AUTHOR'S NOTE: Nearly had to leave this chapter til tomorrow cos ff.net was 'overloaded'.. hmm - well, hope you like it!! Next chapter will spawn LOTS of wonderful turmoil and jealousy, you'll love it! ^.^
*sniff* as you'll notice, I changed my username cos it had a damn '6' put behind it. Oh well, such is life.
Ya ready for Rikku's big 'uh-oh!'? it's a major turning point in the story - wait and see what ensues! Hope you like it!
Anyways, big hugs and kisses.. (and a fresh round of Auronite dubbing for all those that missed out! *tosses them their complimentary Auron plushies*) to:
Blurry - Mush & jealousy abound next chapter my friend, just for you ^.~
AFTERMATH: Chaotic Wind - the questions you posed where deliberately left unanswered sweetie, I'm not that ignorant of Braska and Jecht! They're all revealed in the next chapter anyway. Patience patience ^.^
Ruki The Sake Fairy - *pout* I know the last chappy was short, but I said that, ne? I wasn't feeling very well anyways - and anymore would have ruined this chapter. Where's everybody's faith in me?? Anyways, ta for reviewing bella! *mwah*
DracusXero - Someone's enjoying their Auron plushie! ^.^ Hehe, you can't blame Auron for not thinking of the way out sooner though - imagine if it were you in the situation!! Man.. I know I wouldn't think like he did (even though I wrote the thing! XD)!
Arcander - tis okay sweetie! *pettles* Auron's leg will be all better soon! ^.^ He's a big tough boy ne? ^.^
cool_kitsune - a threat huh? that;s kinda kewl.. someone actually likes my ficcy enough to threaten me if I don't continue! Thankies! ^____^
Rinny Leonhart / Rikku - See, I dubbed you an Auronite this time! ^.^ Aren't I nice? ^.^ Jealousy is next chapter - guarenteed.
Jay - You're right, if Auron did keep acting like such an ass then he'd definately be in trouble.. but hmm, I dun think it'll last - be sure to read next chapter!
*blergh* I'm lacking energy atm, so sorry if my thank you's where kinda lame *yawns* Now I know how Rikku must feel!
Enjoy the chapter! Especially the end!! ^.^ -Berry x
***********************************************************************
The Power of Change
A Rikku and Auron romance
***********************************************************************
Chapter Twenty-one: 'Unwelcome Here'
***********************************************************************
Let's escape into vividness toward the direction of despair
running out on everything that is painful
escaping with you
Toward the sweet paradise where decadence rules
in the midst of a choking fragrance
close your eyes, embrace me...
~"Perfect Garden" by Schwarz Stein (translation)~
***********************************************************************
Two days had passed since the weary guardians had left the spot on which they'd fallen. Now, after all that time they'd finally reached the base of the cliff which led to Macalania Temple.
Having long since lost the energy to express their dismay at the towering incline that marred the path to their final haven - due to the unspeakable fatigue they were experiencing - both travelers merely let out shaky sighs.
"We... we have to climb that, huh." Rikku murmured, wanting so badly to just drop on the spot and disappear. Despite Auron's injury and state of health, the Al Bhed was not coping nearly as well as he was.
"I'm afraid so. Come, let us be done with this."
"O-Okay... but where do we start?"
The first meter of the vertical traverse was smooth stone - worn down from the rare occasions when the lake had melted and risen during the warmer months - and thus rendered the first stage of the climb already quite difficult. Auron though, composed as always, was undeterred by this, walking up to behind Rikku and solving the problem with a few words.
"I'll give you a boost."
She shivered gently as his warm breath tickled her ear, quickly calming her beating heart which had kicked up its pace a few notches due to his standing so close. Lifting her left leg, she placed it firmly in the cup of his laced hands and looked up towards the top of the cliff.
"You ready? One, two, THREE." Auron grunted with the exertion such a simple task had required of him in his current drained state - watching as the petit Al Bhed shot up past the eroded area and caught hold of the pebbled wall above it with trembling fingers.
