots and being tied up and spit-roasted like a pig over a fire, I'd take the latter any day. I can deal with the friggin' rock."

The rock? Oh…the Heart of Yggdrasil. He laughed gently. "Well I suppose I won't force you if you don't want to, but at least let me change your bandages once in a while okay? You probably can't fix a broken arm like a dislocated one huh?"

"Isn't that obvious?" She asked.

"Sorry."

"The hell're you apologizing for now?"

"I don't really know any spells that can heal broken bones. I can speed up the recovery of wounds and stuff but…I dunno if it works on wounds like that too." TJ muttered as he pursed his lips.

She sighed. "I know that. How long do you think I've been in this goddamn thing? I don't need you healing me for my arm to get fixed. That aside, that bitch Choen Palm fucked off to who knows where, and there aren't any Sinners fucking up this continent for once, so stop sulking would you? You're pissing me off."

He smiled slightly. She always knew just what to say. "Yeah, thanks Su."

"Yeah whatever. More importantly, since that dumbass is busy writing tea party invitations and shit, why don't you try and be more productive? It's not everyday that you're not fighting for dear life, so go accomplish something worthwhile."

Accomplish something worthwhile…he thought that using the time to take steps forward on Ardoss' song were worthwhile, but perhaps Su was on to something. For now, there would not be any battles he needed to fight. What could he do, as the Abellan? What was necessary for him to do?

He thought back to Amata's words, her actions and her drive. She had often mentioned that the God's Governors were necessary for him to take the next step in awakening. All things considered, he knew a bit about most of them, but Freya was one that had escaped him.

He placed his fingers to his lips and his face flushed. She had kissed him again the last time they had met too. What exactly brought that about anyway? It was not like they were lovers…or were they? He sat up as his eyes began to swim and beads of sweat ran down the back of his neck. Was it possible they were lovers before he had lost his memories? He dreaded the thought-how could he explain that to her now?

He shook off the thought and crossed his arms. Running away from her would not answer his questions. She, unlike him, seemed to have her memories intact-memories of him, of the time he had lost and of the truths of matters he lacked answers to. Perhaps if Kooh was willing and had some free time he could ask her for some time with Freya.

He still did not quite understand what the God's Governors had to do with him and awakening, but according to Amata they needed to temper themselves and visit their ancestor's temples. She did ask him to come along, so perhaps he would have to go with Kooh or Freya and Su also to theirs. For the time being though, he wanted to face forward and find out what it was that Freya knew.

On the other hand, he also promised her that he would show her around. His duty was the most important thing he was tasked with, but was that related to his memories or was that his own desire talking? On the other hand, if he called Freya out just to question her, that would be rather mean, would it not? He placed his fingers to his temples and groaned. He did not know her like his other comrades, but he wanted to treat her fairly at the very least. How was he to go about this?

"You seem to be thinking awfully hard Little Lamb. What's got you making such a face?" Kooh asked as she walked down the stairs.

His lips and his eyes were tightly clenched at this point and as the God's Governor approached his expression relaxed substantially. "Kooh…" He said quietly.

"Mm? What's up?"

"W-well…I…" How would he ask her this?

She lifted his legs, much to his surprise and sat down before resting them over her lap. "Relax TJ! Unless you're gonna confess your love to me there's no need to be so tense! Lemme' know what's on your mind!"

He smiled bashfully and nodded. He was thankful that she was so easy to talk to. "I've been thinking a lot about the things Freya said and I…wanted to talk to her." He waved a hand while the other held his guitar-his face lit up with embarrassment. "It's not like I'm not worried about you though! I mean-"

The God's Governor laughed. "No need to butter me up! I'd bet you'd be thinking hard about Freya's actions huh? She must've really thrown you for a loop whenever she came out." He nodded solemnly with a flushed face. He did not even need to explain anything to her-she knew and it hardly fazed her. "You still have a promise to keep to her too, don't you? If you want me to swap places with her, then that's fine." She smiled affably. "Knowing that you're thinking of her too is more than enough reason for me." She ruffled his hair at those words.

"Thanks for being so understanding Kooh."

"Hehe! That's just one of my good points!" She said as she stuck her tongue out. "But I don't think either of us will be able to convince Princess to summon Garfitua's Hourglass. Do you think you can do it?"

He furrowed his brows. "I've never tried before." She knit her brows and the expression almost seemed to urge him to give it a try. "Well…I suppose it's worth a shot." He had never used Memorius Sanctum for the relics held within, so it would certainly be a learning experience. He could not help but wonder if he even had that power.

He reached out to the book keeping the relic he sought out in mind. He turned the page, and then another, and then with a flick of the wrist he flipped through the book rapidly, the pages coming to a rest on one that featured the hourglass. This is it! He thought as he looked upon it. But how would he summon it?

"I'm willing to bet getting items out of the book is like using relic recovery." The God's Governor suggested with a raised finger.

TJ placed a fist into his palm with a look of realization. "You might just be on to something Kooh!" He reached out to it and recalled how Peorth had used Relic Recovery in the past. He only had a vague idea, but after a few brief moments of nothing, a blue glow emanated from his hand and the book matched it with a bright glow of it's own. At that moment Garfitua's Hourglass was released from the book and TJ was able to claim it. "I…I did it!"

Kooh clapped for him and he rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm ready when you are." He handed her the hourglass and she channeled her mana into it. "I'm all yours."

"D-don't say it like that…it's embarrassing." He muttered as he received it this time around. He channeled his mana into it once again and the grains of sand appeared at the bottom.

Kooh smiled. "I'll see you later. Have fun with Freya, Little Lamb!" Kooh waved with both hands and he nodded bashfully.

"Here goes…" He took the hourglass and flipped it over, causing it to shine brightly and for Kooh to follow suit.

Her body began to levitate from where she sat and his legs fell through her as she was engulfed in light. When it had faded away Freya descended back down and slowly opened her eyes as she surveyed the scene. Her head swiveled until it locked on to TJ and then her irises alone shifted around her sclera as if she was searching for something. When she seemed satisfied she glomped him and nuzzled his cheek.

"Little Lamb! My Little Lamb!" She shouted happily.

"F-Freya! H-hold on…a minute…I can't…" He tried to pull her arms from around his neck. He had a better understanding of how Peorth had felt recently, experiencing such an event now. He finally broke her grip and gasped for air. "Phew…okay, let's be civil here. You can do that…later? Probably. First, let's talk things out, okay?"

She sat back up properly and nodded. "I understand."

The Abellan sat up too and scratched his cheek. When she got serious she both looked, and sounded like Peorth. It set his heart aflutter but confused him all the while. He shook his head rapidly and tried to solidify his resolve. He had a duty to accomplish-multiple duties in fact, but for the time being, he had to take things one step at a time. He needed to focus on making sure Freya was enjoying herself first and foremost, and then, if there was time later he could ask her questions. After all she had been through, both for him and the others, it was the least he could do.

He picked up the tiny hourglass and stuck it in his pocket before he let out a gentle sigh.

"W-well…do you remember how I promised you that I'd show you around?"

She beamed. "Yes, I have been eagerly looking forward to our date!"

He had lost count of how many times he needed to remind himself that was in fact, not Peorth. "Since there's nothing going on right now and stuff I figured it'd be a good time to do good on that…so…do you wanna go look around the town? I mean it's not Elias, but we can still go and shop and eat and whatnot. B-but I should warn you I've never been on a date before!" He added quickly and defensively with a nervous gaze.

"Neither have I. Nevertheless, if it is with you where we go does not matter to me. I would just like to spend this time by your side."

His face felt hot, his heart was racing and he was going to have to somehow manage through the day with her. He was definitely going to have a hard time-but he needed to understand her one way or another. He would not run away from this challenge.

"Alright, let's head out then."

He paused as his eyes trailed the contours of her body to her bare feet.

"You're...gonna need some shoes though."

Naomi found herself in the bustling streets of Belos with an exasperated look on her face. It was all fine and dandy for Kooh to take the time to chew the fat with Queenie for a little while, but Monica was getting impatient and noisy. They needed those invitations to make their deliveries and soon.

As she waded through the crowds of people she muttered about how the small town was more packed than a can of sardines. She finally broke free of them and made her way up the path towards the Abellan's home.

All things considered, things were finally starting to normalize back in Elias, so she found herself rather impressed that people were still hanging out in the town, but it would likely only be for a short while longer.

At that moment she had sworn that she had glimpsed something unusual-she saw the unmistakable pink hair of the Abellan, and what seemed to be Queenie beside him. Was it possible that the two were on a date? But…now? Hel would freeze over before the queen shirked her duties to run off on an afternoon romp. She sent her gaze up the hill towards the house and saw a faint light coming from within one of the rooms.

Were her eyes deceiving her? It was possible that what she saw was Kooh, but she decided it would be better to do what she came to do before she chased after look-alikes.

Naomi stepped into the house as she eyed the surroundings.

"Anyone here?" She asked and received no answer in response.

There was no particular light on the lower floors, but it was only noon, so it was not needed. She took off her shoes and made her way up the stairs. There indeed was a light on in the Abellan's bedroom. She carefully approached and opened the slightly ajar door to find Peorth sitting at the desk with a pile of envelopes on her right and invitations to her left. She turned to the Vampanelar solemnly and blinked.

"Ah…Naomi. This is certainly a surprise," She began. "Have you come to retrieve the letters? Forgive me, as they are not entirely complete, but should be briefly."

She stood up and gave an apologetic bow. "But had you not sent Kooh with that intention?"

"We did." Naomi said as she crossed her arms. "But it shouldn't have taken her that long. Said she'd report back to us whether or not you were finished and how long until you were done." She knit her eyebrows.

"But leaving that aside, there's something else that's bugging me."

The queen tilted her head with a puzzled expression. "Being…?"

"I could've sworn I saw you and TJ checking out the stalls all of five minutes ago. I thought that, but you're here in the flesh. Unless I'm losing my freakin' mind."

The queen crossed her arms. "No, I do not think that is the case. I am indeed here. The only other potential explanation being that I am a figment of your imagination. But regardless of whether I was or was not, I would likely give you the same response."

Naomi placed a hand to one side of her face. "Could you at least…laugh it off or something? When you say it like that I'd believe it."

This got a chuckle out of the stoic guild master. "My teacher had said I could make an excellent method actor if I was to put my mind to it.

"But that is neither hither nor thither. It is possible that who you had seen was Kooh. She was here recently, as was TJ. It is not entirely unlikely that she is helping him find his way around."

Naomi rubbed the back of her neck. "I'd bet that it was her too, but this time I'm not so sure about that. Of all the times I'd seen her, there hadn't been one where she didn't have her hair in twin-tails. Seriously."

Peorth raised an eyebrow. "You say that she let her hair down?"

The Vampanelar nodded. "Yeah, I'm as surprised as you are. Even more so when I saw the two arm-in-arm. That's why I thought it was…whoa." Much to her surprise, Peorth looked visibly distressed. It was almost as if she was somewhere between confused and downright frustrated. "Queenie…what's wrong?"

She closed her eyes and the expression immediately subsided. When she opened them she looked to Naomi with a newfound boldness. "Naomi, I have an important mission I would like to assign to you."

She placed her hands in her pockets and shrugged while her lips curled into a grin. "Suppose I could help you out there. What do you need me to do Queenie?"

It seemed that Naomi's intelligence was on the mark. Peorth could see TJ and Freya arm-in-arm as they stopped at one of the stalls and looked at accessories.

Naomi, who wore a straw hat on her head and shades with a tan trench coat sighed audibly. "You know Queenie, if you're gonna spy on that guy you like, you could just call it that." She muttered as she tipped the shades and looked at Peorth over them.

"I know not what you mean." The queen answered while she kept her eyes trained on the duo.

She wore a surgical mask and a sun hat with a black ribbon tied around it.

Naomi let out a quiet chuckle. "I suppose I can see why Sis asked us to look after you. You might not show it much, but you're a girl too after all, huh?"

The odd phrase drew her attention and she looked at the Vampanelar leaning over her. "How do you mean? Do I not appear to be the gender that I am?"

She stifled a laugh and shook her head. "No, it's obvious you're a girl through and through, but that's not what I meant. I mean you're Queenie and all but you've got a normal girl's worries. You hardly, if ever showed interest in things outside of your tasks. Had us worried you'd get old and grey before you went on a date."

"I have gone on a date before." She added defensively as she furrowed her brows slightly.

"Did you? With him? You're gonna have to tell me the details later. It'll give me some leverage over Sis." Naomi grinned devilishly at those words.

"Umm…if you two aren't going to buy anything, could you please stop hiding behind my stall?" A young girl wearing a pink skirt and white blouse asked.

She had deep violet hair and matching eyes, and seemed much too young to be running a stall, but Peorth would not question the matter. If she recalled correctly, the girl's name was Mirin and was the owner of the Belos Fancy Shop. It dealt in clothes and accessories specific to the city.

"You're scaring the other customers away."

Peorth looked to Mirin, to TJ and Freya who moved on and to Naomi. "Let us take this chance to away. They are on the move once more." She said as she made her way into the crowd from stall to stall.

"I'm coming I'm coming…" Naomi said with a dry chuckle as she followed along.

The duo briefly stopped at a stall and each got an ice cream cone-TJ vanilla and Freya strawberry. He licked his and smiled with delight while she stared at him solemnly for a moment. She said something to which he shook a hand and his head with an embarrassed expression.

"I…cannot hear what they are saying," Peorth muttered sullenly.

"She asked if he wants a taste of hers." Naomi answered blankly, and the queen gave her a surprised glance. "Wh-what is it?"

The guild master found herself impressed that the Vampanelar could hear the two talking from their distance. Even more so that she could single out their conversation amidst the din of the crowd.

Perhaps it was in regard to her Agasuric nature. It was not unusual for Agasura to have much more powerful senses than a Human or a Cerebian would. On the other hand, how attuned those senses were varied from one Agasura to the next. There was no doubt that Vampanelars had excellent sense of smell, but it seemed to be that their hearing was not to be underestimated either. She would take note of that.

"I cannot help but be amazed by your ability," Peorth said.

The Vampanelar's face flushed as she grinned slightly. "Ah it's nothin' really. Nothin' you need to praise me for."

The two turned their focus back to the pair at the stand. Freya leaned in to TJ and as he backed away she licked his ice cream. He seemed to scold her after as she licked her lips and wiped a bit of ice cream from her face.

Peorth was in utter shock. There was much and more she did not recall about her sibling, but to think that she was crafty to such an extent! She was, without a doubt a force that the queen could not take lightly by any stretch of the imagination.

Still…to think her greatest adversary was right under her nose. She would need to ware her surroundings.

"Hey, Queenie!" The sound of Naomi snapping her fingers brought her back to reality and she lifted her head to meet the girl's gaze. "We gotta keep moving or we're gonna lose 'em. Were you that surprised by something like that?"

"Surprised? Yes…" She muttered as she mulled it over. "But even more so…envious."

Naomi could not help but crack a small smile. "You know, I'm willing to bet if you told him that you'd be able to snag him for yourself. But…it ain't so easy to do that huh?"

She stepped out from before her and gestured for her to follow along. "Well, I've got your back. There ain't nothing better out there to help you with your love life then a good girlfriend. Or at least, that's what I hear."

"You have my gratitude." Peorth said as she pursued her companion.

The pair stopped at a stall that sold various accessories and other baubles. They seemed to be talking but Peorth still could not make their voices out amidst the crowd.

She pursed her lips. It was the first time she had performed such an action, though Kooh had done it in her stead for years. If she recalled correctly, the God's Governor had called it a 'stake out'. It was certainly difficult, but there was a very compelling aspect to it. If she was to be generous, it was almost…thrilling.

Her personal excitement aside, she certainly was thankful that for this stake out, her precious companion's life was not in any immediate danger. Though he was with her ultimate rival in love and on something akin to a date, he seemed to keep his wits about him. That, and he was paired with God's Governor of Water. If anything was to happen to him, be it thugs or other hooligans, both Freya and Kooh had the potential to protect him.

The only problem being, Freya was more than likely to go above and beyond the call of duty to thwart any enemies who threaten the Abellan. Peorth could not help but think that was partially her fault, but she felt some certainty that her feelings were not that extraordinary at the time.

"You want me to convey what they're saying to you Queenie?" Naomi asked as she focused with her eyes on the two.

"It would be appreciated," Peorth answered.

"Let's see…" Naomi began.

"Do you think this ring could actually increase my resistance to fire?" TJ asked as he picked up the ring and held it to the sun.

"Perhaps…but such a small trinket is not befitting of you. Come, let me attach this brooch to your coat. I think that you would look very charming with it." Freya said as she picked up a gold brooch with a small sapphire embedded in the center.

"W-wait hold on, I'm not looking for something to make me look good! And besides, that thing's huge!" TJ cried as he stepped back.

"T-that aside…I don't wanna pin that thing to my chest or people will stare. The accessories around my neck are already pretty gaudy, don't you think?"

Freya tilted her head quizzically. "I do not think so. I think they accentuate how handsome you are."

He covered his face with both hands. "C-come on…"

"Where did you acquire them, if you do not mind my asking?"

"These?" He placed a hand to the two items. "The locket was given to me by Iris, and the necklace the Chief had retrieved from Pandora. It's really helpful."

Freya cocked an eyebrow. "Iris and Pandora…are they perchance…girls?"

"Well, yeah. Why do you ask?" The God's Governor glared at him as if she was ready to slay someone. "You're freaking me out Freya…"

She threw herself on him and he stumbled here and there as she tried to take the accessories. "You must…dispose…of this rubbish Little Lamb!" She snarled as she tried to break both.

"F-Freya you're…choking…me…" TJ uttered as he held on to them and tried to prevent her from taking them off.

Peorth looked on in shock. It seemed that indeed, the greatest threat was right under her nose. Both to her love life and TJ's safety. She thought of intervening, but according to Kooh one must never reveal themselves during a stake out. The only times that would be acceptable would be in emergencies. For her to do so now would result in the mission being a failure, but she still remained worried about his safety.

Alas, there would be missions where she could not accompany him. It had not been long before she issued her warning that she would not always be able to accompany him also. If she was to be seen tailing him, perhaps he would be upset with her? The possibility that he may feel that she did not trust him was something she would not rule out so easily. To that end, she would have to use her best judgement in order to go forward and believe that her sister would not suffocate him over accessories belonging to other girls.

At that moment, she felt a pang in her heart. It only happened very rarely, and those rare occasions whenever he was involved but…she was not unaware as to what it was. Envy…a sin that she had no need for. To be wrought with such thoughts would only serve as a breeding ground for further sin, and would corrupt her sooner rather than later. She clenched a fist to her chest and forced the feeling away. She would not let her heart be overcome with negative emotions.

Naomi continued to relay the conversation to the queen.

TJ picked up a headband with a flower on it and looked it over with a bit of nostalgia.

"I remember this. The Chief used to wear one of these way back when-I think around the time I crash landed on Toad Island," He thought aloud.

There was a devilish glint in Freya's eyes. "Another woman?" She asked.

"Yes, but it's your sister!" He shouted defensively.

Her expression immediately reverted to her usual smile and rosy cheeks. "Is that all? You gave me quite the scare, Little Lamb."

"I gave you a scare?" He muttered as he placed the headband down.

Peorth placed her hands to her cheeks. They felt hot and she felt a bit of happiness blooming within. To think that TJ remembered such a minor detail from then…she was hard-pressed to contain her jubilation. It seemed that if his memories had not been sealed, there would be much and more that he could recall about their time together on Asgard. She too, remembered much of it, but some precious memories had escaped her.

The two had taken their date into Belos' Traveller's Bar and were having a meal.

A young lady in a crimson dress with white sleeves along with shoes, a hair ribbon and socks matching both the former and latter. She also wore a yellow apron with two cuffs at the end of her dress' white short sleeves. Her sister wore the same outfit, and a large pair of glasses. Both with sunset orange hair and chestnut eyes. If Peorth recalled correctly, they were twins who worked at the restaurant, respectively named Erin and Airin-TJ's benefactors.

"Hi there! What can I get for you two?" Airin asked with a waitress' affable smile. Very professional.

"I will take a medium house blend please." Peorth answered as she clasped her hands together.

"And for you?"

Naomi's eyes shifted to and fro as she desperately scanned the menu. "Uhh…umm...p-parfait…please."

"Sure thing!" Erin took the menu from her and made her way to the counter.

"You are rather fond of sweets, are you not?" Peorth asked with a gentle smile.

