There's a vulture on my shoulder
It's plotting my defeat
Euphoric, hollow rapture
I'm drowning in deceit
--- Dark Raion
Chapter 6
"Are you alright?" Selphie asked, glancing over at her new roommate.
"I'm fine, Selphie," Rinoa replied, sighing slightly. Selphie was her best friend, and she loved her to death, but sometimes she could be awfully annoying.
It had only been a day since Rinoa's strange visit to the docks. Since then, she'd been invited to move into Selphie's apartment while the police continued their investigation. So far, things had been going well, even though Rinoa found herself in a dark mood which contrasted violently with Selphie's constant cheerfulness.
The two sat in the living room, gazing at the television screen while they talked over meaningless gossip. A stern faced man mouthed words on the muted TV screen, telling about the latest news around the globe. Neither had been paying much attention to it, until a familiar face suddenly apeared on the monitor, giving Rinoa goosebumps. She quickly reached for the remote and unmuted it.
"This pshyciatric patient and mass murderer, Seifer Almasy, escaped from Angel Haven, the mental asylum he was sent to after being found criminally insane. There is no word as of yet on how he managed to escape. It's a very mysterious case, it seems. He has yet to be found. If you have seen this man, it is imperative that you inform the authorities immediately. This man is very dangerous."
Selphie made a face. "Creepy isn't it?"
(You have no idea) Rinoa thought as she stared blankly at the floor.
"Rinoa? Are you sure you're okay?" Selphie asked her again.
"Yes, I'm fine. I was just thinking how worried those people must be."
"What people?"
Rinoa thought carefully for a moment. "The people that work at the mental asylum. They probably feel responsible."
"Yeah, you're right," Selphie replied thoughtfully. "But let's not let that get us down. Do you know what's tomorrow night?"
Rinoa sighed, fearing what was to come next, and said, "No, Selphie, I don't."
"Did you even get my message before? You know, about the dance?"
"Yes, I got it. But I really don't think I feel like going."
"Come on, Rinoa! I know this whole murder thing has got you down, but this should cheer you up! And anyway, he's going to be there."
"Who?" Rinoa asked.
"Squall."
"Why should I care if he's there?" she replied nochalantly. "And how do you know he'll be there?"
Selphie laughed. "Please! Your eyes light up every time you even think you see him. You even say his name in your sleep!"
"How do you know?"
Selphie's cheerful laugh was accompanied by a slight blush. "Let's just say that you're very loud when you dream about him. I can even hear it in my room. Must be some really nice dreams."
Rinoa blushed, but smiled all the same. "Yes, they are. But they're not all like that. In my dreams he's very sweet, and loving. Nothing like the way he treats me in real life. I guess I'm just a hopeless fool."
Selphie shook her head. "No. I bet he's exactly that way underneath it all. People are like roses. They have to bloom before you can see their inside."
"That was very... perceptive, Selph."
"I know. Wouldn't expect it from me, would you? Anyway, he is going to be there. I think he's got some kind of important meeting that he has to attend there. So come on. Let's go get you a dress that'll knock him dead."
Rinoa smiled slightly as she thought of the two of them dancing gracefully across the dance floor, the center of attention.
"If you insist," Rinoa answered.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Rinoa glanced in the mirror again, smiling radiantly at herself. She wore a long, dark red, off the shoulder dress that had slits up the side of both of her legs, and was low-cut, showing off a tasteful amount of cleavage.
She turned around to see Selphie, who was getting some minor adjustments on her strapless, medium-length, forest green dress.
"How do I look?" Rinoa asked her.
"Amazing!" she exclaimed. "His jaws gonna drop to the floor when he sees you!"
"Who's jaw?" came a voice from behind Rinoa. She turned around to see Quistis smiling at the two girls as she stood in a gold, backless dress with a thin silk wrap draped over her arms.
"Squall Leonhart's," Selphie replied innocently.
Rinoa cringed in embarresment. Why not just hang a banner over the top of the bookstore?
"Don't worry, Rinoa," Quistis said reassuringly, noticing Rinoa's reaction. "I won't tell anyone. Not even him."
"Thanks," she replied.
"I must say, you have good taste in men. But then again, I think he's universally handsome. All the girls in town will be using this dance as an oppurtunity to catch his attention. Except for me, of course. And those that are too old, or married."
"Why not you?" Rinoa asked.
"I've had a crush on him for as long as I can remember, but he never returned the feeling. After awhile, I just gave up, and decided that it was simply a lost cause. It seems that way for everyone."
"Oh," Rinoa said, an edge of dissapointment creeping into her voice.
"But, then again, there is only one right soul mate for a person. Who knows? Maybe you'll be his? But you'll never know unless you try to reach him."
Rinoa smiled. "Thanks Quistis. I'm sure you'll find somebody, too."
Quistis smiled back then headed back to her dressing room. "Thanks, Rinoa. I'll see you two girls tomorrow night."
