Time's Scars

Chapter Twenty-Four: Solutions

Irvine saluted Cid as he finished reporting the events of the past day.  Both Squall and Rinoa were back in Garden, as well as the rest of the Orphanage Gang.

Cid nodded in approval, then asked, "Would you mind fetching Squall for me?"

"Not at all, sir.  I'll go get him." Irvine replied, rushing out of the room.

Cid sighed and rubbed his forehead.  Everything had been so crazy lately.  He hoped it would all go back to normal now.

Squall walked in a few minutes later and obediently saluted, then relaxed and sat down.  "You wanted to see me, sir?"

"Yes, I thought I'd update you on what happened while you were out."

Squall nodded.

Cid stood up, "Well, the war with Galbadia is over.  When Saruman died, I guess they came to their senses. The president of Deling City issued a formal apology to Garden.  He said that he only vaguely remembered what he'd done.  I'm certain it was a control spell now.  Anyway, that's cleared up."

"And…?" Squall prompted.

"We found Seifer.  He's in the infirmary now.  Dr. Kadowaki said he would be just fine.  Now, I'd like you to give me an update.  What are you planning to do from here?"

Squall sighed, "Well, I don't think I'm staying here.  I want to live in peace, without all the media attention I know I'll get.  Of course, I'll return in the event of an emergency.  Otherwise, I want to just settle down and have a normal life…or at least as normal of a life I can have."

Cid smiled, "I understand, son.  It will be different here without you, but I think you'd be happier.  No anger or anything.  I'm glad you finally are showing characteristics of a normal family man."

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Epilogue

He smiled and wrapped an arm around his wife, observing the beautiful land around them.  She looked up and leaned into him.  "It's so nice here.  I'm glad we did this."

Kissing her cheek, he replied, "Me too."

The young couple remained in one another's embrace for what seemed like an eternity.  Finally, he pulled away from her.  "Get inside, it's getting cold.  Remember, you've got two people to look out for now."

She smiled and put a hand on her large tummy, walking back into the home behind them.

He stayed for a moment and watched as the sun sank below the horizon.

"Family.  This is where I belong."