"Y-yeah? What of it?" Naomi asked defensively.

The queen shook her head gently. "Just a simple speculation. The times where you are not eating a lollipop are far and few between."

"You're telling me. I haven't had any candy in hours. Mona's been sneakin' a few and before I could yell at her for it, Sis sent me to you. Now we're here." She placed a hand to her cheek. "But I guess it's not all bad. Maybe I'll get some cotton candy on my way back. Only time they sell that stuff back home is during big events.

"But anyway, lemme' just make sure I'm hearing this right. So that look-alike of yours over there isn't you, but she's your zombie twin sister?" She gestured to the two sitting at a nearby table drinking water and chatting.

"I would not say zombie…per se, but she certainly does have some undead qualities, along with the fact that she is indeed my twin sister."

Naomi was silent for a few moments following the event. It was very rarely that she would put on such a hardened and contemplative face, but there were only so many instances where one could accept the unusual. Agasura, Human, Cerebian, it did not matter. There were matters in the world that they could not explain, let alone understand.

Such a matter as this, could also be considered delicate in the case of the effected party. But Peorth had come to terms with her sister's demise many a years ago-she had accepted both her roles as proxy and queen of Asgard and rose to the challenge. But she had also accepted TJ's love in all of it's forms. Though she had sworn that she would protect him even before then, that defining moment in her journey had only reinforced her resolve.

She chuckled gently. To think that a day would come where she could see him happily eating at a café was a day she never thought she would see and yet, she did now. That peace, that time, and his wishes-she coveted them, and would fight with all her might to keep them.

"Do not make such an expression Naomi. It is something of the past, and perhaps something I should have spoken to all of you about sooner," Peorth said with a queen's grace.

"But…"

She shook her head gently. "The time for grieving is long past. Nevertheless, my sister stands before us now as I had known her…albeit some changes to her core persona, but she is Freya nonetheless.

"It is, inevitable after all. We too, have laws and rules that we must follow, and in order to see them through I have little doubt that we will require her help in future."

"And you think having her hit on the Abellan is gonna help this cause?"

The guild master's gaze was unflinching. "For TJ to understand the God's Governors is a prominent mission God Ah has tasked him with. I know not all the intricacies of the matter, but I wish for him to build a strong rapport with all of them.

"Less than a year ago he had engaged in battle with God's Governor of Fire Amata in the City of Iron. I consider it fortunate, as he was not forced to cross swords with God's Governor of Earth Suuba during the destruction of Hanamah.

"Alas, whether he would win that battle or not, I know not, but if the reports from guild master Reina or her Keruz Samson at the time were anything to go by, Suuba had tapped into a power unknown to any of us. The sight of that phoenix could be seen from miles away…" She took a sip of her drink.

"Perhaps if I and my Keruz had been there at the time we would have been able to rescue one of the two before Suuba was captured and Choen Palm fled the scene. But these are nothing more than my musings on unchangeable events."

"You think about those things a lot, don't you Queenie?" Naomi asked with a wistful look in her eyes.

"One could say it is my debt to the lives lost that day."

She turned her eyes towards the two once more and placed a finger to her lips so she could hear their conversation.

Erin and Airin had stopped at the table and seemed to engage the pair in conversation.

"Is that really you, TJ? You look completely different!" Erin said with a bright grin. "You've really got the whole 'city-kid' look going on!"

"Hmmph…" Freya muttered as she puffed out her cheeks and glared at the two.

"I-it's nothing like that!" TJ said bashfully as he rubbed the back of his neck. "I suppose my hair was my doing but the clothes were a gift from someone I know. He's a good guy."

"Is this perhaps your girlfriend…?" Airin asked with a look of unease. She held the silver platter in her hands up to her chest as if it could defend her from the vicious Freya.

Much to their surprise, her expression did a heel-face turn and she looked like she had an incredible air of happiness about her.

"Hm? Girlfriend?" TJ asked as he tilted his head quizzically.

"You know, your lover! You two have to be going out if you're here on a date!" Erin suggested as she nudged him with her elbow.

"L-lover?!" He sputtered. "We're not like that!"

"Ehhhh?!" The girls said in unison-those girls being Erin and Freya.

"I've had this happen to me more times than I could count, but it's the first time I've had to be the one to deny it. Also why are you surprised Freya?"

"Should I not be?"

Erin and Airin laughed and TJ pursed his lips.

Weldin made his way over with their meals and placed them down before the two.

"Check it out Gramps! TJ came to visit us with his girlfriend!" Erin said with a grin.

Weldin laughed gently. "TJ! It has been some time since I last saw you. How has your journey been?"

He grinned as his eyes crinkled. "If I was to put it into one word? Hectic. But you don't know how glad I am to be back."

"How far across the continent have you gone? Have you been to Lilliput?! Do the Lilliputians actually exist?!" Erin asked excitedly as she began hopping on the spot, almost ready to bombard him with more questions.

"Now, now Erin, you can ask TJ more questions later. You musn't keep customers waiting. Run along, both of you."

"Okaaaay." The two said in unison before they set off to the counter to fulfill the orders ready to be delivered.

Peorth and Naomi spotted the two heading their way and immediately turned to face each other so they could remain inconspicuous.

"Here's your parfait!" Erin said as she placed it and a spoon down before Naomi.

"And your house blend coffee." Airin added as she served Peorth the drink.

The two went on to take the orders of some of the other customers in the shop and Peorth turned her gaze back to the trio.

Naomi took a spoonful of ice cream and put the spoon in her mouth. "Nice little place they got here, and good parfaits too. Wonder if anyone can play that piano over there." She looked in the direction of a small stage with a black piano and a small seat to accompany it, but no one to play it.

"Perhaps not," Peorth said absent-mindedly.

She could play the piano, but to do so at such a time would be unusual. On the other hand, if TJ was to ask her to, she would gladly do so.

She dearly missed the days where the two would sneak out of the castle and he would play for her. He was a mischievous child, but one who did so because he wanted her to see the world beyond the castle walls. It was thanks to him that she saw the outside world, met her comrades, came to know her cousin and attained the love of music she had now.

She sighed dreamily. The thought of the two playing their duet was a brief, but magical moment. Such an event, where it felt as if they had become one both in body and soul was something she had only experienced once prior to that moment. But it was indescribable. It was as if she had transcended her very being for a short while-at those times, she had felt closer to him than ever. Now, she could only conduct for him. She could neither form the Instance Dungeon nor summon the instrument used during the ritual, but the very act was something she perused textbooks to learn and understand. Something she was as of yet to do, but had not given up yet. It was possible that their bond would become stronger, and the lines between their existences would be blurred even further.

"I had heard recently that a new Instance Dungeon had appeared in the Pyramids of Elfa. There were many rumours floating about that someone that looked like you was seen within." Weldin said as he looked on the Abellan with shuttered eyes. "Even so, I did not think for a moment that it was you. You would not hurt another adventurer if you could help it."

TJ opened his mouth to speak but closed it solemnly. He looked down at his shoes before he cracked a smile. "Thanks for believing in me Weldin. It's relieving to know that I've still got a few allies in the cities."

"You didn't go into the Pyramids after them, did you TJ? I heard it was really dangerous…" Airin muttered.

"Huh? Oh uhh…yeah…I kinda did…Heh." He rubbed his neck as she chuckled sheepishly.

Freya pursed her lips at his words. "If you are going to do something dangerous you should allow me to accompany you, Little Lamb."

"Ahh if only things were so simple!" He groaned as he scratched his cheek.

"Oho! Little Lamb hmm? You've already got pet names and you're still denying your relationship?" Erin said as she returned and placed her hands on her hips.

"I already told you it's not like that!"

Naomi stole a glance over her shoulder as Erin clasped her hands together next to her cheek and made kissy faces to tease the Abellan.

"You're not bothered by this at all Queenie?" She asked.

"By what?" Peorth asked as her eyes turned to meet Naomi's.

"TJ being surrounded by a bunch of girls." She said waving the spoon at her. "If I didn't know better I'd say the kid's a natural player. I'd be concerned."

Peorth smiled at this comment. "It is inevitable, but even so, it does not mean he will so easily fawn over them. Alas, our guild has many young women amidst them as it is, and four out of the five God's Governors are female also. I believe that TJ is comfortable with his sexuality enough to be amidst women with few problems."

"That's some faith you've got there Queenie. If my boyfriend was caught with other girls I'd put him through the ringer." Naomi said as she shrugged. "But more often than not, those Human men are worthless. Your Abellan wouldn't happen to have a twin or any brothers would he?"

"He does have one…" She began as she closed her eyes.

"Does he? What's his name? Introduce me!"

"Gula."

The Vampanelar's expression immediately soured. "You have a terrible sense of humour Queenie."

She chuckled gently. "I would not lie to you, Naomi."

That evening the two had walked back to the Abellan's home and stood outside.

"Looks like our time's almost up." TJ said as he looked into the tiny hourglass and watched as the last few grains of sand began their descent to the lower half.

"It is truly a shame," Freya sighed. "But even so, I enjoyed my time with you Little Lamb. Very much so!" She beamed. "Thank you very much for taking me out on this date today, and remembering your promise to me."

He knit his eyebrows. "It's nothing you need to thank me for. It's just what any man would do."

He always strived to be a man of his word. A reliable and courageous ally. More often than not he faced some hardships, but with their allies by his side he had pulled through many a dangerous scenario safely. Peorth hoped he would carry that spirit with him always.

The God's Governor laughed. "Perhaps, but you are not just any man. You are my Little Lamb."

He closed his eyes as he muttered, "I still don't know what that-" before he could finish the sentence Freya leaned toward him and kissed him on the cheek before a series of beads of light gathered around her and she began to levitate. "-means…" His cheeks flushed as he watched the girl wave to him.

"Thank you so much Little Lamb! Please take me out again soon!"

At those words the last of the sand fell to the bottom of the hourglass and they all vanished, along with the colour in the artifact.

Once the light faded from Freya the body descended back down and Kooh stood before the Abellan.

"Whew! It's already nighttime and I'm still full of juice!" She said as she looked to the stars. She turned her eyes to TJ and smiled. "You're looking even more dazed than you did earlier TJ! Did Freya get a leg up on you again?"

"I-she-jeez…" He muttered as he pursed his lips.

"Yeah she does that huh?" Kooh laughed and suddenly came to a halt. "Ah." TJ's eyes shifted from his shoes to her. "I forgot to get the invitations from Princess…"

"TJ blinked. "Oh…I guess that's partially my fault. We should probably go apologize huh?"

Kooh nodded and the two went inside.

Peorth watched in awe and slight envy before Naomi gave her a gentle tap on the head.

"This is no time to be spacing out Queenie! If they go up there and find out you're not in the room your cover's gonna be blown!" Naomi cried as she ran after them.

"That is correct." Peorth said as she immediately chased after her.

"I'll give you a boost up to the window so get ready to jump!"

Naomi ran ahead and stopped before the window, then cupped her hands together. Peorth ran towards her and placed a foot to her hands before she was launched up to the window. She placed her hands to the window sill and catapulted her body within and tumbled before she came to an abrupt and skillful halt, one leg bent and on the ground while the other upright. She took her seat and continued where she had left off as the two stepped into the room.

"Hey Princess! I'm sorry I forgot to pick up the letters so I came back!" Kooh said as she opened the door.

"Sorry for keeping Kooh so long Chief. I hope it won't get you in trouble with Lucia and her sisters."

The guild master turned to the two and smiled placidly before she said, "Think nothing of it."

"T-today's the day huh? I mean, we're just setting out today but I'm still super nervous," TJ muttered.

His hands were to his face and his teeth chattered.

The Abellan uneasily paced back and forth in his bedroom as he awaited the return of the guild master and her Keruz.

A couple days had passed and Belos had finally returned to normal. The usual gathering of people had brought the city's typical bustling nature back to the fore. Due to that fact, Peorth had assured TJ that she would be fine amidst the crowds, and if the murderer was to act, she and Kooh would be there to put a stop to them.

"The hell're you so antsy about? You've been through worse than a freakin' caravan ride," Su answered.

"That's not the problem though! I mean, I am the Abellan but the only people who really know that is everyone from Yggdrasil and a few of the other guild masters…and Salem. This is a big deal! What if I screw it up?!"

Su emerged from the gem and gave him a chop to the head. He stopped his pacing and winced as he rubbed the spot she hit.

"Look, if you can face off with that psycho bitch, you can handle a meeting with some suits."

The God's Governor shrugged her shoulders and sighed.

"That aside, I'm gonna be stuck through this shit with you. If you're so scared you can hide behind me."

TJ lowered his hands as he chuckled lightly. It reminded him of their introduction to Vanir and Skuld.

"I might hold you to that."

She furrowed her brows at the statement.

"If you start snuggling up to my ass I'm gonna grind you into meat with my heel. Got it?"

He raised both hands in surrender at the statement.

"Guys! We're here!" From outside the two could hear the sound of Kooh's shouts.

TJ leaned out the window and saw the guild master and Keruz walking side by side. Each carried a bag slung over their shoulders. As TJ waved back Peorth looked up to him and waved ever so slightly.

Once both were inside they rested their things down.

"We brought some goods for the trip that we picked up at the supermarket!" Kooh said with a bright grin. "We won't be able to really cook up any fancy dinners along the way, but we'll get take-out while we're in Yong Gyoung."

"Sounds like a plan to me," TJ added.

"That matter aside, it would be best if we selected our outfits prior to attending the summit. There are some dresses and suits within the closet that you two may choose from. If they are not to your tastes or you feel unsure, there are some that Kooh had selected that she believed would fit you two magnificently."

"Ugh…she did?" Su asked with a look of exasperation in her eyes.

"Aww come now G.G! I picked one that you'd look super cute in!" The God's Governor answered with a twinkle in her eye.

"You think I give a rat's ass about looking cute?!"

"We have also brought the costumes as Vanir had suggested, courtesy of the Vampanelar siblings. Should you have the opportunity to speak with them TJ, please give them your regards," Peorth continued.

The Abellan tilted his head with a puzzled look.

"Costumes? What for?"

This surprised the guild master in turn.

"Did I not explain Vanir's plan? Forgive my negligence. I had forgotten you were not present at the time."

He gestured it was alright.

"So what did Vanir suggest?"

She quickly explained what Vanir had in mind, and the moment she mentioned the Abio Rangers there was an unmistakable twinkle in his eyes.

"So Lucia and the others got us Abio Ranger costumes?" He gasped with delight. "C-can I be Abio Red?!"

Peorth chuckled gently. "You may."

Su sighed and crossed her arms.

"He's like a kid in a freakin' candy store sometimes."

"I think it's cute though," Kooh added.

"You think everything's cute."

Peorth removed the set of costumes from the bag including a red, blue, green, and yellow costume. She handed TJ that which he requested and he spun on the spot before holding it close. Following the event he began to climb into the outfit and she looked to the others.

"Kooh, Suuba, would you like to try yours on?" She asked.

"I'm good Princess."

"Who's bright idea was it to get me one of those damn things?" Su asked with a look of disgust.

"Lucia," Peorth answered.

"I'll turn in my grave before you get me in that."

After donning the helmet TJ struck a series of poses. Of the many things he could remember, it was definitely something he managed to retain. On the other hand, he had seen others dressed as Abio Rangers. Though they could not see it, he had a wide grin on his face.

"Okay TJ, since the suit fits there's no problems there, so! Let's get you into your fancy clothes shall we?" Kooh asked as she clapped her hands.

He removed the helmet and shook his hair free.

"Okay."

Kooh walked over to the closet and grabbed the door with both hands before she swung it open. Within there were a multitude of dresses and suits in all styles and colours. The Abellan looked on in awe.

"They're mostly hand-me-downs, but they're all in really good shape!" The God's Governor added with a smile. "Though if they're not to your liking, you're free to try on the dresses too!"

"Eh? Oh…no thanks! A suit's fine for me," He added.

He looked between the three girls nervously.

"So what about you guys?"

"Princess and I already picked out our outfits."

"Would you like to see?" Peorth asked.

He nodded rapidly. He had not seen her in a dress since the events at Elfa. Thankfully, this time around it was a rather joyous occasion. Nerve-wracking, but joyous nonetheless.

Kooh rummaged through her bag and drew a pair of dresses. She handed one to Peorth before she unfurled her own. Kooh's was a form-fitting turquoise one-shoulder scuba-knit dress. Peorth's was a long violet sleeveless and strapless, asymmetric dress. There was a clear shawl that rested around the bust.

"Looks good," TJ said.

"Wait 'till you see us in them," Kooh laughed. "Now we need to pick out something for you and Su."

"I don't want anything too grand! I know I'll stand out, but just a regular suit will do fine for me," TJ said.

Kooh rummaged through the closet and took out a suit.

"How about this one?"

He could not truly tell the difference between them, so he had no qualms on the matter. It was an ordinary looking deep blue vest with matching pants. There were pockets on both flanks, one on the chest and two at the flanks. There was a white dress shirt beneath it also.

"That'll do just fine. Thanks!"

Kooh took a hat out of the closet. A black pork pie with a matching ribbon and a silver feather.

"Hat?"

"Eh? Oh…"

"Princess?"

"I approve," Peorth added quickly.

"Well…I suppose."

The God's Governor made her way across the room and opened one of the dresser drawers. She took out a tie and bowtie.

"Which do you prefer?"

"Well they're both alright in my books."

"Princess?"

"I recommend the bow."

Kooh gave her a thumbs-up with a grin.

"It's unanimous!"

"I-is it?!" TJ asked with a look of surprise.

Su was looking through the closet herself and picked out a tan suit.

"Are these things unisex or what?" She asked as she eyed it warily.

"They're not, but that one used to be mine so you can totally fit in it."

"I'm having second thoughts about this."

The God's Governor turned to TJ.

"While you try that on we're gonna step out. If you need any help just call which of us you want to come in!"

"I'll be fine, but I appreciate it nonetheless." He answered with a laugh.

"H-hey! Quit pulling stupid!" Su hissed as Kooh dragged her out the door with Peorth in tow.

"Well…nothing to it then…" He said as he eyed the suit.

After he had gotten into it he looked it over from top to bottom. It had been quite some time since he had put himself in a suit. It was a little embarrassing to admit, but it made him feel…fresh. He looked in the mirror and smiled slightly.

"We're comin' in!" Kooh shouted as she opened the door beaming.

"W-what if I was changing?" He asked as he eyed her uneasily.

"Good thing you weren't huh?"

He laughed dryly, but his reaction immediately changed as Peorth stepped in after her cousin. He looked embarrassed, and she did too somewhat as she eyed him from head to toe.

"You look very handsome in a suit TJ. It suits you," She said.

"Right?"

He laughed sheepishly. "You think so?"

"Definitely looks better than a crop top. I was actually getting used to seeing you half-dressed," Su snickered.

She returned to the closet and looked over the hats.

He pursed his lips. "That was Vanir's fault!"

"Speaking of Vanir…" Kooh said as Su tried on one of the hats. "That hat reminds me of his."

The God's Governor took the fedora off of her head and hurled it at Kooh. Following the event she put back on her previous hat.

"Aww come on G.G! You can't wear that at a formal event!"

"Yeah? We'll see about that," She hissed.

TJ and Su had changed into their regular clothes and the group had set out for the city of Yong Gyoung with Peorth and Kooh. The guild master had informed them that they were to meet with their companions in the city. Following the event, they would take a caravan to Lemanin. Should everything go accordingly, they would arrive the day of the Summit with time to spare.

The group had arrived in the peaceful city of Yong Gyoung briefly after teleporting. Peorth put away her warp crystal and glanced around the surrounding area.

"Oh? That you Boss Lady?" Axle asked as he approached.

The Blader was accompanied by Thee, Alicia and Ken.

"Looks like the others are here too. That's all of us right?" Alicia asked as she waved.

"I am pleased to see that you are all doing well," Peorth said. "Since we have all gathered and there is still time before our departure, I suggest that we eat a meal. I will pay the costs."

Axle fist-pumped at the statement.

"I'm not one to question your decisions, but are you sure about that?" Ken asked as he knit his eyebrows.

TJ had not seen him since they celebrated in Elias. The last time he had seen Axle was when he was in the hospital, though he, Thee and Alicia were also present for the celebration at his home. He felt happiness from the bottom of his heart to see his companions healthy and safe once more.

"It is a small matter. You have all been working very hard for us lately, so consider it my gratitude for your efforts.

"Nevertheless, we have a long journey ahead of us, so I would like you all to be satisfied before we set out."