After they had finished picking out their dresses and getting them adjusted to better fit them, they returned home to get some sleep so they could get up early and buy some shoes and accesories before getting ready.
Rinoa had to sleep on the couch, since Selphie's apartment only had one bedroom. So, after brushing her teeth and putting on her nightgown, she layed down on the couch and watched old, muted re-runs of long since canceled shows.
She was just nodding off to sleep when she felt a strong hand on her shoulder. She looked up and was met with a pair of blue and silverish eyes.
"Squall?" she asked grogily.
He nodded and kneeled down close to her, so that they were face to face.
"What are you doing here?" she asked in a whisper. "How did you get in?"
"The window. I thought you were asleep."
She shook her head. "No. Why?"
He stroked the side of her face with his hand. "I just wanted to see you and make sure you were doing okay."
"Then why didn't you come by earlier?" she asked, laughingly.
"I didn't want you to know that I cared," he answered. "But I do. I love you."
"But you barely know me," she replied.
"I've always known you," he said, giving her a soft kiss on her lips and wrapping his warm arms around her. "I just don't remember."
"Then how do you know that you really know me?"
"I could never fully forget you," he whispered back. "Go to the window."
"What?" she asked, breaking away from him slightly.
"Go to the window."
Rinoa's eyes snapped open, and once again she found herself alone. Of course she would. Didn't she always? But just out of curiosity, she went to the window, even as she was laughing at her own foolishness.
Slowly she parted the curtains and gazed outside, expecting to find only the empty street below her. Instead, she saw a young, golden-haired woman in an old-fashioned dress of a soft floral pattern. Her hair was wrapped up in a tight bun, and she walked straight, and steadily forward. But that wasn't the worst thing about the scene below. Yet again, the buildings had changed. They now had the same Victorian styles as the time before.
"Rinoa? What is it?" Selphie asked, as she looked around Rinoa and out the window.
"Do you see her?" Rinoa asked suddenly.
Selphie gave her an odd look. "Who? Rinoa, are you absolutely sure you're alright?"
She nodded slowly. "Yeah, I'm fine. I just need some air. I think I'll go for a walk."
"If you really think that's a good idea," Selphie said. She was beginning to get very worried about her friend.
Rinoa quickly threw on her clothes and ran down stairs, deciding to go in the same direction as the woman she saw. The more she thought about it, the more she realized that it looked like Quistis, and she was heading for her apartment complex.
When Rinoa reached the street, it was empty, and everything appeared normal. But she decided to head to the apartment building anyway.
The lights in the lobby were off, even though it was still somewhat early, and the thick glass doors that led inside remained unlocked. She slowly pushed the door open and looked inside. She couldn't see through the darkness but an almost metallic scent lingered in her nostrils that could only be one thing. She cautiously snuck across the polished tile floor until she was in front of the desk. She wanted to throw up. There lay Quistis, sprawled out over the desk in a tattered heap, like all the corpses before her.
Rinoa turned away and ran, a million thoughts running through her head. She never really knew Quistis that well, but she had been very nice to her. And it was Seifer's work, she knew it. The report on TV earlier just proved her suspicions. No doubt, he would come after her. She was the one who turned him in, after all.
Before she knew it, she was back at Selphie apartment door, letting herself in.
"Rinoa, what happened?!" Selphie asked worriedly, after observing the state of her best friend.
"Lock the doors," Rinoa choked out through her tears. She knew well that doors wouldn't stop him, but it would make her feel just a mite bit better.
"But, Rinoa-" Selphie began, but was interrupted when Rinoa suddenly ran to the bathroom and fell to her knees in front of the toilet. A soft sigh escaped Selphie's lips as she walked into the bathroom behind her and pulled her hair back out of her face.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
When Rinoa awoke the next morning, the first thing she saw was an unfamiliar ceiling. She took a few moments to glance around the room before realizing it was Selphie's. Just as she was about to get up from the bed, Selphie opened the door and walked inside.
"I see you're up," she said quietly. Rinoa could immediately tell that something was wrong. Whenever Selphie wasn't cheerful, there was some major problem bothering her. "I let you sleep in here last night, by the way, since you were sick."
"Selphie, I'm not sick," Rinoa corrected. "I just had a bad night, was all."
"If you say so," Selphie replied uneasily. "I'm afraid I just got wind of some bad news, though."
"What?"
"Quistis.... she's dead," Selphie announced flatly, even as her eyes glittered with tears.
"I know," was all Rinoa had to say. Selphie looked up at her with a wild mix of fear and confusion in her eyes.
"You... how? Did you...?"
"No, Selphie. I just know.... do you trust me?"
Selphie thought seriously for a moment before answering, "Yes. I do."
Rinoa smiled then said, "Is the dance still on?"
Selphie nodded. "They wouldn't cancel the dance for anything."
