Chapter 15

Plan C

Monday, May 9th 2217NE

11:51pm

The city was in an absolute state of chaos. As the SeeDs and the Forest Owls fled, mayhem broke out as more and more Galbadian troops poured into Wolfsburg from other bases in Timber. They watched from their windows as Galbadian tanks and mechanized walkers patrolled the highways while troops stood on every corner and in every alleyway. They watched troops rounding up citizens, raiding homes and businesses and searching cars. They saw dozens upon dozens of citizens pushed to the ground and beaten. Their attempt to capture Deling had failed. And the fall out they were seeing now was a consequence that neither the Owls nor the SeeD team had thought to consider.

While the roar of the city's fall out raged outside on the streets, inside the van was a quiet and somber environment. The first thing they'd done is treat each other wounds and injuries. Luckily, Rinoa had only sustained minor lacerations and contusions and a single deeper wound from shrapnel. The SeeDs had taken most bullet strikes center mass to the body armor. Several wounds had been sustained to the limbs but between the GF enhancements and magic they'd all recover quickly enough and could still fight.

Squall looked around the van. Upfront, Zone and Watts navigated the streets, trying desperately to get them back to the warehouse with out running into military road blocks and check points. In the back, Quistis, Zell and Selphie sat together, none of them bothering to speak a single word. They looked exhausted; Squall knew they'd have to find some place safe to crash for tonight.

Rinoa looked both devastated and shocked. She did the best she could to look strong but every now and then you could hear a quiet sob coming from her direction. Squall didn't know how to feel. He was angry at himself for failing to protect his client but he was also angry with Rinoa for being so damn stubborn. He told the Owls not to rush this plan as he had told them not to rush the train strike and they hadn't listened and now most of them were dead. But Squall also felt bad for Rinoa. He knew that their hearts had been in the right place, they only wanted the best for Timber. To see her so hurt and upset and defeated gave Squall that sting in the center of his chest again. He didn't know what to make of it. Never before had he remembered feeling so terrible over another person's grief. It couldn't be that he had feelings for her. Squall just wouldn't accept that fact. He would just keep telling himself that he felt nothing for her and that she was just a job.

But right now was not the time to be thinking of feelings for girls. The group was still in danger and Squall knew that he had to get them out of the city and maybe even the country. The first move was to find shelter and a place to rest for the night. They needed to get back to the warehouse and gather what they could then leave as quickly as possible. Squall had a feeling the Badians would be searching every train yard and warehouse district before the night was over.

He tapped Watts on the shoulder. "Watts, how much further to the warehouse?"

"Another five minutes sir."

Squall nodded and sat back down.

Quistis looked up at Squall and then to the other SeeDs. She figured Squall knew what he was doing and let him handle the situation. As the senior ranking officer, Quistis could have taken over command the second she met up with them but continued to let Squall lead. At this point pulling rank would prove to be detrimental to them working together since everyone was used to Squall making the calls. Plus she didn't know the other three people in the van but guessed that they were Squall's clients. One thing she did notice was Squall and the raven haired girl. She kept catching Squall looking up at the girl with a concerned look on his face. Not the look of a mercenary checking on the status of their client but the look of a man checking on the welfare of a woman he had feelings for. But that wasn't the Squall she knew. Quistis shook off the thought. There would be a later time to get the story so far.

The van pulled into the warehouse and came to a stop. Everyone jumped out of the van and stretched for a moment then made their way upstairs to the room they had planed the strike in. Rinoa, Zone and Watts sat on one side, the SeeDs on the other.

Zone was the first to speak. "What do we do now?"

"The city is being torn apart while they look for us. I can't believe this is happening. People are being hurt because of us. If we hadn't tried to…" Watts trailed off as his head slumped down. He was trying not to cry, not to let anyone see his tears. Zone rubbed his shoulder.

Squall and the other SeeDs were silent. Squall was still pretty pissed at the whole situation and decided it best to stay quiet for the moment.

Zone looked over to Rinoa. "What do we do now Rin?"

Rinoa looked away from the group. The tears were slowly starting to run down her cheeks again and she didn't want to show it. She turned to Squall and looked to him for help. She was frightened, exhausted, out of ideas and on the verge of panic.

Squall put his hands up. "Yes?"

"What do you think we should do?" Rinoa asked.

"So now you want my opinion. You didn't want to hear it during the strike on the train or while trying to grab Deling. You've gotten your asses kicked twice today and you all could have avoided it if you had listened to us. Your group has been destroyed and the entire city is on high alert. And now it's only a matter of time until the military finds this warehouse and takes us out. Four SeeDs are no match against the entire Badian division they'll send after us probably. So what exactly do you want me to tell you?"