For a moment her legs scraped uselessly at the smoothed rock, searching for a foothold amongst it all - and when she eventually found a compromising position in which to wait for Auron's traverse, she was breathing heavily.
"How are you going to get up?" she managed to splutter out after a moment.
"Like this." he answered, leaning his full weight on the uninjured leg and using what energy he'd managed to reserve for the occasion to slam his Kotetsu into the unyielding rock face. The weapon made a horrible grinding sound as its thick hardy blade pierced the surface and sunk within the tight confine, surprising Rikku at the power that the dark guardian had put behind it.
"That's amazing... I had no idea you had that kind of energy..."
"There's a lot of things you don't know about me." Auron simply stated - causing Rikku to blush lightly and attempt to push the attraction she felt towards him back under the surface where she'd vainly tried to banish it for some time.
Being somewhat taller then the Al Bhed, the boost required to reach the place where she currently resided was somewhat minimal in comparison to what he'd previously given her, so with a simple push-off from the embedded blade Auron's fingers managed to grasp onto the rough surface of the rock face and pull himself up, his features trying to mask the pain his injured leg was causing him as it dragged behind.
Rikku watched in fascination as his muscular arms tensed with the use of the strength in them to not only reach her, but also to hold his weight as he lent down and yanked his Kotetsu free with a shower of sparks.
She wished they could be somewhere else, standing together, just the two of them... and she would feel those strong arms hold her safely against his chest and...
'Waa! What am I thinking?!' She fumed silently, 'this is neither the time nor the place - I'm just delusional from lack of sleep!'
Auron grasped her shoulder briefly, snapping her attention back to the present. "You go first; I'll watch your back so you don't fall."
"Okay. Thank you." Rikku felt a warm rush through her body at his attempts to ensure her safety, even during a time when he was as drained as she.
She wished she could show him just how grateful she was...
Carefully turning on the spot, the pretty Al Bhed began to traverse the cliff - each foothold examined precariously slow before moving onto the next. Neither guardian wanted to risk the fall onto the frozen lake below.
Auron was silent behind her, save for his harsh breathing and occasional gasp of pain when his leg came in contact with the rock face. From the sounds of it he was once again relying heavily on the strength in his arms to 'drag' him to the top - Rikku guessed this was because it was extremely difficult climbing with one leg - how she wished she had more energy so she could help him to the top!
Occasionally one of the guardians would lose their footing slightly and they would both get a terrible fright, but other then this and threat of not finding the energy to make the next step - they managed to make it to the top exhausted but in one piece.
Lying on snow then, icy flakes cascading down upon them from the thinning blizzard, Auron and Rikku felt sheer joy and relief in seeing Macalania Temple looming at the end of the path ahead.
"We're almost there. Let's go." The dark guardian intoned, dragging himself to his feet with help from his sword and brushing his coat off before reaching down a hand to the Al Bhed. She accepted with a warm smile, holding it a little longer then was necessary and causing Auron to blush a little despite the frown that formed.
The wind blew fiercely across the narrow path to the temple, making the short trek quite dangerous as they trudged forward. Rikku was staggering quite frequently as the minutes passed - obviously having exhausted the last of her energy and now relying on willpower alone. Countless times the dark guardian found himself reaching forward to steady her or take hold of her arm to prevent her from falling over.
Then they were at the foot of the giant gilded gates of the temple, facing a sour looking Guado who barred their path.
"State you business." He demanded in a harsh tone, uncaring for their desperate state.
"We are two of Lord Braska's guardians" Auron stated weakly, his Kotetsu buckling about under him as his grip faltered slightly.
"Where is the summoner? You should be by his side at all times, fool." The Guado growled, eyes flashing in annoyance.
"Please," Rikku pleaded quietly, "We fell into a precipice on the way here and so got separated. Braska and his other guardian Jecht are probably still back there looking for us, but because of the blizzard we were unable to signal to them in any way."
"Why should I believe you?" He sneered horribly, shifting his eyes between the two travelers.