"Are you still up for going?"
"Yeah. I didn't know Quistis that well. But it still pains me to hear about all this."
"I know what you mean," Rinoa replied. "Well, if we're still going to go, we need to go pick up our dresses and shoes."
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
The dance was being held at a beautiful two story mansion north of the circle. It was made of white stone with Greek columns along the outside, a large balcony on the second story, and a dome-shaped roof.
Through the set of thick, arched, white-painted oak double doors, was the ball room where the dance was to be held. High heels clicked loudly as they crossed the shining marble floor, some tapping out a rythm that was well entwined with the music, which floated through the air like a fine perfume.
The room itself was circular, and had a beautifully polished stair case which led upstairs. The house seemed to be centered entirely around the circular ball room, as the above floor was also circular, and covering only the edge of the ball room, so that the glass dome was completely visible from below.
Shimmering gold pillars held up the over-hanging floor above, and a gigantic crystal chandalier hung down from the center of the dome, filling it with golden light. People of all kinds stood around the dance floor, that is if they weren't dancing.
As Rinoa and Selphie entered, Selphie spotted one of her good friends and ran off to greet her, leaving Rinoa to stand near a pillar, as her eyes scanned over the dance floor. While she stood there, feeling akward, the sound of a low, devious beat reached her ears, originating from the orchestra pit. That's when her eyes suddenly met with his, her warm, chocolate brown colliding with his icy, ethreal blue.
The atmosphere was electric, yet fragile all the same. The slightest breath could shatter the moment which had crept upon them. The slightest offending glint in the other's eye could make the other turn away. Rinoa wasn't sure how long they stayed like that, reveling in the intensity of their gaze, but it seemed like an eternity before he slowly, cautiously began to approach her, as if he were a lion stalking his prey.
Her heart was pounding in her chest, the rythm ringing in her ears in time with the music, as if her very life were dependant upon this song that was beginning to play. He came to stand before her, his eyes never leaving hers, and offered a hand to her.
He didn't have to speak. Speaking would have ruined everything, and she knew it. So, without so much as a word, she took his hand and allowed him to lead her onto the dance floor.
Chills ran up her spine, and her skin tingled as he placed his hands on her narrow waist. The material of her dress was soft, and thin, so that she could feel the heat of his hands warming her delicate skin.
The bitter-sweet, hypnotic melody of the violins began, entwining itself with the original beat and grazing something deep within Rinoa. She felt a tightness swell in her chest as he spun her away from him, and drew her back in. She was afraid to even breath. If she did, this glorious moment of their's might dissapear, and she would find herself alone, as she had so many times before.
Her cheeks were red and flushed, as if the dance were taking a lot out of her. His hands were so gentle, yet close enough to spread their fire over her as they began to do a dance all their own, bringing their bodies closer.
His breath was hot against her cheek as he swayed to an unheard rythm with her. She swallowed hard trying to supress this growing feeling inside her, and wondered if he could feel her goosebumps. He then turned her around slowly, still close to his own body, and brought her against him again, with her back to his chest. He wrapped his arms around her, so that those blessed hands of his were resting over her stomach, and his head was somewhat resting against her own, his lips slightly grazing against the junction of her neck and shoulder, and his silky hair brushing against her cheek. She was falling into a euphoric trance.
It seemed that just as soon as the song began, it ended, bringing Squall to a sudden awareness of his surroundings. He placed a light kiss on her exposed shoulder, then slowly began to back away from her.
"I have to go," he muttered, as he headed for the door.
She looked after him for a moment, still lost in a blissful daze. After a moment or so, she snapped back to reality, and started to walk after him.
Rinoa finally caught up with Squall outside the mansion.
"Squall, wait!" she called, running after him.
He didn't stop. He knew he would only grow weaker if he did.
"Please, Squall! I just want to talk to you!"
When that got no response from him, she finally called out, "I know who killed your sister!"
He did stop then, and waited until she was directly behind him before he turned around and said, "I know who killed my sister."
She gazed up at him in confusion, but her silent question went unanswered as he turned his back on her once more.
"Squall," she said in a quiet, tremulous voice.
He turned back to her, and studied her for a moment before silently taking her hand and walking off with her. When they reached her apartment building, he said, "This is where you live, isn't it?"
She shook her head, "Not anymore. I've been staying with my friend Selphie since the police still have to investigate my apartment. But she's not home yet..." her voice trailed off as fear began to make its way into her voice. She didn't want to be alone tonight.
Somehow, he must have sensed this, because, without another word, he put an arm around her back and led her up to his apartment.
"You can stay here tonight, if you want," he said.
"If it's no trouble for you," she said shyly.
"It's fine," he replied.
He studied her for a moment, leaning against the wall outside his bedroom, and crossed the small space that was seperating the two. He wanted so badly to have something that he just couldn't have. But, no one was there to see. No one would know, if just that once....
