Xepher and Joker (originally Miku Hatsune) by Tatsh helped me concentrate in accomplishing this vignette. :p Yuna's half went from the Mt. Gagazet and Gullwing support to Tidus being there for her at Sin attack. The change never made me happier. XD
XXV.
Lifeline
{Live in shadow, follow the light, sin sleeps in our souls}
Opposite forces collide, an explosion, a flying Praetor, a fiery crimson flower unfolding within the phantasmal darkness and a possessed man under the mercy of inertia. He skids, his feet skipping step by step until he teeters over the edge. Panic creases his face, reaching out to his Al Bhed counterpart, a desperate plight piercing through the obscure insanity in his dark brown eyes.
Gippal's mind keeps telling him, 'this is not Baralai– this is not Baralai– he is only trying to fool you– who cares if he dies' –and that's when he snaps.
"Baralai!" In no time at all, Gippal abandons the bazooka responsible for harming his friend and lunges with all his might to close the distance. Digging his heels deep in dry soil, frantic fingers snatch at outstretched ones, grip strong and bone-cracking, straining his muscles to heave–
'Man, is it just me, or did B'man gain a few pounds?'
–vowing never to let go.
Pandemonium ensues, an ambush by sea, tumbling passengers, a liquid turquoise blanket rippling below the temperamental atmosphere and a fledgling Summoner under the influence of gravity. She trips, flying off her feet before a helping hand breaks her fall. Fright flees on sight, smiling serious at her savior, a chaste trust stressing the sharp purity in her bright blue-green eyes.
Tidus's heart keeps beating nonstop, 'don't let go, Yuna– don't let go– you don't have to worry– I'll save you' –and that's when the ship lurches.
Without warning, Yuna flings to the other side and Tidus squeezes one hand on the rope support tighter, pulling with his entire strength to stay onboard. Planting his soles fast on wet wood, a slippery hand clutches at a moist one, hold firm and skin-numbing, laboring his arm to lift–
'Damn, I can't get a break, why won't this nightmare end?'
–wishing forever to wake up.