Chapter two!
Also re-vamped for your reading pleasure ^.^ not much else to say that I haven't said in chapter one. Oh yah! There is one thing. I don't own anything.
Enjoy!
"ZEDANE!? WHERE ARE YOU!?" Zidane and Dagger jerked apart faster than humanly possible. Dagger's cheeks burned and she was fairly positive Zidane could hear her heart beating. Zidane was surprised when his cheeks started to burn, he wasn't one who normally blushed and he suddenly found the chipped paint on the railing very, very interesting. He didn't dare sneak a glance at Dagger. both were extremely crimson. Dammit Eiko... Zidane thought as Eiko bounced up the stairs towards them. How is it that she always appears at the worst possible moments? Dagger swore under her breath and tried not to glare at the naive girl, after all, it wasn't her fault, she didn't know.
"Where have you been!?" Eiko asked as she run up to Zidane and grabbed his hand. "Everyone's wondering where you disappeared to!"
"I've been right here the whole time Eiko" He said with a hint of frustration, trying not to let it grow. Eiko turned to Dagger, trying to ignore that they were both red in the face and wouldn't make eye contact.
"What are you waiting for Dagger?" Dagger looked at her bewildered? Huh.... "You have to open up your gifts now!" Eiko said grabbing Daggers hand with her free one and leading them back towards the party, glad she had stopped what was about to happen between the two before it went to far. Zidane cast Dagger an apologetic smile as Daggers mirrored his. .... we were so close...
"Thank you for coming Freya, The potion you gave me will come in handy" Dagger said, rubbing the bruise on the right side if her face as Freya was taking her leave, smiling at the comment. Almost everyone had left or was passed out on the floor, Those who were left took dawn as a sign that it as time to go home. Freya waved goodbye and left the room, she was heading back to Bermicia tonight and she needed some sleep. Dagger was surprised that all of her friends had come from there home lands just to be here, in Alexandra, for her birthday. Zidane really went out of his way, Dagger thought as she waved farewell to Freya for the third time. "Come visit soon!" she yelled back before she was out of ear shot. Freya nodded her head and smiled showing that she had heard Dagger. She waved again as Freya disappeared down the ships hallways, heading for a place to sleep.
Dagger didn't wave long before she heard Steiner moan from behind her. She turned around and saw him sprawled on the floor. She put her hands on her hips and looked at him I told him that he shouldn't drink anymore, but did he listen... she smiled in amusement as Beatrix walked up beside her.
"That loser!" Beatrix said as she poked him in the ribs with the tip of her boot, Steiner rolled over and moaned a little bit more "He only had two bottles and he couldn't even stomach that!" Dagger couldn't help but laugh.
"Probably the two he confiscated form me!" Dagger laughed louder as Beatrix joined her. Both of them had shared at least four bottles of beer and they were perfectly fine, A little tired and a bit tipsy but that was probably the lack of sleep. "I'll help you carry him back to the castle" she said still laughing
"Nah, let his men do it" Beatrix said, stopping her before she could get to Steiner's side
"But that would embarrass him" Dagger said turning back to her. Beatrix smiled
"That's the point my Princess" she said as they both started laughing again. o-Kay, so maybe the alcohol did have an effect on them but at least they weren't passed out on the floor like Steiner. "We...we should...really get....back....to the.....castle Princess" Beatrix said trying to catch her breath from laughing so hard.
"I...think...your right" Dagger said also trying to catch her breath. Beatrix scanned the room and noticed that the only people left were Steiner, Baku, Cinna, Marcus and Amarant.....all passed out on the floor.
"Funny? I was almost positive that I would have seen Zidane on the floor this mourning with the others" she said looking at Dagger. Dagger sighed
"He and Blank had a drinking contest last night to see who could drink the most.... and.....it kind of got out of hand." Beatrix began to nod as she remembered what happened. Zidane and Blank were both too drunk to think and had started a fight. Dagger tried to pull Zidane off of Blank before he hurt him and he had gotten angry, striking her in the face and knocking her to the floor, unaware of whonit actually was. Dagger was strong but not compared to Zidane, the blow had left her stunned and Zidane received a blow himself from Beatrix. He passed out shortly after. Baku had dragged him to the back room and than came for Blank who was on the verge of passing out himself. Amarant was busy holding Steiner back. "There both in the ships back rooms passed out, its a bit more comfortable than the floor." Dagger reminded Beatrix "Baku brought them there before he, himself, passed out." Beatrix started laughing again and all Dagger could do was stare at her. I could have sworn she would be out for blood?
"What would you expect from Zidane?" She said still laughing "Especially when he and Blank get together after they haven't seen each other in ages, there best friends after all!" Dagger smiled, Beatrix is right, he'll be sorry when he wakes! If not from me than especially from Steiner! Once again the laughing fit started all over again as both girls exited the ship.
