A/N: Four headaches, three computer failures, two rage quits and a partridge later and voila, chapter seventeen is finally here. I can't apologize enough. I know many of you thought that I wasn't coming back, but here I am. I hope you like! Please review :) And no, the partridge doesn't get a pear tree. Not in this economy.
Rights to the song Human used in this chapter belong to Civil Twilight
Reviewers:
Suiseiseki - Lightning and Zalera are a lot alike and both kind of keep the other in line, while one explodes, the other tends to remain calm. Don't worry, Lightning will be kicking some ass very soon and I'll be pulling Zalera back a bit.
Torch528 - Thanks so much. I'm terribly sorry for how long you had to wait. Hope this doesn't disappoint.
XXMariposaXx - I'm glad you're enjoying this story. Hope and Lightning are just tremendously perfect for each other that no matter how hard I try, mere words cannot even explain the deep connection these two have. But I try.
CritiqueShell - Thanks. I will be pulling Zalera back a bit in future chapters but she holds a purpose in this story as do all of my OCs. The confession scene actually came rather easily to me which made me kind of uneasy. I wasn't sure if that was a good or bad thing, but I'm super ecstatic that you liked it. And yes, the soiree, some things are to be revealed in this chapter…
Guest - I have actually changed my mind… I think that in the future I will end up adding a lemon. Maybe. And if I do, of course I shall do it tastefully. What kind of writer do you take me for?
Guest - Yes, they all need to be ready for what's coming. They'll realize this even more soon...
LightPhantom742 - Your reviews are always a pleasure to read. Yes, Cass' comment is not to be taken lightly. And Castea loves to stay just out of sight while being practically perched on our heroes' shoulders. But she'll get what's coming to her… eventually… maybe. Thanks so much.
Pa - I might. I might…
ManaMatchbox - Your excitement makes me so enthusiastic, you have no idea. Thank you for taking the time to review. There is a lot coming in this chapter and I hope it's up to snuff.
Deflow - Very chaotic. Very soon
0erbayunFang - Yup and he'll be joining in the adventure soon enough. I'm doing all right. Things have been crazy hectic for various reasons. Thank you for the concern.
Titus1994 - Sorry it took forever!
Guest212 - So sorry. I hope this chapter makes up for it.
A Better Day1 - Thanks so much again for your many reviews. They keep me motivated and excited to continue the story. You are truly awesome.
Revised: October 2015
"You know you're going to pay for that little stunt you pulled earlier," growled Lightning, playful maliciousness in her tone. She wasn't going to let the woman get away with how she'd handled her earlier. Even if the Pulsian was older, stronger, and a more experienced fighter, it wasn't her style to let these things go easily. Though Lightning did have much respect for her, she didn't like others thinking they had the better of her.
Zalera snorted in response. She paused mid walk, halting the roseate a few feet ahead of her. They had been walking on the sidewalk in the center of the city on the way to Hope's place, until the girl felt the need to speak of earlier brusque actions. At least Lightning seemed to be getting back to her normal self after their visit with Cass. Of course, she'd probably still be her same hard-headed self when it came to hers and Hope's relationship, no matter what anyone said. "Heh, really? You sure about that, hun?"
Hun? Visibly sneering, Lightning turned to Zalera with a glare. "Don't call me that."
A smirk passed across her lips as she replied, "Well you can try." A bit of a match with the soldier could prove quite fun and would help her assess Lightning's skills further. Although, she'd admit, the middle of the street was not a very suitable place for that.
Before Lightning could manage a retort back, she felt something shift. The air around her didn't feel right. This was before she came to notice how silent everything was around her. Her eyes drifted over the city, taking in the astounding sight that nothing was moving. Absolutely everything was still, frozen in time. The cars on the street seemed paused in mid-motion as did the small amount of pedestrians across from them on the other side of the street. The world was eerily still, not even a breeze was present.
The young woman's wary eyes met the others, finding mirrored worry and confusion come back at her. Zalera withdrew her weapons from her back straps at once as Lightning brought her gunblade at the ready at her side. The soldier glanced up, taking comfort in the fact that the clouds were still drifting in the sky. The rest of the world was still moving, still turning as any other day, but this part of the city lied on pause.
"Lightning," called Zalera curtly, drawing the others attention.
Her gaze fell back upon Zalera who was staring at something a ways past her, hatred and fury etched upon her features. Lightning turned to find a familiar sight some yards away. There before them, was a former opponent, or as she knew him now, Sebastian. Her gaze snapped away from him to the others crowding around the pair just a small distance away. Fourteen and more, she counted before her attention was drawn back to the bulky man in charge.
"Well, I'm feeling a bit of déjà vu. How about you, my fair guardians?" Sebastian stood tall, a proud smirk across his features that were visible this time.
Lightning could only stare at the man as an untamable amount of rage built up inside of her in a matter of seconds. This was the man that had distracted her from protecting Hope. This was the man that had taken great pleasure in bringing Hope to the brink of death so many times. And Lightning knew that he would do so again when given the chance. Murder was far from the woman's mind as she knew that Sebastian deserved far worse than death. Ice cold eyes locked on her target as she gripped her weapon hard, causing her whole arm to shake with tightly wound anticipation.
"How dare you show your face around here," spat Zalera as she seethed. There was no way that she was going to let these assholes best her again. No, not this time. Not after what you did to Yeul. Quickly raising her chakram to knock out the first worthless bozo in the way of her target, the warrior soon paused as Lightning zoomed past her, taking the nameless minion down in an instant.
The roseate lunged for her first prey, catching him off guard and slashing across his chest swiftly. He fell with a thud as she went for another, effectively beginning the battle. Red was all she saw as she seemed to mindlessly attack all in her way. Lightning was like a rabid dog that had been let loose, tearing into anything that crossed her path.
Three shots fired from her gunblade toward one large man before her, aimed at his face, but the bullets bounced off of his protection spell. This didn't surprise Lightning in the least as she roundhouse kicked him in the gut only a second later, her blade then sinking into the back of his neck. A chakram flew past her, nearly slicing her bicep as it hit another opponent, letting her know that the elder was fighting as well.
