Author's Note: I want to thank everybody for your positive reviews. This has been a struggle for me on many levels, one of which is the fact that I have the attention span of a spaghetti noodle! So here goes the final part. I hope you enjoy. And constructive criticism is always welcome from such talented folks. Quistis88, you've been so encouraging! I'm beside myself with gratitude.
[INTERIOR - CID'S OFFICE - DAY]
[FADE IN. CLOSE UP of Cid sitting behind his desk, peering at a piece of paper in his hand. His eyes travel back and forth from the paper to someone in front of him, and he grumbles the occasional "hmm."]
[CUT TO SEIFER, sitting across from the headmaster in the middle of three chairs. He is leaned back, running the palm of his hand back and forth over the top of his head. His hair has been shaved off, leaving a thin cover of very light blond fuzz. His knee is jerking in a nervous, repetative motion.]
[CUT TO CID, whose back-and-forth glances continue for a few moments. He then nods solemnly and places the paper on his desk, his other hand removing his glasses.]
CID
I'm going to be totally honest with you, Seifer.
[CUT TO SEIFER, whose knee-jerking and head-rubbing ceases. He looks up expectantly.]
[CUT TO CID. He carefully folds his spectacles and places them on top of the paper.]
CID cont.
I'm wary of allowing you back into Garden.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who looks disappointed but not surprised.]
SEIFER
I understand, sir.
[CUT TO CID, who nods in response. His eyes are grave, with a hint of resentfulness.]
CID
You've done terrible things, son. Horrible things.
[CUT TO SEIFER, unnerved by Cid's emphasis on the word 'horrible'. He averts his eyes.]
[CUT TO CID. He stares at the blonde for a moment before leaning back in his chair and folding his hands over his stomach.]
CID cont.
However... I'm not an irrational man. I do have a significant amount of sympathy for you, which I must admit is due in part to my wife. She has been very supportive of you since her... eh... return.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who, at the mention of Edea, has become visibly uncomfortable. He opens his mouth to speak, then quickly snaps it shut.]
[CUT TO CID, who appears to be guaging Seifer's reaction. He sniffs, and begins to wiggle his fingers.]
CID cont.
I've been in close contact with Raoul McKinser, the headmaster of Trabia Garden...
[CUT TO SEIFER. His head dips shamefully, and he stares at his hands in his lap.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
... and so has Edea. Through many laborous- and a few heated- meetings with him, we've managed to dissuade him from bringing charges against you.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who looks up at Cid, astonished.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
However, Mr. McKinser does expect reparations, which is only fair as I see it. Initially, we planned to search you out, so that he and myself could sit down with you and discuss how these reparations were to be carried out.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who nods.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
Then you showed up this morning. And listening to you... reading this [he taps his finger on the paper], I think I've come up with a much better solution. One that will benefit all concerned parties.
[He leans forward and straightens himself in his seat, then unfolds his glasses and puts them back on.]
CID cont.
I've decided to give you a shot, Seifer.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who straightens his back and takes a deep breath.]
[CUT TO CID, who reaches over and pulls a thick file folder in front of him. He opens it, and thumbs through the papers inside.]
CID cont.
As it stands, you were never officially expelled from Garden. I suppose the technicalities of it were overlooked, as most assumed you would never be back.
[Cid peruses the pages for a moment, then closes the file. He opens a desk drawer and pulls out two sheets of paper, then lays them on the desk and slides them in front of Seifer.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, who looks warily at the papers for a moment. He looks up at Cid, his eyes questioning.]
SEIFER
These are expulsion papers.
[CUT TO CID, who nods.]
CID
I'm giving you your choice of two scenarios, neither of which will be too awfully pleasant for you, I'm sure. But these are your choices, nonetheless... You can choose to-
[The whoosh of the door opening cuts him off, and he looks up.]
CID cont.
Ah! Please, sit down!
[CUT TO SQUALL, who stands in front of the door as it whooshes closed. His gaze is apprehensive.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, his head turned toward Squall. He returns the apprehensive stare.]
[CUT TO SQUALL, who moves toward the chair on Seifer's left. His stare remains on Seifer, growing colder with each step he takes toward him.]
SQUALL (monotone)
I'm sorry I'm late.
[CUT TO CID, who waves his hand dismissively.]
CID
Nonsense. You're right on time.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who turns slightly toward Squall and matches his cold stare. He smiles coolly.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
I was just about to explain to Seifer the conditions of his re-admittance to Garden.
[CUT TO SQUALL, whose eyes widen and snap to Cid as he takes his seat.]
SQUALL
Sir?
[CUT TO CID, nodding.]
CID
Yes. After careful consideration, I have decided to give him another chance.
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL. Squall looks distrustfully at Seifer, who barely conceals a smirk.]
SQUALL
Sir, are you sure... I mean...