Regent Cid started to wake as the suns mourning rays burst through the window, announcing a new day. He had occupied one of the many castle guestrooms the night before. He just wasn't as young as he used to be and needed his sleep, plus he had a few too many drinks as well, and decided that he would rather wake the next day on a bed rather than on the floor. For Garnet's birthday gift, he had given her an indoor garden. It was located at the west end of the castle because there was enough room to add an extension, and she rarely went there, thus giving his servants time to finish it without her becoming suspicious. It also provided her a reason to visit the west wing more often. His main intentions for the garden were to supply Garnet with a place she could call her own. He knew the responsibilities that went with a title as high as hers and he knew that she didn't get a lot of privacy. Now all he had to do was give it to her. He didn't want to pull her from her party last night, he hadn't seen her smile so much at one time in over three years , so he decided that he would present it to her the next day, and since that was her real birthday it worked out for the better.
The good thing about the garden was that it also had a lock on the door so if she did happen to visit that wing for some unknown reason, she wouldn't be able to open the door and ruin the surprise. The garden itself had every flower imaginable. Roses, tulips, daises, impatiens, limoniums, violas, sun flowers, everything. There was a small stone path lading through the garden, passing some ponds and a few trees. The path ended at a grass covered hill surrounded by a small stream with a wooden bridge leading across it. At the top of the hill there was a Sakura (Cheery-blossom) tree. This was the only part of the Garden that didn't have a roof, that way, if Dagger did come here to think, or for whatever other reason, she could look up towards the sky instead of the roof. It also allowed birds and insects into the garden, adding to the effect and providing fresh air for the many plants. The walls of the garden were covered in moss and vines to a point where you couldn't even see them anymore. The garden's path was a 30 minute walk to the Sakura tree with all of the bends and turns. Parts of the roof were made of large sheets of glass, allowing sunlight to shine through so the plants would grow healthier and were watered through pipes that were run underground among the many different garden beds.
Now all he had to do was find Garnet. He was still a bit groggy but dressed as quickly as he could, he wanted to catch her before she became occupied with matters in the castle. As soon as he was dressed he headed out the door in search of the Queen.
Zidane woke that morning with a major headache, wondering why it hurt so much to think. He let out a groan as he tried to sit up and identify where he was and why but failed in the attempt and ended up dropping his head back to the floor and letting an array of colourful word leave his mouth. He groaned again as bits and pieces of memory flooded through his head. He confirmed his suspicions when he turned to his left and found Blank, still passed out, next to him. What the hell happened last night? He wondered as he lay back down and waited for the room to stop spinning. All I remember was, me and Dagger out on the deck, Eiko and her stupid timing, than we came in, than...than.... Zidane let out a low growl as he tried to remember last nights events. Why cant I remember? I Must have drank too much, but I don't remember drinkin--.WAIT! now I remember! Zidane rolled to his side and grabbed his head moaning again. Damn fucking hangover! He thought with bitterness. Water would be excellent right about now.
Zidane remembered Blank had challenged him to a drinking contest, claiming that he had gotten soft since he had decided to stay in Alexandria with Dagger instead of returning to Lindblum. Zidane accepted the challenge, of course, ignoring the warnings of Marcus and Cinna and drank almost more than half of what Blank had. What happened next? He thought, trying to scrape his brain for more information. I know its important.... Zidane's eyes grew wide as he suddenly remembered what it was that was so important. Fuck....I'm in trouble!
Dagger was heading for her room, intent on getting some rest before she had to face the many events the day often brought, like suitors. She touched her cheek and winced, I wonder how I'm going to explain this one? She thought. Many such events were scheduled months in advanced and she wouldn't be able to cancel any. Damn suitors, don't they have a life? She thought as she pulled herself up the staircase leading to her nice, cozy, tempting, warm, inviting, soft bed.
"your Majesty?" Dagger groaned silently, why me? She could hear the pound of a fist to a heart
"Yes?" she asked, as she turned around to find Beatrix. Didn't I give her the day off? "What would you like?"
"Regent Cid has asked for an audience with you, he tells me it is urgent, what shall I tell him?" Beatrix asked waiting for her order. Dagger nodded.
"I will see to him now, where is he?"
"In the west wing, I shall take you there" Beatrix said as Dagger headed back down the stairs.
"Don't be stupid Beatrix, you need your rest, I already told you to take the day off to regain your strength anyway" she told her as she walked past, heading for the west end of the castle "Now I don't want to see you for the rest of the day and that's an order...but ...before you take you leave could you please find me some sort of ice pack." She said wincing again as she put her palm to her cheek.. Beatrix smiled, clasped her fist to her heart and bowed.
"Of course your majesty" and with that Beatrix disappeared down the hall toward the kitchen.
"I wonder what Uncle Cid could possible want..." Dagger wondered out loud as she too, disappeared down the hall playing with the ring on her right index finger. A habit she only started last night.
Zidane was seated at one of the tables in the Tantalus theatre ship, straddling the chair he was sitting on. He quickly drank the large glass of water that Marcus had given him and was thankful for the drugs Cinna had supplied. He headache was still there but not as strong as before. He was just glad he could think without his head throbbing. Blank had woken up shortly after him and because he had drank less than Zidane he didn't have quite as big a headache and could remember more. Baku, Cinna, Marcus and Amarant were all seated around him, also with large cups of water and drugs in front of them.
