"You didn't forget, did you Mera? I know I couldn't forget - all those
wretched nights...all I could think about was you." Garnet trembled as she
looked up at Kuja, his features rugged and hardened, pushed into normalcy
from whatever harsh conditions he had faced. His short-cropped hair had
returned to its original burning copper color, the rest of him was swathed
in black, like some messenger of death. She couldn't decide whether she
wanted to hold on to him or run away screaming.
"Kuja..." His hand slid down to touch her cheek gently, caressing her weeping skin. "Kuja...I...things have changed. Look at me."
"I see you." His beautiful eyes stared straight into hers, "I see that you are more gorgeous than ever. My flower has blossomed."
"I am married to Zidane, Kuja!" Painfully her mind stretched back to the confused, erotic nights she had spent alone with Kuja, years and years ago...she was still a child then. Surely that wasn't real. Surely that couldn't be coming back now, now that everything was perfect! "Married, Kuja. I have commitments, a full life...my heart isn't up for sale any-"
Kuja stopped her by kneeling down and taking her lips in his. For a moment the world stopped - even the play seemed to pause outside, waiting with closed eyes for the stolen moment to pass. His tongue stroked hers, passionate and gentle, sending a chill of fire burning down Garnet's spine. A lifetime passed before he released his strong hold and looked down at her, and still she wanted more. Her eyes melted into his. "You remember."
She remembered. What was happening - where were her precious inhibitions and hours of formalities that usually surrounded her? Now she needed them so badly - she needed protection...Zidane. Garnet threw herself into Kuja's arms.
"The night is over, Mera." Kuja murmured softly into her ear. "I'm done and I'm here...I'm not going to leave this time - we can finally be together."
Zidane! "I was just a girl, Kuja." She pleaded unenthusiastically. "Not old enough to know yet...please understand."
"But I need you." The words were coated with sweet venom. Everything that she had known about Kuja was coming back in a landslide, everything she had tried to force from her memory. She wasn't supposed to know him as more than just a bad man who disappeared after a while...Zidane's nemesis and yet Zidane's brother. But either way, connected to Zidane, not her. There was no historic record of the kiss she had shared with Kuja in his Underground Palace - only of his death under the Iafa Tree. There was no historic record of his heart-rending eyes...just his ferocity in battle.
"Why are you alive?" She whispered. Kuja smiled sadly down at her and kissed her forehead.
"I willed it to be. Zidane was too kind to finish me off...so I never left. All he managed to kill off was my ambition...my hate, pride, dreams. And then all that was left was you. You kept me alive."
Garnet shivered. It had to be some sort of dream - things like this didn't really happen, it was too complicated! She wasn't sure if the dream was a fantasy or a nightmare...but it couldn't be real! It just couldn't be. Her poor little heart expanded and burst. "Kuja?"
"Mera?" His kind voice echoed down at her as he towered over her seat...a dark knight to ruin her life.
"Kiss me again."
--
The play ended with the climbing roar of a standing ovation. The audience expressed their appreciation for a good five minutes, while the actors continued to bow and nod and gesture and smile. Blank turned with a grin to at Zidane - but saw his friend was occupied with staring blankly up at the Queen's box.
"Zid!" The genome turned slowly, "You up for an after-play celebration, bro? A few drinks for all the hard work?"
Zidane shook his head slowly, "No...thanks, Blank. I think I'm going to go find Garnet and go home. I'm not feeling too good."
Blank nodded slowly, Zidane really didn't look too good, but then again he hadn't been himself for a long time. Something about he would stare into space and start listening to things that weren't there. Maybe he was evolving...heh, that was probably it. Zidane faded away into the crowd, and Blank turned around to look for another source of entertainment for the night.
And he found it with trusty old Marcus standing on the edge of the stage, his eyes probably wandering among the finer elements congregated in the throng. Good old Marcus was always up for a drink and a swing...and so Blank approached with a sturdy grin plastered on his face. "Marcus!"
The solid Captain of the Guards turned around slowly, then returned a hearty grin when he saw Blank. "What a show, huh? Good play!" Marcus was always so humble. He had played the lead actor in the Canary play since Tantalus started practicing it - and still he always had compliments for everyone else.
"Yeah, same to you Marc!" Blank patted the big man on the back, then rushed into his plan for drinks and women all night. Marcus just shrugged and grinned.
"Same old you, huh? I'm glad you're back, Blank."
"Of course you are. Good to be back." Blank winked.
"I'm all up for it, of course - but first I've gotta go talk to Cid about something. I had him looking into trance stuff for me, and he wanted to give me something while he's here."
"Sure, sure. Trance stuff - that's fine, take your time." Why did Marcus have to try to play the scholar every other chance he could get. He was a big, strong warrior - why did he need to know everything?
"There's Cid over there - come on, come with me." Marcus flung his arm around Blank's shoulder, hopped off the stage, and gouged his way through the crowd. His aim was the large circle that had been cleared out for the huge baldhead in the middle of the crowd. The illustrious Regent Cid and his family, there probably wasn't a single person in all of Alexandria that wouldn't want to pick the old man's brain.