Rinoa's face went blank but Squall could see the anger in her eyes. She stood and set both her hands on the table then looked Squall square in the eyes. "You think our cause and our group is bullshit don't you?"

Squall stood to meet her eyes. "Just how serious are you about all of this? I mean you hire three SeeDs to help you overthrow the Galbadians and then rush in to every situation head first like a bunch of amateurs. You're not soldiers; you're just a bunch of kids who have no idea what the fuck you're doing. Your friends are dead because you planned the whole thing on a Hyne damned chalk board! And you almost got my team killed as a result! So excuse me if I'm a little insulted that you would now ask me what to do!"

Rinoa's eyes narrowed in rage. "You know what Squall, we are amateurs. We don't know as much as you guys about weapons, fighting or tactics. That's why we hired you people. But what did you do? You wrote us off as losers the second you showed up. What kind of professional does that make you? And at least we believe in something. You people are nothing more than money grubbing pieces of shit that kill and murder for the highest bidder! You don't believe in anything!"

"Ok that is it you stubborn little bit-"

"Squall!" Quistis thundered.

Squall turned to see Quistis giving him one serious death stare. She then turned her attention to Rinoa, who had tears still running down her cheeks and rage in her eyes.

"Ma'am, I am a lieutenant with Balamb Garden and SeeD Special Forces member like Squall. I want to assure you that we do not simply kill for money. We have strict rules we must follow. And I want to apologize for the sergeant's behavior. He is one of our best so he should damn well know better. If you'd like, I could try to have a new team sent here to serve you. It might take awhile but it could be done."

Rinoa snorted then shook her head. "No, I don't want a new team. I'm not sure that I even want SeeD's help anymore. Plus, there's no group left for you to help. I need a minute to think."

Quistis turned to Squall. "Outside sergeant."

Squall followed Quistis out into the hallway. He knew he had just crossed the line in there and had let his temper had gotten the best of him.

"What the hell was that in there? Are you out of your fucking mind? That is a client in there that you just insulted. A client who, by the way, is our only chance of getting out of here alive. If I where her, whoever she is, I would leave us here to be executed by the Galbadians."

Squall threw his arms up. "She's impossible to work with! They all are! The Forest Owls don't know shit about strategy or planning."

"Exactly! Their not SeeDs. That's why they hired us. Just about every client we have is not on our level. You have to learn to be patient with people. And don't let me catch you saying something like that to another client again. I should report you to Gen. Crace for this but since we have to survive this first, I'll put that thought on hold. But know this, he'd pull your ass right out of field work and stick you in a fucking office for a year. And thats only after he demoted back down to private. For now, you will go back in there and apologize to that girl and prey that she doesn't leave us here. By the way, is that the girl that you danced with at the SeeD Ball?"

Squall didn't verbally answer. He only dropped his shoulders and let out a long frustrated sigh.

Quistis threw her arms up and spun around before burying her face in her hands. "Oh this just keeps getting better and better. Leonhart, get your ass back in there and apologize to your date from the dance."

Just as Quistis finished scolding Squall, the door to opened and out marched Rinoa with Angelo on a leash, Zone and Watts behind him. They looked pissed and didn't bother saying anything to either SeeD as they stormed by them on their way to the stair case. The two SeeDs exchanged looks then turned to the room again as Zell and Selphie came running out.

"Their leaving!" Zell announced. "They said we're on our own."

Quistis gave Squall another look of frustration then took off after the remaining Owls, Zell and Selphie behind her. Squall let out a long sigh of frustration and slowly made his way towards the stairs.

Quistis caught up with the group and got in front of them. "Where are you going?"

Zone stepped ahead of Rinoa. "We're leaving. You guys are fired. We're better off with out you."

"He's right." Rinoa added. "Garden has done nothing to help us. We were promised professionals and got people who did nothing but patronize us. I know we aren't experts and I know that the strikes on the train and in the studio weren't well planned but we had only a small window of time we believed Deling would be here." She turned and narrowed her vision on Squall, who was slowly coming down the metal stair case. "Maybe if Garden hadn't taken so long to send us SeeDs, we would've had more time to plan something out."

"What are we supposed to do?" Zell asked.

"Not our fucking problem!" Zone yelled.

Rinoa pointed back to Squall. "Well you're professionals, I'm sure the great and mighty sergeant asshole will think of something. And you won't have us losers around to slow you down."

