Listening Hero by Nickelback. Sorry that this one is shorter. The semester is coming to an end and assignments are piling up again. Thank you everyone for reading and reviewing and for your patience. It means a lot. Enjoy.
Disclaimer: Namco owns Tales of Symphonia.
Chapter 37:
Stretching, Lloyd yawned as he pushed out of the bed, scratching his side as he listened to the persistent knocking on the door. Colette shifted in her sleep, already on the verge of awakening, but struggling to remain in the peaceful serenity of her dreams.
Lloyd sighed heavily, pushing up off the bed, locating his pants as he muttered, "I'm coming." The sun had risen just enough to peer through the windows, glittering rays lighting up the lake. He smiled thoughtfully as he glanced at it, making his way to the door.
Rubbing his still unshaven face, he opened the door with an irritated look, before blinking in surprise.
"Raine—"
She barely gave him a glance as she shoved past him, her livid silence more than enough to know not to question her. He looked at her blearily before turning back to the door to see an amused Genis watching him. Presea was at his side, her head tilted as she studied him. "You look older with that beard."
Lloyd regarded them both, reaching up to rub his scruff before frowning. "How did you know we were—?"
"Oh, yeah. If you can't tell, Raine is pissed off at you. Actually we all are." Genis frowned after a moment, and then strode in through the door, much like his sister had. "We've been searching for you and Colette for weeks."
Lloyd sighed frustrated, waiting for Presea to enter before shutting the door. "You weren't followed were you?"
"We were careful, Lloyd," she reassured him. Then her eyes spotted the crib. "Did you make this?"
Lloyd nodded absently, frowning as he watched Genis poke around before flopping onto the small couch. One of his long legs hung over the arm, his thin framing stretching across the sofa. "So are you going to tells us why you ditched us again?"
The warning was in his voice, but the hostility wasn't what it had once been. His tone informed Lloyd that an explanation was required.
"The less who know where Colette is, the more protected she is."
"You're an idiot."
Lloyd scowled at his friend before walking over to the bedroom where Raine obviously vanished too. He pushed open the door, slipping in. Colette was gently arguing with Raine as their old teacher fussed over her.
"Just lie down and let me give you a check-up." Raine scolded her and Colette finally relented with a sigh, leaning back on the propped up pillows. She gave Lloyd a pleading look and he chuckled.
"Raine, perhaps you can give her a moment?"
The withering look Raine cast his way made him raise his eyebrows. "No notice or information. She stays here while you are off hell knows where and leaving her unattended. Did you even think she should have someone looking at her regularly? What if the baby came early?"
Lloyd frowned, but couldn't ignore the guilty, nervous feeling. "You knew we were leaving."
"I thought you'd at least contact me after you settled!" she snapped, clearly irritated.
Colette shifted uncomfortably, but smiled reassuringly at the older woman. "Raine, I'm fine. Really. Sophia and Pietro have been stopping in to check on me. They bring groceries and help me around the house. Please don't yell at Lloyd."
Sighing heavily, Raine rubbed her face. "Alright, but I'm still giving you a check-up. Lloyd, you can just step out and talk to Genis. I swear if you both start up another fight, I'll start treating you like school children again."
He was looking down at her, her threat nearly made him smile, but he withheld it, lifting his hands in a mocking surrender and backed out of the room. Raine was stressed and worried, he wasn't going to add to that.
With a sigh, he turned only to find Genis grinning at him. It was a little lopsided and condescending. "Got kicked out?"
"Offering them privacy," he retorted, walking to the kitchen. "Have you eaten?"
"No and don't even tried to cook. Colette told me about the pancakes you made." Genis snorted, pushing up. "Just tell me where the stuff is."
The younger boy ignored Lloyd's irritated look, but relented and showed his friend where the food and appliances were. "I just get distracted when I cook. It has nothing to do with my ability."
"Sure. That's like Raine's excuse, 'cept she claims it's innovation."
"She still cooks poorly."
"Yeah."
Lloyd chuckled weakly, rubbing his chin. Genis glanced up at him with an annoyed look. Lloyd frowned. "What?"
"Shave."