Standing close by was old Cid's wife, Hilda. The old wench just got skinnier and crabbier by the day, but somehow she was put up with. Perhaps a lot of medicine. And standing close by her was Eiko, the dainty little adopted princess with a horn protruding from her purple locks. Dealing with her before Cid decided to adopt her was tedious enough - now she was confident that everyone was really some sort of secret suitor. And there could never be too many for Eiko.
And standing nearby Eiko was... "Hot damn."
--
"Oh gods have mercy." Alicia muttered as quietly as she could restrain herself to.
"What's wrong, Alicia?" Eiko tugged urgently at her sleeve - a mothering expression crawling onto her young features. "Are you alright?"
"That brigand from this morning has caught up with me..." Alicia of course was surprised that the drunk had turned out to be one of the royal family's friends, a loyal trusted subject, and everything like that. But that really did not change the fact that he was a drunk, it didn't change anything at all. Her scowl stiffened as Blank approached and offered a graceful bow.
"Well hello there, angel. Fate's treating me pretty well today."
"Then I would assume the headache is gone?" Alicia quipped bitterly. Blank's smile stayed as strong as ever.
"Of course - and you're still just as beautiful." Still throwing out cheesy lines...what a winner.
"Hello, Blank!" Eiko stepped forward and waved eagerly.
Blank turned his gaze, "Well, well, Miss Eiko - you look delicious! How are you, doll?" Alicia noticed Eiko blush and answer happily, which just made the whole situation even more revolting.
"I'm not too comfortable with a vagrant like you addressing such a good young girl like Eiko in such a manner." Good little girl was stretching it - but she did have her loyalties. "If you have to flirt with something, find an object that won't take offense - preferably inanimate."
"Ow...how cold." Blank winked boyishly at Alicia, then nodded over at Marcus and Cid, who were chattering away about something Alicia hadn't really been paying attention to. "I'm just with him - our meeting here is pure coincidence...perhaps. So you're Eiko's guardian or something like that? How lucky for me!"
"Her tutor."
"The angel of luck must be on my side."
"I can't-"
"Speaking of luck!" Blank struck a ridiculous pose, pulling his bandana over his eyes. It made Eiko giggle, but sure didn't boost Alicia's opinion of him. "How did you enjoy the play tonight."
"I thought you all were great!" Eiko burst in quickly, "You're always my favorite, Mister Blank."
"Surprisingly good, Blank, I have to compliment you on one thing - you are a very good actor."
"Doesn't sound like you're trying to compliment me, miss...umm...ah yes, Gabrielle."
Alicia shrugged with a brief smile of victory - at least he still didn't know her name. That was something. Before the banter could continue, Cid turned his wrinkled features to break into the conversation.
"Blank, listen here, because this does apply to you as well. I did a little research on why certain people can experience trance frequently, like Zidane, and some people can't. I've figured out that for a most part it's purely psychological. Some people try to achieve different goals when fighting..."
"And what - I don't have any goals when I fight?" Blank shrugged and looked up at the dark ceiling thoughtfully, "I don't know - I seem to remember having goals at some point along the way."
"But for some reason it only triggers the right reaction with some people - perhaps it's just the pure will of fighting. Or maybe something happened in your childhood that doesn't allow you to commit so much into battle - I don't fully understand the natural reasons behind trance. However I have been experimenting and I believe I may be able to find a way to give you an artificial trance."
"Force it on me?" Blank looked worried. Alicia watched his face carefully. She didn't understand exactly what was going on - she only knew a very little bit about trance from listening to Cid and reading various fantasies. It could be dangerous or even entertaining; she really had no idea. But from Blank's expression it looked like forcing it on him wasn't exactly what he wanted.
Cid adjusted his glasses and coughed nervously, "Yes, well, it's still in the making, but with a little more research I think an artificially induced trance is not so far off as we think. If you and Marcus are interested then I can keep you posted."
"I...guess I'm interested." Marcus scratched his head thoughtfully, "It sure would be a lot easier to fulfill my duties if I was as powerful as Zidane."
Blank shook his head slowly, "No. Leave me out of it...but thanks. Are we ready to go Marcus?" Alicia found herself staring straight at Blank again, and looked away with a hint of a blush. It was just...simply undeniable that he was a very interesting character.
"I guess I'm ready." Marcus nodded, then shook Cid's hand heartily. Blank ignored his goodbyes with Cid, turning instead to Alicia and Eiko. Well...to Alicia.
"Goodnight, beautiful ladies. I hope I am rewarded with your presence sometime soon, eh? Eh?"
Alicia bit back a smile, "Don't be too hopeful."
"I will be." He touched his lips to his fingertips and blew a kiss over to her. "Maybe that's the devil in me speaking...? Until then."
And so he left, leaving the night much quieter...much darker without him.
--
The sounds of rain trickled through his senses, in his pores and through every tiny nerve in his body. But the feeling wasn't right - it wasn't real. Something nostalgic, as if he was supposed to remember something. Maybe that was why he refused the night on the town with Blank and chose instead to find his wife - something about memories. Something about rain...
Did he believe in god? What god would that be referring to? The gods of Madain Sari, endless in names, diversity and power? There were countless named and nameless cults throughout the nations, all proclaiming to have found the right way and truth. The newest fanatics group was Noxism, the Followers of the Deliverer. Their numbers infested the streets, pulling more believers every day with their cry that the end was coming, but a savior would be there to deliver them.
