A/N: Bah to exams I say! *Shakes fist in almighty rage* Hiyas guys! Sorry
for such a long wait - I do have good reasons: 1) School (done now,
huzzah!) and 2) Writers Block. But I'm ok now! Playing Kingdom Hearts has
really inspired me..... I'm tempted to put Leona with Squall but I'll
choose not to, I still love you Zell. Instead, I have a better idea.
~ = Outer thoughts from other people (not Leona's) ok guys?
Anyhoo, on with the fic!
~*~
'Ze- uh, Andrew, I don't have enough money for three large popcorns AND five orders of hotdogs..... I barely even have enough for a pack of Skittles!' I moaned, looking up at the price board for food at the movie theatre. How could I forget how much of a food whore this man was?
Zell pouted, looking rather silly, and hugged his stomach.
'But Leona...... Food,' He said, pointing anxiously to the popping popcorn behind the counter and the hotdogs roasting in little ovens, 'Hot dogs! Come on Leona! I haven't had a hot dog in ages! I think I'm going into Hot Dog denial syndrome..... I neeeeed one!'
I laughed, looking at Zell ridiculously and held out my money, 'Look Andrew! I only have two dollars! See? Two dollars! One large popcorn is THREE dollars and a hot dog alone is five seventy-five! Unless you can magically conjure up money, there's no way your getting a hot dog!' I said, sighing exasperatedly, 'I don't even think I can get my Skittles...'
Zell leaned in close to me and whispered in my ear, 'Do you think Chantal would lend us any money?'
I blinked, confused, 'Chantal....?'
'Yes Leona, you seem to have totally forgotten that I'm here too,' Chantal said, rolling her eyes at me. I laughed nervously and shyly rubbed the back of my head with my hand.
'Oh yeah... hey Chantal I wa-'
Chantal cut me off before I could continue.
'No! N-O Leona! I am not lending you money, I ALWAYS lend you money and you're terrible with paying it back! Just last week I bought you those flip-flops and you STILL haven't given me the money! Now you expect me to pay for your boyfriend's piggish delights? Nuh uh!' Chantal said, shaking her head.
'Piggish delights? Awe, since when am I a pig?' Zell muttered, confused.
'Well, you eat so many hot dogs, you're turning into one!' I pointed out teasingly, 'See? Your even getting a curly tail!' I giggled, reaching back and pinching Zell's butt cheek, something one honestly never gets bored of doing. Zell yelped and jumped a bit, his hand going back to rub his cheek.
'Ow, hey that hurt.. Tch, calling me a pig,' Zell mumbled, crossing his arms. I laughed and turned back to Chantal hopefully. The line was getting shorter and I didn't want us having a little scene once we get up to the counter.
'So whattya say Chantal?' I asked, giving her my biggest, cheesiest grin, 'I'll let ya borrow my PS2 along with Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy Ten and....' I leaned in closer, nudging Chantal cheekily, ' Devil May Cry one and two...then you can stare and drool at Dante all the live long day.'
'Deal,' Chantal said, grinning from ear to ear. I laughed and hugged her, thanking her as she gave me a ten-dollar bill. You gotta love friends for the fact that..... once you know their TRUE weaknesses.... It's so easy to get stuff out of them! Nah, I'm only kidding.... Just is funny when it's harmless stuff like drooling over polygonal, pixilated men... but then again... I turned my head and looked at Zell, smiling as he studied a costume of Shrek in a glass case. He looked torn between being scared and just amused.
'Hi, how may I help you?'
I spun around and smiled at the young woman behind the counter. She looked mean, bored and bitter ... must be bowel movements. I stifled a giggle, making that stupid snorting noise and regained my composure.
'Hi there! Just gimme a sec ok?' I asked, making the girl look more annoyed. I shrugged it off and called over Zell, 'Alright, what do you want again?'
Zell grinned (mmmm sexy grin) and looked about, as if trying to decide all over again what he wanted. I started to get a little impatient; realizing the girl behind the counter looked like she was about to explode, and as gently as possible, stepped on Zell's foot.
'OW! Great Hyne Leona you ARE abusive today!' He cried out, looking at me strangely. I cleared my throat and nodded my head towards the girl behind the counter, my cheeks looking a little flushed.
'Tch,' Zell said, shaking his head, muttering a low 'ow' every now and then, 'Um, could I get three large popcorns and five orders of hot dogs? Oh and, extra cheese if ya don't mind.'
The girl punched the numbers into the tally machine, 'Alright, three large popcorns, five hotdogs, extra cheese and..... What would you like to drink?'
'Uh...' Zell looked at me frantically; obviously unaware of the beverages we had here.
'He'll have a large Pepsi please,' I said, coming up closer to Zell. I could have sworn the girl rolled her eyes at us, obviously thinking Zell and I were complete fruit loops but meh, what can you do.
'Alright, so three large popcorns, five hotdogs, extra cheese and one large Pepsi?' Zell and I nodded, suddenly the girl raised her eyebrow at us, 'This IS for the two of you right?'
I opened my mouth, about to say yes when Zell beat me to it, anxiously reaching over to grab the already prepared food.
'Tch! Hell no! This is for me baby!' He said, the end of it slightly muffled from the hotdog being shoved into his mouth. I sighed and shook my head, well aware of how much of a food fetish my boyfriend obviously had but hey, he looked great so like hell I can complain!
'That comes to twenty-five dollars and 37 cents please.'
What's that noise kids? That's the sound of Leona's jaw dropping to the floor and breaking into a million pieces.
'WHAT!' I shrieked, unable to contain myself. I looked sadly at my now measly ten dollars and turned to Chantal who looked like she was about to blow a gasket, 'Hey Chantal you're my friend right....'
~*~
'I cant believe you talked me into lending you MORE money... with all the money I lend you, you'd think you'd GIVE me BOTH your Playstation's,' Chantal groaned for the five billionth time.
'Aw, thanks though Chantal, I feel nice and full now' Zell said, quite cheery and pleased with himself as he patted his smooth, muscular stomach.
'Cha, well because of you neither Leona or myself were able to get anything to eat... Let me explain my PERSONAL physics rule,' Chantal said, standing up, 'See this? This is my boot,' She said then suddenly grabbed Zell and turned him around, 'This is boot connecting with ass!'
'Ow!' Zell yelped, rubbing his, probably by now, bruised bum, 'Jeeze, you guys are so evil.... I've taken beatings before, but that was all in battles...... never by friends.. Or hell my girlfriend!' He said; looking rather disgruntled in my general direction.
'Aw, poor baby,' Chantal said then stretched and looked at me funny. I could understand why, during this entire time all I had done was sit in my chair... and look bitter. Oh yeah, Leona is bitter right now, more bitter than I've ever been in a while, more bit-
'EARTH TO LEONA!' Chantal cried, cutting off my thoughts as she whacked me with one of those movie magazines.
'What!!' I moaned, annoyed by the disturbance.
'You didn't answer my question!
'What question? I asked, finally standing up, my arm hooking around Zell's.
'How was the movie?' She asked, hooking her arm around mine as the three of us struggled to make it down the thin aisles.
I rolled my eyes, 'I don't know, someone was bitching about money in my ear through the entire thing,' I said dryly.
'Ohh! What jerk was doing that? I'll kick their ass!' Zell said, obviously getting revved up. I laughed nervously and patted his arm in an attempt to calm him down.
'Whoa there turbo, don't go all Schwarzenegger on me now, it's ok.... It was only Chantal.'
'Heeeeeey, ' Chantal hissed, slapping my arm just as I dumped two of the large popcorn cylinders into the garbage, 'I was not!
'You were too! And I'm not in the mood to argue over it right now so.... go... Suck a pineapple or something!' I said, crossing my arms, rather irritated.
'Suck a pineapple? Riiiiiiiight..... Ok well, I'm gonna go call my mom to come pick me up,' She said, walking over to the pay phones.
'You can't give us a ride?' I asked.
'Nope! I gotta go to Rogers tonight! My mom said she'd take me there right from here! I'll call you tonight ok? And Andrew! It was nice meeting you!' Chantal called before waving and disappearing into the crowd. Zell was looking around manically, a confused look on his face.
'Andrew? Who the heck's Andrew?' He muttered, scratching his head bewilderedly.
'Your alter-ego,' I said, grabbing his hand and leading him out of the movie theatre.
'I have an alter ego....?'
'Yes, you do, and so do I - I am known as Dorrito Woman,' I said dryly, 'and if we don't haul some serious Dorrito ass, we're going to miss our bus!'
'Dorrito Woman? Right, ok Leona, I get the woman part... but the Dorrito things just not clicking in, what the hells a dorrito?' Zell said, looking more and more confused. If we had been in an anime... he most likely would be swimming in a sweat drop right about now.
'I'll explain later,' I said, practically pulling Zell, the bus we needed starting to drive away from the stop. I let go of Zell's hand and started waving my arms, running towards the moving bus but it didn't stop. I cursed and growled through my teeth.
'Argh! We missed our bus!' I cried, grabbing Zell's shirt, 'Damn you public transit!' I turned around and started shaking my fist at the already gone bus and only ended up getting some disgruntled honks from passing cars.
'Tch, why don't we just walk in kitten?' Zell said, kissing my forehead and wrapping his arms around my waist, 'Man sugar, you get waaaaaay too worked up over the smallest things sometimes.'
'Shush you,' I said shyly, 'But still... it's a half hour walk,' I groaned, burying my face into Zell's chest, 'It'll be eleven o'clock by the time we get home.... And that's only if we're lucky! My parents come home at eleven thirty and if they know we've been out that late together they're gonna kill me!'
'Then we'll just make sure we'll get home in time, no?' Zell said, pulling away and taking my hand, the two of us starting to walk down the sidewalk. For the first little while the two of us didn't say anything, I think both of us were just focusing on the setting sun... the gorgeous gold's and yellows...... deep and light oranges... purples.. pinks.. reds.. deep reds.... Blood red.... the water, earth and sky tainted with blood.... Blood everywhere!
'Leona?'
I barely heard Zell's voice when everything started to spin, my vision become blurred, I couldn't hear any noise and then suddenly it cleared..... and all I could see was...
'No,' I heard myself whisper; my eyes not seeing what Zell or any normal person was, no, I was seeing another world...... A scorched, dark, blood stained world..... Zell's world.
And then like that, I was back on the street, noise returned and everything was normal.
'Leona?' Zell said, this time softer, his arms releasing some of their tight hold. I ran my hands through my hair nervously, shaking my head slowly back and forth, 'Leona, your shaking, what's wrong?" I heard Zell ask, the urgency rising in his voice.
'I'm ok....' I murmured, moving away and sitting down on a near by bench. Zell looked at me, concern radiating in his eyes, and sat down beside me. I took some deep breaths as his hand gently rubbed my back, eventually leaning my head on his shoulder.