"I am in so much shit" moaned Zidane as he dropped his head to the table, regretting it as soon as his head began to throb. "What the hell am I suppose to do?" he asked, his voice muffled by the table. Cinna smirked at Marcus and shook his head.
"Don't ask us man, its not our problem you physically laid your hands on the Queen of Alexandria" Amarant answered for all of them. "Were not the ones who got drunk and acted like a jerk, we warned you, you're the one who didn't listen." Zidane groaned, knowing full well that he was right. Maybe if I apologize................a-lot?
"I don't really think its Dagger you have to worry about. If I was you I'd be more worried about her bodyguards, Rusty and Beatrix." Blank said from across the room with a cup of water in his hand. Zidane's head shot up from the table and looked a Blank.
"They saw me hit her?" He asked out-loud getting out of his seat. Cinna started to laugh.
"Shit man! Everyone saw you hit her!!" The room broke out with laughter as Zidane slumped back down into his seat "Besides, its only Rusty"
"Rusty ain't the one I'm worried about. Beatrix is the one I'm afraid of" And with that Zidane slowly wobbled out of the door in search of a hiding spot, with the echo of Cinna, Marcus and even Blank laughing in the background!
"Garnet, my dear!" Regent Cid said walking over to embrace his niece in a hug. "Happy Birthday!"
"Thank you Uncle, what is it that you wanted to see me about that was so important?" Garnet didn't mean to sound so impatient but she was exhausted from last night and desperately needed some rest.
"My goodness! What happened to your face?" He asked bringing his palm up to touch the swollen bruise on Garnets cheek. She winced as his hand made contact and quickly turned her head. "It would seem that I have missed out on the most interesting part of the party!"
"Its nothing uncle, It was an accident." Garnet had forgotten that when Eiko and Vivi were sent out, her uncle had decided to retreat for the night at the same time. He didn't see Zidane strike her.
"Well I hope your right. Anyway, why I asked for your presence was so I could give you your birthday gift!" Garnet hid a smile and accepted the oddly shaped box from her uncle. "Open it!"
"You didn't have to get me anything you know, you came all this way just for my party and that would have been enough for me." Regent Cid knew that she was just being polite. He knew deep down inside she was enjoying all this attention from her friends and close loved ones. Garnet quickly opened the box with a grin on from ear to ear and found a two identical brass keys. She looked up at her uncle and gave him a quizzical look. He still had a smile plastered on his face like a kid in a candy store.
"Come with me!" he said taking her hand and walking down the hall towards a large door at the end. That's weird, I don't remember having a door here? She thought as they came to stop in front of it. "Try the key!" Garnet, still awed at the massive size of the door, did as she was told. She gently pushed the key into the slot, turning it to the left and hearing a soft clicking sound. She turned to her uncle who gestured for her to go in. She turned the large silver knob and eased the door opened, gasping at what she saw.
"Uncle Cid!" she gasped, looking around at her surroundings, at the lovely garden before her eyes. No wonder I didn't recognize the door! "Its beautiful!"
"Do you like it?" He asked amazed at the sparkle in her eyes
"I love it!" she exclaimed, turning around and enclosing her uncle in a tight hug "thank you so much!"
"I know that you don't have a lot of time to yourself so I figured that you could use a place to call your own" Regent Cid explained as they walked a little into the large Garden. "And since you have the keys you can keep others out when you want to be alone." Garnet didn't respond, she was so amazed she didn't know what else to say. Amazingly, the days events suddenly disappeared form her thoughts as she lost herself deeper into the garden, her uncle leaving her to be alone.
later that evening... The sun, now sinking slowly behind the many building of Alexandria, painting the horizon orange. It provided little comfort as Zidane as he watched it sink behind the earth. His legs were tucked under his arms while perched on top of one of the many buildings. Sighing, he mentally kicked himself for not going to see Dagger today. He seriously needed to apologize but he just couldn't get his legs to work properly. Every time he headed in the direction of the castle he always found himself turning around. Today wouldn't have been a good day anyway he thought as a bird flew overhead I'm not feeling my best and tomorrow would be better anyway, I wont be so tipsy. He sighed again, knowing that it was a lie and that he was fully capable to go see her right now. So why don't you? He asked himself only to be answered by the crickets down below. "That's it!" he said out loud, quickly standing up from his position on the roof. "I've got to go talk to her." and with that thought in mind he jumped from the side of the building, slid down the drain pipe and headed for the castle, his mind made up.
Where is he? Garnet thought next to her window. Her head was resting on her hands as she scanned Alexandria below. This isn't like him. I hardly go a day without seeing his face at least once. Worry was written all over her face. Maybe something happened to him....no, that can't be it, someone would have told me. A million thoughts raced through her mind as the sun disappeared beyond the horizon, leaving he sky tinted orange. Maybe I scared him off when we almost kissed? She wondered. She had a tendency to blame herself when questions were left unanswered.
"Your Majesty -- " Beatrix didn't get a chance to finish her sentence before Garnet screamed and jumped about 5 inches off of the floor.