Quistis put her hands up in a pleading manner. She knew they had a right to be mad but if they split up at this point, both parties would be dead with in hours. "Look, I don't know who you are but I understand how you feel. You just lost your friends and Squall was way out of line. But if we split up, we are all going to die. We won't know where we're going and you will have no one to protect you. We need to stay together."

Zone turned to Rinoa. "We don't need them Rin."

Watts had been quiet up until now but suddenly walked over to Rinoa and gently squeezed her arm.

"She's right Rinny. They don't deserve our help after the way they've acted, but we need them. This is where we can show them our professionalism that they lack. Show them the respect that they haven't shown us. Plus, we are to blame as well. We didn't listen to Squall and the second attack was thrown together on the fly to get back at Deling. It was emotional and vengeance based and thats why it failed. And it cost Dylan his life. Besides, they have your description Rin. Me and Zone can't protect you like they can. You've seen what Squall can do. The guy's a weapon. A killing machine."

Rinoa looked to Watts and bit her bottom lip. This wasn't like her. She wasn't this hateful or vengeful and believed that Watts was right. If they split up now, they would all die. Then Dylan's last words to Squall rang through her mind. She dropped to one knee and rubbed the fur on Angelo's head. "What do you think boy?"

Angelo looked up at Rinoa then looked around the room at everyone else. His ear's sprang up then he turned to Rinoa and licked her face several times. She laughed at his actions and slowly nodded. She understood what he thought.

"Ok, we'll stick together for now. I know of a place we can go. It's safe and we can stay there for the night."

Quistis nodded. "Thank you." She extended her hand for Rinoa to shake. "I don't believe we've been properly introduced."

"I'm Rinoa Heartily."

"Nice to meet you Rinoa. I'm Lieutenant Quistis Trepe" She looked over to Squall then back to Rinoa. "I want to assure you that we will not underestimate or disrespect you again."

"I appreciate it. Now, let's get going. The place I have in mind is a safe house. It's on the outskirts of the town.

Quistis nodded then signaled for Zell and Selphie to get everyone's things. Both the Seeds and the Owls quickly used the bathrooms to clean themselves up the best they could and change out of the uniforms and outfits they'd worn for the strike on the TV station. Squall threw on a pair of blue jeans, a black shirt and his black jacket. He suggested everyone else cover up as much as possible to hide the bandages and wounds from their last fight. Everyone else followed suit except for Quistis, who unfortunately was stuck in the dress she'd worn the whole day. It was torn and battered and bloody so she'd sit in the back out of sight until they got her a change of clothes. The clothes they'd worn to the fight were al tossed into a metal drum and burned.

After everyone had cleaned up and changed, the Owls jumped back into the van while Zell and Selphie packed up the remaining weapons, ammo and gear. Meanwhile, Quistis pulled Squall aside one last time.

"I am going to leave you in charge. This is still your mission and I know you have the skills to get the job done right. Do not make me regret that decision. I know they are amateurs but you're a rookie yourself so try to have a little more patience. That is an order."

Squall nodded quietly as Zell came down the stairs with Squall's bag. He tossed it to Squall who shouldered it then quickly got into the van, careful to avoid eye contact with anyone. He was mad at himself and everyone else and didn't want to speak or think.

Zone put the van into gear and took off. He got the van out of the area as fast as he could onto the highway. It would take approximately twenty minutes to reach the safe house.


The van was soundless as it moved, no one inside felt like speaking. Zone, Watts and Selphie sat upfront while everyone else sat on the floor up against the sides on the van. Squall stared blankly down, making sure he didn't move his eyes from the floor. He couldn't believe that his first mission had gone so poorly. Most of the clients had been killed and the ones that remained hated him. That second fact shouldn't have bothered Squall but it did slightly. Normally, he could care less who liked or disliked him but this situation was different and he hated that.

FUCK! I can't believe I'm in this position right now!? What the hell was Cid thinking sending us out here? He had to have known we wouldn't make a difference. So much for a great start to my career.

Zell looked over to Rinoa. "What exactly is this safe house we're going to?"

"It's a town house in one of the older residential sections of the city. There's never much Galbadian presence there so I figure it's our best bet. The people that live there are resistance members. I'm good friends with them."

"So they'll let us stay for the night?" Quistis asked.

Rinoa nodded. "Yea, I think so. In the morning we can plan our next move."