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Quite, Commander Leonhart.
[CUT TO SQUALL and SEIFER, who furrows his brows at Squall's title. He shakes his head.]
SEIFER
Commander Newbie Pubey...
[Squall lifts his chin, ignoring Seifer. He is visibly perturbed, but resigned.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Squall, as Commander of this Garden, you are responsible for the assimilation of discipline during peacetime.
[CUT TO SQUALL, who tentatively nods.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
Should Seifer choose to remain enrolled at Garden, you will be... eh... in charge, so to speak... Well, let me explain the terms, for both you and Seifer.
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL. Seifer gives Squall a reproachful look before turning his attention back to Cid.]
[CUT TO CID, who clears his throat.]
CID
As I was saying, Seifer, you have two choices. Your first choice is this... You may remain at Garden as a SeeD cadet for the next three months, until the next field exam. You will be expected to pass the exam, and attain SeeD status. You will not be given another chance, and your inability to pass will result in your official expulsion.
[CUT TO SEIFER and Squall. Seifer stiffens in his seat, slightly gnashing his teeth. Squall looks over at him, emotionless.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Upon successful attainment of SeeD status, you will be required to donate fifty percent of your earnings to Trabia Garden's reconstruction, until the facility is rebuilt. The transactions will be effective with your first paycheck.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who nods a bit grudgingly.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
Your other option is this... You sign the expulsion papers in front of you- indicating that you understand, and officially end your tenure here. At any time thereafter, Raoul McKinser may choose to bring formal charges against you for your part in the destruction of Trabia Garden. Balamb Garden will claim no responsibility for you, and we will not offer you any assistance.
[Cid clears his throat and pushes his glasses up on his nose.]
CID cont.
I'm sure the first option sounds much more appealing to you, but I am giving you a choice... Taking the first option will mean that you will be a very poor young man for quite some time.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who is staring at the expulsion papers.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
However, I'm sure it is much more desirable than the second.
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL. Seifer looks up from the papers and shoves them toward Cid. He attempts a nonchalant expression, but it hardly conceals the sparkle in his eye. Squall watches unemotionally.]
SEIFER
Now why would I come all the way out here and plead with you, just to sign expulsion papers?
[CUT TO CID, who smiles.]
CID
Then you are opting to stay?
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL. Seifer nods, to which Squall takes a deep breath.]
SEIFER
Thank you, sir.
[CUT TO CID, who shakes his head.]
CID
Don't thank me, Seifer. I'm not going to make this easy for you, you know.
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL.]
SEIFER
Of course not, sir.
[CUT TO CID, who opens his mouth to speak. The door opens, and he stops, then smiles.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS as she walks into the office. There is a bruise forming on her forehead, and she appears quite sheepish.]
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL, who have both turned to look at her. Squall eyes the bruise with mild curiosity. Seifer purses his lips and smirks at her.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS, whose expression changes from timid to pure stone as she glares down at Seifer.]
CID (V.O.)
You're just in time, Quistis... Are you alright?
[CLOSE UP on Quistis's face as she struggles to keep her scowl inward.]
[CUT TO CLOSE UP on Seifer's face. He winks and turns back to face Cid.]
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL.]
SEIFER
Lemme guess... I'll be under Instructor Trepe's fine tutelage?
[CUT TO QUISTIS, whose eyes lower to slits. She is visibly ruffled by Seifer's use of 'instructor'.]
QUISTIS
What are you talking about?
[CUT TO CID, who gestures for Quistis to sit in the empty chair to Seifer's right.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS. She cuts her eyes at Seifer while prissily taking her seat. Once seated, she looks at Cid.]
QUISTIS cont.
Sir?
[CUT TO CID. He attempts his most generous smile, and clasps his hands in front of him on the desk.]
CID
Quistis... Mr. Almasy is being re-admitted to Garden...
[CUT TO QUISTIS, SEIFER, and SQUALL. Quistis gives Seifer a cold sideways glance, and her back stiffens. In response, Seifer michievously scoots closer to her. She winces and scoots away.]
CID (V.O.)
... under very strict and uncompromising regulations.
[Quistis furrows her brows, effectively showing her displeasure. Seifer reaches over to pick an invisible piece of lint off of her arm, and she quickly jerks away from his touch. Squall rolls his eyes and looks down at his boots.]
QUISTIS (angrily)
Sir, what is it that you want me to do?
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Well... I'm making you an offer you can't refuse... Well, you can refuse it, but...
[He chuckles at himself.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS, SEIFER, and SQUALL, who all stare at him.]
[CUT TO CID, who coughs and straightens his face.]
CID cont.