But it was all so encrypted and punched with holes. Was he supposed to believe in this Savior? Was he supposed to believe in some other god? Why was he thinking about it in the first place? The voice in his head. Yes...it was because he hadn't heard a voice in his head since Necron spoke to him three years before, and then Garland before him. Because to Zidane, voices in his head meant only one thing. Trouble.
Was it some sort of riddle or clue? A way to find his next step...was he supposed to take a step at all? No! Zidane wove angrily through the crowd, dodging the admirers and girls he had met before. No he was supposed to be happy and settled down - content to live out his life in Alexandria with Garnet for the rest of his life. There didn't have to be any more trouble or adventures...What was it that reminded him of rain?
He had to find Garnet.
"Zidane!" Zidane strained to find the voice that was calling to him - his vision finally settling on a awkwardly built black mage stumbling through the crowd toward him. The sight was something worth smiling for.
"Vivi!" The beady yellow eyes of the black mage stared up at him, excitement pulsating from them. Following closely behind the first mage came three more; a large one and two smaller ones huddled up beside...it. "Is this your family again? I haven't seen them for a while."
"Yes, they've grown haven't they?" The thought of that made the little mage beam with pleasure - which was hard to see on a black mage, but it was definitely there. Vivi had always wanted children for some strange, unknown reason. Zidane, on the other hand, had a very low tolerance for anything without some sort of form, or at least something mildly interesting to say. What was the use of a little person that just made messes and cried all of the time - and how could one possibly love it? That was definitely beyond him.
"Sure have. I didn't know you came to see the play, Vivi - I'm glad you could make it."
"Me too...although..." Vivi lowered his voice, "Quina found me halfway through the performance and kept trying to convince Lili that I had married her first." That made Zidane laugh out loud...which made Vivi wrinkle up in confusion, "Shh...That's something I'd like to never bring up again...umm...if you know what I mean."
"I most certainly do." Zidane grinned...strange - he had kept his wife from that event. Ah yes...his wife. "Vivi, you'll have to excuse me - I've got to go find Garnet. Are you staying in town for a while? Maybe we can get together tomorrow."
"Yes, maybe...but Zidane, before you go."
"Yeah?" Zidane avoided the glance of a pretty young girl eying him from the edge of the crowd. Pity... "What is it?"
"Umm...maybe I'm just unduly worried or something - but in the middle of the play, I thought for sure I felt someone casting a spell nearby." Zidane froze. "It could be alright - but you know...magic is a dangerous thing and all..."
The rain washed up and over Zidane's head. What...was...it...? "It's probably nothing, Vivi, don't worry too much about it. We've got good security around here - I'm sure the guards can handle anything that comes up."
"Yup..." Vivi smiled, "I'm not worried. Well, I'm gonna go show my family around - have a good night with Garnet!"
"Yeah, thanks..." For some reason, he very much doubted that.
--
Blank left the theatre house whistling happily - in the best of spirits. In only took Marcus a few moments to jump on it.
"You're pretty happy compared to your...most recent moods. What's going on?"
"That is sort of weird, isn't it Marcus? Well...damn, I mean - just earlier I completely gave up Ruby - she shoved me into the dirt and all...and I really don't care. I don't know what the hell is the matter with me, I really don't. I'm just too happy!" Blank spouted out a random babble of words and then laughed heartily to his heart's content.
Marcus laughed as well - a little more slyly. "Ahh, yes, and I have absolutely no clue why that could be. Maybe the shark has his eye set on a prey...hmm?"
"Maybe the shark absolutely doesn't deserve that title...being single and all." Blank grinned wolfishly and ducked from the street to the alley, dodging boxes as he broke into an improvised dance.
"So she really likes you, huh?"
"Eiko? Well...yeah I'm like her big brother or something - she's pretty cute, huh? But I don't have any weird problems with that like...you might have."
"Damn you." Marcus grinned, "I meant the other girl...she was a little bit older if I recall..."
"Ahah! My Angel Gabrielle you mean?" The smile faded from Blank's face as he sighed deeply. "I don't know...I really don't know if anything will come of it - I wish. But...hell, it's really fun! Can't beat that, huh? Come on, Marcus! I've got enough foolishness in me to buy the whole tavern tonight! Follow me!"
"Right." Marcus grinned as he kept up a steady pace behind the euphoric man ahead. "Blank...I really do hope everything goes as we-"
"Shh!" Blank turned around to raise his finger, "Silence! If you breathe too loud, my fair angel is gone."
"Too romantic for your own good." Marcus grumbled. "Hey Blank...why did you tell Cid you don't want to use the trance? I thought it would be pretty useful - for you too."
"Pride, Marcus. Pride." Blank shrugged and smiled lazily, "I don't want to use something if I didn't earn it's use...maybe I'm not supposed to use trance for some reason. I could be messing up the natural order of things." The words faded into a silent showdown for a few moments, and then they both grinned and clapped arms. "Come on," Blank punched Marcus' arm lightly, "Friend. The beer is waiting for us."
--
Garnet glanced around with a heartrending sigh; the trance that had fallen lifted as the applause fell. And she found herself lying in the arms of a complete stranger, the enemy of the people. She didn't even know how he was alive, and yet she threw her very body at him...what a pathetic result from a queen. Slowly she raised from her vulnerable position and tried to regain composure.
"You know...Kuja, that we cannot see each other." The small theatre box seemed even darker and more cramped now that everything was quiet. "My life is set in stone - it has no room for you."
Kuja adjusted his black cape once again around his shoulders, looking down at her with a carefree smile, "But I love you - it can never be over."
That sounded so childish now...but she had believed it once. Gently she touched his chin, returning the smile sadly, "Kuja, yours is not love. It is a sick obsession that started when you first saw me - when we were both still children. I hope you are mature enough now to see it as that...I have."
"No!" Kuja growled, pulling away from her with a grunt of rage, "I know what I am in control of...you are the most beautiful creature to ever grace this foul earth...I know that. Everything should have a second chance - now I know that. You cannot give up on us now...before it is too late."
The fight in her heart was weak - but she still did have her dignity, and a small ounce of truth inside her that stood rigid. "You always cheated through life, Kuja. Zidane had to earn me, had to earn his life - like everyone else. I love Zidane...alright? Do you understand? If you want a second chance then maybe you can try winning me over - instead of locking me in a cage with no hope and no alternative..." Her form shuddered as bittersweet memories flooded her mind, but the queen took over frantically, "It will never happen again - I promise you. Now leave."
"Please...Mera." The smile turned into despair quite quickly - and for a moment Garnet almost felt sorry for him. Mera...the name only he knew - a world only he was living in. He needed help. "Please!" He yelled, grabbing his temple with one strong hand, "He will come back sometime - I cannot win forever...you must help me."
"I will not be your sex doll, Kuja." Her confidence grew as he weakened, and Garnet stood with a surge of regal authority, "Now please leave on good terms - perhaps you can reappear when you become a man."
Kuja turned to exit the room, then spat bitterly on the edge, "It's Arteon." He turned just enough for Garnet to see his eyes glimmering in the darkness, "Never call me Kuja again." Then, smooth as silk, he opened the door and disappeared into the dimly light hall outside. Garnet stared after him for a moment, touching her clothing absently to make sure she was presentable. The words rang confusingly in her head. What the hell was that supposed to mean?
--
"Zidane!" Another voice assaulted him as he mounted the steps to the boxes. Wonderful - first time he had an agenda and now they were all after him. It was about time to just resign the whole idea of seeing his wife - silly notion that it was...
"Zidane!" The voice called again and so he turned with a sigh to see who it was - instantly greeted with the eager face of Mikoto staring up at him. She had done her hair up all nice since the beginning of the play, probably trying to look something like the modern ladies and the outlandish styles they always wore.
"Mikoto...my don't you look lovely." Zidane smiled with gritted teeth, "You know, I'm sort of in a hurry right now - but tomorrow, like I said-" Hadn't he already promised someone else he would meet them tomorrow? Ah hell, he couldn't remember. Mikoto just shook her head regardless.
"It won't take a second, Zidane...I just want to congratulate you..." Her voice was lowered to a whisper as she pushed him up against the nearest wall, suddenly bringing herself very close. Dangerously close. Zidane looked around nervously - it was prime time for someone to snoop around and 'catch him in the act'. Preferably Garnet.
"Um...Mikoto?"
"I'd like to personally congratulate you really, Zidane, but there are so many people around." Mikoto shook her head and sighed cutely - and Zidane just groaned. If he could possibly have covered his eyes he would have, but Mikoto had his arms tightly pressed against the wall. Strong for a little thing, she was.
"Mikoto - maybe I should clear some of this...'touchy' stuff up, eh? You see - this behavior isn't normal, unless we're boyfriend and girlfriend or something like that. Husband and wife - see that's a good example because...well, I'm married. Haha...fancy that - remember Garnet? Nice girl she is, my wife...see...we get to do things like what you're doing to me right now - but you're not really supposed to unless there is some sort of consensual agreement or contract drawn out first. Understand that?"
Mikoto choked down his ramblings and returned with a giggle, "You're silly, Zidane. Of course I understand relationships...you and Garnet are together. That doesn't stop me from having my own feelings though...does it?"
That sounded very wily for something as innocent as Mikoto. Zidane wrestled himself away and waved his hands rapidly, "Okay...well I guess not. Look, Mikoto - now really isn't a good time. I'll talk to you later!" He turned tail and ran.
"Bye bye, Zidane!" Mikoto called out from behind him. Do you believe in God? Heh...strange place the world was becoming. The door to Garnet's box was closed, but the guards that were supposed to be guarding the entrance were strangely absent. Zidane wrinkled his brow and quickly pushed the door in - met instantly with the full brown eyes of his beautiful. And any beauty or thought of it he had ever had melted away and flowed into her...and he was happy.
They stared into each other's eyes for a brief moment - Garnet's expression placid, Zidane's more happy...then Zidane took his wife's hand in his and kissed her forehead, "Are you ready to go home, my dear?"
Garnet sighed and pressed closely against to his side, slight waves of relief flowing through him. "Yes..." She whispered, "Please yes."
--
I would swallow my pride,
I would choke on the rind,
But the lack thereof would leave me empty inside,
Swallow my doubt,
Turn it inside out,
Find nothing but faith in nothing,
Want to put my tender heart in a blender,
Watch it spin round to a beautiful oblivion,
Rendezvous then I'm through with you.
Eve 6 - Inside Out
"Kuja..." His hand slid down to touch her cheek gently, caressing her weeping skin. "Kuja...I...things have changed. Look at me."
"I see you." His beautiful eyes stared straight into hers, "I see that you are more gorgeous than ever. My flower has blossomed."
"I am married to Zidane, Kuja!" Painfully her mind stretched back to the confused, erotic nights she had spent alone with Kuja, years and years ago...she was still a child then. Surely that wasn't real. Surely that couldn't be coming back now, now that everything was perfect! "Married, Kuja. I have commitments, a full life...my heart isn't up for sale any-"
Kuja stopped her by kneeling down and taking her lips in his. For a moment the world stopped - even the play seemed to pause outside, waiting with closed eyes for the stolen moment to pass. His tongue stroked hers, passionate and gentle, sending a chill of fire burning down Garnet's spine. A lifetime passed before he released his strong hold and looked down at her, and still she wanted more. Her eyes melted into his. "You remember."
She remembered. What was happening - where were her precious inhibitions and hours of formalities that usually surrounded her? Now she needed them so badly - she needed protection...Zidane. Garnet threw herself into Kuja's arms.
"The night is over, Mera." Kuja murmured softly into her ear. "I'm done and I'm here...I'm not going to leave this time - we can finally be together."
Zidane! "I was just a girl, Kuja." She pleaded unenthusiastically. "Not old enough to know yet...please understand."
"But I need you." The words were coated with sweet venom. Everything that she had known about Kuja was coming back in a landslide, everything she had tried to force from her memory. She wasn't supposed to know him as more than just a bad man who disappeared after a while...Zidane's nemesis and yet Zidane's brother. But either way, connected to Zidane, not her. There was no historic record of the kiss she had shared with Kuja in his Underground Palace - only of his death under the Iafa Tree. There was no historic record of his heart-rending eyes...just his ferocity in battle.
"Why are you alive?" She whispered. Kuja smiled sadly down at her and kissed her forehead.
"I willed it to be. Zidane was too kind to finish me off...so I never left. All he managed to kill off was my ambition...my hate, pride, dreams. And then all that was left was you. You kept me alive."
Garnet shivered. It had to be some sort of dream - things like this didn't really happen, it was too complicated! She wasn't sure if the dream was a fantasy or a nightmare...but it couldn't be real! It just couldn't be. Her poor little heart expanded and burst. "Kuja?"
"Mera?" His kind voice echoed down at her as he towered over her seat...a dark knight to ruin her life.
"Kiss me again."
--
The play ended with the climbing roar of a standing ovation. The audience expressed their appreciation for a good five minutes, while the actors continued to bow and nod and gesture and smile. Blank turned with a grin to at Zidane - but saw his friend was occupied with staring blankly up at the Queen's box.
"Zid!" The genome turned slowly, "You up for an after-play celebration, bro? A few drinks for all the hard work?"
Zidane shook his head slowly, "No...thanks, Blank. I think I'm going to go find Garnet and go home. I'm not feeling too good."
Blank nodded slowly, Zidane really didn't look too good, but then again he hadn't been himself for a long time. Something about he would stare into space and start listening to things that weren't there. Maybe he was evolving...heh, that was probably it. Zidane faded away into the crowd, and Blank turned around to look for another source of entertainment for the night.
And he found it with trusty old Marcus standing on the edge of the stage, his eyes probably wandering among the finer elements congregated in the throng. Good old Marcus was always up for a drink and a swing...and so Blank approached with a sturdy grin plastered on his face. "Marcus!"
The solid Captain of the Guards turned around slowly, then returned a hearty grin when he saw Blank. "What a show, huh? Good play!" Marcus was always so humble. He had played the lead actor in the Canary play since Tantalus started practicing it - and still he always had compliments for everyone else.
"Yeah, same to you Marc!" Blank patted the big man on the back, then rushed into his plan for drinks and women all night. Marcus just shrugged and grinned.
"Same old you, huh? I'm glad you're back, Blank."
"Of course you are. Good to be back." Blank winked.
"I'm all up for it, of course - but first I've gotta go talk to Cid about something. I had him looking into trance stuff for me, and he wanted to give me something while he's here."
"Sure, sure. Trance stuff - that's fine, take your time." Why did Marcus have to try to play the scholar every other chance he could get. He was a big, strong warrior - why did he need to know everything?
"There's Cid over there - come on, come with me." Marcus flung his arm around Blank's shoulder, hopped off the stage, and gouged his way through the crowd. His aim was the large circle that had been cleared out for the huge baldhead in the middle of the crowd. The illustrious Regent Cid and his family, there probably wasn't a single person in all of Alexandria that wouldn't want to pick the old man's brain.
Standing close by was old Cid's wife, Hilda. The old wench just got skinnier and crabbier by the day, but somehow she was put up with. Perhaps a lot of medicine. And standing close by her was Eiko, the dainty little adopted princess with a horn protruding from her purple locks. Dealing with her before Cid decided to adopt her was tedious enough - now she was confident that everyone was really some sort of secret suitor. And there could never be too many for Eiko.