"I've got no complaints then. I'll take you up on that offer Peorth." Thee said with a grin.

Peorth placed a finger to her lips.

"Alas, I have not spent enough time in Yong Gyoung to know the best place for cuisine. What would all of you suggest?"

"Leave it to me Boss! I know the best places around here!" Axle enthusiastically said as he pointed at himself with his thumb.

Alicia slowed down to greet the two as the rest followed Axle.

"TJ, Su! How are you? It's been a while!" She said with a smile.

"It's been a little crazy lately, but thankfully we're all okay." TJ said as he beamed.

"I've seen worse, I guess." Su answered with a shrug.

"You don't know how glad I am to see you! I'd heard you got caught up with Choen Palm when she invaded Elias too. To think you managed to get out of that in one piece is either a miracle, or just that you guys are that strong."

He laughed sheepishly. "I think it just worked out because there was enough of us to hold her back. She's gotten a lot stronger since the last time though…so if you do see her, I'd recommend getting as far away as you can.

"I'd rather not see anyone else fall by her hands."

Alicia smiled somberly, but her eyes showed that she took his words to heart.

"Don't worry TJ. I know, and I haven't forgotten.

"Peorth makes sure we always travel in groups, so if we do run into her we should be able to hold our own. Though I don't think any of us would want to fight her if we don't have to!"

TJ smiled as he nodded and Su silently listened.

"This is the place," Axle said enthusiastically.

The group stepped into Yong Gyoung's Traveller's Bar and TJ looked upon it with nostalgia.

"Oh man! It's been a while!"

The place was as he had remembered it-the yellow faded walls, the white tables and the matching chairs, even the brown counter with the stout inn keeper behind it.

She had hardly changed over the span of his journey also. She wore a light blue cheongsam top with a tiny flower and polka-dot design along with a dark blue skirt and white apron over it. Her greying hair was tied back into a bun with a single hair stick within it.

"Hey Rantien! Can we get a table for eight?" Axle asked.

Rantien looked over them and gave him a wary look.

"There's seven of you. You expecting someone else?" She asked in turn.

"Seriously?"

Axle turned to his companions and counted them off with a finger.

"Oh…you're right. Well, seven it is!"

TJ looked to both sides of him but did not see Su anywhere.

"You should probably warn them next time, Su." He muttered to his gem.

"Meh. He'll get over it," She answered.

"Alright take a seat over there. I'll bring you some menus." Rantien answered before she pointed to one of the tables at the far side of the room.

The group sat down at the table and Rantien arrived shortly after with menus. While they all looked over them Peorth took a quick glance over hers and closed it.

"Now then, I shall begin." She said before she cleared her throat. "I must thank you all for gathering here today. As you are aware, a very important event is to take place in the coming days, and I have requested your assistance in seeing the matter through successfully. Though the location is unknown to much of Humanity, and is kept hidden through the barrier, we have decided to take no risks in ensuring that none of the attendees will be in any sort of danger during this. To aid in that cause, I have summoned you all to act as the guard for TJ, Kooh and myself, along with the other guild masters."

Rantien returned with a pencil and notepad.

"So what can I get for you?"

"Wonton soup please," Peorth answered.

"Poached drunken chicken for me!" Kooh said with a raised hand.

"I'll take an order of zha jiang mian," Thee added.

"I'll have the usual Rantien," Axle said.

"Uh huh…ma po tofu…" She muttered as she scribbled it down.

"Can I get a beef stir-fry?" Ken ased.

"Spring rolls please!" Alicia added as she closed her menu.

"I guess I'll give the jiaozi a try," TJ said.

Rantien made her way to the kitchen after she collected the menus.

"Alright Boss, you can continue your speech." Axle said as he intertwined his fingers.

"You have my thanks. I shall."

She gave a nod to him before she turned to the group.

"Now then, as Axle is the only Bashutz within Yggdrasil currently, I have selected him to lead you all on this mission. There are no particular objectives that need be fulfilled, but I request that you remain diligent nonetheless. The likelihood of there being any incidents during the summit is highly unlikely, but should there be anything that seems out of place in Lemanin I ask that you investigate.

"Nevertheless, though I will be present on location, you will be taking instructions from Axle. Until the mission is over, you must report to him. If need be, that is, should there be an emergency that arises during your patrols then I ask that you use your guild badge's 'whisper' function to inform me. If any anomalies occur during the summit, I shall inform all of you via guild chat. Other wise, I will not remain in contact with you until the summit has ended."

"No problemo Boss." Axle said with a grin.

Rantien returned once more with a platter and laid their meals out before them. Each offered their thanks and she returned to the counter. The group chatted for a couple moments at how the food looked and smelled before they began to eat.

"Moving on, TJ and Kooh, I would like to discuss what we are to do."

The two nodded solemnly.

"I do not have doubts that the Cerebians will hesitate at the truth we lay out before them. Revealing my identity may have some believe our cause, but those unfamiliar with my image will not likely recognize me. Alas, it has been many a years since those who did know of me had last seen me, so the likelihood of recognizing me is very low. Thus, there is one action we can take that I feel will solidify our identities."

"What's that Chief?" TJ asked.

"Calling."

He began to choke and coughed violently before Kooh offered him some water.

"Phew…thanks Kooh. Are you sure about this Chief? I mean…I guess that's not something that needs to be a secret but I never thought we'd use it like that. Wait does that mean…"

He eyed Kooh with curiosity.

"Yep! I can do it too." She answered with a grin.

"I really shouldn't be surprised, but seeing is believing…"

Peorth nodded solemnly.

"We are the only remaining Cerebians who can use this ability. I confess that to go to such lengths may sound excessive in theory, but I believe it may be necessary. We are asking the Cerebians to accept the fact that their late queen may yet be alive, and even more so that their saviour is among them. It would be a simple matter to assume those identities, but anyone would look at such a suggestion with a great degree of skepticism. If we were to look at things in a wider lens, we may be imprisoned for fraud. Such an action would not be unwarranted."

"Princess' got a point there," Kooh said.

"Man, and I thought we had it rough," Thee laughed dryly. "Sounds like you guys are gonna be put on trial for heresy or something."

"Rest in peace guys. We hardly knew ye," Ken said.

"Don't write us off like that. It's too early for us to die," TJ muttered under his breath.

"We will be fine. I can assure you of this," Peorth said calmly.

"Moving on, the last pieces of information I would like to share with you is the journey itself. It will be a two-day, one night trip. During this time I must ask that you refer to me as guild master Belldandy, until the end of the summit. I will debrief you on the reasons for this at a later date. Also, we will be driven there via caravan by one of Bastion's drivers, José, courtesy of guild master Reina."

"We should get a caravan driver in Yggdrasil too," Alicia said conversationally.

"It could be you," Axle answered.

"No way! They're expensive! And finding two giant Prirings to pull it would be hard."

"I'll get a license if you're paying Axle." Thee said with a devilish grin.

"Do I look like I'm made of money? You're a successful adventurer, you can do it yourself!" The Blader retorted with an exasperated gaze.

"But you are a Bashutz Ax! Why not help out your juniors?" Kooh asked with a teasing smile.

"You're the only Keruz in Yggdrasil. And I heard you were there helping rebuild Elias, so you'd earned a bunch. Isn't it high time you share the wealth?" Axle asked Kooh in turn.

"No way! I've got rent to pay!" She laughed as she waved him off.

"So do I! I live alone!"

"If you'll cook and clean for me I'll consider being your roomie."

"Terrible deal. Awful. No way."

TJ laughed. It seemed that very little had changed among them. They were as carefree as ever.

Shortly after their meal the group made their way out of the city to the outskirts, just off the path to the mountains.

As Peorth had said, there was a caravan resting on the outskirts and a couple of people sitting in the back of it.

"Looks like that's our ride." Axle said as he pointed to them. "Let's go get introduced."

Peorth took her glasses off and drew a second pair of glasses. They were similar to the fake glasses she wore previously, but the nose and moustache were not included. Was that actually part of her disguise?

As they approached they got a closer look at the pair within the vehicle.

The first was a man with bronzed skin, chestnut eyes and violet, almost black hair tied into a bomb-style ponytail with a goatee. He wore a tan vest over a white dress shirt and matching cargo pants. He also wore brown folded boots and small gold earrings.

Next to him was a young lady with wavy aqua shoulder-length hair, purple eyes, a bindi and a skin tone just slightly darker than her companion's. She wore a long-sleeved black and white knit tunic, blue jeans and a pair of running shoes. On both of her flanks were sheathed blades.

"Hmm? You lot must be guild master Belldandy and co. am I right?" José asked as he looked to them.

"That'd be us. I take it you're José?" Axle asked.

"The one and only."

"Alright everybody, file in and let's get these introductions out of the way!"

Axle gestured them all over and one by one each of Yggdrasil's members introduced themselves.

"It's nice to meet you guys too. I'm Cleo, one of Bastion's Tronz." Cleo said as she got up and shook everyone's hands. "Hope you don't mind that I'm hitching a ride with you guys. I missed the original pickup date so José is helping me out of that pinch."

"Belldandy. Nice to meet'cha Cleo." Peorth said as she shook her hand in turn.

At that, a multitude of eyes from Yggdrasil's members darted to the guild master with puzzled and questioning gazes. Su had to close TJ's gaping mouth.

Cleo laughed and grinned. "I'd heard a lot about you from our guild master, Belldandy. Your accent is unmistakable after all!"

The guild master adjusted her glasses. "Well y'know, it's one of the thing I'm known fer' after all."

TJ placed a finger to his lips as his eyes started to swim. Was he hearing correctly? He had only heard Peorth use contractions in her speech during her youth, but not once speak with an accent. It was nostalgic, but at the same time downright puzzling. Even in his memories she had not spoken in such a manner, but he had heard something of the sort from Yuna.

He shook his head while the group chatted a bit more. She did say that her true identity was hidden, so this must have been how she did it. He had to keep her true identity a secret, so he would have to go along with her actions. Given the scenario though, could he still address her as he always had?

"Alright everyone. Hop in. We've got a bit of a trip ahead of us, but I'll make sure you all get there in one piece. I'm not much of a fighter, but you won't find a better driver, I can assure you of that." José told them.

"If anything happens, Cleo will help you out."

"Huh?! I'm just one girl! I can't defend eight people by myself!" Cleo cried out as José walked to the front of the caravan.

Axle placed a hand to her shoulder.

"Protect us well Cleo."

"I don't like where this is going at all."

"All aboard," José shouted to them.

One by one the members of Yggdrasil climbed into the caravan and took their seats, followed by the extra member of Bastion. At the sound of José's shout the vehicle began to move down the dirt path, and the visage of Yong Gyoung faded away into the distance.

As they rode into the evening, a few of the members of Yggdrasil had a heated discussion about various things of interest. At this juncture, they had entered the mountains just off the path of Yong Gyoung and travelled through valleys and dirt landscapes, steadily ascending upwards to the heart of the mountains. Within lay their destination.

"Trust me when I say this-there is nothing better than a toned body," Axle said with startling conviction.

Ken cocked an eyebrow at the statement.

"What makes you so sure of that?" He asked.

"Dude, the proof is in the pudding. Have you ever seen a girl with a toned body?!"

He raised a hand and made an 'OK' sign with it as he closed his eyes and raised his head in an almost glorified manner.

"Say it with me now. Toned. Glutes."

Thee began to laugh and he covered his mouth with his hand. Ken on the other hand looked disheartened by the request.

"I'll uhh…I'll pass."

Axle placed a hand to his shoulder and looked at him passionately.

"Ken, listen to me. This is important. This is a man's romance! This isn't something you just refuse to think about! You accept it! Embrace it! Burn the image into the very core of your soul and understand the glory of it all!"

"Right on Ax!" Kooh said with a raised fist.

He let go of the Powers' shoulder and eyed Kooh warily.

"Are you actually agreeing with me or are you mocking me?"

"Oh I totally agree!"

Cleo, Thee and Alicia all gave her surprised looks.

"Proof?"

Kooh's eyes rolled from looking at Axle to the guild master who sat side by side with TJ. The Abellan had his hands to his chest as he quietly sung the lyrics he had read to Ardoss' song while Peorth instructed him. Kooh's focus returned to Axle and he gave her a thumbs-up with a glint in his eye.

"Did these two come to some sort of understanding?" Ken asked as he eyed the two grinning at each other.

Axle pointed to Thee.

"You agree right? You know what it's all about, don't you?"

"Hm?" Thee looked surprised. "Well…I can't say I dislike that sort of thing but…" He rubbed his nose with his finger. "Nothing beats a tall girl. Hands down."

"So you're saying you're into amazons?" Ken asked.

"D-don't call them amazons! There's a difference!"

Axle looked to Alicia who sat next to Cleo and she looked startled.

"So? What's your preference? You girls are here too, so you might as well join in the conversation. We won't judge."

Alicia's eyes begin to swim as she clenched her fists to her legs.

"This is…oddly familiar," She muttered under her breath.

Cleo looked concerned as she muttered, "Does that mean this is normal for you guys?"

"T-that depends?"

She sighed quietly. "Then again, I can't blame you. Guild master Reina and Alessa…when those two get going they chase both the boys and the girls away. I kinda know how you feel."

"So? How about it Alicia? Spill the beans! Captain's orders."

"That's unfair!" She cried out.

He shrugged in response while he grinned.

"W-well…I suppose a man with abs isn't so bad?"

"Oho!"

Thee glanced into his armour while Ken let out a defeated chuckle.

"How about you Cleo? No need to be shy around us."

"I'm…I'll pass. I have no preference." She said as she raised both her hands in surrender.

"You're unfair," Alicia complained.

"Ken? You're among the boys. You're not gonna hang the others out to dry are you?"

He looked to Thee, Kooh and Alicia, then shrugged. Following that Thee took his hat and the two started wrestling on the floor.

"What about you Su? You've been sitting there sulking this whole time."

"You idiots…" She muttered as she slumped her shoulders.

"Should've saw that coming," Axle muttered under his breath.

"Have shit-tier taste."

The jaws of those in Yggdrasil dropped at her statement.

"I'm gonna say this just once, got it? If it ain't got legs, it isn't worth looking twice at. Got it?" At that she sat back down and placed a hand to her face.

"I-I think my heart skipped a beat!" Kooh said with her hands to her chest.

"I think my affection for you increased a bit there!" Axle said with a passionate look.

"Keep it. Don't want it," The Governor muttered in response.

"Hey TJ! What abou-"

Before Thee could finish his sentence Axle slapped a hand to his mouth. At this juncture the Warrior's hair was splayed and one of his eyes remained shuttered.

"Shh! Don't teach him anything about that. If we corrupt him with this sort of talk the Boss is gonna turn into a demon! Do you wanna get on her bad side?"

Thee shook his head rapidly in response.

Alicia looked disheartened.

"Are you saying the rest of us are corrupted?" She asked.

"No I mean we just turned into adults." The Blader answered.

"Same thing," Su snickered.

Cleo looked to Peorth and back to Axle.

"Are you saying that she's scary when she's mad? But she looks like she wouldn't hurt a fly!"

"It's the quiet ones you should be most afraid of Cleo."

She knit her brows.

"I'll…keep that in mind."

When night had rolled around the group got off the path and set up camp on the side of the road. José was taking the time to feed his prirings and the others sat around the fire as they had a meal.

"Axle?" Cleo asked and he nodded in response. "I have a question. I hope it's nothing too personal."

"Don't worry about it. I don't really have much to hide anyway, so ask away." He answered with an affable smile.

She nodded solemnly.

"I remember when you were a part of Bastion…it may have been years ago, but I haven't forgotten about you. Reina also said that there may have been a chance that we'd meet today."

She twiddled her thumbs as she mulled her thoughts over.

"Anyway…I…I was wondering why you had left the guild."

He looked surprised. "Oh!"

He put down his fork and placed a fist into an open palm.

"I remember now!"

"You…forgot?"

"No, no I remember you now!"

"Bad Ax," Kooh said.

She rapped him on the head with her fist and he laughed gently. Cleo looked rather dejected at the statement.

"Man, how many years has it been? You look completely different now!"

Ken, Thee and Alicia all gave him curious looks.

"I didn't know you were part of another guild Axle," Thee said.

"I'm actually a little bit curious about this too. Let's hear that story."

"Hey, hey this isn't about why I joined it's about why I left. Though it's not some tragic, action-fueled adventure." The Blader grinned and laughed. "Truth be told, I figured whether I was there or not, Bastion'd be fine. It was a great place-I'm willing to bet it still is, but there's something I needed to set my sights on.

"With or without them, it would've been my main focus. It's just that Reina and the rest of Bastion had a mission of their own that they needed to fulfill. In that sense, you could say our interests coincided, but she had a much wider spectrum of objectives, while mine was very limited.

"I suppose you could say over the years, I got frustrated with myself and my inability to see that duty through. No matter how many times we busted those Dark Moon bastards, I could never find what it was I sought out and it got to me. Then somewhere along the way I met Belldandy."

He looked over to the guild master who sat with her Keruz and the Abellan. TJ talked animatedly while Peorth rapidly scribbled into a book and Kooh remained with her arms draped over the queen's shoulders.

"With just a single look she could tell that there was something about me. She scouted me out, asked me to confide in her and the next thing I knew…I was sold. I gotta hand it to her, she certainly had a way with words.

"Anyway, Reina was actually pretty good about the whole thing. She knew the circumstances and apologized that she couldn't be more help, but I don't blame her. What she and the rest of you guys have done may have saved all of our bacon. I didn't get to see you off then, but lemme' apologize now."

He lowered his head apologetically.

"I'm sorry that we had to part like that. It was selfish of me, but I had something important to do then and that still holds true to this very day. 'Til I see that duty through, I'm still gonna be running the gamut with these guys and even after that I will. Both because I want to save the world, and because this is my home now."

He grinned.

"It's like having an extended family."

She nodded solemnly.

"I'm sorry too. I wasn't there to see you off that day. I wanted to find out why you had left, but our guild master had said it's something best heard from the person himself. She told me she couldn't tell it better herself, no matter how hard she tried."

Axle laughed heartily at those words.

"She hasn't changed at all over the years either huh? Good. She was a damn good guild master back then and she could only get better. Just lacked the confidence of one up until after our raid.

"Completely unrelated, but I used to have the biggest crush on her back in the day. Man her figure was burned into my eyes the first time I saw her, but I didn't even stand a ghost of a chance with her. She'd probably been long since spoken for."

"Did you even bother asking her? Sounds like you quit halfway." Su said as she shrugged.

"Nope. I took one look at her and Salem and knew I was defeated."

The sound of sniffling drew his attention away from Cleo and to Alicia.

"Whoa! What's wrong Alicia?"

"It's just…it's just…stories like these get me all teary-eyed," She cried.

"You can borrow my hanky." Kooh said as she offered the item.

"That's pretty rough Axle," Ken said.

"You mean me piecing out or getting shot down?"

"Both?"

The Blader shrugged. "You know what they say, first come first serve."

"That's a shitty analogy for romance," Su sighed.

"And it doesn't exactly hold true in terms of guilds either…" Thee added.

"Both of you can shut your traps! Who's telling the story here?!" Axle snarled.

"Better luck next time Ax!" Kooh said with a grin.

He gave a dry chuckle as he looked into the distance.

"Next time huh?"

He closed his eyes as he placed his fingers to his chin thoughtfully.

"I'll cross that bridge when I get to it. For the time being, I've gotta make the best of getting to boss around my cute subordinates for a day!"

He wrapped his arm around Ken's neck.

"Do your best, Axle," Cleo whispered under her breath.

Kooh silently smiled both at the sound and sight.

"Alright, the tent's up and ready to go! Time to march men!" Axle shouted as he gestured to the tent. "What about you José? There's enough room for all of us."

"You kids go ahead. I'll sleep in the caravan." José answered before he waved them off and climbed inside.

Ken and Thee climbed into the tent but TJ was nowhere to be seen. The Blader scanned the area and caught a glimpse of him, fast asleep and gently leaning against the guild master. Though it was late, Peorth continued her illustrations-albeit slower than she previously had, but diligently nonetheless.

"Hey Boss, what're you still doing awake?" Axle asked as he approached. "The girls had gone to bed quite some time ago."

"Since TJ had fallen asleep, I did not wish to move him. He seems…comfortable." Peorth answered in her regular tone.

"You know, if you stay like that both of you are gonna catch a chill." The blader said with a laugh. "Knowing you, chances are you wouldn't move until he wakes up."