"Enough talk!" Auron broke in roughly, fixing his unnerving gaze on the Guado guard. "You will let us through immediately or we'll have no choice but to force our way in and report you for holding up a summoner's entourage. Now move aside!"
The guard paled a little at his words, moving slightly as if to let them through - but at the last moment he barred their path again.
"Halt!" He ordered loudly, his eyes narrowing as he studied Rikku a little closer. After a moment he gaped and took a step back, his eyes widening "She - she's an Al Bhed!"
"So what?" Rikku fumed. "That doesn't make me any less human."
"On Lord Braska's decision she was made one of his guardians. Neither you or I would have any say over whether it is appropriate or not."
"Preposterous!!" He growled, "We will not have an Al Bhed in our holy Temple of Yevon!! Turn away and leave immediately!"
"Guindle," came a deep voice from inside the temple at that moment, interrupting the heated exchange. "Open up please."
"Yes sir!" was the guard's immediate reply. With the click of a switch the gilded double doors parted to reveal a middle-aged Guado dressed in lavish robes who, with piercing blue eyes cast a stern look over the run-down guardian's.
"Auron and Rikku, I presume. We've been expecting you. Where is summoner Braska?"
After explaining again what had happened, the robed Guado - who was a priest of the temple - ushered them both in with a smile.
"Forgive Guindle, the lad's only been a guard at this temple for a short time since he finished his initial training - he's still very much head-strong and unyielding."
Auron nodded, speaking up quickly when the Guado had finished. 'If I may ask... what are we to do about Lord Braska and Jecht? Neither Rikku nor I have the strength to trek back and get them now."
"Of course, of course!" the priest smiled. "A team of my men are being set up to retrieve them as we speak. Meanwhile, I suggest that Rikku get some sleep - as should you once we've healed your injury."
"Thank you!" the Al Bhed spoke gratefully, already feeling better in the warmer environment. "It will be so nice to see Jecht and uncle Braska again!"
Auron was in the midst of nodding in agreement when he froze, his eyes narrowing.
"What did you just say??!"
***********************************************************************
©Erica Runge, 5th of August, 2003. All characters, etc ©Squaresoft and FFX. ©Schwarz Stein.
*sniff* as you'll notice, I changed my username cos it had a damn '6' put behind it. Oh well, such is life.
Ya ready for Rikku's big 'uh-oh!'? it's a major turning point in the story - wait and see what ensues! Hope you like it!
Anyways, big hugs and kisses.. (and a fresh round of Auronite dubbing for all those that missed out! *tosses them their complimentary Auron plushies*) to:
Blurry - Mush & jealousy abound next chapter my friend, just for you ^.~
AFTERMATH: Chaotic Wind - the questions you posed where deliberately left unanswered sweetie, I'm not that ignorant of Braska and Jecht! They're all revealed in the next chapter anyway. Patience patience ^.^
Ruki The Sake Fairy - *pout* I know the last chappy was short, but I said that, ne? I wasn't feeling very well anyways - and anymore would have ruined this chapter. Where's everybody's faith in me?? Anyways, ta for reviewing bella! *mwah*
DracusXero - Someone's enjoying their Auron plushie! ^.^ Hehe, you can't blame Auron for not thinking of the way out sooner though - imagine if it were you in the situation!! Man.. I know I wouldn't think like he did (even though I wrote the thing! XD)!
Arcander - tis okay sweetie! *pettles* Auron's leg will be all better soon! ^.^ He's a big tough boy ne? ^.^
cool_kitsune - a threat huh? that;s kinda kewl.. someone actually likes my ficcy enough to threaten me if I don't continue! Thankies! ^____^
Rinny Leonhart / Rikku - See, I dubbed you an Auronite this time! ^.^ Aren't I nice? ^.^ Jealousy is next chapter - guarenteed.
Jay - You're right, if Auron did keep acting like such an ass then he'd definately be in trouble.. but hmm, I dun think it'll last - be sure to read next chapter!
*blergh* I'm lacking energy atm, so sorry if my thank you's where kinda lame *yawns* Now I know how Rikku must feel!
