A/N: Wow, now this is a long chapter. I didn't intend on its length, it just kinda happened. Anyway, it took me forever, but now it's done. I shall go pass out now.

Reviewers - Special thanks to you all. You guys are super awesome. Yes, this story can be very dark at times, but it doesn't remain that way throughout the whole story. I'm very glad the detail and length are appreciated. Also, Cass is kind of a bratty character altogether, but he grows on ya. Of course, no one can replace Hope as our Director ;). As for if Hope can go back to Light... well, you'll see.

Thanks again and enjoy the new chapter. Review please :)

Revised: March 2015

It was a warm day in Palumpolum. A thirteen year old Hope stood outside of Crescent Elementary school awaiting his best friend. As he sat on a bench outside, he pulled out a book from his bag and read. It was a good forty minute wait between the time the junior high and the elementary school got out, but Hope was used to it. It had been that way for the whole year. Since he had graduated from Crescent and began his wonderful life in junior high, he would get out of school, walk to Crescent and wait for Cass. They would walk home together from there. Even though his parents had disapproved, saying he should spend more time with kids at his school, ones his own age, Cass was his best friend. He couldn't just move on and leave him behind. And it's not like he'd really made any new friends. He may have graduated into a new school, but the same class of kids he'd grown up with hadn't changed. None of them liked him anymore now than they had a year ago.

Hearing movement from the front of the school, Hope looked up. A chipper looking Cass stumbled out of the front doors of the building. He stood in front of his silver haired friend and grinned. "So, have you asked her out yet?"

A light rouge tinted Hope's cheeks as he stood. Putting his book in his backpack, he shoved his younger friend and began walking in the direction of their neighborhood. "Why are you out early?"

Cass rolled his eyes at Hope's avoidance of the question. "I have my ways. You of all people know that."

Hope smirked. You crafty devil you. What did you do this time?

"Anyway. C'mon, did you?" He gave his stubborn friend a pleading look.

Hope just sighed in return. "Cass, I invented that look. And you know full well that I didn't."

"Why not? I told you she likes you. I'm her little brother. Getting into her things and finding out every detail about her is my job. I know she likes you", whined Cass. He stopped, forcing Hope to stop and turn toward his irritating friend. "So if it's because you think my intel is-"

"I believe you." Hope turned away and continued in his previous direction.

Cass scampered after him while hefting his backpack higher on his shoulders. "Well, then why not? I know you like her." He raised an eyebrow, giving his friend a cocky knowing look as he jabbed his elbow into Hope's side.

"That's not that hard to figure out. Everyone likes Kori." His shoulders slumped a bit at his words. Cass opened his mouth only to have Hope clasp a hand over it. "Just forget it, Cass. Even if she's interested, she could never go out with someone like me. It would just ruin her reputation. Besides, why do you want us together so badly?"

"I-I know that... she likes you and... you like her so... plus you're not like the absolute imbeciles she dates. And you're my best friend... I know you... and I can trust you with Kori. I just-"

Hope began kicking a rock. "Well, it's not gonna happen, all right? Can we just drop it?" He gave Cass a look of exasperation, begging for him to stop pestering him about his sister. It's not like Hope hadn't thought about asking Kori out. He just knew that she'd reject him. Her pride and reputation coming before her feelings every time. Besides, Hope had never asked a girl out in his life. He was terrified of the thought. He most definitely wouldn't start with one of the most popular girls in school.

"Fine", Cass sighed. He then grumbled something inaudible as he pouted. They began walking down an alley on their usual route home. Cass started to say something when they were halfway through the long narrow passage, but he was cut off by a loud whistle.

"Hey, Estheim! You and your little girlfriend out for a stroll?"

A little ways in front of them were four boys that Hope recognized immediately. Cass only knew one of the four. Three of the boys were in Hope's class and had taken a liking to tormenting him in their spare time for the past two years. Dex, the pudgy ring leader of the group, just had it out for him. The other two were his lackeys that obeyed his every command. The fourth one, Dex's younger brother, Karter, had begun torturing Cass, with some prodding and training from his elder sibling, no doubt.

From the look in Dex's eyes, Hope knew what was coming. "Cass, run."

"What?" As the bullies slowly approached them, Cass gave Hope a worried glance before running down the side alley that they had thankfully been stopped at. He didn't want to leave Hope behind, but he had been told to go, and he wouldn't be of any help. Knowing he wouldn't be able to get too far if they chose to come after him, he slid under a dumpster, his small, skinny body being much help. He made it under just in time to see the four surround Hope.

"Go after the little punk", ordered Dex.

Hope took a step toward the gang's leader, trying to muster as much courage as he could to glare at him. "No, it's me you want, Dex." Hope was terrified and his left leg was unwillingly shaking, ignoring his orders to stop, but he had to do this. He had to protect his best friend. "You really wanna pick on a kid half your size and three years younger than you?" His voice trembled a bit as Dex drew closer. Hope's head came to Dex's chin, making him even more intimidated. "I mean, really... p-picking on a fourth grader? W-what kind of message does that send? That you can only beat up-" Hope was cut off by a punch to the cheek by Dex. The blow almost threw Hope to the ground, but he miraculously found his footing.

"So you wanna take the twerp's punishment too, huh? Is that what you're saying?" The plump kid poked Hope in the chest harshly.

Hope bit his lip as he fought against his instincts to book it and run. "Why can't you just leave us alo-" Another punch, but this time Hope fell and landed into the arms of Dex's flunkies who pushed him back up.

"I asked you a question."

"Yeah, he asked you a question", repeated Karter as he crossed his arms over his chest and glared at Hope.

All he could do was resign himself to a pummeling. If he didn't, they'd surely go after Cass. "Yes", mumbled Hope.

Dex's eyebrow rose as an evil smirk played across his lips. "I can't hear you?" But he had. He even took off his grimy token blue baseball cap and flipped it around, as he always did before kicking the snot out of an innocent kid.

Hope hung his head. "Yes." Just after the words fell from his lips, Dex kneed him in the stomach. As Hope hunched over, his face was met with the same knee and he fell backwards to the ground. His nose began bleeding and his head now screamed in agony. The pain in his gut was dulled by the new injury. He opened his previously scrunched up eyes and saw the sadistic grins and stares of the boys towering over him. He knew it was far from over.

Cass watched from under the dumpster, feeling as slimy and disgusting as the container over his body. Hope fell to the ground and was soon being kicked and punched by all of them, even Cass' arch nemesis. He was being hit so many times, Cass couldn't even keep track. Every grunt and groan made him wince. After a good kick to the head, Hope's face turned to Cass' direction and their eyes locked. His scared, sorrowful purple eyes met with Hope's pained, yet happy and proud green.

Hope was proud of himself and happy to take the hit for his friend. His head felt like a piñata fighting to stay closed, his bones now felt like shattered glass, and he was sure that his spleen or something else important had ruptured inside of him, but he was happy.

After the minutes ticked by, the incessant taunting and laughter lessening, the punks grew tired as they began panting. "Shows you, Estheim. I knew you were a wimp." Dex spat on Hope's face before wiping his brow. He gestured to his group and began to leave. "You may have saved that spineless nobody today, but you say anything and we'll pummel him tomorrow." They all laughed and ran towards the end of the alley, fleeing on their waiting bicycles.

Cass waited until he could no longer hear their cackling. He scrambled out from his hiding spot and ran to Hope. His silver-haired friend was sprawled out on the dusty concrete, his eyes closed, one swollen shut, and his breathing labored. Cass put a shaking hand gently on his savior's arm, wondering if he was conscious. Hope groaned as he stirred. "Hope! Hope are you all right?" Tears began to form in his eyes as he stared at his friend's shattered form.

"Yeah, I'm f-fine", was his mumbled reply. Sitting up slowly, Hope glanced around, seeming very alert despite his lethargic movements.

Cass covered his hand with his sleeve and wiped the spit off of Hope's face. "They're gone."

Hope visibly relaxed. "Help me... up." His voice was strained, but strangely upbeat.