'What was it, kitten?'
'We need to go back Zell,' I whispered softly, looking down at the ground.
'What do you mean go back? I'm sure everyone's ok Leona..... And besides, we don't know how to go back in the first place,' Zell said gently, softly pushing my hair back and planting a kiss on my forehead, 'everything's Ok.'
I stood up and started pacing in front of him, 'No Zell, everything ISNT ok. I just..... I think I just had a premonition,' I turned to Zell, desperation rising in my voice, 'We need to go back Zell, we've been so nonchalant but really, I fear for the worst.'
'Hey, Leona calm down ok sugar? You don't know..... I'm sure everyone's holding their own and until we can find a way back, all we can do is sit tight and sit this one out,' Zell explained, standing up and wrapping his arms around my waist.
'No, Zell.... we need to go, and we need to go now - everything's red..... Everything painted in blood,' I whispered, the last thing I heard was Zell's gasp and then after a bright flash of blue, everything went black.
~*~
'I think she's waking up.'
'God it's been ages since I've seen Leona..... Dr. Kadowaki said she was ok.'
'Well, let's hope she is.'
'How's Zell handling the news?'
'Ok.... I think he's still in shock - he hasn't left his dorm for the past couple days.'
....Days?
'Yeah, I. don't blame him.... A lot's happened since he's been gone..... I think he feels guilty.'
....What? What's happened? Where am I? Where's Zell?
'Maybe... Hey, I think she's waking up! Her eyes just fluttered a bit!'
'She was probably dreaming, Selphie.'
.....Selphie?
'No really! I think she's waking up! Come on Leona, hey wake up silly head!'
I groaned as my eyelids were suddenly pulled open, bright light spilling in. I blinked a couple times, my eyesight still pretty blurry.
'Ugnh..... Where...?' I moaned, shaking my head a bit, as if trying to shake away the killer headache I have. Where was the only comprehensible word I could get out before my mouth suddenly went numb again.
'Hey, don't move too much.... Your safe Leona.'
......Safe.
Once again I was thrown back into darkness before I could fully make out the figure leaning over me.
~*~
'Mmmm,' I moaned slightly as I turned over, hugging the pillow closer to me. The bed I was snoozing in was considerably comfy and the pillows were super fluffy. Still not quite sure where I am but hey, what does it matter? I'm partially awake and laying in an extremely comfy bed..... actually, a bed that seems very familiar...
'She looks funny when she sleeps.'
I heard a laugh and some clothes ruffle from movement.
'Yeah. She drools too.'
'That's sexy. That must drive you wild, eh Zell?'
There was a dull thud, like someone's arm had been punched.
'Tch, shaddup Seifer - we all know you drool like some crazed fan girl when she sees her hottie.'
'Your gonna get it for that one Dincht.'
Like hell I was going to be able to sleep through this. So thus, I decided to open my eyes.
'What the hell! Cant someone get some sleep around here!' I said groaned angrily, rubbing my eyes as I did so.
'Leona! Your awake!'
I recognized Zell's voice instantly and released an 'oomph' as I felt his muscular body totally glomp me.
'Zell?' I murmured; opening my eyes to see a head of spiky blonde hair beneath my neck and a tattooed face buried in my cleavage. Well, whatever floats his boat I thought, my hand reaching up to gently rub his cheek. He lifted his head and smiled that amazing grin of his and proceeded to cover me in kisses.
'Damn girl, I've been worried sick! You've been in a coma for nearly three weeks since we got back!' He said, pausing after every other word to kiss me again.
'Wha? We're back!' I cried, suddenly sitting up, Zell taking a face plant right into the mattress. I looked around the room, instantly recognizing it as the hospital wing in Balamb Garden. Here comes a killer case of Déjà vu.
'Good, your finally awake space cadet.'
I rolled my eyes as Seifer appeared in the doorway, grinning teasingly at me.
'Hello Mr. drool,' I said dryly. He scowled and then walked over to the bed, sitting down. I looked at him..... He looked.... Different. Confused by this, he obviously noticed and suddenly slapped my back, laughing loudly. I nearly coughed up a lung from the force of the hit.
'Hyne woman! You know, you disappear at some of the worst times, and you drive me up the wall but for once in my life, it's good to see you back - and usually, I don't feel that way about anyone.'
'Ha ha.... um.... Thanks,' I said, a little unsure of how to react. Any form of amiability from Seifer was odd. It either meant he wanted something, or he was making fun of me, 'Right, what's the catch?' I asked.
'Uh, simply being..... oh what's that word, I don't use it too often.. oh yeah!' He leaned in closer and grinned like a shark, 'friendly.'
'Pfft,' I said, pushing him away before I grabbed the pillow and chucked it at him, all playfully of course, 'Your yanking my chain!'
Seifer shrugged and nodded his head towards Zell, 'Nah, I'll leave any yanking of any chains between you two,' He wiggled his eyebrows suggestively and walked out of the room, laughing.
'He is such a doink, ' I said, lying back against Zell, my head in his lap.
'Ah, ya learn to love him.... he teases me like hell, no where near as bad as he used to, but for some reason I like the guy,' Zell said, lazily drawing circles on my tummy. I sighed contently and nodded my head, simply enjoying the fact I was back....
'Zell!' I cried, suddenly jumping up, not even noticing I wasn't wearing anything more than a flimsy hospital gown, 'What's going on here? Is everyone ok? Is that 'thing' here yet? Has anyone died! Ahhh tell me Zell! Stopped looking like such a stunned guppy and open your lips and SPEAK!' I cried, panic, excitement and anxiety tearing at me.
'Whoa! Slow down kitten! I can only answer so many questions with the time you've given me,' He said, holding his hand out. I took it and he sat me back down on the bed, 'yes, something's happened-'
'What!' I cried, cutting him off. He looked at me sternly, and I hushed up.
'Three years have passed while we've been gone-'
'Oh my god! Three years?!' I cried out again.
'Leona! Hyne, let me finish ok? I cant tell you anything if you keep cutting me off!' Zell said, obviously annoyed.
'Sorry,' I muttered softly, feeling bad.
'Hey, it's ok.... Just no more cutting me off, ok kitten?' He said, lifting my chin and smiling at me as I nodded, 'Alright...... Three years have passed. You were right when ya said time passes quicker here than in your world. Yes, some people have been killed..... And yes, the people of my world have been under attack from a new threat these past two years.'
'Do you know what it is?' I asked. Zell shook his head.
'I've been talking to Squall, and by the way, he looks a helluva lot different too, wait till you see. Anyways, I've been talking with him and the others, and they're still unsure of who or what's doing it..... but all the monsters - it seems there's a strong concentration of them growing near the old orphanage. Cid and Edea have been moved here, along with some of the orphans, but....'
'But what?' I asked, my hand grasping his arm with anxiety.
'But whatever's doing this... it's targeting children,' Zell said, sighing.
'No..... no way,' I said softly, 'why would it want children?'
'I don't know!' Zell said, obviously frustrated, 'it's so sick and just totally wrong... but, we've sent some SeeDs to the area, just some observation teams, and they've all been wiped out. Luckily, we were able to salvage one of the recordings they were able to make....'
Zell trailed off again, giving me a sinking feeling inside, 'what was on those tapes Zell?'
'The.. The children are,' He said tensely, running a hand through his hair. He looked at me, concern and.... fear in his eyes, 'But, they.... They were so deformed Leona - they looked a cross between some of the monsters we fight, like someone's been genetically modifying them, it's disgusting. And.. There's absolutely no life to their eyes at all.'
I felt sick to my stomach, 'Are they're.... young children?' I asked, almost terrified of the answer. Zell shook his head and I felt some relief fall over me.
'No, they seem to range between the preteen ages to teenagers,' Zell swallowed harshly and started to nervously crack his knuckles, 'some of our won students were on those recordings Leona. Students I've seen or talked to..... Devouring others,' Zell started to shake and I wrapped my arms around him, the two of us gently rocking back and forth.
'Hey..... We'll figure this out, we'll find who's doing this.... and we'll stop them,' I said, feeling more intent on succeeding in that than I ever had with anything in my life, 'I promise we'll stop this together and no more people will be hurt.'
'That's what I want to hear.'
I turned around to see Squall leaning in the doorway and my jaw nearly dropped to the floor. He had longer hair and wore a black vest. He had his usual pants and array of belts...... and that ever-daunting scar.... But he looked totally different. Put simply, he looked hot.
'Squall,' I managed, desperately trying to stop my gawk-age.
'Hey Leona... your looking much better,' He said softly, walking in and sitting down on the bed. I smiled as, once again; I slid a bit towards him from his weight shifting the mattress.
'Yeah, I was feeling good..... Until Zell told me what's been going on, 'I said, looking at Squall seriously, 'this is really happening? Some sick psycho is really using children? Kids nearly our age?' I asked; it was more of a rhetorical question. Squall picked up on it and only nodded to himself.
'Yeah... I'm glad Zell filled you in. Better you hearing it from him than me, I'm still a stranger to you.'
'No,' I said softly, leaning forward to hug Squall. I always thought hugging Squall would be an awkward thing, like he would push me away or something, but he didn't, in fact, it almost felt like he was truly welcoming it, 'your not a stranger to me Squall, and I have no doubt your equally as stressed out, scared and worried as anyone else here.'
'Yeah,' He said quietly, pulling away and standing up. I looked at him, concerned and he only stared back, as if searching me with his eyes and then nodded towards Zell and left.
'Wow... I mean, I noticed a change in Seifer..... but Squall-' I began but was cut off when Zell turned around and suddenly wrapped his arms around me. I hugged him back and kissed his cheek, 'Hey, you ok?'
'I don't know...... Look, I'm obviously going to be the first and only one to tell you, but it'll be awkward if you don't know this,' Zell said solemnly.
'What is it?' I asked, again, fear swelling up inside of me.
'Rinoa..... Rinoa was taken. We haven't gotten any word from her, we're just hoping she's only being held hostage..... And no experiments or whatever this sicko does for kicks, are being done on her.'
'No!' I cried, my hand covering my mouth, tears swelling up in my eyes, 'no, why would it want Rinoa?' I asked, my voice choking.
Zell sighed and placed his head in his hands, 'I don't know... a lot's happened Leona. Squall's still pretty shaken up.... he's pretty much gone back to being Mr. introvert. I'm surprised he allowed you to touch him, hell even speak to you.....'
'He's lonely,' I said, feeling something stir inside of me, as if I could feel how Squall felt..... And suddenly, I felt how Zell truly felt too. He was afraid of losing me, seeing me turned into one of those monsters, afraid of me dying..... Afraid he wont be able to prevent it..... the way Squall wasn't able to for Rinoa.
