DISCLAIMER: Ok it's Square, Square, Square! Not me!
CHAPTER 4: Wonderings
A warm breeze greeted her as she entered the Training Centre. Quistis closed her eyes and took a deep breath. The fresh air felt wonderful to her lungs. She unhooked her whip from her belt hanging around her slim waist as she proceeded towards the Secret Area.
The Training Centre is huge. Tropical trees surrounded the place making a jungle feel to it as you enter. Thick green bushes covered most of the perimeter of the place. The dirt covered concrete is home to the grats inhabiting the first part of the centre. This is for easy training. Most students prefer a stress reliever. In the deeper area is for maximum training, home to the t-rexaurs. Students refer to it as the "Hell Hole". That thought gave a chuckle to Quistis. You certainly won't leave that area without perspiration. The purpose of the training centre is to give the cadets a feel of what an actual battle is like. Therefore wild monsters are put up for some physical exercise. It can certainly be a dangerous place if you aren't prepared. Solid metal walls cover the perimeter of the place, electrified to prevent monsters escaping. It was specifically designed to test students' abilities under pressure against enemies. Even obstacles were placed such as fallen logs, boulders, dirt holes and ponds to emphasize a real life forest.
Quistis continued until she heard a hiss. She looked towards the direction its coming to see a couple of grats, tentacles raised high ready to attack her. Almost immediately she dropped into her fighting stance, whip ready to slash. She drew her arm back and twirled it around her head and brought it down hard on the nearest monster hitting it on the head. It gave a high shriek. It countered and tried to hit her with one of its tentacles. Quistis jumped out of the way and gave it another whip, this time sending it flying towards the other grat. The other casted Sleep on her but it's ineffective. Her level is too high to have any effect on her.
It's about time to finish them off, she thought silently. She closed her eyes as she casted Aura on herself. Feeling the power surge within her, she prepared to unleash her limit break. She bent her head feeling the power rise up. In a flash she let out Laser Eyes which hit the grats full force in their stomachs creating a hole. Both gave a high pitched shriek of pain as they collapsed to the ground.
She gave a smile of triumph. Easy as pie. She turned around to head to her destination only to stop short. Was that noises she heard?
The noises were different. It's not a monster could imitate. She heard muffled voices coming from the other side of the bridge. Hmm, are there students out this night late training, she wondered to herself. She heard muffled shots and cries of pain from the same type of monsters she just battled earlier. Walking slowly towards the noise, she crept up quietly. Through the thick bushes she saw a flash of tan.
Irvine, she continued. What on earth could he be doing at this hour? She heard another noise. Leaves rustling. She saw the cowboy point his gun towards it, hand ready to pull the trigger.
Out came a young man with messy blond hair, with the distinctive tattoo on the left side of his face. Quistis eyebrows shot up.
Zell?!
* * * * * * *
BANG!
The grat gave a final screech before dropping its whip like tentacles.
Ha! Irvine thought in triumph blowing the smoke coming out of the barrel of his Exeter. That's ten down!
Ever since he arrived in the centre he had been going on non stop fighting. He had been target practicing at the grats using their tentacles as targets. He had decided to warm up before facing some t-rex. Late night practices are always great. You have the whole place to yourself, no other students to bother you and take enemies away.
Somehow he always felt late practices kind of relaxing, almost peaceful. He gets to practice his gun twirling moves and perfect them for the ladies. Well it certainly wouldn't hurt if he could get a pretty girl to train with him. Irvine took a time to dwell in that thought for a while.
A sudden movement came out behind him. Whoever or whatever it was was doing a poor job being subtle. He spun around his gun ready aimed towards the noise.
Out came a figure wearing track shoes, pants and a singlet. His spiky blond hair standing as usual, his face set in its usual game face. Fists raised and body posed in a fierce fighting stance.
"Zell!?" Irvine clicking the safety of his gun as he moved it away from his fellow companion.
"Geez, what the hell are you doing here? Isn't it too late to be practicing around?" Zell exclaimed dropping his stance.
He shrugged in reply. "Can't sleep".
"What? You too? Thought I was the only one".
Irvine raised his eyebrows. It didn't strike him Zell to be in insomniac person. "Well how about it? Since we both can't get some shut eye wanna do some training?" he asked slinging his gun over his shoulder.
The blond's eyes lit up. "You bet!"
The two of them fought together side by side. Irvine performed his moves shooting at his targets hitting them perfectly. He was quick with his gun twirling it around, bullets shooting everywhere. He knew his gun well; it is as if it was part of him. The sound of his Exeter echoed throughout the place. He performed a difficult move as he twirled his gun behind his back then pulled the trigger. The blast gave a loud sound as it punctured the grat's body. It gave a high shriek as it shriveled up and collapsed to the dirt. He smiled in satisfaction.