"That statement does hold some truth to it…" She placed her pencil down and placed a finger to her lips thoughtfully.

"That statement is just down right concerning. I'll take care of this guy so you can get up."

"You have my gratitude."

He picked up the Abellan and placed his torso over his shoulder. "No problem Boss. See you in the morning."

"Good night, Axle."

The following day the group began their journey anew, and as it continued on through the afternoon and into the evening they neared Lemanin.

"We're almost there guys. If you wanna take a glimpse just part the curtains near the front." José told them all.

The Angels and Powers all clamoured to get a look of the Haven and wound up toppling over each other as Peorth parted the curtains.

In the distance the group could see the Haven Lemanin. Massive temples were scattered about the mountains along with houses reminiscent of those in Yong Gyoung. Towering pillars stood sentry before much of the buildings along with gates in an unfamiliar language. Plenty of people came and went throughout the streets and traded wares, while a few caravans came and went. The entire Haven was surrounded by clouds and basked in the heights of the mountainous region.

"It looks amazing!" TJ shouted excitedly as he leaned over Peorth to get a better look.

"First time you've come to a Haven ain't it?" The guild master asked with a grin.

He nodded sheepishly. "Yeah…just heard talk of them but to finally see one for myself…is it really all Cerebians here?"

"Nothin' but." Axle answered with a grin. "After you visit a few of them you'll get used to it."

"You've been to others before?" Ken asked with a hint of curiosity.

"Oh yeah. Bastion used to spend a lot of its time in Ramalda back in the day. I came here once on a quest. Didn't get to do too much sightseeing but I'm gonna change that!"

"Yer' duties come first Ax. If I find out ya' were slackin' I'll have ya' skinned alive," Peorth said.

"Have I ever told you I'm a man of duty? 'Cause I totally am. 100 percent."

"That's the spirit!" Kooh said with a smile.

Once the group arrived in the plaza José brought the caravan to a halt.

"Alright we're here ladies and gents. Thanks for riding, and try not to get into any trouble while you're here." Jose said to the group.

Each member of Yggdrasil gave their thanks as they disembarked from the caravan finally followed by Cleo.

Axle turned to the Blader with a thoughtful look.

"Now that we're here, what're you gonna do Cleo? You wanna tag along with us until you meet up with some of the others?" He asked.

"Hm? Oh, I'll be fine. I've already talked with my squad and we're all going to meet up in a bit. I appreciate the offer though!" Cleo answered with a smile.

"Alright, watch yourself out there. And say hi to the guys for me would ya'?"

She saluted him and he grinned.

"See you around Cleo."

"'Til next time Axle!"

At that she began to walk off.

Axle turned to the guild master.

"So what's next on our to-do list Boss?"

It was hard to tell due to her fake glasses, but she seemed to be peering about cautiously before she decided to speak.

"Our first order of business will to be establish a headquarters. I would recommend that we visit the Inn so that we may offload our equipment.

"Following that, there will still be some time before we must assemble for the summit. You may consider it free time if you wish, so once our staying conditions are established you shall all be dismissed." She placed a finger to her lips thoughtfully. "Axle, do you have the current time?"

"It's about four 'o clock."

She nodded solemnly. "I see. TJ, Kooh, we shall have free time for about an hour, and use the final hour to make preparations. You know your given tasks, so once prepared we shall go to the grand hall together.

"Axle, your team may take up to an hour and a half, but following that I would like you to immediately peruse the perimeter. By that point, the other guilds' members should be patrolling also, so do not be alarmed if you should run into them. Confirming their guild and rank, should you have doubts, will provide you some clarity."

"Aye aye."

"With that said, let us proceed to the Inn. I had reservations prepared ahead of time."

Following Peorth's lead the group made their way through the Haven while taking in the sights. There were magnificent statues of mythical creatures and stalls selling all sorts of food and merchandise. TJ looked around with a fondness for all there was, and an odd feeling of belonging. Though he was not a Cerebian per se, being among many gave him a homely feeling. It reminded him of the first time he had stepped into the Guild Room, basked in the ambient mana and the aura of his comrades in his arms.

"You look positively happy to be alive TJ." Thee said with a grin.

"Hehe…think so? I've just got a great feeling here. It's like a city in the clouds…it's just so beautiful." He answered with a grin.

"There are very few Havens on Jienda, but I hope that you will get to see them all someday." Peorth added as she removed her fake glasses and put on her real pair. "Each has a very distinct charm of its own, all while bearing some ties to the Human city it stands sentry to."

"They're a sight for sore eyes. Especially Ramalda. Wouldn't believe how many times I thought I was seeing a mirage when I tried to find that place." Axle muttered with an exasperated expression.

The group made their way up a couple of flights of stairs and came to another massive crimson building with a pair of tall crimson doors. Upon both were a pair of door knockers in bronze.

The guild master reached out to one, but instead opted out for pushing the door. At her touch it slowly opened and she lead her companions in.

The interior was gorgeous-the moment they stepped in they were met with a long red carpet that lead right to a stairwell to the upper floors. A second carpet ran from one side of the room to the other, each leading down a different hallway where cheerful voices rang out. The entrance had beautiful paintings hanging on the wall of various sceneries and on the ground potted plants. The very walls themselves were adorned with all sorts of beautiful designs such as creatures and patterns. Even the inn was a sight to behold.

"I have retrieved our room keys, so let us make haste." Peorth said as she showed them the items.

Peorth was as diligent as ever. While TJ was taking in everything in sight she kept her cool and collected demeanour. He could not help but wonder if it was because she was familiar with the scenery, or because that just was the way she was on a normal basis.

As they made their way up the staircase Peorth continued.

"I have only rented two rooms since any more would be beyond our party's limits. I can assure you that they are big enough to accommodate each respective group. Those being, our separate genders. TJ, Thee, Axle and Ken, you will be in the room across from our own. The other will be Kooh, Alicia, Suuba and myself. We must share the beds, but they are more than large enough for two or more."

"It's a little nostalgic, doing something like that." TJ said with a grin.

How long had it been since he had to share a bed with Trinidell? It was a different location and with some new friends, but thinking back to those times made him somewhat happy. He had grown so much since then.

Axle gave him a questioning gaze.

"You shared a bed with someone? You didn't get a leg up on us did you TJ?! You're younger than me and you got some already? Traitor!" He grabbed him and violently shook him.

"It…wasn't…like…that!" TJ cried as his head bobbed.

Thee walked over with a dark shadow cast over his face. He placed a single hand to TJ's shoulder as he raised his head.

"Explain and your pride as a man might be spared," He said.

"I just shared a room with another guy! We didn't have enough for two then!"

Both of them took their hands off of his shoulders. The former rubbed the back of his neck as he laughed heartily, while the latter crossed his arms and nodded with approval.

"Was that it? You should've said so from the beginning," Axle laughed.

"There wasn't enough time for that," He sighed.

"Stop teasing TJ you guys." Alicia chuckled as she looked back.

Peorth did not slow down in her stride but her face, right up to her ears, were flushed.

The guild master stopped at rooms 350 and 351. She handed one of the two keys to Axle before she approached the former.

"We shall reconvene here briefly.

"I shall leave that in your care, Axle." The guild master said before she unlocked the door. "Come along ladies."

"I'm gonna sit that out," Su said.

While Alicia and Kooh stepped into the room the guild master looked back with a puzzled look.

"Is there a problem?"

"Plenty. But I've got better things to do than getting into semantics with you."

She grinned as she turned away.

"Besides, I've got a walking talking house right here, with way more space than that crammed closet they call a room. Later losers!"

At those words she turned into a series of spheres and returned to the Heart of Yggdrasil.

"You know," TJ began, "despite how used to that I am, when you put it like that I feel weird."

"Ohh princess," She answered from within.

"Can she see out of that thing? It'd be weird if she saw us all changing, don't you think?" Ken asked as he knit his brows.

"You're a man aren't you? Afraid that I'm gonna peep on you?" She snorted. "If it's that much of a problem I'll step out for you boys."

TJ looked down at his gem with a puzzled expression. At every word it seemed to light up and her voice seemed loud enough to reach the others, judging by their shocked expression.

"I didn't even know she could do that." Axle said as he furrowed his brows.

"That…makes two of us…" The Abellan muttered as he placed both hands to his chest.

"I'm just feeling downright emasculated," Thee groaned.

"Well then…" Peorth said as she let go of the door and it closed behind her.

"Alright boys, let's get to it! Go, go, go!" Axle opened the door and gestured for them all to hurry in.

The door to the girls' room opened once more and Peorth appeared from within.

"I have a request, Axle," She said.

"Sure Boss. What do you need me to do?"

"Could you…perhaps help TJ along with his identity crisis? We have had some influence on him, but I would like for him to understand all sides of the spectrum. In doing so, he may find a greater sense of clarity as to what is most comfortable for him."

The Blader grinned. "So you want me to make him feel like one of the boys? You got it!"

She smiled as the door slowly closed. "You have my gratitude."

He chuckled as he shook his head. "These two are really something else."

TJ looked around the room with awe. There were two gigantic beds, two bathrooms, a huge dresses with a mirror attached and a night table by each bed. There was even a couch big enough for maybe three or four of them. He thought of throwing himself on to the bed, but in front of everyone else he could not bring himself to do something that embarrassing. Peorth's bed was an exception.

"Thee!" Axle shouted and alerted all the guys.

"What's up Cap?" The Warrior asked as he looked over TJ's shoulder.

"We're taking the Abellan hostage!"

"W-what?!" TJ shouted as he looked at the two.

"O-okay?"

Thee and Axle charged at him. The Blader lifted him by his arms and the Warrior by his legs.

"On three!" Axle began as he swung him to and fro. "One…two…three!"

The two hurled him onto one of the beds and he landed with a gentle sound.

His face remained buried in the sheets before he raised his head so his eyes peered over the bed.

"That was completely uncalled for." He muttered into the sheets.

"It's a dog-eat-dog world out there bud. You'll get used to it." Axle said with a grin.

"I feel alive!" Thee said with a demonic grin.

"Dog pile!"

The two threw themselves on top of the Abellan and he let out an exasperated and pained groan.

"You guys are heavy," He groaned.

"What're you waiting for Ken? Get over here! Captain's orders!"

Ken knit his eyebrows.

"Isn't that power harassment? Or abuse or something?"

"I live by a no rules lifestyle. Now then, better move before you wind up next!"

Ken took his hat off and set it down on the dresser.

"I don't get paid enough to do this."

After a short while the girls exited their room and met with the boys. Axle leaned against the wall with a satisfied grin, Ken wore a guilty expression, Thee remained doubled over with a hand to his back and TJ sat against the floor, as if his spirit had left his body.

"The summit hasn't even started and you guys have already exhausted yourselves?" Alicia asked with a look of disbelief.

"We've got energy to spare," Axle said.

"That makes…one of us…" TJ muttered.

"Must be fun being a guy huh?" Kooh asked as she stepped out of the room and stretched.

"You can be an honourary guy if you really want to. Just can't guarantee your safety." The Blader said with a devilish grin.

She laughed. "Are you still mad about the pajama party Ax? We can have another with you if you like! But the offer isn't changing."

"Come now you two," Peorth said, "let us remain civil amidst our comrades."

The two agreed simultaneously while TJ struggled to his feet.

"Now then, I take it that you have all finished your business since you are here now. As discussed, there are no current objectives that need be fulfilled, so you may all browse the Haven as you see fit. All I ask is that you do not forget your duties when the time approaches. Axle, I expect you to regroup with your party at that time."

"Of course."

TJ blinked solemnly, thoughtfully. Axle had a playful nature to him like Kooh, but when those two got serious they felt like completely different people. Was that one of the qualities of a leader?

He thought back to the time he was in charge of the Pharaoh's Chambers Investigation Party and wondered how he fared as a leader. What could he learn from those two? If Peorth had entrusted another mission to him, what would he do differently than last time? Would he succeed as a leader, or put his party in danger?

After encountering Choen Palm again, it reminded him that the threat of death still lingered over all of their heads. If it were not for Peorth, he may have met a gruesome end along with his companions.

That thought aside, of any of them Peorth had all the qualities, along with the title of guild master, queen and proxy. He would study her mannerisms, her choices, her actions, and aim to learn from them. The summit would certainly be a good opportunity to do just that.

"Given that knowledge…I suppose there is naught left for me to say. Yggdrasil, dismissed!"

"Let's roll Thee. I hear the Havens have their own take on Yong Gyoung style grub and I've got a hankering," Axle said.

"W-wait! I'm coming too!" Alicia shouted while she ran after the two.

"You've got a pretty big appetite for such a small girl," Thee remarked.

She hit and shushed him for his comment.

"I'm gonna go look at the weapons and armour shops. See you guys later." Ken said as he walked away and waved.

"What are your plans TJ?" The guild master asked.

"Me? None really." He muttered as he scratched his cheek. "To be honest, if I went off on my own I'd probably just wind up getting lost."

The guild master nodded solemnly.

"If you would like, you are welcome to join Kooh and I. Though it may not be to your tastes, we are going to look at a few clothing stores."

"If there's at least two of us we might be able to convince Princess to wear a quipao!" Kooh said with her usual cheerfulness.

TJ laughed. "I dunno about that, but I'd appreciate the company."

"The guild master smiled slightly. "Then let us be on our way. Perhaps we will find something fitting for you, TJ."

He gasped. "I'm gonna be honest with you Chief, I don't think dressing up or being dressed up is really my thing."

The trio stood inside of a small, gently lit shop within the Haven. A couple of windows let sunbeams come in from the entrance and along the shop's walls. At the front sat a store clerk with her violet hair tied in a side-tail. She wore a black tank top with a grey sweater tied around her waist.

The shop was a small square building with a series of racks with all sorts of clothes, mostly casual types, including sweaters, shirts, jeans and cargo pants.

TJ picked up a yellow shirt and stared at the characters imprinted upon it with a puzzled look. He had certainly seen them all over, but nothing in his memories could make them out. Perhaps it was not something he had learned prior to losing them.

"Curious?" Kooh asked as she walked up to him. "It says 'BOSS' on it." She grinned.

He turned his puzzled look to the God's Governor. "You can read this language?" He asked.

"Of course! I have to carry out missions all over Jienda! Knowing a few languages is nothing!"

"That makes sense."

The Abellan could not help but wonder if that was one of the requirements to becoming one of Peorth's Keruz. Good leadership, speaking multiple languages, knowing the 'Calling' ability. He knit his brows as he sighed. It was more difficult than he could have begun to imagine. He was only a Tronz, and there were two more ranks he needed to ascend if he wanted to become a Keruz…but if he could then he would not only be a better person, but also one of Peorth's most trusted allies. He clenched his fist with a renewed resolve.

"You look fired up TJ! But if you do that you'll rumple the shirt." The God's Governor laughed.

"Eh? Ahh…"

He attempted to put the shirt back on the rack and smoothed it out afterwards, both poorly done. It would have to suffice. He eyed the clerk and noticed that she was still looking out the window, so he took the opportunity to skulk off to Peorth's side with Kooh following closely behind.

"What're you looking for Chief?"

"I would prefer something light…suitable for training, but also durable. At times it can be so rigorous that the clothes are worn out or destroyed in the process. It is a shame, really. Many great pieces of clothing had fallen up to this point, and I would rather not risk any more." She answered as she picked up a tank top and stretched it slightly.

The Abellan laughed gently. What was that word the girls used to describe her? Militaristic? As strange as it was, he could not help but see it as a charming fact about her.

"You should let me pick them for you Princess. I've got a pretty good eye for clothes you know." Kooh said as she pursed her lips.

"That is true but…our tastes vary…greatly." The queen looked embarrassed as she muttered the final words.

"Who said you can't look good and be productive at the same time?"

TJ gave her a wary glance. "That sounds like something Bonnie would say," He muttered.

"Ah TJ you met Bonnie?! She's great right? I have her do my hair once in a while and we talk for hours."

He sighed gently. "She's the one who gave me this hair. At least, the way it was before you did it up in that one style. She and Marin are scary when they get serious."

He looked around the store with quick glances.

"Leaving that aside, you mentioned it earlier but what is a quipao anyway? Is it some kind of outfit?"

"It's a dress," The God's Governor answered. "I saw some over there. Come on you two!"

She took both of her companion's hands and brought them further into the store where a rack with the outfits rested.

The Abellan looked on in awe. They were there in a variety of colours and designs. There were ornate designed embroidered into each one, and they also came in differing sizes. He could not see himself in one, but he admired them nonetheless.

"So? How about it?"

"Huh?!" He looked at her with shock. "O-oh…they're nice. I'd bet you two would look beautiful in them." He smiled.

Kooh blinked and Peorth averted her eyes as her cheeks flushed.

"A-ahh…what'd I just say?" TJ covered his face as he turned away.

"You heard him Princess. Why not give it a try?" Kooh asked with a grin.

"N-no…I could not…"

The God's Governor pursed her lips. "There's no need to be shy around him Princess. He's seen you in your pajamas before. Besides, it's not everyday you can get someone else's opinion on clothes like this. Live a little!"

She still seemed unsure, but her expression seemed to be relenting.

"Tell you what, if you put one on TJ and I will too. That way, you won't have to be embarrassed about it!"

"H-hang on this is a bad plan! I'll be embarrassed," TJ cried defensively.

"If that is the case…perhaps…" The guild master looked to one of the dresses thoughtfully with a clenched hand to her chest.

She was definitely, definitely thinking about putting one on, but she had her own reservations about it. When she looked at it with such a vulnerable expression it was hard to remain stalwart against such a wish.

Kooh looked to the Abellan and winked, to which he frowned slightly.

"Why not just do it? What've you got to lose anyway? I mean, I'll still laugh at you, but better to do something and regret doing it, than not do it and wish you had later," Su said from within the gem.

"Thanks for the pep talk." TJ muttered as he furrowed his brows.

"Soo? How about it?" Kooh asked with a twinkle in her eye.

"F-fine. Just this once…just…'cause."

"Yay!"

He shuffled through the outfits with a keen curiosity. He would not tell them, but he was not entirely against giving them a try. He typically wore the same clothes throughout his journey because of their durability and effects, so shopping for clothes and trying on new ones was…fun. The outfits he saw here reminded him of those he had seen in Yong Gyoung also. From those during the beginning of his journey, and some now.

He had stopped at a sky blue quipao with gold embroidering in the shape of dragons and clouds. He took it out and looked it over. Perhaps it would not hurt to give it a try, at least.

The girls picked out theirs and made their way to the changing stalls, and TJ followed behind furtively glancing around the room in case any other shoppers came by. He opened the door to the stall and slipped inside quickly and quietly before he placed it down on the bench before him.

He slipped out of his top and took off his boots and pants before he took a deep breath. He eyed the binding on his chest and gently placed a hand to the Heart of Yggdrasil. It was always there, but he had hardly ever noticed its presence. It felt so…natural. As he mused about it, he could not help but think of what grand adventures awaited him in the future. Comparing those to what he did now, he did not feel as embarrassed as he once did. Perhaps he should let loose and enjoy himself for once?

He picked up the dress and slipped his head through followed by his arms. He inspected the outfit from all sides. It was light, airy, and easy to move in. In fact, it was rather comfortable at that. His chest did not feel as restricted as it was with his regular top either, which was a refreshing change.

He opened the door to the stall and stepped out before he stood by one of the racks and waited for the others.

His gem lit up and Su emerged. Her cheeks were flushed and she grinned devilishly before she let out a snort. Following that, she burst out into laughter and TJ frowned at her response.

"Oh man I wish I could take a picture of this!" She said through her laughter. "Priceless!"

He covered his chest with one hand and a part of his thighs with the other.

"Yeah, yeah laugh it up," He muttered under his breath.

Kooh and Peorth stepped out then and closed the doors behind them. Kooh wore a crimson dress with golden roses designed on it, while Peorth wore a green one with white lilies spread throughout.

TJ looked on in awe and Peorth looked back before she smiled gently with flushed cheeks.

"Such an outfit is befitting of you, TJ. Dressing up every now and again is something I, personally, think would be a wonderful idea," Peorth said.

"I agree," Kooh added. "Both of you look super cute! I approve!" She gave them both a thumbs-up. "How about yo-"

"No." Su said before she returned to the gem.

"She'll come around eventually. Juuuust a matter of time."

Her patience was incredible, but her mental fortitude was even more so. If she responded to him like that all of the time, he would feel hurt sooner rather than later.

"So TJ! Whaddya think? Great right?"

"Hm?" He looked startled. "It's uhh…it's nice…I suppose?" He began to sweat.