Cass complied and they steadily got the thirteen year old to his feet. The elder friend winced as pain struck his side. "Thank you, Hope. I mean... really, thank you."

Hope leaned against the wall and looked at his best friend. He was smiling wide with wet eyes, and Hope knew in his heart that he'd done the right thing. "It's..." he coughed and spat out some blood. "...okay, Cass. I'm fine."

"Why didn't you fight back? Or... why didn't you at least try to?"

"Why would I?" Hope came off of the wall and tried to find balance on his feet. He hurt everywhere and he didn't know how he was going to make it home. Or how he was going to face his mother and answer her questions regarding his condition. Better yet, how am I going to face my father?

"Because it's-"

"Violence doesn't solve violence. I don't want to hurt anyone, I just want to be left alone." He tried to turn back to the direction of their neighborhood, but ended up getting extremely dizzy and almost collapsed. Cass caught him, as well as he could, and helped him up. "Let's get you home, Cass."

They began walking home, Hope's breathing slow and labored. Cass tried to support some of Hope's weight off of his dragging leg, attempting to do all he could for the bestest friend he knew he'd ever have. You're like my brother, you know that? The big brother I always wanted. "Thank you, Hope."

Snapping fingers came into Cass' vision, followed by their owner, the ever impatient Lightning. He blinked rapidly as he came back from his reverie. "What..." Last he knew, he had been sitting at the table eating his cereal while Lightning took a shower. Obviously, he'd gotten lost in his mind as his bowl was empty and the soldier was now waiting on him.

"You were staring into space", replied Lightning. She crossed her arms and raised a brow.

Cass just laughed as he put his dishes in the sink. "I was just remembering how heroic and utterly stupid our mutual friend can be." He turned to see Lightning's surprisingly unguarded expression of shock and pain at his mention of Hope before she put her usual mask swiftly back on, sealing her feelings.

She simply turned and walked into the next room muttering, "Hope isn't stupid", before sitting on the couch.

Collapsing onto the couch, he sighed. "Taking on four... three and a half people to save my ass isn't stupid?"

That image would not work out in her brain. She just couldn't imagine Hope fighting. During and after their time as l'Cie, yes. But not before. Not that scared kid that had been clinging to Vanille's arm. Ever since Cass had first mentioned it to her - Hope's willingness to take on bullies - she just couldn't understand how. "That's... true. That is a rather stupid thing to do. Who would defend your ass?" Cass chuckled. "It's hard to swallow, though. When..." Lightning gave her companion a glance as she began reconsidering letting him into her mind. But she stopped, remembering who she was doing this for and that she was glad that she was learning more about Hope during this civility. "When we first met Hope, he seemed like he'd never been in a fight in his life." A memory of a young Hope stumbling over his own feet came to her mind, making her smile inwardly. Until she remembered how she'd treated him for it.

Cass snickered and pulled his beanie from his pocket. He fingered it a little before placing it lazily on his head. "No, he'd been in a fight... he just... wasn't used to fighting back."

Lightning nodded and noticed the fondness in Cass' eyes that was always there when they spoke of their missing friend. "You guys are really close, huh?"

He shrugged, staring dully at the wall. "When we were younger, I worshiped Hope with an intensity approaching religious. He was my best friend, my role model and my big brother all wrapped into one. And after everything and he woke up... he was... mostly the same. He still treated me the same and I him. Even tried to help me deal with the loss of my mother, her being locked in that crystal and all." He bit his lip. "It didn't really work. Most time's I just wave off my pain and try to forget it's there. But Hope... He absorbs his pain... takes it and makes it a part of him that he can use to make himself better." Maker, I miss that dunce. He jumped up from his position, joker smile in place. "Well, now that we're all thoroughly depressed, let's shuffle off to the day job, shall we?"

Hope watched in horror as his brand began to appear on his arm. Please don't do this. "Please." He continued to struggle. Due to both the pain of his incoming brand and the fear that he would soon become that destroyer of mankind that Yeul had foreseen, he fought relentlessly. He couldn't let his brand come back, but it seemed there was no stopping it. His wrist felt like hot iron was being burned into it, all the way into the bone.

The vile woman stood and donned her cloak, watching all of her work finally pay off. As the young man before her cried out in sheer agony and thrashed on the table, she could only laugh. That is, until she saw the brand's progress subtly, but surely begin to slow. Fear and anger flashed behind her cold gray eyes and she stomped towards him. She was ready to finish him off. She had gotten him this far, she could most certainly finish what she had started. She always did. But as she stepped two feet forward, she was met with an invisible barrier that surrounded and shielded him. It seemed the one thing that was causing him the most grief was also protecting him, cocooning him. Castea growled and beat her fists against the force field. When that didn't work, she tried spell after spell, but it was no use. This frustrated her to no end. You little maggot. I won't allow this. She tried to see if the brand had grown any further, but the glow of his wrist was too bright.

The light emanating from his surfacing brand momentarily blinded Hope. Even as he closed his eyes, the light pierced through his eyelids. His brand would not allow him peace. He couldn't even find the solace of the darkness. His back arched as his skin felt like it was being fileted off of him. I can't do this. Please, please, just let me die!

"Hope!" A voice seemed to call out to him in his mind. Faintly, he recognized the bright, cheery tone, but his mind was so lost in his suffering that he couldn't find a way to figure it out. "Hope, hang on. Please!" Through his hazy state, Hope realized who it was. The accent should have been a dead giveaway.

"Vanille?"

"Yes. Now, you need to-"

Hope let out a shrill cry as waves of pain shot through him. His body heat was raising rapidly and sweat poured down his forehead. "I'm sorry, Vanille. I can't do-"

"Nonsense."

"Fang?"

"Looks like I gotta knock some sense into that thick skull o'yours."

A small smile came across his face but was quickly wiped away by another jolt of searing pain. His throat was parched and his lips had become painfully chapped in a matter of seconds. It felt as though he was laying on the sun. Or that he had swallowed it. Even though it was incredibly difficult, he tried to respond. "I'm sorry, you guys." It came out as a croaked whisper. "I can't live like this anymore."

"Shut it", snapped Fang. "People need you. Academia needs you. Snow, Dajh, Serah, Sazh, Lightning, they all need you."

Hope's eyes fluttered closed as he felt the life draining from his body.

"We need you", Vanille cried.

But Hope couldn't hear them anymore. While drifting out of consciousness, his body became numb, as if it had become used to the pain or his mind had just blocked it all out.

Castea bared her teeth as she growled. The kid doesn't even have his brand fully back yet and he's already blocking my powers. She sent a firaga towards him and this time, her spell came back at her. She had already cast protect on herself so there was no harm done except to her pride. "Sebastian! Get your ass down here", she yelled, fury filling every fiber of her being.

Sebastian shot down the stairs and over to her, followed by four men. "Lad-" Immediately he stopped, seeing the blinding white light emanating from Hope's wrist. The other men went toward the young man and were shocked as they were met with Castea's current problem.

"We have to get to him, Sebastian, but he's put up some sort of shield. I'm so close I can taste it. I just need to get closer. He's already fighting off the brand. Who knows if he'll be able to stave it off completely." Castea closed her eyes before grabbing Sebastian's arm, her nails digging deep into his skin, and pushed him further toward Hope's table. "I want that protection barrier down. All of you use the most powerful spells you can. But stop if the shield comes down." All together, Castea and her henchmen, threw every different powerful spell they had. It was no use. One of Castea's men tried a blizzaga spell, only to have it ricochet back and kill him instantly.

After a tireless ten minutes, nothing was working. Sebastian looked over to Castea with worry written on his face. "Lady Hidon. This isn't working." She didn't look at him nor acknowledge his comment. A yell was cut short from across the room as another man fell dead.

Castea gritted her teeth and walked as close as she could to Hope. "I..." She stopped and thought of how she could threaten him. She couldn't get close to him, so harming him was a useless threat. But she knew just the thing to use against him. As loud as she could manage, she yelled over the use of the others continuing with their casting. "Listen, Hope. I know you don't want to make me mad. I will get the invincible Lightning Farron down here. We'll just have to see how tough she really is as she's squirming next to you with a blade being driven into her gut."