Well, Quistis, I'll be frank. I've noticed a sharp decomposition in your attitude over the last few months. It has effected your job performance to the point that your subordinates are complaining, which has never been a problem before.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who stares back at Cid, confused.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
I may be wrong, but I'm guessing that part of your current attitude is due to the revokation of your instructor's license after last semester's field exam.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, SEIFER, and SQUALL. Seifer's eyes widen a bit, and he looks over at Quistis. She stares- heavy-lidded- at Cid for a moment before looking down.]
Quistis
I haven't really noticed a change in my attitude, sir...
[Squall looks over at her, his brow raised.]
CID (V.O.)
Well, most everyone else has. And I can understand your feelings on the matter.
[Quistis nods solemnly. Seifer blinks slowly, and averts his gaze from her. He looks guilty.]
[CUT TO CID, who reaches in his desk drawer again and pulls out another sheet of paper. He takes a pen from the cup in front of Seifer and places it on top of the paper. He slides the paper and pen over to Quistis.]
CID (serious)
Quistis, I need you.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who slowly lifts her eyes to Cid.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
I am going to ask that you prepare Seifer for the upcoming field exam. In return for your compliance, I am offering you your job back.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who brightens a bit. Just as quickly as her expression lifts, she glances over at Seifer and the sour look returns.]
QUISTIS
You mean, provided that he passes.
CID (V.O.)
No.
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Whether he passes or not, I will reinstate your instructor's license, should you choose to prepare him for the exam.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who looks down at the paper in front of her.]
CID (V.O.)
I'm not ordering you to do anything, Quistis. I will need an answer before you leave today.
[Quistis takes a deep breath and closes her eyes. After a moment her eyelids flutter open, and she looks up at Cid, tired. Her head hurts.]
QUISTIS
I'll do it.
[Seifer watches her appraisingly. He is trying to decipher what she is really thinking and feeling.]
[CUT TO CID, who claps his hands together and nods. He looks back and forth between Squall and Quistis.]
CID
I'm proud of you both... I know you will not let me down.
[He stands, and looks down at the three young people in front of him.]
CID cont.
You're all dismissed.
[CUT TO SQUALL, SEIFER and QUISTIS, who all stand.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
I'm going to have Xu type up a formal set of guidelines, and I'll have those to you all by the end of the day... For now- Squall, you go about your normal business... Quistis, would you take Seifer to get his belongings from storage?
[CUT TO SQUALL, SEIFER, and QUISTIS. Squall is finishing a SeeD salute, and turns to walk out. Quistis sighs and nods, turning to leave as well. Seifer watches her until the door closes, then turns back to Cid, Hyperion in hand.]
SEIFER (incredulous)
You kept my stuff?
[CUT TO CID, who gives Seifer an unreadable look. He stares at him for a minute before nodding.]
CID
My wife insisted upon keeping it... She was certain you would be back.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who looks down and nods. He turns to walk out.]
CID (V.O.)
She has the utmost faith in you, Seifer.
[Seifer stops, and is completely still.]
[CUT TO CID as he sits back down.]
CID
You're dismissed.
[CUT TO: HALLWAY OUTSIDE CID'S OFFICE. The door closes behind Seifer just as Xu walks out of her office, a writing tablet in her hand. They both stop dead in their tracks and stare at each other.]
[CUT TO XU, annoyed.]
XU (coldly)
This should be fun to watch.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who holds his chin up and smirks. He opens one side of his duster and slides Hyperion into an oblong leather pocket sewn inside.]
SEIFER
I always knew you liked watching me in action.
[CUT TO XU, who snorts and rolls her eyes.]
XU
The only action I ever liked watching you in was falling on your face... I'm sure you won't let me down this time.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who nods coolly as he begins to walk toward the elevator.]
[CUT TO XU, watching his retreat with a satisfied expression.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, in the elevator as it goes down. He absently rubs his chin with the back of his hand, lost in thought. He looks resolved, a bit happy, but also very uncomfortable... After a moment the elevator stops and dings. We hear the doors whoosh open. Seifer, looking down, moves to get off, but he sees something and stops cold. His head slowly raises. His eyes are slits.]
[CUT TO THREE TOUGH-LOOKING GUYS. They form a 'V', with a dark-haired, muscular young man at the front. This is VALE. The guys behind him are JOBE and WELLSEY. Vale grins malevolently and crosses his arms over his chest.]
VALE
Well lookee here, fellas...
[CUT TO SEIFER, who is unimpressed, uneffected.]
[CUT TO VALE, JOBE and WELLSEY. VALE smirks and gestures to the other two young men.]
VALE
It seems we have a stray dog that's wandered into the building.
[WELLSEY- obviously not the sharpest pencil in the school box- chuckles.]
WELLSEY
Heh... A lapdog... Heh heh heh heh heh...
[Vale and Jobe both smile, and Vale takes a step toward Seifer.]
VALE (menacingly)
Animals aren't allowed in Garden... I'm afraid we're gonna have to put you out.
[CUT TO SEIFER. He yanks on the lapels of his duster, straightening it around his neck.]