"God, Beatrix. Don't ever sneak up on me like that!" Garnet put her right hand over her heart as if it was going to help calm her down, she started to breath deeply. Beatrix was about to finish the sentence she had started when a sparkle on Garnets finger caught her eye.
"Garnet?" Beatrix asked with a hint of mischief in her voice. She had known Garnet since she was a child and she knew garnet wouldn't wear jewellery unless it was a special occasion, or was forced too. (with the exception of her crystal, of course). "What is that on your finger?" Garnet looked down to the ring on her right index finger and smiled, than turned crimson.
"Oh, this?" she asked holding up her hand so Beatrix to get a closer look. "Zidane gave it to me for my birthday. Its a friendship ring" she stated gazing at it once more. Beatrix hid a smile, she knew how much Zidane meant to Garnet even if Garnet didn't know herself and she hated herself for what she was about to do.
"Prince Skyler is here to see you." Garnet smiled faded as she groaned silently. She turned back towards the window, clearly showing that was not in the mood for more suitors. "He has come from Dali "
"Gee, I'd like to care, but I don't posses that gene." Garnet bitterly said , the worry across her face quickly turned to annoyance as she glared at the sky. Beatrix sighed heavily.
"Your Majesty, please." Beatrix insisted. Garnet sighed again and her shoulders sagged in defeat.
"Where is he waiting?" she asked no louder than a whisper.
"I shall escort you there." Beatrix answered. As she headed towards the door she heard a faint sigh and the shallow footsteps of Garnet following behind her.
Zidane Frowned. He had looked all over the castle and he couldn't find Dagger anywhere. His legs had finally listened to him and she was no where in sight! He had been wondering around the castle for more than an hour now, dogging Steiner whenever he had the chance, ( He had been caught once, but Steiner isn't much faster than Quina so he evaded him easily) and finally decided to go home when he thought he had heard the retreating sound of Daggers voice. He quickly headed down the hall, towards the direction where he had heard her and stopped dead in his tracks at what he saw.
"Let go off me!" Dagger stammered "you're hurting me!" Dagger let out a sharp gasp as the man she was with slammed her against the wall, pinning her there. Zidane quickly hid behind a wall, and pretty much had to hold himself back from beating the shit out of this guy for even thinking about hurting her, but over the years he had trained himself not to show yourself unless it was absolutely necessary, you never know what kind of information you could get by just watching. He prayed that this guy wouldn't go farther than holding her against the wall, but if he did, he wouldn't see another day as far as Zidane was concerned.
"Now you listen to me" The man said making it clear to Dagger that she didn't have a choice. "One way or another you will be mine and so will all of Alexandria." Zidane watched as Dagger winced underneath him. His face right in hers. He was a bit taller than Zidane and was stronger than he looked. His red hair hung over his eyes, casting a shadow so Zidane couldn't tell who he was, weather he was important or a nobody. Judging by the threads he wore he was guessing important. He had a long, navy blue cape that covered his back, black pants, but the thing that worried him the most was the leather gloves he had on with the rhinestones sticking out of the knuckles .
"Please, Skyler" Dagger said, trying to hid the tremble in her voice "Let me go, you have no idea who you're dealing with" Skyler? Zidane thought, why does that sound so familiar? "You will not win" Daggers voice had an eerie calm to it as she stared at Skyler's deep green eyes. Skyler blinked at her in surprise than let out a strong, deep laugh as Dagger continued to stare at him, her chocolate brown eyes beginning to water. Skyler calmed down but still had an evil grin plastered on his face.
"Lucky for me Garnet, you already have a bruise on your face" Skyler retorted bringing his hand to caresses her face. Than, without warning, He brought this hand up and struck her. She yelled in pain as her head whipped to the left and her body came crashing down to the floor. Zidane couldn't take this anymore, this stupid bastard had crossed the line. Zidane was around the corner before Skyler even blinked. Without missing a beat he had punched Skyler square in the ribs causing him to bend over in pain, literally not knowing what hit him.
"Surprise" Zidane smirked as he punched him again in the face this time, causing him to fall backwards to the floor. He gave Skyler a swift kick in the side than hearing a moan coming from Dagger, turned and rushed to her side, Kneeling down beside her. Please be okay....
"Dagger?" He asked turning her over so she was facing up. Skyler had hit her harder than he had expected and she was in danger of passing out. Blood was all over her face from the large, deep, gash there. "Dagger answer me." he pleaded "please."
"Dagger?" Skyler's voice echoed in wonder "Just who the hell do you think you are calling her anything but Queen Garnet you filthy peasant?" Skyler was standing now but his left hand was clutching his stomach, Bit rich coming from this guy, Zidane thought, glaring in his direction. Skyler knew he did some damage, his right hand held the hilt of a sword. Zidane smirked. He couldn't possibly think of challenging me in that type of condition, he cant even walk! Zidane was right, Skyler was trying to close the distance between them but with every step he could see the pain etched across his face. Zidane glanced at Dagger when he felt her stir a bit in his arms. "Dagger?" he questioned again, hope filling his voice. "Zidane?" she groaned "Shhh, don't move. I'm here"
Also re-vamped for your reading pleasure ^.^ not much else to say that I haven't said in chapter one. Oh yah! There is one thing. I don't own anything.