He could not help but notice that Peorth's was longer-it extended further down her legs and he felt his embarrassment increase tenfold. What a poor choice he had made in his haste.

"If you look so much even I will feel a hint of bashfulness," The guild master said under her breath.

He had no regrets.

He had acquired some regret before their trip was over. Kooh had talked the two of them into buying the dresses. The trio made their way back through the inn as TJ sighed gently. Kooh looked as if she was glowing-she had came out with quite a haul, and Peorth had found some good clothes she could use for her training.

The Abellan could not help but wonder how she destroyed her clothes by exercising, but he had been through some of her 'basic' exercises so he could not begin to fathom what the more advanced ones were like.

"We shall reconvene here once we are prepared. Excuse us." Peorth said as she opened the door and Kooh stepped in while waving, followed by Peorth.

"Sure," TJ answered.

The realization dawned upon him that he did not have a key to the room and he froze up. Where was Axle when he needed him? He tapped his badge twice.

[Guild]TJ: Axle, can you bring the room key? I need to get changed for the summit.

[Guild]Axle: Locked out huh? Haha, sorry about that! Guess I didn't think that part through. Ken's on his way back to drop off a few things so he should be there in a few.

[Guild]TJ: I'm saved!

[Guild]Thee: Since you're getting ready now, I guess you guys are headed out soon huh? We should probably accompany them there.

[Guild]Axle: You think someone in Lemanin is gonna try and jump the Abio Rangers? They'd have to be pretty ballsy to do that.

[Guild]Thee: That-that's not what I'm concerned about!

TJ laughed gently at the banter between the two. If anyone tried to fight Peorth or Kooh, they would be in for the worst kind of surprise.

[Guild]Thee: We might be…you know, here to patrol and stuff, but we still have to make sure that they get there safely.

[Guild]Axle: Then we should've followed them while they were shopping.

[Guild]Thee: …

[Guild]TJ: But wasn't it your idea to get food, Axle?

[Guild]Axle: Whoa! Busted!

[Guild]Thee: TJ's got you there.

[Guild]Axle: Alright, alright I yield. We'll follow Ken and meet you guys in the lobby or something. Alicia's here too, so we'll box you guys in and make sure people aren't flocking to get your autograph.

[Guild]TJ: We're counting on you.

He looked down the hall and saw Ken approaching.

[Guild]TJ: Ken's here now, so I'm gonna go. Later guys!

[Guild]Thee: See you in a bit TJ.

[Guild]Axle: Peace!

"It's a good thing I was coming along, huh TJ? You might've been waiting a while if Axle had to bring the keys back." Ken said as he took the keys from his pocket.

"Tell me about it," The Abellan chuckled in turn.

Ken unlocked the door and the two entered. TJ made his way over to his bag and took out his suit. He got out of his usual outfit, or at least had removed his accessories before he stopped. Ken was standing right behind him. Could he really change with him right there?

"Don't tell me you're having second thoughts now. It's another dude. What're you so scared for?" Su asked.

"It's embarrassing…" TJ muttered to her.

"Never stopped you before, did it?"

He took his hands from his top and rubbed his chin thoughtfully. The other times, he was more or less forced into it. One of them may have been necessary, but the second time he was man-handled by Kooh.

"If you're a man, you're not supposed to be afraid to be seen by another one in the buff, dumbass.

"What's with your obsession for being manly anyway?"

He knit his brows. That was a really good question. Why did he try so hard to be masculine? What was the origin of his drive? It seemed to matter little to him in his memories on Asgard, so what had happened between then and his arrival on Midgard that had changed him?

"I…I dunno."

"Hm? What was that TJ?" Ken asked as he looked over his shoulder.

"N-nothing! Just talking to…myself."

"Seriously? I thought you'd be talking to Su." He laughed and TJ face-palmed.

He lacked a definitive answer to the question, and the reason eluded him. For what reason would he forget something like that? He forgot his name, his identity and many other things, but he still knew how to speak and do other basic things. Was there some method to his amnesia?

He shook his head rapidly to cast away the thoughts. He could not have his head in the clouds at such a time-he needed to focus on what he could do now, and that was to help Peorth through the challenges to come. He quickly slipped out of his outfit and into his suit but stopped as he eyed the tie. How on earth would he put on such a thing?

Ken had recently left as he said something about the lobby, but since TJ had his head elsewhere he had not processed it.

He made his way to the mirror and tried a variety of ways to put the bow on, ultimately failing.

"You're really useless sometimes, you know that?" Su asked as she emerged from the gem, her suit already on. "Gimme that." She took the bow from his hand and popped his collar. "Hold still for a sec' and lemme' do my job." She fixed up the bow and pulled the ends before nodding at her handiwork. "There. Now you don't look like shit. Now hurry up and get in that costume so we can get the hell out of here."

"Thanks Su." He said with a grin.

"Yeah, yeah whatever." She turned around and shrugged before she vanished.

He climbed into the Abio Red costume and looked to the helmet with resolve.

The time had come…to meet the Cerebians. To finally meet God's Governor of Wind, and set fate in motion. This day would change everything. His actions even more so. He put the helmet on and stepped out into the hallway.

"Wearing a suit under this suit makes it crazy hot," TJ muttered under his breath.

He wanted to wipe his brow but could not get to his face.

"Bear with it a little longer TJ, we'll be there soon," Kooh told him. He could not see her expression through the helmet, but her bubbly voice carried through nonetheless.

"I expected it, but we're getting an awful lot of looks." Thee said as he looked back at the staring crowds.

"Just tell yourself they're fans and it's not so bad," Axle suggested.

TJ took some solace in the idea.

"It feels like we're an entourage," Alicia chuckled.

"You know, in a sense we are an entourage." Ken added with a grin.

"Let's try not to act too suspicious though. Avoid the furtive glances or too much staring. We'll only draw more attention to ourselves. The wrong kind at that." Thee said as he looked around with a smile.

"If there's a culprit to be found, better not to scare him off by showing we're on to him," Axle said.

They ascended a long, steep road up towards a massive building. As they neared they could see a few people entering, a young lady at the door and a certain barista with a certain green brownie.

"I'd say it couldn't be, but those two are unmistakable." TJ said with a dry laugh.

"They're all dressed up this time though," Alicia added.

Vanir wore a black tailcoat with matching pants, a hat, and dress shoes with white socks. Skuld wore a green dress with white frills underneath the skirt and in the sleeves, matching dress shoes and a hat that rested on a small portion of her head with a veil attached.

"Vanir? What're you doing here?" TJ asked as they approached.

"Wah…that's pretty cold Kid. I might not be a Cerebian or have a guild but I didn't think that meant I shouldn't be here." He answered with a mock offended look.

"I didn't mean it like that." He pursed his lips.

"Of course you didn't." Vanir grinned and he frowned in turn. "Anyway, I've got a stake in this too so I'm here as a guest of Bastion." He eyed the trio.

"Since you lot are here and dressed like that, I take it you're going to put that plan into action huh?"

"Indeed," Peorth answered.

He looked at her incredulously. "I thought you'd be in the red costume. Why are you green?"

"I really like blue," Kooh answered.

"Uh-huh…well, that's not important. I need to talk to you for a sec' Queenie. You guys don't mind if I borrow her right?"

Axle and Thee stepped out from the side of their companions and drew their weapons on the barista.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! What's with the hostilities guys?!" He raised both hands in surrender.

"Lower your weapons Axle, Thee. He is not a danger," Peorth told them.

"You can never be too safe Boss. Making such a request now could easily make a lot of people out to be after your life." Axle told her as he sheathed his blades.

"I have to agree with Axle. I can sense the aura of a Confidant around him but…I'd rather draw first then let you be in any sort of danger." Thee added as he too sheathed his broadsword.

"I respect and appreciate your diligence, but I shall be fine on my own. Now then, if you would excuse me…" She walked off and Vanir followed.

"I'll be back in a flash. Look after Skuld would you?"

"Kiku?!" Skuld cried out as she watched Vanir walk off.

Vanir leaned against the building as Peorth stopped walking and turned to him.

"I know I was the one who had suggested it, but are you sure you wanna do this Queenie? It's not too late to change your mind," The barista said.

She gently shook her head. "My mind is made. Another opportunity to unite the Cerebians may not come again." She began as she removed her helmet. "To have the guild masters here on this day may have been by the blessing of the gods themselves, and I have no intention to let it go to waste.

"For my people, for Jienda, and for the Abellan, I will go forward with confidence. To hesitate is to put all of us at risk. If they will accept me, I will guide them. They need a leader as much as I need followers. Together, and only through this can we defeat Agasura King Asmodeus."

"Man you're impossible when you've got your mind set on something." He rolled his visible eye.

She grinned slightly. "Kooh had described it as…one of my 'good points'."

"I'm sure that's not the only thing she's described as a good point."

He sighed. "Seriously though, you can still change your fate. If you go this path I don't think there will be any turning back afterwards."

She shook her head once more. "I appreciate your concern, but come whatever may, I will face my fate. Whatever happens to me, so long as TJ can go forward, that is all that matters."

She reached into her pocket and replaced her glasses with the fake pair.

"Now but once more, I will don the disguise Belldandy, but from then on, she will be no more. Only Peorth Emeria Ásvaŕtlim will remain.

"We shall speak again anon."

At those words she put on the helmet and walked away.

Vanir sighed audibly. "Gods! I know I'm the one that set her on this path but why is it so hard to diverge?! Stupid slight changes hardly changed anything." He stroked his hair. "Guess I'll have to make the best of it. But man what a pain…"

The pair returned while the group was flocked around Vanir's brownie, all of them talking animatedly.

"Alright Skuld, let's head inside and take our seats before the party starts," Vanir said.

She emerged from the crowd and took his hand before the two walked past the lady on guard.

"We shall be fine from here on out everyone. You may begin your patrols if you so desire," Peorth told the others.

"Good luck in there Boss," Axle said.

"Break a leg!" Alicia said as she waved.

"If you get nervous, just imagine everyone to be veggies. Giant talking veggies." Thee said with an affable smile.

"We'll make sure everything goes well you guys, so hang in there." Ken said as he saluted them.

Peorth turned to TJ. "Allow me to brief you on our course of action." She said and he nodded in response. "Kooh will go first. She will sneak inside and turn off the lights. At that moment, you and I will follow after. When I give you the signal, all you need to do is pose. Kooh and I will handle everything else."

TJ nodded solemnly. It was a strange plan, but he had little doubt that Peorth did not know what she was doing. He would put his trust in her here too.

The guild master approached the lady on guard and showed her three invitations as she spoke in an unfamiliar language. The guard spoke in the same language and nodded before the guild master turned to Kooh.

"Alright, here goes!" Kooh said as she raised a finger skyward. She clapped her hands together and a wave of mist surrounded her before she vanished.

The door suddenly creaked open just a bit and the sound of footsteps died down amidst the voices of the people within. The light suddenly turned off and surprised gasps and fearful voices followed after.

"TJ, it is time. Let us begin." Peorth told him before she made her way towards the door.

He nodded and followed her inside, and the door closed after him. The room was completely enveloped in darkness, and the sound of voices was the only thing that cut through it all.

"Here TJ. You may begin."

At those words he took his place at Peorth's flank and struck a pose like one of the Abio Rangers. The sound of Kooh's footsteps drew his attention, and it was followed by the sound of something rolling across the floor.

A small canister at TJ's feet began releasing a red smoke. It was followed by a second with blue and finally one with green. As the only source of light within the room, a multitude of voices spoke out.

"It's the Abio Rangers!"

"Did someone order entertainment?"

"It's interesting! I'm in!"

"Rei-Rei, check it out!"

"Lessa, shh!"

"This is certainly a surprise!"

"I love you Abio Red!"

The lights turned on while Kooh's arm quickly lowered.

Peorth stopped posing and raised her hands to her helmet before she took it off.

"Guild master Belldandy?"

"Didn't think she was an Abio Ranger."

"This is just getting weirder by the minute."

"Did I surprise ya'll?" Peorth asked as she grinned. "Figured there wasn't a better way to kick off the guild master's summit than with an interestin' surprise for you lot. But the real fun's just about to get started!

"Kooh, TJ, let's give 'em a show!"

"You got it Princess!" Kooh clenched a fist and opened it, palm outwards. A tome, the sign of the Keruz appeared before her and vanished before she removed her helmet. She had snow white hair and her ruby sclera had turned blue.

"Abide by the words of my contract and give me the strength to become the hope of this world!" TJ clasped his hands together and removed his helmet following Kooh in action and appearance.

"Release, Memorius Sanctum!" Peorth shouted and the gilded tome appeared before her as her appearance changed also.

She removed her glasses and put on her real pair before she closed the tome and it vanished.

"It is time that all of you find out the truth of my identity. I am not guild master Belldandy. My true identity is Peorth Emeria Ásvaŕtlim. Proxy to Her Grace Amae, daughter of Remedi Ásvaŕtlim, contractor to the Abellan, and reigning queen of Asgard."

There was silence. All of the guild masters and their companions looked on incredulously, some in disbelief, others in utter shock.

"It is said that there are very few, if any Cerebians that can achieve such a state. Before you to my left, stands my Keruz and cousin Kooh. To my right is the Abellan, TJ.

"I understand that you are all in disbelief. But I ask that you neither bow down, nor oust us, but instead hear us out for a time."

She turned to a young man who stood at a desk near the entrance and said something to him to which he closed his agape mouth and nodded.

"This way, TJ." Kooh told him as the young man guided them towards an empty table and Peorth made her way to the stage at the far end of the hall.

Once there, she continued, "When Asgard fell, many lives were lost, including those of my own soldiers and people. I am aware of your losses, and I assure you not a one has been forgotten. Many of you, to this very day have likely believed that I too, had fallen in that battle, and to see me standing here may be nothing short of impossible. But with all confidence I can assure you that I am exactly who I claim to be.

"But it is not just your approval that I seek, nor your loyalty. I must ask that you stand by me as my equals. I…no, Midgard and Asgard have need of your aid. I am sure you are all aware, but everyday we spend fighting is a day closer to the arrival of Agasura King Asmodeus. This is a battle that we alone cannot fight, so I ask that you all join hands and come together as brothers and sisters in arms. Reach out to your companions from across the lands and join forces to overcome a threat that challenges both Cerebian and Mankind alike.

"With your strength, courage, and hopes we will quell this age-old battle of eld and finally put a stop to the Agasura once and for all. I understand that it is a daunting task, and one that I will not accuse you of wrongdoing should you have reservations, but to those willing, I ask that you lend us your power.

"With that, with you, we can form the Guild Union. By bringing our guilds together, we may come to each others' aid in times of crisis and develop better communication amongst each other.

"Alas, with the appearance of the Seven Sinners happening across Midgard, it is imperative that Yggdrasil knows when and where their Instance Dungeons arise. TJ is the only one that can defeat the Guardians and destroy the Instance Dungeons, and due to the appearance the Sinners have taken, much of Humanity and Cerebian kind have taken him to be a murderer.

Peorth bowed down. "I beg of you, of all of you. Lend us your ears, your aid and your arms. Fight for this cause, for the hope of everyone. If you have your reservations about my presence, I will understand, but choose not to fight because I ask this of you, but because the world needs you to. Let the truth come to light. Aid the Abellan in his journey, and I promise you that with my own life I will see to it that we end this war.

"For your time, you have my gratitude."

At those words Peorth stepped down to thunderous applause and shouts of approval.

"Everyone's going wild Chief. Even I'm fired up by your speech." TJ said with a smile.

"Thank you, TJ. Your praise is unwarranted, but I am thankful nonetheless." She said as she smiled slightly.

"But let us not meander. There are many guild masters we must introduce you to, and that I need to personally apologize to. Will you join me?"

"Yeah, of course!" He said as he got up.

He turned to Kooh. "You're not coming along Kooh?"

She waved off the suggestion. "Nah, you two go on ahead. I didn't have a hidden identity or anything, so they all know me already. I'll be around the hall somewhere if you need me though."

"If you say so."

At those words TJ and Peorth made their way to meet the other guild masters.

As they walked through the hall, TJ looked around with a keen curiosity. Now that he could see, he saw the whole hall for what it was. There were windows all over with transparent tan curtains-the stage was mahogany with a crimson curtain resting behind it. Tables were scattered throughout the hall with white cloths covering each, and tags in the center of them with the name of the guild it was reserved for. There was bread, cups and utensils laid out upon each, and in the far corner of the room there were tables with a variety of foodstuffs prepared for the summit.

Peorth stopped at one of the tables and shook hands with the guild master.

TJ did a double-take as he realized it was Eli, but this time dressed up in a violet pinstripe suit with a matching top hat, pants, and a curved brown cane in his hand. His crimson hair was tied in a ponytail.

"It is a pleasure to see that you are doing well Eli," Peorth told him.

She lowered her head apologetically. "I must ask your forgiveness for deceiving you."

He gestured for her to calm down. "Whoa, whoa, don't worry about that. True, it was a surprise, but you wouldn't be running around advertising yourself as our queen now would you? That'd be pretty reckless."

He scratched the back of his neck. "Still…standing toe-to-toe with you isn't really my style either. Haven't looked up to a superior in years, but this is a whole different case. Should I refer to you as 'Your Highness'? Or do you prefer 'Your Grace'? I dunno…I'm not really good with the formalities."

TJ felt a growing kinship with the guild master.

"Please, you need only address me as Peorth. You may see me as Belldandy if it eases the burden."

"Peorth huh?" He grinned as he closed his eyes. "Well I'll come around to it sooner or later. It's good to make your acquaintance, as a fellow guild master and a vassal."

Peorth did not respond to the statement, but something about her demeanour seemed to dampen slightly.

Eli turned to TJ and raised a hand. "TJ! It's good to see you again. How've you been?"

"Good," TJ answered. "I'm glad to see you're doing well too, Eli."

"That's probably thanks to you. I'd heard about some of the things you saw in the Pharaoh's Chambers and…whew, kinda glad I didn't step in there. One of Nia's members sent us the full report after they debriefed Amata. Giant snakes and Sinners? Definitely not my cup of tea."

TJ tilted his head quizzically. "Nia?"

"She's the guild master of Devotion. Amata's one of the members of that guild."

He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Speaking of, I take it that the one who picked out the party for that was Peorth?"

"That is correct," The queen answered.

"So that's what she meant by one of the higher-ups. Makes sense."

"Chief always picks out the right members for the occasion. I dunno where we'd be without her."

"You flatter me." Peorth said as her cheeks flushed a gentle pink.

Eli gave TJ a couple pats on the shoulder. "You two are pretty close huh? That's what I like to see. Look after the queen would ya'? And Peorth, I'll leave the Abellan in your hands too."

"I shall protect him with my life." She answered with a hand to her chest.

"D-don't do that. I'm not okay with that." TJ answered as he waved his hands and shook his head.

The two went over to another table where a young lady with silver hair sat, accompanied by a young man with dark blue hair.

"Good day, guild master," Peorth said.

The girl stood up and shook Peorth's hand. Her eyes were a muted grey, but her smile made it up. She had sharp features, her bangs hung on each side of her face but she had an informal charm to her. She wore a blue-sleeveless, lace bodice gown and a silver bracelet with a rose design atop it. She also wore a pair of studded earrings.

"Man you really got us good there Peorth." She said with an affable grin. "Didn't think any of the nobles had a sense of humour, but you really pulled a fast one on us.

"Was that accent of yours fake? I'm hearing it now but I can't believe your real voice is that different."

"It was an act, yes. I apologize for my actions."

She laughed. "No need to be sorry! You did what you had to do, didn't you? The fact you got all of us is proof you did a damn good job of it. I'm impressed!"

She looked over Peorth's shoulder to TJ who looked startled. "So this is the Abellan huh? I'd heard Reina's stories about him and whatnot, but I never thought he'd be real. Cute kid-guess he's not just a fairy tale huh?"

"I'm TJ…and I'm real. Can't say that I'm not entirely sure about being the Abellan, but I think there's more than enough proof for all of us." He answered with a smile.

She laughed again. "You've got a pretty good sense of humour TJ. You and I are gonna get along just fine, I bet." She pointed to herself with her thumb. "I'm Zosia, but everyone that knows me just calls me 'Z'."

She looked over to her companion and waved him over. As he got out of his seat a cordless jumped on to the table and onto his shoulder. TJ's eyes shot open and he drew his guitar instinctively.

"Whoa slow down there TJ! I'd rather you not beat my guild mate to a pulp." She said with a bead of sweat running down her face after taking point before the Abellan.