Quistis nodded then leaned back and closed her eyes. Rinoa looked over to Squall, who was sitting against the wall with his arms crossed looking down at the floor. It looked like he hadn't even been paying attention or didn't really care. He had a serious look of defeat written across his face. But this didn't bring any joy to Rinoa like she thought it would. To her, Squall had acted like a total jerk off so far, and this Quistis woman pulling rank on him and giving him an ear full had been exactly what he had deserved. But at the same time, Rinoa felt bad for him and felt bad about the whole situation. After all, Squall had tried to warn them about both strikes and had been right both times. And he had saved their lives and hers personally, at least two or three times already. Which lead Rinoa to questions that had bothered her since the weapons pick-up.

Why had Squall rushed out of cover to take the Badians out? There was no real reason to other then Squall believing that I was in danger. I know I saw them laughing so they must have been talking about killing us. But he still could have played it cool and waited to see if they left on their own. But then he treats us like idiots. I don't get him. And why does he just seem so familiar to me? And where have I seen that gun blade before?

She'd have to wait until later to ask him. Right now wasn't a good time and Rinoa could clearly tell that Squall was not in a talking mood.

It was 12:32am when the van pulled onto Meadow Street. The street was clear of both police and military presence so Zone pulled the van into the drive way of townhouse and shut the engine off. Zone, Watts and Selphie turned around to face the others.

"Ok, the people who live here are Mr. and Mrs. Arleigh," Rinoa Said. "They have a son and a daughter who are in high school. They're part owners over at the Aphora Pub, that's why we used it. Everyone stay here while I go up to the door and see if this is alright with them. I'll come back and…"

"Selphie…"

Rinoa stopped talking and everyone turned to the back of the van where Squall was sitting. He didn't bother to move or even look up as he spoke. "You will go with Ms. Heartily to the door. The client must be escorted, now more than ever. Plus, you look the least threatening."

Rinoa, along with everyone else, noticed how coldly and professionally Squall had just spoke. Zell looked to Rinoa and then to Quistis then shrugged and looked down. Rinoa let out a quiet sigh.

"Ok Selphie, let's go."

Selphie and Rinoa got out of the van and walked up to the front step. They could see through the window that the house was dark except from the light coming from the TV. Rinoa pushed the button for the door bell. A moment of silence went by before the distinct sounds of movement reverberated through the door. It opened and there stood both Rebecca and Norman Arleigh. They both looked to be in their forties; Rebecca was taller with short brown hair. Norman was also tall with graying black hair. Rebecca spoke first.

"Oh my God, Rinoa!" She stepped out onto the front porch and gripped Rinoa into a bear hug. "Are you ok? We've been watching the news for the past hour or so. We saw the raid on the communications building. Then we heard through the grape vine that the Forest Owls had been wiped out."

Rinoa squeezed her back. "Me, Watts and Zone are fine. Everyone else…"

Rebecca stepped back and looked into Rinoa's eyes. She knew the answer already. Rebecca and Norman exchanged looks of grief, and then Norman looked up.

"Who else is with you?" he asked, trying to change the subject.

Rinoa quickly wiped a tear away then turned to Selphie. "This is Selphie Tilmitt. She and a couple others helped me get out of the tower, which brings us to why we are here. I was wondering if we could stay here for the night. It isn't safe at our base and it would only be for one night. Tomorrow we'd plan something out and go."

Rebecca took her by the hand. "Of course you can stay tonight."

"We wouldn't be good resistance members if we left you out to fend for yourselves." Norman added with a wink.

Rinoa smiled. "Thank you so much. We really owe you."

"We really appreciate it sir!" Selphie exclaimed. She stepped up and bear hugged Norman, picking him right up off the ground. She put him down then ran back down to the van to tell the others.

"She's…stronger than she looks." Rebecca noted.

"She has a lot of energy," Rinoa added.

The sliding side door to the van opened suddenly to reveal a jumping, bubbly Selphie. "They're gonna let us stay!"

"Awesome!" Zell exclaimed.

Watts turned to Zell. "I knew they would. Even with the Badians looking for us, I knew the Arleigh's wouldn't turn us away. They love Rinoa to death."

Squall jumped out of the van. "Ok, everyone out, we need to get out of sight. I don't want a Galbadian patrol to spot us."

Everyone piled out of the van and quickly made their way inside. They dropped the gear off in the hallway then proceeded to the family room. Watts and Zone walked up to the Arleighs, shaking Norman's hand and giving Rebecca hugs. Angelo ran up to Norman and waited his turn. He and Norman always played catch whenever Rinoa brought him over. Then they turned to the four strangers whom Rinoa had brought with her. Rinoa pointed to the SeeDs.

