And so an update has come!

Puppy Love: How can Hope help himself? He survived what no other man could after all! :)

Hope's Light: Yeah, I seem to have this thing for causing Snow pain. Hm... But I liked putting Lightning in a dress!

Broken Hope: I know right? The last thing they need is to have a nice night ruined.

Naoto07: Yeah, they forgave each other! Kinda... And I was tempted to start a cat fight. *giggle* But I figured Lightning would have more self-control.

So yeah, this chapter is really long! I hope you all enjoy it! And thank you all for the support so far, it makes me really happy to hear! And thanks to the silent readers as well! I hope you all like this chapter. I am a little nervous. But I'll leave it up to you! Thank you. Now please enjoy!

P.S. I had to write a song. I have no idea why I think I can write songs, I sat there, agonizing. Forgive me.

"They really went all out didn't they?" Snow said as they piled out of the cab, grinning at the large building that lit up the whole area. People were already heading inside, chatting happily amongst each other, hints of curiosity in their voices. Many were from different divisions of the military, although a few political figures were mixed among the suits and dresses. Hope and Light stepped out of the car and followed Snow and Serah, Maqui and Lebreau behind them.

"This'll be fun!" Lebreau said, hugging Maqui's arm. The blond blushed lightly at the contact and refused to look at Lebreau. Lightning smirked as she watched the two, but looked around at Hope as he tensed. Hope stared off into the crowds, jaw tight and muscles stiff, and Lightning shook him lightly.

"Wha-" he looked at Lightning as if just remembering she was there...or where he was, and gave her an apologetic smile. "Must have zoned out again..." he said weakly as he glanced around the crowds again. It was starting to thin as they went inside the building, but Hope stiffened every time someone happened to brush against him.

"Hope, what's wrong?"

He swallowed, not looking her in the eye, and shrugged, "It's nothing Light. I'm just worried about this whole...party thing. I mean, they're gonna talk about us...but Rygdea refused to tell me what he was gonna say. It'll probably be embarrassing." Lightning's eyebrows rose but Hope turned away from the look. Holding in a frustrated sigh, she allowed herself to be steered toward the rest of NORA who waited at the front doors. Sazh and Dajh were there as well, smiling at them.

"Bout time you got here. I was starting to worry I'd be stuck here with these oddballs."

"Hey!" Yuj said, whipping around. But Sazh only gave him a smile, his son chuckling beside him.

"It's good to have everyone here." Snow interrupted, seeing the fury in Yuj's face, "So let's try not to kill each other so soon."

Gadot snorted, "Wow, who knew you'd take this seriously."

"Of course I'm taking this seriously."

"What kind of music do you think they'll play? I hope it's not all slow stuff, I want to actually have some fun."

"Dajh, I thought I told you not to go by the Chocobo before we came here! You have feathers on your suit!"

"But dad! Come one! It was just to pet him, nothing serious!"

"Ooce! Ooce!"

Lightning closed her eyes, desperate to block out the stares they were now receiving as the group erupted into arguments and long winded theories of how the night would turn out. She spared a glance at Hope, but he seemed too far away to notice the others arguing, so she cleared her throat.

"As fun as it is to stand out here talking about the party, don't you think we should actually go inside?" It quieted down considerably at this and Snow's nervous laughter was feeble in the silence. Serah smiled, rolling her eyes as she walked inside.

"Way to be social Claire." she mumbled as she passed her sister. Lightning pulled on Hope's arm, jerking him out of his stupor as she led them inside. They were immediately met with an uncomfortable heat, the bodies in the one room creating more than enough heat to combat the air conditioning. Not that anyone else seemed bothered by it, much to Lightning's annoyance.

"Want to find a seat Light?" Hope asked, smiling slightly as he noticed her discomfort. If he didn't bring it up, she'd try and stick it out. Why she's want to escaped him...

For you maybe...?

Hope almost snorted. In his dreams maybe...but...that didn't stop him from...wishing.

"All right." she said simply, allowing him to lead her through the crowd. However, a hand came down on Hope's shoulder, making him jump. He took a sharp breath and slowly turned around, eying Rygdea with something close to fury.

The man straightened himself out, toying with the cuffs of his suit, "Sorry about that. The reserved tables are that way." The scruffy man pointed toward several tables on the left side of the room. Hope nodded but it was interrupted when Lightning jerked him forward, almost pushing people out of the way to get to the tables. People quickly gave her a wide berth, not wanting to cross paths with the determined soldier. Her temper seemed to carry beyond just work with some of the looks she got as they passed.

