DISCLAIMER - I really really wish I owned Final Fantasy VIII. But I don't
so don't sue me! I can barely pay for tuition and books at my college as
it is!
Author's notes- Oh hey, this chapter makes small references to all my other stories. I didn't even do that on purpose. Anyway, I hope you guys like this chapter. It was a hassle, much like my last chapter of Unsilenced. Computer problems, power outages, vacation, my mom's addiction to ebay....
Aratcorien- You thought Blaine had died? Good...that was what I was shooting for. But he didn't so we can all be happy!
Crescent Pearl-Glad you liked the ending so much. Thanks.
Lovely Princess Peach- Aw....You're so sweet. Hope you like this chapter as well.
Ameli- Yes I'm a softy which is why people rarely die in my stories; especially cute little babies. :)
Awakening
He waited until the pain in his head had subsided before he dared think of opening his eyes. At least his neck and stomach didn't hurt anymore. With eyes still closed he allowed his hands to feel down to where his wound was. Not feeling anything amiss he opened his eyes abruptly. He couldn't be dead. He couldn't allow himself that. Too many people still needed him.
When his eyes finally focused he was staring at the stone wall across from him. Turning his head as far as his stiff neck would allow, he took in the sights of the curtains blowing gently on the breeze and the ancient looking bookcase that sat beyond them. He slowly rose to a sitting position and slid out of bed. A piercing pain ripped across the back of his hand. He turned just in time to see the remnants of his IV falling onto the bed sheets. Holding the injured hand gingerly he froze at the sight by the door. A smile came across his lips at the sight of Ward stretched out on a couch. Walking over to the dresser across the room he looked at himself in the mirror.
'Boy don't I look rough,' He thought to himself. With some amazement he noticed the scar left on his neck from where the second shot had nearly killed him. 'That was a miracle,' He thought as he ran his finger across it. Letting his hands fall down to the gown they had him wearing, he unbuttoned the top and pulled the fabric aside. He let out a low whistle as he carefully examined the nice scar just above his belly button. Deciding it was time he figured out where he was he began looking for something else to wear.
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Lucas hit the floor with enough force to momentarily knock him senseless. Fighting the disorienting dizziness he pushed himself up off of the floor and stared at the man before him through reddened eyes.
"Don't you ever sass me again boy! Next time I kill you and your pretty little niece," The man's strong hands clasped around his throat, pushing him up against the wall. He watched numbly as his boss pulled free a concealed hand gun and tapped his cheek with it.
"My apologies Mr. Audley..." His slip up was corrected with a sharp blow with the weapon on the side of his head. "B-Boss. I-I meant Boss."
After a few tense moments, the gun was returned to its place up its owner's sleeve. Lucas felt himself fall up against the wall when he was released from the other man's grasp. "Lucas my boy...you have the potential to go very far in my employment. But knowing that, don't be so bold to think we're equals because it'll be your last mistake." Lucas nodded from his place against the wall. "You have one shot to redeem yourself." Audley tossed him a folder. Lucas, already drained of energy merely fumbled with the package between his left hand and right nub and watched as it fell from his grasp. Audley ignored it as he paced around the room.
"Ross," Lucas spoke as he looked at the prison layout in his hands.
Audley smiled and made Lucas' skin crawl. "That's right. Get him out of his holding cell and back here. I'll send along one other person to assist you. If you do well on this mission you'll have not only regained my confidence in your abilities but secured yourself a position on something else I've been planing." Lucas nodded seriously and tucked the folder under his arm. "No," Audley stopped him. "Memorize the plans here. They don't leave this room." Lucas paused and then slowly opened the folder.
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A television news broadcast droned on about the decline of Galbadian jobs in some lobby down the hall. Having heard the rerun broadcast twice before Seifer just blocked it out as he focused on the far more interesting miracle before him. Leaning on his elbows, he watched as the bundle under the baby blue blanket began to move. With fascination he pulled the top of the blanket back far enough so that he could see the infant underneath move around. Blaine had long since been taken off a ventilator and seemed to be doing a lot better. With a smile he gently took his son's hand in-between his thumb and index finger and watched as the tiny infant before him looked up in his direction.