Lloyd blinked at the blunt statement. "Why?"
"Because you look like an idiot," he said, focusing on the mixing the eggs and pouring them into the pan.
"Colette doesn't think so."
"Of course not."
"What was that?" Lloyd smirked.
"Shut up."
Lloyd smiled weakly, but eased off. He would shave, just not at the moment. It was a nice change, feeling the light scratch. And it made Colette laugh the night before, when the cuddled on the bed, rubbing his cheek against hers...
"I don't believe half-elves don't grow facial hair until they are older." Presea spoke up suddenly. "I think that's why Genis is jealous, Lloyd. You actually look rather handsome."
Both males looked up, glancing at each other then towards Presea. Lloyd cleared his throat, not failing to notice the heated look on Genis' face as he beat another batch of eggs violently in the bowl.
"Well, I'm planning to shave later today," he stated awkwardly. There was no reply, but he noticed the curious look Presea was giving Genis, almost thoughtful. Perhaps she was imagining him with facial hair as well.
The awkward silence was interrupted as Raine and Colette emerged from the bedroom. "Well she seems alright, health-wise. But I will be staying here, until the baby arrives."
Lloyd frowned. "That could be another month—"
"And what if it is early, Lloyd? Are you going to be here to help her deliver it?"
The snorting laughter from Genis made Lloyd grunt irritably, feeling his face grow hot. He looked at Colette, but she merely smiled reassuringly.
"I would be more comfortable having her around, if that's alright, Lloyd."
It wasn't alright. It was dangerous. People knew Raine, and Raine had a tendency to be 'loud' in the sense of opinions. She nearly always made an impression wherever she went. Lloyd doubted Luin would be no different.
But it was for the baby. He hated to admit his old teacher was right, but if the baby delivered early, Colette would be alone. He didn't like that idea any better. His eyes darted over Presea and Genis who looked at him expectantly.
"I suppose they will be staying as well?" He didn't mean for the bitterness that came out; he was just stressed and concerned.
"What's the supposed to mean?" Genis huffed. "Guess you forgot again that I'm your friend and Colette's. Don't I deserve to hang out with her?"
"I didn't mean it like—"
"Of course you didn't." Genis frowned. "Look, I know you are all paranoid about Cruxis finding us and everything, but they haven't bothered us since that attack at Iselia. They don't know we are here Lloyd and even if they did, I wouldn't let them touch Colette anymore than you would."
Lloyd had insulted Genis; he could hear the accusation in his voice. He sighed, trying to suppress the guilt and frustration he felt rising up. He really couldn't deal with this anymore...
"Fine. Just try to keep a low profile."
"Way to state the obvious Dumb-ass." Genis muttered.
"Genis." Presea's voice was strangely scolding and everyone nearly smiled to see the young half-elf's face turn crimson.
"Sorry."
"Well, now that that's been settled," Raine glanced around, an appraising look in her eyes. "This is quite the little home you have Colette."
"Thank you," she smiled. "Kratos and Lloyd helped choose it and Sophia has been helping me decorate slowly."
"Oh yes, how have they been? I can't believe those two got married as well. I suppose it was obvious with the way Sophia had taken care of Pietro in Hima." Raine smiled weakly. "Such a long time ago that was..."
Everyone went quiet, their thoughts turning back to that day, a day when things had been normal—at least relatively. Lloyd could barely remember those days, nothing more than a sequence of events with vague people and places. It was, indeed, a long time...
"Food's done." Genis announced, gathering the bowls and dishes as he passed the around. Everyone took their food wordlessly, seating themselves at the table.
"So when are you leaving again, Lloyd?" Presea's calm voice easily slipped past the silent barrier of memories. He lifted his eyes to regard her.
"Tomorrow. I have to report on a ranch," he casually answered, but as he expected, all eyes turned to him.
"Is that code for blowing it up?" Genis grinned. "When do we leave?"
"Not this time, Genis." Lloyd gave him a wiry smile, before turning serious. "Yggdrasill has become irate at my behaviour. It's my last chance to redeem myself in his eyes. I simply have to make a report and then leave." He kept his voice level.