"These four are SeeDs. We hired them to help us. Starting from your right is Selphie, Quistis, Zell and the team leader Squall."

There was an awkward silence between everyone for a moment that Quistis decided to break. She stepped forward. "We really appreciate you taking us in like this. We realize the risk you're taking."

Rebecca waved it off. "Nah, don't worry about it. Norman and I have been part of the resistance for years, even before the Owls got started. We always help them out with aid and supplies."

"You guys must be SeeD Special Forces. That would explain Selphie's increased strength. You have GF junctions."

The SeeD's turned back to Selphie who cracked an uneasy smile. "Sorry, I accidentally picked him up off the ground."

Before anyone could saying anything else the sounds of foot steps coming down the stairs echoed through the room as the Arleigh's teenage children, Donna and Paul, came down to the first floor.

"Dad, what's going on?" Paul asked.

"Rinoa ran into trouble with the Galbadians, so she and her friends are going to stay here for the night."

Paul's eyes lit up. "I knew it! That was you guys on the TV a little while ago. The broadcast and the battle were on every channel. That means that you four are SeeDs! Awesome! I've never met one before."

Norman gave his son a stern look. "Easy there killer, they just got here. Give them a little space."

Donna walked over to Rinoa and took her hand. She had always looked up to Rinoa as if she were an older sister. When they weren't actively doing resistance work, the Owls would often visit and Rinoa and Donna would sneak off to have girl talks about clothes, sports and cute boys.

"Are you ok Rin? Where is everyone else? Where's Dylan?"

The room went silent. Everyone looked over to Donna and then to Rinoa. But she didn't know what to say to the girl. "They…Dylan is…" She trailed off, not able to finish the sentence. She could feel the tears welling up. Up until now, she was able to hold them off fairly well, but now that they had reached so place to rest, the events of today came crashing back down. Rinoa pulled Donna in closer so she wouldn't see the tears start to stream down her cheeks.

Rebecca immediately walked over to Rinoa and put her arm around Rinoa's shoulder. "Why don't we get you something warm to drink Rin. Come on Donna, you can help me out and stay with Rinny. The rest of you can make yourselves at home. Give me a few minutes and then I'll fix up a meal of some sort for everybody."

One hour later the group was spread out over the house. After a makeshift meal consisting of sandwiches, pretzels, potato chips and dill pickles, the group took turns showering then sat down to relax for the night. Zell and Selphie sat on the couch in the family room next to Paul, answering his questions the best they could about Garden and being a SeeD. Quistis sat on the other side of the room, going over strategy with Watts and Zone. Squall had originally wanted to sit with them but Quistis told him to go relax and cool off some more. In the dinning room, Rinoa sat with Norman, Donna and Rebecca, telling them everything that had happened so far. She needed someone to vent to and a shoulder to cry on. That left Squall, who now stood by himself in the kitchen, finishing the last of his iced tea.

As he put the glass into the sink, Norman entered the kitchen. "I'm told that you've saved the group's lives several times, including Rinoa's life. From what I've heard, you put forth most of your effort so far to personally make sure she stayed alive and unharmed. I thank you for that."

"I wouldn't be so fast to thank me. I might have protected her but the rest of the group is dead except for the other two. And we have an entire Badian army after us. So I'm not sure you should be thanking me for anything."

"None the less, those three are still alive. They tell me you are an incredible fighter and a natural leader but you lack social skills."

Squall shrugged. He knew that Norman was really referring to what Rinoa thought of him. "Is that what she thinks now? Well, she's not exactly easy to work with either."

Norman let out a low chuckle. "You know Squall; the biggest part of being a leader isn't being the strongest or the most skilled. Its showing patience and trying to make the others in the group better. It sounds and blatantly appears that they all look up to you as a leader, even her."

"Oh yea, I'm sure I'll get employee of the year back at Garden."

Normal laughed and shook his head.

Squall was quiet for a second then pointed to the sliding doors behind him. "I'm gonna get some air." He slid the glass door to the left and slipped outside onto the wood deck. He walked over to the edge and leaned up against the railing, looking up at the crystal clear night sky. Away from all the light pollution of the city gave a perfect view of the millions of stars scattered across the sky. Squall took a deep breath and let it out slowly, trying to clear his mind.

Back inside Rebecca and Rinoa entered the kitchen to find Norman sitting at the kitchen table. Rinoa could just make out Squall through the glass and walked over to the door. "I'm going to see what Squall's up to."