Zell, on the other hand pounded on the grats with massive force. Whenever Irvine wasn't shooting he was in close range to his enemies performing difficult moves only a martial artist expert can do. He was like a blur, hands and feet moving in fast. His punches connected with the screeching grats making a painful sound as he hit them. He was deadly even without a weapon. He did a mach kick the tip of his foot connected across the grat's face. The grat flew sideways and fell to the ground with a thud.
"Yes!" Zell pumped a fist in the air.
A grat sneakily crept up to his back unnoticed by the blond fighter. Irvine quickly drew his gun and let out a loud bang. His left hand on the trigger while the other supporting the gun's barrel.
Zell spun around just in time to see it fall. He looked at his companion and raised his eyebrows in response.
"Sorry, pal. You're a little too slow on detecting hidden enemies. Thought I'd drop in to lend a hand", he said casually half smiling as if taunting Zell.
Zell let out a snort in reply. "Too slow? No way! I knew that grat was behind me. I was ready to give it a heel drop but you just beaten me to it".
Irvine hoisted his gun over his shoulder. "Whatever you say. Let's go find some more".
Zell, forgetting his slow comment started to look around for any moving enemies ready for action. Irvine moved to his side his gun level at his waist. His eyes moved from left to right searching every corner of the place.
Hey, where'd all the grats go?" Zell asked impatiently. He placed his hands on his hips. It was suddenly quiet, not a sound to be heard. This is unusual inside the training place. Not even a gentle breeze came by.
"Strange. Why so quiet all of the sudden?" Irvine wondered out loud. A few leaves rustled nearby.
"Maybe I scared them. He he", Zell chuckled, a cheeky smile spread over his tattooed face.
"I doubt that" Irvine replied as he moved on next to a thick bush and continued to observe his surroundings. The silence was eerie. It is as if he and Zell were the only two living beings left in this place. He frowned.
Zell on the other hand walked a few feet beside some tall trees. He searched for anything capable of damage for them. A heavy feeling came over him as he remembered his nightmare clear in every detail possible. He shook it off. Tch, Dincht! Get a hold of yourself! You came here to forget it, he reminded himself. He shook his head. He walked back to Irvine. "Man! This is stupid! Let's go and find a t-rexaur. These grats are useless anyway".
"Yeah, you're probably right".
A twig snapped behind them. Both dropped into their fighting stances as they braced for whatever was to come next.
"Whoa! Take it easy. I'm not going to bite" said a soft feminine voice. She stepped into the light to reveal herself. Quistis stood there with her Save the Queen clutched tightly in one hand.
"Whew! Thought you were a grat or something" Zell said as he wiped his brow. He flashed her his usual grin.
"Sorry to disappoint you. There seems to be no grats left. Did you two finish them all?"
"I guess. Though the wuss here didn't do as well as I did" Irvine teased adjusting his hat. He gave Zell as snide grin.
"What did you say?!" he countered as he took a menacing step towards the sharpshooter.
"Enough. This is ridiculous. Stop this nonsense right away" Quistis warned crossing her arms across her chest. She gave a disapproving look.
Zell stopped and scowled.
"Well then, what do you say, Quisty? Join Zell and me to train?" Irvine asked.
"Sure".
"Why are you here anyway? I didn't know you do some late night training?" Zell asked.
She hesitated. Can she tell them the truth? Yes, they had been through a lot. In more ways people can ever do. She knew them well enough to trust them with her life. Her nightmares were probably the result of her everyday worries and stress. It's nothing serious and she doesn't really see the point in drowning her friends about her senseless problems. She shrugged. "I thought I'd stay over in the Secret Area tonight to do some thinking. Since I ran into you guys I think maybe some training might do me better".
So you're keeping secrets from your friends now is that it? One after the other the secrets will pile up, a familiar voice echoed in her head. Quistis frowned. It was her own. A sense of guilt washed over her.
"Yeah, Instructor. Let's just kick some monster butts!" Zell exclaimed interrupting her thoughts. Quistis smiled at the idea, glad to have a break from her pondering thoughts.
Irvine was watching her closely. Just for a fraction of a second he saw something change in her eyes. She looked troubled. Almost scared. He wondered what was really going on. He didn't have time to analyze this thing. If they were to fight off a rex they need to be on guard and prepared. He turned back to his companions. "I'll go on ahead. If a t- rex comes I'll be there to warn you".