SEIFER
I'm back, ladies... Kindly step out of my way before I move you myself.
[CUT TO VALE, JOBE, and WELLSEY. Jobe and Wellsey exchange confused looks. Vale's eyes narrow and his hand strays to his nunchucks, hanging from his hip.]
VALE
The headmaster must be more senile than I thought... [CUT TO SEIFER and VALE. Vale quickly yanks his nunchucku off of his hip. Even quicker is Seifer, who reaches inside his duster and pulls out Hyperion.]
[CUT TO a crowd of people gathering in the hall, watching the standoff. Many are chattering loudly, angered by Seifer's presence. Others are simply shocked to see him. Others still are just excited by the prospect of witnessing a fight.]
[CUT TO SEIFER and VALE. Vale swings his nunchucku around in front of him, showing off.]
VALE
You're not wanted here.
[We hear a section of the crowd cheering... Seifer stands still for a moment, expressionless, watching Vale throw his weapon around. Without a sound or flicker of emotion, he quickly slashes with Hyperion, snagging the nunchucku chain and twirling the weapon around the blade. He spins it in the air over their heads, then flings it down the stairs and into the hall.]
[CUT TO VALE, JOBE, and WELLSEY. Jobe and Wellsey back away from Vale, obviously nervous. Vale looks a bit shaken, as well. He takes a couple of small, quick steps backward.]
VALE
That was a dumbass thing to do, Almasy... Really-
[He is cut short by the sudden appearance of Hyperion's tip at his throat.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, holding the gunblade on Vale. Clint Eastwood comes to mind.]
SEIFER (monotone)
Turn around and walk away.
[CUT TO VALE, JOBE, and WELLSEY. Vale's eyes narrow, and he runs his finger through his hair, his middle finger showing quite prominently as he shoves Hyperion away from him.]
VALE (low)
This ain't over, lapdog.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who simply stands there, staring at Vale.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, VALE, JOBE, and WELLSEY. The three boys turn and slowly begin to descend the stairs, trying deperately to appear unfazed. But people are staring at them, some hooting negatively.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, a thin smile caressing his lips. He opens his trenchcoat and puts Hyperion away, very slowly coming down the stairs. He turns his head slowly from side to side, noting all of the people watching him. He nods, straightens his collar. It is obvious that his small victory has inflated his ego considerably. After slowly scanning the entire crowd, he comes to a stop at the foot of the steps.]
[CUT TO CROWD. They all look around at each other, back and forth to Seifer.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, grinning. He gyrates coolly, funkily tracing a path through the crowd as he sings.]
I was justified when I was five
Raising cain, I'll spit in your eye
Times have changed and now the poor get fat
But the fever's gonna catch you when the bitch gets back...
[He stops and leans forward in front of a particularly peeved young man, evidently quite disgusted by Seifer's appearance in Garden. Seifer waves his hand in front of the guy's face with a flourish.]
Whoa-oh-oh!
[The young man glares at Seifer as he swivels around on his heel and continues to trapse through the crowd, rounding the corner into the circular hall. He meets the eyes of the people he passes, smirking, winking, rocking out.]
I'm a bitch, I'm a bitch
Oh the bitch is back...
Stone-cold sober as a matter of fact!
I can bitch, I can bitch
'Cause I'm better than you!
It's the way that I move
The things that I do
Whoa-oh-oh!
[The thunder of a whip cracking resonates through the hall, and Seifer stops cold, still grinning. He turns his head slowly, very bad-assed, and sees
[QUISTIS, standing in front of the Infirmary, Save the Queen in-hand.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, his back stiffening. There is hushed murmuring and giggles around him, and he narrows his eyes.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS, rolling her whip up and attaching it to her belt. She is no-nonsense, impatient, and matter-of-fact.]
QUISTIS
You're not back yet, bitch.
[After shooting him a very condescending look, she looks around the crowd.]
QUISTIS cont.
You people... get to wherever it is you're supposed to be! Move it!
[CUT TO SEIFER, too embarrassed to look away from her. He senses the smirks and barely-stifled laughter of the people around him, and he takes a deep breath.]
SEIFER
You know, Trepe... I've got the perfect cure for a tight ass.
[CUT TO THE CROWD, most of which freezes in place and looks from Seifer to Quistis. It's one of those "rut roh" moments.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who crosses her arms over her chest. She seems entirely unfazed by the sexual implication of his statement, though perhaps a tiny bit amused.]
QUISTIS (calm)
I guess you learned quite a bit from those lonely shoremen in Balamb.
[CUT TO SEIFER as the crowd whoops. His grin fades, and he purses his lips. He cannot think of a strong comeback.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS. She nods, and turns to walk away.]
QUISTIS
Come on, bitch.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who shoves chuckling cadets out of his way as he follows Quistis down the hall.]