A blizzard spell caught the emerald haired woman in the ankle, momentarily freezing her foot in place. Two l'Cie simultaneously came at her from both sides as she was immobilized. She ducked when a small dagger was flung at her head as she was caught in the side by a fira from the other attacker. Gripping her side, Zalera drew up her chakram and slammed it up into the flame thrower's jaw, a spike stabbing up through skin and muscle and into his mouth. Blood gushed down her arm from the shrieking man before her as she turned toward the other man.
The other attacking l'Cie with a visible brand on his left hand looked to his flailing comrade with disinterest before going for the girl again. His dagger was aimed at her chest before her unoccupied arm came up with her other weapon, blocking the man's attack. While holding off the branded annoyance, Zalera let go of the chakram now stuck in the dead man's head, his body limply colliding with the ground. She resolved to get her chakram back after finishing off the l'Cie currently attacking her.
Lightning slid beneath the female l'Cie she was now facing, a woman just as muscular and physically intimidating as many of her friends, dodging the sweep of a blade. The young soldier then went to stab her, but was shocked to find no one there.
Seconds after, she saw brisk movement in the corner of her eye. She ducked a sword as it came toward her right eye, taking a nick to the cheek in the process. The small stinging sensation did nothing to stop the trained woman as she brought up her gunblade in gun mode and shot numerous times into the l'Cie's stomach. With a loud, rough cry the woman crumpled to the ground clutching her stomach as she attempted to cure the damage. Lightning was having none of that and sliced the woman's head clean off her shoulders before the first cure spell could even be muttered.
Blood from her previous opponents dripped down the tendrils of her pink bangs and into her face. Paying this no mind, the girl flipped towards another of the numerous l'Cie still standing. Before she could make it, however, a large hand reached out to grasp Lightning's calf, pulling her back and slamming her into the wall of a tall brick building.
A giant fire ball struck Zalera in the leg, freeing her foot from the ice, but also scorching the appendage quite badly. The pain was blocked out though as she fended off another attack following the last one. A new pain followed bringing the warrior to her knees as a thunder spell ran through her entire body.
Eyes and mind began to lose focus in the aftermath of these attacks. The world spun around her as her body shook involuntarily. Within moments she suddenly felt weightless, like she was floating. No, she wasn't floating, more like flying. Sideways.
A cry was emitted from her throat as she hit the top of a car that had been parked by the curb. Her body rolled off the vehicle only to flop onto the rough pavement that was the street. Groaning in anguish, the woman spat out a mouthful of blood and began to stand, knowing that a few of her ribs were now bruised and broken. She regained her balance only to find herself surrounded by four more opponents.
A gloved fist came toward Lightning's face from the surprisingly lanky guy that had grabbed her. Quickly moving her head to the side, she watched as the fist flew into the wall before she kicked the l'Cie's legs out from under him.
"You're quite the fighter," was all the lean man got to say before she stabbed him in the face.
"You have no idea." Lightning stood, her head spinning and her body aching. She breathed at a fast pace, her lungs burning as she fought a multitude of others in the seemingly never-ending battle.
A ways away the soldier could see Sebastian making his way toward a distracted Zalera. He had his eyes on the elder, but Lightning knew he was speaking to her.
"And just think. Last time this happened, my beautiful queen was whisking your charge away as we fought, leading him to his doom. This could truly be some heavy déjà vu. I wonder what she shall do with him now."
Fury burned through Lightning. Her rage vanished, though, when she realized just how close the man was to Zalera who still hadn't realized his proximity to her.
Without her notice, a sword came toward Zalera, ready to slice open her stomach.
"Lookout," screamed Lightning as she came between the girl and the offending weapon. The blade slashed through Lightning's abdomen, sending her to the ground at Zalera's feet.
The warrior looked down at her teammate, momentarily horrified. Her head jerked up, viciousness in her green irises as they came to see the man who had dealt the blow.
Sebastian withdrew his weapon and let it vanish from his palm. "One down."
Zalera cursed the man before her as she went to stab the hulk who had hurt so many in her life. As the weapon came down, it hit a barrier that shimmered around him, protecting the l'Cie from the hit. Her chakram fell from her hand causing the woman to growl.
"You can't seem to protect anyone, can you? Not either of your tribes. Not Yeul. Everyone dies while you're just too weak to do anything." Sebastian laughed at his words while Zalera fumed and her eyes darkened, a blinding fury gripping her. Her fist came up and collided with his jaw only for him to grasp the back of her hair and slam her head down into a car beside her not once, not twice, but three times before he let her unconscious body fall to the ground next to her chakram and fallen comrade.
Sebastian turned his gaze toward Lightning who was unconscious as well. "It seems that this would be goodbye." His blade was then summoned back into his palm, ready for battle. Sebastian brought it down toward the sergeant's still form as it made the plunge toward her chest.
Lightning's eyes shot open as she rolled away from the descending blade. With a slightly pained smirk, the soldier gripped her gunblade and stabbed it into the man's chest. She was ready to stab again and again until there was nothing left but bits of the large man until…
She blinked.
The world was right again. Cars were moving. People were walking, talking and laughing. Stop lights were changing. Zalera and Lightning were back as they originally were, facing each other, ready to argue. All marks were gone. Injuries nonexistent. The scene around them was even left unmarred.
Wide eyes stared into each other's, leaving Lightning to mutter a quiet, "What the fuck?"
When the two came to Hope's driveway, Lightning stopped abruptly, needing to calm her torrent of thoughts.
They had found nothing. After the world had gone back to normal, the two women searched the surrounding area for a good half hour, frustration, confusion and devastation within them. It was like the battle had never occurred despite that they knew it had.
The sergeant had immediately whipped out her comm then and called Hope, fearing the worst. The young man answered, half laughing into the phone, presumably at one of his friends surrounding him. Nothing was wrong and he was just fine. She had hung up and they walked silently back towards the house since, both still on guard of another attack and yet completely wrapped up in their own minds, trying to make sense of the situation.
Zalera came up beside the stiff girl and said something completely unexpected. "We can't tell him." Lightning's head whipped around to sternly face her companion. "Or anyone for that matter."
"And why the hell not? Hope could be in danger. We sure as hell are."
Zalera's jaw tightened as she began to sort out her thoughts into a suitable explanation. "Whatever just happened, no matter if we have the wounds to prove it or not, it was intentional. They came after us for a reason. Actually, probably you for a reason. They didn't go near him. And you wanna know why?" A look crossed over Lightning's face that let her know the girl knew, but she carried on. "Because Castea is using you against him, using her little mind tricks to get him to go for the crystals by attacking you. Because no matter what, the one thing that will get him moving is you."