'Zell,' I said, taking his hand in mine and squeezing it, 'I'll always be here to protect you as you'll always be here to protect me,' I said, my other hand gently rubbing his cheek as I smiled encouragingly, 'Yes, things are looking pretty grim right now... but we'll pull through.'
'How do you know for sure?' Zell asked, doubt radiating in his voice. I didn't pay any attention to it.
'Because I just do, 'I said solidly.
~*~
After Zell's and my conversation, Zell left, muttering something about training. I nodded and sighed, feeling pretty lonely myself and decided to head to my old dorm. I threw on Zell's jacket that he had left behind for me and shuffled through the great hall of Balamb Garden clad in a hospital gown, Zell's jacket and slippers. Suddenly, I heard someone call my name from above. Ok, there's no way God or Hyne or whatever could sound like Selphie....
'Leona! Your awake!' Selphie cried, waving at me from the second floor hallway by the elevator. I looked up and chuckled to myself as her voice practically echoed through all of Balamb garden. Hey, it was a pretty large open space. Almost instantly the elevator made a delightful 'ping' and Selphie came bounding out of it. I laughed as she tackled me, the two of us falling to the floor, laughing.
'Yay! I'm so glad your back Leonie! I've missed you so much!' She cried, hugging me one more time before we both stood back up, ignoring the crowd around us. I laughed and scratched my forehead shyly.
'Yeah, hey I'm not that special,' I said, trying to straighten out my hospital gown as best I could. Selphie frowned and lightly punched my arm.
'Yes! You are Leona! Now then, everyone's in the Caf right now so we better go meet them!' She cried, hooking her arm around mine. I laughed but pulled in the other direction.
'Um, I have to go to my old Dorm Selphie!' I said, knowing I had some clothes there I could change into.
Selphie looked at me quizzically and then suddenly went 'ohhhhh!!' when she noticed my um, current attire, 'Okies! Um, I think your dorm was taken over by some of the orphans who managed to escape here.... But you can bunk with Irvine and me if ya like' She offered happily. I got a mental image of me trying to sleep while Irvine uh.... Put the 'moves' on Selphie and cringed.
'You know, it's a lovely, kind offer Selphie, but I think I'm gonna bunk with Zell,' I said. Selphie grinned cheekily and nudged my rib cage with her elbow.
'Oh yeah? That doesn't surprise me..... I bet you'll have lots of "fun",' She giggled, raising her eyebrows suggestively at me. I shook my head, chuckling, a slight blush creeping up on my cheeks, 'HA! See! Your bluuuuushing!'
'Ah, cut it out Selphie,' I said in protest, still smiling shyly then looked at her curiously, 'Um actually..... I know I had some clothes in my dorm, were they moved?'
'OH! Yeah I forgot! I have them! We'll stop by my dorm and pick them up! You can change there and then we'll boogie on down to the Caf!'
I laughed and hugged Selphie, 'Thanks Selph, that'll be awesome.'
She beamed and hugged me back, 'Ah, it's what I'm here for.'
~*~
'Leona? Ya ready?'
I heard Selphie's voice room the other side of her bedroom door, 'in a minute!' I called back, just zipping up the back of the mini skirt. I opened the door and stepped out, Selphie nodding in approval.
'Nice choice,' She said. We had tried to find my clothes but in the end they didn't turn up so Selphie just told me to raid her closet and come up with any outfit I wanted. I took one look at her packed closet and was in heaven. Good thing she and I were roughly the same size in waist and chest. However, I was a bit taller than her so I had to resort to wearing a skirt but hey, I looked pretty good in it if I do say so myself!
'I like very much!' Selphie said, walking circles around me. 'The black mini skirt looks uber cute with the platform hooch boots and the white top, with the flowing mesh sleeves, looks brilliant!' She slapped her hands together and then flashed me the peace sign, 'You get the Selphie Stamp of Approval!'
I laughed and felt my face flush a bit, 'Thanks.'
Selphie grinned cheekily again and I knew she was about to crack some sort of dirty joke, 'Zell's going to need a gazillion buckets when he sees you!'
'I doubt that very much, ' I said as the two of us walked out of her dorm and down the hallway towards the Caf, 'I don't look THAT good. The only thing he drools over, are hot dogs and trust me honey, for some reason, I just don't compare.'
Selphie waved it off and chuckled, 'But that's different. Zell's just an all around human garburator... he's a food whore. He really loves you and thinks your gorgeous, just hot dogs distract him a bit. Trust me, you do compare, and when it comes to being his woman, you win.'
'I don't think hotdogs stand much of a chance against that one, considering they are just food,' I said, shaking my head. Selphie nodded and the two of us walked into the Caf, Selphie giggling and telling me every time a passing guy stared at me. It really felt weird to know I looked that good. I mean; I am truly the every day fem-geek. I wear baggy t- shirts that either have anime characters or videogame characters on it and I'm always kicking around in a pair of jeans or something along those lines.
'Hey guys!' Selphie said, pulling me down into a chair, also successfully pulling me out of the evaluation of my wardrobe I was having (thank Hyne). I noticed Zell wasn't at the table but shrugged it off; he usually would go to train in the training facility if he was stressed out.
'Hey baby, 'Irvine said, lifting Selphie up and pulling her into his lap. The two shared a kiss and I felt a punch on my arm. I turned around to see Seifer munching away on a piece of toast, Quistis flipping through a copy of the newspaper.
'Did you just punch me?' I asked, raising my eyebrow at Seifer. He tried to look innocent but failed miserably and grinned, taking another bite out of his piece of toast. That man had changed. A lot. I shook my head and looked across the table, noticing a very grave looking Squall twirling his cold cereal with his spoon. I felt sorry for the poor guy, I knew how much he cared for Rinoa, as much as I care for Zell.... must be so hard for him.
'Hey you, why are you ogling at Squall? Is he your new drool toy when Zell's not available?' Seifer teased, smirking at me. I rolled my eyes and punched him in the arm, so hard he actually muttered an 'ow' and rubbed it.
I turned to him and grinned, feeling totally satisfied, 'You know, your like one of those stress balls, I can beat you up as much as I like, and feel so much better. Hearing you actually say ouch by being decked by me... has totally made my day,' I said, grinning. Seifer muttered something along the lines of 'Ice Bitch' under his breath, which only made my grin broaden. Suddenly though, I heard his voice in my head... he was saying something but I couldn't understand it.... but I felt it. He felt worried, concerned.... for me?
'So Leona, what do you say we get some training in later on today hm?' Quistis asked, startling me a bit. I guess I had zoned out. She put down her paper to take a sip from her coffee. She grasped the mug with two hands, her bright blue eyes staring at me through her glasses above the mug. She looked older and even more sophisticated than the last time I saw her... Things really had changed, with everyone, except maybe Selphie and Irvine. Besides looking older, the two actually looked and acted the same.
'Sure, I'm up for that,' I said, surprised when a lunch lady placed a plate of food down in front of me. I thanked her, a little confused. Quistis nodded and went back to looking at the paper. Again..... I felt something, something like a combination between admiration.... And a trace of fear.... But I couldn't pin point the emotion exactly. Why was I feeling this in the first place? It wasn't my emotion that was for sure... it couldn't be Quistis' could it?
'We ordered you some breakfast. Eat up and meet Quistis and I in the training center in two hours,' Squall said, his spoon clattering in the bowl as he dropped it completely taking me out of my thoughts. He was up and gone out of the Caf before I even felt or could say anything.
'This looks good,' I said to no one in particular and started to munch away on some toast with jam, deciding to try some of my sausages in a bit. As I ate, I thought about what was going on. Why did it seem like I was reading everyone's emotions? Even picking up on some words at times... it was just too weird. I wasn't a mind reader; I knew that for sure. But.... Why was it every time I looked at these people, I felt.... I felt so protective? This warm feeling encompasses me and all I can think about is how much I don't want anything to happen to them....
'Hey Leona? You ok?' Selphie asked, placing a hand on my arm. I smiled and nodded my head.
'Yeah, I'll be ok Selphie.'
'You looked pretty out of it there... something on your mind?'
'Everyone and everything,' I said, deciding I really needed to talk to Zell and maybe find Edea. Perhaps she would be able to help me..... I doubted very much I'd be able t speak with Shiva again. I stood up and left the Caf, feeling bad for just leaving all that food on my plate but I needed to talk to Zell. I walked to his dorm and knocked on the door for nearly fifteen minutes and got no answer.
'He must still be at the training center,' I murmured, turning around and walking towards the training center. I glanced at my watch, making sure I was ok on time. I was supposed to meet Squall and Quisty in about an hour and forty-five minutes.... I had loads of time, but I made sure I wasn't risking it and started to jog. I made it to the training center in no time but fund myself facing a bit of a roadblock. I had no weapons, no items and no powers equipped with me.... so if I went in there just as I am, I would so be the toast I ate this morning.
'Better go find weapons,' I said, turning around and jogging to the elevator. I knew Squall probably had some up in his office and knowing him, he was probably there right now. I pressed the third floor button and waited patiently as the lift rose. There was a delightful 'ping' and the doors smoothly slid open. I walked towards the large wooden, double doors and knocked. I heard Squalls rough voice say 'come in' and turned one of the knobs. Right when I opened the door, a wave of pain and deep sorrow flooded through my body. It obviously wasn't mine... it was Squalls.
'Squall,' I said softly before I collapsed onto my knees. Was Squall's pain and sadness truly this deep? This harsh? I could barely stand from the weight of it.... why was I feeling this?
'Leona!' Squall said, standing up and rushing over to me, I felt the emotions change a little, the deep sorrow and pain still there, but some of it replaced with worry. Squall helped me up and sat me down in one of the chairs. He kneeled in front of me, pulling off a glove from his hand and pressing it to my forehead.
'What's wrong Leona? You've gone pale as a ghost.....'
'Squall,' I said softly, deciding if there's anyone I should tell about this, it should be Squall, 'I've.... Ever since I woke up in the hospital wing... I've been feeling and reading peoples emotions.'
'What do you mean?' He asked, crossing his arms and leaning against the desk, a look of concern spreading across his handsome features.
'I mean, I feel other peoples emotions without wanting to..... It just.... happens. As the day has been progressing it's been getting more and more.. Powerful I guess you could say,' I explained, nervously running a hand through my hair.
Squall suddenly looked a little uncomfortable. Instantly I read his feelings and felt what he felt.
'Yes Squall, I can feel your pain..... It's immense.... That's why I collapsed,' I confessed softly. Squall looked torn between shocked and embarrassed.
'I.... How?' He stuttered.