"The Bitch is Back" by Elton John
[INTERIOR - CID'S OFFICE - DAY]
[FADE IN. CLOSE UP of Cid sitting behind his desk, peering at a piece of paper in his hand. His eyes travel back and forth from the paper to someone in front of him, and he grumbles the occasional "hmm."]
[CUT TO SEIFER, sitting across from the headmaster in the middle of three chairs. He is leaned back, running the palm of his hand back and forth over the top of his head. His hair has been shaved off, leaving a thin cover of very light blond fuzz. His knee is jerking in a nervous, repetative motion.]
[CUT TO CID, whose back-and-forth glances continue for a few moments. He then nods solemnly and places the paper on his desk, his other hand removing his glasses.]
CID
I'm going to be totally honest with you, Seifer.
[CUT TO SEIFER, whose knee-jerking and head-rubbing ceases. He looks up expectantly.]
[CUT TO CID. He carefully folds his spectacles and places them on top of the paper.]
CID cont.
I'm wary of allowing you back into Garden.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who looks disappointed but not surprised.]
SEIFER
I understand, sir.
[CUT TO CID, who nods in response. His eyes are grave, with a hint of resentfulness.]
CID
You've done terrible things, son. Horrible things.
[CUT TO SEIFER, unnerved by Cid's emphasis on the word 'horrible'. He averts his eyes.]
[CUT TO CID. He stares at the blonde for a moment before leaning back in his chair and folding his hands over his stomach.]
CID cont.
However... I'm not an irrational man. I do have a significant amount of sympathy for you, which I must admit is due in part to my wife. She has been very supportive of you since her... eh... return.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who, at the mention of Edea, has become visibly uncomfortable. He opens his mouth to speak, then quickly snaps it shut.]
[CUT TO CID, who appears to be guaging Seifer's reaction. He sniffs, and begins to wiggle his fingers.]
CID cont.
I've been in close contact with Raoul McKinser, the headmaster of Trabia Garden...
[CUT TO SEIFER. His head dips shamefully, and he stares at his hands in his lap.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
... and so has Edea. Through many laborous- and a few heated- meetings with him, we've managed to dissuade him from bringing charges against you.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who looks up at Cid, astonished.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
However, Mr. McKinser does expect reparations, which is only fair as I see it. Initially, we planned to search you out, so that he and myself could sit down with you and discuss how these reparations were to be carried out.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who nods.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
Then you showed up this morning. And listening to you... reading this [he taps his finger on the paper], I think I've come up with a much better solution. One that will benefit all concerned parties.
[He leans forward and straightens himself in his seat, then unfolds his glasses and puts them back on.]
CID cont.
I've decided to give you a shot, Seifer.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who straightens his back and takes a deep breath.]
[CUT TO CID, who reaches over and pulls a thick file folder in front of him. He opens it, and thumbs through the papers inside.]
CID cont.
As it stands, you were never officially expelled from Garden. I suppose the technicalities of it were overlooked, as most assumed you would never be back.
[Cid peruses the pages for a moment, then closes the file. He opens a desk drawer and pulls out two sheets of paper, then lays them on the desk and slides them in front of Seifer.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, who looks warily at the papers for a moment. He looks up at Cid, his eyes questioning.]
SEIFER
These are expulsion papers.
[CUT TO CID, who nods.]
CID
I'm giving you your choice of two scenarios, neither of which will be too awfully pleasant for you, I'm sure. But these are your choices, nonetheless... You can choose to-
[The whoosh of the door opening cuts him off, and he looks up.]
CID cont.
Ah! Please, sit down!
[CUT TO SQUALL, who stands in front of the door as it whooshes closed. His gaze is apprehensive.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, his head turned toward Squall. He returns the apprehensive stare.]
[CUT TO SQUALL, who moves toward the chair on Seifer's left. His stare remains on Seifer, growing colder with each step he takes toward him.]
SQUALL (monotone)
I'm sorry I'm late.
[CUT TO CID, who waves his hand dismissively.]
CID
Nonsense. You're right on time.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who turns slightly toward Squall and matches his cold stare. He smiles coolly.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
I was just about to explain to Seifer the conditions of his re-admittance to Garden.
[CUT TO SQUALL, whose eyes widen and snap to Cid as he takes his seat.]
SQUALL
Sir?
[CUT TO CID, nodding.]
CID
Yes. After careful consideration, I have decided to give him another chance.
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL. Squall looks distrustfully at Seifer, who barely conceals a smirk.]
SQUALL
Sir, are you sure... I mean...
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Quite, Commander Leonhart.
[CUT TO SQUALL and SEIFER, who furrows his brows at Squall's title. He shakes his head.]
SEIFER
Commander Newbie Pubey...
[Squall lifts his chin, ignoring Seifer. He is visibly perturbed, but resigned.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Squall, as Commander of this Garden, you are responsible for the assimilation of discipline during peacetime.
[CUT TO SQUALL, who tentatively nods.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
Should Seifer choose to remain enrolled at Garden, you will be... eh... in charge, so to speak... Well, let me explain the terms, for both you and Seifer.
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL. Seifer gives Squall a reproachful look before turning his attention back to Cid.]
[CUT TO CID, who clears his throat.]
CID
As I was saying, Seifer, you have two choices. Your first choice is this... You may remain at Garden as a SeeD cadet for the next three months, until the next field exam. You will be expected to pass the exam, and attain SeeD status. You will not be given another chance, and your inability to pass will result in your official expulsion.
[CUT TO SEIFER and Squall. Seifer stiffens in his seat, slightly gnashing his teeth. Squall looks over at him, emotionless.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Upon successful attainment of SeeD status, you will be required to donate fifty percent of your earnings to Trabia Garden's reconstruction, until the facility is rebuilt. The transactions will be effective with your first paycheck.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who nods a bit grudgingly.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
Your other option is this... You sign the expulsion papers in front of you- indicating that you understand, and officially end your tenure here. At any time thereafter, Raoul McKinser may choose to bring formal charges against you for your part in the destruction of Trabia Garden. Balamb Garden will claim no responsibility for you, and we will not offer you any assistance.
[Cid clears his throat and pushes his glasses up on his nose.]
CID cont.
I'm sure the first option sounds much more appealing to you, but I am giving you a choice... Taking the first option will mean that you will be a very poor young man for quite some time.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who is staring at the expulsion papers.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
However, I'm sure it is much more desirable than the second.
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL. Seifer looks up from the papers and shoves them toward Cid. He attempts a nonchalant expression, but it hardly conceals the sparkle in his eye. Squall watches unemotionally.]
SEIFER
Now why would I come all the way out here and plead with you, just to sign expulsion papers?
[CUT TO CID, who smiles.]
CID
Then you are opting to stay?
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL. Seifer nods, to which Squall takes a deep breath.]
SEIFER
Thank you, sir.
[CUT TO CID, who shakes his head.]
CID
Don't thank me, Seifer. I'm not going to make this easy for you, you know.
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL.]
SEIFER
Of course not, sir.
[CUT TO CID, who opens his mouth to speak. The door opens, and he stops, then smiles.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS as she walks into the office. There is a bruise forming on her forehead, and she appears quite sheepish.]
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL, who have both turned to look at her. Squall eyes the bruise with mild curiosity. Seifer purses his lips and smirks at her.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS, whose expression changes from timid to pure stone as she glares down at Seifer.]
CID (V.O.)
You're just in time, Quistis... Are you alright?
[CLOSE UP on Quistis's face as she struggles to keep her scowl inward.]
[CUT TO CLOSE UP on Seifer's face. He winks and turns back to face Cid.]
[CUT TO SEIFER and SQUALL.]
SEIFER
Lemme guess... I'll be under Instructor Trepe's fine tutelage?
[CUT TO QUISTIS, whose eyes lower to slits. She is visibly ruffled by Seifer's use of 'instructor'.]
QUISTIS
What are you talking about?
[CUT TO CID, who gestures for Quistis to sit in the empty chair to Seifer's right.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS. She cuts her eyes at Seifer while prissily taking her seat. Once seated, she looks at Cid.]
QUISTIS cont.
Sir?
[CUT TO CID. He attempts his most generous smile, and clasps his hands in front of him on the desk.]
CID
Quistis... Mr. Almasy is being re-admitted to Garden...
[CUT TO QUISTIS, SEIFER, and SQUALL. Quistis gives Seifer a cold sideways glance, and her back stiffens. In response, Seifer michievously scoots closer to her. She winces and scoots away.]
CID (V.O.)
... under very strict and uncompromising regulations.
[Quistis furrows her brows, effectively showing her displeasure. Seifer reaches over to pick an invisible piece of lint off of her arm, and she quickly jerks away from his touch. Squall rolls his eyes and looks down at his boots.]
QUISTIS (angrily)
Sir, what is it that you want me to do?
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Well... I'm making you an offer you can't refuse... Well, you can refuse it, but...
[He chuckles at himself.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS, SEIFER, and SQUALL, who all stare at him.]
[CUT TO CID, who coughs and straightens his face.]
CID cont.
Well, Quistis, I'll be frank. I've noticed a sharp decomposition in your attitude over the last few months. It has effected your job performance to the point that your subordinates are complaining, which has never been a problem before.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who stares back at Cid, confused.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
I may be wrong, but I'm guessing that part of your current attitude is due to the revokation of your instructor's license after last semester's field exam.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, SEIFER, and SQUALL. Seifer's eyes widen a bit, and he looks over at Quistis. She stares- heavy-lidded- at Cid for a moment before looking down.]