Fists clenching at her sides, Lightning stared hard at the ground. "So? Maybe we should get the crystals."
A protest was at the tip of the elder's tongue before she was cut off.
"We aren't getting anywhere with this. We should just do the damn job and face these stupid l'Cie. Instead of continuously avoiding the problem, let's face it-"
"And get Hope killed?"
Lightning stared into Zalera's eyes with a hardened expression, rendered completely silent.
"Get the rest of the world and ourselves obliterated? Because that's all that will come of getting those damn crystals-no", cried the warrior as Lightning began to speak. "You don't know what will happen. You didn't see it. Yeul did. She saw a world decimated, people incinerated in seconds. Or your precious Hope dying trying to stop it." Zalera gripped Lightning's shoulders tightly, trying to get her point across. "Your first instinct is to fight, to protect at all costs. I don't blame you because it's mine to, but nothing good will come of the crystals nor trying to obtain them. This time we have to wait and figure out a strategy to take Castea down."
"We still should tell them. Tell him. He needs to know, to be prepared."
"No." A sigh fell from her lips as Zalera let go. "You and I both know that will only set Hope off. He can't know."
Hope walked into the kitchen under the guise of getting something to drink, but really he just needed a moment alone. His head was still reeling from the events of the previous day and of the potential danger surrounding him.
He had told Lightning that he was fine, because physically, he really was. But otherwise, he wasn't feeling so hot. "I can't stop it, can I? I can't stop what's coming."
Tugging up his sleeve, Hope looked at his brand that seemed to hold the fates of so many, not forgetting his own, within its overwhelming power. While looking at the brand, he couldn't help but want to slice the blue tattoo off. Harleen had been entirely wrong. It was he who didn't belong. Not Zalera. Hope was the abomination. The one who deserved to be isolated from not only all previous inhabitants of Cocoon, but from Pulsians, as well. I'm no better than Castea…
While holding an empty glass originally intended for water, the silveret clutched it tightly until it shattered in his gloved hands, glass pieces and shards falling to the tiled floor.
Lebreau and Sazh, being closest to the kitchen, heard this and were about to check it out when the front door opened, Zalera and Lightning stepping through.
The brunette sighed as she shook her head at the two. "And where have you been? You just ditched me. I feel insulted. A whole hour and a half I've been with these knuckleheads."
"Hey," cried Maqui. "You don't gotta get rude."
"Oh, don't get your boxers in a knot." Lebreau chuckled as Maqui puffed his cheeks out and made to throw a couch pillow at her.
Sazh rubbed his forehead and sighed watching the two. He turned to Lightning as she came up beside him, a hint of worry on her face. "Seriously, though, where've ya'll been?"
Lightning crossed her arms as her eyes scanned for Hope, causing Zalera to answer in her silence. "Don't worry about it."
"Where's Hope."
Sazh smiled at the anticipated question from Lightning. "In the kitchen."
The young man turned from in front of the garbage can to see Lightning come up behind him. "Hey, Light."
Lightning felt a weight lift off of her chest. Even though she had called him and Hope had said that he was okay, she needed visible proof. She hadn't realized at all how worried she'd been until seeing him alive and well in front of her. Lightning allowed a slight smile to accompany a greeting. "Hey."
I can't tell you.
The soiree. It was dreaded by all three of the attendees left in the Estheim residence as they dressed in their formal wear.
Zalera was not thrilled in the least for the impending ritzy party. She knew she would stick out like a sore thumb for obvious reasons, but she would go. For Hope and Lightning.
Hope hated these things. Every Year. They were filled with many of Kori's obnoxious and thoroughly stuck up friends. He was more than likely to run into her father which never ended well. Nivien would be there, making things undoubtedly awkward, especially considering how their last conversation had gone. And then, of course, there was the hostess herself who would no doubt drape herself on his arm and ask him to dance numerous times, Hope each time politely declining, until he would eventually give in. He could feel the migraine coming.
The one thing, or person rather, that separated this year's bash from all the other boring and sickening ones, was Lightning. She would be coming. He would get to have her beside him. Maybe not in the way he would have liked, but it was still immensely pleasing, to say the least.
Lightning hadn't been to a party since she was a happy-go-lucky fourteen year old. And it's not like my experience with those parties is going to help out with this one. A party in a two story house with a blaring stereo and a spiked punch bowl versus a soiree. Maker, kill me now. She would have to be around so many people, and whether they were unpleasant people or otherwise, the roseate was not a people person.
And the dress. Don't get her started on the dress.
Lightning groaned at the annoyance that was wrapped around her body. The thing was beautiful, she had to admit, but it was highly unnecessary.
Zalera snickered behind her on the bed. She'd come in a few minutes ago, ready for the hell awaiting them, and waited for the girl before her to get done with her finishing touches. Zalera had never seen Lightning squirm before, but she was definitely squirming in that gown.
A growl was emitted from Lightning's throat before she huffed and glared at the woman behind her. "And what is it that's so damn hilarious?"
Coughing to cover her amusement, Zalera stood, her emerald green spaghetti strap dress shimmering in the light of the soldier's room. It hugged her body until it hit the knees where it flowed to the floor. There was also a slit on the right side up to mid-thigh. Her hair was pulled back into a high ponytail, beads still remaining. "You really don't like to dress up." One last chuckle bubbled up before she stopped herself. "I don't know why you're so fussy. You look beautiful."
She got a raised eyebrow in return for her compliment. "Well... thanks... I guess. You too, but... what is it with your obsession with green? You don't always have to match your hair, you know?" Her heels are even green.
"It also matches my eyes, if you hadn't noticed," added Zalera wryly.
Rolling her eyes, Lightning headed for the door before stopping, her hand paused on the knob. "Something's going to happen soon. I can feel it."
"I know. We can't let it get to us now, though. We have to grin and bear it, for now. Or in your case, scowl and bear it… Yeah, like that." Zalera laughed at Lightning's expression, before maintaining seriousness. "For Hope, remember. We'll be on guard if anything happens at this shindig, although I doubt anything will."