Hope's eyes snapped open. He half expected for the roaring pain to come zooming back, but he still stayed in an utterly numbed state. He couldn't even feel the beating of his own heart. His eyes darted to Castea. He heard her words and knew she would make good on her threats. Her smile grew as he watched her. He couldn't move a muscle as it appeared that whatever was keeping him safe from the pain and Castea was also crippling him. He wanted to cringe, fight, yell, do something, but he couldn't even manage an eye twitch. But inside his head, he was screaming. No! You won't ever take Light. I won't let you. You can't. I'll... I'll... He couldn't do a damn thing. If this barrier didn't come down soon they'd go after Lightning. He would do anything for her. If he could, he would let down his protection, but it was out of his control. Everything was out of his control. And he couldn't stand it.

She could tell by the look in his eyes that she had him. Just a bit more. "Are you still watching out for her Hope?"

Hope's eyes widened. "Lightning. I—me too. I mean, at least I'll try. I'll try to watch out for you, too."

"I can't wait to hear her cries and screams echo throughout my halls. Imagine her blood gushing from her skin and the pure agony in her expression. Think about it, Hope."

And that was the last straw. Her words ignited his imagination. Vividly, he pictured Lightning beside him being tortured on a table of her own. The screams... the pain on her face... the cuts... the burns... the blood... her face as it paled... the light leaving her eyes... Hope had lost and he had nothing to cling to anymore. No hope was left for him and finally he gave. Every last bit of restraint left him. Despair took his heart and soul as he was ready to surrender. To death? To Castea? He didn't know. All he knew was that it was over for him.

His external suffering came back with a vengeance as his wrist burned with an intensity that was sure to kill him any second. Yet he recognized a feeling. Deep inside, a familiar presence awoke. Alexander?

As if answering to his name, the Eidolon began to emerge from within Hope. The entire room and no doubt the rest of the Ark shook as Alexander rose behind the young man.

Castea's jaw dropped as she watched the giant fortress appear before her. Turning to Sebastian, she saw his face mirrored hers. Stones began to fall as the ceiling and walls broke apart. Although the room was big, Alexander was too much for it. As he continued to grow, he reached the ceiling of that floor and broke through it. The last of Castea's men besides Sebastian were smashed by falling stone. The woman went to move, but every time she stepped out of place, giant pieces of rock and structure would fall before her.

Hope's eyes grew wide seeing his old friend return. He watched with shock while still wincing at the pain of his wrist. A small tear escaped his eye at the sight of his Eidolon and the sight of a new found hope. As he began to smile, a chunk of the ceiling loosened above him. It fell toward him along with several slightly smaller pieces. Hope's eyes squeezed shut and he cringed waiting for his inevitable death.

But it never came.

He opened his eyes slowly to see a giant hand hovering above him. Alexander had stopped the falling debris. He then tossed the rocks over into Sebastian, pinning him into a corner. The room was clouded in dust and dirt which made it hard for Hope to see and breathe. He began coughing and closed his eyes as the filthy atmosphere was stinging them. Then he felt an unbelievable pain in his side. His eyes shot open. The dagger that had once occupied his side had been ripped out and Castea held it at his throat.

"I won't..." She looked as though she were at a loss for words. Something Castea didn't experience much. "You get rid of him or I swear-"

Somehow, Hope managed to laugh. Locked in a dungeon, restraints tying him down, a knife held to his throat by a woman threatening to take everything away from him, and he laughed. "You really don't... know how Eidolons work, do you?"

Before Castea could even manage a retort, she was struck in the side by Alexander's hand. Her body was flung into the wall behind her. At the angle her head hit the wall, her neck had surly snapped.

Hope gasped at the sight before gasping at the pain in his side. The hole was still very much present. As he looked down at it though, he felt a cool sensation throughout his body as the wound healed shut. He looked up toward Alexander and gave him a smile. The giant then sent a careful fira to Hope's left hand that burnt off his restraint. Quickly Hope used the dagger that had been left on his chest to cut through the last of his bindings. As he was cutting the last one on his right foot, he slowed, staring at his brand. It captured his attention, not because of its return, but because of its new look. It was a crystalline blue. Though it reminded him a lot of Fang's, it was much bluer whereas hers was white. Hope's head shot up as he heard many others coming toward him from the stairs. Being distracted, he had yet to cut himself free.

Five more men came down from the third floor. Alexander began taking them on as Hope cut the last cuff. He scrambled off of his table only to be met with one of the nameless men under Castea. As he walked backwards, stumbling over the stone that littered the now devastated room, he tried to delve into his magic. If my brand and my Eidolon are back, then my magic is too, right? I just have to remember how to use it. The man in front of him was only a hair smaller than Sebastian and he was snarling toward Hope as he drew nearer. No doubt, he knew of Castea's death. His brand was visible to Hope being on the back of his hand. It was white like Fang's.

Swallowing thickly, and hoping to find his well of magic somewhere, he raised his hand. Closing his eyes, he searched until he felt that tingling feeling of magic course through him and into his hand. Hope opened his eyes as he released what he wanted to be a blizzara and instead was a very weak fire. The man snickered as the magic barely fazed him and he came closer, raising his own hand. Tripping on a large rock, the silveret fell backwards to the ground. Just as the large man was to send a powerful spell into Hope, he was smashed by Alexander's foot.

Hope smiled gratefully up at the giant. "Thanks, buddy." His Eidolon had already rid the room of the others yet Hope knew there were no doubt more ahead. I have got to figure out my powers again. Alexander won't be able to stay long. Grateful that the stairway was still accessible and still intact, he bolted toward it, his giant following behind.

As he reached the third floor and began running for the second, Hope stopped in his tracks. Zalera! I can't leave her. Remembering every turn from his cell, he ran to it. When he reached the hall of cells, he was amazed that he hadn't come across anyone. Unknowing of which was hers, he called out for her quietly, as to not alert any other minions. "Zalera? Zalera, where are you? It's Hope."

"Hope?!"

He heard Zalera's voice a couple doors down and went to it. "Hey. I'm gonna get you out, okay?"

Zalera was stunned. She had been wondering what all of the commotion was. "How are you free? What happened? Where's-"

"Castea's dead. I'll explain in a minute." Hope held out his hand over the lock and sent a blizzard spell into it. It was very weak, but he was glad he got it right. After a few more, the lock was thoroughly frozen. Hearing a few voices coming from the stairwell around the corner, Hope sent Alexander to take them out.

When the Eidolon had turned the corner, Hope kicked at the frozen lock until it busted. He reached for the handle only to be grabbed by the throat from behind. He was then turned around and shoved into the wall. Another burly man, whose white brand was on his face, began strangling the life out of him. His hands were huge and were able to easily trap Hope's neck in their grip. With the force and strength of the man, it wouldn't be long before he was dead.

"You think you are to just kill us all and escape? I don't-" The man was hit in the side of the head with a metal tray. His hands came off of Hope's neck as he was tackled by Zalera.

Hope focused on breathing as he had thought for sure that his throat had almost been crushed. He looked over to see the man toss Zalera down the hall like a rag doll. As he turned back to Hope, the young director let a thundaga loose from his fingertips, sending the man to the floor, dead. Hope was stunned by the ferocity of the spell considering what he was expecting. He stood and saw Zalera still on the ground, staring wide eyed at him.

Hope ran to her and pulled her up. "How did you-" Zalera stopped, noticing the brand. Her shocked face looked up to Hope as tears welled in her eyes. "They succeeded", she whispered.

"Yes, but we have to leave. Come on." He tried to drag her along, but she wouldn't move.

Guilt, regret and shame was all that filled Zalera. "I can't. I don't deserve to go." She shook her head as her eyes met the floor. "Just leave."