'I don't know,' I said, cracking my knuckles nervously, ' It's like.... Ever since I've come back, this has started happening. I swear by the minute it's getting more powerful, I just read your emotions in a second. As we speak I can feel what your feeling..... and...' I trailed off, a little shy to say what I was about to say.
'And...?' Squall asked, coaxing me on.
'And I'm starting to read thoughts. I know what your thinking right now Squall, I know what the darkness deep in your heart is saying,' I said, looking up at him, almost desperately.
Squall shook his head, as if in doubt, 'No, there's no way anyone could possibly understand that.... only I can and it only stays within my heart, Leona.'
'But it's true Squall!' I cried.
Suddenly Squall placed his hands over his ears and shook his head, instantly I felt my heartbreak in two, his pain and sorrow returning to me. He was confused, hurt and angry all at once and I couldn't decipher whether it was because of losing Rinoa or the fact I knew how he truly felt.
'NO! There's NO way you can know! You cant read my heart Leona!' He lashed out, his eyes shut tight.
'Yes! I can Squall! I can read it perfectly now! I know why your so sad!' I said, placing my hand on my chest, the weight of his emotions almost dizzying.
'Isn't it obvious?' He hissed, looking at me nastily, so nastily I was take a back by it, 'Yeah, you think I don't see everyone whispering about me? Saying 'oh, poor Squall, he's lost the love of his life' or 'oh once again it's Rinoa who need's to be saved' and it kills me Leona.'
'I know it does.... But I also know that's not the only thing that's killing you. I know what's really making you feel so terrible,' I said, feeling a bit relieved when Squalls emotions let up a bit. He was curious.... but protective of the darkness in his heart, 'Squall...... everyone has darkness in their hearts, be it from secrets or just painful experiences.... right now I can read yours, and if you don't believe me...... then I'll prove it to you.'
'NO!' Squall hissed again, reaching forward to grab me and most likely take me out of his office but I moved away and stood on the other side of his desk. He lunged across and grabbed me, making me scream, the two of us tumbling to the floor awkwardly. He was enraged and I could feel it, he was so embarrassed about his fears and doubts and sadness that he didn't even want me reading it..... and he'd do anything to stop it. I had to say it though, I knew if I did, he would come through and the darkness would at least be lifted a bit.
'Squall you didn't want to lose Rinoa!' I gasped, feeling his hand wrapping around my throat, it tightened but I wasn't afraid, 'You feel that you failed her by not being able to protect her! You feel useless and hated and cowardly but it's not your fault!' I practically rasped out the last little bit when suddenly Squalls grasp loosened and he let go... stumbling back and looking at his hands like he'd never seen them before.
'Leona...' He whispered softly, feelings of regret, sadness and shock permeating off of him and over to me, 'I.... I didn't mean to.. I was just- '
I held up my hand and took some deep breaths, 'No, it's ok..... I know you didn't want me to Squall, but I had to... you needed to see it for yourself. We're connected now...'
'I...' Squall stammered, flopping down into a chair, still completely chocked, 'When...... When you said it, it all finally hit me... it was like, I suddenly had come to terms with my emotions...it isn't my fault, what happened to Rinoa wasn't my fault....... However, I can't see how you were able to unlock them,' He said softly, looking up at me intriguingly.
'I don't know either.... and to be honest, normally I wouldn't have even attempted quite a thing, specially after seeing how angry it made you,' I said, sitting down in the chair beside him and turned to look at him, 'but... you know, I wasn't afraid, even when your hand tightly grasped my neck.... Because I knew you wouldn't and couldn't hurt me... because I was able to show you the truth. The light that is the truth now in your heart.'
Squall nodded and I knew he felt terrible for what he did, for one I could feel it and secondly, it was just obvious.
'You know Leona,' He said, standing up and crossing his arms, 'Maybe.... Maybe this is the beginning of those powers that were hidden so deep inside of you,' He said, as he walked around the room, turning his head to look at me through a strand of his thick, chocolate brown hair. I thought for a moment and closed my eyes, feeling older and far wiser than I really was..... Feeling as if I was a completely different person. I searched myself, inside, through body mind and soul, and right away, I knew the answer.
'Yes,' I said softly, opening my eyes again, feeling a warm glow around myself, 'I think your right.'
'I know I'm right, 'Squall said, nodding his head at me, 'Just looking at you now I know...... you've changed as well Leona, you've grown up immensely since the last time I saw you.... and while the times are different between our worlds... I think the three years you missed of your life here.... are catching up with you.'
I smiled and nodded, 'I think so too,' I stood up and headed for the door, Squall nodded as well and then looked down for a second.
'Hey Leona.'
I turned around, 'Yeah?'
'I.... Thanks,' He said, attempting a smile.
'Rinoa's ok Squall.... I'm sure she is, and with this new power I have, I'll do whatever I can to see if I can at least find her, even just the slightest hint of her emotions or thoughts. I'll tell you right away if I do... and then.. we'll find her, and kick whatever's ass is doing this.'
Squall chuckled and I walked over and hugged him.
'Yeah, we will,' He said, still grinning, and I could feel all the guilt, pain and sorrow lift from his heart. There was still some grief there...... but it was only natural, the woman he loved has been taken by some crazy, he had a right to feel that way. However, how he had felt was wrong.... and I was glad that, even though this new power was dizzying and tough, I was thankful I had received it. I nodded a final time and started to walk towards the double doors when Squall called out to me. I turned around and looked at him curiously.
'What is it Squall?'
'Here,' He said, walking over to me and attaching something to my arm. It was heavy, but beautiful.
'What is this?" I asked, looking at it. It looked something like a weapon.. Maybe some sort of a projectile one.....
'It was Rinoa's..... I want you to have it, use it to protect yourself,' He said, his eyes falling on the gorgeous golden wings that surrounded it, a smile spread across his lips and I could have swore his eyes became watery. I remember Rinoa always wearing an article of clothing with wings on them and smiled.
'I will.'
Squall nodded and turned around and walked back over to his desk. Just before I turned around to leave, I noticed a pair of red wings on the back of his vest and a wave of admiration for him flooded over me.
~*~
As I walked through the halls, back towards the training center, I started to get a headache. Ok, so I was really liking this whole idea of me having this interesting new power, and being far more mature and strong than I had been before, but why oh why did everyone had to feel so many different emotions at once? I wonder if there's an 'off' switch for this thing. I shook my head, feeling a little shaky from everyone's emotions in all of Balamb Garden barraging me at once and looked at the gorgeous weapon on my arm. I was intrigued by it and brought it up to my chest, hoping that through this maybe I would be able to contact Rinoa in some way with the aid of my new power......
'Hey Leona!'
I turned around to see Quistis walking towards me; her Save the Queen hooked to her hip. I groaned when instantly her emotions and thoughts wafted over me, but there were too many for me to focus on only hers so I just ignored it. I guess I had no problems reading Squalls because he and I had been alone in one area together... And in the Caf I don't think it had been all that strong. This power was cool, but totally weird.
'Hey Quisty, what's up?' I asked, rubbing my head.
'Nothing really, I was actually just heading to the training center to meet you,' She stopped in front of me and crossed her arms, smiling, 'Looks like I've caught you just on your way there.'
'Yeah.....' I said softly, my head now killing me.
'Hey, you ok?' Quisty asked, worryingly placing a hand on my arm.
'Yeah, just got a bit of a headache,' I confessed, deciding I'd tell her about my new found power later.
'Here, we'll go to doctor Kadowaki's and get you something for that,' She said, turning me around and walking me towards the medical center.
~ Leona.... Help me..... ~
I turned my head slightly to the side, the voice coming loud and clear and dulling out all the others.
'Quisty....... did you say something?' I asked, turning to her. She shook her head and looked at me, like I was on drugs or something.
'Leona, I don't think you're a hundred perce-'
'Shhh!' I hissed, suddenly holding up my hand, the voice coming again,' Someone's calling for me, Quisty,' I looked at her fearfully, 'and it sounds like Zell!' I said, turning around and running for the training center, Zell's pleas for help growing louder and louder inside my head. I'm coming, I said, replying to his pleas, hoping he head me. I turned the corner and bolted inside the training center, running through a small group of people, dimly hearing their thoughts and feeling their emotions, but Zell's were growing even stronger. He was in pain, and there was fear flowing through him. I ran faster, running as hard as my legs would take me. Suddenly I stopped dead in my tracks.... the voices turning to screams.
'Zell!' I screamed, bolting through the training center, ignoring everything that attacked me. Some weird looking vine monsters slapped at me with their vines, making deep cuts in my thighs but I kept running, ignoring the pain the best I could..... when the screaming suddenly stopped.
'Zell where are you!?' I screamed, holding my hands to my chest, looking around frantically. I had run through practically the entire place, even running out into the secret area and still had not found him. His thoughts and feelings had vanished as quickly as they had appeared and all I was left with was a dull ache in my chest and a throbbing headache. It was severely quiet in here... obviously I could not comprehend the monsters emotions or voices..... and at that point, I was very thankful for that. I focused hard, still trying to see if I could make a connection but I came up with nothing but an even worse headache. I screamed in frustration and fell to my knees, my frustration turning to sadness and I cried.
'Leona!'
I heard Quistis calling my name but I didn't respond. Now I truly understood Squall's feelings when he lost Rinoa. I had promised Zell I would protect him... and I failed to do that. I'm sorry Zell, I'm so sorry....
'Leona what's happened!' Quistis cried, dropping down in front of me and holding me at arms length, 'Answer me damn it!' She cried, shaking me a bit when I didn't reply.
'Zell's gone......' I whispered quietly.
'What do you mean 'gone' Leona?'
I stood up and wiped at my eyes with the back of my hand, 'He's gone Quistis. Whatever took Rinoa has now taken Zell.... It's all my fault, I should have stayed with him.'
'No,' Quistis said, 'if you had stayed with him you probably would have been taken too!' She said, and I felt her protectiveness..... I realized Quistis felt for me the same way an older sister does for a younger one.
'Your right,' I said, standing up and sniffling a little bit, 'We need to go see Squall and get the others together....... there's something I need to tell all of you,' I said, remembering what I had said to Squall. It would be hypocritical and wrong of me to feel this way after I gave Squall that long lecture. I can't afford to have darkness in my heart...... not when I'm supposed to be the bringer of light.
~*~
A/N: TAAA DAAA! Whew! Long chapter, ne? I LOVED writing this one.. And I think after all that crud that's been going on and the long wait; you guys really deserved a nice long chapter! The bad news is.. I wont be able to continue for a while.. I'm leaving for Scotland on June 29th and I wont be back till august sixth. Those of you who have been extremely faithful readers, I thank you so much, but I hope that you continue to be faithful and wait for me to update. I promise I will because I have big ideas for this fic and I truly mean it this time.