She nodded before opening the door and leaving to find Hope. As she descended the stairs, she caught sight of Hope shortly before he saw her. She had to admit, he looked very handsome in his suit. He was standing at the bottom of the stairs in black pants, accompanied by a tucked in white dress shirt, a vest of pale green that brought out his eyes, and his black suit jacket over that. She noticed it was still unbuttoned as Hope brought his black silk tie around his neck and slipped it under the collar of his shirt.
Hope paused as he heard the girls descend. Zalera looked stunning in her dress. Green, I should have guessed. But Lightning was truly a sight to behold. Her gown was simple. A deep purple gown that accentuated her curves wonderfully and flowed down from mid-thigh. It was strapless and had a sweetheart neckline, open backed, with crystal like gems lining the top of the front. It was perfect for her. Her hair was in its normal style of being tossed over her shoulder, with light make-up dusting her face. The lightning bolt necklace still dangled down around her neck, for it seemed that she never took it off. The poor boy could only stare as she made her way down to him.
Lightning smirked at the teen who was all but gaping at her. She took the tie from his hands and finished tying it for him, then tucking it into his vest. "It's impolite to stare, Hope." She poked him in the forehead which seemed to draw him out of his daze, a light pink now dusting his cheeks as he stood bashful before her. She buttoned up his jacket as he remained unmoving.
He found his words when the last button was done, yet they came out as a light whisper. "You look gorgeous, Light."
A brow was raised as she replied, "You don't look so bad yourself."
The Grand Hall was where the soiree was to be held. The building had been funded and built by the Harleens to be used for grand speeches, fundraisers, galas and balls. Although, everyone knew that its original and primary purpose was to be for Burien Harleen's precious daughter's annual soiree. Anyone who'd lived in Palumpolum before the fall knew this especially, because the Harleen Soiree had been a yearly tradition there as well, since Koriandr turned five. On Cocoon, it was more for a celebration of Kori's existence. Now, the 'said' reason behind the soiree was to celebrate life. 'Because the fall of Cocoon taught us to appreciate and cherish the lives we're given'. Right. That's exactly what tonight was about...
It was a very large stone building reaching about two hundred feet in height. Stone steps led to an intricately carved archway. Angels were etched into the stone surrounding the words 'We shall live on'. This had been a common phrase in the early days after the fall, when many needed the motivation to carry on with their lives without their loved ones. Inside were marble floors and marble ceilings. Mahogany tables with silk tablecloths lied around the rim of the dance floor beside pillars that were purely decorative. There was a stage before the floor for entertainment, performances or speeches. An orchestra was set up there for the night, providing the music and adding to the overall high class atmosphere. It was just as to be expected, nothing but the best. Or as close to the best as they could get considering the immense differences in throwing a soiree on a thriving Cocoon and throwing a soiree on a struggling and newly established city on Pulse with not even a tenth of the usual population.
After being dropped off by Dornum, Hope and company strode into the building immediately met by a waiting Sazh, Maqui and Cass.
Hope was already annoyed, having gone to enough of these for a lifetime, but he put on a happy face, smiled widely and was ready to be a lively guest. He did it every year since the start of these parties on Pulse.
Lightning, while genuinely shocked, merely lifted a brow in appraisal. Although the place was beautiful, the whole thing was completely unnecessary and was a waste of time and money. She frowned before turning back to keeping watch over Hope, his odd enthusiasm amusing.
Zalera was wide-eyed at everything around her. She'd never seen anything as fancy and elaborate in the whole twenty-six years of her existence. At face value, gatherings on Pulse couldn't compare. But really it all seemed so cold and intimidating. The green-haired woman found she would much rather be at a Pulsian bash any day.
"Heya, guys," exclaimed Maqui.
Hope shook his head at his friend and chuckled. "Every year, Maq? You know, I figured you would stop wearing those to formal events eventually."
This caused the twenty-three year old to gasp dramatically. "Never! I will wear my goggles every day until the day I die," he announced proudly.
Cass smirked. "Don't even try. We all are pretty sure that he wears those things in the shower, man." The young man then pulled the goggles up from the elder's head just enough before letting them snap back down, a pained yelp preceding the action. "It's the only committed relationship this kid'll ever see."
Maqui growled and rubbed his head. "Why I outta-"
"Where's Yuj and Lebreau," asked Hope as he realized that their little party was missing some members.
Seeing as Cass and Maqui were too busy quarreling to answer, Sazh stepped in. "Lebreau went off to find Kori... and Yuj... didn't really feel like comin' to this, ya know?"
"Right..." Gadot's still missing.
Another yelp was heard as Cass shoved Maqui who fell to the floor, practically flailing as he landed. "Ow..."
"So," started the triumphant brunet, now hooking an arm around Sazh's neck. "How's the overgrown chicken?"
Sazh smacked Cass upside the head with a frown. "How many times do we gotta go through this?"
"Not a chicken. Right. Got it," confirmed Cass as he rubbed the abused area with a pout.
"Not trying to be very popular tonight, Cass?" inquired Lightning sarcastically.
"When is my baby brother ever popular?" Kori decided to make an appearance within the small group, Lebreau at her heels, rolling her eyes. "But he looks so dashing in his tux. Aren't you just so adorkable?" She mussed up Cass's hair, causing her brother to attempt to bite her hand as she pulled it away.
Unsuccessful again. Damn. "It's wonderful to see you too, sis. And I am lookin' pretty sharp, huh? More than I can say for you. Jeez, Kori, I don't know if I can even be seen with you." He then abruptly turned on his heel and walked away, entering further into the mass of attendees.
"You little punk, get back here," Kori hollered. "Whatever." She then rolled her shoulders back into a proper stance and attempted to put on her dignified appearance. She was wearing a quarter sleeved gown of a deep blue, black roses embroidered into the material. It hugged her midsection and cascaded down to the floor from her waist. Her long red hair was in an updo, a few strands intentionally framing her heart shaped face. "Anyhow, I'm very glad you all could make it. There's a buffet table over there if you feel a little famished. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have guests to entertain." With that, the girl walked away, already engaging an unsuspecting couple.
"She's a completely different person around her brother," commented Lightning.
Lebreau snorted as she smoothed out her short black and violet dress. "Pretty much. They're actually really adorable."
A shrug of the shoulders was Maqui's response before he said that he was starved and was going to check out the food, Lebreau and Sazh following.
"Hope! Light!" called a young boy's voice. They turned to find little Arden running up to them, an exasperated Jun not too far away. Hope nodded toward her to silently tell her that they'd watch him for a bit. She smiled, walking off with a grateful nod.
"Hey, Arden. I see you're causing all kinds of ruckus for your poor nana again." Hope bent down to ruffle the kid's blueish-purple locks.
"Hey! Nivien combed that for me," he scolded with a pout.
The silveret raised a brow at this. "She here?"
Arden smiled widely. "Yup, she came over to help us get ready and came with us here. She's been coming over bunches lately, since her brother's been gone so much."
"Ah," replied Hope as he stood up.
"Well, don't you look all handsome," spoke Zalera. She crouched down before the boy and held out her hand, having not met the kid before.
Arden giggled and blushed at the attention before thrusting his hand out to shake hers. "I'm Arden Rosch. I'm eight years old."
Lightning's eyebrows shot up at the surname and she turned toward Hope with a questioning expression. She had never heard who his family was that he had lost. Hope frowned.
"Hondura Lin Zalera, twenty-six."
"That's a long name," replied a stunned Arden.
"Not really. You can call me Zalera, though." The warrior looked up to see the silent conversation going on between her two companions before returning her attention to the young one before her. "Why don't we dance, Arden?"
"Okay!"
As the two walked off to the dance floor, Lightning turned to Hope, intending to ask the foreseeable question. He, however, was already walking off to the buffet table and had made it there before Lightning approached him. "Rosch, huh?"
Hope sighed, picking up a small plate and selecting some hors d'oeuvres. "Yup."
"His son?"
"Yup."
Brow furrowing, she contemplated this for a moment. "I didn't know he had a son..." She had thought that all Yaag Rosch had was his job and duty... not a family.
"Apparently, not many did." He paused as he took a bite out of something that appeared edible before making a sour face and quickly setting the rest down on his plate. Nope. Most certainly not food. At least not good food. "Rygdea said that Arden's mom was just a one night stand and that Arden's existence hadn't really changed anything for Rosch. He was still focused on his ambitions and his career. Arden's mother pretty much raised him solo. Jun was a part of his life far more than Rosch ever was."
"But Jun said that Arden's father was supposedly still alive and crystallized in Cocoon. He died."
Hope chewed for a moment before swallowing. "He was presumed dead. No one is really quite sure of that. After all, we last saw him alive before-"
Lightning shook her head. "Don't you remember hearing the explosion? You don't really think-"
"I choose to hope," spoke Hope softly. "And so does Jun. I don't have the heart to tell her of my suspicions. It was her son."
The soldier clicked her tongue just as they were approached by a very stoic faced Harleen. "And how are my guests today?" His tone was polite as ever, but you could see the viciousness within his eyes.
Before any rash actions could be made by the quick-to-anger woman at his side, Hope simply wrapped a reassuring hand calmly, yet sternly around her upper arm. He didn't feel the need to return the man's fake smile, though, and just simply replied in an equally, if not mockingly, polite response. "Very well, and you?"
He began to reply only to be cut off by his daughter joining his side. "Daddy's doing wonderfully, aren't you daddy," replied Kori, a stern expression meeting her father's gaze. "And he's going to be a very kind host to everyone tonight, right?"
With a smile and a nod, the eldest Harleen suddenly pushed all of his anger and agitation away. "Of course, my dear," he agreed, pulling on the bottom of his elegant cream suit jacket as he bowed before his two guests. "In fact, I have others to greet. Excuse me."
Kori sighed as he walked off. "I don't know what he has against you. I'm sorry about him, really."
Hope waved off the apology as he took another bite.
"Anyhow, I wanted to also say, Hope, that I know you're going through a lot. I hope you know that I'm always here." She then leaned in to him, her lips grazing his ear as she whispered into it. "For anything." This caused Hope to choke on the food going down his throat as the red head walked calmly away, ignoring the daggers being shot at her by a certain young woman.
Clenching her jaw, Lightning was astounded by the gall of the girl. I know I have good hearing, but I'm pretty sure she wanted me to hear that. What a little... She then turned her heated glare from Kori's retreating back to the coughing man beside her.
After a bit of a choking fit, the director managing to get the food down properly, he straightened up, a blush staining his cheeks. He scratched the back of his head nervously as he caught sight of Lightning. He laughed, catching her off guard.
"You're cute when you're jealous. And you have the most adorable pout."
Slamming her heel down on his foot and ignoring the yelp of pain, Lightning crossed her arms. "I'm not pouting, I'm scowling. And I am not jealous of that princess."
Hope only chuckled further. "Well, then that's the most adorable scowl I have ever seen."
Time passed with Hope engaging in many other various conversations with his people, Lightning standing beside him all the while, making certain that none of them were a threat. She would also be sure to be attentive to everyone else around her, keeping track of their friends.
Zalera was still watching over Arden, only now she was watching him with Jun as they chatted.
Lebreau and Maqui had taken up dancing with each other. Lightning could only smirk as Lebreau tried to loosen up the mechanic's stiff movements. Now, though, they were dancing fluidly together, a slight hitch only every once in a while when there was a misstep.
Sazh had left about twenty minutes before, wanting to check on his chocobo and Dajh.
Kori was now dancing with Hildough who had been rejected by a very surprised Lightning a half an hour before. She had politely declined his invitation by saying that, as Hope's guard, she couldn't leave his side. Although noticeably disappointed, the man had accepted and left her with an open invitation to dance later, should she have the chance. She had noticed Hope's rigidity during the exchange and her lips twitched upwards at the fact that she'd made him jealous this time, rather than the other way around.
Cass seemed to have disappeared from her sight at some point, but this wasn't her prime concern at the time. No, her main concern was the approaching lieutenant that had her eyes on Hope. Given the two's history and the fact that Nivien looked particularly stunning, Lightning didn't like this one bit. Her gown was very well fitted for her figure in a shade of red that complimented her ebony skin almost perfectly. The sweetheart neckline and black beads that lined the top of her bosom and curved from her cleavage down to her left hip only completed the dress's beauty.
Nivien smiled lightly at the two as she stopped before them. "Hello, Hope... Lightning."
"Nivien, it's good to see you," replied Hope, a little reluctant to engage in conversation with Lightning in such close proximity. "How have you been?"