"Hey," A familiar voice spoke from behind him. Seifer grinned as he continued watching the baby before him. "I went to the manor and visited Elle," Irvine said as he pulled up a seat and looked at the small infant. "He's a lot smaller than Blade. Are they still considered identical twins if one's bigger than the other?"
"Good question," Seifer answered. "According to the doctor he just didn't develop as quickly."
"Hmm," Irvine said as he looked over the baby with a smile. "So how do ya feel about it?"
"Feel about what?" Seifer asked.
"Ya know what," Irvine answered as he gently ran his hand along the baby's short fine hair.
"Oh I do?" Seifer raised an eyebrow.
"Well I'd like to hope you're at least just a little affected by 'em."
Seifer grinned. "Yeah. Its still unreal...." He pulled the blanket back up and then moved his hand away from Blaine's side. "I just...I have...I have nightmares, you know, of the sorceress war. Its like a nightly reminder of my biggest screw up," Seifer stated. "There were times, when I was in D-district that I just wanted to die. I was so absorbed in my own self-pity and defeat. I mean I was glad I was defeated. I realized the danger the sorceress possessed near the end...but being defeated no matter what, is a critical blow. Elle pulled me out of that hell hole and when she told me she was pregnant I felt lower than dirt, like I'd ruined her life or something.
"But none of this really sank in until they were born. And now I look at them, they're both miracles and, I don't know. Am I supposed to be describing how I feel about them?" He laughed. "I honestly don't know how to describe this feeling. Sure I'm proud. Hell yeah I'm proud." Irvine grinned. "Sure you, Squall, Quistis and even Zell have had children before me but I had two at once. So the way I figure it I got you all beat." Irvine laughed.
"Good to see you still have a competitive nature," Irvine joked. "But you mean to tell me you aren't in the least bit nervous or scared about being a new parent?"
"Hell yeah I'm scared," Seifer whispered. "But don't you repeat that to anyone." Irvine nodded. "Elle knows what's she's doing when it comes to babies and small children, but the thing that gets me is one day she's not going to be there and this one here is going to stop breathing on me or something." Irvine looked down to the baby now asleep and listened to Seifer's serious tone with interest. Seifer rubbed his hands together. "I'm going to go down to the cafeteria. You want anything?"
"Oh no," Irvine rose. "I just thought I'd make a trip over considering Garden was only a few hours away. I just wanted to see the little guys." Seifer smiled. "You're going to have to bring them by Garden and show the others. Considering Selphie, Quistis, Nida and Xu are tied up at Garden there's no way they can make it out here. They'll probably give me a hard time about it 'cause I left without 'em." Seifer grinned. "And ya do know that Matron wants to see 'em pretty bad too. Cid keeps tellin' her that she can't go down to the manor just yet. Its driving her crazy. You should see it. Cid's in the doghouse big time until he decides its safe for her to go see her newest grand-babies." Irvine grinned. Seifer rolled his eyes. "Anyway, I need to get out of here. I just figured I'd stop in and say congratulations."
"I appreciate it," Seifer responded. Irvine smiled.
"Hey, before I go, do ya need anything for the twins?"
Seifer shrugged. "I really haven't a clue. I know there was a quick, ill-conceived baby shower attempt that didn't happen until after they were born. I know Rin took Squall's credit card and did some shopping for us..." Seifer grinned at the thought. "I might be able to put a mobile to use on their crib."
Irvine grinned. "You mean a cute little one with chicobos on it?"
"That just might work," Seifer answered.
"I think I can manage that." Seifer watched as he stepped out into the hallway and then watched the nurse that stepped inside.
"Good afternoon Sir."
"Afternoon," He said as he stood up. She smiled sweetly.
"I have good news Mr. Almasy. He's been cleared and can go home as soon as you can get him in a car seat." Seifer stared at her in shock.
"But what about his breathing and..."
"Trust me Sir. We wouldn't let him go if we thought there was a chance that something would happen to him," She pulled her clipboard up against her chest. "But you will have to be extra careful to keep him warm and to make sure there's no toys or anything in his crib that may inhibit his breathing while he's asleep." Seifer nodded slowly, still surprised at how soon he could take Blaine home.