Thanks to everyone for all of their support through everything! Sorry for making such a fool of myself by caring so much about that flamer loser.
Have a great summer everyone!
Thanks!
-Dinchtbaby xx
~ = Outer thoughts from other people (not Leona's) ok guys?
Anyhoo, on with the fic!
~*~
'Ze- uh, Andrew, I don't have enough money for three large popcorns AND five orders of hotdogs..... I barely even have enough for a pack of Skittles!' I moaned, looking up at the price board for food at the movie theatre. How could I forget how much of a food whore this man was?
Zell pouted, looking rather silly, and hugged his stomach.
'But Leona...... Food,' He said, pointing anxiously to the popping popcorn behind the counter and the hotdogs roasting in little ovens, 'Hot dogs! Come on Leona! I haven't had a hot dog in ages! I think I'm going into Hot Dog denial syndrome..... I neeeeed one!'
I laughed, looking at Zell ridiculously and held out my money, 'Look Andrew! I only have two dollars! See? Two dollars! One large popcorn is THREE dollars and a hot dog alone is five seventy-five! Unless you can magically conjure up money, there's no way your getting a hot dog!' I said, sighing exasperatedly, 'I don't even think I can get my Skittles...'
Zell leaned in close to me and whispered in my ear, 'Do you think Chantal would lend us any money?'
I blinked, confused, 'Chantal....?'
'Yes Leona, you seem to have totally forgotten that I'm here too,' Chantal said, rolling her eyes at me. I laughed nervously and shyly rubbed the back of my head with my hand.
'Oh yeah... hey Chantal I wa-'
Chantal cut me off before I could continue.
'No! N-O Leona! I am not lending you money, I ALWAYS lend you money and you're terrible with paying it back! Just last week I bought you those flip-flops and you STILL haven't given me the money! Now you expect me to pay for your boyfriend's piggish delights? Nuh uh!' Chantal said, shaking her head.
'Piggish delights? Awe, since when am I a pig?' Zell muttered, confused.
'Well, you eat so many hot dogs, you're turning into one!' I pointed out teasingly, 'See? Your even getting a curly tail!' I giggled, reaching back and pinching Zell's butt cheek, something one honestly never gets bored of doing. Zell yelped and jumped a bit, his hand going back to rub his cheek.
'Ow, hey that hurt.. Tch, calling me a pig,' Zell mumbled, crossing his arms. I laughed and turned back to Chantal hopefully. The line was getting shorter and I didn't want us having a little scene once we get up to the counter.
'So whattya say Chantal?' I asked, giving her my biggest, cheesiest grin, 'I'll let ya borrow my PS2 along with Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy Ten and....' I leaned in closer, nudging Chantal cheekily, ' Devil May Cry one and two...then you can stare and drool at Dante all the live long day.'
'Deal,' Chantal said, grinning from ear to ear. I laughed and hugged her, thanking her as she gave me a ten-dollar bill. You gotta love friends for the fact that..... once you know their TRUE weaknesses.... It's so easy to get stuff out of them! Nah, I'm only kidding.... Just is funny when it's harmless stuff like drooling over polygonal, pixilated men... but then again... I turned my head and looked at Zell, smiling as he studied a costume of Shrek in a glass case. He looked torn between being scared and just amused.
'Hi, how may I help you?'
I spun around and smiled at the young woman behind the counter. She looked mean, bored and bitter ... must be bowel movements. I stifled a giggle, making that stupid snorting noise and regained my composure.
'Hi there! Just gimme a sec ok?' I asked, making the girl look more annoyed. I shrugged it off and called over Zell, 'Alright, what do you want again?'
Zell grinned (mmmm sexy grin) and looked about, as if trying to decide all over again what he wanted. I started to get a little impatient; realizing the girl behind the counter looked like she was about to explode, and as gently as possible, stepped on Zell's foot.
'OW! Great Hyne Leona you ARE abusive today!' He cried out, looking at me strangely. I cleared my throat and nodded my head towards the girl behind the counter, my cheeks looking a little flushed.
'Tch,' Zell said, shaking his head, muttering a low 'ow' every now and then, 'Um, could I get three large popcorns and five orders of hot dogs? Oh and, extra cheese if ya don't mind.'
The girl punched the numbers into the tally machine, 'Alright, three large popcorns, five hotdogs, extra cheese and..... What would you like to drink?'
'Uh...' Zell looked at me frantically; obviously unaware of the beverages we had here.
'He'll have a large Pepsi please,' I said, coming up closer to Zell. I could have sworn the girl rolled her eyes at us, obviously thinking Zell and I were complete fruit loops but meh, what can you do.
'Alright, so three large popcorns, five hotdogs, extra cheese and one large Pepsi?' Zell and I nodded, suddenly the girl raised her eyebrow at us, 'This IS for the two of you right?'
I opened my mouth, about to say yes when Zell beat me to it, anxiously reaching over to grab the already prepared food.
'Tch! Hell no! This is for me baby!' He said, the end of it slightly muffled from the hotdog being shoved into his mouth. I sighed and shook my head, well aware of how much of a food fetish my boyfriend obviously had but hey, he looked great so like hell I can complain!
'That comes to twenty-five dollars and 37 cents please.'
What's that noise kids? That's the sound of Leona's jaw dropping to the floor and breaking into a million pieces.
'WHAT!' I shrieked, unable to contain myself. I looked sadly at my now measly ten dollars and turned to Chantal who looked like she was about to blow a gasket, 'Hey Chantal you're my friend right....'
~*~
'I cant believe you talked me into lending you MORE money... with all the money I lend you, you'd think you'd GIVE me BOTH your Playstation's,' Chantal groaned for the five billionth time.
'Aw, thanks though Chantal, I feel nice and full now' Zell said, quite cheery and pleased with himself as he patted his smooth, muscular stomach.
'Cha, well because of you neither Leona or myself were able to get anything to eat... Let me explain my PERSONAL physics rule,' Chantal said, standing up, 'See this? This is my boot,' She said then suddenly grabbed Zell and turned him around, 'This is boot connecting with ass!'
'Ow!' Zell yelped, rubbing his, probably by now, bruised bum, 'Jeeze, you guys are so evil.... I've taken beatings before, but that was all in battles...... never by friends.. Or hell my girlfriend!' He said; looking rather disgruntled in my general direction.
'Aw, poor baby,' Chantal said then stretched and looked at me funny. I could understand why, during this entire time all I had done was sit in my chair... and look bitter. Oh yeah, Leona is bitter right now, more bitter than I've ever been in a while, more bit-
'EARTH TO LEONA!' Chantal cried, cutting off my thoughts as she whacked me with one of those movie magazines.
'What!!' I moaned, annoyed by the disturbance.
'You didn't answer my question!
'What question? I asked, finally standing up, my arm hooking around Zell's.
'How was the movie?' She asked, hooking her arm around mine as the three of us struggled to make it down the thin aisles.
I rolled my eyes, 'I don't know, someone was bitching about money in my ear through the entire thing,' I said dryly.
'Ohh! What jerk was doing that? I'll kick their ass!' Zell said, obviously getting revved up. I laughed nervously and patted his arm in an attempt to calm him down.
'Whoa there turbo, don't go all Schwarzenegger on me now, it's ok.... It was only Chantal.'
'Heeeeeey, ' Chantal hissed, slapping my arm just as I dumped two of the large popcorn cylinders into the garbage, 'I was not!
'You were too! And I'm not in the mood to argue over it right now so.... go... Suck a pineapple or something!' I said, crossing my arms, rather irritated.
'Suck a pineapple? Riiiiiiiight..... Ok well, I'm gonna go call my mom to come pick me up,' She said, walking over to the pay phones.
'You can't give us a ride?' I asked.
'Nope! I gotta go to Rogers tonight! My mom said she'd take me there right from here! I'll call you tonight ok? And Andrew! It was nice meeting you!' Chantal called before waving and disappearing into the crowd. Zell was looking around manically, a confused look on his face.
'Andrew? Who the heck's Andrew?' He muttered, scratching his head bewilderedly.
'Your alter-ego,' I said, grabbing his hand and leading him out of the movie theatre.
'I have an alter ego....?'
'Yes, you do, and so do I - I am known as Dorrito Woman,' I said dryly, 'and if we don't haul some serious Dorrito ass, we're going to miss our bus!'
'Dorrito Woman? Right, ok Leona, I get the woman part... but the Dorrito things just not clicking in, what the hells a dorrito?' Zell said, looking more and more confused. If we had been in an anime... he most likely would be swimming in a sweat drop right about now.
'I'll explain later,' I said, practically pulling Zell, the bus we needed starting to drive away from the stop. I let go of Zell's hand and started waving my arms, running towards the moving bus but it didn't stop. I cursed and growled through my teeth.
'Argh! We missed our bus!' I cried, grabbing Zell's shirt, 'Damn you public transit!' I turned around and started shaking my fist at the already gone bus and only ended up getting some disgruntled honks from passing cars.
'Tch, why don't we just walk in kitten?' Zell said, kissing my forehead and wrapping his arms around my waist, 'Man sugar, you get waaaaaay too worked up over the smallest things sometimes.'
'Shush you,' I said shyly, 'But still... it's a half hour walk,' I groaned, burying my face into Zell's chest, 'It'll be eleven o'clock by the time we get home.... And that's only if we're lucky! My parents come home at eleven thirty and if they know we've been out that late together they're gonna kill me!'
'Then we'll just make sure we'll get home in time, no?' Zell said, pulling away and taking my hand, the two of us starting to walk down the sidewalk. For the first little while the two of us didn't say anything, I think both of us were just focusing on the setting sun... the gorgeous gold's and yellows...... deep and light oranges... purples.. pinks.. reds.. deep reds.... Blood red.... the water, earth and sky tainted with blood.... Blood everywhere!
'Leona?'
I barely heard Zell's voice when everything started to spin, my vision become blurred, I couldn't hear any noise and then suddenly it cleared..... and all I could see was...
'No,' I heard myself whisper; my eyes not seeing what Zell or any normal person was, no, I was seeing another world...... A scorched, dark, blood stained world..... Zell's world.
And then like that, I was back on the street, noise returned and everything was normal.
'Leona?' Zell said, this time softer, his arms releasing some of their tight hold. I ran my hands through my hair nervously, shaking my head slowly back and forth, 'Leona, your shaking, what's wrong?" I heard Zell ask, the urgency rising in his voice.
'I'm ok....' I murmured, moving away and sitting down on a near by bench. Zell looked at me, concern radiating in his eyes, and sat down beside me. I took some deep breaths as his hand gently rubbed my back, eventually leaning my head on his shoulder.
'What was it, kitten?'
'We need to go back Zell,' I whispered softly, looking down at the ground.
