"I am going to inject this into your arm's nerve. It will bring much pain, but...soon your damaged nerves and muscles will start to heal. I need you try and be still." Galena brought up a cloth. "You can bite into this, if you'd like Yun Fang."
"I dont need it. Lets get this over with." Fang mumbled.
"Damn it Fang. Just bite the damn thing. Stop trying to look tough!" Auryon growled taking the cloth from Galena. "Bite it or you'll regret it!"
"No.." Fang growled.
"Bite it! Listen to your elder, Yun." Auryon growled. They locked eyes for what appeared to be a century. Fang knew she couldnt say no. It would bring shame to any clan if one ignored their elder. Fang took the rag and placed it in her mouth, leaving both corners having. "Thats a good girl! Wish I could stay and see Fang cry like a baby, but I gotta go. I'll be back later with that behemoth thigh I promised!"
Fang muffled a curse when Auryon ruffled at her head. Auryon laughed and escaped Fang's anger.
"Auryon, leave the poor woman alone." Galena said with a small chuckle. Auryon's laughter vanish when she exited the room. Galena smiled sweetly at Fang. "You will definitely get your revenge later, don't worry. I will even hold her down for you." Fang grinned slightly while she nodded. Galena's smile soon vanished. She brought one of the needles up. "I'll insert the potion now.."
Fang nodded. She wasnt one to fear needles, but this one made her nervous. Her eyes locked on the point that a light shine from the light outside. She let a small breath and relaxed as best she could. In the next second a pain like she never experienced before surged into her injured arm.
"Mnrgh!"
Fang released muffled screams. Her left hand clenched tightly into a ball. So tightly it felt as if her nails would rip into her flesh. Her eyed shut tightly. Stars began to spark in the darkness she shut herself in. Galena held her injured hand by its wrist to keep it from jerking.
"Be strong Yun.. its over.." Galena whispered.
"Bloody fuck.." Fang let out of in a small cry after spitting out the cloth. "That was... that was.. fuck!"
"Needles into nerves are the worst of pains. You have many damaged nerves from the force of the snap.. We can inject the Cura once each day or each week, that way we wont rush thi-"
"Do all of them now.." Fang whispered through pants.
"Fang, do not overestimate the amount of pain you can handle at once."
"I said do 'em all now!" Fang barked.
"I will not."
"The faster we handle this, the faster i can go back to Lightning!" Fang eyed the needles. "If you don't do it, i'll just do it myself!"
"Calm yourself, Yun Fang!" Galena said in such a roar.
Fang tensed up, never hearing the Elder angry. The crimson in her eyes looked like an ocean of boiling red blood. Fang lowered her eyes and sighed softly.
"Forgive me, Healer of the Dia." Fang whispered. Her head turned the opposite direction to hide the tears that dared formed. She clenched her left fist. "I just.. I want to see Lightning again. I.."
Galena sighed. While Fang managed to fight back the tears, she couldn't hide the distress in her voice. The husky voice cracked, reminding Galena of when Fang was younger, much younger.
"I love Vanille. I wanna make her happy." Fang whimpered into Galena's breasts. "Why wont she love me?!"
"Dear Child.. love will come. Do not rush these things." Galena whispered softly, comforting the young Yun. "If not Vanille, then another."
"But I want Vanille.. I want.."
Galena sighed softly and cupped Fang's cheek. She gently turned Fang.
"Just one more.. this one will be most difficult. It is a nerve connected to your memories.." Galena whispered.
"Do it.. please." Fang whimpered.
Galena nodded. Fang saw doubt in the woman's eyes. Never had Fang seen that. Galena was a strong woman. To see doubt terrified the Yun. What memories would be activated through the nerves? Fang let out a small shiver. The pain had slightly subsided.
"Here i go." Galena said softly.
Fang placed the cloth back in her mouth. She nodded and watched. Her eyes locked at the approaching needle. They widened. Her heart's pace quickened. The pain returned once more. This time it was doubled that. Fang felt a massive dizzy spell come. She tightly closed her eyes only to be faced with flashing images.
The pushing eyebrows. Cold steel like azure eyes. The first smile and nod. The helpless body being slapped into the air. It made a futile attempt to reach for its weapon before falling to its death. Fang's hand reached for that body.
"Wake up.. WAKE UP!"
Those same eyes stared up at her. With each second the light began to vanish. The skin became pale, almost white. An arm tensed as it tried to reach up. Fang tried her best to not lose her nerves, but she knew she was crying.
"Why are you crying, Fang.."
That voice cracked. Already the hand was losing its heat and becoming limp.
"Lightning, dont die on me.. Lightning... LIGHTNING!"
The images ended. The voices faded into nothing. Fang could only hear her loud sobs. Arms had wrapped around her head. She had leaned into Galena's chest for needed warmth. It didnt help ease the crying.
"Its okay, Child. Its over. Its over now.." Galena whispered softly.
Auryon bursted into the room.
"He-"
"Shhh.." Galena whispered.
"What.. she's asleep?!" Auryon whispered, or rather tried to.
"Quiet down.." Galena slapped the woman's hand.
"I brought her the biggest thigh." Auryon blinked. "What the hell is she doin' snoozin'?"