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The navy colored sedan slowed to a stop as it neared the end of the driveway. The driver looked out at the lush overgrown landscaping uneasily.
"SAFE?" His wife asked in the seat beside him.
"We should be," He smiled encouragingly. She nodded absently as she looked out her window at the manor that loomed against the clouded sky. "C'mon. Let's get her inside." She slowly stepped from the vehicle as she watched him fumble with the car seat. The front door opened and she smiled warmly at the mammoth of a man that greeted them.
"Come on in. It looks like rain ya know. Don't want to get the little one wet ya know."
"Raijin," She smiled as she wrapped the man in a hug.
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He had been walking around on slightly unsteady legs for who knew how long. He knew he was lost but he didn't care. It was growing increasingly obvious that he wasn't in any danger anyway. He started walking down the hallway to his right and paused at a familiar sight. In the doorway not fifty feet ahead of him he could see his grandson, Tempest, playing with something on the floor. His stomach growled, momentarily distracting him.
'I'll check on him and then go find something to eat,' He told himself. Taking a few strides forward he came across a very unexpected sound. It was crying, at least he thought it was. Pausing in front of the doorway on his left he tried to peek in. Gingerly placing his hand on the oak door he pushed it open just enough to see inside. The cries of a baby were all very audible. Now very curious he pushed the door open just a little more to see Ellone. A smile came to his lips as he tapped on the door lightly to alert her of his presence. She turned around quickly and looked at him in shock. A broad grin crossed her now pale features as she motioned for him to come in.
"Oh my goodness," She half-laughed half-cried. "Uncle Laguna." He smiled happily as he stepped towards her and brought her into a weak hug. "Oh I have so much to tell you." He smiled broadly, elated just to be able to talk to a family member after his ordeal.
"Wait a minute," He paused as the reality that the infant in her arms was too small to be Zell's. "Who's baby is this?"
Ellone grinned proudly. "He's mine. His name is Blade." Her news hit Laguna like a sac of bricks and the poor old man paled before he fainted and hit the floor with a thud.
Author's notes- Oh hey, this chapter makes small references to all my other stories. I didn't even do that on purpose. Anyway, I hope you guys like this chapter. It was a hassle, much like my last chapter of Unsilenced. Computer problems, power outages, vacation, my mom's addiction to ebay....
Aratcorien- You thought Blaine had died? Good...that was what I was shooting for. But he didn't so we can all be happy!
Crescent Pearl-Glad you liked the ending so much. Thanks.
Lovely Princess Peach- Aw....You're so sweet. Hope you like this chapter as well.
Ameli- Yes I'm a softy which is why people rarely die in my stories; especially cute little babies. :)
Awakening
He waited until the pain in his head had subsided before he dared think of opening his eyes. At least his neck and stomach didn't hurt anymore. With eyes still closed he allowed his hands to feel down to where his wound was. Not feeling anything amiss he opened his eyes abruptly. He couldn't be dead. He couldn't allow himself that. Too many people still needed him.
When his eyes finally focused he was staring at the stone wall across from him. Turning his head as far as his stiff neck would allow, he took in the sights of the curtains blowing gently on the breeze and the ancient looking bookcase that sat beyond them. He slowly rose to a sitting position and slid out of bed. A piercing pain ripped across the back of his hand. He turned just in time to see the remnants of his IV falling onto the bed sheets. Holding the injured hand gingerly he froze at the sight by the door. A smile came across his lips at the sight of Ward stretched out on a couch. Walking over to the dresser across the room he looked at himself in the mirror.
'Boy don't I look rough,' He thought to himself. With some amazement he noticed the scar left on his neck from where the second shot had nearly killed him. 'That was a miracle,' He thought as he ran his finger across it. Letting his hands fall down to the gown they had him wearing, he unbuttoned the top and pulled the fabric aside. He let out a low whistle as he carefully examined the nice scar just above his belly button. Deciding it was time he figured out where he was he began looking for something else to wear.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
Lucas hit the floor with enough force to momentarily knock him senseless. Fighting the disorienting dizziness he pushed himself up off of the floor and stared at the man before him through reddened eyes.