Genis scowled. "Sucking up to him, Lloyd, isn't going to help you. Why don't you ditch that bastard? If he comes after you, we'll deal with him—"
"You know my answer, Genis."
The young half elf frowned, and then sighed, pushing his food around with his fork before spearing it, shoving it into his mouth.
"Which Ranch is it?" Raine looked at him calmly, though Lloyd could see the distaste in her eyes as well.
"Rodyle's, on a remote island near Palmacosta," he answered. From the corner of his eye, he notice Presea flinch, her blue eyes fastened on him. He glanced her direction, before shrugging, looking at his food. "As I said, it is simply a report on his research."
It was awkward again and Lloyd felt he'd rather be elsewhere at the moment. The exasperated looks from the Sages irritated him and he picked up his empty plate walking to the sink, scratching his scruff. He really needed to shave...
"By the way, Lloyd, I see you've acquired some facial hair." Raine interjected suddenly, her smile awkward and hesitant in an attempt to lighten the mood. "It makes you appear much more mature, but then I suppose you are grown up now."
Genis frowned, sitting back. "It's just hair. Why is everyone making a big deal out of it?" he asked unconsciously rubbed at his own chin.
"It's attractive, to some women. It also makes a man look older and more experienced. Though, it is all on specific tastes I assure you."
Lloyd smirked, noting the quick way she added the last comment. "I take it then, you prefer smooth-faced men, Raine?"
He met her eye and she must have understood his implication for she scoffed and brushed off his comment. He chuckled as he rinsed off his plate.
"Do half-elves grow facial hair, Raine?" Presea spoke up again, her eyes on Genis curiously.
"They do, though not until they are mature, since the life expectancy is longer than humans. Genis, for example, isn't likely to grow a beard until he's well into his, oh, forties perhaps. Maybe even longer.
Everyone noted the crimson flush spreading to the teens slightly pointed ears. "Are you saying I'm not mature? Because I am! I don't need no damn beard to prove that! I was mature long before Lloyd ever was."
He shoved his chair back as everyone smiled, storming over to Lloyd, muttering to himself as he dumped his plate in the sink.
"They are just teasing you, Genis," Lloyd chuckled.
"Just shave your damn beard already." Genis growled, storming away again.
"I didn't think he'd help us," Sheena murmured, holding the wing pack in her hands.
They were still at the base, awaiting word from Yuan about Lloyd. Zelos still wasn't particularly happy about including Lloyd. He knew the pressures of getting involved. Lloyd had more than enough to worry about with his kid on the way. But Yuan had stubbornly insisted and posed a good point. Neither Zelos nor Sheena knew the ancient language that the summon spirit spoke in.
"Well it's benefiting him too, Babe." Zelos leaned back in his chair. "You think you can do it?"
"I have to."
"No you don't. You just think you do."
She glanced at him, frowning, but he could see the nervousness behind those annoyed eyes. She was scared and Zelos didn't like how she was throwing herself into this situation simply because she felt like she owed it to Lloyd.
"You don't have to come if you don't want to," she said icily, looking away.
"I don't want to, but I'm going."
She gave him a grateful glance before moving over to him, sitting on his lap, looking at the wing pack again. "I'm just worried, is all. I don't want you getting hurt."
"Is that why you don't want Lloyd along?" He settled his hand on her hip, rubbing it comfortingly.
"Yeah. I mean, I know he can probably take care of himself. I just worry. So many people died last time. What if I mess up again? What if you and Lloyd get hurt? What if—"
"Sheena." His eyes locked with hers, slipping his arm around her waist, pulling her into a half hug. "You can do this."
She took a deep breath, before pushing his arm away, standing. "I know."
Zelos frowned pushing to his feet, wrapping his arms around her. "Babe, don't be like that—" A sharp nip at his ankle made him step back and curse. "You ugly little rat—"
"Zelos!" Sheena scolded, bending to scoop Corrine into her arms. "You two have to stop fighting."
Corrine crawled from her arms, up to Sheena's shoulder, peering at Zelos with black little eyes. "Sheena, you don't need him. I will protect you."