Hope took hold of her shoulders and shook her. He knew why she was doing this, but they didn't have time and he wasn't going to leave her. "No, Zalera. I'm not leaving without you." A faint smile crossed his lips as he thought of a way to get her to move. "Come on. Help me get out of here. I can't make it on my own." Her eyes met his. "Please."

An expression of determination came over her as she grasped his right hand tighter and led him out. "Okay", she yelled back at him.

He smiled and focused on following after her. As they came upon the second floor, they also met three men. Hope ran ahead of her and held out his hand hoping to send a fira. Instead, he felt his whole body go completely cold as a large blizzaga flew from him. The sheer force of the spell threw him back into Zalera, sending them to the ground. When they managed to sit up - Zalera momentarily glaring at Hope - they were amazed. All three men were frozen solid.

"Hope, I don't have much longer."

It was Alexander who was fighting above them on the first floor. His words snapped Hope back into reality. He turned to his companion who was staring at the men. "You okay?" Her expression remained as her gaze floated to Hope. He jumped up and grabbed her hand, pulling her up. He went to run for the first floor, but was stopped by her. "Not this agai-"

"No. Look." The woman pointed and then ran toward a desk. It held her bag and her chakrams along with Hope's gunblade. She tossed his gunblade to him before slipping on her bag and grasping her weapons.

Catching his gunblade, Hope beamed. It seemed they may actually make it out. "I thought I'd never see this again."

"Betcha thought you'd never wield magic again. Let's go."

He nodded and they ran. They made it up to the first floor and saw Alexander taking on a dozen last men.

The giant turned toward them slightly. "Go."

Hope grabbed Zalera and they ran toward the entrance. There were big, bulky stone doors and if they could just make it to them, they'd be free.

Just a few more steps and they would be at the doors. As he held out his hand for the handle, Hope heard a yelp from behind. He slid to a stop and turned to see Zalera on the ground. Her leg was painfully burnt and electrical currents ran across her skin. He went to help her up. "Come on."

"No", replied Zalera weakly. "Just go."

Hope frowned and pulled her up. "We do this together."

"How touching." The voice came from a man about fifty feet away that Hope didn't recognize. "But you won't be leaving anytime soon." The man was dressed in a white cloak that matched Castea's, obviously one of her more trusted associates.

Zalera grit her teeth and glared at him as he approached. "Barsilisk", she hissed, her voice dripping with venom.

"It's nice to see you, as well."

Without much thought, and to Hope's surprise, Zalera sent one of her chakram's toward the man. He easily side stepped it, but was soon met with another in the arm. The young Guardian had run up to him so fast, Hope had hardly made it four steps. She drew her chakram out of Barsilisk's arm as he sent a fira into her. She winced and slid away from him toward her matching weapon. As she grasped it, she felt another shock hit her, sending her to her knees.

The man smirked, but before he could make a move, he was hit in the back by a waterga. Clenching his jaw in annoyance, he turned to face Hope.

"No, go", yelled Zalera, urgently waving him off.

Barsilisk shook his head as the ground began to quake beneath them. "I'll bring this whole place down before I let you escape." I won't let you take away all I've worked for. All we've suffered for. The walls and ceiling began to crack and crumble. The violent shaking caused Hope to tumble to the ground. The man took a few steps toward him, his eyes piercing into Hope's. But when he opened his mouth to speak, he was struck with a chakram in the back. He let out a choked gasp before falling lifeless.

Hope shook his head, dispelling his stun, before running to Zalera's side. "Thanks."

"Don't mention it." She winced and pulled her leg toward her.

He bit his lip as he looked at it. He wanted to heal her leg, but he wasn't sure he could. As with his other spells, there was a good chance that he would get it wrong and hurt her rather than cure her. "Can you stand?"

She attempted to get up, her hand on his shoulder leveraging herself up, but cried out in pain. "No, I can't."

A thunderous crack sounded from the ceiling. The Ark had taken too much damage and was now beginning to come down. Alexander took out his last opponent and went to Hope. Zalera attached her chakrams to her bag's back straps before Hope pulled her into his arms. The Eidolon brought his hand down to them and picked them up. Bringing them close to his chest, Alexander walked them towards the doors. Massive pieces of stone fell all around them, much falling on the giant. Hope covered Zalera best he could and Alexander covered them with his other hand.

Bursting through the doors, they made it to a dark tunnel. It wasn't very long and they could see the sun through the entrance. Hope could feel Alexander being pulled back into him. The Eidolon let them down just before he was dismissed. The cave had apparently been affected too because it was crumbling as well. As fast as he could, Hope ran with Zalera in his arms. Making it out just in time, the cave entrance collapsed, sealing everything and everyone inside.

Breathing in a sigh of relief, Hope laid Zalera down. He then knelt beside her and ran his fingers through his hair. For minutes, all the two could do was stare at the cave in amazement. They were finally out and they were alive.

Hope put his hand to his bare chest and closed his eyes. Thank you, Alexander.

"Congratulations, little one. You are free."

He smiled. He'd completely forgotten what it was like to feel his Eidolon's presence and how his voice sounded in his head. Opening his eyes, he felt as though he'd lost all of his energy. In the rush of the situation, Hope had managed to drudge up enough energy to fight and survive, but now it was gone. All that was left now was pain and a feeling of utter exhaustion. Although Alexander had healed his most severe wound, all others were still very much present.

Seeing Hope's suffering through his expression, Zalera put her hand on his cheek. "Hey, are you alright?" Looking over his body, it seemed that question had an obvious answer. He still had many cuts, burns and bruises. Plus that escape had probably cost him a lot of energy. Not to mention how much his magic and Eidolon must have drained him. "You should heal some of this up", she suggested as she ghosted over a gash on his chest with her hand.

Smiling, he looked into her concerned gaze. He looked over her leg and drew in a deep breath. "Let me do something first." Tapping into his magic, he focused solely on healing her, trying his best to get his magic right.

Before she could stop him, the skin of her leg began stitching back together under his influence. Zalera closed her eyes and let the soothing magic take over her senses.

When it was all better, Hope drew his hands back. That took a lot out of the young man and he now felt ready to collapse. He bit his lip as the world blurred a bit. "There."

"You didn't have to..." She looked over at Hope and grabbed his shoulder as he tilted slightly to one side. She shook her bag off of her shoulders and got on her knees before him. "You need to heal some of your-"

Hope chuckled briefly. "I would, but it's surprising that I got the spell right on you. I'm not sure I could do that again." Their eyes met again as his vision refocused. "Plus I don't think I have the energy. Even if I did, I need to preserve my strength. We don't know if there are any more of them or what we'll come across out here." As he said that his eyes searched the area, realizing that now, they were on Pulse. They were in a forest at the base of a small mountain.

Zalera looked up. "It's morning." It was already hot and muggy out even though it was fairly early. But the two didn't care. They enjoyed the clear, crisp air that filled their lungs, replacing the musty, dank air they'd been breathing in for months. The sheer color around them was wondrous.

As they continued to survey the area with their eyes, Hope caught sight of the beautiful, giant crystal that was Cocoon. It stood proud over the surrounding trees and was surprisingly near. "We were that close", stated Hope, astounded. He attempted to stand, but felt tugged down by an offending hand.

"Nope." Zalera led him down and pulled out a rolled up mat from her bag, placing it under his head. "You rest. I'll stay on lookout."

Hope went to protest, but felt all his words catch in his throat as he yawned and his eyes fluttered closed. Soon, he found himself in blissful sleep. Something he hadn't experienced in far too much time.

Zalera stood and looked out over her home. She drew in a shaky breath as tears built up in her eyes. The last time I was here and free, you were by my side. Tears began to silently fall down her cheeks and she looked at Hope. You shouldn't have saved me, but thank you. I'll watch over you now. I owe you that.

After a few peaceful hours had swept by, Zalera continued to stand guard over a sleeping Hope. She had been a little leery of remaining in front of the cave, not knowing if more men would show up, but in favor of Hope's exhaustion, she thought it was best to stay. The morning was quiet except for the usual noises of the wildlife and beasts that occupied the landscape.