"There's a cordless…on his shoulder…" The Abellan muttered as he eyed the television robot.

"It's alright, he's friendly. The Cerebian might bite though."

"Hilarious," The man sighed as he approached. He was a tall fellow with a very focused expression and deep blue eyes. He wore a grey suit, a vest beneath his jacket and a dress shirt and purple tie underneath that. He wore black laced dress shoes and a single glistening gem in his left ear.

"This is my partner-in-crime Rupert, and our mascot Cor." Z said as she held a hand out to the two.

"I'm glad that we finally meet, TJ. As Z said, I'm Rupert, the second and only other member of the only machinery guild on Jienda."

The cordless blinked and the screen turned blue revealing a set of letters that read 'Hello'.

"I-it talks!" TJ said with a look of surprise.

"Uh huh-we took one of those busted cordless, fixed it up and made a few modifications."

"So you guys fix machines?" TJ asked with a hint of curiosity.

There was a glint in Z's eye. "I'm glad you asked! We don't just fix machines, we build them. Those Atlantians gave both the Cerebians and Machinists alike a bad name, but when our guild gains a few more members and builds some renown, we're gonna paint over that canvas with glory!"

She unclenched her fist as she looked to him. "You probably don't have a good relationship with machines either, do you? Judging by the way you responded when you saw Cor, I take it you've been to Scrap Valley?" The Abellan nodded grimly. "Yeah…figures."

The guild master crossed her arms. "With all that's happened in the past, there aren't many Cerebians flocking to join our guild."

"By many, she means any," Rupert added.

"Oh shut it. That aside, we have to compete with the genius Master Berkhart. I hate her, but I respect her too. If she'd stop selling off her blueprints Scrap Valley wouldn't be infested with robots! Though I do have to hand it to her, using those very same things to create MGs was a stroke of genius. We need that kind of talent. If we had the funds, I'd bet we could make something that would convince even the Cerebians that machinery isn't the terrible destructive force they think it is. They can be used for good too, they just lack people to show them how."

"Though I believe we'll find a way, even if it's only the two of us. We've come far on Z's genius alone-if we band together with the other guilds, I'm sure we can advance our civilizations."

"You know how to say all the right things, don't you?" She asked with a grin.

"I'm here too," Cor's screen said.

"Don't worry, we haven't forgotten you."

She turned to TJ. "Well I've already talked your ear off. If you're ever in need of machinery or have some good ideas, send a mail to us in the City of Iron. I can tune up your guitar if you like. Lasers, drills, electric shocks? Maybe a sound amplification device…"

TJ shook his head. "N-no, that's okay. I think I'm fine with this the way it is."

"You sure? I'll do it for free!"

"Perhaps next time, Zosia. Thank you for your time." Peorth said as she gestured for TJ to follow.

She approached a group of three people at a table talking and waved to them.

The first of them to rise was a tall, broad, mountain of a man with bronzed skin, dark brown eyes and his long chestnut hair tied into dreadlocks. He wore a white suit, matching pants and dress shirt with black dress shoes and a blue and silver polka dot tie. His nose was pierced with a golden ring, and he had really thick eyebrows that made him look rather menacing. Or he was potentially menacing and the eyebrows added to that fact.

"Good day Emil. Thank you for coming to this summit on such short notice," Peorth began.

The man smiled, and the scary demeanour he had vanished in an instant. "Short notice? You kidding? You had those invitations out with time to spare!" He said as he laughed.

"Still, you really got me with that big reveal. To think that you were the reigning queen along…that was a hell of a surprise. The girls are still reeling in shock." Emil told her as he gestured to his comrades who laughed with each other. "Now before you can apologize, I'm gonna tell you not to. You made a smart move, doing that. If there was a mole among us, it'd be for the best if you didn't reveal yourself right off the bat, Given the current circumstances, I can see and understand why you did. You don't even need to ask, my guild is behind you. We'll make sure the Agasura are down and stay down."

"You have my thanks." She blinked slowly.

"Since you have no qualms with that, allow me to take the time to introduce you to my Tronz, the Abellan TJ."

"I-it's a pleasure!" TJ said stiffly as he walked over.

"So you're the Abellan huh? Nice to finally meet ya'!" Emil said as he held out a hand.

He's gonna crush me with that hand! It's humongous! TJ thought as he awkwardly reached out and placed his hand in Emil's.

As the two shook the guild master grinned. "I should properly introduce myself huh? I'm Emil, guild master to one of the most renown guilds in all of the Elfa region, Revolution. The girls over here are some of my highest ranking members, Kenia and Roxanne." He gestured to the two, and they waved back, one with an open palm and the other with her fingers.

Kenia was the shorter of the two with her forest green hair tied in a bun, golden eyes and a small smile. She wore a floral, knee-length scuba knit dress and a pearl necklace. Roxanne had carnation pink hair, green eyes and a coquettish smile. She wore a knee-length, black and plum, lace/sequin hearts dress. She had earrings also, but from the distance TJ could not make them out.

"What're you two being so shy for? You should at least come and introduce yourselves properly!" Emil shrugged as he turned to the two. "Sorry about this Peorth, TJ. These two aren't usually this odd around strangers, but I guess meeting the queen and the Abellan for the first time has them on guard. They're good kids though, so don't take their actions to heart."

"Think nothing of it," Peorth responded.

"It's alright. I'm not good with introductions either." TJ said with a laugh.

Emil grinned. "You're a good kid too, TJ. I'd be honoured to fight alongside you in the future."

"L-likewise!"

He nodded. "Well, I won't keep you two any longer. I'm sure there's plenty of people you've still gotta meet, so go and do your thing. The girls and I will be around, so if you wanna chat with me just come on over. Chances are I'll be by the punch bowl."

TJ smiled. "It was nice meeting you Emil." He looked scary, but he was a really nice guy. The Abellan felt a bit of guilt for having such expectations, but took the fact to heart, and reminded himself not to judge a book by it's cover.

As the two made their way through the hall a voice called out to them and stopped them in their tracks.

"Excuse me, may I have a moment?"

Peorth stopped and seemed to turn in almost robotic fashion at the sound of the voice.

"And you are…?" She asked.

"Have you forgotten me already, Peorth? I confess, it has been many a years but I could recognize you with ease." He said as he knelt down, took her hand and kissed it gently, much to TJ's surprise and dismay. He was a young man with crimson hair tied in a ponytail, hazel eyes, a grey suit and matching pants with black dress shoes.

"Is that so?" Peorth asked, her expression unchanging. "I have been on Midgard since the fall of Asgard. I had donned the disguise Belldandy, and in all the years I had been here, not once had I heard that you had sought me out. Alas, I have been in your presence while disguised, and until I had told you, you had not recognized me."

TJ looked aghast. Was she…angry? He had seen something like it in the battles against Choen Palm, but that was somewhere between her usual battlefield demeanour and it. This was on a whole different level, and yet she showed no hints of it on her face nor in her voice.

"I confess that I did not recognize you, but that is because your act was as convincing to me as it was everyone else. As for the other matter, there is no truth to the statement that I did not search. Such an operation must remain covert, as you know. To openly search for you would be definitive proof that you are alive, and we would not want our enemies seeking you out also." He rose to his feet and her eyes followed him.

He turned to TJ and smiled, but something about it felt so mirthless. Perhaps he was letting his feelings cloud his senses-he had just learned that he should not judge a book by it's cover. In this regard, perhaps what he had felt was hostility because of the way he acted and touched Peorth. And yet…there was something wrong between the two also, or at least he felt that there was. What was it about this man that agitated him so?

"You are the Abellan, correct?" He placed a hand to his chest and took a bow. "My name is Aurelius Rosario. I am an earl, and guild master to the Weaving guild, Atropos. A guild known for developing the finest silks and clothes that money can buy, across all of Jienda. I am also Peorth's fiancé."

"Likewise…I'm TJ, but you already know that." He said with a forced smile.

He turned to the guild master. "What's a fiancé Chief?"

"A fiancé is a man to be wed. As he had said, I am his fiancée, therefore, he and I were bound by a promise of marriage from many, many years ago at my father's behest."

"M-marriage?" TJ asked in disbelief. If he recalled correctly, of the many contracts the marriage contract was one that bound lovers together. In other words, Aurelius was already destined to become her partner. As Peorth had said, it was her father's wish, and it was decided years ago. He felt a pain in his chest and a sense of overwhelming defeat as he watched the two converse.

"I think that it would be best if we performed the ceremony within the next few weeks. Though we may be engaged, I am sure there are many men who would not still try their hand at winning you over, especially now that the Cerebians are aware that you are the reigning queen."

Peorth shook her head. "Such an act is ill-fitted for the given circumstances. I must spearhead the campaign to form the Guild Union, and I must also lead my guild in our quest. I am Her Grace's proxy before all else, and marriage is something that must wait until after we have defeated Agasura King Asmodeus.

"Alas, I am aware and thankful for your contributions to our cause, but I cannot offer you anything more currently. I must ask that you too, keep your mind focused on the task before us. I would not dare to put my own life choices before the lives of those who depend on me as a guild master or queen. It would do you well to remember that.

"Now then, I must be on my way. There are still many guild masters TJ and I must meet with, and plans that need to be discussed. Until we meet again, Aurelius."

"Uhh…see ya', I guess." TJ said as he followed after Peorth.

Aurelius kept a calm air about him, but even that felt off to the Abellan. There was something-rather, a variety of things that sent chills through TJ's body about that man, but he would not pursue them now. He had to keep an eye on Peorth first and foremost, and he had to learn about her circumstances. They were close, but it seemed like there were still burdens that she could not confide in him about.

"Oh! Chief there's Amata!" TJ said as he pointed to the God's Governor. "Hey Amata!"

She looked around cautiously before she spotted him and her face flushed. The God's Governor wore a white and crimson sari with a rhombus design sewn into it.

The two approached and she let out a defeated sigh. "I-uhh…h-hey," She muttered.

"You seem pretty flustered Amata. What's wrong?" TJ asked with genuine concern.

"What's wrong? This! This is wrong!" She said as she spread her arms. He tilted his head and she let out another sigh. "I can't stand dressing up like this, but Dad always says I should take pride in my heritage. It's not like I dislike it but just a normal dress would be fine. All of the other girls are wearing them."

"Except for me." The voice of another lady drew their attention and their eyes turned to her.

A young woman with pink-almost white hair with black highlights, fiery crimson eyes, and a wide grin approached. She too wore a sari, hers in red and gold, gold bangles on her wrists and a bindi on her forehead.

As she approached she draped her arms around her young subordinate and smiled.

"I won't say I don't understand how you feel Ammy, but to wear a sari once in a while isn't so bad, now is it? You look gorgeous in it."

Amata knit her brows and pursed her lips at the young woman's words, but unlike what TJ had expected, she had nothing to say in turn.

"TJ, I would like you to introduce the guild master of one of the most renown guilds in all of Mezzalone, Nia. She leads a very popular and powerful guild by the name of Devotion. Nia, I would like to introduce you to TJ, the Abellan."

Nia let go of Amata to approach and curtsy before the two. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you TJ. As our queen had told you, I'm Nia, guild master of Devotion and Ammy's superior."

She looked to her subordinate and smiled before shifting her eyes back to TJ. "You've got my thanks for looking after our God's Governor in the Pharaoh's Chambers. She had mentioned you by name, but she hadn't told me you were the Abellan."

"I-it's nice to meet you too Nia!" TJ said with a look of surprise which quickly turned to relief.

He bowed down courteously to her afterwards and scratched his cheek gently.

"Truth be told, Amata was the one who looked after me while we were in there. If she hadn't given me that pep talk when we were fighting Avaritia I think things could've ended way worse."

"You're a humble child, aren't you?" She smiled as her eyes crinkled. "Our world is in good hands, I'm sure of that. I hope you'll continue to look after Ammy if she joins you in any further adventures."

"Likewise!"

Amata crossed her arms and turned her eyes to her guild master. "Can't you refrain from calling me that in front of the others at least? It's super embarrassing!"

Nia's smile grew wider. "It's because you're embarrassed that I enjoy teasing you so much. A cute girl like you needs to be teased once in a while before you realize just how powerful you can be."

"I already realize how powerful I am. I'm well aware, actually."

"You've still much to learn my dear. All in good time."

Nia walked over to Peorth. "I do confess, you had even me fooled for all this time Peorth. But that you did so, and survived all this time gives me a deep respect for you. Your courage and willingness to stand before us all really proves that you are a gem polished to perfection."

She curtsied once more. "All members of Devotion, as am I, are at your service, my queen. If you need our assistance, be it now or in the future, we'll gladly provide."

"You have my gratitude Nia. For the time being, I have no particular duties that need be fulfilled, but if you would debrief me on any events surrounding the Sinful Seven, you would be doing me a great service." Peorth answered her with an acknowledging nod.

"The pleasure is ours."

Amata walked over to TJ as she rubbed her neck gently.

"Your guild master is really nice! I think she's pretty too." He smiled gently. "And it looks like you two get along great."

"I guess…" She muttered under her breath. "She's not like that with everybody, but she teases me a lot because I'm one of the youngest members of our guild. If I rank up a bit more, within a few years she won't have any reason to be on my case."

There was a fire in her eyes, but one that seemed to incur that she planned to accomplish great things, rather than to start a fight.

"I'd bet you could do it a lot sooner. The short time we'd spent together, you'd changed so much. Don't worry too much about it!"

She looked surprised, then turned her eyes away. "Yeah, yeah…thanks…TJ. It's partially 'cause you were there too, you know.

"B-but anyway! You needed to meet with the God's Governor didn't you? Nia pointed him out earlier so I'm gonna find him for you! See you in a bit!"

At those words she ran off and Nia turned to watch her go.

"She's always so hot-blooded. I think she's found someone that can keep her in check, though."

"…Is that so?" Peorth asked as she too, watched Amata go.

"Oh, before I forget, guild master Reina has been awaiting your arrival. It may be in your best interest if you go and speak with her. We can speak more of the details on the Guild Union later, after all."

Peorth nodded gently. "Thank you for your time Nia. We shall be on our way. TJ, let us make haste to meet with Reina."

Nearby at a table sat a pair of girls-if TJ's memory served him, they were the two Vanir had asked that he assist in the future. The drawings Skuld had given him were perfect renditions of the two's features, but considering that it had been some time since then, there were slight changes. Reina's crimson hair had grown out somewhat, and she had it tied in a ponytail that rested over her left shoulder. He had not seen all of Alessa's, but her bleach blonde hair was curled and rested on both of her shoulders with the rest on her back.

Reina wore a sky blue mirage bandage dress, studded earrings and a pair of silver hoops on her wrists. She had a white cloth tied around her eyes, just as she had in Skuld's drawing. Unlike some of the other guild masters, she had a pair of blades strapped to her side, and a long spear-like weapon. Rather than a single point though, it had a curved blade on the end.

Alessa on the other hand wore a white floral lace-knit dress. She had bright blue eyes, only one of the two being visible beneath her bangs. She had a bow and quiver resting against the table, next to her legs.

The latter of the two spotted the pair as they approached and looked absolutely ecstatic.

"Rei-Rei, they're coming!" She said excitedly as she shot up from her chair.

"A-are they? How's my hair? Do I look okay?" She asked as she flattened her hair and dusted off her dress.

"Good day guild master Reina, and companion Alessa." Peorth said as the two stopped at their table.

"It's nice to finally meet you," TJ added.

The Treasure Hunter clasped her hands together next to her face with delight. "He's even cuter in the flesh!"

She outstretched her arms and was about to make a dash for the Abellan but found herself grabbed by the shoulder. Reina leaned over the table and frantically held her back.

"You need to introduce yourself properly before you go around hugging people Les!"

While Reina stepped around the table to stand next to Alessa Peorth held out a hand to introduce the duo.

"TJ, I would like to introduce you to Reina, guild master of Bastion and one of her closest allies, Alessa. Reina, Alessa, this is TJ, the Abellan."

Reina curtsied and Alessa waved.

"It's truly an honour to make your acquaintance TJ. My name is Reina Godwin. I go by guild master, Keeper of Knowledge, and sometimes just Reina. Vanir's told me much and more about you, and as Alessa said, we received the picture he took with you."

Peorth raised an eyebrow before she turned to TJ and he chuckled sheepishly.

"I wasn't entirely unfamiliar with some of Bastion's members. Vanir told me a bit about them when we were preparing to set out for the Gourmet's Valley. They look exactly like they did in the drawing Skuld gave me."

Reina smiled. "She's very impressive, isn't she?"

TJ nodded in turn and Alessa pouted.

"I haven't introduced myself yet Rei-Rei," She said indignantly.

"Y-you're right! Sorry!"

She cleared her throat and patted her chest proudly. "I'm Alessa, Reina's best friend and most loyal companion! The things I like include cute boys, handsome men, and Rei-Rei."

"W-why am I a part of that list?" Reina asked as she sent her companion a dubious glance.

"Because you're none of the above."

TJ laughed gently at the banter between the two. He met all kinds of friends and allies today, and he began to see how all of the Cerebians were connected by a multitude of bonds.

"A-anyway…Her Highness and I-though I knew her as Belldandy-go back quite a bit. Sometime after the fall of Hanamah happened she began to occasionally appear at the guild summits. Her knowledge on the history of the Cerebians impressed me-I can see why she was so well versed in it now."

Peorth nodded solemnly.

"I could say the same. Reina is well-versed in not only much of our history, but also myth and fact alike. She had heard tales of you both in song and in story that I had not heard prior to meeting her. That aside, her knowledge about the various Cerebian artifacts, both those within our repertoire and those beyond our reach is extensive. Should you come to discover any, I would recommend that you ask her to appraise them for you."

Her cheeks flushed as she gently scratched one. "You flatter me, Your Highness."

"Please, just refer to me as Peorth. I do not want my true identity to change the way you look at the person before you. Though my outside image may differ, I am the same person within."

She nodded slightly. "Do you have similar feelings on that matter, despite being the Exalted One?"

She turned to TJ and he looked startled.

"M-me? Exalted?!" He had not the foggiest as to what that meant, but it sounded fancy and powerful, and he did not consider himself either of those things. "I…yeah, you could say that I prefer being called TJ too. I might be the Abellan but I think just my name is fine."

She smiled and nodded. "It's not a problem than. "Leaving that aside, do you have some time? There's a myriad of questions I'd like to ask you. I can't help but feel that you'd be a fountain of untapped knowledge."

"That can wait can't it? I've got a myriad of questions like where he lives, what his favourite past times are and what his thoughts on older girls are!" Alessa said as she approached with every finger on her hands wriggling about excitedly.

"You can't!" Reina shouted as she drew her blade and rapped her friend over the head with the pommel a couple times. "That's the Abellan you're thinking of touching inappropriately!"

TJ's expression changed from one of shock to surprise. Could Reina see through the cloth? He had little idea as to why she wore one, but he could not help but wonder if it was something hard for her to talk about. Just as he had his fears, and Peorth was vulnerable pertaining matters including Freya or the Saints, perhaps Reina was the same.

"Spousal abuse! Domestic violence!" Alessa cried out as she clung to her companion.

"W-we're not like that! I'm engaged to Salem! Besides, someone might get the wrong idea…" She muttered under her breath.

"Eh?" TJ asked once more as his eyes opened wider. "You two are engaged?"

He was glad that he recently learned what it meant to be engaged. Despite knowing this, the fact was no less surprising to him.

She sheathed her blade and her companion let go of her as she nodded.

"He asked me some time ago and well…who was I to turn him down?" Her cheeks flushed and she pressed her index fingers together. "We promised we'd get married after we bring the war against the Dark Moon to a close."

"I can hear you raising death flags from over here Kid! Watch that mouth of yours!"

The voice from a distance was the barista-he had a plate of food in one hand and a fork in the other which he furiously waved. Skuld stood next to him drinking from a cup with both hands.

"He acts like such a tough guy but he's suuuuuuper over protective of Rei-Rei." Alessa said with a grin.

"In truth I think he'd make a great dad but…every time I've offered to introduce him to some of my guild mates he's turned me down. I feel bad for him, but I don't wanna force him."

"Whoever that girl he mentioned was, she must've been something special if he doesn't wanna move on."

Peorth placed her hands one over the other atop her waist. "They say that love is an enduring emotion. Perhaps his endures despite whatever had torn him apart from his lover."

TJ knit his eyebrows. "I never knew something like that happened to him. He's never talked to me or Su about it."