"Don't you ever sass me again boy! Next time I kill you and your pretty little niece," The man's strong hands clasped around his throat, pushing him up against the wall. He watched numbly as his boss pulled free a concealed hand gun and tapped his cheek with it.
"My apologies Mr. Audley..." His slip up was corrected with a sharp blow with the weapon on the side of his head. "B-Boss. I-I meant Boss."
After a few tense moments, the gun was returned to its place up its owner's sleeve. Lucas felt himself fall up against the wall when he was released from the other man's grasp. "Lucas my boy...you have the potential to go very far in my employment. But knowing that, don't be so bold to think we're equals because it'll be your last mistake." Lucas nodded from his place against the wall. "You have one shot to redeem yourself." Audley tossed him a folder. Lucas, already drained of energy merely fumbled with the package between his left hand and right nub and watched as it fell from his grasp. Audley ignored it as he paced around the room.
"Ross," Lucas spoke as he looked at the prison layout in his hands.
Audley smiled and made Lucas' skin crawl. "That's right. Get him out of his holding cell and back here. I'll send along one other person to assist you. If you do well on this mission you'll have not only regained my confidence in your abilities but secured yourself a position on something else I've been planing." Lucas nodded seriously and tucked the folder under his arm. "No," Audley stopped him. "Memorize the plans here. They don't leave this room." Lucas paused and then slowly opened the folder.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
A television news broadcast droned on about the decline of Galbadian jobs in some lobby down the hall. Having heard the rerun broadcast twice before Seifer just blocked it out as he focused on the far more interesting miracle before him. Leaning on his elbows, he watched as the bundle under the baby blue blanket began to move. With fascination he pulled the top of the blanket back far enough so that he could see the infant underneath move around. Blaine had long since been taken off a ventilator and seemed to be doing a lot better. With a smile he gently took his son's hand in-between his thumb and index finger and watched as the tiny infant before him looked up in his direction.
"Hey," A familiar voice spoke from behind him. Seifer grinned as he continued watching the baby before him. "I went to the manor and visited Elle," Irvine said as he pulled up a seat and looked at the small infant. "He's a lot smaller than Blade. Are they still considered identical twins if one's bigger than the other?"
"Good question," Seifer answered. "According to the doctor he just didn't develop as quickly."
"Hmm," Irvine said as he looked over the baby with a smile. "So how do ya feel about it?"
"Feel about what?" Seifer asked.
"Ya know what," Irvine answered as he gently ran his hand along the baby's short fine hair.
"Oh I do?" Seifer raised an eyebrow.
"Well I'd like to hope you're at least just a little affected by 'em."
Seifer grinned. "Yeah. Its still unreal...." He pulled the blanket back up and then moved his hand away from Blaine's side. "I just...I have...I have nightmares, you know, of the sorceress war. Its like a nightly reminder of my biggest screw up," Seifer stated. "There were times, when I was in D-district that I just wanted to die. I was so absorbed in my own self-pity and defeat. I mean I was glad I was defeated. I realized the danger the sorceress possessed near the end...but being defeated no matter what, is a critical blow. Elle pulled me out of that hell hole and when she told me she was pregnant I felt lower than dirt, like I'd ruined her life or something.
"But none of this really sank in until they were born. And now I look at them, they're both miracles and, I don't know. Am I supposed to be describing how I feel about them?" He laughed. "I honestly don't know how to describe this feeling. Sure I'm proud. Hell yeah I'm proud." Irvine grinned. "Sure you, Squall, Quistis and even Zell have had children before me but I had two at once. So the way I figure it I got you all beat." Irvine laughed.
"Good to see you still have a competitive nature," Irvine joked. "But you mean to tell me you aren't in the least bit nervous or scared about being a new parent?"
"Hell yeah I'm scared," Seifer whispered. "But don't you repeat that to anyone." Irvine nodded. "Elle knows what's she's doing when it comes to babies and small children, but the thing that gets me is one day she's not going to be there and this one here is going to stop breathing on me or something." Irvine looked down to the baby now asleep and listened to Seifer's serious tone with interest. Seifer rubbed his hands together. "I'm going to go down to the cafeteria. You want anything?"