'What do you mean go back? I'm sure everyone's ok Leona..... And besides, we don't know how to go back in the first place,' Zell said gently, softly pushing my hair back and planting a kiss on my forehead, 'everything's Ok.'
I stood up and started pacing in front of him, 'No Zell, everything ISNT ok. I just..... I think I just had a premonition,' I turned to Zell, desperation rising in my voice, 'We need to go back Zell, we've been so nonchalant but really, I fear for the worst.'
'Hey, Leona calm down ok sugar? You don't know..... I'm sure everyone's holding their own and until we can find a way back, all we can do is sit tight and sit this one out,' Zell explained, standing up and wrapping his arms around my waist.
'No, Zell.... we need to go, and we need to go now - everything's red..... Everything painted in blood,' I whispered, the last thing I heard was Zell's gasp and then after a bright flash of blue, everything went black.
~*~
'I think she's waking up.'
'God it's been ages since I've seen Leona..... Dr. Kadowaki said she was ok.'
'Well, let's hope she is.'
'How's Zell handling the news?'
'Ok.... I think he's still in shock - he hasn't left his dorm for the past couple days.'
....Days?
'Yeah, I. don't blame him.... A lot's happened since he's been gone..... I think he feels guilty.'
....What? What's happened? Where am I? Where's Zell?
'Maybe... Hey, I think she's waking up! Her eyes just fluttered a bit!'
'She was probably dreaming, Selphie.'
.....Selphie?
'No really! I think she's waking up! Come on Leona, hey wake up silly head!'
I groaned as my eyelids were suddenly pulled open, bright light spilling in. I blinked a couple times, my eyesight still pretty blurry.
'Ugnh..... Where...?' I moaned, shaking my head a bit, as if trying to shake away the killer headache I have. Where was the only comprehensible word I could get out before my mouth suddenly went numb again.
'Hey, don't move too much.... Your safe Leona.'
......Safe.
Once again I was thrown back into darkness before I could fully make out the figure leaning over me.
~*~
'Mmmm,' I moaned slightly as I turned over, hugging the pillow closer to me. The bed I was snoozing in was considerably comfy and the pillows were super fluffy. Still not quite sure where I am but hey, what does it matter? I'm partially awake and laying in an extremely comfy bed..... actually, a bed that seems very familiar...
'She looks funny when she sleeps.'
I heard a laugh and some clothes ruffle from movement.
'Yeah. She drools too.'
'That's sexy. That must drive you wild, eh Zell?'
There was a dull thud, like someone's arm had been punched.
'Tch, shaddup Seifer - we all know you drool like some crazed fan girl when she sees her hottie.'
'Your gonna get it for that one Dincht.'
Like hell I was going to be able to sleep through this. So thus, I decided to open my eyes.
'What the hell! Cant someone get some sleep around here!' I said groaned angrily, rubbing my eyes as I did so.
'Leona! Your awake!'
I recognized Zell's voice instantly and released an 'oomph' as I felt his muscular body totally glomp me.
'Zell?' I murmured; opening my eyes to see a head of spiky blonde hair beneath my neck and a tattooed face buried in my cleavage. Well, whatever floats his boat I thought, my hand reaching up to gently rub his cheek. He lifted his head and smiled that amazing grin of his and proceeded to cover me in kisses.
'Damn girl, I've been worried sick! You've been in a coma for nearly three weeks since we got back!' He said, pausing after every other word to kiss me again.
'Wha? We're back!' I cried, suddenly sitting up, Zell taking a face plant right into the mattress. I looked around the room, instantly recognizing it as the hospital wing in Balamb Garden. Here comes a killer case of Déjà vu.
'Good, your finally awake space cadet.'
I rolled my eyes as Seifer appeared in the doorway, grinning teasingly at me.
'Hello Mr. drool,' I said dryly. He scowled and then walked over to the bed, sitting down. I looked at him..... He looked.... Different. Confused by this, he obviously noticed and suddenly slapped my back, laughing loudly. I nearly coughed up a lung from the force of the hit.
'Hyne woman! You know, you disappear at some of the worst times, and you drive me up the wall but for once in my life, it's good to see you back - and usually, I don't feel that way about anyone.'
'Ha ha.... um.... Thanks,' I said, a little unsure of how to react. Any form of amiability from Seifer was odd. It either meant he wanted something, or he was making fun of me, 'Right, what's the catch?' I asked.
'Uh, simply being..... oh what's that word, I don't use it too often.. oh yeah!' He leaned in closer and grinned like a shark, 'friendly.'
'Pfft,' I said, pushing him away before I grabbed the pillow and chucked it at him, all playfully of course, 'Your yanking my chain!'
Seifer shrugged and nodded his head towards Zell, 'Nah, I'll leave any yanking of any chains between you two,' He wiggled his eyebrows suggestively and walked out of the room, laughing.
'He is such a doink, ' I said, lying back against Zell, my head in his lap.
'Ah, ya learn to love him.... he teases me like hell, no where near as bad as he used to, but for some reason I like the guy,' Zell said, lazily drawing circles on my tummy. I sighed contently and nodded my head, simply enjoying the fact I was back....
'Zell!' I cried, suddenly jumping up, not even noticing I wasn't wearing anything more than a flimsy hospital gown, 'What's going on here? Is everyone ok? Is that 'thing' here yet? Has anyone died! Ahhh tell me Zell! Stopped looking like such a stunned guppy and open your lips and SPEAK!' I cried, panic, excitement and anxiety tearing at me.
'Whoa! Slow down kitten! I can only answer so many questions with the time you've given me,' He said, holding his hand out. I took it and he sat me back down on the bed, 'yes, something's happened-'
'What!' I cried, cutting him off. He looked at me sternly, and I hushed up.
'Three years have passed while we've been gone-'
'Oh my god! Three years?!' I cried out again.
'Leona! Hyne, let me finish ok? I cant tell you anything if you keep cutting me off!' Zell said, obviously annoyed.
'Sorry,' I muttered softly, feeling bad.
'Hey, it's ok.... Just no more cutting me off, ok kitten?' He said, lifting my chin and smiling at me as I nodded, 'Alright...... Three years have passed. You were right when ya said time passes quicker here than in your world. Yes, some people have been killed..... And yes, the people of my world have been under attack from a new threat these past two years.'
'Do you know what it is?' I asked. Zell shook his head.
'I've been talking to Squall, and by the way, he looks a helluva lot different too, wait till you see. Anyways, I've been talking with him and the others, and they're still unsure of who or what's doing it..... but all the monsters - it seems there's a strong concentration of them growing near the old orphanage. Cid and Edea have been moved here, along with some of the orphans, but....'
'But what?' I asked, my hand grasping his arm with anxiety.
'But whatever's doing this... it's targeting children,' Zell said, sighing.
'No..... no way,' I said softly, 'why would it want children?'
'I don't know!' Zell said, obviously frustrated, 'it's so sick and just totally wrong... but, we've sent some SeeDs to the area, just some observation teams, and they've all been wiped out. Luckily, we were able to salvage one of the recordings they were able to make....'
Zell trailed off again, giving me a sinking feeling inside, 'what was on those tapes Zell?'
'The.. The children are,' He said tensely, running a hand through his hair. He looked at me, concern and.... fear in his eyes, 'But, they.... They were so deformed Leona - they looked a cross between some of the monsters we fight, like someone's been genetically modifying them, it's disgusting. And.. There's absolutely no life to their eyes at all.'
I felt sick to my stomach, 'Are they're.... young children?' I asked, almost terrified of the answer. Zell shook his head and I felt some relief fall over me.
'No, they seem to range between the preteen ages to teenagers,' Zell swallowed harshly and started to nervously crack his knuckles, 'some of our won students were on those recordings Leona. Students I've seen or talked to..... Devouring others,' Zell started to shake and I wrapped my arms around him, the two of us gently rocking back and forth.
'Hey..... We'll figure this out, we'll find who's doing this.... and we'll stop them,' I said, feeling more intent on succeeding in that than I ever had with anything in my life, 'I promise we'll stop this together and no more people will be hurt.'
'That's what I want to hear.'
I turned around to see Squall leaning in the doorway and my jaw nearly dropped to the floor. He had longer hair and wore a black vest. He had his usual pants and array of belts...... and that ever-daunting scar.... But he looked totally different. Put simply, he looked hot.
'Squall,' I managed, desperately trying to stop my gawk-age.
'Hey Leona... your looking much better,' He said softly, walking in and sitting down on the bed. I smiled as, once again; I slid a bit towards him from his weight shifting the mattress.
'Yeah, I was feeling good..... Until Zell told me what's been going on, 'I said, looking at Squall seriously, 'this is really happening? Some sick psycho is really using children? Kids nearly our age?' I asked; it was more of a rhetorical question. Squall picked up on it and only nodded to himself.
'Yeah... I'm glad Zell filled you in. Better you hearing it from him than me, I'm still a stranger to you.'
'No,' I said softly, leaning forward to hug Squall. I always thought hugging Squall would be an awkward thing, like he would push me away or something, but he didn't, in fact, it almost felt like he was truly welcoming it, 'your not a stranger to me Squall, and I have no doubt your equally as stressed out, scared and worried as anyone else here.'
'Yeah,' He said quietly, pulling away and standing up. I looked at him, concerned and he only stared back, as if searching me with his eyes and then nodded towards Zell and left.
'Wow... I mean, I noticed a change in Seifer..... but Squall-' I began but was cut off when Zell turned around and suddenly wrapped his arms around me. I hugged him back and kissed his cheek, 'Hey, you ok?'
'I don't know...... Look, I'm obviously going to be the first and only one to tell you, but it'll be awkward if you don't know this,' Zell said solemnly.
'What is it?' I asked, again, fear swelling up inside of me.
'Rinoa..... Rinoa was taken. We haven't gotten any word from her, we're just hoping she's only being held hostage..... And no experiments or whatever this sicko does for kicks, are being done on her.'
'No!' I cried, my hand covering my mouth, tears swelling up in my eyes, 'no, why would it want Rinoa?' I asked, my voice choking.
Zell sighed and placed his head in his hands, 'I don't know... a lot's happened Leona. Squall's still pretty shaken up.... he's pretty much gone back to being Mr. introvert. I'm surprised he allowed you to touch him, hell even speak to you.....'
'He's lonely,' I said, feeling something stir inside of me, as if I could feel how Squall felt..... And suddenly, I felt how Zell truly felt too. He was afraid of losing me, seeing me turned into one of those monsters, afraid of me dying..... Afraid he wont be able to prevent it..... the way Squall wasn't able to for Rinoa.