And standing nearby Eiko was... "Hot damn."
--
"Oh gods have mercy." Alicia muttered as quietly as she could restrain herself to.
"What's wrong, Alicia?" Eiko tugged urgently at her sleeve - a mothering expression crawling onto her young features. "Are you alright?"
"That brigand from this morning has caught up with me..." Alicia of course was surprised that the drunk had turned out to be one of the royal family's friends, a loyal trusted subject, and everything like that. But that really did not change the fact that he was a drunk, it didn't change anything at all. Her scowl stiffened as Blank approached and offered a graceful bow.
"Well hello there, angel. Fate's treating me pretty well today."
"Then I would assume the headache is gone?" Alicia quipped bitterly. Blank's smile stayed as strong as ever.
"Of course - and you're still just as beautiful." Still throwing out cheesy lines...what a winner.
"Hello, Blank!" Eiko stepped forward and waved eagerly.
Blank turned his gaze, "Well, well, Miss Eiko - you look delicious! How are you, doll?" Alicia noticed Eiko blush and answer happily, which just made the whole situation even more revolting.
"I'm not too comfortable with a vagrant like you addressing such a good young girl like Eiko in such a manner." Good little girl was stretching it - but she did have her loyalties. "If you have to flirt with something, find an object that won't take offense - preferably inanimate."
"Ow...how cold." Blank winked boyishly at Alicia, then nodded over at Marcus and Cid, who were chattering away about something Alicia hadn't really been paying attention to. "I'm just with him - our meeting here is pure coincidence...perhaps. So you're Eiko's guardian or something like that? How lucky for me!"
"Her tutor."
"The angel of luck must be on my side."
"I can't-"
"Speaking of luck!" Blank struck a ridiculous pose, pulling his bandana over his eyes. It made Eiko giggle, but sure didn't boost Alicia's opinion of him. "How did you enjoy the play tonight."
"I thought you all were great!" Eiko burst in quickly, "You're always my favorite, Mister Blank."
"Surprisingly good, Blank, I have to compliment you on one thing - you are a very good actor."
"Doesn't sound like you're trying to compliment me, miss...umm...ah yes, Gabrielle."
Alicia shrugged with a brief smile of victory - at least he still didn't know her name. That was something. Before the banter could continue, Cid turned his wrinkled features to break into the conversation.
"Blank, listen here, because this does apply to you as well. I did a little research on why certain people can experience trance frequently, like Zidane, and some people can't. I've figured out that for a most part it's purely psychological. Some people try to achieve different goals when fighting..."
"And what - I don't have any goals when I fight?" Blank shrugged and looked up at the dark ceiling thoughtfully, "I don't know - I seem to remember having goals at some point along the way."
"But for some reason it only triggers the right reaction with some people - perhaps it's just the pure will of fighting. Or maybe something happened in your childhood that doesn't allow you to commit so much into battle - I don't fully understand the natural reasons behind trance. However I have been experimenting and I believe I may be able to find a way to give you an artificial trance."
"Force it on me?" Blank looked worried. Alicia watched his face carefully. She didn't understand exactly what was going on - she only knew a very little bit about trance from listening to Cid and reading various fantasies. It could be dangerous or even entertaining; she really had no idea. But from Blank's expression it looked like forcing it on him wasn't exactly what he wanted.
Cid adjusted his glasses and coughed nervously, "Yes, well, it's still in the making, but with a little more research I think an artificially induced trance is not so far off as we think. If you and Marcus are interested then I can keep you posted."
"I...guess I'm interested." Marcus scratched his head thoughtfully, "It sure would be a lot easier to fulfill my duties if I was as powerful as Zidane."
Blank shook his head slowly, "No. Leave me out of it...but thanks. Are we ready to go Marcus?" Alicia found herself staring straight at Blank again, and looked away with a hint of a blush. It was just...simply undeniable that he was a very interesting character.
"I guess I'm ready." Marcus nodded, then shook Cid's hand heartily. Blank ignored his goodbyes with Cid, turning instead to Alicia and Eiko. Well...to Alicia.
"Goodnight, beautiful ladies. I hope I am rewarded with your presence sometime soon, eh? Eh?"
Alicia bit back a smile, "Don't be too hopeful."
"I will be." He touched his lips to his fingertips and blew a kiss over to her. "Maybe that's the devil in me speaking...? Until then."
And so he left, leaving the night much quieter...much darker without him.
--
The sounds of rain trickled through his senses, in his pores and through every tiny nerve in his body. But the feeling wasn't right - it wasn't real. Something nostalgic, as if he was supposed to remember something. Maybe that was why he refused the night on the town with Blank and chose instead to find his wife - something about memories. Something about rain...
Did he believe in god? What god would that be referring to? The gods of Madain Sari, endless in names, diversity and power? There were countless named and nameless cults throughout the nations, all proclaiming to have found the right way and truth. The newest fanatics group was Noxism, the Followers of the Deliverer. Their numbers infested the streets, pulling more believers every day with their cry that the end was coming, but a savior would be there to deliver them.