Enjoy!
"ZEDANE!? WHERE ARE YOU!?" Zidane and Dagger jerked apart faster than humanly possible. Dagger's cheeks burned and she was fairly positive Zidane could hear her heart beating. Zidane was surprised when his cheeks started to burn, he wasn't one who normally blushed and he suddenly found the chipped paint on the railing very, very interesting. He didn't dare sneak a glance at Dagger. both were extremely crimson. Dammit Eiko... Zidane thought as Eiko bounced up the stairs towards them. How is it that she always appears at the worst possible moments? Dagger swore under her breath and tried not to glare at the naive girl, after all, it wasn't her fault, she didn't know.
"Where have you been!?" Eiko asked as she run up to Zidane and grabbed his hand. "Everyone's wondering where you disappeared to!"
"I've been right here the whole time Eiko" He said with a hint of frustration, trying not to let it grow. Eiko turned to Dagger, trying to ignore that they were both red in the face and wouldn't make eye contact.
"What are you waiting for Dagger?" Dagger looked at her bewildered? Huh.... "You have to open up your gifts now!" Eiko said grabbing Daggers hand with her free one and leading them back towards the party, glad she had stopped what was about to happen between the two before it went to far. Zidane cast Dagger an apologetic smile as Daggers mirrored his. .... we were so close...
"Thank you for coming Freya, The potion you gave me will come in handy" Dagger said, rubbing the bruise on the right side if her face as Freya was taking her leave, smiling at the comment. Almost everyone had left or was passed out on the floor, Those who were left took dawn as a sign that it as time to go home. Freya waved goodbye and left the room, she was heading back to Bermicia tonight and she needed some sleep. Dagger was surprised that all of her friends had come from there home lands just to be here, in Alexandra, for her birthday. Zidane really went out of his way, Dagger thought as she waved farewell to Freya for the third time. "Come visit soon!" she yelled back before she was out of ear shot. Freya nodded her head and smiled showing that she had heard Dagger. She waved again as Freya disappeared down the ships hallways, heading for a place to sleep.
Dagger didn't wave long before she heard Steiner moan from behind her. She turned around and saw him sprawled on the floor. She put her hands on her hips and looked at him I told him that he shouldn't drink anymore, but did he listen... she smiled in amusement as Beatrix walked up beside her.
"That loser!" Beatrix said as she poked him in the ribs with the tip of her boot, Steiner rolled over and moaned a little bit more "He only had two bottles and he couldn't even stomach that!" Dagger couldn't help but laugh.
"Probably the two he confiscated form me!" Dagger laughed louder as Beatrix joined her. Both of them had shared at least four bottles of beer and they were perfectly fine, A little tired and a bit tipsy but that was probably the lack of sleep. "I'll help you carry him back to the castle" she said still laughing
"Nah, let his men do it" Beatrix said, stopping her before she could get to Steiner's side
"But that would embarrass him" Dagger said turning back to her. Beatrix smiled
"That's the point my Princess" she said as they both started laughing again. o-Kay, so maybe the alcohol did have an effect on them but at least they weren't passed out on the floor like Steiner. "We...we should...really get....back....to the.....castle Princess" Beatrix said trying to catch her breath from laughing so hard.
"I...think...your right" Dagger said also trying to catch her breath. Beatrix scanned the room and noticed that the only people left were Steiner, Baku, Cinna, Marcus and Amarant.....all passed out on the floor.
"Funny? I was almost positive that I would have seen Zidane on the floor this mourning with the others" she said looking at Dagger. Dagger sighed
"He and Blank had a drinking contest last night to see who could drink the most.... and.....it kind of got out of hand." Beatrix began to nod as she remembered what happened. Zidane and Blank were both too drunk to think and had started a fight. Dagger tried to pull Zidane off of Blank before he hurt him and he had gotten angry, striking her in the face and knocking her to the floor, unaware of whonit actually was. Dagger was strong but not compared to Zidane, the blow had left her stunned and Zidane received a blow himself from Beatrix. He passed out shortly after. Baku had dragged him to the back room and than came for Blank who was on the verge of passing out himself. Amarant was busy holding Steiner back. "There both in the ships back rooms passed out, its a bit more comfortable than the floor." Dagger reminded Beatrix "Baku brought them there before he, himself, passed out." Beatrix started laughing again and all Dagger could do was stare at her. I could have sworn she would be out for blood?
"What would you expect from Zidane?" She said still laughing "Especially when he and Blank get together after they haven't seen each other in ages, there best friends after all!" Dagger smiled, Beatrix is right, he'll be sorry when he wakes! If not from me than especially from Steiner! Once again the laughing fit started all over again as both girls exited the ship.