'Zell,' I said, taking his hand in mine and squeezing it, 'I'll always be here to protect you as you'll always be here to protect me,' I said, my other hand gently rubbing his cheek as I smiled encouragingly, 'Yes, things are looking pretty grim right now... but we'll pull through.'
'How do you know for sure?' Zell asked, doubt radiating in his voice. I didn't pay any attention to it.
'Because I just do, 'I said solidly.
~*~
After Zell's and my conversation, Zell left, muttering something about training. I nodded and sighed, feeling pretty lonely myself and decided to head to my old dorm. I threw on Zell's jacket that he had left behind for me and shuffled through the great hall of Balamb Garden clad in a hospital gown, Zell's jacket and slippers. Suddenly, I heard someone call my name from above. Ok, there's no way God or Hyne or whatever could sound like Selphie....
'Leona! Your awake!' Selphie cried, waving at me from the second floor hallway by the elevator. I looked up and chuckled to myself as her voice practically echoed through all of Balamb garden. Hey, it was a pretty large open space. Almost instantly the elevator made a delightful 'ping' and Selphie came bounding out of it. I laughed as she tackled me, the two of us falling to the floor, laughing.
'Yay! I'm so glad your back Leonie! I've missed you so much!' She cried, hugging me one more time before we both stood back up, ignoring the crowd around us. I laughed and scratched my forehead shyly.
'Yeah, hey I'm not that special,' I said, trying to straighten out my hospital gown as best I could. Selphie frowned and lightly punched my arm.
'Yes! You are Leona! Now then, everyone's in the Caf right now so we better go meet them!' She cried, hooking her arm around mine. I laughed but pulled in the other direction.
'Um, I have to go to my old Dorm Selphie!' I said, knowing I had some clothes there I could change into.
Selphie looked at me quizzically and then suddenly went 'ohhhhh!!' when she noticed my um, current attire, 'Okies! Um, I think your dorm was taken over by some of the orphans who managed to escape here.... But you can bunk with Irvine and me if ya like' She offered happily. I got a mental image of me trying to sleep while Irvine uh.... Put the 'moves' on Selphie and cringed.
'You know, it's a lovely, kind offer Selphie, but I think I'm gonna bunk with Zell,' I said. Selphie grinned cheekily and nudged my rib cage with her elbow.
'Oh yeah? That doesn't surprise me..... I bet you'll have lots of "fun",' She giggled, raising her eyebrows suggestively at me. I shook my head, chuckling, a slight blush creeping up on my cheeks, 'HA! See! Your bluuuuushing!'
'Ah, cut it out Selphie,' I said in protest, still smiling shyly then looked at her curiously, 'Um actually..... I know I had some clothes in my dorm, were they moved?'
'OH! Yeah I forgot! I have them! We'll stop by my dorm and pick them up! You can change there and then we'll boogie on down to the Caf!'
I laughed and hugged Selphie, 'Thanks Selph, that'll be awesome.'
She beamed and hugged me back, 'Ah, it's what I'm here for.'
~*~
'Leona? Ya ready?'
I heard Selphie's voice room the other side of her bedroom door, 'in a minute!' I called back, just zipping up the back of the mini skirt. I opened the door and stepped out, Selphie nodding in approval.
'Nice choice,' She said. We had tried to find my clothes but in the end they didn't turn up so Selphie just told me to raid her closet and come up with any outfit I wanted. I took one look at her packed closet and was in heaven. Good thing she and I were roughly the same size in waist and chest. However, I was a bit taller than her so I had to resort to wearing a skirt but hey, I looked pretty good in it if I do say so myself!
'I like very much!' Selphie said, walking circles around me. 'The black mini skirt looks uber cute with the platform hooch boots and the white top, with the flowing mesh sleeves, looks brilliant!' She slapped her hands together and then flashed me the peace sign, 'You get the Selphie Stamp of Approval!'
I laughed and felt my face flush a bit, 'Thanks.'
Selphie grinned cheekily again and I knew she was about to crack some sort of dirty joke, 'Zell's going to need a gazillion buckets when he sees you!'
'I doubt that very much, ' I said as the two of us walked out of her dorm and down the hallway towards the Caf, 'I don't look THAT good. The only thing he drools over, are hot dogs and trust me honey, for some reason, I just don't compare.'
Selphie waved it off and chuckled, 'But that's different. Zell's just an all around human garburator... he's a food whore. He really loves you and thinks your gorgeous, just hot dogs distract him a bit. Trust me, you do compare, and when it comes to being his woman, you win.'
'I don't think hotdogs stand much of a chance against that one, considering they are just food,' I said, shaking my head. Selphie nodded and the two of us walked into the Caf, Selphie giggling and telling me every time a passing guy stared at me. It really felt weird to know I looked that good. I mean; I am truly the every day fem-geek. I wear baggy t- shirts that either have anime characters or videogame characters on it and I'm always kicking around in a pair of jeans or something along those lines.
'Hey guys!' Selphie said, pulling me down into a chair, also successfully pulling me out of the evaluation of my wardrobe I was having (thank Hyne). I noticed Zell wasn't at the table but shrugged it off; he usually would go to train in the training facility if he was stressed out.
'Hey baby, 'Irvine said, lifting Selphie up and pulling her into his lap. The two shared a kiss and I felt a punch on my arm. I turned around to see Seifer munching away on a piece of toast, Quistis flipping through a copy of the newspaper.
'Did you just punch me?' I asked, raising my eyebrow at Seifer. He tried to look innocent but failed miserably and grinned, taking another bite out of his piece of toast. That man had changed. A lot. I shook my head and looked across the table, noticing a very grave looking Squall twirling his cold cereal with his spoon. I felt sorry for the poor guy, I knew how much he cared for Rinoa, as much as I care for Zell.... must be so hard for him.
'Hey you, why are you ogling at Squall? Is he your new drool toy when Zell's not available?' Seifer teased, smirking at me. I rolled my eyes and punched him in the arm, so hard he actually muttered an 'ow' and rubbed it.
I turned to him and grinned, feeling totally satisfied, 'You know, your like one of those stress balls, I can beat you up as much as I like, and feel so much better. Hearing you actually say ouch by being decked by me... has totally made my day,' I said, grinning. Seifer muttered something along the lines of 'Ice Bitch' under his breath, which only made my grin broaden. Suddenly though, I heard his voice in my head... he was saying something but I couldn't understand it.... but I felt it. He felt worried, concerned.... for me?
'So Leona, what do you say we get some training in later on today hm?' Quistis asked, startling me a bit. I guess I had zoned out. She put down her paper to take a sip from her coffee. She grasped the mug with two hands, her bright blue eyes staring at me through her glasses above the mug. She looked older and even more sophisticated than the last time I saw her... Things really had changed, with everyone, except maybe Selphie and Irvine. Besides looking older, the two actually looked and acted the same.
'Sure, I'm up for that,' I said, surprised when a lunch lady placed a plate of food down in front of me. I thanked her, a little confused. Quistis nodded and went back to looking at the paper. Again..... I felt something, something like a combination between admiration.... And a trace of fear.... But I couldn't pin point the emotion exactly. Why was I feeling this in the first place? It wasn't my emotion that was for sure... it couldn't be Quistis' could it?
'We ordered you some breakfast. Eat up and meet Quistis and I in the training center in two hours,' Squall said, his spoon clattering in the bowl as he dropped it completely taking me out of my thoughts. He was up and gone out of the Caf before I even felt or could say anything.
'This looks good,' I said to no one in particular and started to munch away on some toast with jam, deciding to try some of my sausages in a bit. As I ate, I thought about what was going on. Why did it seem like I was reading everyone's emotions? Even picking up on some words at times... it was just too weird. I wasn't a mind reader; I knew that for sure. But.... Why was it every time I looked at these people, I felt.... I felt so protective? This warm feeling encompasses me and all I can think about is how much I don't want anything to happen to them....
'Hey Leona? You ok?' Selphie asked, placing a hand on my arm. I smiled and nodded my head.
'Yeah, I'll be ok Selphie.'
'You looked pretty out of it there... something on your mind?'
'Everyone and everything,' I said, deciding I really needed to talk to Zell and maybe find Edea. Perhaps she would be able to help me..... I doubted very much I'd be able t speak with Shiva again. I stood up and left the Caf, feeling bad for just leaving all that food on my plate but I needed to talk to Zell. I walked to his dorm and knocked on the door for nearly fifteen minutes and got no answer.
'He must still be at the training center,' I murmured, turning around and walking towards the training center. I glanced at my watch, making sure I was ok on time. I was supposed to meet Squall and Quisty in about an hour and forty-five minutes.... I had loads of time, but I made sure I wasn't risking it and started to jog. I made it to the training center in no time but fund myself facing a bit of a roadblock. I had no weapons, no items and no powers equipped with me.... so if I went in there just as I am, I would so be the toast I ate this morning.
'Better go find weapons,' I said, turning around and jogging to the elevator. I knew Squall probably had some up in his office and knowing him, he was probably there right now. I pressed the third floor button and waited patiently as the lift rose. There was a delightful 'ping' and the doors smoothly slid open. I walked towards the large wooden, double doors and knocked. I heard Squalls rough voice say 'come in' and turned one of the knobs. Right when I opened the door, a wave of pain and deep sorrow flooded through my body. It obviously wasn't mine... it was Squalls.
'Squall,' I said softly before I collapsed onto my knees. Was Squall's pain and sadness truly this deep? This harsh? I could barely stand from the weight of it.... why was I feeling this?
'Leona!' Squall said, standing up and rushing over to me, I felt the emotions change a little, the deep sorrow and pain still there, but some of it replaced with worry. Squall helped me up and sat me down in one of the chairs. He kneeled in front of me, pulling off a glove from his hand and pressing it to my forehead.
'What's wrong Leona? You've gone pale as a ghost.....'
'Squall,' I said softly, deciding if there's anyone I should tell about this, it should be Squall, 'I've.... Ever since I woke up in the hospital wing... I've been feeling and reading peoples emotions.'
'What do you mean?' He asked, crossing his arms and leaning against the desk, a look of concern spreading across his handsome features.
'I mean, I feel other peoples emotions without wanting to..... It just.... happens. As the day has been progressing it's been getting more and more.. Powerful I guess you could say,' I explained, nervously running a hand through my hair.
Squall suddenly looked a little uncomfortable. Instantly I read his feelings and felt what he felt.
'Yes Squall, I can feel your pain..... It's immense.... That's why I collapsed,' I confessed softly. Squall looked torn between shocked and embarrassed.
'I.... How?' He stuttered.
'I don't know,' I said, cracking my knuckles nervously, ' It's like.... Ever since I've come back, this has started happening. I swear by the minute it's getting more powerful, I just read your emotions in a second. As we speak I can feel what your feeling..... and...' I trailed off, a little shy to say what I was about to say.