Quistis
I haven't really noticed a change in my attitude, sir...
[Squall looks over at her, his brow raised.]
CID (V.O.)
Well, most everyone else has. And I can understand your feelings on the matter.
[Quistis nods solemnly. Seifer blinks slowly, and averts his gaze from her. He looks guilty.]
[CUT TO CID, who reaches in his desk drawer again and pulls out another sheet of paper. He takes a pen from the cup in front of Seifer and places it on top of the paper. He slides the paper and pen over to Quistis.]
CID (serious)
Quistis, I need you.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who slowly lifts her eyes to Cid.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
I am going to ask that you prepare Seifer for the upcoming field exam. In return for your compliance, I am offering you your job back.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who brightens a bit. Just as quickly as her expression lifts, she glances over at Seifer and the sour look returns.]
QUISTIS
You mean, provided that he passes.
CID (V.O.)
No.
[CUT TO CID.]
CID
Whether he passes or not, I will reinstate your instructor's license, should you choose to prepare him for the exam.
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who looks down at the paper in front of her.]
CID (V.O.)
I'm not ordering you to do anything, Quistis. I will need an answer before you leave today.
[Quistis takes a deep breath and closes her eyes. After a moment her eyelids flutter open, and she looks up at Cid, tired. Her head hurts.]
QUISTIS
I'll do it.
[Seifer watches her appraisingly. He is trying to decipher what she is really thinking and feeling.]
[CUT TO CID, who claps his hands together and nods. He looks back and forth between Squall and Quistis.]
CID
I'm proud of you both... I know you will not let me down.
[He stands, and looks down at the three young people in front of him.]
CID cont.
You're all dismissed.
[CUT TO SQUALL, SEIFER and QUISTIS, who all stand.]
[CUT TO CID.]
CID cont.
I'm going to have Xu type up a formal set of guidelines, and I'll have those to you all by the end of the day... For now- Squall, you go about your normal business... Quistis, would you take Seifer to get his belongings from storage?
[CUT TO SQUALL, SEIFER, and QUISTIS. Squall is finishing a SeeD salute, and turns to walk out. Quistis sighs and nods, turning to leave as well. Seifer watches her until the door closes, then turns back to Cid, Hyperion in hand.]
SEIFER (incredulous)
You kept my stuff?
[CUT TO CID, who gives Seifer an unreadable look. He stares at him for a minute before nodding.]
CID
My wife insisted upon keeping it... She was certain you would be back.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who looks down and nods. He turns to walk out.]
CID (V.O.)
She has the utmost faith in you, Seifer.
[Seifer stops, and is completely still.]
[CUT TO CID as he sits back down.]
CID
You're dismissed.
[CUT TO: HALLWAY OUTSIDE CID'S OFFICE. The door closes behind Seifer just as Xu walks out of her office, a writing tablet in her hand. They both stop dead in their tracks and stare at each other.]
[CUT TO XU, annoyed.]
XU (coldly)
This should be fun to watch.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who holds his chin up and smirks. He opens one side of his duster and slides Hyperion into an oblong leather pocket sewn inside.]
SEIFER
I always knew you liked watching me in action.
[CUT TO XU, who snorts and rolls her eyes.]
XU
The only action I ever liked watching you in was falling on your face... I'm sure you won't let me down this time.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who nods coolly as he begins to walk toward the elevator.]
[CUT TO XU, watching his retreat with a satisfied expression.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, in the elevator as it goes down. He absently rubs his chin with the back of his hand, lost in thought. He looks resolved, a bit happy, but also very uncomfortable... After a moment the elevator stops and dings. We hear the doors whoosh open. Seifer, looking down, moves to get off, but he sees something and stops cold. His head slowly raises. His eyes are slits.]
[CUT TO THREE TOUGH-LOOKING GUYS. They form a 'V', with a dark-haired, muscular young man at the front. This is VALE. The guys behind him are JOBE and WELLSEY. Vale grins malevolently and crosses his arms over his chest.]
VALE
Well lookee here, fellas...
[CUT TO SEIFER, who is unimpressed, uneffected.]
[CUT TO VALE, JOBE and WELLSEY. VALE smirks and gestures to the other two young men.]
VALE
It seems we have a stray dog that's wandered into the building.
[WELLSEY- obviously not the sharpest pencil in the school box- chuckles.]
WELLSEY
Heh... A lapdog... Heh heh heh heh heh...
[Vale and Jobe both smile, and Vale takes a step toward Seifer.]
VALE (menacingly)
Animals aren't allowed in Garden... I'm afraid we're gonna have to put you out.
[CUT TO SEIFER. He yanks on the lapels of his duster, straightening it around his neck.]
SEIFER
I'm back, ladies... Kindly step out of my way before I move you myself.