With that said the sharpshooter cocked his gun and aimed in front of him as he entered the monster's lair.
Zell cracked his knuckles loudly then swung his fists as if pretending to be punching an imaginary punching bag in front of him. "We'll be ready!"
Quistis in turn focused on her battle techniques in preparation for a battle. She got her whip ready as she followed Irvine through the grassy area where the rex are. Zell was right at her heels. Right now she couldn't really think of a better way to take her mind off her problems. It was a good way as the rex's heavy footsteps became nearer and nearer.
Zell was following his former instructor towards the rex pondering about his own troubles earlier. When he came across his friends he pretty much thought they were here to train to pass the time. Now he suspects that they were bothered too. Yeah, everyone gets problems. It seems like it goes deeper than that. His thoughts were interrupted by a loud roar. "Alright! Let's go, baby!"
He dropped into his fighting stance after he stretched his muscles. He heard a shot being fired to the monster as it roared in pain. It countered as it attempted to bite Irvine, but he was quicker jumping out of the way.
Quistis cast the darkness spell towards the enemy when her turn came. It was useful as it kept on missing them with its attacks.
"Here I go! I'm gonna kick you sorry ass!" Zell felt his adrenaline rush as he ran towards his target. He gave it his Booya punching all his might. He heard a painful roar as he hit it harder. He performed his Mach kick followed by a Heel Drop feeling his energy surround himself as he summoned it to do his finishing move. A light glow surrounded his body as he prepared in concentration to unleash his power. He punched the ground so hard it cracked sending towards the ground where the t-rexaur stood. Burning Rave is a lethal and dangerous most especially to ground enemies. The monster growled as it hit it full force. It staggered as it dropped clumsily to the ground. Unfortunately, it's a persistent monster not about to go down without a fight and once again stood up.
Irvine gave it a shot puncturing the side of its neck. The t-rexaur spun around so fast they didn't have time to respond. Its tail connected to the three of them sending them to their knees.
"Ugh! Damn that thing" he gasped as he clutched his left shoulder. The tail hit him the hardest tearing open the sleeve of his coat leaving an open wound. Blood ran down his arm. The darkness spell had worn off.
"Hold on. I'll cast us curaga" Quistis said as she closes her eyes to cast it. She made sure to cast a triple spell beforehand to make sure all the party is replenished. She had been hit but it wasn't as bad as Irvine. The tail came as near as grazing the skin of her stomach. She felt the cure taking effect as it refreshed her. She opened her eyes and saw the wound on Irvine's arm had closed but still leaving a mark.
"That's it! I'm gonna give you the beating of your life!" Zell growled angrily. He summoned Brothers do so some damage for the monster. He felt the power of the Guardian Force as it filled his body, soul and mind. He stretched out his arms as he unleashed the GF. Sure enough, the two brothers did a huge amount of damage to the monster.
Zell grinned and pumped his fists in the air. The battle wasn't finished yet, however. T-rexaurs are very tough to beat. They have a large amount of HP. The monster is powerful. It attempted to bite him, but he dodged it. He felt a stinging pain in his right hand. He looked down. A long cut ran from the middle of his palm to his wrist. Blood dripped down to the ground. Oh, hell! He cursed silently. This wound is gonna lessen the impact of my blows. He looked over to his companions. Both were too busy on their target. The monster's teeth must have grazed his hand as he dodged it. He didn't bring any items with him. He cursed himself for being stupid. His hurry to the Training Centre led him to forget the important little details for battle. Oh well, can't do anything much now, he thought. He watched carefully as the t-rex eyed him. Uh oh, I think he wants me for dessert, he continued.
"Whoa! Aaargh!" he cried as he tried quickly to dodge its attacks. The monster lost interest to the other two to pursue only him. He turned around and fled down the opposite way from the monster. He clutched his injured hand as he ran. The Training Centre is especially made to hunt down enemies. There were lots of bushes, rocks and trees that surrounded the place. All were a blur of green and brown as he dashed. He doesn't know where he was heading. All he wanted to do is get away from the monster. A big boulder loomed up ahead. Zell glanced back. Yep, the monster is still chasing him. Each step making a low rumble from the ground. With mouth open wide, saliva dripping down and razor sharp teeth like a row of sharp knives, the giant lizard sure looks fearsome.
He boosted his energy. As the boulder grew nearer he took a mighty leap. Arms outstretched and legs flailing he sailed over the boulder landing on both feet. Yes! He cried triumphantly. However, his victory is short lived. The rex smashed the huge rock cracking it into a million pieces. Tiny pieces of rocks flew everywhere hitting trees and landing in a nearby pond the force of it giving a mighty gust of wind. The leaves of the trees swayed, but still clung on to their branches for dear life.
Zell's face fell. Uh oh, he gulped. He turned around in a flash and continued running. Man, doesn't this idiot ever give up? He thought irritated. A huge metal wall came up. He's reached the perimeter of the Centre. Tall, thick walls made out of solid metal have ended his escape. Its thick surface made it impossible for bullets to pierce it. More than 20 meters high it's going to be a long climb to get to the top. It is after all to keep monsters inside and prevent them escaping.
The loud thunderous footsteps slowed. The monster gave a roar which deafened his ears and made leaves tremble. It is as if to say "I've won". The hideous monster ran a long slick tongue over its sharp teeth. Zell backed off. It seemed to enjoy stalking him as if toying with a prey.
This is gonna get ugly, the martial artist thought. He prepared himself. Every single muscle tensed and ready to attack. His eyes sharp, detecting any sudden movements the monster might make.
The rex stood upright towering Zell at 15 feet tall. It dove, nose first towards the spiky blond fighter, mouth opened wide to swallow him whole.
Zell, sensing this was going to happen tried to jump to his right avoiding a painful bite. He slammed full force into a wall of rock hitting his right shoulder. Sharp pain shot through his right side spreading down his arm. He bit back a cry. He clutched his shoulder which has blood gushing out of a wound. Head feeling dizzy, he actually thought he saw stars dancing around his head. He gave a quick shake trying to clear his vision. He looked up. And wished he didn't.
The monster still had its head down. It was eye to eye level with him. Less than five feet ways, he could see every detail of its face. Its lizard like eyes was opened to tiny slits. Both were pinpointed at him. Its skin so scaly, a mixture of dark red and green which was covered in dirt. Blood was seeping out from the bullet punctures Irvine gave out earlier. Its teeth are the ones that made him nervous. Sharp rows of slicers close together. Just one bite could tear him apart like a piece of meat. It gave a low growl once again, letting out a hot gust of wind towards him. A foul, putrid smell invaded his nostrils.
Phew! If I don't die from being lizard food I might just die of the smell, he thought sourly.
Then something happened. The ground started to shake. He knew it couldn't be the rex. The shaking was odd. Rocks shook and the nearly bushes trembled. The ground split and crack, the noise deafening. The rex distracted took a step back. As quick as the shaking had occurred a big wall of solid rock rose up from the crack. It rose well high towering over the monster.
"Back off you big creep!"
Zell turned towards the voice and saw none other than his friend Selphie.
"Whoa! Selphie!"
His petite friend had apparently casted Wall to him protecting him against any attacks from the monster.
"Hang on, Zell!"
He watched her as she closed her bright green eyes in concentration. A green glow surrounded her and expanded as she continued to concentrate. She then opened her eyes and glared at his attacker.
"Go and pick on somebody you own size, you big meanie!" Selphie shouted. She released that magic energy aiming it to the enemy. It only took Zell to realize for a while that she had casted Ultima, a deadly and powerful magic.
It hit the monster square in the chest. It gave a painful roar. It twitched and roared some more, its cries expressing the damage it's taking. Finally it collapsed to the ground with a loud thud. Dust flew around the dead body clouding Zell's vision. He coughed.
"Zell! Omigosh! Are you ok?" Selphie rushed to her injured friend, alarmed.
He coughed some more and smiled weakly. "Wow...way to go, Selph". Talking so caused him to grimace in pain.
"Hmm. You'll need a few curagas to help seal those wounds", she replied examining him closely.
"I'll live".
"Lucky for you I came, huh? Don't worry I've got heaps of stock of curagas". She prepared to cast it to the brash fighter, but paused, "Saved your butt, huh?"
"Yeah...I owe you one".
Selphie cured her friend. Zell could feel his wounds getting less painful. The instant cool light enveloped him giving him a refreshing new feeling. He then looked at his wounds. All had been closed up. A few battle marks remained here and there.
Footsteps came up suddenly towards the pair.
"Selphie. Zell", a quiet voice spoke.
Both looked up from the ground to see Squall standing over them, gunblade in one hand.
"Are you two alright?" he continued.
"Squall!" Selphie exclaimed. "Omigosh! You missed all the action! Zell nearly got barbequed by the rex and he was wounded and bleeding, I swear I thought this time he could be dinner by that horrible monster and I felt so scared at the time –"
"Whoa, whoa! Breathe, Selphie breathe!" Zell interrupted amazed at how a person can talk a mile a minute. Especially a small statured person like Selphie.
