Chapter 20 – Honor Restored

Seifer stood outside of Headmaster Cid's office with the other cadets who had just completed the Field Exam. He began pacing nervously as the minutes ticked passed. He idly scratched his neck and back. The cadet uniform was unbelievably itchy. Finally a Garden official came and called the names of those who passed.

"Remy Valentine, Seifer Almsay, Yaten Tenoh, that is all."

Each of the three called stood their numbly for a second before rushing into the office to stand at attention in front of Cid who smiled warmly at all of them.

Walking over to Remy first he presented him with his diploma and words of wisdom. "You may think you received because of your connection rather that skill. Well trust me my boy, SeeD doesn't make exceptions for anyone not even the Commander of Balamb. YOU earned." Remy flashed a dazzling smile and gave a firm handshake.

Next was Seifer's turn. He wasn't quite sure what to expect. "I'm so glad you finally made it. Edea and I have been waiting since the day Garden started to see our special group of six reach this plateau and surpass it. I know you may feel like you're not part of us, but always know that you'll have a home at this Garden. I'm proud of you my boy."

Seifer was completely shocked. He cares for me like the others? I thought I was the black sheep with a spike of blonde hair that everyone hated. I guess I was wrong. He was brought out of his thoughts as Cid shook his hand.

Finally, he walked over to the white haired youth with green eyes. "You may not realize your potential as a great asset to this team but healers are just as important as fighters in Garden" They shook hand and then Cid stood back.

"Welcome to SeeD, I'll be looking forward to seeing you at tonight's ball in your honor."

After the conclusion of the ball, Seifer was brought down to the Orphan's hideaway to a special congratulation/thank you party. Selphie, Irvine, Zell, Quistis, Squall, Fujin and Rajin were in attendance. Ravi said hello from the videophone. He was keeping Laguna, Ward and Kiros very busy but they wouldn't have it any other way. Even Edea and Cid made a brief appearance. For the first time in his life Seifer felt like he completely belonged. Fujin and Rajin were only one half of the puzzle, the other half was his family that was long forgotten but never lost.

Early in the morning pounding on his new SeeD quarter's door awakened Seifer. Opening it he was surprised to find Squall fully dressed in his usual combat gear with his gunblade at the waist. Before he had a chance to ask what he wanted Squall spoke. "I challenge you to a duel. For the right to reclaim the honor and title of being your rival." He then pulled off one of his gloves and slapped Seifer in the face with it before walking off. He called over his shoulder as he left, "Meet me in one hour outside the training center.

An hour later Seifer found Squall outside the training center waiting on him. Squall gave a slight nod of his head before leading him to the heart of the center. "Well Seifer it seems we've come full circle. You've made SeeD, I stopped running and finished the mission."

"You're right about one thing, we fulfilled the challenges that we each set forth. Honor has been restored. However, we haven't come completely full circle till we duel to see if you're still up to my level. So you've regained your honor but can you regain your title."

Seifer's answer was in the distinct singing of Lionheart as it cut through the air. Seifer smiled and brought Hyperion up to defend. They brought down their weapons and faced each other. Squall held Lionheart in front of his chest with the blade pointing toward the sky. Seifer copied the motion. Then they turned their backs to one another and walked ten paces. Spinning on their heels, they brought the blades to the familiar ready position. On a silent command they launched themselves at one another. Very soon they both began to feel the adrenaline of battle rushing through their veins. Each clang, swish and screech of blade against blade added to the intensity of the match. Their thoughts were nearly identical. Their duel was like that of an exquisite yet deadly dance. Their spotlights were the sparks and embers that filled the air as their swords met. The music was the chaotic sounds of their battle.

"I've missed this, the thrill of engagement. Living in Esthar was like an unwanted vacation but here in Garden I can live by the blade and die by the blade."

"It's been awhile since I've had to actually make an effort to win. I've always had to hold back except with him. This is what a soldier needs, this is what I want – to fight for all I'm worth."

"He truly is my rival."

The End

AN: That's it. I'm a bit sad that it's over but I'm proud at the same time. Thank you to everyone who took a chance and read this story. I have a bit of goodness for the readers. I have a direct sequel partially planned out as well as several side stories. I just have to start writing. So anyone who's interested in hearing more about the gang, Ravi, Remy and maybe even Yaten look for those sometime in the future.

Here's a rundown of possible projects and their tentative titles.

"Title pending" direct sequel to this involving Gardens use of the information to make genetically manipulated soldiers.

"Title pending" A joint collaboration with my friend Kellendraysia that's a bridge between the "Taking Chances" and the sequel.

"Leather Skin" A look at Irvine's past that was hinted at in "Taking Chances"

"Rivalry" Seifer and Squall first joint mission after the evens in TC. Ties in with the sequel to "TC" also.

Remy Valentine name is a homage to two of my favorite characters. Remy "Gambit" Lebeau from X-men and Vincent Valentine from FFVII.

Yaten Tenoh is also in homage to two of my favorite Sailor Moon characters. Yaten Kou aka Sailor Star Healer and Haruka Tenoh aka Sailor Uranus.

As always, check out my site to find extra features to my fics, such as alternative scenes and my sad attempt at fan art. Gosh, I feel like I'm advertising a DVD. Anyway, the link is in the profile.

Thanks again!

G