Holding back a snicker, Hope pulled out a chair for Lightning once they reached the simple, but elegantly decorated tables. It was covered by a plain white table cover, almost silk to the touch, and Hope already felt fear at the thought of having to eat there. It would be so easy to stain it...

Hope sat down as well, ignoring the look Lightning was giving him in favor of playing with the centerpiece; a simple arrangement of dark red and blue flowers. As he played with the petals he had a sneaking suspicion they were fake...and had to resist an eye roll. All out his ass.

The eyes boring into him quickly distracted him though, and he gave Light a sheepish smile, "What is it Light?"

She continued to stare at him, considering her words before she finally spoke, "You're nervous..." Hope forced himself to swallow and looked away from her, painfully aware of how hot his face was. And he knew he couldn't blame it on the room.

"Why?"

"I just...don't do well with crowds..." Not entirely a lie...

"Hope..." Hope took a shuddering breath, wanting to make this night better. The direction it was heading in would make that hard...and his thoughts not only drifted to that brief time he saw...well...her. It also went to the confession, the words he had so desperately spoken. The great... "I love you." And he knew he wasn't the only one thinking about it...but he couldn't help but feel he had to do something about it. He was the one who had confessed after all. But how was he...

No...he had to let her know...but for now-for now he'd like to have tonight. He glanced at her again, eyes softening as she looked around for her sister and her husband, and the words were out before he could stop them, "You look really...pretty Light."

Lightning slowly looked back at him, eyes wide, and Hope felt his throat tighten and cheeks flare up. He looked away, tapping his fingers on the table, and silence seemed to engulf them. Even with all the chatter in the room...they alone seemed to have succumbed to an embarrassing silence that Hope desperately wished would end...

"Thanks Hope..."

"S-Sure..."

And that wasn't what he had in mind when he thought that. His eyes scanned the crowds, begging Snow, Serah, Rygdea, Lebreau, Maqui, even Yuj to show up and save him. His desperate pleas seemed to hit home, as Serah and Snow were making their way toward them, Hazel holding her mother's hand. So far, the white dress the little toddler wore was unstained.

But for how long?

"There you two are. Rygdea just showed us where our tables were. He said everyone will be seated soon, then he'll make the announcement." Serah said, sitting beside her sister and propping Hazel on her lap. Snow sat beside her, grinning as he began to fiddle with the plates.

"I hope we get some food soon." he commented, looking a little sadly at the clean white plate. He looked up when no one said anything, and saw that not only was Lightning stiff...but nervous as well. Stiff was one thing, sis would never loosen up, but nervous? And Hope didn't look much better...his face was all red. That didn't make sense...it was actually pretty cool where they were. "What's with you two?" he asked, unaware of the incredulous look Serah sent him.

Hope jumped, nearly knocking a glass cup over, and shook his head, "Nothing's wrong. J-Just thinking about-about the speech...is all..." he finished lamely. Snow shrugged, looking around and waving when he saw the NORA gang heading toward them. Glad for the distraction, Hope slumped into his chair, looking very sullen. Way to go mouth...and what about you brain? Decided to go on a brief vacation just long enough to make talking to Light absolutely impossible!

"Hope..." Light muttered, making his cheeks flare up again. He looked t her, mouth dry, but she wasn't looking him in the eye, "Thank you again...for the compliment." A shaky breath just barely made its way out of his mouth and he smiled. She glanced at him out of the corner of her eyes and Hope could have sworn he saw a light tinge of pink on her cheeks. Or was it his imagination? "You look nice as well..."

Mind suddenly going blank, he barely managed to get a word out, "Th-Thanks..."

Serah watched the exchange but had no chance to comment as the NORA gang finally sat with them, filling up their table. The noise level increased and Serah began to fight with the wriggling Hazel as she reached for anything and everything on the table. She nearly knocked over the centerpiece as her little hands fumbled with the tablecloth. Hazel gave a small tug, some of the glass wobbling slightly, and Serah searched desperately for something to distract her with.

Giggling drew her attention back to Hazel, but she was surprised to see a pair of goggles in her hands. She stretched the strap, clearly enjoying the new toy, which Serah realized Hope had handed to her. She smiled her thanks, even as Maqui began to protest, but it ceased when Hazel gave another giggle.