Squall just smiled at them a little, the corners of his mouth curving upwards. Looks like they're both fine, he said quietly in relief. He had followed Selphie towards the Training Centre. However, he had lost her for a while once inside. He followed the commotion of ground rumbling, ear splitting roars just in time to see her rescue Zell.
Rapid footsteps came up and stopped short a few feet away.
"Zell! Are you alright?" Quistis asked alarmed when she saw him sprawled on the ground. Another set of footsteps came up and revealed Irvine.
"Selphie? Squall? What are you guys doing here?" the cowboy asked surprised. Smoke was still coming out of the barrel from his gun.
Squall gave a mere shrug. "Thought some late night training would do me good".
Selphie looked up from where she is. "Uhh...same here! I couldn't really sleep tonight so I thought I might give the grats some whacking. Maybe it's those hotdogs I ate for dinner".
"Hey! Those hotdogs are perfectly fine" Zell protested beside her.
"Oh really? Then I guess you slept well tonight seeing I saw you eat more than ten!" Selphie retorted huffily crossing her arms. She looked at him challengely.
"Err..." Zell started. He scratched his head. He couldn't think up of a good comeback. "I decided to practice My Final Heaven. You know how hard that move is. And I gotta keep up my tip top shape".
Selphie just raised her eyebrows at his as if debating whether to buy his story or not.
Quistis sighed. "Come on you two. Let's just drop this. I was only meant to come here to clear my head. I didn't expect this to happen". She coiled her whip and attached it to her belt.
Irvine stepped up and helped Selphie to her feet. "My reason's the same as yours, Squall". Squall gave a hand to Zell as he helped him up.
"Well. I guess the party's just started".
"Some party. Nearly got my butt toasted by a dinosaur", Zell grumbled as he dusted off his clothes.
"It is a little weird how we all can't sleep at the same time. Oooh, is something going on?" Selphie asked her voice dropping low as she suspected. She looked at each of her friends.
"Like a mystery? Hmm, maybe those hotdogs really did get to ya", Zell teased her tsk-tsking. In return she gave him a light punch on his arm.
"Uh oh. Watch out, Zell. Selphie just might be the one to toast you butt", Irvine said shaking his head at the two.
Quistis crossed her arms. "Well in any case Selphie is right. It is strange about this unexpected meeting." She gave a long sigh. "I have been distressed lately on the topic of sleeping. It seems that "she" has been haunting me. Strange to think so. After all, she is dead." Her expression was dark. No one has ever seen her so haunted.
Zell just stared at her in surprise. "You're kidding, right? No way. I've been seeing her lately in my dreams too. Geez! Can't she just leave us alone?!" he shuddered. Anger was rising within him. Those haunting images visited his mind once more. He clenched his fists hard. Irvine put a hand on his shoulder.
"Hey, man. Don't let a stupid dream get to ya. Since when did chicken wuss become a scaredy cat?"
Squall was observing him carefully. Irvine's attempt for a joke failed. His face betrayed his words. He knew he had his share of the nightmares. Still something doesn't add up. Is Ultimecia still alive? How? Since when? There are a lot of questions but missing answers. This is insane, Squall thought. Selphie spoke his thoughts.
"Err...hey guys! This is outta this world! I mean, yeah so what if we're having nightmares about that creepy evil witch? It doesn't mean anything right? We have been through a lot, y'know. Maybe this is just stress. Uh...oops kinda went on again huh?" Selphie felt her cheeks grow warm. She wasn't planning on letting her friends know that she's a victim too. She shuffled her feet.
"Post-traumatic stress syndrome?" Quistis wondered aloud brushing back her hair.
"Listen. We probably won't get anywhere tonight. We've got more problems to handle. Like the meeting we have in the morning." Squall pointed out.
"Oh yeah, the Orphanage project! It'll be so cool to rebuild our old home again" Selphie squealed excitedly. Zell agreed.
"At least we get to do something important again".
"Ok. I guess it's off to bed now. Sounds like we're loaded tomorrow" Irvine said yawning and stretching his arms.
The group started heading towards the exit doors chatting quietly. Squall stayed a little behind the group, thoughts still clouding his mind. The eerie silence still hung around the Centre making it seem like a different place. A soft breeze flew past rustling some leaves.
He stopped and looked back. "Ultimecia, somehow if it is you I won't hesitate to plunge my gunblade into your heart again. I promise", his whispered. He turned back and joined his group.
Author's note: Another chappy done! Sorry it took ages for me to write. Anyway thanks for all the people who reviewed. Hope you enjoy this one too. