Makina pulled out her phone and tried to contact the boys, but the call kept dropping. The signal was weak and she couldn't keep it long enough to make a proper call. She put her phone away with a groan. She debated on whether to travel through a rift, but she knew the boys wouldn't be at the waterfall any longer. Walking would be her only way of regrouping with them.

The princess found the road and started to follow it. She pulled out her phone every now and then to check the signal, but it still was weak. She kept wandering down the road until she heard the hum of an engine. Her hope spiked for a second before it extinguished when she realized it wasn't a car engine. Instead, it was the engine of an imperial dropship.

Looking up, she saw the airship above. What she noticed was its altitude was decreasing. She rolled her eyes in annoyance once knowing they had spotted her. "Damn imperials..." She put her phone away and called upon the artifact. "Ionus Sphere: Sixth Configuration." Rift Cutter appeared in her palm and morphed into a bow. A single arrow manifested from thin air and she aimed the sharp tip at the vessel.

Before the imperial dropship could open the hatch and release a horde of MTs, Makina fired the arrow. It soared through the air and pierced the hull of the ship near the engine. There was a minor explosion that caused the airship to lurch, but it wasn't enough to destroy it.

MTs poured from the hatch of the imperial dropship. Makina clicked her tongue in annoyance and changes the configuration of the Ionus Sphere. The bow morphed back into Rift Cutter. Wielding her sword, she created a small rift and leaped through the fissure. She landed in the middle of the pack of MTs and harnessed Aos' power. Infusing the blade with the power of air, she swung with all her might in a circular motion. Two arched blades fabricated from the wind sliced the machines in half. Her glowing, slit eyes narrowed as they focused on the retreating airship. She wouldn't let it get away.

Focusing her energy into Rift Cutter, Makina swung her blade and created a much larger wind blade. It sliced through the airship and caused an immense explosion. Pieces of the airship rained down not too far from the main road. She was just happy the pieces didn't obscure the road. She lowered Rift Cutter with an exhausted sigh. Combining the power she used in the grotto and now harnessing Aos' power, she was drained of energy.

"Whoa..."

Hearing the voice of Prompto, Makina turned around. Her slit eyes focused on the boys. "When did you guys get here?" She dispelled her blade and her eyes returned to normal.

"The same time that imperial dropship arrived," Gladiolus answered. "We were gonna help, but you dealt with them pretty quickly before we could even lift a finger."

"I was just testing out a few new tricks, that's all."

"The serpent from earlier..." Ignis started. "Is it perhaps the source of these so-called "new tricks"?"

"Indeed they are." Makina placed a hand on her hip. "The serpent from earlier was Aos, the Disciple of Air. I first spotted him when we were heading to Lestallum. I did not expect him to approach me willingly. My father did mention how the disciples could be stubborn, but Aos clearly wanted to return to the Ionus Sphere. You won't hear me complaining, though."

"Yeah, but now you like you're gonna pass out again," Noctis commented.

She pressed her hand against the side of her head. "I won't lie—I'm exhausted. We were in that cave for almost an entire day and with Aos' integration with the Ionus Sphere... Well, I'm a little more than worn out." She lowered her hand. "How did you guys even find me?"

"We followed the dropship," Prompto answered. "Since it just soared past us, we figured it was going after you."

"Smart." She looked around and saw a certain daemon was missing. "Where's Pluma?"

"Little guy's waitin' in the car," the shield responded.

"Then let's get going before I really do pass out and kiss the ground."

"Need a lift?" Noctis offered.

She shook her head. "As long as you guys didn't park too far, I'm pretty sure I can make the trek. Just make sure to catch me if I do faint."

"I promise to not let you make out with the ground."

"Much appreciated."

After reaching the Regalia, Makina crawled into the backseat and sat between Noctis and Gladiolus. As she leaned back in the seat, Pluma crawled out from under the driver's seat and scaled her leg. She carefully watched as the small daemon got comfortable in her lap. She was surprised it wasn't bombarding her with questions. Instead, it was simply enjoying being in her presence. From the way the kitsune was slumbering, she knew the poor thing hasn't gotten much sleep in the past fourteen years. She was careful with where she put her hands to avoid waking it.

"It really likes you," Noctis mumbled and tried to poke the daemon.

The princess swatted his hand away. "Don't wake it. Let it sleep."

"Shouldn't you be the one sleeping?"

"Smartass."

Noctis chuckled before getting comfortable. "If you won't, I will. Wake me when we get back to Lestallum."

"I'll think about it."

The drive back to Lestallum was peaceful. Makina had fallen asleep with her head resting on Noctis' shoulder while he had his own head resting in his hand as he slept. The sound of the car's engine falling silent stirred her from her slumber. She woke and realized they were back in Lestallum. Noctis and Pluma were still fast asleep. Carefully, she scooped the kitsune up and carried it gently with her palms. She then brutishly elbowed the prince in the side and woke him up.