"Fine..." the blond mumbled, pouting slightly as he watched his goggles be toyed with, "Yuj wasn't going to let me wear them anyway." Lebreau rolled her eyes at her escort's attitude, fiddling with glass in front of her.

"You look nice without them anyway." she said, "I mean, goggles aren't something you wear to this sort of thing, techie or not." Maqui was too busy blushing to attack her for the insult, looking down at his lap. "I hope this isn't the only music they plan on playing, I want to be able to enjoy myself. Something fast you know?"

"Yuj, why didn't you get a date?" Snow asked, a hint of teasing in his voice. The blue haired man was undisturbed, only giving him a shrug.

"I was too busy. It is not as if I'm the only one here who doesn't have one."

"But I thought-"

"Gadot doesn't have one either. I talked with Rygdea about it, and he says it's fine. You will have to go do the first dance in our stead anyway."

"Wh-What?" Hope and Light looked at each other, clearly nervous again. They took a deep breath, and Lightning smoothed herself out. But she could not keep the edge out of her voice, "Why weren't we told?"

"I thought it'd be a given." Yuj said, shrugging again. But there was a hint of a smile on his face as he turned to Serah, "I'd be more than willing to watch Hazel for you when you and Snow go up."

Gadot chuckled beside him, shaking his head, "Yeah right, you'd be way too worried about her worrying your suit. I don't know why you went with white anyway Yuj, it's way easier to stain. I'll watch her Serah." Yuj didn't say anything, face dark but conceding that his friend had a point.

"H-hey, where'd Sazh and Dajh go?"

"Rygdea said he wasn't able to get them reserved seats with us. We were able to because we're part of the new branch, and you guys are family, but since Sazh is still in piloting, he can't...well..."

"Well I'll just have to find him." Snow nodded to himself and began to scan the people, looking for two familiar afros. "Ha! There they are!" he smiled and waved at them, standing up when he wasn't sure they saw. The others followed soon after, the exception being Lightning as she nodded in their direction. "Do you think Sazh got the feathers off of Dajh?" Snow snickered as he sat back down.

"How big is that thing anyway? Sazh was complaining about space the other day, and he even brought it here..."

"I know! I don't get why. It's be easier it just let him have a sitter."

"But you know Dajh, he loves that bird."

Their conversation continued, Hope and Lightning gradually contributing more as they got more comfortable, and the tables began to fill up. Soon the lights were dimmed, the chatter dying down with the exception of Snow and the NORA gang, but a quick elbow from Serah silenced him. The sound of a microphone's buzzing filled the room and their heads turned toward a small stage. Rygdea stood there, tapping into the microphone, along with Lt. Amodar and several other military officials.

"Kay...is it working...?" Rygdea mumbled into the microphone only to have it echo through the room. Chuckling came back at him and Rygdea smiled, "Guess so then. Well, good evening everyone. Glad you all could make it to this little celebration. But most of you are probably wondering what this is even about, right?" The lights gradually turned off, leaving only a spotlight on Rygdea.

"Well, to put it simply, you've all been having those C'ieth attacks right? A few close calls...lost a few men..." A small silence followed before Rygdea started again, "Needless to say, it's a problem. But that's where I come in. See, turns out, we've got problems like yours, and we know who's responsible. It's all a matter of finding this person and what they're up to. I figured the best way to do that is to go to you guys. Strength in numbers you see?"

"Leave it to Rygdea to just roll it all out like that..." Maqui mumbled, earning a snicker from Lebreau.

"Now we're working together, and this party is here to celebrate the new branch we've gone and put together for it. Which wouldn't have been put together so quickly if not for these guys!" Rygdea motioned behind him, the spotlight resting on Lt. Amodar and the others for several moments as clapping began.

"Now we've got a suitable force together, making the S. C. E. branch official." Rygdea continued, smiling wider.

"S. C. E.?" Yuj mumbled.

"Saorise C'ieth Eradication branch." Hope whispered.

"No one will remember that." Yuj grumbled.

"And the members, as some of you are aware, have already been chosen! If the people at the white tables wouldn't mind standing for their round of applause." The spotlight was now roaming over them and several other tables. They all stood, revealing fifty or so people, rather small for an eradication branch. Some people seemed to agree, the claps slow and quiet.

"Thanks guys, go ahead and sit down." Chairs scrapped together as they complied but Rygdea went on, "However folks, that's not the only reason we're here. Some of us were former members of the Cavalry, a name I'm sure most of you remember. And thought were wiped out. Some of you may heard, others may not, but we've gone ahead and come back. I would like to extend an apology to the families and friends who thought we were dead...and hope you are willing to celebrate our return to society." Rygdea finished, looking a little solemn. There was silence for a few moments before steady clapping began, causing the gruff man to smile, "But I bet some of you are wondering just who those people are right?"

"No..." Hope mumbled, burying his head in his hands.

"Let's have them stand up so you can give them a proper greeting." The spotlight rounded on them again and Hope cursed under his breath. His arm was yanked up by Lebreau and soon he was standing with them. Resisting the overwhelming urge to roll his eyes, he waited as the crowd clapped for them and twenty-two others. It was still clear that the guests were wondering why there were so few people for a branch like this, but Rygdea gave no sign that he was going to tell.

"Now I'm sure you're all tired of me talking. And all that happy briefing shit can wait until the actual meeting." Rygdea said, ignoring some glares he received from the officials. "So how about we get our little orchestra going and have us some dancing? And first dance will go to the members of the S. C. E.!" Rygdea laughed, motioning toward a small group of cellist and violinists, the spotlight falling on them as they began to play. "Nothing like a little fancy music right?" Rygdea joked before heading off the stage.

Still feeling as if they spotlight were on him, Hope turned to Lightning and tried to stop his heart's pounding as he held out his hand. She looked up at him, her expression unreadable, and for one frightening moment Hope thought she'd say no. But her hand slipped into his and she allowed him to pull her up, remaining silent as he led them to the center of the room. Serah and Snow were already dancing, Snow holding onto Serah as he let her guide him through the steps. Lebreau and Maqui were there as well, Lebreau snickering slightly as Maqui put a hand on her hip. But it turned into a real smile as he slowly but steadily began to lead her through the music.

Taking a deep breath, Hope shakily placed his hand on Lightning's own hip, his other still in her hand. He tried not to jump as she placed a hand on his shoulder, and steadily began to move through the music. The notes floated to them, slow and sure, the melody almost like a calming hum to him. He could lose himself in this music...and as he looked into Lightning's eyes...he knew he could lose himself there too.

Still nervous, he tried to keep his face as stoic as she did as they took their steps. One after the other, Lightning surprisingly elegant, and Hope swallowed as he prayed he wouldn't screw up.

"Hope..." her voice was like a whisper, but he jumped as if she shouted at him, "Just relax, you're doing fine."

He looked into her eyes, finding the truth in them, and gave her a slow nod as he finally allowed his muscles to relax. He took a deep breath and tightened his grip on her hand, giving her a small smile. "Thank you Light..." he whispered, leaning in slightly. He felt her grip tighten but forced himself to keep calm. He focused on the music, almost letting his eyes flutter shut, and managed to smile even wider.

"You're a good dancer Hope." Light said as he brought her out, then into his arms, then out again as they resumed position.

"Thanks Light...Lebreau taught me..." Lightning felt a twinge of annoyance but squashed it down. It was nothing new, the woman had even told her so herself. "It helped me with stress...whenever we had time at De Novo. It helped...more than I let on I think..." His eyes became sad, dropping slightly, and Lightning increased her grip.

"If it helped you...then good."

"But you surprised me Light." Hope said, smiling mischievously, "You never struck me as a dancer."

"Hmph."

"But I'm glad you surprised me." She felt his breath ghost her neck and had to fight back a shiver. He was leaning in now as they finished the dance. While it was part of the pattern, they both felt the others' heart speed up. As the final chords echoed, Hope slowly straightened them back out, blushing slightly.

"Quite the dance Hope." she said, "But I think I'm ready for some food."

"I hear ya." he said as he followed her back to their table, even as some other couples stood to dance. They heard Yuj complaining as they approached.

"They go to the trouble to set up these nice tables but decide to have the food on the other side of the room? What is wrong with them?" he growled and grabbed his plate, but Hope grabbed his shoulder before he could escape.

"Just give me a second. I need some too." He turned, prepared to offer grabbing Lightning some food, but the woman had already grabbed her plate and was heading toward the tables. Holding back a sigh but smiling despite himself, he reached back and grabbed Hazel's plate and glass instead. He did have a promise to fulfill after all. But the crowds he had to endure almost made him pull out.

His return was marked with a happy squeal from Hazel and she eyed the cup of juice in Hope's hand. Lightning watched as he carefully set her food and his own up, nibbling on the small steak in front of her. Hope smiled at her when he caught her eye before carefully holding the juice cup to Hazel's lips. He stopped though, making the girl start to sniffle, but he quickly reached around and tied a napkin around her neck. Then he gave her the cup again, slowly guiding some of the juice in her mouth, acting as if the world would implode if he made one mistake.

"If you don't want to spill any juice on her dress, don't give her any." Lightning said simply, taking a sip of her own bitter drink.

"I can't..." Hope mumbled, carefully taking the cup away and sighing in relief when he saw no stains, "I made a pinky promise." he smiled and nodded thanks as Gadot took over, preparing to feed the girl. Another perilous task in the face of the white dress she wore.

"Inki!" she said happily, thrusting her own pinky into the air. Gadot pulled his hand away just before any food could smear her dress, letting out a shaky breath.

"Why did they choose a white dress?" Gadot moaned, Hope nodding in agreement as he ate.

"They said it looked nice." Lightning said, "But she would have looked nice in a dark dress too...and it would be a lot harder to stain permanently. But you did a good job with the juice. She does get pretty cranky when she doesn't get it."

"Oni!" Hazel cried, sticking her tongue out at her, "Me no cw-ce-a-"

"Of course you don't Hazel." Lightning said before the girl could try again. Hope laughed, playing with his food as a new song started.

"Snow and Serah?" he asked as he took another bite. Things were calming down...it was turning out easier than he thought it would be.

Someone pushed into his chair and he stiffened. Maybe not that easy. He tried to concentrate on Lightning's voice, "They'll be here soon. They needed to get their food as well."

"R-Right." Another person bumped into his chair. He took a deep breath and focused himself to concentrate on his food now. He could handle the dance floor, he could handle this. But then again...you nearly freaked out at the buffet table too...damn crowds...

"Hey you guys! Enjoying yourselves?" Lebreau asked, plopping into her seat, "Maqui's getting us some food, he'll be here soon. See!" she said and Maqui sat down next to her.

"It's like a madhouse over there!" the blond shook his head, glancing at Hope. Lightning watched as Hope shook his head and Maqui's face seemed to relax. What was going on?

"Light?" she took a breath and looked at Hope, noting the slight concern in his eyes, "You okay?" she nodded, pushing her food away. She wasn't as hungry anymore...

"D-Do you want to dance again?" he asked, looking away.

She felt a smile tug at her lips before slipping her hand in his. "All right then." She looked away before she could see his surprised look, but Hope smiled as he let her lead him to the dance floor. The song was only slightly faster than the other they had danced to, but neither of them seemed to mind. Hope found breathing a little difficult...she seemed so relaxed now. He held on to her a little more tightly then he should, aware of the people that were all around them now, but Lightning seemed to sense his discomfort and steered them away.

"Thanks..." he breathed, feeling his blush intensify, "I'm not a big fan of crowds."

"I understand..." she said, swaying slightly with the music. She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, and Hope felt the lump return to his throat again. He didn't want this night to end. He didn't want to talk to her about what he had said all those years ago. He didn't want to ruin this night...

But as he watched her...he knew he owed her that much.

Two more songs passed with them on the dance floor. They hardly moved in time with the music, more in their own world than anything. Lightning would watch him, almost asking if he was really still there. And each step felt to her that he was. "Yes...I'm still here...I'm still here..." Their thoughts were filled with one another, whether they realized it or not, but the awkwardness between them was fading.

As the song ended, Hope felt his heart quicken again. He could barely take his eyes away from hers...they pierced him, dug into him. If he kept staring at them...he was sure she'd see everything about him. She'd see all that was good. But more than that...she would see what was wrong. The terrible things he had seen, the terrible things he had experienced, the terrible thing he had become. His insecurity washed over him, whispering in his ears, telling him that he was wrong. That he had no right to hold her like this. That he was a monster, tainted forever, and no amount of dancing with this women would fix it.

The sudden thought shook his to his core and he had to look away. Lightning's expression did not change, but on the inside her mind was whirring. Just what had gone wrong? Why was he looking away from her?

Why did he look so sad?

"Hope..."

"Light...can I talk to you? Somewhere...more private maybe?" Ignoring how her heart sped up and the foreboding feeling in her gut, she allowed Hope to take them to another room. They went down a darkened hallway, the music and chatting fading to the background as they stepped away. For a moment she thought they would enter a small closet, but Hope kept walking, almost desperate to get away. They turned and came upon another room, smaller than the other, with windows feeding the dark place moonlight. Hope's hand slipped out of hers and she watched as he went to one of the windows, gently pushing it open.

There was silence between them as they stared at anything but one another. Lightning waited for Hope to start, but he looked lost, uncertain. The moon made his pale skin glow...but Lightning could see the weariness there more than ever. Her breath caught at the sight, but concern quickly overrode her.

She was the first to break the silence, "What's wrong Hope?" The words were barely above a whisper, but the way they echoed in the room made it feel so much louder. "You've...been weird all night."

"Sorry..." his voice was a whisper but it carried to her.

"Is it about...Saorise?" Lightning tried, caution in her voice. Hope's head lowered slightly, but he did not answer right away. He studied the floor as if hoping the answer would come from there. But all it gave him was silence.

"Yeah..." he finally said, "It is...I guess. In a lot of ways it is..."

Silence...heavy silence...

"What did she do to you Hope?"

Was she the one asking that?

"A lot of things Light...I-I'll tell you...I hope I can tell you someday. But not now...I can't tell you now...I-I can't...not when she..." He closed his eyes and her voice came to him, mocking him, whispering the things he so hated. And what she said when he escaped...

Quod incepimus conficiemus!

Quod incepimus conficiemus...

"What we have begun we shall finish..." he whispered, hands tightening on the sill.

"Hope?"

Hope took a deep breath, pushing thoughts of Saorise from his mind as he turned to look at Lightning. His eyes softened as he watched her, feeling the fear from before ebb away into something much smaller. "Lightning...you remember don't you? What I said three years ago..."

Her heart was racing now...what was he thinking? Why was he even bringing it up? Why now?

"I know...I know I was young then...that I was d-dying..." She winced, his screams echoing in her head. But she focused on his voice now. The voice that was right in front of her. The voice that was still alive.

It sounded sad...

"I told you...that I loved you...and then-then I died..." But you aren't dead Hope... But as she looked at him...the way he looked at her...she knew. That Hope was dead. He was gone, lost in time, somewhere neither of them could reach. No matter how much they may have wanted to.

Hope was facing her now, head away from the window. He looked at her, green eyes shining with something that she couldn't understand. Couldn't read. And then he smiled...a heart-wrenching smile as his eyes shone, a shaky breath escaping him, "I told you I loved you...and I know...I know that you don't feel the same." Her mouth was so dry...so dry...

He looked so sad.

"And that's okay...I hardly expected you to...but I don't...I don't want it to mean that we can't-can't look at each other without feeling awkward. I don't-I don't want to give that up...I still...I still love you...and I don't think that...will ever change." His smile grew, his breaths shaky and sharp, "But I don't want you to feel...guilty for not feeling the way I do..."

Why does this hurt?

"I'm hoping Light...Claire..."

Why does this hurt so much?

"That you'll let me feel this way...from afar. Because...if you told me to, I'd let it go. I'd let it go if you'd smile..."

Don't say that...

"I didn't think...I'd ever see you again. And I have no right...to ask for anything else. But here I am, doing it anyway. I hope...you'll forgive me for that..." His smile was there again, his own thoughts racing even as he begged it to go numb.

It's strange...that the only time I can admit my feelings is when I can't have you. I mean...look at me, I'm just going to cause you trouble...I'm a total wreck. I know that. It's so...obvious. It hurts knowing how much trouble I can cause you.

Only trouble...

Asking for more than this...would be selfish.

"Hope..." She wanted to say something...anything...but all she could manage was a faint nod. And he looked so relieved...relieved that he could keep unrequited feelings alive. Happy that he'd get to love her from a distance. Never touching. Never knowing. Basking in its warmth, but knowing it is empty. No meaning on her end.

No one should be happy for that.

"I'm sorry...I didn't want to make it sound so sad...I just...I wanted you to be okay. Okay with this. But don't feel guilty...I'm doing this to myself...so don't feel guilty..." Hope was struggling now, trying to find the right words. But there were none. Nothing came to him. His mind was a mess, his emotions a jumble.

But he watched her and smiled. "Don't feel guilty..." he repeated, sounding pleading and walking toward her now, "Don't...don't worry about me. I do enough worrying...I just...I want you to be happy." He was right in front of her now, taking another shaky breath. He slowly raised his hand and caressed her cheek, the silence lost in light of the new and loud notes coming from the other room. Hope smiled now, small but true, and took her hand.

"How about another dance Light? One more..."

Lightning looked up at him, watching his eyes as they roved over her own face. She gripped his hand, wanting to say something. Her mouth parted as if she would, but no sound came out. Hope seemed to understand, squeezing her hand. She closed her mouth, not saying anything.

Hope hadn't expected her to.

"One more dance?" he asked again, trying to smile more. He tilted his head, eyes lightning up, "A fast one this time."

Her chest tightened up, words wanting to spill out and make everything clear again. To make it hurt less, to make Hope hurt less. But nothing came again. But she had to say something...

"Sure..." They both smiled this time and Hope led her back to the room, feet bouncing as they approached the music. It wasn't finished...the feelings still floated between them. Hope's words left them uncertain...Lightning more than him. But as Hope started to lead her again with the music, feet moving so fast that thoughts were lost. Even that moment faded for a time.

There was only them and the music.

Serah watched Hope and Lightning as they sat at the table, neither looking as happy as when the night had started. Hazel began to whine softly in her lap, pulling on her dress for attention, and she offered the girl her fingers, glancing as she began to suck them. Then her eyes returned to her sister, who glanced at Hope for what had to be the seventh time. Just what had happened? Before she had planned to ask about Hope because she had looked so happy dancing with him.

That had changed...but they still had to talk.

Hope didn't look much better. His eyes watched the party around him, but they seemed distant. His smile was forced. And the glances from Maqui and Lebreau only served to make her believe something was indeed wrong. And he was so...jumpy. Before she could understand...but whenever someone got too close...it was so much. He had even knocked over a glass of water. He looked wary of them now...eying the guests as if they would lash out at him.

"Serah, are you okay?" Snow asked, placing a gentle touch on her shoulder. She looked at him and smiled, but nodded toward Hope and Lightning. "What about them?" he whispered.

"They've been weird all night...I think something happened..."

"Ah..." Snow aid, leaning back so he could play with Hazel's hair, "Well...I'm sure you'll talk to sis about it. And I could try and get some answers from Hope later, if it'll help."

Serah smiled, her eyes lighting, and she gave Snow a kiss, "Thanks...I think they need it..."

The rest was interrupted as the lights dimmed yet again, the light focused on the stage. The chatter quieted as a woman stood up there, a bright smile on her face as she scanned the crowd.

"Who's that?" Maqui mumbled, watching the blond woman.

"Kayla Tinders. She's a great singer. I didn't know they'd get her though." Gadot whispered, smiling slightly, "So lucky!"

They quieted as they noticed the singer looking at them, her eyes lingered on all the S. C. E. tables, waving slightly at the newcomers. She stepped up to the microphone, clearing her throat.

"I would like to thank you all for this evening...it was great meeting everyone here. I've been watching you all night and I'm excited to see how you'll help us. And as a special goodbye, I'll be dedicating this new song to the S. C. E. I know you will all succeed and make us safe again. So without further adieu..."

She slowly stepped off the stage, breathing deeply before letting out the first few lines, the music starting as she walked.

"I saw you walking down that street

Head held high as we did meet

I wondered why you would

There was nothing there to celebrate...

But you smiled and said,

I'm alive!"

She began to walk toward the tables, hips swinging, and she leaned toward one of the soldiers,

"I was amazed by your admittance

I didn't believe your countenance

How could someone be so happy

For something so terribly simple,"

She moved on to the next few soldiers, singing in their ears. They smiled and laughed, some looking shy, others looking for more. She was coming up to Maqui and Hope's hands began to shake.

"But you just laughed and smiled

Saying I'd get it in a while-"

She was singing to Maqui now, but the blond was looking over at Hope. His breathing was coming on short, sharp gasps. Attention was steadily turning to him as the woman moved to him. He closed his eyes, feeling her breathing against his neck,

"You left me there...

But I think I get it now...

The importance of your words

And I love you for that"

No...please stop...

"I'm waiting here

On that street where we met

I want to see you

And tell you that I understand..."

The room was dim, illuminated only by the small flame in the corner. His breathing was harsh and loud, eyes roving, trying to find a way out. He had to escape...had to find a way out before...

"And the sun will shine on us...

Breath the importance of life-

"You have no idea...

How important you are..."

"The light that shines within me...

Is incomplete without you

So stay here forever

And we'll be together!"

He had to get away! She was right there! She'd send him back! Send him back! And the shouting...he could hear the shouting. But it was out there or back to that room!

"Hope!"

No...No! He would NOT go back! Not back in that room! He just got out! He had to get away. Please...please let him get away...

Someone grabbed his shoulder and he pushed them away, stumbling slightly. If he could just reach the door-

No Hope...no...you know that it isn't that...the party...remember the party...

The smell of burning flesh reached his nose and he held back the violent urge to vomit. It was thick...thick as the death that surrounded him. He bid the images of their faces to disappear...to leave them forgotten in the void that made it bearable. The void...let the void take him. He couldn't think about it And her singing...make it stop...please...

You're not there...

You're at a party...with a singer...you're safe Hope...

Help...help!

She grabbed his shoulder...her red eyes twinkling. She continued to sing, the words muddled by his panic. She dragged him toward the back of the cabin even as he struggled against her. Her magic was coiling around his arms...

I'm not there!

"Ah...Ah!" Hope cried, standing up and stumbling away from the tables. He could hear their cries, but when he opened his eyes, all he saw was the dimly lit cabin. He didn't want this...he didn't want this. He was safe...he was safe! But his body wouldn't quit shaking, his eyes were still glassed over. And no matter where he turned, all he saw was that cabin and the books. It was blurring...all of it was blurring...

He did the only thing he could think of, the last rope. The only person who knew...

"R-Rygdea..." he whispered, shaking off the threatening hands that came for him. First the performer backed the away, startled by his sudden reaction. Lightning was stepping toward him, wary of him as he slowly went to his knees. But Hope kept shaking his head...and her heart froze when she heard a dry sob, "Rygdea! RYGDEA! Please Rygdea! PLEASE!" His voice cracked as he called for him over and over, shaking all over. The man came rushing over, skidding to his knees in front of Hope and putting his arms on his shoulders.

"N-NO! GET OFF! OFF!"

"Hope!" Hope stopped screaming, but whines still escaped as he looked around, his gaze cloudy. "I'm right here Hope."

"R-Rygdea..." Hope cried softly, looking up, "Rygdea? You're here..."

"Yes Hope..."

"B-But I can't-can't see you-where? Where! I can't-"

"You're at the party Hope...Saorise isn't here...you're safe. Safe Hope." Rygdea soothed, not daring to touch Hope anymore until he got the okay. All eyes were on them, the entire room watching in horrific fascination as Hope struggled for control. Hope began to rock himself back and forth, whispering so only Rygdea could hear.

"I'm in that cabin Rygdea...she's gonna take-take me-to-to the room. I can't go back there...please don't let her. She'll do it again...she will."

"No Hope...no she won't..." Rygdea tried, trying to keep his own voice calm, "Do you want to leave Hope? I can get you out."

"R-Really?" His voice was in awe, as if taking him from this place would be a blessing. A true gift. Perhaps it was.

"Yes Hope...But you have to trust me..."

Hope looked up at him, eyes starting to clear. Rygdea could see some of Hope shining through...he was gaining control. But they still needed to get away. "I-I trust you...I trust you Rygdea...so please..." Hope stiffened slightly as Rygdea gave him a gruff hug, but allowed himself to helped up, his whole body wracked with shivers. He buried his face in the man's shoulder, willing the horror to disappear. But he kept his eyes open, refusing to allow himself to sink back into his mind. "Please take me home..."

Rygdea nodded, keeping a firm grip on Hope's arm as he looked at the stage. The lights had been restored and they continued to watch, no one daring to say a word. The silence was deafening. "Lt. Amodar, I'm hope you don't mind, but I have a friend here who needs to get home. I trust you to do some damage control."

Amodar looked shocked but slowly nodded his head as he recovered. "Of course Rygdea..." he said. Everyone at Hope's table was now standing, but none of them dared to approach, although Lebreau and Maqui were close. And Lightning had already taken a hesitant step.

"Rygdea..."

"I'm sorry everyone...we can talk about this later, but for now, I have to take him home." Rygdea said, looking down at Hope. "I'll see you in a few hours all right?" Lightning bit her lip and reluctantly nodded, clenching her hands in an attempt to keep calm. Rygdea gave her a silent thanks and patted Hope's shoulder, waiting for him to nod his head. As Hope gave him a shaky confirmation, Rygdea called forth his own magic. A soft glow of blue light engulfed them and the next second they were gone, little pulses of magic floating in the room.

Soon Hazel's crying at the commotion filled the room.