The green-haired woman felt a harsh mixture of joy and sorrow. She was finally free. Her and her new friend were finally out of that dreaded Ark and met with her beautiful home. All those months and Gran Pulse was still the same as ever. Although she wasn't alone, she felt lonely. The one person she had planned to remain with and protect for the rest of her life was gone. She would never come back. And no one could ever replace her. Even when Yeul was reborn, she wouldn't be the same. She wouldn't be her Yeul. And who knew who she'd be born to or where. Finding her would be impossible.

Zalera took a glance at the sleeping young man a few feet from her. She was glad that he survived and was grateful that he had gotten her out. But even so, as much as she hated herself for it, she felt an overwhelming need to kill him. He was again a l'Cie. A l'Cie with the power and destiny to kill off all that inhabited the planet. How could she not think about killing him? He was now a threat to all of humanity.

Chakram in hand, she walked slowly over to Hope. He was lying on his side, one hand under his head, unaware of his friend's cruel thoughts. As she stood over him, she brought her weapon to his throat. One sharp, silver spike was only a centimeter from his pale skin. Swallowing, she tensed. Her mind raced with thoughts of how it was the right thing and how it was for the good of everyone. Her hand began to shake ever so slightly though as she began thinking of him as a person. Not as a monster bent on destruction and an unleashed murderer, but as a simple, humble man. A young man that had a life, goals, hobbies, family, friends. He didn't choose this fate or this evil power.

I'm sorry. She quickly withdrew her weapon and walked away from him. Staring out into the small forest that surrounded them - for she couldn't stand to look at the poor kid she almost murdered - she thought about what she could do. I'll protect you. You saved me and helped me even though I should have died for my failures. And I will help you fight this fate. You will not be used by anyone to commit this unspeakable evil. If there is anyone left hunting you, I will kill them. And I will get you home.

"Zalera?" Hope groggily sat up and rubbed his eyes. "What-"

She turned, eyes wide, and looked at her fellow companion. "It's only been a few hours, you should rest more."

He smirked as he got up from the ground. Yes, he was sore and his body screamed for more relaxation, but he was free. He'd be damned if he wasn't going to enjoy his freedom and the ability to move untethered to a stone. Looking around the area, Hope's expression was filled with glee. "We did it. We actually made it. I thought I'd wake up to find myself strapped back to that..." His jaw tightened and his eyes squeezed shut momentarily. "... Maker forsaken table and it all would never end."

Letting go of her thoughts, she walked over to the overjoyed young man. "No, you saved us." She gave him a small, very genuine smile.

Hope looked at what seemed to be a new Zalera. They were both still filthy, covered in dirt, blood and sweat, but she seemed more beautiful now than she had ever been. Maybe it was because she appeared to be genuinely happy for the first time since he met her, or it was the way the sun and clean air graced her features, but she was stunning. He chuckled before coughing a bit because of his dry throat. "It was Alexander who saved us."

The young woman shook her head. "You saved us. I'm just sorry..." She looked down at his wrist and frowned. "I'm just sorry it took this to get us out."

"Yeah, I always covered my brand when we were l'Cie. So it wouldn't be noticeable, you know?" She brushed her fingertips against his left wrist and Hope winced, remembering the pain. "I guess... I should..."

Zalera then ripped off a piece of her skirt and wrapped it around his wrist, hiding his brand. "Well, when we find people, you should tell them. Not have them just find out and have to explain. This way, it'll be on your terms." Their eyes locked as hers searched his.

He fingered the fabric and grinned at her. "Thanks." Jumping as he heard a loud roar, Hope looked away. "We need to get going." He sighed and looked as if he were going to cry from happiness. "I can't believe I finally get to go back."

As he went to walk toward his bladeon the ground, Zalera put her hand on his chest, stopping him. "We'll find a safe place to rest. You need more sleep."

"No, I'm alright-"

"You need it, Hope. We're very close to Academia. Most likely all of those l'Cie are dead. There's no rush." Irritation and a hint of anger passed over his expression, causing her to take a step back.

No rush? "I've been locked up in that hole for who knows how long and my home is right there, so close that I could almost touch it and there's no rush? You may have your home back, but I don't. I have to get back to my home, to my family, to my friends-"

"To her?" Hope's anger seemed to dissipate quickly and Zalera's expression softened. She turned away from him as his shoulders relaxed.

"Yeah."

Taking a deep breath to steady herself, she gripped her chakram tightly. "I won't ever have my home back. Yeul was my home. Nothing means anything without her."

He cursed himself for getting angry with her. "Look, I'm sorry."

"No." She turned and walked to her things. She packed her mat back up and strapped on her bag and weapons. "Let's go. If we avoid all unnecessary monsters and keep a steady pace, we should get there by nightfall."

"Are you serious?" He knew that it wasn't far, but he had no idea that they were that close.

"Trust me. I know my distances." She picked up his blade and tossed it to him. "We'll get you home soon."

"Okay, Lightning, we both know you aren't going to use that", spoke Cass as he rolled his eyes. And here I thought we were getting along.

Lightning now stood in Hope's office with Cass against the wall, her gunblade at his throat. It was eleven in the morning and she was tired of his crap. She pushed her blade further into him so it was just grazing his skin. He didn't even flinch to stop her. "No, you're right. I won't. I can't" She drew back her weapon and holstered it. As he came off the wall, he smirked. When his eyes drifted from her, his body relaxed as he was ready to go back to his desk. When his guard was back down, she briskly stepped into him and socked him hard in the stomach. Cass let out a loud grunt as he collapsed to the ground, cradling his gut. "But I can do that." She stepped back away from him and walked over to the couch to sit down.

She had knocked the wind out of him so he attempted to suck in all of the air he could. "Really, I don't know what I did this time", Cass gasped out.

"Oh, I'm sure it was something." The two looked over to see Alyssa standing in the doorway. She had her hands behind her back and her sunny smile in place. "I just came to remind you of your string of meetings from twelve-thirty to four. If you're going to take a lunch, you should probably do it sometime soon."

Cass sighed. "Yeah, yeah." He waved her off as he picked himself up off of the ground.

"Don't hold back next time", said Alyssa to Lightning as she left the room.

The director looked to the door in mock exasperation and huffed. "What, is the world against me?"

"If you weren't such an ass hole-"

"All I did was compliment you." She gave him a death glare for cutting her off, causing him to throw his arms in the air. "Whatever, I give up."

The soldier crossed her arms and sat back into the couch while still staring him down. "Tactless and crude comments are not compliments."

Cass just rolled his eyes and walked to the door. "Like I said, whatever." He opened the door and slouched against it, rubbing his sore stomach. "Unless you wanna beat me up some more, we should probably get some lunch." She didn't move an inch and he itched his head through his beanie. "I'm going to get some food and I'm pretty sure my guard is supposed to come with me."

Keeping her steeled expression, she stood, not voicing her irritation or unpleasantness and followed him out.

Ten minutes and one silent walk later and they were down on the first floor. As Lightning went to walk toward the mess, Cass stopped her. "Not today. I'm seeing someone today."

Lightning rose a brow, knowing that Cass didn't socialize much. Figuring he meant Sazh or Maqui, she continued to follow him. As they approached the business owned by Jun, she grew curious. "What are we doing here?"

He looked back at her and smirked. "I told you I was going to see someone today. Have you eaten here? It's great."

"Yeah. Hope and I ate here."

Cass' expression changed to that of wonder. "Really?"

"Now, what can I..." Jun came up from behind the counter and stopped when she saw her new customers. "Well, I'll be damned. If it isn't the new director. How have you been, Cass?" The woman's voice held a bit more exhaustion than the last time Lightning had seen her. She also had some bags under her eyes and her white hair was tied in a messy bun. Her eyes lit up even more at the sight of Lightning. "Oh, and it's nice to see you too, young lady."

Cass smiled. "Hey, Jun. I'm doing fine. 'Cept all this work they got me doin' is killing my brain."