"Ok sweety." Rebecca watched Rinoa go out back then heard Norman giggling to himself. "What's so funny Norm?"

"Isn't it obvious? She likes him. She's got a thing for him."

Rebecca joined her husband at the table. "Yea I sort of noticed that while we where talking in the other room. Rinoa normally doesn't take shit from someone she hardly knows. But she seems fixated on getting on his good side no matter how long it takes her."

Norman nodded slowly. "I think he likes her back but just doesn't want to admit it to anyone, most of all himself. He must be one of those types that don't like to open up to anybody."

Rebecca grinned. "Well if anyone can crack that boy's shell, it's Rinoa."

Back outside Rinoa slowly walked over to where Squall stood. Squall moved his head just slightly enough to make eye contact with her for just a split second.

"Can I help you with something Ms. Heartilly?"

"You don't have to be that formal with me."

"Apparently I do since I'm just an emotionless money grubbing piece of shit merc that does anything for money right?"

"Ok, you know what Squall, I came out here to try and make peace with you. You don't have to be such a dick about it. And in my defense, you guys had that comment coming."

"Whatever."

"Is that your answer to everything? Ya know, I'm sorry you think I'm a weak, immature little girl. But I'm stronger than you think! I have friends that care about me and a righteous cause I believe in. I'm not just some damn..."

Squall spun around. "Some what!? Some damn mercenary? Right? I love how everyone will make us out to be monsters but then turn around and hire SeeD when they need our services. You're just a fucking hypocrite like everyone else!"

"Oh, so SeeDs aren't for sale? You guys aren't just out for the big money grabs. For months we sent in requests to Garden with out hearing anything back. Garden didn't care about a group like us because we're not some rich government. For Hyne's sake, I had to go to my ex to get the request to Cid! Then finally you guys show up and things go to pieces. Admit it; you hate this mission, you hate us and you hate our cause. You don't really care about Timber."

Squall walked over to her and looked Rinoa right in the eyes. "It is not a mercenary's job to become emotionally involved in mission. We stay detached because it allows us to keep our minds focused, ok? And yea, we work for the money but we do follow strict rules of conduct. We don't go around killing just anyone for gil. Every job is researched ahead of time to make sure we're not committing any kind of war crimes or aiding any terrorist organizations. And by the way, you can really pick out a good boyfriend."

Rinoa put her hands on her hips. "Bringing up Seifer again? That is none of your businesses. He's my ex and at least he was nice enough to get our request to Cid."

"How many times do I have to tell you, Seifer doesn't give a shit about your cause. Wake up! He proved it back there by storming in to kill Deling himself for himself. For his own personal glory!" Squall stepped back and realized this was pointless. Why did he care about getting this girl to understand? And why did it bother him that Seifer had been with her? She meant nothing to him, she was just a client. "You know what, I don't really want to discuss this with you. For Hyne's sake, I normally don't talk this much in a week."

"Ok fine, but you still didn't answer the real question? Do you care about our cause? Do you care that Timber is occupied by Galbadia?"

"Look, I don't agree with this occupation anymore than you."

"That's not a real answer. You're just giving me some neutral response. The night we danced together, you looked at me in a way that was so deep. Nobody's ever looked at me like that. Then you rush out at the weapons pick up and kill a bunch of Badian soldiers who walked in my direction. Does the man I hired to fight for us really care about us…about me?"

Squall's mind was racing. He didn't know how to answer because he honestly didn't know anymore. Normally he would just tell a girl right to her face that he didn't like to get attached and didn't need another person in his life. He liked the safety and security of solitude. It was too hazardous to let someone in. Dozens of thoughts and feelings that Squall hadn't felt in years started to surface little by little. But Squall would not admit it that easily. He made his mind push everything back in; he wasn't coming out of his shell tonight.

"I…think we should get some sleep. You have to decide if the three of you are going to stay with us or go off on your own."

With out another word, Squall turned and marched back inside as fast as he could. He slid the door open and passed Rebecca on his way back into the family room. She watched him go by then saw Rinoa come in and slowly slide the door shut before locking it. She could see the frustration and the anger in Rinoa's eyes. It was obvious to her that things hadn't gone well out there.

"Be patient dear. Some people just need more time to open up and realize what they have."

Rinoa's eye widened. "What? I don't...oh no, you don't think that I like him do you? He is the farthest thing from my type."