"Vanir tends to be a tad…secretive. All of the time." Reina added with a dry chuckle and shrug.

"Who's Su?" Alessa asked before she placed a fist in an open palm. "Oh! Kasu-"

"Les! Shh! We promised Vanir remember?"

He looked down to his gem before he looked back to them. "'Scuse me for a moment!"

He took a few steps away from the ground and turned his focus back to the Heart of Yggdrasil.

"Su, why don't you come out and meet Alessa and Reina? They're really nice!"

His gem began to glow in response and her voice answered.

"That's your reason? You never change, do you? Shows how green you are.

"But I'll come out. If these two are the ones who are supposed to bring the Dark Moon down, I'll need to see them for myself…outside of the gem at least.

"That aside we're still as of yet to meet that idiot Governor."

The gem began to glow brighter and Su appeared from within and touched down before the Abellan. She stretched, yawned and rolled her shoulders before she turned to him.

"Alright, I'm out. Let's get these introductions over with so we can get down to the real problem at hand."

The two walked back over and the Treasure Hunter absolutely shrieked with joy.

"Was she with you all along? Are you guys a two-for-one?!" She ran over and picked Su up before she snuggled her, cheek to cheek and spun her around.

"What are you-"

Before Su could finish her sentence Reina took two steps toward Alessa with her hand on one of the blades at her hip. With her thumb to the guard and her other hand on the hilt, she unsheathed the blade for but a moment, pulled it out and almost immediately sheathed it once more. Her companion stopped spinning, let go of Su and suddenly collapsed into Reina's arms. What on Midgard did she just do?

"I'm sorry about her! She can be a tad…excitable," She said apologetically.

Su was out of breath and her hair dishevelled. She looked as angry as she felt.

"Keep her on a leash or something," She hissed.

"Hey TJ I found-" Amata approached before she stopped in her tracks and looked at Su from head to toe. "What happened to you? Looks like you'd seen the bad end of a bear."

She furrowed her brows. "Oh boy. Just the person I wanted to see. You sure know how to make a good day better, bitch."

A young man with dark blue hair tied in a short ponytail, golden eyes, and dressed head to toe in a black suit with matching pants and shoes got in between them.

"Ladies, there's no need to fight." He said as he held out his hands to hold both of them back.

"Who's this loser?" Su asked with an uninterested, but slightly appraising gaze.

"God's Governor of Wind," Amata answered.

"Lim Yun." He added with a grin.

"Looks like you have a bit more to do. I'm gonna take this troublesome girl back to our table for the time being. I'll catch up with you a bit later Peorth, TJ." Reina told the two as she slung Alessa over her shoulder.

"In due time," Peorth said in response.

"See you again soon!" TJ said as he waved.

"Like a phoenix from the ashes, I rise again!" Alessa shouted with a burning passion, her lowered head suddenly raised. By this point they were already back at their table.

"I would like to take this opportunity to get everyone introduced," Peorth said as she took a place amidst the trio.

"Allow me to introduce myself to you first, my lady." Lim Yun said as he knelt down and kissed her hand.

TJ glared daggers at him with a hint of wariness. "You're…not engaged are you?"

This made the Governor laugh, while Peorth shook her head gently.

"This is nothing more than an uncommon courtesy, or a type of greeting," She answered calmly.

"W-wait you can greet people like that? Does that mean I've been going about it too casually? Sh-should I…?"

He placed his hands to his temples as his face flushed. People kissed other people's hands? Verun had not mentioned anything of the sort! TJ would have to ask him or Vanir about such things.

The guild master chuckled gently. "You need not think so hard on such mundane matters TJ. I have come to enjoy your casual demeanour, so you need not feel pressured to change that for something you have discovered but today."

He nodded silently.

"Now then, as I am sure you are aware by now, I am the reigning queen Peorth. These two are my Tronz, TJ, the Abellan, and Suuba, God's Governor of Earth. The young lady here is Amata, God's Governor of Fire, and the lady over there, approaching us now is my cousin Kooh, and God's Governor of Water."

"Hi!" Kooh said as she approached and waved at the same time.

"Lim Yun. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance ladies." He said as he took a sweeping bow.

TJ pouted at those words. Maybe there weren't gentlemen but there was a gentleman among those ladies.

"You know, I knew the day would come but I never thought I'd see it…a time and a place where all of the God's Governors were united." Amata said as she looked upon the group before her. "It's kinda hard to believe but…this is a thing. Feels like we're finally setting fate in motion."

She punched an open palm with a grin. "I'm getting a bit fired up now!"

"Seeing all of you kiddos like this really makes me feel my age." Kooh chuckled as she looked over the three.

Amata eyed her warily. "You're only in your 20s aren't you? You're not that old, what're you even worrying about?"

"Tee-hee!" She laughed and stuck her tongue out while Amata's wariness increased.

"You are, aren't you?"

"Leaving the matter of Kooh's age aside, I am thankful to have the four of you here today.

"Since we have done our introductions, I would like to get to the matter at hand," Peorth began. "As I am sure you are all aware, the time we have before Agasura King Asmodeus' return is short. Knowing that there is less than a year prior to this event being made manifest, I must ask for your cooperation in preventing his manifestation in our world.

"In order to see your respective trials to completion, we must locate the sunken Xenadia and raise it to the surface once more. There, and only there may TJ complete the second step in his growth as the Abellan. That, and I feel there is much and more for us to discover about our heritage. It is also known as the final resting place of God's Governor Obermas. I feel that only she knows the ends to which all of you must go in order to become true Awakened God's Governors."

Kooh and Amata nodded solemnly while Su crossed her arms and Lim Yun looked puzzled.

"There is not much I can say on this matter, but I do know of someone who has much and more knowledge to share."

She turned back to the table where Reina and Alessa sat, now accompanied by Vanir and Skuld. "Guild master, a moment if you would?"

"Hm? Sure Peorth. What can I do for you?" She asked as she got up and approached with the others in tow.

"You said you had some information you wished to share about your search for knowledge on Xenadia, correct?"

"That's right!" Reina said as she smiled and nodded. "I had read in one of the scriptures that Xenadia was in fact, a portion of Asgard. The gods took a piece of the land from it and brought it down to Midgard to serve as a home to the acolytes who were as close to the gods as any Humans ever could be. In that, it was seen as a hallowed location of both worship and commune.

"Back then though, the sea level was much lower than it was now, and when the tide was especially low, the acolytes were able to cross a natural bridge to Midgard, or what we know as Jienda today. As Humanity's numbers increased substantially, the environment of Midgard as a whole changed to accommodate the growing numbers, and to that end the sea level rose steadily. When the acolytes of Xenadia could no longer cross by foot, they had created a means to travel-as ships were scarce, they, with the help of the gods themselves created a stone that allowed for those with proper access the power of teleportation. Two in fact!"

Reina placed her elbow in one hand and her free hand to her cheek.

"I don't have enough knowledge on what had lead to this, but during the Agasuric War, the records had mentioned that Her Holiness Amae had the five God's Governors, your ancestors, put a spell on the stone-one that would only allow its use once the five had unlocked it. There too…there's a gap in what we know. From there on, all I can tell you is that the war raged on, Xenadia was submerged beneath the waves and never seen since then. On the bright side, there are some scholars that detailed the possibility that should the current God's Governors attain the status their ancestors once held, they can undo the spell, and in the process raise Xenadia to the surface once more."

"So you think that if we complete the first part of our trial we'll be able to drag this old temple out of the drink?" Su asked with a raised eyebrow.

"That's right." Reina answered with a nod. "Sadly, there isn't much information on the God's Governors' trials. Things regarding them and the Abellan are mostly speculation and myths."

"It's a good thing that we have all of them gathered here then, huh?" TJ asked with a grin.

"Indeed. One of you must be aware of what must be done, yes?" Peorth asked.

"Not a clue!" Kooh said with a raised hand.

"You have me at a loss also." Lim Yun added with a shrug.

"Dad said something about meeting with my ancestor's Einherjar? I dunno…"

Su frowned at the three. She pointed at Kooh. "You're useless." She pointed at Lim Yun next. "You're just as bad as her." She pointed to Amata and her finger curled before she lowered it. "For once you said something useful…"

Amata hissed and she grinned.

"Thankfully one of us actually knows." She looked upon the group. "There's a temple dedicated to each of our ancestors scattered across Jienda. It's the very reason we have places under our jurisdiction, and protection. We go there, risk our asses for a while and meet with our ancestors' Einherjars. They give us a challenge, we complete that challenge and they'll give us whatever it is we need to take the final step in awakening."

"You're well informed." Lim Yun said as he raised an eyebrow.

"Thankfully, since you idiots sure aren't."

He grinned, she grimaced and Amata smiled devilishly.

Peorth placed a finger to her lips thoughtfully. "Is that so…? I had felt certain that the shrines were a necessary objective in the Governor's journey, but perhaps it too, was mere speculation," She thought aloud.

"You might not be off the mark there Peorth," Reina began. "I had heard that the shrines were once used both by Humans and Cerebians alike. The former as a place for worship and offerings, and the latter a place to commune with the gods and Governors themselves. It's possible it might be a pre-requisite to opening the temples. I can't help but think that the Governors of the past wouldn't want just anyone to enter them, and thus closed the place to prevent just anyone from getting in."

Su snorted. "Then they're an idiot bunch for forgetting to lock their doors."

"But let's get back to the matter at hand. The God's Governors might have their own reservations and require time to visit a shrine of their patron god, so let's focus on what we can do now. That is, finding that stone so we can restore the temple.

"By now it's probably leagues under the sea. How do you expect us to retrieve it?" Su asked with a hint of doubt in her voice.

"If it's just a little stone we could probably have someone swim down and get it," TJ suggested.

"That, sadly, is not the case." Peorth answered as she shook her head.

"Where do you suggest we begin searching? That's to say, if we plan on going through this now?" Lim Yun asked as he crossed his arms.

"If I recall correctly, I'd heard that stone used to be just off the coast of Orca Beach, near Ves." She rubbed the back of her head. "I remember reading about this in a textbook or something…the world shifting and changing…tectonic plates? Umm…" She let out an exasperated sigh. "Science never was my strong suit.

"The point is! Where it used to be either got destroyed or was eroded over time, and that lead to the stone falling into the sea. If we're gonna look anywhere, that'd be a good place to start.

"As for locating it, we'd probably need Kooh to dive down there and scope it out, or to borrow that…weird…underwater-boat-thing the Atlantians built. That, and we'd need something with the strength of ten freakin' people to haul a giant stone out of the water."

"Hm? I can't pretend I didn't hear that!" Z said as she walked over with a cup of fruit punch in her hand. "Guild master Z at your service!"

"You shouldn't be sticking your nose into places it doesn't belong Zosia." Rufus said as he and Cor followed after her.

"Oh come now, we're all in this together, right? Right guys?"

Most of them gave her puzzled looks, save for TJ and Peorth, the former who smiled and the latter that nodded affirmatively.

"Right, so! This is a job for machinery if I do say so myself! I know of a certain Meister in a certain city who has a very particular interest in a certain sunken temple."

Z began to rub her hands together mischievously.

"With my brains and her influence we can revolutionize the mechanical indu-"

"Zosia, you're getting off topic."

"Eh? Oh! You're right. Ahem! So I couldn't help but overhear your conversation and I heard you guys might need a sub-or at least something that can haul that stone you're looking for out of the Atlantian Ocean right?"

"That is correct," Peorth answered.

"Then we can definitely be of help. I don't know much about Xenadia and it's history and whatnot, but I can say with certainty that Berkhart knows something about it, and she's been talking about it here and there at meetings and conferences and such. I'm willing to bet she'd lend you guys a hand if you were willing to help her get there."

Reina and Peorth traded uneasy glances before turning back to Zosia.

"I know you guys are worried about getting non-Confidant Humans involved in something Cerebian related, but we can't be too choosy about who we get our help from right?

"Besides, you guys will get the machine you need to get to Xenadia, we'll get to collaborate with Berkhart-and also get some exposure and everyone wins! Am I right?"

"Schemer." Su muttered with a look of disgust.

"I can't say I'm all-aboard this plan but…it might be our best bet." Amata said with a sigh and slumped shoulders.

"Realistically speaking, getting someone with some renown on board will give the diplomats some peace of mind." Vanir added as he nodded sagely.

Su looked to him with surprise. "You've been there that long and you haven't said anything moronic? What's the world coming to?"

"No faith." The barista shook his head and clicked his tongue. "No faith whatsoever."

"To hear you speak of diplomats…what issues do you suspect would arise from our actions, Vanir?" Peorth asked with a look of concern despite her unchanging expression.

"Look at it this way Princess, first you're going diving in either Ves' or Elfa's territory. Maybe even Atlantis'. That's gonna freak people out.

"Next, you're dragging something up to the surface. Same thing.

"Last, you're gonna summon a giant freakin' temple from under the waves in plain sight of all three cities. I can't help but expect Humanity's gonna have problems with that."

She placed a finger to her mouth, lowered her head and closed her eyes thoughtfully. "Yes…yes of course. This is not just an issue between the Cerebians and Agasura alone. What we will be doing will be within the borders of the cities, and in their waters also. We must parley with the diplomats of the three cities if we are to perform such a feat. But even so, if we were to approach them as Humans, what proof do we have to provide for our claims and intent?"

"Politics are a real pain in the ass." Su muttered as she crossed her arms. "And so's Humanity."

"If need be, I can forge an identity or a permit to have them let their guard down. It won't be easy, but persuading some people to offer us a hand isn't impossible," Kooh suggested.

"I would prefer to avoid any illegal activities or coercion, if possible. But I am well aware that I make this decision with the time limit upon us. It is a difficult choice, but one that I may need some time to meditate upon before coming to a definitive conclusion."

"For the time being though, why don't you guys just have Berkhart do all of the diplomatic stuff? Signing papers, convincing people that it's something she herself is leading. She might not be the mayor of the city or anything, but she's got some sway in the Big Apple and the City of Iron," Alessa suggested.

"You might just be on to something," Lim Yun said.

"I'd bet the mayors and diplomats of the city might at least hear her out. If we can get her on board with this plan, I think we should raise that possibility." Amata said as she placed a couple fingers to her chin thoughtfully.

"It's all coming together perfectly!" Z said as she spread her arms wide with glee.

"Let us proceed with caution nonetheless. We know not that all of our preparations will be met with success. There is still a myriad of possibilities that will arise, and we cannot forget that the arrival of the Sinful Seven may hinder us at times also.

"Nevertheless, I am in agreement with the plans we have forged thus far. Given this knowledge, I must confirm that all of you are in agreement with this. The four God's Governors among us, especially.

"You will face the greatest task of them all-you must overcome a multitude of trials and tribulations to meet with your ancestors. It will be dangerous, of that I am sure, and no less difficult. But I must ask that you be brave for your families, your friends, and for Cerebian and Mankind alike, for the world needs heroes, and you all have the potential to be what this world yearns for.

"So I will ask of you, will you take up this challenge for us?"

Su was the first of the four to speak.

"What're you being so formal for? We're already in the shit, so we might as well slog through the rest until we're out of it. If Asmodeus wants to fuck up Midgard, we just fuck him up harder and send him back to whatever shithole he crawled out of." The Governor of Earth said as she punched an open palm.

"I swore I'd protect you Princess, and I'll protect the ideals you covet too. Awakening as a God's Governor is just a small step in accomplishing that." Kooh said as she beamed.

"I want to protect this world. I will. I don't care what it takes or who plans to stand in my way. I'm gonna do everything in my power to make sure that we succeed. There's no doubt that I'm on your side, Peorth." Amata added with a confident nod.

Lim Yun had not said anything though. He seemed to be hard-pressed to speak, and the way his lips were tightly shut showed that he had some reservations on the matter.

"Well? What're you waiting for? Cat got your tongue?" Su asked impatiently.

"Truth be told, I honestly don't think I'm cut out to be a God's Governor. I'm not even sure where I got this power from-let alone how to use it. I can't say I can help you to defeat Asmodeus." He said with a sheepish chuckle.

The Governor of Earth walked up to him and grabbed him by the hem of his suit.

"Listen you, just because you don't know jack shit about being an adventurer, doesn't mean you can sit on your ass and wallow in your own goddamn pity! You pick up a bloody fuckin' sword, you cut some Agasura down, and you fucking LEARN. I don't give a shit about your circumstances, but I'm not gonna stand idly by and join in your bloody fucking pity party!"

"S-Su let him go…I understand why you're angry but this isn't the way we should go about this!" TJ said as he placed a hand to her shoulder.

"Tch." She clicked her tongue and dropped him before walking away. "Whatever. You've got more patience for wimps, so you deal with it."

Lim Yun watched her walk off solemnly, his expression unchanging.

"I'm sorry about that…she can be a tad rough around the edges but she didn't mean what she said, so don't take it to heart."

"Take it to heart?" He asked with a look of surprise. "I think she just struck me in the heart with Cupid's arrow." He answered with a hand to his chest and a twinkle in his eye.

"Who?" The Abellan looked puzzled.

"Now I feel bad for calling TJ a masochist." Amata sighed as she placed a hand over one of her eyes.

"So, you wanna help out or what?" Alessa asked with a glint in her eye.

"It's still impossible," Lim Yun answered.

There was a collective groan amongst them.

"I wouldn't say it's impossible…" TJ said as he tapped a finger against his cheek, his other hand holding his elbow.

"You know, when I started my journey, despite being a Bard I couldn't play a single song. Let alone use magic," He laughed gently. "I didn't learn to use magic until near the end of my journey, and even then I couldn't play. But all of that happened within a year.

"I'd gone from being a useless amnesiac adventurer to the Cerebian's Abellan. But it was thanks to these guys that I was able to do so. I'd had my doubts about being the Abellan, let alone being the hero that they needed, but I'd found that there was so much that I wanted to protect that I couldn't stand aside."

Reina nodded solemnly. "I used to be a librarian's assistant, and nothing more. I never thought I'd see the day where I'd wield a sword, let alone two, but just like in the storybooks, when the world dictates a hero to heed the call, sometimes where it can take a book girl can be…incredible.

"Thanks to my teacher Vanir, his adorable and helpful companion-" The former grinned and raised a hand to acknowledge her while Skuld blushed and hid her face by lowering her veil. "-someone like me was able to accomplish great things. To save lives, to fight against fate…to meet with, and come to understand the love of my life and the unbreakable bond we share."

"You must not doubt yourself, God's Governor. It is never too late to heed the call for a champion. There is a cause that needs you, and a multitude of people who will lend you their strength. You only need to confide in them, and they shall offer you their aid," Peorth continued.

"We're by your side," TJ added.

"If you ever have any doubts, don't be afraid to ask. We're always glad to help out." Reina added with a smile.

"Besides, chicks dig a cool adventurer." Vanir added with a wink.

"Sold!" Lim Yun said with a thumbs-up.

"Not to rain on your parade, but I think that speech of yours was just beaten out by that crappy barista's lame one-liner," Amata said to the three.

"A-as long as we're all aboard…" Reina said in a defeated mutter.

"It is a small matter. I am glad to have you on our side, God's Governor. For the time being, it would be best if you became familiar with the plethora of classes available at your disposal, and what they are capable of.

"Since you are currently not within the ranks of any guilds, I shall personally take the time to introduce you to some of the guild masters here today." Peorth said before she curtsied.

"If you will excuse us. Come along, Governor Lim Yun." She looked to Reina as she walked away and there was a glint in her eye.

"Quality time with the queen herself? Consider me an adventurer-in-training."

"I guess I'll tag along too. Better to use this chance to get things sorted out with the other guild masters. Let's roll out, Ruf, Cor." Zosia said with a wave of her hand.

"We're right behind you," Rufus said.

Amata placed a hand to her stomach. "I dunno about you guys but all that talking made me hungry. I'm gonna go grab a bite and find out if Su's finally calmed down. I'll probably see you again soon, TJ.

"I'd like to do some thinking of my own on what to do next."

"Later!" He said as he waved her off.

"I guess that just leaves us huh?" Vanir asked as he crossed his arms.

"Yep. Though I've gotta admit, you've really been on your best behaviour today, huh Vanir?" Alessa asked with a hand over her mouth while she chuckled under her breath.

"Best beh-what do you take me for, an animal?!" Vanir asked in shock.

"You'd make a cute puppy! Do you wanna be mine?"

"Keh! No respect for your elders! Let's go Skuld, we don't need her attitude around here." At those words he stormed off with Skuld in tow.

"Hehe! He's so fun to tease."