She sighed, obviously not fairing well. But her strong front was up, as always. "Holding up. A-And you?"
"All right, I guess."
Nivien bit her lip, glancing at Lightning in her periphery. There was so much she wanted to speak with him about, needed to speak with him about, but she wanted to talk to him alone. Like old times. Before things got complicated... "I was wondering if we could dance." He looked ready to decline before she continued. "For old time's sake? Please?"
It would have been a no. It should have been a no. After all, he was with Lightning. Anyone knows that dancing with your ex, especially in front of your girlfriend, is trouble. Especially since Lightning already declined her own dance invitation. But he didn't feel for Nivien in that way anymore and he'd already expressed this to both women several times. And with Olly gone... Hope could see that the soldier before him was ready to fall apart at the seams. She needed a true friend that would listen, as she said, like old times. They were friends first and would continue to be even after their rough break-up. Lightning can understand this... right? His gaze met hers as he silently asked permission.
Lightning was shocked, having not expected him to accept. She could only nod,not knowing how else to respond. As the two walked to the floor together, the roseate stepped back to watch from beside one of the outside pillars, a glare burning into Nivien's form.
Hope's hand rested on Nivien's hip as her's rested on his shoulder, their other hands lacing together as they began to dance to whatever song the orchestra started playing. The silveret's thoughts were solely on Lightning and her reaction to this situation until Nivien spoke.
"I heard about the attack." This drew Hope's distracted gaze to her as she smiled at him, concern evident in her expression. "Are you sure you're okay?"
"I'm fine, really. Shaken up, but... What about you? I know you're doing worse than you let on." Cocking his head to the side, Hope tried to see her face as she ducked her head down, her wavy side bangs hiding her eyes from his prying gaze. Nivien and Olly were extremely close and with their parents in a crystallized Cocoon, all they had were each other. "I'm actually surprised you're even speaking to me and don't hate my guts. It was my faul-"
"Don't you dare say that."
Her quiet yet sharp words startled Hope for a moment as they locked gazes. "But it's-"
"No, it's not. None of this is your fault." She looked away then, watching the other couples dancing beside them. "At first... I did blame you... a little. But I know it's not. Just like it isn't your fault that Cocoon fell. I just... really miss him." Sniffing, Nivien blinked away the coming tears and turned her attention back to her partner. "I miss this too." She paused as Hope dipped her and brought her back up. "We always danced really well together..."
Biting his lip, Hope found himself unable to meet her eyes. "We did."
It was obvious to her that Hope was hesitant to reminisce, but she couldn't help it. She had felt so strongly for him for so long and to be so close to him like this now... It was amazing how right it felt to be with him. Her arms slid around his shoulders as she drew herself against him. Seemingly reluctant arms soon found their way around her waist while she rested her head on his shoulder. "I never expected to fall in love with you. When we met, I thought little of you, I admit. I just thought of you as the director's son. Nothing more. But then I got to know the incredible person that you were... are. Intelligent, sweet, strong, determined, and completely irresistible. Truly beautiful, inside and out. And I love how we were together."
He had to resist a shudder as he felt her body pressed against his and her hot breath brushing against his neck, memories of many similar situations flooding his mind. "Nivien, I-"
"I'm sorry. I know you've moved on." Her vision locked onto Lightning's rigid figure, noticing Cass now beside her, before looking back up into Hope's conflicted emerald irises. "This really isn't fair of me."
"Nivien, let me speak," Hope requested gently. "I never expected it either. To care for you as much as I did, I mean. I don't know if it was love, but it was pretty damn close to it if it wasn't. After all that l'Cie stuff, and falling for Light... I never imagined ever feeling for anyone else romantically. You completely blindsided me." He allowed a small smile to show as he looked down at her. "You helped me in so many ways, through things no one else could. You helped me grow as a person. You were an amazing girlfriend and I couldn't have expected anything more from you then what you gave me. I just..."
A bemused smile crossed Nivien's face as she smacked his shoulder lightly. "Is this your version of 'it's not you, it's me'?"
Hope chuckled softly. "Sure."
Lightning's fists clenched as she watched them. It was infuriating. She had never felt so self-conscious in her life. Well, not since boot camp. Hope and Nivien just seemed to fit together so perfectly, like puzzle pieces perfectly tailored to fit each other. They danced so smoothly together, practically gliding across the floor in their movements.
"Careful, Lightning, your jealousy is showing." Cass could only laugh as she seemed to bare her teeth at him. "Retract the claws, kitten. Nivien is a good person. She respects relationships. And Hope would never do anything to jeopardize his future with you. You can calm down."
Releasing a deep sigh, the eldest Farron visibly relaxed, only to tense up a second later. "You better get that hand off my backside before I put you in your place."
"In your bed?"
"In your grave," growled Lightning.
"All right, all right." The brunet drew his hands up in a surrender. "I don't feel like getting mauled today."
"Speaking of..." It had still been bothering her since she'd visited. The state of his apartment and his appearance. There was something very wrong about it. "Yesterday, I don't buy that party bull shit. So... was it your father?"
"You give my father's rage far too much credit," responded Cass with a laugh. "Doesn't matter what you buy, it was just a damn good party. Unlike this one."
Lightning's brow furrowed as she crossed her arms and jutted out a hip. "A party that involves taking an ax to the walls?"
Shrugging, the man could only chuckle, an unidentifiable gleam in his eyes. "Some people have got some weird kinks."
"Right" replied Lightning skeptically. Both of them watched the floor as many danced, a silence falling briefly over them as they listened to the music and chatter around them. Kori and Hildough broke apart as he bowed and she curtsied, drawing a tsk of amusement from Lightning. What era are we in?
Cass snorted. "I take it you're not too fond of my sister?"
"I'm surprised you two are so close. With what happened with your dad and all." She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye before continuing to watch Hope.
This caused him to shift uncomfortably, not expecting the topic in the least. "I quit holding my misfortune against Kori a long time ago. It's not her fault she was born first. That she was the child of his wife and I his mistress. It's not her fault that she was born from love and I from lust."
The teen's sincerity and seriousness caught her off guard, but was very refreshing. She hummed a confirmation that she was listening and encouraged him to continue. "So the only ill will you hold is toward your father."