Rebecca grinned and nodded sarcastically. "Right baby girl. Whatever you say." Then she moved to the family room to address everyone. "Ok everyone; this is how we'll work it. All the girls can sleep upstairs. You can split it up between Donna and Paul's rooms. Paul, you and the rest of the guys can crash here in the family room."

Quistis stood up. "Thank you ma'am. Squall, do you think that someone should keep watch just in case?"

"Zell and I will take the watch. I'll take first half then wake Zell up for the second."

Everyone agreed then split up. Rebecca and Norman headed upstairs to turn in for the night. The girls got their stuff together and followed Donna up. Rinoa was the last in line up the stairs. Right before she disappeared out of sight, she looked over to Squall, not expecting to get anything out of him. But she found him looking right back at her. And this time, he didn't look away. Rinoa didn't want to read into it too much and take it as a sign of some sort, so she just nodded slightly then continued upstairs.

Squall walked over to the front window in the family room and sat down. He had a lot to think about and plenty of time to do so.


The next morning everyone awoke a little after 11am. After a quick breakfast everybody moved into the family room to decide the next move. Rinoa spoke first.

"Zone and I talked it over this morning and came to our decision. We will help you get out of the country if you agree to one condition."

"What is it?" Squall asked bluntly.

Rinoa stood up. "It's too dangerous for you guys to stay in Wolfsburg. Actually, it's too dangerous for you guys to stay in Timber altogether." Rinoa paused a moment to let that thought sink in everyone's mind.

Squall's right eyebrow shot up. He wondered what they were getting at. "I agree. Now what's the deal?"

Rinoa turned to Zone and nodded. Zone got up and gently rubbed her shoulder. "We want Rinoa to go with you. They didn't get your faces on camera but they have all of your descriptions, including Rin's. So it's too dangerous for her to stay as well."

Quistis leaned forward. "So what exactly do we do with her after we all get out of the country? What is our ultimate objective with her and were do we stand with Garden's current contract with you?"

Zone continued. "Our contract with Garden is still on. Your primary objective was to protect the two ranking members of the Forest Owls. Dylan is gone but Rinoa still needs to be protected. And you are still obligated to work for us until Timber is strong enough to declare its independence or at least go to the GCN for aid. So here's the deal. Rinoa stays with your group and under your protection until Timber is free or calls for aid. Those are our terms. Or we can split up and go our separate ways and you can figure out how to get out of Timber alive on your own."

Squall found everyone in the room looking at him for the decision. He was in charge and knew they would go with whatever choice he made. Squall figured they probably wouldn't make it with out the Owl's help. But babysitting Rinoa for what could be months or even years didn't sound like a picnic either, especially since he and Rinoa had substantial tensions between them now.

Watts walked over to Squall and looked at him. Normally timid and unsure, he now looked both determined and worried at the same time. "What's it gonna be Leonhart? Are we a team still?"

"If we take her with us, what will you two do?"

"They aren't looking for us. Me and Zone will link up with another resistance group called Forest Fox. They'll be happy to have us."

"Rebecca and I know them. They're good people." Norman added.

"Ok then, you got a deal. Now, how did you plan on getting us out of here?"

Watts crossed his arms. "All the civilian trains and aircraft coming and going in Wolfsburg have been stopped because of the attacks. But, I called a few contacts this morning and found out the rail lines outside the city are still running. The closest one is in the town of Mannhiem. It's only fifteen minutes away from here and it runs to Galbadia. You can get off at a station called East Academy."

Quistis turned to Squall. "Squall, remember Article Eight of Garden Code. In the event that SeeDs cannot get back to their assigned Garden they are to report to the nearest Garden. We can't get back to Balamb..."

"Galbadia Garden is the closest so that is our destination anyway. It works perfectly."

Zell stood up. "Dude, isn't going into Galbadia a really bad idea for us right now even if it's the closest Garden? Besides, we have to get back to Balamb to warn them. It's my fault they know we're SeeDs. If anything happens to Garden it will be my fault." He sat back down and dropped his face into his hands.

"Zell, don't blame yourself." Selphie began. "I'm sure Garden will be fine. They don't know which Garden it is. And we do have to get out of here first."

Quistis walked over to Zell and knelt down to rub his shoulder. "Besides, Galbadia is the last place they'd think to look for us."

"Where do we go from East Academy?" Squall asked.

"You'll have to walk from that point on. Galbadia is crawling with military patrols and road stops. But there's a large area of woods west of the station. There's a path that will lead you to Galbadia Garden. Get on it and stay on it until you clear the woods."