Enjoy the chapter! Especially the end!! ^.^ -Berry x
***********************************************************************
The Power of Change
A Rikku and Auron romance
***********************************************************************
Chapter Twenty-one: 'Unwelcome Here'
***********************************************************************
Let's escape into vividness toward the direction of despair
running out on everything that is painful
escaping with you
Toward the sweet paradise where decadence rules
in the midst of a choking fragrance
close your eyes, embrace me...
~"Perfect Garden" by Schwarz Stein (translation)~
***********************************************************************
Two days had passed since the weary guardians had left the spot on which they'd fallen. Now, after all that time they'd finally reached the base of the cliff which led to Macalania Temple.
Having long since lost the energy to express their dismay at the towering incline that marred the path to their final haven - due to the unspeakable fatigue they were experiencing - both travelers merely let out shaky sighs.
"We... we have to climb that, huh." Rikku murmured, wanting so badly to just drop on the spot and disappear. Despite Auron's injury and state of health, the Al Bhed was not coping nearly as well as he was.
"I'm afraid so. Come, let us be done with this."
"O-Okay... but where do we start?"
The first meter of the vertical traverse was smooth stone - worn down from the rare occasions when the lake had melted and risen during the warmer months - and thus rendered the first stage of the climb already quite difficult. Auron though, composed as always, was undeterred by this, walking up to behind Rikku and solving the problem with a few words.
"I'll give you a boost."
She shivered gently as his warm breath tickled her ear, quickly calming her beating heart which had kicked up its pace a few notches due to his standing so close. Lifting her left leg, she placed it firmly in the cup of his laced hands and looked up towards the top of the cliff.
"You ready? One, two, THREE." Auron grunted with the exertion such a simple task had required of him in his current drained state - watching as the petit Al Bhed shot up past the eroded area and caught hold of the pebbled wall above it with trembling fingers.
For a moment her legs scraped uselessly at the smoothed rock, searching for a foothold amongst it all - and when she eventually found a compromising position in which to wait for Auron's traverse, she was breathing heavily.
"How are you going to get up?" she managed to splutter out after a moment.
"Like this." he answered, leaning his full weight on the uninjured leg and using what energy he'd managed to reserve for the occasion to slam his Kotetsu into the unyielding rock face. The weapon made a horrible grinding sound as its thick hardy blade pierced the surface and sunk within the tight confine, surprising Rikku at the power that the dark guardian had put behind it.
"That's amazing... I had no idea you had that kind of energy..."
"There's a lot of things you don't know about me." Auron simply stated - causing Rikku to blush lightly and attempt to push the attraction she felt towards him back under the surface where she'd vainly tried to banish it for some time.
Being somewhat taller then the Al Bhed, the boost required to reach the place where she currently resided was somewhat minimal in comparison to what he'd previously given her, so with a simple push-off from the embedded blade Auron's fingers managed to grasp onto the rough surface of the rock face and pull himself up, his features trying to mask the pain his injured leg was causing him as it dragged behind.
Rikku watched in fascination as his muscular arms tensed with the use of the strength in them to not only reach her, but also to hold his weight as he lent down and yanked his Kotetsu free with a shower of sparks.
She wished they could be somewhere else, standing together, just the two of them... and she would feel those strong arms hold her safely against his chest and...
'Waa! What am I thinking?!' She fumed silently, 'this is neither the time nor the place - I'm just delusional from lack of sleep!'
Auron grasped her shoulder briefly, snapping her attention back to the present. "You go first; I'll watch your back so you don't fall."
"Okay. Thank you." Rikku felt a warm rush through her body at his attempts to ensure her safety, even during a time when he was as drained as she.
She wished she could show him just how grateful she was...
Carefully turning on the spot, the pretty Al Bhed began to traverse the cliff - each foothold examined precariously slow before moving onto the next. Neither guardian wanted to risk the fall onto the frozen lake below.