"In this instance, yes. The difference between my mother and my father is, to my father, I was his shame, his embarrassment. To my mother, I was her pride, her triumph, her gift..." Before he could reveal anything more, Cass ducked out and left her side, escaping into the crowd.
After the third song that they had danced to came to an end, Hope began to pull away, causing Nivien to protest. "Just one more song, Hope?"
"I'm sorry, Nivien, but no. This was nice and I'm glad we could talk. I hope we still can in the future."
She nodded slowly in return as he walked away.
Hope and Lightning's gazes met before she turned to leave out of one of the side doors that led out to the gardens. The young director sighed before following her out. He found her in front of a few azalea bushes, her shoulders stiff, expression reserved. It appeared as though she was waiting for him to speak, so speak he did. "I would have preferred to dance with you. You know that, right?"
A snort was given before she turned away from him. "I don't know, you two looked pretty cozy to me."
Walking over to the rigid sergeant, Hope turned her around by her forearms. How can I make this clear to you? "And here I thought I was still the same open book. I care about Nivien. Of course I do, but not even close to as much as I care about you." Pulling away from him, her gaze flickered across the bushes and flowers surrounding them. "Friends dance too, Light."
"Not like that," she snarked with a scoff.
"Don't you trust me?"
The exasperation in his tone gave her pause, if only for a moment. "I damn sure don't trust her."
Swiftly, Hope cupped her cheek and gave her a brief, yet lingering kiss. He would have liked for it to be longer or deeper, but he wanted to respect her wishes and not be seen. "Believe me when I say that Nivien and I are over. Yes, we have history, but that's just it – history. My future, for as long as you'll allow, lies with you."
The ride home was quiet. Zalera had stayed behind for reasons she hadn't felt like sharing, leaving the two alone. Lightning seemed significantly more calm and reassured. This eased Hope's nerves, but she still hadn't said anything since their conversation in the garden. Anxiety built within him again as he glanced at her for what had to be the billionth time.
The tension in the car was so thick that even Dornum could sense it. So, he thought he could ease it a bit as he pulled into the young Estheim's driveway. "If you could spare a minute, Miss Lightning, I would like to speak with you for a moment.
Lightning's brow furrowed as she turned her confused gaze to Hope, who only scratched the back of his head and shrugged. He got out of the car and spoke before shutting the door. "I'll stay in sight, next to the door guards. I'll be fine."
Dornum turned around in his seat to look at her when Hope was out of earshot. "May I inquire as to what this disagreement is about?"
The soldier shook her head at the man. Were they really that obvious? Hope had eased some of her worries, but she was beginning to think that her insecurities with Nivien would never fade. It was too complicated and they only just started dating. "There's no disagreement."
A knowing smile and a chuckle was given as the old man looked at her. "I imagine you're not one with many relationships under your belt, correct? You keep to yourself and work mostly, am I right?"
Lightning's head bowed as she couldn't help but find the topic embarrassing and odd to be having with Hope's driver, who appeared to be sweet, but very nosy.
"It's nothing to be ashamed of, I ended up marrying my first girlfriend. We met and started dating when I was twenty three. We had thirty-one years of a blissful marriage, until the fall, of course."
Guilt settled into her stomach at his brief summary. There were so many people that had been left behind in the fall. "I'm sorry."
He held up a hand. "No need. All I'm saying is that you shouldn't let your inexperience get in the way of what's blooming between you and Master Estheim. He's a fine young man and he'll do right by you, I can assure you of that. If this is about Miss Nivien, well... all I can say is that just from between watching him in my backseat with her and with you... I never saw him look at her the way he looks at you." Amusement crinkled the corners of his eyes as he chuckled. "And the way he used to talk about you when he was younger..." He shook his head before turning around and starting the car back up, signaling the end of the conversation. "He cares deeply for you, Miss Lightning, and with all that I've had to see him suffer through, it would be nice if he had something good in his life. And you would be something far more than good for him."
Throat tight, Lightning nodded and smiled at the man. "Thank you."
Hope and Lightning entered the house together, once again shrouded in silence. He had really hoped that this night would have turned out differently, but he pushed away those thoughts and went to say goodnight, only to be completely shocked when a pair of lips crashed into his, roughly kissing him with fervor.
"You're mine, Estheim. Don't forget that, I don't want to see you in another woman's arms again."
Beaming at the surprising show of affection, Hope kissed her back with equal passion. "Do I detect a bit of jealousy? But I thought thee Lightning Farron doesn't get jealous."
Smirking, Lightning undid his tie and pulled it off, kissing his neck lightly. "Shut it."
The younger grinned and captured her lips as he brought her closer, only to release her quickly when an idea struck him. Putting on his puppy dog eyes, Hope looked down at the beauty before him. "You know, I was really looking forward to dancing with you?"
"Were you," Lightning laughed, "Hoping to show me your moves? From what I saw, you weren't too shabby. Your footwork could have been better, but all in all okay."
His eyes widened. "I didn't know I was being critiqued. Well, damn." He laughed for a moment, running a hand down her side. "So I suppose you know how to dance then?"
"I used to be in dance. From when I was eight until I was fourteen." Not that I'm proud of it.
"That's cool, Light. No wonder you're so graceful." Hope smiled sheepishly at her quirked brow.
She could see in his eyes how much he wanted to spend time with her, to dance with her. And I couldn't do it at the soiree because I'm a coward. Do you really want to be with such a coward, Hope? "Well, are we gonna dance or what?"
Practically bouncing, Hope seized her hand and brought her upstairs and into the library area which was actually the most spacious room in the house. The curtains to the giant window were open, letting the moonlight shine in. Grabbing up the remote, Hope turned on the stereo in the corner, quickly choosing a song before joining Lightning in the middle of the room.
"Hmm, it's almost like you planned this."
"Maybe," said Hope with a bright smile.
His giddiness caused her to laugh and relax just as the song started.
There's one way out and no way in
Back to the beginning
There's one way back to home again
To where I feel forgiven
They stared directly into each others eyes as they danced, both completely in sync with the others movements. It was as if they were completely connected, body and soul. Their hearts beat as one while they gracefully danced together in the moonlight.
What is this I feel? Why is it so real?
What am I to say?
Hope felt all of his troubles and worries melt away in that moment with Lightning. For that period in time, it was just him and her, alone. Her breathtaking smile that was still present on her features was for him. And that excited him to no end.