"Yes, well, no one ever said the job was easy. It was no wonder when Hope stopped coming by with the rest of you." A look of sadness and sympathy crept into her expression. "That poor boy. Maker, whoever took that young man deserves a hell of a lot of-"

"Nana?" A young boy with a mop of indigo hair came up next to Lightning and was giving Jun a curious look with eyes of a familiar violet-gray.

Quickly snapping her mouth shut before any harsh adult words could reach his little ears, Jun peeked out the window to look at him. "Dear, what are you doing out of school?"

He chuckled and rolled his eyes. "I got out early, remember?"

The old woman put her palm to her forehead. "Right. I'm sorry, honey." She waved towards Cass and Lightning. "You remember Cass, don't you?"

His face lit up and he jumped up and down. "Hey. I haven't seen you in forever."

"And this is his and Hope's friend, Lightning, right?"

The soldier nodded and gave the kid a small smile. She bent down and held out her hand.

The kid's eyes widened as he looked at her. Slowly he grasped her hand and shook it. "You're pretty."

Cass snickered to himself and slapped the kid on the back.

Lightning chuckled and stood. "What's your name?"

He gave a sheepish expression that reminded her of Hope's. "It's Arden. I'm eight." He looked between Cass and Lightning as he thought of a question. "When's Hope coming back?"

The three adults' smiles all wilted and Cass and Lightning looked to Jun. "Honey, you should head on home. Get Donya from the bakery to take ya home. Be careful, okay?"

His face dropped as he whined. "Aww, but I wanna spend more time with Cass and the pretty girl, Nana."

"No buts, Arden. Run along. It's only a block away. And no TV til I get home, all right. Remember, I'll know."

He sighed. "Yeah, because grandmas know everything." Arden turned and waved at the two next to him before taking off.

Jun wiped her brow with a sigh. "Man, what I wouldn't give to have his energy." She laughed and turned to Lightning and Cass. "What would you like?"

"The usual. For both of us", replied Cass. Lightning frowned at his assumption. "Don't get your panties in a bunch, princess." Jun leaned over and smacked him upside the head, causing Lightning to chuckle. "Ow!"

"That's no way to talk to a lady. Be a gentlemen."

He rubbed his head. "Geez, sorry."

Lightning pointed toward him, brows knit. "This one? A gentlemen?"

Jun gave a laugh. "Oh, he can be one." She faced Cass with a raised brow. "I remember when the three of you used to come around. You would be so sweet and courteous to her."

The young man bit his lip as he fought the warmth rising to his face.

This intrigued Lightning. "Who?"

"The young miss Nivien", responded Jun. "Even while she was dating Hope. But he was too good of a friend to do anything about his feelings."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

Jun just snorted and handed them their food. "Anyway, come around more often you two. Arden misses ya, Cass. And he's seems quite taken with you, dear."

Lightning quirked a brow. "Is it just the two of you?"

The woman sighed as she put Cass' money in the register. "We all lost people in the fall. His mother was killed in the attack on Eden and his father... my son is most likely crystallized in that world up there somewhere. It was a miracle I found Arden. I take care of him now." She wiped the coming tears from her eyes with a worn out smile.

"I'm sorry."

Jun reached out and patted her hand. "Don't be, dear. Trust me I've heard my share of apologies from Hope already. That boy is such a sweetheart, but he really needs to stop blaming himself for it all. I don't blame any of you. It wasn't your fault you were made l'Cie. Now go on and enjoy the sunlight."

They said their goodbyes and walked over to the Academy steps. Lightning sat and stretched, mind still encompassed in the woman's words. "I get why Hope works so much a bit more now."

Cass gave her a curious glance as he began to eat. "Really?"

"He feels guilty. I do too, but..."

He furrowed his brow as he looked at the usually hardened soldier. Hope really does soften her up. "It's not just that. There are a lot of people he wants to save and feels obligated to. Like it's his duty to save them all. Be it your sister, her fiancé, Sazh's boy, Nivien's parents, Arden's father, my mother... or every other person trapped in that crystal, Hope has worked tirelessly for so long to find a way to get them out." He hummed to himself for a minute and stared down at his food. "He finally finds a way and he gets taken. I mean, I don't mean to sound paranoid, but... it doesn't seem like a coincidence to me."

Lightning chewed slowly as she took in Cass's words. No, it doesn't.

With one last hit to the chest by Zalera's chakram, the final Ahriman fell dead. "Looks like they're not letting up anytime soon." She wiped the beading sweat from her brow as she turned to Hope.

He half grinned as he dropped his weapon to his side. "Yeah, what was that? Like the fifteenth group of monsters in the past hour?" He shook his head to rid himself of his weariness. "Let's go. We're getting closer and..." Stopping, he looked to Zalera with confusion. She was just standing there, staring at the ground, her face holding a tinge of hurt. "What's up?" He couldn't help the impatience that seeped into his voice. Hope was eager and ready to get back home after all that time away. He just hoped that there was enough of his genuine concern in his tone to mask over his rudeness.

There was a lone daisy growing a few feet in front of her. When her eyes had spotted it, she found that she couldn't draw her gaze away. It had been Yeul's favorite flower that she had always loved.

"The daisy, huh?" Hope came up to her and gently put his hand on her shoulder. She furrowed her brow and looked at him. "You told me a while back that she favored them."

She nodded her head in response. She then bent down and brushed its petals with her fingertips. "For as long as I knew her."

Hope bit his lip as he struggled with a question. He'd already asked her a couple of times, but there had never been the right opportunity for a proper response. "Zalera?"

Nodding in reply, she continued to caress the flower. The young woman already knew where the conversation was heading. And this time, she would tell him.

"How come you're not a l'Cie? I know that Yeul's Guardian is supposed to be one and it makes sense so..."

Standing, she looked into his inquisitive irises. They held curiosity, but still that same gentleness that told her it was all right for her to ignore the question and move on. "I was not her original Guardian. During an attack by some Pulsian beasts, Yeul was severely hurt. Although her Guardian healed all her wounds and she didn't blame him, he blamed himself. He felt he could not protect her, that he was a failure." She laughed bitterly. I now know how that feels. "Those doubts coupled with her previous injuries, turned him Cie'th..." A pregnant pause followed her words before she continued. "Yeul didn't want a Guardian after that, not when that was all her protector would have ahead of them when she was hurt or dead. So I told her... that I would protect her without the powers of a l'Cie. It was better than no Guardian at all. At least, I had thought..."

Hope sorely regretted asking the question. He couldn't believe he'd asked her anything remotely involving Yeul when she was already understandably having a hard time. Instead of attempting to console a woman who was still not ready to face her pain or carrying on with the awkward silence, he figured it was best to just leave it be and continue on. "C'mon."

And so they sat. Cass, Hildough and a few other men that Lightning didn't know and didn't care to know sat around a table in one of the many conference rooms of the Academy. They were discussing some form of business and she had long ago tuned them all out. She wasn't there to observe the meeting or to participate in it. Nor was she asked to, unlike when she worked with Hope. He'd wanted her involved. That or he was just being a gentlemen in asking her to be since she was with him anyway. Regardless, she stood beside the oak doors, listening to nothing but her surroundings and doing her job of guarding and protecting the director.

The day since lunch had been rather uneventful and dull, filled with meeting after meeting all matching the current one. What I wouldn't give to sink my blade into a monster or... ten. With all of her boredom and pent up frustration, she found herself craving the rush of battle. She just wanted something to kill. It'd been so long that the soldier felt as if she were having withdrawals. Of course, even if she weren't on irritating guard duty and she were able to kill off some wildlife, she knew it wouldn't satisfy. For what or... really, who she wanted to kill, was very much out of her reach. Her thirst for battle, blood and revenge was undeniably strong as she thought about it. She wanted desperately to rip apart the people that took Hope. They deserve worse than any torture I can deliver, but when I get my hands on them... Realizing that she was now shaking with anger and Cass and Hildough were both giving her curious and concerned glances, she took a deep breath, pushing all that back into the recesses of her mind.