Squall's train of thoughts tailed off as he closed his eyes and leaned in to kiss her. Her lips were so soft, so warm and inviting. He found himself wrapping his arms around her, holding her closer. She tangled her hands in his hair and ran her tongue along his bottom lip. She'd been dreaming of this since the first day she saw him.
Their kissing grew more passionate as they stumbled through the door of his bed room. He couldn't control it anymore. He needed her, just like he always had. He slowly lowered her down onto the bed, and began to kiss down her neck, and over her shoulder as he ran his hand up her leg.
(You can't do this) a voice hissed within his mind. That was all it took to jolt him out of his sudden frenzy.
"I can't do this," he said, sitting up.
"Is there something wrong with me?" she asked in a small voice. Her memories of his rejection were still alive in her mind.
"There's nothing wrong with you," he said gently. "I just.... tonight's not good."
"Oh. Well, I guess I better leave then."
"No. You can stay here."
"If I'm bothering you-"
"I want you to stay," he blurted out.
She smiled slightly, "Okay. I guess I will then."
He wrapped his arms around her and leaned his head against her shoulder before the two slowly layed back down on the bed.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Rinoa had a smile on her face when she woke up in the morning. She wasn't sure what happened with him the night before, but she was happy that he let her stay. When she awoke, however, she found herself alone.
She stood and looked around the unfamiliar room. It was mostly empty. It had only the bed, a dresser, and a desk. She was looking around, studying the place when she heard the shower go off. As she scanned over the desk, she noticed something glimmering against the dark wood of the desk. Upon further examination, she noticed it was a gold locket, with the name "Ellone" engraved on the front. Just like the one Ellone had worn in Rinoa's vision of her death. Had could Squall have gotten it, unless...? Come to think of it, he said he already knew who her killer was.
"Rinoa?"
Rinoa jumped at the sound of his voice behind her. She took a deep breath, knowing that she couldn't avoid this. She whirled around to face him, holding the chain up in her hand.
"It was you wasn't it?" she asked, her voice shaking.
He focused on the golden locket she held in her hand before saying, "I'm sorry that you think that."
Her eyes widened in fear at this response. "What are you going to do to me?"
He stepped closer to her until his face was just inches away from hers. He gazed into her eyes for a long moment before saying, "Leave this place Rinoa. Before it destroys you."
She narrowed her eyes at him. "What do you mean?"
"Just go, Rinoa. Leave this town behind and never look back."
She looked into his eyes for a moment, her own filled with tears, before throwing the locket back onto his desk and storming out of the room.
He walked over to his window and watched for a brief moment as she left the building, still wearing that lovely red dress. As he did, a vague memory flashed through his mind. One that had haunted him many times over in his sleep.
The heavy fragrance of wild flowers drifted on the warm night air, and floated on the gentle breeze. It was her fragrance. The wind was only borrowing it from her.
The moon had risen high over the field in all its silver glory, casting a celestial blue glow over the sky. The stars twinkled brightly, burning with an eternal fury that no light on the earth could ever hope to duplicate.
She stood in the center, an unearthly creature of unspeakable beauty, her skin glowing and eyes shining as if they were made of those very stars that dotted that canopy above her. Only that light of innocence and purity in her eyes could rival those stars.
She bent down and plucked a vibrantly colored red rose from the ground. She brought it to her nose and inhaled its soft, heavenly scent, taking it in as if it was to become part of her soul.
The lovely creature then turned her gaze to the glowing orb over her head, and began humming a song that only she could hear. She then began to spin around in endless circles, her dark hair cascading in waves of glimmering midnight as it reflected the beams of the moon. She twirled around, her rose still gripped tightly in her hand as she danced the dance of her soul to the rising creshendos in her mind. And when she was too dizzy to keep her footing, she felt to the ground in heap, her childish laughter ringing out over the fields, like a melody of the angels.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Rinoa stomped away from the book store in a flury. She wasn't sure if she was angry, upset, dissapointed, or what. Things were so strange between her and Squall. Did he want her? Did he have feelings for her? And on top of it all, did he really kill his sister? Was he the murderer responsible for the deaths of Lyra, Zell, and Quistis?
Rinoa was so wrapped up in her thoughts that she didn't notice the scuffling of feet behind her. It was still so early in the morning that she didn't expect anyone to be out. But then she heard it.
"Rinoa," a rough, ragged voice called from behind her.
She turned to find Seifer behind her, grinning sickly. She felt as if all the blood had been drained from her body. She was going to faint.
His grin widened. "Scared? Don't be. I just came to say goodbye, once and for all."
It was then that she noticed the blood dribbling from the corners of his mouth, even while he smiled.
"What....?" she was so shocked that she couldn't finish her sentence.
"What happened? I wasn't as strong as I thought I was. Watch your back Rinoa. You might be next."