"We know it sounds sketchy but its the best we got." Zone added.

"Ok then, everybody get your things, we are going now." Squall ordered.

Ten minutes later everyone had gotten their things together and and loaded up the van. Zone and Watts sat up front while everyone once again crammed into the back of the small van, staying out of sight. Squall and Rinoa were the last two still outside. Rinoa walked Angelo up to Donna while Squall stood aside, letting her say her goodbyes.

"Ok Angelo, mama's gotta go on a trip but I'll be back. You be good and listen to Paul and Donna." She knelt down and hugged the dog then kissed her hand and put it on Angelo's nose. Angelo responded by barking twice and running a full circle around Rinoa before walking over to Donna. Rinoa stood and gave all the Arleigh's hugs.

"I'll watch over him Rin, I promise." Donna said.

Paul walked over to Angelo and rubbed his head. "I can take him for walks. We have a huge park down the street. He'll have the time of his life."

"Thanks you two, I really appreciate it."

Rebecca wiped a tear from her eye. "Bye baby girl. Take care of yourself and don't get hurt ok?"

Rinoa started to tear up again. "I'll be careful and I promise to come back." She walked over to Rebecca and hugged her again. Then she gave Norman another hug during which, he whispered something into her ear.

"Don't give up on him yet sweety. I can tell he has a good heart, he just doesn't know it yet."

Rinoa chuckled as they both looked over at Squall who was standing there with his typical stoic demeanor. Rinoa smiled and shook her nodded. "Ok."

She stepped back from the family and walked over to the van, waving one last time before she got in.

Squall turned to the family and quietly nodded in respect then got into the van. As the van took off down the street Norman put an arm around Rebecca and gave her a squeeze.

Rebecca let out a low sigh. "Oh Hyne, Norm, they're just kids, teenagers. And they have to deal with situations like this already."

"I know but the SeeDs are highly trained. They are far more mature then the average high school kid."

Rebecca turned and looked Norm in the eyes. "Do you think Rin will be ok?"

"He won't let anything happen to her."

The confidence showing in her husband's eyes and in his voice made her feel better. "I believe that too dear. Now, lets go inside and start to get lunch ready. Zone and Watts will be back in a little bit and you know those two, they can eat."


Twenty minutes later the van pulled into the parking lot of the Mannheim Train Station. Everyone quickly got out and huddled up.

Zone pointed to a ticket booth over to the right. "Watts called in ahead of time and ordered the tickets. Their under the name Squall."

Watt's looked over to Rinoa. "Well I guess this is it."

"Come here you two." Rinoa said.

Watts and Zone walked over to her and gave Rinoa a tight squeeze. They had been through so much together and Rinoa considered them her brothers.

"You guys have to promise me something. No matter what, you two have to survive. We are going to liberate Timber together, to honor the memory of all the Forest Owls."

Zone gave Rinoa another hug then kissed her on the forehead. "Be careful Rinoa, come back to us."

"I will." She could feel more tears about to surface but forced them back. From here on things were going to get serious and dangerous real fast and she needed to be focused. Rinoa picked up her bag and walked over to the SeeDs. She realized her life was now completely in the hands of the mercenary soldiers they had hired. There would be no support from resistance factions anymore. She only hoped that the SeeDs would live up to their promise to keep her safe.

As they started to make their way over to the ticket booth, Zone grabbed Squall's hand. "Don't fuck this up Squall. You keep her alive and well no matter what the cost."

The two stared at each other for another moment before Zone slowly let go of Squall's hand. With out saying anything else, Zone walked over to the van and hopped in then took off.

Squall realized that although they may have been just amateurs, the Owls had been a family, working together for a cause they all believed in. He understood Zone's warning; Zone considered Rinoa a sister and had just handed over her life to Squall for safe keeping. Squall had a sister too once, a long time ago. But he couldn't remember her so well anymore, as a matter of fact he couldn't remember most of his childhood anymore. However, he did remember one thing. That "sis" had left him, for some reason she left one day and never came back. It was an event that would ultimately shape Squall into the person he was today.

Not wanting to remember that single memory anymore, he forced it back inside, just like he'd done many times before. Right now the only thought on his mind was getting to Galbadia Garden.


NOTES

Well, another chapter. This one took me longer to finish then I had expected but I ended up changing it twice. I wanted a complete meltdown to take place between Rinoa and Squall as well as the SeeDs and the Owls. Rinoa and Squall still have plenty of tension between them but there is an upcoming event that will change all of that.