"Since it's just us now, do you mind if I take up some of your time TJ?" Reina asked.

He smiled. "Take all the time you need."

As the trio made their way to the entrance of the Grand Hall TJ eyed Reina's weapons with a keen curiosity. He could not tell whether she was a Blader or a Warlord-the weapons she carried could be used by either class, but not both.

She raised an eyebrow as she turned to him and asked, "What's wrong TJ?"

"Hm? Oh! It's nothing!" He said as he waved his hands to gestured that was the case.

She smiled in a gentle and kindly way. "There's no need to be shy. If there's something you'd like to ask, feel free.

"If you're curious about why I wear the cloth around my eyes I don't mind sharing with you."

That was definitely not the case, but there was no denying that he was curious nonetheless. He considered what reasons she would wear such a thing, and decided to hazard a guess.

"Is it training?" He asked with a glint in his eye. If it were Peorth, she would definitely say that were the case.

She laughed. "A good guess, but that isn't the case."

It was also the case that she was indeed, not Peorth.

"I had my eyes taken from me." He looked aghast at those words and Alessa smiled sympathetically. "It was a little daunting, but that very event was one of the things that had set me on my journey."

Reina smiled for him as she opened the door. The cool night air of the mountains entered the hall briefly as the trio stepped out.

"I'm sure you've had your fair share of scary experiences, haven't you TJ?" She placed her hand to her swords. "But you know, sometimes they help to build who we are. They're not necessary to our journey, but as we face them we become stronger from them, and aim ever higher."

Alessa gently rapped her over the head and she placed both hands to it with a puzzled look.

"Rei-Rei, you've gone on a tangent again." She said with a grin.

"A-again? Sorry TJ!" He laughed as he told her that it was alright.

"You must have something you want to ask right? I'd be honoured to answer that for you."

He nodded once. "I was wondering what class you were. I remember Vanir mentioned it but…I can't remember."

She smiled. "The reason you likely can't recall it is, that the class doesn't exist just yet. At least, not officially!"

He placed a fist into an open palm with a look of realization.

That was right! Vanir said she wanted to create a class and allow for it to become available to everyone! Alike to the Meisters, and perhaps even those before them.

The thoughts of Kimara and how he brought the initial classes into existence sent a chill down TJ's spine. Did Reina feel that the gods had forsaken her, too? If so, what could he, as the Abellan do to change her mind?

He looked to her and her cheeks were flushed as she unsheathed both her blades. Even though he could not look into her eyes, there was something about her-her very aura and her demeanour that just seemed to not have that intense feeling that Kimara had. She was different-earnest at that, and though his speculation was a bit extreme, he was willing to put his faith in her. He could not help but smile, and though he did not see it, Alessa did too.

"There's a laundry list of reasons that I want to found this class but…well I'll spare you that. I tend to rant. All of the time. Especially about things I'm interested in…or books. Like books!"

"You're on that track," Alessa laughed.

"See? Help me out Les!"

"Okay, okay!" She said as her guild master gently pummeled her with her fists.

"So what Rei-Rei wants to do is create the Samurai class!" She said with a raised finger before she placed it to her chin. "Or was it that? Maybe Swordsman? But that's weird 'cause it's not gender neutral like the others. Swordmaster?"

She looked to Reina and the guild master shrugged in response.

"The name is kinda up in the air."

"Yeah it's a work in progress," Alessa added.

"Leaving that aside, why don't you tell him why you started it?"

Reina nodded. "It was something my teacher-Vanir had told me when we first sparred. If I recall, his words were, 'Every hero needs an antagonist; they're our greatest allies and enemies, what we aim to be, and to eventually surpass.' I might not be completely on the mark, but it was something along those lines." She laughed nervously. "A-anyway! My ultimate enemy, the man who I wanted to overcome most wielded a weapon just like mine. Salem knew quite a bit about it, and he taught me swordplay in an Aoich style as I learned so that's a part of the reason."

"She just wanted to make him proud, and to get him to notice her." Alessa added with a mischievous grin.

"Les!" She turned to her and started pushing her cheeks together while her friend laughed. "D-don't listen to her TJ! That isn't it at all!"

The Abellan could not help but laugh also.

After the two had finished their bout Reina sighed and turned back to him. "I guess at the end of it all, I wanted to do what Salem taught me some justice. He was an incredible teacher, and the best companion a girl like me could ask for.

"And in spite of everything…he accepted me. Disability and all. It didn't take me long before I realized that he meant the world to me, and with his help I improved. Before I knew it, I became a guild master, gained a handle on my mana and was practicing skills to use in combat. Fast forward a few years and I reunited with Alessa, made some new friends, and now I'm meeting you for the first time."

TJ felt similarly towards both Peorth and Su. He had come so far thanks to their efforts, and there were no words he could say that could thank them enough for what they had done. On the flip side, he, like Reina, had an enemy he needed to overcome more than anything. His father, Agasura King Asmodeus. To defeat him, and succeed him-to end the war, to save his friends, to protect…the person he treasured most? Who that would be, perhaps he would know when that time came, or before it. What awaited him afterwards, he had not the foggiest, but he hoped he could continue on as Reina had.

In the mean time though, there was much and more he could see and do. Perhaps this was a good place to start?

"Would you mind showing me Reina? Sometimes seeing skills can help me remember some of mine or learn some new ones." TJ asked earnestly.

Broken Wings was a skill he did not know, nor know he could even perform. It was not until Peorth had used it on him that he had become aware of it, and eventually learned to use himself. Shattered Wings, on the other hand, may have been beyond his capacity.

"Hm? You're interested in that?" Her face lit up at his words. "Of course! I'll gladly show you!"

She turned to Alessa as she drew the spear from her back and handed it over. "Les, if you would?"

At the sight a realization dawned upon him. "Oh! Quick question!"

"Hm?" Reina asked as she drew her blades."

"Your weapons…are they from Aoich too?"

She nodded. "That's right. The blades I wield are called katana, and what I gave to Alessa just now is a ko-naginata. The way they're forged is-" She paused mid-sentence and froze in place. "I'm…gonna stop myself there. I did a fair bit of reading on the types of weapons used across Jienda back in the day. Samson had occasionally brought me books along with artifacts for Mom to appraise because he travelled quite a bit." She scratched her cheek.

"After all that time I'd finally been to the places I had read about only in textbooks and novels. They were even more wonderful than the books made them out to be."

TJ listened intently, but the sound of the name 'Samson' caught his attention. They knew him too? He must have been a really well known guy.

"Samson was Su's wrangler, right?" He asked.

"Ah!" She gasped and Alessa looked smug.

"This time it's on you Rei-Rei!"

She began to sweat. "Y-yeah…where'd you hear that from?"

"Amata told me."

"That make sense." She smiled guiltily before she walked over to him. "TJ, I need you to promise me one thing."

"What's that?" He asked with a hint of curiosity."

"Don't mention this to Su, okay? Keep this a secret between us three."

He grinned. "Sure thing."

"On with the demonstration!" Alessa said grandly as she walked a safe distance from Reina.

"Alright TJ, watch closely. There are three stances that my class utilizes in combat. Depending on which stance I use, I'll have access to certain skills."

"The first of three is the Sheathed Sword Stance." She placed one leg forward and a single hand to her blade's hilt. "This is one I typically use to open battles, or during stages where I have enough time to sheathe my blade. I can't use it simultaneously with my third stance, though.

"Also the skill I used to temporarily knock out Alessa earlier was one of the skills." She smiled sheepishly.

"The second is the Drawn Sword Stance. This is the one I most frequently use. Since we can wear fairly heavy armour, we can be front-liners. Our defense isn't as powerful as a Temple Knight's, but I'd say we're between them and Guardians as far as that goes.

"In this stance I can focus on my defense, and can wield my katana with both hands. I have certain skills that rely on that to help me hold the vanguard down.

"The third and final is Dual Sword Stance." She drew both blades and shifted her stance to accommodate the change. "In the off-chance that we have someone on the front line, this allows for me to take a more offensive place among my team. Like a Blader, we can attack more frequently, which is definitely an improvement in comparison to using one, but we don't have a Blader's strength or speed.

"With that I have access to a variety of powerful offensive skills that can help me to wear down my enemy, or to get past their guard.

"Now then, let's show TJ what our practice was for. Are you ready Alessa?"

"Do your worst!" Alessa said as she held the weapon in a defensive stance."

Reina sheathed both blades and switched back to her first stance. "Okay, here I come!"

With a quick draw she unsheathed her blade and swung it once at her companion. "Slipstream!" At her words a gust of wind was unleashed and rushed towards Alessa forcing her back. In the wake of it Reina rushed forward in an instant, moving at an unimaginable speed to close the gap and follow it up with a quick slash.

As she back flipped away she prepared for her next attack.

Her blade obtained a blue glow and she took a swing at the air releasing two crescents that flew towards Alessa. "Marathon Trial!"

As they collided with the naginata they dissipated but still forced her back alongside the sound of metal clashing.

She drew her second blade and switched her stance before she leapt towards her ally.

She swung both blades one after the other, then placed them together and swung them at once. "Cross Trial!"

The shockwaves they released hit her weapon but lingered longer and seemed to carry much more force than the initial attacks.

"Moonlight Blade!" She shouted as she lunged forward with both blades. The weapons met the naginata, and immediately she pulled them aside and crossed over her arms as if to eviscerate her opponent, while two secondary cuts appeared from both of Alessa's flanks in opposing directions to Reina's movements.

She leapt back and held one blade skyward before her face before she pointed it towards her companion. "Exhaust!"

At her words four circles with a rhombus pattern appeared around her and emitted a bright glow before they faded away. At that moment Reina sheathed one of her blades and took a wide swing with the other before sheathing it, one hand to the hilt as flames emerged from within the sheath. TJ looked horrified at the sight.

"Backdraft!" She roared as she unleashed the blade, wreathed in flames and slammed it down before her comrade, causing the ground to burst in a shower of flame and stone. The explosion was enough to force Alessa back but it did not leave any visible wounds.

"Now for the finale…" Reina said as she drew both her blades and a surge of mana emerged from her.

She dashed towards Alessa and suddenly vanished. TJ look around puzzled, thinking that perhaps it was a skill similar to a Temple Knight's Crazy Hits or Peorth's Descent of the Zealot, but there were no signs of her return.

As if in response she reappeared, but there were four Reinas! Each stood on one of the four sides of Alessa with both blades drawn and held out before them. "Eight-headed Serpent!" They said in unison as they moved as one, performed a cross-slash followed by a second spinning slash, then tossed their weapons into the air. The eight swords converged in a flash of light, became a single sword and fell to the Reina in front of Alessa while the others vanished. With both hands to the blade, she spun on the balls of her heels with a wide swing and cut right through Alessa, creating a giant crescent in its wake that left a slit in one of the mountains off in the distance.

The blade dissipated and Reina sheathed both blades before she ran to Alessa's side. The girl fell into her arms with an exhausted sigh as the naginata rested against Reina's free shoulder.

"That was incredible! Also is Alessa okay?!" TJ was both ecstatic and worried, but struggled to sort through which was more important right now.

"She's fine." Reina said with a smile. "Exhaust is a skill I use to weaken my enemies, but not to kill them. While it's in effect, their wounds and any attacks that I or my allies land on them drains their stamina. By the time it wears off, either they collapse or their ability to fight is so diminished that they choose not to.

"As for my final skill well…I'd like for it to be a fifth skill, but right now it still needs refining." She laughed sheepishly. "It also takes a fair bit out of me…"

As her legs quivered TJ rushed over to help her and she smiled again.

"Thanks for lending a hand TJ. That's really sweet of you."

He smiled back. "It's the least I could do after you've gone through such trouble for me."

He helped the girls over to the steps where the former sat down and the latter quietly breathed, fast asleep. Reina rested her friend's head in her lap before she let out a sigh of relief.

"You had some questions you wanted to ask right? Reina?" He scratched his cheek sheepishly. "I'm not sure if I can be of much help, but I'll do my best to answer them."

Her face lit up at his words. "Thanks TJ. There's a lot I want to ask you, but will you tell me about yourself?"

"It's kind of a long story. Most of what happened before I started my journey is missing too…you sure you wanna hear it?"

Reina shrugged then nodded. "Long or short, I love a good tale. I could only imagine how fascinating yours was."

His cheeks flushed slightly. She was really kind-he could see why she and Peorth got along so well. "Well it all started when I woke up in Belos…"

He did not go through his entire journey, or the less important parts-all which he decided himself, but he told her about that which might interest her.

"To think that you were the one that had been in Iris Livier's party is incredible…and fitting. Given that knowledge, I can see how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together…"

"What puzzle?" He asked with a puzzled look.

"Just a phrase TJ." She chuckled as she waved it off. "A couple years ago I had heard about Iris' disappearance. We all did. But we had also heard that the Demon King had disappeared along with her.

"At the time a dark shadow had crept up from past Atlantis and seemed to slowly move over all of Jienda, and she and her team had went to remedy it. In truth, I had thought that it was the start of the Eternal Night, but there were too many variables missing for it to fit together.

"Going further back, the legends told of three Greater Demons that served under Agasura King Asmodeus. Those three being the Calamity Trigger, Blood Red Sabers, and the Malign Shroud. If at that time the darkness that threatened us was one of those, it would have to be the third. The scriptures had often said that should one of them return, it would symbolize the beginning of the end-they would return in unison, and strike fear into the hearts of men to usher in the return of Agasura King Asmodeus. The fact that you appeared, you met with King Rabana, and Iris faced off with the Malign Shroud, or as the Humans call him, The Demon King, the prophecy came together."

TJ furrowed his brows. Did that mean so long as he stayed on the other side of the gate, Asmodeus would not return? Did the actions he take that day really change the world so drastically?

Reina smiled nervously and said, "Well, let's talk about something a little less depressing, shall we?"

She cleared her throat. "Of course, with their return, it was said that you, the Abellan, and the five God's Governors would rise again to strike him down and seal him away. A simple country girl like me being among legends like you is an honour, really.

"It's a shame that people have such a negative outlook on you, TJ. I had heard that you and the others had cleared and destroyed the Pharaoh's Chambers, so Humanity was safe once again. I don't think you're at fault here though. To challenge the Malign Shroud isn't something just any Human could do. As for Iris' whereabouts following the event, there isn't enough proof nor witness testimonies to prove whether she's still alive or dead.

"Perhaps that too, was something that was meant for the Cerebians to accomplish, but the Derr Clan isn't far from us as far as divinity goes. They were said to be as close to the gods as any Human could be, and that they had Lady Amae's blessings."

TJ blinked with surprise. Reina was a historian, true, but it was rather incredible how spot-on her knowledge was. He wanted to affirm her thoughts with the knowledge he obtained through Amae's memories, but he remembered what Peorth had said. That aside, he was glimpsing into her memories, rather than just his own. Perhaps they were not meant to be shared…but he had hoped that it was not the case. At the very least, he wanted to understand the entire story before he divulged any knowledge about it…and to do so, he would have to defeat all seven of his siblings.

"I suppose that's probably the reason she had succeeded at all. It's a shame that it came at a cost, but if it's true that what her comrades said-that she's still alive and out there somewhere, then it may be possible."

Reina nodded as she crossed her arms. "But I digress. You had mentioned that you came through a gate, right TJ?"

He nodded. "Yep."

"That place…if that's where you came from, it makes sense. I had both read and heard from my mother that it's a place that houses the spirits of the fallen. Those that have died are guided there by the Artimen Clan, and in turn the members of the clan receive soul beads. It was said that if they collected enough beads, they could use the completed rosary to create a bridge from the world of the living to that of the dead.

"I'd always thought it was just a fairy tale, but as I got older I began to wonder about that. If Her Highness-I mean Peorth, met you there…and had gone inside…does that mean she had met with Queen Remedi? If it's true then perhaps I could…Eek!"

She let out a shriek as a hand gently caressed her chin.

"You really need to hold back there, Rei-Rei. If I weren't your training dummy you'd have your partner out for a week with that kind of strength," Alessa said.

"S-sorry!" She answered.

"So, what're you two talking about?" She asked as she sat up and crossed her legs.

"My umm…home? Kinda. Where I come from?" TJ answered.

He rubbed the back of his neck. "I wish I could take you there, but I've not the foggiest as to how to get there, let alone where it is."

Reina shook her head gently. "That's okay TJ. If there's anyone that would know, it would be a member of the Artimen Clan."

"Did they get wiped out too?" He asked as he knit his eyebrows warily.

"I don't think so. The records I looked over in Xenym had said that the lineage had went beyond what we know, but the child of the man Peorth knew is unknown. If we can locate them, perhaps we could see the mission they started through to fruition.

"Leaving that aside, some scholars speculated that it would be the place where the final battle would take place-that being, Ragnarok."

"T-there?! But how?"

"Perhaps that was what the Artimen Clan had been preparing for?" Reina placed a hand to her cheek as she gently tapped it with a finger. "If we're to join forces with the soldiers of the past, it's only logical that we would need a way to bridge the gap. On the other hand, it was said that the gods and fallen soldiers would join forces for one last battle that would signal the destruction and rebirth of Midgard."

"Isn't that just a bad end?" Alessa asked as she placed her hands behind her head.

"I-I can't let that happen! I joined the Cerebians to prevent that!" TJ cried out with a hand to his chest.

Reina smiled. "I've no doubt about that. Of course, this is just all sorts of possibilities speculated about in the past. You live in the present TJ. The only one who could truly decide how this ends, would be you, and those who fight alongside you. So fight for your cause, and I'm sure you'll succeed."

He grinned. "Thanks Reina. I'm gonna give it my all to win this for us."

Alessa pursed her lips. "But all work and no play makes for a boring Abellan," She muttered.

"Huh?" He asked.

"It's just like you to say something like that Les," Reina chuckled.

"Lemme' ask you a question next!" She said with a twinkle in her eye.

TJ smiled in turn. "Sure. What do you wanna know?"

"Would you rather be the one eating, or the one eaten?"

Reina's cheeks flushed as she placed her hands to her mouth. "Les!"

TJ placed a finger over his mouth as he pondered the question. Being eaten certainly did not sound enjoyable…and he rather did enjoy eating. Especially sweets. Given that knowledge, the answer was simple.

"Definitely eating," He answered.

Reina gasped again. "T-TJ?! I never would have guessed!"

He knit his eyebrows. "I know I don't look like much, but I'm working on it! I've started doing exercises with the Chief and I've been eating three square meals a day!"

Alessa snickered under her breath. "Given that knowledge there's an even more pressing question we need to ask."

"D-don't ask him that! He's not ready!" Reina muttered to her companion while he gave them both quizzical looks.

"Well? Who would you suggest? He's a tough one isn't he?"

"Well I mean…a boy of his stature and age range…perhaps someone like Vincent or Dario…Trenton is good too…"

"You're not thinking big enough Rei-Rei! Think outside the box!"

"Axle?" Reina looked defeated.

"How about Vanir?"

"Vanir as a….a…" Her face flushed as she turned away to cover a muffled scream of excitement. Following the event, she began to mutter to herself about a myriad of things.

"That should keep her busy for a while. So tell me TJ, ever thought of hooking up with an older girl?" She rose from her sitting position and bent over to match his gaze.

"How do you hook up with someone?" He asked as he knit his eyebrows.

Her eyes shuttered as a wide grin spread across her face.

"There's so much I have to teach you about the adult world TJ. You and I are gonna have so much fun!"

What did he have to lose? "Sure! Count me in!"

"Ah!" Reina said with a look of realization. "Les! What're you doing?!"

"What? He's fair game too," She answered matter-of-factly.

"That's the Abellan you're flirting with!"

Alessa raised an eyebrow. "He might be the Abellan, but he's still a guy Rei-Rei. Should we treat him any differently from the others because of his title?"

Reina looked like she wanted to object but her mouth only hung agape for a few moments. She placed a hand to her face and shook her head gently.

"You're right. You're completely right. I'm sorry TJ."

He shook it off. "It's no problem. I'd rather you look at me like that than look at me in a bad way."

"Guilty as charged!" Alessa said as she stuck her tongue out. "But my offer still stands, so, shall we, TJ?" She draped her arms around his.

At that moment the doors burst open and a dishevelled looking Amata stood between them.

"TJ, I have something important to ask you!" She said as her eyes darted to him.

"Huh? O-okay."

"Ehh…what terrible timing," Alessa muttered dejectedly.

Amata closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "I wanna take the trial to become a true God's Governor, and I want you to come with me to my ancestor's temple!"