But it was all so encrypted and punched with holes. Was he supposed to believe in this Savior? Was he supposed to believe in some other god? Why was he thinking about it in the first place? The voice in his head. Yes...it was because he hadn't heard a voice in his head since Necron spoke to him three years before, and then Garland before him. Because to Zidane, voices in his head meant only one thing. Trouble.
Was it some sort of riddle or clue? A way to find his next step...was he supposed to take a step at all? No! Zidane wove angrily through the crowd, dodging the admirers and girls he had met before. No he was supposed to be happy and settled down - content to live out his life in Alexandria with Garnet for the rest of his life. There didn't have to be any more trouble or adventures...What was it that reminded him of rain?
He had to find Garnet.
"Zidane!" Zidane strained to find the voice that was calling to him - his vision finally settling on a awkwardly built black mage stumbling through the crowd toward him. The sight was something worth smiling for.
"Vivi!" The beady yellow eyes of the black mage stared up at him, excitement pulsating from them. Following closely behind the first mage came three more; a large one and two smaller ones huddled up beside...it. "Is this your family again? I haven't seen them for a while."
"Yes, they've grown haven't they?" The thought of that made the little mage beam with pleasure - which was hard to see on a black mage, but it was definitely there. Vivi had always wanted children for some strange, unknown reason. Zidane, on the other hand, had a very low tolerance for anything without some sort of form, or at least something mildly interesting to say. What was the use of a little person that just made messes and cried all of the time - and how could one possibly love it? That was definitely beyond him.
"Sure have. I didn't know you came to see the play, Vivi - I'm glad you could make it."
"Me too...although..." Vivi lowered his voice, "Quina found me halfway through the performance and kept trying to convince Lili that I had married her first." That made Zidane laugh out loud...which made Vivi wrinkle up in confusion, "Shh...That's something I'd like to never bring up again...umm...if you know what I mean."
"I most certainly do." Zidane grinned...strange - he had kept his wife from that event. Ah yes...his wife. "Vivi, you'll have to excuse me - I've got to go find Garnet. Are you staying in town for a while? Maybe we can get together tomorrow."
"Yes, maybe...but Zidane, before you go."
"Yeah?" Zidane avoided the glance of a pretty young girl eying him from the edge of the crowd. Pity... "What is it?"
"Umm...maybe I'm just unduly worried or something - but in the middle of the play, I thought for sure I felt someone casting a spell nearby." Zidane froze. "It could be alright - but you know...magic is a dangerous thing and all..."
The rain washed up and over Zidane's head. What...was...it...? "It's probably nothing, Vivi, don't worry too much about it. We've got good security around here - I'm sure the guards can handle anything that comes up."
"Yup..." Vivi smiled, "I'm not worried. Well, I'm gonna go show my family around - have a good night with Garnet!"
"Yeah, thanks..." For some reason, he very much doubted that.
--
Blank left the theatre house whistling happily - in the best of spirits. In only took Marcus a few moments to jump on it.
"You're pretty happy compared to your...most recent moods. What's going on?"
"That is sort of weird, isn't it Marcus? Well...damn, I mean - just earlier I completely gave up Ruby - she shoved me into the dirt and all...and I really don't care. I don't know what the hell is the matter with me, I really don't. I'm just too happy!" Blank spouted out a random babble of words and then laughed heartily to his heart's content.
Marcus laughed as well - a little more slyly. "Ahh, yes, and I have absolutely no clue why that could be. Maybe the shark has his eye set on a prey...hmm?"
"Maybe the shark absolutely doesn't deserve that title...being single and all." Blank grinned wolfishly and ducked from the street to the alley, dodging boxes as he broke into an improvised dance.
"So she really likes you, huh?"
"Eiko? Well...yeah I'm like her big brother or something - she's pretty cute, huh? But I don't have any weird problems with that like...you might have."
"Damn you." Marcus grinned, "I meant the other girl...she was a little bit older if I recall..."
"Ahah! My Angel Gabrielle you mean?" The smile faded from Blank's face as he sighed deeply. "I don't know...I really don't know if anything will come of it - I wish. But...hell, it's really fun! Can't beat that, huh? Come on, Marcus! I've got enough foolishness in me to buy the whole tavern tonight! Follow me!"
"Right." Marcus grinned as he kept up a steady pace behind the euphoric man ahead. "Blank...I really do hope everything goes as we-"
"Shh!" Blank turned around to raise his finger, "Silence! If you breathe too loud, my fair angel is gone."
"Too romantic for your own good." Marcus grumbled. "Hey Blank...why did you tell Cid you don't want to use the trance? I thought it would be pretty useful - for you too."
"Pride, Marcus. Pride." Blank shrugged and smiled lazily, "I don't want to use something if I didn't earn it's use...maybe I'm not supposed to use trance for some reason. I could be messing up the natural order of things." The words faded into a silent showdown for a few moments, and then they both grinned and clapped arms. "Come on," Blank punched Marcus' arm lightly, "Friend. The beer is waiting for us."
--
Garnet glanced around with a heartrending sigh; the trance that had fallen lifted as the applause fell. And she found herself lying in the arms of a complete stranger, the enemy of the people. She didn't even know how he was alive, and yet she threw her very body at him...what a pathetic result from a queen. Slowly she raised from her vulnerable position and tried to regain composure.