Regent Cid started to wake as the suns mourning rays burst through the window, announcing a new day. He had occupied one of the many castle guestrooms the night before. He just wasn't as young as he used to be and needed his sleep, plus he had a few too many drinks as well, and decided that he would rather wake the next day on a bed rather than on the floor. For Garnet's birthday gift, he had given her an indoor garden. It was located at the west end of the castle because there was enough room to add an extension, and she rarely went there, thus giving his servants time to finish it without her becoming suspicious. It also provided her a reason to visit the west wing more often. His main intentions for the garden were to supply Garnet with a place she could call her own. He knew the responsibilities that went with a title as high as hers and he knew that she didn't get a lot of privacy. Now all he had to do was give it to her. He didn't want to pull her from her party last night, he hadn't seen her smile so much at one time in over three years , so he decided that he would present it to her the next day, and since that was her real birthday it worked out for the better.
The good thing about the garden was that it also had a lock on the door so if she did happen to visit that wing for some unknown reason, she wouldn't be able to open the door and ruin the surprise. The garden itself had every flower imaginable. Roses, tulips, daises, impatiens, limoniums, violas, sun flowers, everything. There was a small stone path lading through the garden, passing some ponds and a few trees. The path ended at a grass covered hill surrounded by a small stream with a wooden bridge leading across it. At the top of the hill there was a Sakura (Cheery-blossom) tree. This was the only part of the Garden that didn't have a roof, that way, if Dagger did come here to think, or for whatever other reason, she could look up towards the sky instead of the roof. It also allowed birds and insects into the garden, adding to the effect and providing fresh air for the many plants. The walls of the garden were covered in moss and vines to a point where you couldn't even see them anymore. The garden's path was a 30 minute walk to the Sakura tree with all of the bends and turns. Parts of the roof were made of large sheets of glass, allowing sunlight to shine through so the plants would grow healthier and were watered through pipes that were run underground among the many different garden beds.
Now all he had to do was find Garnet. He was still a bit groggy but dressed as quickly as he could, he wanted to catch her before she became occupied with matters in the castle. As soon as he was dressed he headed out the door in search of the Queen.
Zidane woke that morning with a major headache, wondering why it hurt so much to think. He let out a groan as he tried to sit up and identify where he was and why but failed in the attempt and ended up dropping his head back to the floor and letting an array of colourful word leave his mouth. He groaned again as bits and pieces of memory flooded through his head. He confirmed his suspicions when he turned to his left and found Blank, still passed out, next to him. What the hell happened last night? He wondered as he lay back down and waited for the room to stop spinning. All I remember was, me and Dagger out on the deck, Eiko and her stupid timing, than we came in, than...than.... Zidane let out a low growl as he tried to remember last nights events. Why cant I remember? I Must have drank too much, but I don't remember drinkin--.WAIT! now I remember! Zidane rolled to his side and grabbed his head moaning again. Damn fucking hangover! He thought with bitterness. Water would be excellent right about now.
Zidane remembered Blank had challenged him to a drinking contest, claiming that he had gotten soft since he had decided to stay in Alexandria with Dagger instead of returning to Lindblum. Zidane accepted the challenge, of course, ignoring the warnings of Marcus and Cinna and drank almost more than half of what Blank had. What happened next? He thought, trying to scrape his brain for more information. I know its important.... Zidane's eyes grew wide as he suddenly remembered what it was that was so important. Fuck....I'm in trouble!
Dagger was heading for her room, intent on getting some rest before she had to face the many events the day often brought, like suitors. She touched her cheek and winced, I wonder how I'm going to explain this one? She thought. Many such events were scheduled months in advanced and she wouldn't be able to cancel any. Damn suitors, don't they have a life? She thought as she pulled herself up the staircase leading to her nice, cozy, tempting, warm, inviting, soft bed.
"your Majesty?" Dagger groaned silently, why me? She could hear the pound of a fist to a heart
"Yes?" she asked, as she turned around to find Beatrix. Didn't I give her the day off? "What would you like?"
"Regent Cid has asked for an audience with you, he tells me it is urgent, what shall I tell him?" Beatrix asked waiting for her order. Dagger nodded.
"I will see to him now, where is he?"
"In the west wing, I shall take you there" Beatrix said as Dagger headed back down the stairs.
"Don't be stupid Beatrix, you need your rest, I already told you to take the day off to regain your strength anyway" she told her as she walked past, heading for the west end of the castle "Now I don't want to see you for the rest of the day and that's an order...but ...before you take you leave could you please find me some sort of ice pack." She said wincing again as she put her palm to her cheek.. Beatrix smiled, clasped her fist to her heart and bowed.
"Of course your majesty" and with that Beatrix disappeared down the hall toward the kitchen.
"I wonder what Uncle Cid could possible want..." Dagger wondered out loud as she too, disappeared down the hall playing with the ring on her right index finger. A habit she only started last night.
Zidane was seated at one of the tables in the Tantalus theatre ship, straddling the chair he was sitting on. He quickly drank the large glass of water that Marcus had given him and was thankful for the drugs Cinna had supplied. He headache was still there but not as strong as before. He was just glad he could think without his head throbbing. Blank had woken up shortly after him and because he had drank less than Zidane he didn't have quite as big a headache and could remember more. Baku, Cinna, Marcus and Amarant were all seated around him, also with large cups of water and drugs in front of them.