Sheena smiled softly, stroking the little creatures head. "I know you will, Corrine. You protect me from Zelos all the time."
Zelos rolled his eyes, scoffing. "I know when I'm unwanted." But he smiled, re-taking his seat as he watched Sheena sit on the bed, setting Corrine on her lap. As annoying as the little beast was, Zelos respected the little creature. It had been there when he hadn't. As much as Zelos hated to admit it, Corrine was a better companion than he could be.
He watched Sheena petting the furry creature, the little bell tinkling with every movement. She loved Corrine. Ever since she had broken him out of the research laboratory, the little summon spirit had never left her side. Fighting and protecting her in every situation. It had attacked Zelos on numerous occasions, but he couldn't blame it. Corrine saw the truth behind Zelos, or at least sensed the corruption that trailed behind him like a shadow. Sheena needed a friend like that to protect her.
She looked up, catching Zelos' eye holding the gaze for a moment. She smiled before the high-pitched voice of Corrine stole her attention. They were making plans, dreams for the future, none of which Zelos was sure he was included in. It was Corrine's world, with just Sheena and though Zelos knew Sheena would bring him along, he would never be involved in Corrine's world.
"I want to come with you."
Lloyd looked up from his pulling on his boot to find Presea standing ready and packed. Dawn was still long ways off and the house was silent save for the snoring sounds coming from Genis.
"No."
"You are going to kill Rodyle, aren't you? Then let me come."
She was keeping her voice low, but her resolve wasn't any weaker by it. He sighed grabbing his bag, setting the note by the door for Colette, or Raine, who would most likely read it first. "Let's talk outside."
He didn't want to risk waking the Sages. Genis was already making snide remarks about sucking up to Yggdrasill and Lloyd would prefer to leave without the congenial farewells behind false smiles. Even Colette was cross with him, arguing with him before bed, begging him to let Kratos do it.
The air was moist, still damp from the dew and he stepped down to the cobbled street, pausing to wait for Presea. Out of everyone, including his father, Presea had been the only one to question his motives. The least he could do was speak with her.
"Rodyle did this to me." She appeared at his side silently, barely past his shoulder. At her side, her massive axe rested on the ground.
"I know." Lloyd closed his eyes, recalling his talk with Regal. "There is no need to put yourself in danger, Presea. Rodyle will receive his punishment."
"He said it would help me take care of my sister." Her voice was even and flat, nearly reflecting that monotonous tone she had years before. "But I forgot her, abandoned her."
Lloyd frowned glancing ahead. "You want revenge then."
"Colette told me about Kate. How she is a victim too. She was one of the ones that participated on my experiment. I remember her. But I don't think she deserves what was done to me."
"No one does." Lloyd corrected her, but sighed, rubbing his face. "I'm only going to do a report—"
"No you're not."
He eyed her carefully, her pale eyes rising to meet his own. "She told me and Raine, while you were out with Genis yesterday, how you killed the Pope. She tried to be subtle about it, but I can see it. You want to kill him. Just like you killed the Pope."
Lloyd frowned, glancing at the house. "I lost control. I can't afford to do so again, Presea."
"Unless you are planning to leave Cruxis. Then it'll no longer matter, correct?"
He twitched, studying the young girl with a frown. "I suppose not. But we both know I can't do that."
"Won't, not can't, Lloyd." There was no accusation, just facts. Even so, he sighed, rubbing his face.
"Regardless, we both know it's a foolish move."
"But you are still willing to do it. Aren't you?" She hadn't looked away yet.
"It has always been a consideration." He broke the connection, glancing over the black lake. "If I bring you along, we won't even make it to the control room. There is no way for me to get you inside the base with no detection."
"Then take me as a prisoner."
"What?" Lloyd turned back to her, frowning.
"I was Rodyle's experiment at one time. Would he not want me back?"
Lloyd frowned, rubbing his face, inwardly cursing that he had yet to shave. He sighed closing his eyes. "You won't have a weapon."
"Raine gave Genis and me a wing pack she received from Yuan. It will conceal my axe for me." She pulled the small pouch out, showing Lloyd.
"Of course." He released another sigh, and then nodded. "Fine, let's go."
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