Before he could question her about her roughness, she exited the vehicle. Her footsteps were uneven as she dragged her tired body in the direction of the Leville with the boys following close behind. They slowed their pace to match hers just in case she doesn't make it to the hotel before she passed out.

Halfway through the main thoroughfare, Makina stumbled. She managed to catch herself and keep ahold of Pluma without waking it. She felt her heart skip a beat due to the sudden but brief sensation of falling.

Before she knew it, Noctis was by her side. He gently wound an arm around her shoulders and pulled her into his side. He guided her all the way to the Leville and to the room she was sharing with Iris. She thanked him as she sat down on the bed. She placed Pluma down on the mattress and was thoroughly surprised the daemon didn't wake. "It sure can sleep. Reminds me of you," she teases.

Noctis only rolled his eyes. He didn't retort and sat down beside her. "We'll leave the Disc for another day. You should get some rest."

"You should too. I'm not the only one who's looking a little pale."

"Trust me, I'm going straight to bed after talking with Talcott."

She flopped down on her back with a huff. "I'll be here if you need me. Just try not to need me. I'll be cranky if you wake me up."

Noctis smirked. "Sure thing."

After he left, Makina crawled onto the bed. She moved Pluma from the foot of the bed to one of the spare pillows. Once she made sure the kitsune was comfortable, she wrapped herself up with a blanket and fell asleep.

༻──── ⋇⋆✦⋆⋇ ────༺

Makina didn't wake up until the next morning. She slithered out of bed with a yawn and stretched her arms. She freshened herself up in the bathroom. Once done, she found Pluma on the balcony. She joined the kitsune and closed the balcony door behind her to prevent from disturbing the slumbering Iris.

"You slept for quite a while, Pluma. How're you feeling?" she asked.

"I haven't slept like that in years," the kitsune giggled. "Thank you for bringing me along, Princess Makina."

"Just call me Makina."

The daemon nodded with a smile. "Do you think we could get some food, Makina?"

"Oh, definitely. I'm starving," the princess replied. "Let's go."

"Will it truly be okay for me to be seen with you?" Pluma asked worriedly.

"It'll be fine," she smiled reassuringly. "I doubt anyone will know what you are. Besides, your kind always has been harmless. It is nice to know kitsune are peaceful daemons. You do like your tricks, though. Try to keep from tricking anybody."

"I promise!"

Makina held our her hand. Pluma climbed onto the appendage and scaled her arm to reach her shoulder. It sat on her shoulder with its tail wagging. It leaned against the girl's neck as they left the hotel.

Remembering where she had gone shopping with Iris, the princess took Pluma to Tostwell Grill located in the marketplace. She sat down at one of the vacant tables and the daemon climbed down. Its feet pattered against the tablecloth as it analyzed the menu. After it decided what it wanted, Makina ordered for them.

The two chatted about whatever came to mind while they waited for their food. As they spoke, the Princess realized other customers were staring at the small daemon. None of their gazes were threatening and only seemed to be fueled by curiosity. She did expect this, but she was glad their stares didn't cause Pluma discomfort. Instead, it seemed to be oblivious to the various eyes that were focused on it as it jubilantly spoke to her.

When their food arrived, Pluma dug in. Its tail swished back and forth as it ate. Makina smiled at the sight, knowing the kitsune was enjoying the food. "Don't eat too fast or you'll get a stomach ache."

"I know, but it's so good!" Pluma giggled between bites.

As Makina went to take another bite of her meal, she overheard two hunters talking to each other when they sat down at the vacant table beside theirs. She eavesdropped on their conversation at hearing them mention the royal tombs. Listening closely, she learned the location of not only one but three royal tombs. Her eyes radiated with joy. Noctis would definitely be excited about the news.

She paid for their meal after they finished and left the eatery. With Pluma back on her shoulder, they left the marketplace and went back to the Leville to search for the boys. However, they were already gone.

Makina asked Jared if he had seen the boys. Luckily, he had. He told her they headed to the outlook to check on the Disc of Cauthess. As she dashed out of the hotel, she failed to realize Pluma had hopped off her shoulder to play with Talcott.

Weaving through the alleys and the people, she reached the main thoroughfare and crossed the street. She passed through the parking lot and arrived at the outlook a couple of minutes later. She spotted the boys and another man. As she walked down the stairs, she saw the stranger was the man from Galdin Quay. She froze on the steps when she recognized him. She muttered a curse under her breath and glared at the man when he took notice of her.

The auburn-haired man sauntered past the boys and towards her with what was supposed to be a smile but appeared to hide darker intentions. "My lady, it is a pleasure to be in your presence once again."

Her glare sharpened as she remained silent. She refused to entertain a man who she deemed to be a creep. His presence and smile made her feel uncomfortable.

He took off his hat, bowed, and introduced himself. "I am Ardyn. I shall be your escort to the Disc." He held out his hand towards her.

She refused to take his hand and crossed her arms, clearly displeased. "I'm sorry, what did you say?"

"Your companions have spoken to me of your plight and I have extended my services to them. I assume you will be joining us?"

She cast her glare in the boys' direction and saw them tense. "Oh, did they now?"

"Please, follow me to the carpark. That's where I left my automobile."

She held out her hand towards the parking lot. "Lead the way." As Ardyn walked by, she kept her glower focused on the boys.

"You're kinda scaring me..." Prompto mumbled with a small whimper.

"Are you guys serious?!" She bellowed angrily. "You're accepting help from a complete stranger?"

"We'll be careful," Noctis said.

"Y'know, I'm not surprised Prompto or Noctis would do this, but you two?" She eyed the two older boys. "Especially you, Iggy! What were you all thinking?!"

"It is not an ideal arrangement, but it is the only option for us to gain access to the Disc," the advisor responded.

The princess pinched the bridge of her nose. "I can get us in. It's as simple as opening a rift in the right place. We wouldn't have to rely on a stranger."

"We're not gonna let you use your power when you're still recovering," the prince remarked. "And I'm pretty sure we can handle whatever this guy throws at us if he does lead us into a trap."

She huffed out a sigh. "You are making it more difficult to trust this plan..."

"We'll be fine."

"We'll see about that..."

The group caught up with Ardyn. He stood by a vehicle that seemed to be vintage yet was in fine shape. "All set?" He asked.

"As ready as we'll ever be," Makina muttered.

He smirked before clearing his throat. "Allow me to do the honor of assigning your driver..."

She blinked in shock. "Why would...?" She rolled her eyes with a groan. "Ugh, forget it..."

"I choose you!" Ardyn pointed to the prince.

"Fine by me," Noctis replied.

The auburn-haired man then glanced over at the snowy-haired girl, his smirk more prominent than before. "It appears your vehicle would be rather cramped with you all. Won't you join me in my vehicle, my lady? You would have plentiful room."

"No way," Noctis interjected. "Not happening. She's staying with us." He placed a hand on Makina's shoulder and nudged her in the direction of the Regalia.

Ardyn smirked at the prince's quick reply. "Of course. The lady shall stay with you. With that decided, let us be off."

"Yes, let's trust the creepy guy and follow him," the princess dramatically mumbled to herself. "What a great idea..."

Noctis got behind the wheel of the Regalia and followed Ardyn out of Lestallum. Makina pouted like a child as she sat between Ignis and Gladiolus. She leaned back with her arms and legs crossed. She inhaled deeply and exhaled to quell her anger. To keep her mind off the current situation, she remembered why she was looking for the boys. "Y'know, I overheard some interesting things in the marketplace when Pluma and I were eating. Apparently, some hunters have located royal tombs in Balouve Mines, atop the Rock of Ravatogh, and Costlemark Tower."

"Once our business at the Disc is complete, we should prioritize the royal arms," Ignis said.

"Don't see a problem with that," Noctis commented as he drove. "Hunters really do seem to know a lot. Think this guy is one?" He asked, referring to Ardyn.

"No way," Gladiolus answered. "What kinda hunter goes around fighting monsters and daemons in clothes like that? Not to mention, he doesn't have tags."

"True, but it's hard for me to picture that guy in the empire too," Promoto said.

"But it's even harder to imagine him as a Lucian."

"I'd sooner not rely on him," Ignis commented.

Prompto sat up on his knees and peered into the backseat at the advisor. "But with Makina not feeling well, he may be our only way into the Disc of Cauthess."

"One rift isn't going to kill me," Makina mumbled under her breath.

Gladiolus glanced at the girl sitting beside him. "We already know what Her Highness' opinion on him is." He leaned forward in his seat and glanced at the prince. "What's His Highness' opinion of this "Ardyn"?"

"Don't really have one—he's nothing more than a creepy old dude to me," Noctis replied.

The marksman nodded in agreement. "You hit the nail on the head right there. It's also really creepy how he acts around Makina."

"It is quite unsettling how his demeanor changes with her," Ignis said.

"Not to mention how he keeps trying to touch her. Totally not creepy at all," the blonde sarcastically stated.

"Wait, what?" Noctis asked out of confusion. He wasn't as observant as his friends and never noticed Ardyn's touchiness towards the princess.

"Dude, watch the road!" Promo shrieked when he noticed the car about to ram into the guardrail.

The prince quickly returned to the road. "S-Sorry..."

"Let's push our esteemed guide's motives to the back burner lest we wish Noct to wreck the car," the tactician said, knowing what Prompto said had distracted the raven-haired boy.

"That would be for the best," Makina chimed in. "Who knows how much the repairs would cost. We're not made of gil, after all."

"Hey, at least I have a driver's license," Noctis snapped back.

"Just because you have a driver's license doesn't mean you're a good driver."

Prompto laughed. "She gotcha there, buddy."

Noctis scoffed. "Whatever..."