"I am in so much shit" moaned Zidane as he dropped his head to the table, regretting it as soon as his head began to throb. "What the hell am I suppose to do?" he asked, his voice muffled by the table. Cinna smirked at Marcus and shook his head.
"Don't ask us man, its not our problem you physically laid your hands on the Queen of Alexandria" Amarant answered for all of them. "Were not the ones who got drunk and acted like a jerk, we warned you, you're the one who didn't listen." Zidane groaned, knowing full well that he was right. Maybe if I apologize................a-lot?
"I don't really think its Dagger you have to worry about. If I was you I'd be more worried about her bodyguards, Rusty and Beatrix." Blank said from across the room with a cup of water in his hand. Zidane's head shot up from the table and looked a Blank.
"They saw me hit her?" He asked out-loud getting out of his seat. Cinna started to laugh.
"Shit man! Everyone saw you hit her!!" The room broke out with laughter as Zidane slumped back down into his seat "Besides, its only Rusty"
"Rusty ain't the one I'm worried about. Beatrix is the one I'm afraid of" And with that Zidane slowly wobbled out of the door in search of a hiding spot, with the echo of Cinna, Marcus and even Blank laughing in the background!
"Garnet, my dear!" Regent Cid said walking over to embrace his niece in a hug. "Happy Birthday!"
"Thank you Uncle, what is it that you wanted to see me about that was so important?" Garnet didn't mean to sound so impatient but she was exhausted from last night and desperately needed some rest.
"My goodness! What happened to your face?" He asked bringing his palm up to touch the swollen bruise on Garnets cheek. She winced as his hand made contact and quickly turned her head. "It would seem that I have missed out on the most interesting part of the party!"
"Its nothing uncle, It was an accident." Garnet had forgotten that when Eiko and Vivi were sent out, her uncle had decided to retreat for the night at the same time. He didn't see Zidane strike her.
"Well I hope your right. Anyway, why I asked for your presence was so I could give you your birthday gift!" Garnet hid a smile and accepted the oddly shaped box from her uncle. "Open it!"
"You didn't have to get me anything you know, you came all this way just for my party and that would have been enough for me." Regent Cid knew that she was just being polite. He knew deep down inside she was enjoying all this attention from her friends and close loved ones. Garnet quickly opened the box with a grin on from ear to ear and found a two identical brass keys. She looked up at her uncle and gave him a quizzical look. He still had a smile plastered on his face like a kid in a candy store.
"Come with me!" he said taking her hand and walking down the hall towards a large door at the end. That's weird, I don't remember having a door here? She thought as they came to stop in front of it. "Try the key!" Garnet, still awed at the massive size of the door, did as she was told. She gently pushed the key into the slot, turning it to the left and hearing a soft clicking sound. She turned to her uncle who gestured for her to go in. She turned the large silver knob and eased the door opened, gasping at what she saw.
"Uncle Cid!" she gasped, looking around at her surroundings, at the lovely garden before her eyes. No wonder I didn't recognize the door! "Its beautiful!"
"Do you like it?" He asked amazed at the sparkle in her eyes
"I love it!" she exclaimed, turning around and enclosing her uncle in a tight hug "thank you so much!"
"I know that you don't have a lot of time to yourself so I figured that you could use a place to call your own" Regent Cid explained as they walked a little into the large Garden. "And since you have the keys you can keep others out when you want to be alone." Garnet didn't respond, she was so amazed she didn't know what else to say. Amazingly, the days events suddenly disappeared form her thoughts as she lost herself deeper into the garden, her uncle leaving her to be alone.
later that evening... The sun, now sinking slowly behind the many building of Alexandria, painting the horizon orange. It provided little comfort as Zidane as he watched it sink behind the earth. His legs were tucked under his arms while perched on top of one of the many buildings. Sighing, he mentally kicked himself for not going to see Dagger today. He seriously needed to apologize but he just couldn't get his legs to work properly. Every time he headed in the direction of the castle he always found himself turning around. Today wouldn't have been a good day anyway he thought as a bird flew overhead I'm not feeling my best and tomorrow would be better anyway, I wont be so tipsy. He sighed again, knowing that it was a lie and that he was fully capable to go see her right now. So why don't you? He asked himself only to be answered by the crickets down below. "That's it!" he said out loud, quickly standing up from his position on the roof. "I've got to go talk to her." and with that thought in mind he jumped from the side of the building, slid down the drain pipe and headed for the castle, his mind made up.
Where is he? Garnet thought next to her window. Her head was resting on her hands as she scanned Alexandria below. This isn't like him. I hardly go a day without seeing his face at least once. Worry was written all over her face. Maybe something happened to him....no, that can't be it, someone would have told me. A million thoughts raced through her mind as the sun disappeared beyond the horizon, leaving he sky tinted orange. Maybe I scared him off when we almost kissed? She wondered. She had a tendency to blame herself when questions were left unanswered.
"Your Majesty -- " Beatrix didn't get a chance to finish her sentence before Garnet screamed and jumped about 5 inches off of the floor.