With that he collapsed on the ground, revealing the large hole in his back, from which his heart had been scooped out.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
It's plotting my defeat
Euphoric, hollow rapture
I'm drowning in deceit
--- Dark Raion
Chapter 6
"Are you alright?" Selphie asked, glancing over at her new roommate.
"I'm fine, Selphie," Rinoa replied, sighing slightly. Selphie was her best friend, and she loved her to death, but sometimes she could be awfully annoying.
It had only been a day since Rinoa's strange visit to the docks. Since then, she'd been invited to move into Selphie's apartment while the police continued their investigation. So far, things had been going well, even though Rinoa found herself in a dark mood which contrasted violently with Selphie's constant cheerfulness.
The two sat in the living room, gazing at the television screen while they talked over meaningless gossip. A stern faced man mouthed words on the muted TV screen, telling about the latest news around the globe. Neither had been paying much attention to it, until a familiar face suddenly apeared on the monitor, giving Rinoa goosebumps. She quickly reached for the remote and unmuted it.
"This pshyciatric patient and mass murderer, Seifer Almasy, escaped from Angel Haven, the mental asylum he was sent to after being found criminally insane. There is no word as of yet on how he managed to escape. It's a very mysterious case, it seems. He has yet to be found. If you have seen this man, it is imperative that you inform the authorities immediately. This man is very dangerous."
Selphie made a face. "Creepy isn't it?"
(You have no idea) Rinoa thought as she stared blankly at the floor.
"Rinoa? Are you sure you're okay?" Selphie asked her again.
"Yes, I'm fine. I was just thinking how worried those people must be."
"What people?"
Rinoa thought carefully for a moment. "The people that work at the mental asylum. They probably feel responsible."
"Yeah, you're right," Selphie replied thoughtfully. "But let's not let that get us down. Do you know what's tomorrow night?"
Rinoa sighed, fearing what was to come next, and said, "No, Selphie, I don't."
"Did you even get my message before? You know, about the dance?"
"Yes, I got it. But I really don't think I feel like going."
"Come on, Rinoa! I know this whole murder thing has got you down, but this should cheer you up! And anyway, he's going to be there."
"Who?" Rinoa asked.
"Squall."
"Why should I care if he's there?" she replied nochalantly. "And how do you know he'll be there?"
Selphie laughed. "Please! Your eyes light up every time you even think you see him. You even say his name in your sleep!"
"How do you know?"
Selphie's cheerful laugh was accompanied by a slight blush. "Let's just say that you're very loud when you dream about him. I can even hear it in my room. Must be some really nice dreams."
Rinoa blushed, but smiled all the same. "Yes, they are. But they're not all like that. In my dreams he's very sweet, and loving. Nothing like the way he treats me in real life. I guess I'm just a hopeless fool."
Selphie shook her head. "No. I bet he's exactly that way underneath it all. People are like roses. They have to bloom before you can see their inside."
"That was very... perceptive, Selph."
"I know. Wouldn't expect it from me, would you? Anyway, he is going to be there. I think he's got some kind of important meeting that he has to attend there. So come on. Let's go get you a dress that'll knock him dead."
Rinoa smiled slightly as she thought of the two of them dancing gracefully across the dance floor, the center of attention.
"If you insist," Rinoa answered.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Rinoa glanced in the mirror again, smiling radiantly at herself. She wore a long, dark red, off the shoulder dress that had slits up the side of both of her legs, and was low-cut, showing off a tasteful amount of cleavage.
She turned around to see Selphie, who was getting some minor adjustments on her strapless, medium-length, forest green dress.
"How do I look?" Rinoa asked her.
"Amazing!" she exclaimed. "His jaws gonna drop to the floor when he sees you!"
"Who's jaw?" came a voice from behind Rinoa. She turned around to see Quistis smiling at the two girls as she stood in a gold, backless dress with a thin silk wrap draped over her arms.
"Squall Leonhart's," Selphie replied innocently.
Rinoa cringed in embarresment. Why not just hang a banner over the top of the bookstore?
"Don't worry, Rinoa," Quistis said reassuringly, noticing Rinoa's reaction. "I won't tell anyone. Not even him."
"Thanks," she replied.
"I must say, you have good taste in men. But then again, I think he's universally handsome. All the girls in town will be using this dance as an oppurtunity to catch his attention. Except for me, of course. And those that are too old, or married."
"Why not you?" Rinoa asked.
"I've had a crush on him for as long as I can remember, but he never returned the feeling. After awhile, I just gave up, and decided that it was simply a lost cause. It seems that way for everyone."
"Oh," Rinoa said, an edge of dissapointment creeping into her voice.
"But, then again, there is only one right soul mate for a person. Who knows? Maybe you'll be his? But you'll never know unless you try to reach him."
Rinoa smiled. "Thanks Quistis. I'm sure you'll find somebody, too."
Quistis smiled back then headed back to her dressing room. "Thanks, Rinoa. I'll see you two girls tomorrow night."