"You know...Kuja, that we cannot see each other." The small theatre box seemed even darker and more cramped now that everything was quiet. "My life is set in stone - it has no room for you."
Kuja adjusted his black cape once again around his shoulders, looking down at her with a carefree smile, "But I love you - it can never be over."
That sounded so childish now...but she had believed it once. Gently she touched his chin, returning the smile sadly, "Kuja, yours is not love. It is a sick obsession that started when you first saw me - when we were both still children. I hope you are mature enough now to see it as that...I have."
"No!" Kuja growled, pulling away from her with a grunt of rage, "I know what I am in control of...you are the most beautiful creature to ever grace this foul earth...I know that. Everything should have a second chance - now I know that. You cannot give up on us now...before it is too late."
The fight in her heart was weak - but she still did have her dignity, and a small ounce of truth inside her that stood rigid. "You always cheated through life, Kuja. Zidane had to earn me, had to earn his life - like everyone else. I love Zidane...alright? Do you understand? If you want a second chance then maybe you can try winning me over - instead of locking me in a cage with no hope and no alternative..." Her form shuddered as bittersweet memories flooded her mind, but the queen took over frantically, "It will never happen again - I promise you. Now leave."
"Please...Mera." The smile turned into despair quite quickly - and for a moment Garnet almost felt sorry for him. Mera...the name only he knew - a world only he was living in. He needed help. "Please!" He yelled, grabbing his temple with one strong hand, "He will come back sometime - I cannot win forever...you must help me."
"I will not be your sex doll, Kuja." Her confidence grew as he weakened, and Garnet stood with a surge of regal authority, "Now please leave on good terms - perhaps you can reappear when you become a man."
Kuja turned to exit the room, then spat bitterly on the edge, "It's Arteon." He turned just enough for Garnet to see his eyes glimmering in the darkness, "Never call me Kuja again." Then, smooth as silk, he opened the door and disappeared into the dimly light hall outside. Garnet stared after him for a moment, touching her clothing absently to make sure she was presentable. The words rang confusingly in her head. What the hell was that supposed to mean?
--
"Zidane!" Another voice assaulted him as he mounted the steps to the boxes. Wonderful - first time he had an agenda and now they were all after him. It was about time to just resign the whole idea of seeing his wife - silly notion that it was...
"Zidane!" The voice called again and so he turned with a sigh to see who it was - instantly greeted with the eager face of Mikoto staring up at him. She had done her hair up all nice since the beginning of the play, probably trying to look something like the modern ladies and the outlandish styles they always wore.
"Mikoto...my don't you look lovely." Zidane smiled with gritted teeth, "You know, I'm sort of in a hurry right now - but tomorrow, like I said-" Hadn't he already promised someone else he would meet them tomorrow? Ah hell, he couldn't remember. Mikoto just shook her head regardless.
"It won't take a second, Zidane...I just want to congratulate you..." Her voice was lowered to a whisper as she pushed him up against the nearest wall, suddenly bringing herself very close. Dangerously close. Zidane looked around nervously - it was prime time for someone to snoop around and 'catch him in the act'. Preferably Garnet.
"Um...Mikoto?"
"I'd like to personally congratulate you really, Zidane, but there are so many people around." Mikoto shook her head and sighed cutely - and Zidane just groaned. If he could possibly have covered his eyes he would have, but Mikoto had his arms tightly pressed against the wall. Strong for a little thing, she was.
"Mikoto - maybe I should clear some of this...'touchy' stuff up, eh? You see - this behavior isn't normal, unless we're boyfriend and girlfriend or something like that. Husband and wife - see that's a good example because...well, I'm married. Haha...fancy that - remember Garnet? Nice girl she is, my wife...see...we get to do things like what you're doing to me right now - but you're not really supposed to unless there is some sort of consensual agreement or contract drawn out first. Understand that?"
Mikoto choked down his ramblings and returned with a giggle, "You're silly, Zidane. Of course I understand relationships...you and Garnet are together. That doesn't stop me from having my own feelings though...does it?"
That sounded very wily for something as innocent as Mikoto. Zidane wrestled himself away and waved his hands rapidly, "Okay...well I guess not. Look, Mikoto - now really isn't a good time. I'll talk to you later!" He turned tail and ran.
"Bye bye, Zidane!" Mikoto called out from behind him. Do you believe in God? Heh...strange place the world was becoming. The door to Garnet's box was closed, but the guards that were supposed to be guarding the entrance were strangely absent. Zidane wrinkled his brow and quickly pushed the door in - met instantly with the full brown eyes of his beautiful. And any beauty or thought of it he had ever had melted away and flowed into her...and he was happy.
They stared into each other's eyes for a brief moment - Garnet's expression placid, Zidane's more happy...then Zidane took his wife's hand in his and kissed her forehead, "Are you ready to go home, my dear?"
Garnet sighed and pressed closely against to his side, slight waves of relief flowing through him. "Yes..." She whispered, "Please yes."
--
I would swallow my pride,
I would choke on the rind,
But the lack thereof would leave me empty inside,
Swallow my doubt,
Turn it inside out,
Find nothing but faith in nothing,
Want to put my tender heart in a blender,
Watch it spin round to a beautiful oblivion,
Rendezvous then I'm through with you.
Eve 6 - Inside Out