Her ears twitched as she heard someone approaching the door out in the hall. Slowly, as to not alert the rest in the room, her hand found her gunblade. Her shoulders tensed as she waited. A few moments later, a swift knock sounded from the door before Alyssa stepped in. Lightning relaxed and released her hold on her weapon.

"Director... um there's someone here to see you." Alyssa seemed uncharacteristically nervous. "She says it's important."

Cass stood and half-ass excused himself for a minute before following Alyssa out the door. Lightning, having to stay with him twenty-four seven, followed as well, leaving Hildough to make idle conversation until they returned. They walked a little ways down the hall into another conference room. Alyssa then smiled and left. When they entered, they were surprised to be met by the eldest La Salle sitting at the table.

Putting his hands in his pockets, Cass walked over to the lieutenant as she stood. Lightning shut the door behind her and then leaned against the wall beside the door, only there because of her job. She looked up to see that the woman looked furious, making Cass a tad uneasy.

Nivien scowled at the young man before her eyes shifted over to Lightning. "You are excused for now, Sergeant."

Lightning was ready to speak up, but Cass beat her to it. "She's fine where she is." He kept his gaze fixed on the seemingly distraught woman in front of him as he spoke to Lightning. "Although I doubt there's a threat here... better safe than sorry."

The lieutenant stepped towards him, eyes ablaze. "I ordered her out."

"And I ordered her to stay. Last I checked, I outrank you now, soldier."

Now Lightning knew he had a death wish. His cocky tone in the face of that fuming soldier pretty much proved it.

"Oh, you want her in on this, too?" She turned in Lightning's direction and gave her a sidelong glance. "Well, this stranger is in on everything else, anyway."

Cass sighed, growing tired of the animosity. "Please elaborate."

Nivien's jaw tensed as she looked back at her old friend. "I just spoke with Captain Geno. What the hell are you doing, Cass?"

For a split second, his eyes twitched slightly, but it seemed Nivien hadn't noticed. "What?"

"You know very well what." She pushed him back by the shoulder. "What have you gotten yourself into this time? I thought you were-"

"Nivien, stop", ordered Cass, but she continued.

"This is exactly why Hope stopped talking to you."

Lightning's head snapped up. Stopped talking to him? This confused the sergeant for all she'd known since she'd met Cass was that he and Hope had been great friends. Maybe she should have focused more on the 'had' part.

Cass appeared to take extreme offense to her words. "Oh, really… and why'd he stop talking to you?"

A look of shock registered on her before she smacked him across the face. "What the hell is wrong with you?"

As much as she felt that maybe Cass deserved what Nivien was doling out, Lightning thought she should step in. Cass looked back at the woman in front of him, stunned. As he went to move towards her, Lightning walked in front of him. "I think you two need to cool it." She put a hand on each of their equally tense shoulders. At the contact, Nivien's furious gaze landed on her before she shook her hand off.

"Get your hands off me, Sergeant. No one asked for your help."

Lightning clenched her teeth. She didn't need to get into another spat with the woman. It was incredible that she'd gotten out of being disciplined the last time. She didn't need to risk it again, but the woman was hell bent on a fight. "I'm just doing my job, Lieutenant. Maybe it's time you leave. Go cool off a bit."

Nivien scoffed. "So, you wake up out of stasis and think you're some big shot, bad ass soldier? That you can just take on and command anyone you want? That you can do whatever you want?" She slammed her fist down on the oval table beside her. "What gives you the right to come here and just..." Her head lowered as she bit harshly into her lip.

To say that Lightning was shocked would be an understatement. Was the lieutenant having a nervous breakdown? Was she going around yelling at everyone else this way or was this wrath reserved for just the two of them? And if so, why were they the lucky ones?

Cass shifted his weight from one foot to the other. "Nivien... is this about..." He stopped and bit the side of his cheek. "This isn't about me, is it? This is about-"

Her head shot up. "No, this is most certainly about you. Hope told me to look out for you... to keep you out of this and... Dammit, Cass, do you want to die?"

What is going on? Lightning wanted to demand answers, especially since this all apparently concerned Hope, but she held her tongue until a better time. Again, she tried to step in only to again get her head chewed off by the lieutenant.

"No one wants your help, Farron. No one needs your help. Cass doesn't need it. I don't need it. Hope most certainly doesn't need it. So why don't you go back to protecting your statue of a sister?"

Lightning's body tensed as she tried to fight off the urge to beat the woman's ass. La Salle was out of line, very, very out of line, but she was still a superior officer. This needed to stop before things got any further, but try as she might she couldn't control her anger. "What did you just say?" She stepped towards Nivien, but Cass held her back. "Where do you get off talking about my sister? And I can protect whoever I damn well please. Hope is my friend, too."

Cass sighed. How did I become the mediator? "No, stop it. This is so not-"

Nivien pushed Cass off to the side and grabbed Lightning's collar. The sergeant immediately shoved the woman off her, held up her hand and tried to remain calm. If you were any other person, you'd be so dead right now. "I don't know what your problem is, but-"

"Enough", shouted Cass. He stood and picked up his beanie that had been knocked off in the scuffle. "Lieutenant, leave now. Return to your post before... before I have to report you." His eyes met the floor so he wouldn't have to see her expression.

Lightning crossed her arms and scowled at the woman as she walked to the door. "This conversation is not over." She turned and glanced at both of them. "Neither conversation is."

"Lieutenant", warned Cass.

She left the room without another word.

Lightning's head was swimming with thoughts. She was replaying the whole situation over in her head to try and catch every detail she could. She tried to piece things together, but couldn't. She turned to Cass. "What was that about?"

Cass looked over at the soldier. She sounded surprisingly calm, but with a glance, he could see she was straining herself. "I'm sorry about La Salle's behavior towards you. That was uncalled for and... I'm sorry." He put his beanie back on and straightened out his clothes. "We have a meeting to finish." Lightning opened her mouth, but Cass spoke over her. "Please, we'll talk about it later. We don't have time right now."

As much as Lightning hated the thought of waiting, she kept her mouth shut and nodded. At least this way she knew she would get real thorough answers if they talked about it when they had more time. And they would talk about it. She wasn't going to let Cass get away without explaining things. La Salle had appeared to be a decent woman and soldier before. And who knows, maybe she still was, but she let her emotions get the better of her. But emotions about what?

The silence was becoming unbearable between the two as they continued on their course to Academia. There hadn't been a spoken word since Hope had stupidly asked that question. Not even through the last four battles did they speak. Zalera's mind was still endlessly trapped in her memories while Hope was trying to find a way to bring her out.

As they walked through another small spans of forest, Zalera finally spoke. "You can say something, you know? I'm not going to go off at every little thing you say." She flashed him a small smile as she relaxed a bit in her steps.

Hope's eyebrows furrowed before he sighed. "Sorry."

"And stop apologizing." Punching him gently in the arm, she chuckled. The young woman had thought a lot about Hope over the course of the day and she saw him now as not only a friend, but as a sort of redemption. He would give her a second chance. If she could protect him and keep him alive, then maybe she wasn't a complete failure. Of course, he already had someone looking after him. But it wouldn't hurt for the legendary Lightning to have some back-up. "So what do you think I'll be doing once we get to your city?"

Hope smirked at her calling it his city. It'd been over a year and he still wasn't used to his leadership role. Even if he was though, he never considered it his. The city was created by its people. It was their city as much as it was his. "Well, we have rooms in the Academy building. You can stay in one of those. And... I don't know. What do you want to do?"

Zalera shrugged and looked forward. She had never once thought about it in her entire life – living in Academia or any other city. Since she was born, all she had was her 'family' and she had been more than happy with that. But now with her people gone and her new oath, it was something that was inevitable.

Her ears perked and her body stiffened. She could feel the slight tremble in the ground and hear the approach of a creature on their tail.

The young woman's alertness had not gone unnoticed to Hope. He gripped his gunblade as he stared uneasily at her. Before he could ask, she grabbed tightly onto his hand and ran, dragging him behind her.