Auron was silent behind her, save for his harsh breathing and occasional gasp of pain when his leg came in contact with the rock face. From the sounds of it he was once again relying heavily on the strength in his arms to 'drag' him to the top - Rikku guessed this was because it was extremely difficult climbing with one leg - how she wished she had more energy so she could help him to the top!
Occasionally one of the guardians would lose their footing slightly and they would both get a terrible fright, but other then this and threat of not finding the energy to make the next step - they managed to make it to the top exhausted but in one piece.
Lying on snow then, icy flakes cascading down upon them from the thinning blizzard, Auron and Rikku felt sheer joy and relief in seeing Macalania Temple looming at the end of the path ahead.
"We're almost there. Let's go." The dark guardian intoned, dragging himself to his feet with help from his sword and brushing his coat off before reaching down a hand to the Al Bhed. She accepted with a warm smile, holding it a little longer then was necessary and causing Auron to blush a little despite the frown that formed.
The wind blew fiercely across the narrow path to the temple, making the short trek quite dangerous as they trudged forward. Rikku was staggering quite frequently as the minutes passed - obviously having exhausted the last of her energy and now relying on willpower alone. Countless times the dark guardian found himself reaching forward to steady her or take hold of her arm to prevent her from falling over.
Then they were at the foot of the giant gilded gates of the temple, facing a sour looking Guado who barred their path.
"State you business." He demanded in a harsh tone, uncaring for their desperate state.
"We are two of Lord Braska's guardians" Auron stated weakly, his Kotetsu buckling about under him as his grip faltered slightly.
"Where is the summoner? You should be by his side at all times, fool." The Guado growled, eyes flashing in annoyance.
"Please," Rikku pleaded quietly, "We fell into a precipice on the way here and so got separated. Braska and his other guardian Jecht are probably still back there looking for us, but because of the blizzard we were unable to signal to them in any way."
"Why should I believe you?" He sneered horribly, shifting his eyes between the two travelers.
"Enough talk!" Auron broke in roughly, fixing his unnerving gaze on the Guado guard. "You will let us through immediately or we'll have no choice but to force our way in and report you for holding up a summoner's entourage. Now move aside!"
The guard paled a little at his words, moving slightly as if to let them through - but at the last moment he barred their path again.
"Halt!" He ordered loudly, his eyes narrowing as he studied Rikku a little closer. After a moment he gaped and took a step back, his eyes widening "She - she's an Al Bhed!"
"So what?" Rikku fumed. "That doesn't make me any less human."
"On Lord Braska's decision she was made one of his guardians. Neither you or I would have any say over whether it is appropriate or not."
"Preposterous!!" He growled, "We will not have an Al Bhed in our holy Temple of Yevon!! Turn away and leave immediately!"
"Guindle," came a deep voice from inside the temple at that moment, interrupting the heated exchange. "Open up please."
"Yes sir!" was the guard's immediate reply. With the click of a switch the gilded double doors parted to reveal a middle-aged Guado dressed in lavish robes who, with piercing blue eyes cast a stern look over the run-down guardian's.
"Auron and Rikku, I presume. We've been expecting you. Where is summoner Braska?"
After explaining again what had happened, the robed Guado - who was a priest of the temple - ushered them both in with a smile.
"Forgive Guindle, the lad's only been a guard at this temple for a short time since he finished his initial training - he's still very much head-strong and unyielding."
Auron nodded, speaking up quickly when the Guado had finished. 'If I may ask... what are we to do about Lord Braska and Jecht? Neither Rikku nor I have the strength to trek back and get them now."
"Of course, of course!" the priest smiled. "A team of my men are being set up to retrieve them as we speak. Meanwhile, I suggest that Rikku get some sleep - as should you once we've healed your injury."
"Thank you!" the Al Bhed spoke gratefully, already feeling better in the warmer environment. "It will be so nice to see Jecht and uncle Braska again!"
Auron was in the midst of nodding in agreement when he froze, his eyes narrowing.
"What did you just say??!"
***********************************************************************
©Erica Runge, 5th of August, 2003. All characters, etc ©Squaresoft and FFX. ©Schwarz Stein.