It's only love, it's only pain
It's only fear that runs through my veins
It's all the things you can't explain
That make us human
While twirling around his finger, Lightning felt her mind flitting out of her control. One moment it would focus on the beautiful lyrics filling the room, the notes surrounding her. The next she was focusing on the hot and electrifying touches of Hope's hands as one rested securely in her's as the other was at the small of her back. The next she focused on Hope's gentle and loving expression that melted her from the inside out. It all was a tad much and was bound to make her dizzy soon.
I am just an image of
Something so much greater
I am just a picture frame
I am not the painter
Castea did not exist. The l'Cie war did not exist. The 'new world' threat did not exist. The world itself did not exist. All that existed was them as they danced together, entranced in each others naturally intoxicating aura.
Where do I begin? Can I shed this skin?
What is this I feel within?
It was times like this where Hope and Lightning realized that they felt completely bound to one another. Hope's love for the roseate was never-ending, this he knew. As for Lightning, she found herself feeling so much more than she thought she was ever capable of. It completely astounded her that she could feel so much for someone that wasn't her own blood. Before the fall, Lightning would have denied the possibility of such a thing ever happening. Yet it did.
It's only love, it's only pain
It's only fear that runs through my veins
It's all the things you can't explain
That make us human, that make us human
That make us human
Though they had gone on a perilous journey, faced countless monsters and blood-thirsty villains, and held tremendous power that they had once thought to only be myth, they were just two people tied together. Two people with insurmountable strength of will and heart. Two humans that overcame everything in their path by finding strength in each other.
It's only love, it's only pain
It's only fear that runs through my veins
It's all the things you can't explain
That make us human, that make us human
That make us human, oh, that make us human
The song ended and they danced to a stop. They didn't break apart, however, they just stayed still, clinging to the others body and staring deeply into the others eyes.
"You're so beautiful." Hope couldn't stop the words from escaping his mouth. He meant them, for she truly was beautiful, in every definition of the word.
The soldier snorted as she released her hold on the man, a skeptical brow raising. "Really, Estheim, what do you take me for? Has it really been that easy for you to get into a girl's pants, Hope?"
Shock and embarrassment registered on the youth's face for a moment. That was so not what I was getting at. "I wasn't trying to- I was just complimenting you, Light," stuttered the teen. "What do I strike you as? Some sort of ladies' man?"
Lightning snickered and began ticking off all of Hope's possible conquests. "Um, Nivien... obviously. Kori... possibly. Alyssa... most likely-"
"I am not a man whore," he snapped defensively. Obviously offended, the young man huffed, his cheeks puffing out indignantly. "I don't sleep with women just because they may be enamored with me. Do you really think I would take advantage of someone like that?" An exasperated sigh fell through the air before he, apprehensively, continued. "For your information, I haven't slept with any of them, thank you."
She couldn't keep the pure stun from her face. "Not even Nivien?"
"No..."
"Hope? Look at me. I want to be with you, Hope," spoke Nivien softly, her hand gently caressing his jaw as they sat close to one another, heavy breath mixing together.
Hope's uneasiness and reluctance was easy to notice. "I... I gotta go."
"...not even Nivien."
"You act like you regret that."
A smile, sad but reassuring, came to his expression as his hand found her cheek once more. "It's not regret, just... guilt. For stringing Nivien along and for... trying to move on.. from my feelings for you."
She could see just how much this guilt weighed down on him. It appeared that he would never forgive himself, even though Lightning didn't care about his past with Nivien. Not anymore. Hope was with her now. That was all that mattered. That's what led her to clutching his collar tightly and pulling him into a deep kiss. Their lips, warm and loving, met as did their tongues, dancing together and struggling for dominance.
The director could not form words to describe the kiss. It was something that he could only compare to his wildest dreams of the eldest Farron. Something he would spend the whole night thinking about before finally drifting off to sleep.
In the morning while Hope was in a meeting with Zalera at his side, Lightning went to visit Serah. She hadn't done so in a while and she figured that it was about time to check up on her little sister. Encased in crystal or not, it was her duty to protect Serah.
The soldier entered the room and turned around to shut the door completely, making certain that it was sealed. Before she even turned back around, Lightning could already tell that something was amiss. Whipping out her gunblade, Lightning spun to face the new occupant of the room, her gaze immediately hardening as she recognized who the intruder was from others' descriptions.
"Hello, dear," cooed Castea. The woman was standing at Serah's side, an unwelcome hand resting on her crystal.
Not one to miss opportunities, especially ones as irresistible as this, Lightning immediately fired a barrage of rounds at the l'Cie scum before her.
Unconcerned, Castea did nothing. She didn't have to. Her protection spell kept her secure as every harmful projectile seemed to disintegrate at the invisible shell around her. "Oh, honey, you think your bullets can harm me?"
Immediately, Lightning flicked her blade out, but before she could move forward, she was stopped. She was frozen in place, completely unable to move.
"Aren't you just darling?" A chuckle fell from cold and unkind lips. "It's nice to finally meet the guardian and her pretty sister." The woman petted the crystal, taunting the subdued soldier.
Get the hell away from her, you bitch. I can't wait to tear you apart limb from limb. I just have to move, dammit! The sergeant attempted to speak, but she was even incapable of that. Sweat began to drip down her brow as she put all her strength into trying to move. A dizziness swept over her mind, and she soon found it hard to focus on her target.
With a wolfish grin, the woman began to move closer, each step infuriating Lightning further. "You're fighting it. Good, you act like the protector you claim to be."
Blood began to drip from her nose as she strove to move, to speak, to do something. She had to do something. The woman that had harmed Hope so severely and oh so simply snatched him away was right before her, now, not so subtly threatening her and her sister. There was no way that she could stand to take that.
Castea began to circle the mentally struggling girl, a sneer on her features. "Hope's been ignoring my prodding, but I think this might be the one thing that throws him in my direction."
I won't let you use me to get to Hope. I won't!
"I heard you've been asking about our time together," hissed Castea into her ear, mocking Lightning with her proximity. "Are you sure you want to know? Because I can grant that wish."
Only a moment was given before she felt bony and pale fingers on her forehead. Images upon images of torture cascaded into her helpless mind before darkness consumed her, taking her away from the truth and reality of Hope's time in the ark.