[CUT TO VALE, JOBE, and WELLSEY. Jobe and Wellsey exchange confused looks. Vale's eyes narrow and his hand strays to his nunchucks, hanging from his hip.]
VALE
The headmaster must be more senile than I thought... [CUT TO SEIFER and VALE. Vale quickly yanks his nunchucku off of his hip. Even quicker is Seifer, who reaches inside his duster and pulls out Hyperion.]
[CUT TO a crowd of people gathering in the hall, watching the standoff. Many are chattering loudly, angered by Seifer's presence. Others are simply shocked to see him. Others still are just excited by the prospect of witnessing a fight.]
[CUT TO SEIFER and VALE. Vale swings his nunchucku around in front of him, showing off.]
VALE
You're not wanted here.
[We hear a section of the crowd cheering... Seifer stands still for a moment, expressionless, watching Vale throw his weapon around. Without a sound or flicker of emotion, he quickly slashes with Hyperion, snagging the nunchucku chain and twirling the weapon around the blade. He spins it in the air over their heads, then flings it down the stairs and into the hall.]
[CUT TO VALE, JOBE, and WELLSEY. Jobe and Wellsey back away from Vale, obviously nervous. Vale looks a bit shaken, as well. He takes a couple of small, quick steps backward.]
VALE
That was a dumbass thing to do, Almasy... Really-
[He is cut short by the sudden appearance of Hyperion's tip at his throat.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, holding the gunblade on Vale. Clint Eastwood comes to mind.]
SEIFER (monotone)
Turn around and walk away.
[CUT TO VALE, JOBE, and WELLSEY. Vale's eyes narrow, and he runs his finger through his hair, his middle finger showing quite prominently as he shoves Hyperion away from him.]
VALE (low)
This ain't over, lapdog.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who simply stands there, staring at Vale.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, VALE, JOBE, and WELLSEY. The three boys turn and slowly begin to descend the stairs, trying deperately to appear unfazed. But people are staring at them, some hooting negatively.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, a thin smile caressing his lips. He opens his trenchcoat and puts Hyperion away, very slowly coming down the stairs. He turns his head slowly from side to side, noting all of the people watching him. He nods, straightens his collar. It is obvious that his small victory has inflated his ego considerably. After slowly scanning the entire crowd, he comes to a stop at the foot of the steps.]
[CUT TO CROWD. They all look around at each other, back and forth to Seifer.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, grinning. He gyrates coolly, funkily tracing a path through the crowd as he sings.]
I was justified when I was five
Raising cain, I'll spit in your eye
Times have changed and now the poor get fat
But the fever's gonna catch you when the bitch gets back...
[He stops and leans forward in front of a particularly peeved young man, evidently quite disgusted by Seifer's appearance in Garden. Seifer waves his hand in front of the guy's face with a flourish.]
Whoa-oh-oh!
[The young man glares at Seifer as he swivels around on his heel and continues to trapse through the crowd, rounding the corner into the circular hall. He meets the eyes of the people he passes, smirking, winking, rocking out.]
I'm a bitch, I'm a bitch
Oh the bitch is back...
Stone-cold sober as a matter of fact!
I can bitch, I can bitch
'Cause I'm better than you!
It's the way that I move
The things that I do
Whoa-oh-oh!
[The thunder of a whip cracking resonates through the hall, and Seifer stops cold, still grinning. He turns his head slowly, very bad-assed, and sees
[QUISTIS, standing in front of the Infirmary, Save the Queen in-hand.]
[CUT TO SEIFER, his back stiffening. There is hushed murmuring and giggles around him, and he narrows his eyes.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS, rolling her whip up and attaching it to her belt. She is no-nonsense, impatient, and matter-of-fact.]
QUISTIS
You're not back yet, bitch.
[After shooting him a very condescending look, she looks around the crowd.]
QUISTIS cont.
You people... get to wherever it is you're supposed to be! Move it!
[CUT TO SEIFER, too embarrassed to look away from her. He senses the smirks and barely-stifled laughter of the people around him, and he takes a deep breath.]
SEIFER
You know, Trepe... I've got the perfect cure for a tight ass.
[CUT TO THE CROWD, most of which freezes in place and looks from Seifer to Quistis. It's one of those "rut roh" moments.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS, who crosses her arms over her chest. She seems entirely unfazed by the sexual implication of his statement, though perhaps a tiny bit amused.]
QUISTIS (calm)
I guess you learned quite a bit from those lonely shoremen in Balamb.
[CUT TO SEIFER as the crowd whoops. His grin fades, and he purses his lips. He cannot think of a strong comeback.]
[CUT TO QUISTIS. She nods, and turns to walk away.]
QUISTIS
Come on, bitch.
[CUT TO SEIFER, who shoves chuckling cadets out of his way as he follows Quistis down the hall.]
"The Bitch is Back" by Elton John