"Oh no," Irvine rose. "I just thought I'd make a trip over considering Garden was only a few hours away. I just wanted to see the little guys." Seifer smiled. "You're going to have to bring them by Garden and show the others. Considering Selphie, Quistis, Nida and Xu are tied up at Garden there's no way they can make it out here. They'll probably give me a hard time about it 'cause I left without 'em." Seifer grinned. "And ya do know that Matron wants to see 'em pretty bad too. Cid keeps tellin' her that she can't go down to the manor just yet. Its driving her crazy. You should see it. Cid's in the doghouse big time until he decides its safe for her to go see her newest grand-babies." Irvine grinned. Seifer rolled his eyes. "Anyway, I need to get out of here. I just figured I'd stop in and say congratulations."
"I appreciate it," Seifer responded. Irvine smiled.
"Hey, before I go, do ya need anything for the twins?"
Seifer shrugged. "I really haven't a clue. I know there was a quick, ill-conceived baby shower attempt that didn't happen until after they were born. I know Rin took Squall's credit card and did some shopping for us..." Seifer grinned at the thought. "I might be able to put a mobile to use on their crib."
Irvine grinned. "You mean a cute little one with chicobos on it?"
"That just might work," Seifer answered.
"I think I can manage that." Seifer watched as he stepped out into the hallway and then watched the nurse that stepped inside.
"Good afternoon Sir."
"Afternoon," He said as he stood up. She smiled sweetly.
"I have good news Mr. Almasy. He's been cleared and can go home as soon as you can get him in a car seat." Seifer stared at her in shock.
"But what about his breathing and..."
"Trust me Sir. We wouldn't let him go if we thought there was a chance that something would happen to him," She pulled her clipboard up against her chest. "But you will have to be extra careful to keep him warm and to make sure there's no toys or anything in his crib that may inhibit his breathing while he's asleep." Seifer nodded slowly, still surprised at how soon he could take Blaine home.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
The navy colored sedan slowed to a stop as it neared the end of the driveway. The driver looked out at the lush overgrown landscaping uneasily.
"SAFE?" His wife asked in the seat beside him.
"We should be," He smiled encouragingly. She nodded absently as she looked out her window at the manor that loomed against the clouded sky. "C'mon. Let's get her inside." She slowly stepped from the vehicle as she watched him fumble with the car seat. The front door opened and she smiled warmly at the mammoth of a man that greeted them.
"Come on in. It looks like rain ya know. Don't want to get the little one wet ya know."
"Raijin," She smiled as she wrapped the man in a hug.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------
He had been walking around on slightly unsteady legs for who knew how long. He knew he was lost but he didn't care. It was growing increasingly obvious that he wasn't in any danger anyway. He started walking down the hallway to his right and paused at a familiar sight. In the doorway not fifty feet ahead of him he could see his grandson, Tempest, playing with something on the floor. His stomach growled, momentarily distracting him.
'I'll check on him and then go find something to eat,' He told himself. Taking a few strides forward he came across a very unexpected sound. It was crying, at least he thought it was. Pausing in front of the doorway on his left he tried to peek in. Gingerly placing his hand on the oak door he pushed it open just enough to see inside. The cries of a baby were all very audible. Now very curious he pushed the door open just a little more to see Ellone. A smile came to his lips as he tapped on the door lightly to alert her of his presence. She turned around quickly and looked at him in shock. A broad grin crossed her now pale features as she motioned for him to come in.
"Oh my goodness," She half-laughed half-cried. "Uncle Laguna." He smiled happily as he stepped towards her and brought her into a weak hug. "Oh I have so much to tell you." He smiled broadly, elated just to be able to talk to a family member after his ordeal.
"Wait a minute," He paused as the reality that the infant in her arms was too small to be Zell's. "Who's baby is this?"
Ellone grinned proudly. "He's mine. His name is Blade." Her news hit Laguna like a sac of bricks and the poor old man paled before he fainted and hit the floor with a thud.