They continued running for a few minutes until they'd lost it. They were a little off course, but she figured it was worth it. That is, until they had run themselves into a bigger problem. Just ahead of them, was a Behemoth King. Their eyes met briefly with worry and fear. They were too close to it to be able to run, but they knew taking it on would be suicide. Before they could step a foot back however, the creature came at them full force.

Hope raised his hand in an attempt to cast something, but Zalera pushed him aside and out of the way. She drew up her chakrams and stood ready for a fight.

Standing, Hope sent a few firas at the beast, trying to slow its speed. The beast snarled at them and threw it's massive paw down on Zalera. She held up her chakrams in defense and held his attack back.

While she was preoccupied, Hope threw an aerora spell. It hadn't been what he wanted. He knew full well that the Behemoth was immune to wind magic, but he still couldn't get his magic down. It was frustrating him to no end. Hadn't he been the best with magic? It had come so easily to him before, what was wrong now? He shook his head, dispelling his thoughts. Zalera was still struggling with the monster and needed help. Wishing he had his boomerang at his side, he quickly charged at the beast and sliced into the paw that had trapped his fellow teammate. Then he drew it back and went for the King's head.

With Hope's attack, the beast eased off Zalera with a roar of pain. Regaining her bearings, she saw Hope going for the Behemoth's head. She then threw her weapons toward the monster's face in an effort to distract it. It worked for the young man was able to get it in the eye.

Crying out in agony, the monster threw out his arm and hit Hope in the side, sending him flying into a nearby tree. Luckily, Hope had already cast protect on himself, but the blow had still knocked a lot out of him and would surely leave a giant bruise covering his side.

Zalera gasped as she watched Hope land. She went to run to his side, but he held up a hand signaling he was fine. Drawing up her chakrams she then ran for the beast. The creature noticed and went to swipe at her. He got a claw full of air as she slid underneath its hand and underneath the Behemoth entirely. Mid-slide she brought up her weapons and sliced down the belly of the King. She made it out just in time for it to come crashing down to the ground. Giving a sigh of relief, the young Guardian went to Hope. When she reached him, his eyes were wide. Following his gaze, she found herself having the same reaction.

The Behemoth king began to transform and now stood before them, ready for another go. They both quickly stood and gripped their weapons tightly in their hands. Giving each other a slight nod, they split off in different directions and stood at opposite sides of the creature. Hope sent spell after spell towards the giant before them as Zalera took it on with her weapons.

He felt his strength dwindling as the battle continued. One quick glance over toward his partner told him she was experiencing the same. Her steps and attacks were a tad slower and just a little off. Firing off a waterga instead of a firaga, Hope cursed himself. He was tired of getting his magic wrong.

Their one savior in this fight, should they need it, would be Alexander. Sensing the being inside him, Hope knew he wasn't ready yet.

Zalera, clutching her chakram, went to stab the monster in the face, only to have the Behemoth catch the weapon in his teeth. Her breath hitched in her throat as the monster flung her back. After hitting the ground harshly, she stood, dazed. The creature, ignoring Hope's magic, then went to swipe at Zalera. She was just a second too slow for it as its paw found purchase in her side. Its claws ripped into her and through her back. Screaming in anguish, she attempted to bring her weapon up, but her grip slipped and it fell to the ground.

Hope yelled out to the beast and sent a powerful firaga into its side. This caused the King to throw the young woman to the side and turn its attention to him. Its movements were jerky and slow and Hope could tell it was almost done. While dodging the monster's attacks, he was able to take out the Behemoth in a few more spells and hits from his gunblade.

Sparing no time after the beast hit the ground, the silveret ran to Zalera. She was laying by the tree he had landed against before. Her side was gushing blood and Hope fought the disgusted look surfacing on his face. Zalera's breath was erratic and her eyes were dull. He was just thankful she was alive. "It's gonna be okay, Zalera. You're gonna be fine." He put his hand over her and focused on healing her injury. As a minute passed by, nothing came. "No, this can't-"

"Focus, Hope", spoke Alexander softly.

Drowning out everything around him and all thoughts in his mind, he lost himself inside and closed his eyes. When he finally felt the tingling of magic reach his hand, his eyes burst open. His cure spells began healing her and Zalera's pained expression softened. "C'mon, Z, you're gonna be fine." His spells stopped working, however. Her side was still open and exposed to the outside, but he managed to stop most of the bleeding and healed shut one of the gashes.

Coughing, she gasped as she attempted to sit up. "Did you just call me Z?"

Hope nervously smiled and rubbed the back of his head. "Yeah, well... sorry." He pushed her back down when she cried out in pain. "Stop."

She laughed lightly. "Yeul used to call me that."

An apologetic look mingled with his concerned expression. "I'm sorry. Maker, I'm so sorry. I keep saying the wrong things and I can't even heal your wounds and-"

"Don't apologize. I've missed hearing the name." She gave him a warm smile and clutched his hand. "And you're doing fine with your magic. Your body has to adjust, especially since your brand was forced to surface. It will take a while before you get back to full potential." Gasping, she used her other hand to apply pressure to her side. "You need to go. Academia is only a small distance away now."

"No, I'm not leaving you." He jumped up, grabbed her chakrams and attached them to her back. He then picked her up, trying his best to ignore her pained cries of protest.

Zalera weakly scowled at him. "This is beyond idiotic. What if we come across more monsters?"

"We'll be fine."

Lightning arched a brow. "Are you going to speak sometime soon or are we just going to sit here?"

Sighing, Cass looked over to the roseate and frowned as he stood and walked over to the wall. They were back in Hope's office and Lightning was waiting for the director's promised explanation. "Nivien has just been a little... off since Hope disappeared." His words came out a little strangled, but he continued with an odd glint in his eye. "Which is understandable considering how close they were and the fact that his abduction led to her brother's capture as well."

"I know that, but... she had no right yelling at us. What was all that about? What was she talking about? Asking what you were into? That I thought I could do whatever I want?"

"Well, I think I know why she went off on you." He smirked as he looked into her confused expression. "You're a threat."

Lightning tensed and furrowed her brow. "What the hell are you talking about?"

He chuckled, finding her blindness towards the subject highly amusing. "Oh, it's unbelievably obvious. Hope has feelings for you." Her eyes darted towards him. "He's liked you as more than just a friend for a while now."

Eyes falling back to the floor, Lightning refused to listen to him. "That's ridiculous."

"Trust me, Lightning, I know what I'm talking about. And Nivien's just been jealous since you woke up. Even she knows." Lightning didn't say anything. She just looked off to the side with her arms crossed. "To tell you the truth, I think that's why they broke up."

Lightning's head shot up. "Because of me", asked the soldier, stunned.

Grinning, Cass walked over to sit at his desk. "Nivien loved Hope, there was no doubt about it. For some reason, though, he kept her at arms length. His work, his father's death... those were just excuses. I think... no, I know, that the real reason was because he was holding onto his feelings about you."

Giving him an incredulous look, Lightning was speechless. She'd had her suspicions when they were l'Cie, but she figured it had just been a simple crush out of adoration. She didn't think he'd still carried such feelings for her. She wasn't even sure how to feel about the thought. It was obvious that he was someone special to her, but she had yet to figure out in what way.

"I think it was the main reason for him throwing himself into finding a solution for waking those in stasis, as well. I think, initially, it was all to wake you up."

Her head was an utter disaster now. She couldn't even process half of Cass' words. She thought for a second, with the punk's record and smug smile, that he was lying and playing a trick. But something told her that it was the truth. Of course, this didn't explain what Nivien had been talking about with her accusations of his recent activities. Lightning gave him a suspicious glance. Before she could respond, however, her comm went off. A split second later, so did Cass'. They simultaneously looked at their comms. "It's Sazh."

"Alyssa", Cass replied.

They both answered only to give each other mirrored looks. Lightning stood and bolted out the door, still talking to Sazh. As she ran down the Academy's halls, his first sentences were all she could think about.

"He's all right, Lightning. Hope found his way home."