'And...?' Squall asked, coaxing me on.
'And I'm starting to read thoughts. I know what your thinking right now Squall, I know what the darkness deep in your heart is saying,' I said, looking up at him, almost desperately.
Squall shook his head, as if in doubt, 'No, there's no way anyone could possibly understand that.... only I can and it only stays within my heart, Leona.'
'But it's true Squall!' I cried.
Suddenly Squall placed his hands over his ears and shook his head, instantly I felt my heartbreak in two, his pain and sorrow returning to me. He was confused, hurt and angry all at once and I couldn't decipher whether it was because of losing Rinoa or the fact I knew how he truly felt.
'NO! There's NO way you can know! You cant read my heart Leona!' He lashed out, his eyes shut tight.
'Yes! I can Squall! I can read it perfectly now! I know why your so sad!' I said, placing my hand on my chest, the weight of his emotions almost dizzying.
'Isn't it obvious?' He hissed, looking at me nastily, so nastily I was take a back by it, 'Yeah, you think I don't see everyone whispering about me? Saying 'oh, poor Squall, he's lost the love of his life' or 'oh once again it's Rinoa who need's to be saved' and it kills me Leona.'
'I know it does.... But I also know that's not the only thing that's killing you. I know what's really making you feel so terrible,' I said, feeling a bit relieved when Squalls emotions let up a bit. He was curious.... but protective of the darkness in his heart, 'Squall...... everyone has darkness in their hearts, be it from secrets or just painful experiences.... right now I can read yours, and if you don't believe me...... then I'll prove it to you.'
'NO!' Squall hissed again, reaching forward to grab me and most likely take me out of his office but I moved away and stood on the other side of his desk. He lunged across and grabbed me, making me scream, the two of us tumbling to the floor awkwardly. He was enraged and I could feel it, he was so embarrassed about his fears and doubts and sadness that he didn't even want me reading it..... and he'd do anything to stop it. I had to say it though, I knew if I did, he would come through and the darkness would at least be lifted a bit.
'Squall you didn't want to lose Rinoa!' I gasped, feeling his hand wrapping around my throat, it tightened but I wasn't afraid, 'You feel that you failed her by not being able to protect her! You feel useless and hated and cowardly but it's not your fault!' I practically rasped out the last little bit when suddenly Squalls grasp loosened and he let go... stumbling back and looking at his hands like he'd never seen them before.
'Leona...' He whispered softly, feelings of regret, sadness and shock permeating off of him and over to me, 'I.... I didn't mean to.. I was just- '
I held up my hand and took some deep breaths, 'No, it's ok..... I know you didn't want me to Squall, but I had to... you needed to see it for yourself. We're connected now...'
'I...' Squall stammered, flopping down into a chair, still completely chocked, 'When...... When you said it, it all finally hit me... it was like, I suddenly had come to terms with my emotions...it isn't my fault, what happened to Rinoa wasn't my fault....... However, I can't see how you were able to unlock them,' He said softly, looking up at me intriguingly.
'I don't know either.... and to be honest, normally I wouldn't have even attempted quite a thing, specially after seeing how angry it made you,' I said, sitting down in the chair beside him and turned to look at him, 'but... you know, I wasn't afraid, even when your hand tightly grasped my neck.... Because I knew you wouldn't and couldn't hurt me... because I was able to show you the truth. The light that is the truth now in your heart.'
Squall nodded and I knew he felt terrible for what he did, for one I could feel it and secondly, it was just obvious.
'You know Leona,' He said, standing up and crossing his arms, 'Maybe.... Maybe this is the beginning of those powers that were hidden so deep inside of you,' He said, as he walked around the room, turning his head to look at me through a strand of his thick, chocolate brown hair. I thought for a moment and closed my eyes, feeling older and far wiser than I really was..... Feeling as if I was a completely different person. I searched myself, inside, through body mind and soul, and right away, I knew the answer.
'Yes,' I said softly, opening my eyes again, feeling a warm glow around myself, 'I think your right.'
'I know I'm right, 'Squall said, nodding his head at me, 'Just looking at you now I know...... you've changed as well Leona, you've grown up immensely since the last time I saw you.... and while the times are different between our worlds... I think the three years you missed of your life here.... are catching up with you.'
I smiled and nodded, 'I think so too,' I stood up and headed for the door, Squall nodded as well and then looked down for a second.
'Hey Leona.'
I turned around, 'Yeah?'
'I.... Thanks,' He said, attempting a smile.
'Rinoa's ok Squall.... I'm sure she is, and with this new power I have, I'll do whatever I can to see if I can at least find her, even just the slightest hint of her emotions or thoughts. I'll tell you right away if I do... and then.. we'll find her, and kick whatever's ass is doing this.'
Squall chuckled and I walked over and hugged him.
'Yeah, we will,' He said, still grinning, and I could feel all the guilt, pain and sorrow lift from his heart. There was still some grief there...... but it was only natural, the woman he loved has been taken by some crazy, he had a right to feel that way. However, how he had felt was wrong.... and I was glad that, even though this new power was dizzying and tough, I was thankful I had received it. I nodded a final time and started to walk towards the double doors when Squall called out to me. I turned around and looked at him curiously.
'What is it Squall?'
'Here,' He said, walking over to me and attaching something to my arm. It was heavy, but beautiful.
'What is this?" I asked, looking at it. It looked something like a weapon.. Maybe some sort of a projectile one.....
'It was Rinoa's..... I want you to have it, use it to protect yourself,' He said, his eyes falling on the gorgeous golden wings that surrounded it, a smile spread across his lips and I could have swore his eyes became watery. I remember Rinoa always wearing an article of clothing with wings on them and smiled.
'I will.'
Squall nodded and turned around and walked back over to his desk. Just before I turned around to leave, I noticed a pair of red wings on the back of his vest and a wave of admiration for him flooded over me.
~*~
As I walked through the halls, back towards the training center, I started to get a headache. Ok, so I was really liking this whole idea of me having this interesting new power, and being far more mature and strong than I had been before, but why oh why did everyone had to feel so many different emotions at once? I wonder if there's an 'off' switch for this thing. I shook my head, feeling a little shaky from everyone's emotions in all of Balamb Garden barraging me at once and looked at the gorgeous weapon on my arm. I was intrigued by it and brought it up to my chest, hoping that through this maybe I would be able to contact Rinoa in some way with the aid of my new power......
'Hey Leona!'
I turned around to see Quistis walking towards me; her Save the Queen hooked to her hip. I groaned when instantly her emotions and thoughts wafted over me, but there were too many for me to focus on only hers so I just ignored it. I guess I had no problems reading Squalls because he and I had been alone in one area together... And in the Caf I don't think it had been all that strong. This power was cool, but totally weird.
'Hey Quisty, what's up?' I asked, rubbing my head.
'Nothing really, I was actually just heading to the training center to meet you,' She stopped in front of me and crossed her arms, smiling, 'Looks like I've caught you just on your way there.'
'Yeah.....' I said softly, my head now killing me.
'Hey, you ok?' Quisty asked, worryingly placing a hand on my arm.
'Yeah, just got a bit of a headache,' I confessed, deciding I'd tell her about my new found power later.
'Here, we'll go to doctor Kadowaki's and get you something for that,' She said, turning me around and walking me towards the medical center.
~ Leona.... Help me..... ~
I turned my head slightly to the side, the voice coming loud and clear and dulling out all the others.
'Quisty....... did you say something?' I asked, turning to her. She shook her head and looked at me, like I was on drugs or something.
'Leona, I don't think you're a hundred perce-'
'Shhh!' I hissed, suddenly holding up my hand, the voice coming again,' Someone's calling for me, Quisty,' I looked at her fearfully, 'and it sounds like Zell!' I said, turning around and running for the training center, Zell's pleas for help growing louder and louder inside my head. I'm coming, I said, replying to his pleas, hoping he head me. I turned the corner and bolted inside the training center, running through a small group of people, dimly hearing their thoughts and feeling their emotions, but Zell's were growing even stronger. He was in pain, and there was fear flowing through him. I ran faster, running as hard as my legs would take me. Suddenly I stopped dead in my tracks.... the voices turning to screams.
'Zell!' I screamed, bolting through the training center, ignoring everything that attacked me. Some weird looking vine monsters slapped at me with their vines, making deep cuts in my thighs but I kept running, ignoring the pain the best I could..... when the screaming suddenly stopped.
'Zell where are you!?' I screamed, holding my hands to my chest, looking around frantically. I had run through practically the entire place, even running out into the secret area and still had not found him. His thoughts and feelings had vanished as quickly as they had appeared and all I was left with was a dull ache in my chest and a throbbing headache. It was severely quiet in here... obviously I could not comprehend the monsters emotions or voices..... and at that point, I was very thankful for that. I focused hard, still trying to see if I could make a connection but I came up with nothing but an even worse headache. I screamed in frustration and fell to my knees, my frustration turning to sadness and I cried.
'Leona!'
I heard Quistis calling my name but I didn't respond. Now I truly understood Squall's feelings when he lost Rinoa. I had promised Zell I would protect him... and I failed to do that. I'm sorry Zell, I'm so sorry....
'Leona what's happened!' Quistis cried, dropping down in front of me and holding me at arms length, 'Answer me damn it!' She cried, shaking me a bit when I didn't reply.
'Zell's gone......' I whispered quietly.
'What do you mean 'gone' Leona?'
I stood up and wiped at my eyes with the back of my hand, 'He's gone Quistis. Whatever took Rinoa has now taken Zell.... It's all my fault, I should have stayed with him.'
'No,' Quistis said, 'if you had stayed with him you probably would have been taken too!' She said, and I felt her protectiveness..... I realized Quistis felt for me the same way an older sister does for a younger one.
'Your right,' I said, standing up and sniffling a little bit, 'We need to go see Squall and get the others together....... there's something I need to tell all of you,' I said, remembering what I had said to Squall. It would be hypocritical and wrong of me to feel this way after I gave Squall that long lecture. I can't afford to have darkness in my heart...... not when I'm supposed to be the bringer of light.
~*~
A/N: TAAA DAAA! Whew! Long chapter, ne? I LOVED writing this one.. And I think after all that crud that's been going on and the long wait; you guys really deserved a nice long chapter! The bad news is.. I wont be able to continue for a while.. I'm leaving for Scotland on June 29th and I wont be back till august sixth. Those of you who have been extremely faithful readers, I thank you so much, but I hope that you continue to be faithful and wait for me to update. I promise I will because I have big ideas for this fic and I truly mean it this time.
Thanks to everyone for all of their support through everything! Sorry for making such a fool of myself by caring so much about that flamer loser.
Have a great summer everyone!
Thanks!
-Dinchtbaby xx