After they had finished picking out their dresses and getting them adjusted to better fit them, they returned home to get some sleep so they could get up early and buy some shoes and accesories before getting ready.
Rinoa had to sleep on the couch, since Selphie's apartment only had one bedroom. So, after brushing her teeth and putting on her nightgown, she layed down on the couch and watched old, muted re-runs of long since canceled shows.
She was just nodding off to sleep when she felt a strong hand on her shoulder. She looked up and was met with a pair of blue and silverish eyes.
"Squall?" she asked grogily.
He nodded and kneeled down close to her, so that they were face to face.
"What are you doing here?" she asked in a whisper. "How did you get in?"
"The window. I thought you were asleep."
She shook her head. "No. Why?"
He stroked the side of her face with his hand. "I just wanted to see you and make sure you were doing okay."
"Then why didn't you come by earlier?" she asked, laughingly.
"I didn't want you to know that I cared," he answered. "But I do. I love you."
"But you barely know me," she replied.
"I've always known you," he said, giving her a soft kiss on her lips and wrapping his warm arms around her. "I just don't remember."
"Then how do you know that you really know me?"
"I could never fully forget you," he whispered back. "Go to the window."
"What?" she asked, breaking away from him slightly.
"Go to the window."
Rinoa's eyes snapped open, and once again she found herself alone. Of course she would. Didn't she always? But just out of curiosity, she went to the window, even as she was laughing at her own foolishness.
Slowly she parted the curtains and gazed outside, expecting to find only the empty street below her. Instead, she saw a young, golden-haired woman in an old-fashioned dress of a soft floral pattern. Her hair was wrapped up in a tight bun, and she walked straight, and steadily forward. But that wasn't the worst thing about the scene below. Yet again, the buildings had changed. They now had the same Victorian styles as the time before.
"Rinoa? What is it?" Selphie asked, as she looked around Rinoa and out the window.
"Do you see her?" Rinoa asked suddenly.
Selphie gave her an odd look. "Who? Rinoa, are you absolutely sure you're alright?"
She nodded slowly. "Yeah, I'm fine. I just need some air. I think I'll go for a walk."
"If you really think that's a good idea," Selphie said. She was beginning to get very worried about her friend.
Rinoa quickly threw on her clothes and ran down stairs, deciding to go in the same direction as the woman she saw. The more she thought about it, the more she realized that it looked like Quistis, and she was heading for her apartment complex.
When Rinoa reached the street, it was empty, and everything appeared normal. But she decided to head to the apartment building anyway.
The lights in the lobby were off, even though it was still somewhat early, and the thick glass doors that led inside remained unlocked. She slowly pushed the door open and looked inside. She couldn't see through the darkness but an almost metallic scent lingered in her nostrils that could only be one thing. She cautiously snuck across the polished tile floor until she was in front of the desk. She wanted to throw up. There lay Quistis, sprawled out over the desk in a tattered heap, like all the corpses before her.
Rinoa turned away and ran, a million thoughts running through her head. She never really knew Quistis that well, but she had been very nice to her. And it was Seifer's work, she knew it. The report on TV earlier just proved her suspicions. No doubt, he would come after her. She was the one who turned him in, after all.
Before she knew it, she was back at Selphie apartment door, letting herself in.
"Rinoa, what happened?!" Selphie asked worriedly, after observing the state of her best friend.
"Lock the doors," Rinoa choked out through her tears. She knew well that doors wouldn't stop him, but it would make her feel just a mite bit better.
"But, Rinoa-" Selphie began, but was interrupted when Rinoa suddenly ran to the bathroom and fell to her knees in front of the toilet. A soft sigh escaped Selphie's lips as she walked into the bathroom behind her and pulled her hair back out of her face.
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When Rinoa awoke the next morning, the first thing she saw was an unfamiliar ceiling. She took a few moments to glance around the room before realizing it was Selphie's. Just as she was about to get up from the bed, Selphie opened the door and walked inside.
"I see you're up," she said quietly. Rinoa could immediately tell that something was wrong. Whenever Selphie wasn't cheerful, there was some major problem bothering her. "I let you sleep in here last night, by the way, since you were sick."
"Selphie, I'm not sick," Rinoa corrected. "I just had a bad night, was all."
"If you say so," Selphie replied uneasily. "I'm afraid I just got wind of some bad news, though."
"What?"
"Quistis.... she's dead," Selphie announced flatly, even as her eyes glittered with tears.
"I know," was all Rinoa had to say. Selphie looked up at her with a wild mix of fear and confusion in her eyes.
"You... how? Did you...?"
"No, Selphie. I just know.... do you trust me?"
Selphie thought seriously for a moment before answering, "Yes. I do."
Rinoa smiled then said, "Is the dance still on?"
Selphie nodded. "They wouldn't cancel the dance for anything."
"Are you still up for going?"
"Yeah. I didn't know Quistis that well. But it still pains me to hear about all this."
"I know what you mean," Rinoa replied. "Well, if we're still going to go, we need to go pick up our dresses and shoes."
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The dance was being held at a beautiful two story mansion north of the circle. It was made of white stone with Greek columns along the outside, a large balcony on the second story, and a dome-shaped roof.
Through the set of thick, arched, white-painted oak double doors, was the ball room where the dance was to be held. High heels clicked loudly as they crossed the shining marble floor, some tapping out a rythm that was well entwined with the music, which floated through the air like a fine perfume.
The room itself was circular, and had a beautifully polished stair case which led upstairs. The house seemed to be centered entirely around the circular ball room, as the above floor was also circular, and covering only the edge of the ball room, so that the glass dome was completely visible from below.
Shimmering gold pillars held up the over-hanging floor above, and a gigantic crystal chandalier hung down from the center of the dome, filling it with golden light. People of all kinds stood around the dance floor, that is if they weren't dancing.
As Rinoa and Selphie entered, Selphie spotted one of her good friends and ran off to greet her, leaving Rinoa to stand near a pillar, as her eyes scanned over the dance floor. While she stood there, feeling akward, the sound of a low, devious beat reached her ears, originating from the orchestra pit. That's when her eyes suddenly met with his, her warm, chocolate brown colliding with his icy, ethreal blue.
The atmosphere was electric, yet fragile all the same. The slightest breath could shatter the moment which had crept upon them. The slightest offending glint in the other's eye could make the other turn away. Rinoa wasn't sure how long they stayed like that, reveling in the intensity of their gaze, but it seemed like an eternity before he slowly, cautiously began to approach her, as if he were a lion stalking his prey.
Her heart was pounding in her chest, the rythm ringing in her ears in time with the music, as if her very life were dependant upon this song that was beginning to play. He came to stand before her, his eyes never leaving hers, and offered a hand to her.
He didn't have to speak. Speaking would have ruined everything, and she knew it. So, without so much as a word, she took his hand and allowed him to lead her onto the dance floor.
Chills ran up her spine, and her skin tingled as he placed his hands on her narrow waist. The material of her dress was soft, and thin, so that she could feel the heat of his hands warming her delicate skin.
The bitter-sweet, hypnotic melody of the violins began, entwining itself with the original beat and grazing something deep within Rinoa. She felt a tightness swell in her chest as he spun her away from him, and drew her back in. She was afraid to even breath. If she did, this glorious moment of their's might dissapear, and she would find herself alone, as she had so many times before.
Her cheeks were red and flushed, as if the dance were taking a lot out of her. His hands were so gentle, yet close enough to spread their fire over her as they began to do a dance all their own, bringing their bodies closer.
His breath was hot against her cheek as he swayed to an unheard rythm with her. She swallowed hard trying to supress this growing feeling inside her, and wondered if he could feel her goosebumps. He then turned her around slowly, still close to his own body, and brought her against him again, with her back to his chest. He wrapped his arms around her, so that those blessed hands of his were resting over her stomach, and his head was somewhat resting against her own, his lips slightly grazing against the junction of her neck and shoulder, and his silky hair brushing against her cheek. She was falling into a euphoric trance.
It seemed that just as soon as the song began, it ended, bringing Squall to a sudden awareness of his surroundings. He placed a light kiss on her exposed shoulder, then slowly began to back away from her.
"I have to go," he muttered, as he headed for the door.
She looked after him for a moment, still lost in a blissful daze. After a moment or so, she snapped back to reality, and started to walk after him.
Rinoa finally caught up with Squall outside the mansion.
"Squall, wait!" she called, running after him.
He didn't stop. He knew he would only grow weaker if he did.
"Please, Squall! I just want to talk to you!"
When that got no response from him, she finally called out, "I know who killed your sister!"
He did stop then, and waited until she was directly behind him before he turned around and said, "I know who killed my sister."
She gazed up at him in confusion, but her silent question went unanswered as he turned his back on her once more.
"Squall," she said in a quiet, tremulous voice.
He turned back to her, and studied her for a moment before silently taking her hand and walking off with her. When they reached her apartment building, he said, "This is where you live, isn't it?"
She shook her head, "Not anymore. I've been staying with my friend Selphie since the police still have to investigate my apartment. But she's not home yet..." her voice trailed off as fear began to make its way into her voice. She didn't want to be alone tonight.
Somehow, he must have sensed this, because, without another word, he put an arm around her back and led her up to his apartment.
"You can stay here tonight, if you want," he said.
"If it's no trouble for you," she said shyly.
"It's fine," he replied.
He studied her for a moment, leaning against the wall outside his bedroom, and crossed the small space that was seperating the two. He wanted so badly to have something that he just couldn't have. But, no one was there to see. No one would know, if just that once....
Squall's train of thoughts tailed off as he closed his eyes and leaned in to kiss her. Her lips were so soft, so warm and inviting. He found himself wrapping his arms around her, holding her closer. She tangled her hands in his hair and ran her tongue along his bottom lip. She'd been dreaming of this since the first day she saw him.
Their kissing grew more passionate as they stumbled through the door of his bed room. He couldn't control it anymore. He needed her, just like he always had. He slowly lowered her down onto the bed, and began to kiss down her neck, and over her shoulder as he ran his hand up her leg.
(You can't do this) a voice hissed within his mind. That was all it took to jolt him out of his sudden frenzy.
"I can't do this," he said, sitting up.
"Is there something wrong with me?" she asked in a small voice. Her memories of his rejection were still alive in her mind.
"There's nothing wrong with you," he said gently. "I just.... tonight's not good."
"Oh. Well, I guess I better leave then."
"No. You can stay here."
"If I'm bothering you-"
"I want you to stay," he blurted out.
She smiled slightly, "Okay. I guess I will then."
He wrapped his arms around her and leaned his head against her shoulder before the two slowly layed back down on the bed.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Rinoa had a smile on her face when she woke up in the morning. She wasn't sure what happened with him the night before, but she was happy that he let her stay. When she awoke, however, she found herself alone.
She stood and looked around the unfamiliar room. It was mostly empty. It had only the bed, a dresser, and a desk. She was looking around, studying the place when she heard the shower go off. As she scanned over the desk, she noticed something glimmering against the dark wood of the desk. Upon further examination, she noticed it was a gold locket, with the name "Ellone" engraved on the front. Just like the one Ellone had worn in Rinoa's vision of her death. Had could Squall have gotten it, unless...? Come to think of it, he said he already knew who her killer was.
"Rinoa?"
Rinoa jumped at the sound of his voice behind her. She took a deep breath, knowing that she couldn't avoid this. She whirled around to face him, holding the chain up in her hand.
"It was you wasn't it?" she asked, her voice shaking.
He focused on the golden locket she held in her hand before saying, "I'm sorry that you think that."
Her eyes widened in fear at this response. "What are you going to do to me?"
He stepped closer to her until his face was just inches away from hers. He gazed into her eyes for a long moment before saying, "Leave this place Rinoa. Before it destroys you."
She narrowed her eyes at him. "What do you mean?"
"Just go, Rinoa. Leave this town behind and never look back."
She looked into his eyes for a moment, her own filled with tears, before throwing the locket back onto his desk and storming out of the room.
He walked over to his window and watched for a brief moment as she left the building, still wearing that lovely red dress. As he did, a vague memory flashed through his mind. One that had haunted him many times over in his sleep.
The heavy fragrance of wild flowers drifted on the warm night air, and floated on the gentle breeze. It was her fragrance. The wind was only borrowing it from her.
The moon had risen high over the field in all its silver glory, casting a celestial blue glow over the sky. The stars twinkled brightly, burning with an eternal fury that no light on the earth could ever hope to duplicate.
She stood in the center, an unearthly creature of unspeakable beauty, her skin glowing and eyes shining as if they were made of those very stars that dotted that canopy above her. Only that light of innocence and purity in her eyes could rival those stars.
She bent down and plucked a vibrantly colored red rose from the ground. She brought it to her nose and inhaled its soft, heavenly scent, taking it in as if it was to become part of her soul.
The lovely creature then turned her gaze to the glowing orb over her head, and began humming a song that only she could hear. She then began to spin around in endless circles, her dark hair cascading in waves of glimmering midnight as it reflected the beams of the moon. She twirled around, her rose still gripped tightly in her hand as she danced the dance of her soul to the rising creshendos in her mind. And when she was too dizzy to keep her footing, she felt to the ground in heap, her childish laughter ringing out over the fields, like a melody of the angels.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Rinoa stomped away from the book store in a flury. She wasn't sure if she was angry, upset, dissapointed, or what. Things were so strange between her and Squall. Did he want her? Did he have feelings for her? And on top of it all, did he really kill his sister? Was he the murderer responsible for the deaths of Lyra, Zell, and Quistis?
Rinoa was so wrapped up in her thoughts that she didn't notice the scuffling of feet behind her. It was still so early in the morning that she didn't expect anyone to be out. But then she heard it.
"Rinoa," a rough, ragged voice called from behind her.
She turned to find Seifer behind her, grinning sickly. She felt as if all the blood had been drained from her body. She was going to faint.
His grin widened. "Scared? Don't be. I just came to say goodbye, once and for all."
It was then that she noticed the blood dribbling from the corners of his mouth, even while he smiled.
"What....?" she was so shocked that she couldn't finish her sentence.
"What happened? I wasn't as strong as I thought I was. Watch your back Rinoa. You might be next."
With that he collapsed on the ground, revealing the large hole in his back, from which his heart had been scooped out.
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