"God, Beatrix. Don't ever sneak up on me like that!" Garnet put her right hand over her heart as if it was going to help calm her down, she started to breath deeply. Beatrix was about to finish the sentence she had started when a sparkle on Garnets finger caught her eye.
"Garnet?" Beatrix asked with a hint of mischief in her voice. She had known Garnet since she was a child and she knew garnet wouldn't wear jewellery unless it was a special occasion, or was forced too. (with the exception of her crystal, of course). "What is that on your finger?" Garnet looked down to the ring on her right index finger and smiled, than turned crimson.
"Oh, this?" she asked holding up her hand so Beatrix to get a closer look. "Zidane gave it to me for my birthday. Its a friendship ring" she stated gazing at it once more. Beatrix hid a smile, she knew how much Zidane meant to Garnet even if Garnet didn't know herself and she hated herself for what she was about to do.
"Prince Skyler is here to see you." Garnet smiled faded as she groaned silently. She turned back towards the window, clearly showing that was not in the mood for more suitors. "He has come from Dali "
"Gee, I'd like to care, but I don't posses that gene." Garnet bitterly said , the worry across her face quickly turned to annoyance as she glared at the sky. Beatrix sighed heavily.
"Your Majesty, please." Beatrix insisted. Garnet sighed again and her shoulders sagged in defeat.
"Where is he waiting?" she asked no louder than a whisper.
"I shall escort you there." Beatrix answered. As she headed towards the door she heard a faint sigh and the shallow footsteps of Garnet following behind her.
Zidane Frowned. He had looked all over the castle and he couldn't find Dagger anywhere. His legs had finally listened to him and she was no where in sight! He had been wondering around the castle for more than an hour now, dogging Steiner whenever he had the chance, ( He had been caught once, but Steiner isn't much faster than Quina so he evaded him easily) and finally decided to go home when he thought he had heard the retreating sound of Daggers voice. He quickly headed down the hall, towards the direction where he had heard her and stopped dead in his tracks at what he saw.
"Let go off me!" Dagger stammered "you're hurting me!" Dagger let out a sharp gasp as the man she was with slammed her against the wall, pinning her there. Zidane quickly hid behind a wall, and pretty much had to hold himself back from beating the shit out of this guy for even thinking about hurting her, but over the years he had trained himself not to show yourself unless it was absolutely necessary, you never know what kind of information you could get by just watching. He prayed that this guy wouldn't go farther than holding her against the wall, but if he did, he wouldn't see another day as far as Zidane was concerned.
"Now you listen to me" The man said making it clear to Dagger that she didn't have a choice. "One way or another you will be mine and so will all of Alexandria." Zidane watched as Dagger winced underneath him. His face right in hers. He was a bit taller than Zidane and was stronger than he looked. His red hair hung over his eyes, casting a shadow so Zidane couldn't tell who he was, weather he was important or a nobody. Judging by the threads he wore he was guessing important. He had a long, navy blue cape that covered his back, black pants, but the thing that worried him the most was the leather gloves he had on with the rhinestones sticking out of the knuckles .
"Please, Skyler" Dagger said, trying to hid the tremble in her voice "Let me go, you have no idea who you're dealing with" Skyler? Zidane thought, why does that sound so familiar? "You will not win" Daggers voice had an eerie calm to it as she stared at Skyler's deep green eyes. Skyler blinked at her in surprise than let out a strong, deep laugh as Dagger continued to stare at him, her chocolate brown eyes beginning to water. Skyler calmed down but still had an evil grin plastered on his face.
"Lucky for me Garnet, you already have a bruise on your face" Skyler retorted bringing his hand to caresses her face. Than, without warning, He brought this hand up and struck her. She yelled in pain as her head whipped to the left and her body came crashing down to the floor. Zidane couldn't take this anymore, this stupid bastard had crossed the line. Zidane was around the corner before Skyler even blinked. Without missing a beat he had punched Skyler square in the ribs causing him to bend over in pain, literally not knowing what hit him.
"Surprise" Zidane smirked as he punched him again in the face this time, causing him to fall backwards to the floor. He gave Skyler a swift kick in the side than hearing a moan coming from Dagger, turned and rushed to her side, Kneeling down beside her. Please be okay....
"Dagger?" He asked turning her over so she was facing up. Skyler had hit her harder than he had expected and she was in danger of passing out. Blood was all over her face from the large, deep, gash there. "Dagger answer me." he pleaded "please."
"Dagger?" Skyler's voice echoed in wonder "Just who the hell do you think you are calling her anything but Queen Garnet you filthy peasant?" Skyler was standing now but his left hand was clutching his stomach, Bit rich coming from this guy, Zidane thought, glaring in his direction. Skyler knew he did some damage, his right hand held the hilt of a sword. Zidane smirked. He couldn't possibly think of challenging me in that type of condition, he cant even walk! Zidane was right, Skyler was trying to close the distance between them but with every step he could see the pain etched across his face. Zidane glanced at Dagger when he felt her stir a bit in his arms. "Dagger?" he questioned again, hope filling his voice. "Zidane?" she groaned "Shhh, don't move. I'm here"