"The session was a little too much for her.. she, she needs to rest." Galena sighed and stepped out. Auryon followed. A strong arm wrapped around the Dia. "Yun Auryon.. I have never seen Fang in such emotional dismay. Not even with Vanille. She.. cried herself to sleep. She wouldn't tell me a thing. Only repeated the Cocoonians name and whispered 'its all my fault, Lightning.'"
"Fuck.. and i was just kidding with the crying fit.." Auryon sighed before looking down at the Dia. The woman looked so depressed. Auryon had never seen Galena look like that. She had always been a woman to hold her own. "How are you doing?"
"It hurts.. To see such a spirit so broken." Galena whispered softly as she leaned into the Yun. "We have not told Fang of what is happening in Gran Pulse."
"I dunno if we should. She already has much on her plate. Jamming more, ya know shes gonna jump right in or worse, she'll fall into a deeper state of depression." Auryon sighed again. "Jeez, i wanna meet this Lightning see what's so damn special 'bout her. Why she has Fang doing backflips!"
"Quiet down, you'll awaken her." Galena whispered.
Auryon groaned in response. "Ya know, there are many great women in Gran Pulse. Me for example. Having Fang every night.. damn,.." Auryon shook her head. "Not a good time to get an erection.."
"You would only want Yun Fang for her body. That isnt true love, Yun Auryon."
"Fine.. then what about you?" Auryon cocked her head looking down at the Dia.
"Me? For Fang?" Auryon nodded. Galena blushed lightly, casting her eyes down. "That is silly, Yun Auryon."
"She liked you back then. She can do it again!" Auryon growled.
"Auryon.."
"Dammit Galena! We gotta get her away from Cocoon. We already lost Van! Things are gonna get dangerous and it'll get worse."
"Things may work out. Do not jump to conclusions."
"But-!"
"And do not mention any of it to Fang, Yun Auryon!" Galena snapped, pulling away from the buff Yun's hold. The Yun crossed her arms. "She already has things to worry about. This would only delay her healing. We must keep her calm, as calm as we can."
"Fine.. fuck.. fine!" Auryon finally let herself relax against the cool wall. "So.. you do love her right? Fang i mean.."
"I love all people in Gran Pulse."
"Dammit, Galena you know what mrngg-"
Galena gently placed her index finger against Auryon's lips. She smiled weakly and shook her head.
"We have discussed this many times, Auryon. You already know my reasons." She replied softly.
"I just.. hate seeing you like this." Auryon mumbled.
"I am happy, Auryon. Honest I am."
"You're lyin'. I can tell.." Auryon mumbled. She took the woman's hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.
"I do not wish to discuss this anymore, Yun Auryon."
Galena slipped her hand from Auryon's hold. The Yun made no attempt to counter. She remained silent as Galena took her leave for dinner.
Are ya really happy? The two of you.. Fang, Galena.. Can you honestly tell me you're happy with your decisions so far? Auryon sighed and closed her eyes. Maybe they are.. or maybe theyre in denial about it all.
The next few weeks consisted of more Cura injections. The sessions had become a lot easier. Fang no longer needed a cloth as she had gotten use to the pain as it rushed throughout her nerve endings. Only nightmares plauged the Yun. Repetitions of Lightning's fall. Some where Lightning was ripped to shreds by the juggernaut. Others where Fang never reached the falling body and she got a front row seat of it splattering all over pavement. Even some where Lightning died in her arms.
When the third week hit, Fang practiced using her injured arm to make sure it would be in working order. The nightmares only gave the Yun more reason to give it her all during her training.
"Here use this lance. Glaive. Its an upgrade to the bladed lance ya took to Cocoon." Auryon cocked her head as she horizontally threw over the extended lance. "I'll keep an eye on ya, so go crazy.. Just give a slow start!"
"Yeah yeah.." Fang mumbled.
She took the blade in her left hand and spun it. Her right hand gave a small twitch of anticipation. The lance jumped in the air before landing on her right open palm. She clenched her hand.
"I missed holding a weapon.." Fang said over to Auryon. "Fighting's all I know after all."
"Heheh, Yun are the word fight. When one wants to fight or a fighter, Yun is what one thinks of!" Auryon said proudly.
"Couldn't imagine my life without this adrenaline.." Fang extend her arm foward, flinching very slightly. "Mgn.."
"Still have two weeks here.." Auryon said after catching the slight discomfort.
"I'll make a 100% recovery, you'll see." Fang responded.
Auryon nodded, even though she knew those words werent targetted to her. Fang probably spoke to the Cocoonian.
"Well, so the rumors arent rumors at all!"
Both women turned to catch a blonde approach them. She had a small smile on her light pink lips. Her royal blue eyes shined brightly at the sight of Fang. Fang grinned widely.
"Simone!" Fang jogged towards the Yun. She wrapped her strong left arm around her shoulders, giving her a squeeze. "Where have you been?"
"Ah! Ya know Simone, Fang.. A huntress and top knotch pirate of sorts!" Auryon quickly replied for Simone. "Right Simone?"
"Ah.." Simone caught the strange pleading look Auryon threw at her. Her slender brow lifted before they relaxed. "Ah, yes.. The life of a pirate indeed. I just came back from a long journey actually. Six months out at sea.."
"Did you find any treasure?!" Fang asked with a giant smile.
Simone couldnt help but laugh. She always enjoyed Fang's excitement. It hadnt changed from when she was a child. The only thing that had changed was the Yun's delectable body. It attracted many Yun and other clans men and alike. Simone too was one of the attracted. But Fang declined all the people that asked for her companionship. But none gave up, not until Fang announced she'd be leaving Gran Pulse.
Now here she was once again. She'd return to them. She'd return home.
"Aha.. well, not really. We wanted to venture out into the unknown. Found a small inhabited island though." Simone lied. It pained her to lie, but the look Auryon gave her basically ordered her to lie. Simone would have to find out the reasons why later.
"I wish I could go with you out to sea one day.." Fang frowned.
Auryon gave a hearthy laugh. "Too bad ya get sick. Soon as the tide come-whoa hey!" Fang pouted after pushing her elder. Simone laughed at the show. "Fuck, just saying the truth!"
"We know the truth.. you dont have to repeat it. Its an embarrassment to me." Fang grumbled.
"Dont worry, Fangy. Dia Galena has been working on a remedy for sea sickness." Simone smiled to watch Fang's eyes light up. "We can go on an adventure together.. alone, out at sea.. no one can hear us."
"Dont even bother. Fang's taken!" Auryon barked.
"What?! Fangy Fang, is this true?!" Simone asked, shocked by the news.
"By a damned Cocoonia-argh!" Auryon fell on the ground by a punch to the diaphragm. "Its true.. argh.. damn it Fangy-eeee! Okay okay.. stop!"
"Only Simone can call me that, ya know.." Fang puffed out. "And i thought i told you never put Lightning on the damned Cocoonian pile!"
"So its true, Fang.. you are with a Cocoonian?" Simone placed a hand on her sword's hilt, which rested in her belt's sheath. "Wait.. then, is she here?"
"No..." Fang sighed and placed a hand on her healing shoulder. "She's in a coma because-"
"It aint your fault, Yun!" Auryon growled as she crossed her arms. "Honestly, ya gotta stop that!"
"So then.." Simone tilted her head. "How did it happen?"
"I dont want to talk about it.." Fang mumbled.
"Same ol' Fang." Auryon shrugged. Auryon already shielded her ribs at a coming fist. "Hgn.. a-anyways.. look some goblins for ya to take your pint up rage on!"
Fang grumbled under her breath before walking over to the goblins. She twirled her lance with her good hand.
"Come at me, nasties!" Fang taunted them with succession.
The two other Yun looked at her from a safe distance. Close enough to aid her in case things got out of hand, but far enough to keep her at earshot.
"So any reason why I just lied to Fang?" Simone finally asked.
Auryon sighed and ran a hand through her short locks. "Ahh.. look at her. Shes in bad bad shape."
"How did she get hurt?"
"She hasnt told us. She hasnt said much, actually. But whatever happened, must have been bad. Galena told me she fell asleep cryin her eyes out!"
"Like when Dia Vanille left?"
"Worse than that.."
"Worse?"
"Worse.." Simone sighed and shook her head a bit. Auryon came closer. "So.. hows the situation?"
"We boosted our defenses. They wont get through our wall. We kept them at bay and pushed until they surrender."
"Thats good!"
"Yes, but i'm sure theyre planning something. They cant have given up so soon.."
"If things become worse we may have to awaken the tech used by our ancestors. The tech they want i mean.."
"Juggernauts would surely help, if we reboot and rewire them to aid only us."
"Hmgn.. thats all Dia and Nsu clan crap. Not many Yun are scientists, ya know?"
"Yun Jeanne excels in science and is a genius in combat. She makes very accurate battle plans."
"Oh yeah! Yeah.. she might be a good one to look over at our ancient tech." Auryon nodded with a small grin. "Plus.. she is HOT. Ya know she is the only Yun to have said no to me?!"
"I cant imagine why, you are so charming." Simone said with an obvious sarcastic tone.
"Says you. You got on yer knees for me, Simone."
"I was drunk.. I was drunk.." Simone waved Auryon away, as Auryon laughed. "You know my heart belongs to Fang."
"That ship set sail, hun."
"Nice pun." Simone mumbled.
They finally remained quiet as they watched Fang return with a grin. She had won, but it was obvious she had broken a sweat. Braking a sweat with mere goblins wasnt a good sign.
"We'll need to tell Fang eventually, you know.." Simone whispered.
"Yeah.. i know."
Fang's grin vanished as she notice a bit of distress from the Yun. They noticed her staring and just as quickly as they stopped smiling, they gathered themselves again and started smiling once more. Fang's brows shot up a bit before she shook the strange feeling away.
They acted themselves again. Auryon continued with the teasing while Simone protected her whenever she could.
Fang sighed as she sat against the bed she had been sleeping on for three weeks straight. She looked over at Vanille's phone. Every day it awaited her with the same message.
Lightning has not awaken.
Fang let herself lay back. Her arm was no longer in a splint. She was able to support it without pain. But she still couldnt use the lance at full potential and could lay against her right side when sleeping. At first she would constantly hurt herself when turning while asleep, but now she no longer turned unconsciously. As if her brain ordered her body to watch itself even while sleeping.
"Just a little more.." Fang whispered. "Then I can go back.. I can go back to you."
Same Day (Nightfall)
"Captain Simone, welcome back." Jeanne smiled over at the Yun captain.
"Of course I'd be back, General Jeanne." Simone smiled lightly. "I brought along someone with me or rather she followed m-"
"Hey! Jeanne! Want me now?"
Jeanne scowled before sighing and rubbing her already aching temples. She knew that voice all too well. Her light blue eyes rolled away from the Yun archer.
"Yun Auryon, what a pleasure.." Said a sarcasm filled voice.
"Why the formalities?" Auryon asked with a grin as she gave the general a slow scan.
"Take a picture why don't you.." Said another that surfaced from a room beside the one they were in.
"Nsu Guinevere.." Auryon mumbled shifting her eyes away the female. "Tch, werent ya in some long mission away from here?"
"Was.. Nsus dont take as long as some of you, Yuns."
"What?!" Both Simone and Auryon growled. The female grinned.
"At ease.. all of you." Jeanne whispered softly, letting her slender fingers move some brunette locks behind her ear.
"So, General Jeanne.." Auryon snaked her way next to the woman before wrapping an arm around her shoulders, or rather trying. A single finger held back the bulgy arm. Auryon groaned as she struggled to lower it completely. "Tch..grrnghmngh! What the hell?! How do you do that, Jeanne?!"
"For once, can you be serious, Yun Auryon? Especially at moments like these." Jeanne replied.
"Fine.. dammit."
Auryon surrendered and leaned against a wall with her arms crossed in defeat. Guinevere smirked slightly before nodding over at Jeanne to begin a small review.
"The enemy has been sealed off at sea, by air, and by land. We have trained some of our every day monsters to act like our pets. Behemoths. Amphibaenas."
"Next thing to train would be.." Simone's eyes grew at the thought.
"Thats correct, an Adamantoise." Guinevere whispered.
"Oh-hohoho! Thats quite the challenge!" Auryon said with a giant grin.
"We could sure use Fang.." Jeanne whispered softly. "Dia Galena continues to keep it a secret from her, correct?"
"Yeah.. Fang's gonna be leaving next weekend, so.. it doesnt matter." Auryon groaned slightly.
"To think she'd leave Gran Pulse. Her home!" The Nsu growled.
"She has her reasons!" Auryon quickly countered. "And I'm sure she'll return. Soon as she handles her business in that damned land!"
"Fang is one of the best we have. Having her join us sooner than later would be for the best." Jeanne's hand gently rushed across the map of Gran Pulse. "But, I would like to have her at 100%. So lets let her do what she has to do first. Then we can tell her everything."
"Understood!" All replied with a nod.
Final Days - Oerba Village
Fang stretched her right arm with ease as she walked along a random road. She had a giant grin on her face. Finally she felt absolutely no pain. She had even killed a Behemoth on her own to fetch the village dinner. After four weeks of constant training and constant sessions with Galena's healing, Fang felt her strength returning at full. She felt Yun again.
Fang plunged her new lance against the soft ground before climbing up a tree. She settled against the trunk after sitting on a branch. Her eyes scanned the green of Oerba. A small smile lingered on her lips.
After you wake up, Lightning...I want to bring you to Oerba. I want to show you every little thing I love about Gran Pulse. I want us to start a life here. But I wonder, I wonder if you'd like it here... Fang stared up at the starry sky. Her eyes widened at the sight of shooting stars decorating the sky as well.
"Make a wish, Yun." A voice came from under the tree.
"Auryon.."
"Heheh.. Dont mean to intrude, Galena wanted me to watch over you. You know, in case ya hurt yourself again." Auryon teased.
"Right.."
I wish...I wish Lightning would wake up as soon as I get back to her side. I want you to wake up Lightning. Wake up, get up, and just...hell, you can even go crazy like you did the first day we spent together. I dont care. As long as I can hear your voice and feel your warmth, I dont care what you do, Lightning. Just wake up for me. . .
Auryon remained quiet. Her eyes locked down on a small droplet of water that had fallen on her left hand. She knew it wasnt a drop of rain. She knew the other Yun was crying again. Like she had many nights prior. It pained her to see the Yun in such a state.
Many forgot Yun were still human. Many forgot that no matter how strong Yun were, even they cried as well.
Fang, one of the strongest Yun cries. For some Cocoonian.. damn it Fang, she better be hot for all you cried while you were here. You better let me meet her.. Auryon stared up at the quiet Yun. She'll wake up, you'll see and you'll have a home to return to, once you decide to come home again.
Muffled noises entered the pitch black darkness. The noises were filled with agony.
"-On't -ie, Li-t-ing."
Then they turned into angry growls. One voice turned into many different ones. Sobs, yells, sadness. Then again, one. A comforting one that brought her a bittersweet feeling. Finally only one remained. The tone sounded familiar, but the words were still muffled. She couldn't decipher them no matter how hard she tired. It was as if cotton balls had been wedged into her ears.
Lightning couldn't find the source of the voices. Soon they faded and were never heard again. She remained lost in the darkness alone.
"Hello? Is anyone here.." Lightning called out. "Where am I.."
How odd was it to the soldier that she could hear her own voice, but not the others that had spoken in the distance. She couldn't see anything around her, but she saw her own self. It was if she was the only thing that radiated light and the only one in this strange pitch dark room. She took steps foward and back and side to side but never got anywhere. She began to panic.
Keep calm soldier.. Control your emotions.
Lightning shook her head at her own advice. Her eyes widened as the feeling of desperation and panic grew deep in her chest. Air began to become difficult to take in. Then she feared that whatever room she was isolated in would run out of air.
"I... I need to get out of here... I need to..." The soldier said as she began to hyperventilate.
She ran as fast as she could. She sprinted with an arm stretched out and swinging left and right, hoping to hit anything. A door, a window, a person, a creature, an exit.. Nothing ever came. Soon she fell to her knees as she pulled at her uniform collar. She tried as hard as she could to control her breathing.
Calm down.. panicking won't get you anywhere, Soldier.
"But where am I.. where..." She whispered. "Hello?!"
"I -ant... keep.. life support.."
Lightning looked around as the voices came around.
"Se-ah.."
"Serah?!" Lightning stood up. She clenched her fists as the name was repeated. That had definitely been Snow's voice. Sobs were heard again.
"-on't cry, Serah.."
"Serah?! Serah.. is he hurting you?!"
"Lets go.. you need to sleep.. -'ll be okay.."
"It wont be okay.. he's lying. Serah, he cheated on you.. Serah?! Where are you.."
The room seem to gather light. Dark shadow like silhouettes began to appear. In the distance a light glimmered. Only two of the beings were finally distinguishable. Her eyes widened.
"Serah! Serah, get away from him!"
Lightning began sprinting. She ran through the shadow beings. She started getting closer to her little sister, until.. Until the shadow like beings became solid and started getting in her way. She crashed into them.
"Get out of the way!" Lightning roared.
Her eyes locked back on her sister and Snow. They got further away by the second. Snow turned and locked an eye with her. An evil grin soon formed against his lips. His grip tightened around her sister. Soon Nabaat appeared around his other arm. She too looked back as a wicked grin form on her lips as well.
"Dont worry, we'll take good care of Snow."
"The more the merrier.." Snow smirked.
"Serah.. look at the woman! Serah.. Serah, can't you see her?!"
It was as if Serah saw no one but Snow. Unlike Snow and Nabaat, she never paid any attention to Lightning. Never turned at the sound of her voice.
She pushed through the crowd to try and catch up to the trio. She would be damned if she let Snow get away.
I'll kill you.. i'll kill you for hurting my sister!
Loud footsteps were then heard behind Lightning. She froze in place and looked back, but saw nothing. The steps became louder. Sounds of rusty mechanical parts moving became audible. It creaked as it stepped. Her head turned left and right, but she soon turned foward to chase Snow again. Her eyes widened at the bigger than normal juggernaut in front of her. She stepped back only to bump into another behind her. Her head turned left and right again. Now two juggers stood to her sides, behind her, next to her, and in front her. All pointed their machine guns at her. Lightning's hands clenched. One wrapped around a solid object. Her eyes darted down and locked on her gunblade. She rose it, but it was as if that action made the machines activate. They opened fired without mercy.
Lightning's arms flew up as a shield. No pain ever surfaced. Her eyes opened slightly. All the bullets were missing her, but soon a cracking noise became audible around her. Her eyes locked under her. The dark ground she was standing on was starting to break, like thin ice would. Her eyes widened.
No.. no..
She didn't have a chance to make another move. One more bullet pierced the ground and shattered it completely. Soon her body was free falling into nothingness. Nothing to hold onto. She snapped her fingers to activate her grav-con unit, but nothing happened.
This is it.. this is how I die..
A bright light surfaced within the abyss she had fallen into. The light became to strong. Lightning closed her eyes tightly.
Nothing ever came.
She soon opened her eyes and found herself laying on her stomach around an all white landscape. She tried standing but found it difficult to even breathe. Her eyes widened. She now laid in a pool of blood.
Who's blood is thi- Drops of blood dripped down her chin as she lifted her head. Its mine? But.. the machines never hit me. Lightning coughed. More blood splattered on the once white ground.
Laughing surfaced. She turned her head to that direction. Snow stood there with a cocky grin.
"You say you want to protect Serah?!" Snow asked. "Look at yourself! You can't even protect yourself!" Lightning tried to counter only for blood to slip out. Snow laughed hysterically. "You're pathetic, Sis! She's better off with me and you know it!"
No.. she's not safe with you.. she's not.. Lightning groaned at the pain on her front. Did I brake my ribs from the fall? Did the juggernauts' attack puncture my organs? But how come I never felt any pain, until now?!
Lightning's head fell as she felt it become like iron. Her eyes locked on the blonde male as he continued to laugh.
One blink and he vanished.
This can't be how I die.. Not like this.. I need to stand up. There is still so much I have to do..
Lightning fought it with all her might but her eyes refused to stay open. Even as she heard footsteps approaching, they remained closed.
"You are pathetic.."
Fang? No.. it can't be her.. She wouldn-
Lightning gave a blood curling scream as her body was kicked and turned on its back side. The immense pain opened her eyes. She immediately locked them up with the Pulsian who gave her a look filled with such hatred. Fang mounted the soldier. A strong hand gripped at her GC inner shirt to pull her up.
"Thats it then?! You're just gonna call it quits?!" Fang growled. "All that damn work for nothin'! That advice i gave you and the time i spent on you?!"
"I-I.. cant.. Fang.." Lightning wheezed, shocked at how hoarse her voice sounded. "It hurts too much, Fang.."
"Pathetic.." Fang repeated before smirking. "I knew it.. you're a lost fucking cause."
"Fang.."
"Your little sister is better off."
"Then just leave me alone Fang.. I dont need you. I never needed you." Lightning growled
"You want a deathwish, right? All this time all you wanted was this, right?!
A jab struck Lightning's left cheek. The hand that had gripped her now struck her right cheek. The onslaught of punches began. Each crack a bone on her face before moving down and even shattering her chest plate. No mercy came from the woman Lightning recently titled as her lover. Lightning grunted and shut her already swelling eyes. Lightning could do nothing, but take the harsh strikes. Her arms felt like blocks of iron. She couldnt rise them to counter or defend.
The punches came to a sudden halt. Only Lightning's wheezing could be heard.
"Know what.. I rather leave ya alive. Killing you would only bring you peace, wouldn't it?" Fang growled. Lightning opened one eye. The once white room was now becoming black again. Only the Pulsian could be seen. Her stare was dark and cold. The gentleness that she had once showed the soldier was no longer anywhere to be seen.
"Just.. just end it.." Lightning managed to whisper.
Fang smirked. Lightning's eyes widened. In a split second, Fang's lance appeared before lunging down. The sharp blade missed Lightning's left eye by a hair, but she knew Fang had missed on purpose.
"Killing you would be saving you. For failing to protect Serah.. you'll watch her be happy all by your bloody self." One blink and Fang's blade as well as Fang was gone, but her voice was heard one more time. "Such a lost cause.. what a damn shame."
"Leave.. I dont need you.. I never.. needed you.." Lightning grunted as she turned back to her stomach.
I dont need anyone.. i'll make it alone and help Serah..
The soldier managed to raise to her feet only to fall down on her knees in the next second.
Little hands landed on the ground for support. Eyes widened as the hands were then brought up.
Whats going on? I.. who am I? Lightning's eyes locked down at the ground that reflected her image. I'm a child again? And I'm..
Tears fell on the puddle like floor, creating small wave like vibrations that shook away the image.
The child by the name of Claire soon curled up against a corner as she cried softly. She could hear laughter in the distance. Joy that belonged to her sister and Snow. Along side them was Vanille and Fang as well had joined them.
They dont need me..
"I heard her say it. Serah said, it was your fault, Lightning. It was your fault, Serah left."
The child cried harder as Fang's voice entered her ears. She shook furiously. Her small palms rubbed at the never-ending tears.
"Oh dear.."
"Claire, there you are.."
"We've been looking for you, Claire."
The soothing voices made Claire's head snap up. Her giant blue eyes locked up. Her heart tightened at the sight before her.
"Mommy.. Daddy.." Her voice squeaked out.
Her mother smiled sweetly before taking her into her arms.
Claire snuggled against her mother. She took in her warmth and the faint scent of lavender she would always have.
"Dearest Claire.. why do you cry?" Her mother asked.
"Mommy, I failed.. I wasnt a good sister. Serah.. I didnt take care of her." Claire whimpered. "I promised I would. I promised you, Mommy.."
"But you did take care of Serah. You took good care of her."
"Then why does she hate me? Why wont she listen to me?"
"She doesnt hate you, Claire. You have taken good care of her, but now its her time to live her own life and you as well."
"But I want to protect her!"
"And you will, but be her protector not her decider. Be there to support her with whatever she decides. To comfort her when she makes mistake in life. Be the sister Serah always wanted, Claire."
"Mommy.."
"We're very proud of you, Claire." Her father finally spoke as he ran his index finger down one of Claire's cheeks.
"Daddy.."
The three hugged. In mere seconds the young Claire was once again her own age. Her parents held her still before pulling away.
"You two have grown to be very beautiful and intelligent women. We're proud of you both. Like Serah, Claire.. its time you started your own life." Her mother said with a smile.
"But how do i.. I dont even.."
"Just be honest with others, but most importantly be honest with yourself." Both said in sync.
Lightning gasped lightly as the two began to fade before her very eyes. She reached out to them and saw her hand go through them.
"Wait.. dont go please.."
"It is not the time for our reunion, Claire. We will always be here waiting for the two of you, but now is not the time Claire. Live.. Live your life, Claire."
Lightning nodded before closing her eyes. Tears ran down her cheeks.
Be honest..
"I.. I don't want to be alone." Lightning whispered before making her voice louder. Her eyes rose as her hands clenched tightly against her chest. "Fang.. I.. I need you... please come back.."
"I never left.." Strong arms wrapped behind the soldier. Such warmth surrounded her. Fang pressed her cheek against Lightning's. "I was simply waiting for you. I still am, Lightning."
"What do you mean, Fang.." Lightning turned while in the Pulsian's arms. She was shocked to find her crying. "Fang.."
"Lightning, you need to wake up.." Fang whispered.
"What do you mean? I am awake.."
"Please wake up, Lightning." Fang cupped Lightning's cheeks before pressing her forehead against hers. "-ake up, Ligh-ing."
Lightning's eyes widened in horror, as her arms went through the now static like Fang. Fang still moved her lips, but nothing surfaced. Only a beeping noise came forth now.
"Fang! Dont go! Fang!"
Lightning's eyes stung from the tears that build, but she refused to blink. She knew that if she did, Fang's image would vanish just like everyone else.
"I dont want to be alone.. I'm scared.. I dont want to be alone.."
The image of Fang began to deny the laws of gravity as she began to float upwards.
"Wake up.. -or me.."
Lightning reached up for the Pulsian, shocked that even while transparent, their fingers laced together. A bright light glowed behind the huntress. Lightning's eyes burned with a blinding light, but she refused to close them.
"Take me with you, Fang.."
And Fang did. Now the two floated upwards. The strong arms once again Lightning's frame. The light became stronger until it blinded the soldier, yet the soldier no longer felt fear. . .
Palumpolum (1 month later)
Vanille stretched as she got up from the chair she had been sitting for what seemed like hours. She sighed quietly, remembering she was in the college's massive library. While she spread out from the rest, she still respected the rules.
I finished a little earlier than I thought I would! I can get home early and make a meal for Hope before he returns from work. Vanille nodded at her plan as she packed up. Fang returns tomorrow and I've got my test scores in. Aced everything! She'll be so proud. A small pang hit her heart. Proud...but not happy? I wonder if Lightning will ever come out of her coma. . .
She opened the library door and looked up at the giant blue sky. A small smile returned to her lips.
"No.. I have a feeling she will and I have a feeling it'll be soon! So lets enjoy the rest of this beautiful day!" She let a small giggle. "I cant wait to get home!"
Minutes later Vanille arrived to her home. Her brows shot up a bit as she saw Hope's car in their driveway. She stopped and checked her phone. No messages had been sent to it nor had calls been missed.
Maybe he just got home?
Vanille shrugged and opened her front door. She placed her bookbag and purse on a small table they had in the hallway.
"Hope?" Vanille called. "I'm home!"
No answer. Vanille tilted her head to one side before shrugging again.
Maybe hes taking a nap.. ooh, he must have been so tired, my poor Hope.
She headed upstairs. Steps in she came to abrupt halt. Noises could be heard in the distance. Noises that made Vanille's heart speed up before clenching tightly. She summoned the courage to make her way to their bedroom door which was slightly opened.
Her eyes widened at the sight before them. A naked woman was mounted on Hope, riding him like if they were in some sort of adult movie. Her eyes manage to trail up towards her husband. He was chained up to the head of their bed.
"You like it rough, don't you, you cute stud.." The woman asked in a husky voice.
"Morngh.. I wan.."
Vanille shook her head at the sight. Hope couldn't even speak with how much he was enjoying it. She couldn't take it any longer, but instead of interrupting she found herself running down her stairs.
No.. Hope, this isnt.. this cant be happening! You told me you loved me!
Bhodum Train Station
Fang eagerly stepped out of the train. For once she was happy to set foot back on Cocoon. She shivered at the thought.
Happy to be back in Cocoon? Fang sighed softly.
"What a girl does to me.." Fang chuckled softly before frowning.
Her eyes lowered.
Lightning hasnt woken up yet.. but at least I'm here, in case she does. No, when she wakes up.
Fang scanned the area surprised Vanille was nowhere to be seen. Vanille was always one to be on time. Fang found it strange her little sister was late for their reunion.
She said two days ago she had big news for me.. Two wiffs of it actually..
Fang sighed and crossed her arms as she waited.
It felt as if half an hour had passed. Finally Vanille arrived. Fang sprang up from the bench she had been sitting on. Her brows pushed together slightly at the condition her sister appeared to be. The usual prancing and bright Vanille looked exhausted and defeated. Something was wrong.. Something bad.
"Vanille, you okay?" Fang asked as she placed a hand on Vanille's shoulder. The younger woman flinched slightly before stepping back a bit, leaving Fang to worry even more. "Vanille.."
"Yeah.. sorry, just a lot testing and school is just so tiring. I slept in and so.. Thats why I was late, sorry."
Slept in? Fang thought.
On the contrary, Vanille looked as if she hadnt slept in days. Then the jumbled explanation, sounded more like an excuse.
"Ya said you had big news for me?" Fang asked as they walked to Vanille's car.
"Yeah, aced all my tests and classes." Vanille said rather quickly and no emotion whatsoever.
"Thats great! Im proud of you, Vanille." Fang said with a grin. "Ya said you had two things to tell me though.."
"Did I?" Vanille asked as she started her car. Fang nodded. "I dont think I did. Sorry, I think I forgot.."
"Hmn, maybe I misheard you.."
"Yeah.. that could be it."
The entire drive was left in complete silence.
Fang shot glances at Vanille. Something was definitely off with her. Vanille was not one to lie to Fang, but it felt as if she was doing it now and with no hesitation. It bothered Fang to no extent. What would be so bad as to hide from your own sister?
Fang's eyes shot foward and widened. She suddenly reached for the steering wheel and spun it to the right avoiding a collision between a delivery truck, who honked loudly in response.
"Shit, Vanille! Ya almost killed us!" Fang yelled in anger and shock.
"I did?" Vanille blinked in confusion.
"Vanille.. what the hell is up with you?"
"Nothing.. nothing is wrong. Will you stop asking me that?" Vanille asked as she pushed her brows together.
"Well.. Its just we almost crashed. Something is distracting you. Something you arent telling me. You never hide things from me and you know i share things with you. Whether good or bad, so-"
"I said nothing is wrong so shut up already, will you?!" Vanille snapped.
Fang slightly sunk to her seat. Never had the younger Pulsian snapped at Fang in such a manner. Fang only nodded in response. Though she honestly wanted to make Vanille stop the car so that they could speak. But all in due time. They had arrived at the hospital.
Fang got out and walked towards the hospital. She stopped when she heard no footsteps behind her. She turned and saw her sister still seated in the car. Still gripping the steering wheel. Fang noticed her hands were shaking. They gripped the wheel so tightly her knuckles were turning white.
"Vanille, you coming?" Fang asked after returning to the car.
"I'm sorry I yelled at you.." Vanille whimpered.
"Its alright."
"Its not!" Vanille quickly said.
"Its happens. Its perfectly normal Vanille. When someone pents up so much anger it just comes out when they least expect it."
"But you're not the one I'm angry at.." Vanille mumbled.
"So who is it then.." Fang asked carefully.
Vanille shook her head and got out of the car. She walked towards the hospital, never replying to the huntress.
In no time at all Fang and Vanille stood in front of the soldier. Fang frowned. Lightning still hadn't woken up. A big part of her wished Lightning had been awake, but she was still as Fang left her. Fang let out a shaky breath before walking towards the sleeping soldier.
"Lightning...I'm back.." Fang whispered as one of her fingers glided down one of Lightning's cheeks. "I missed you so much, did you miss me?" Fang let out a forced chuckle. "Bet you're dreaming about kicking my ass back when I caught you off guard with all those goblins. Our rematch is still on, you..." Fang clenched her jaw. She could already feel her tears building again. She tenderly cupped the soldier's pale cheeks. "You just have to wake up, Lightning. Please wake up.."
It took Fang several minutes to stop her stream of tears. The two Pulsians sat in the room filled with silence. Fang's eyes never left the soldier. Vanille's were casted down on the ground. Vanille let out a small breath.
"Fang.."
"Yeah?"
"I'm pregnant.."
Fang's eyes widened. She quickly turned her head towards Vanille.
"You're what?" Fang whispered sharply.
"I'm pregnant with Hope's child." Vanille repeated.
"Well I know its the brat's kid, but really? Honestly?!" Fang was now up on her feet. "I'm going to be an aunt?! And you... you're going to be a mother... bloody hell.. you're going to be a mother.." Fang fell on her chair as the news hit her a second time. Vanille was definitely not only her little sister, no, she was a grown woman. Fang looked over at Vanille, who still looked in so much pain. "This is great news.." Vanille only nodded. "So, why arent you happy?"
Vanille remained quiet again. Except this time she began to shake, as if the room itself was cold. Fang reached over, only for Vanille to stand and walk away.
"Vanille?"
Vanille struggled to keep herself together. She couldnt the pain anymore. The images of Hope and the woman were haunting her. She tensed as she felt Fang behind her. A hand landed on her shoulder and Vanille finally broke down. She turned and slammed into Fang's chest, burying herself in it.
"He.. he cheated on me, Fang." Fang's eyes widened at the words Vanille finally released. "Hope cheated on me. I'm pregnant and he.. he cheats on me!"
"When.." Fang growled softly.
"Just yesterday.. I was going to tell him I'm pregnant. I got home early and I found him in our bedroom with some other woman and.. why would he cheat on me, Fang?!" Vanille sobbed. "I'm a good wife, arent I? He said I made him happy and that he loves me and.. and were they all lies?!"
"This isnt your fault, Vanille. No way in hell is this your fault." Fang hugged her sister tighter.
"Then why, Fang.. why.. I must have done something wrong. Maybe he wasnt satisfied in bed or maybe because I not pretty.. maybe.."
"Shh.. no more of that.." Fang said in a comforting tone as she shook her head over Vanille's.
"I feel so embarrassed. So ashamed to be a woman.. a wife. I couldnt even keep my husband happy. Fang.. I.."
"No more of that, Vanille. This isn't your fault." Fang repeated. "You're perfect, you're beautiful.. anyone, man or woman would be lucky to have you. Trust me, Vanille."
"I just.. I feel so betrayed.. so alone.."
"You're not alone.." Fang whispered. "I will never leave you, Vanille. I promise, I will always be here for you."
It killed Fang to see her words brought no comfort to her little sister. She continued to cry into her. She shook vigoriously as Fang held her. Now Fang understood how Lightning felt when she saw Snow kissing another woman. Why the soldier felt so angry and reacted the way she did. Seeing a loved one get hurt by one they thought they could trust..
I'll kill him.. I'll bloody castrate him, feed his dick to a Behemoth and kill him! Fang thought as an anger she had never felt in her life began to boil within her chest.
Slowly, very slowly eyes opened bit by bit. A burning pain surfaced making the eyes close again. Until a soft whisper was heard. The voice was all too recognizable. Such warmth, like in the dream.. The eyes opened again. This time they remained opened even while in pain. They moved to their right and saw a heart monitor. They glanced to their left and saw a giant bouquet of roses.
Stay Strong, Claire. Was written on a small card.
"I will never leave you, Vanille. I promise, I will always be here for you."
The eyes shifted to their lower left corner. There two figures stood. Fang and Vanille. Embracing one another. Vanille cried into the Fang's chest, while Fang held Vanille as if Vanille's life depended on it.
"Fang..?" The awaken soldier finally croaked with all her strength.
AN: Plotholes, plotholes everywhere! :O lol
No worries, everything will be explained in due time.
Anyways sorry for the wait. Had a little trouble with this chapter. -_-' But I hope you guys enjoy it.. D: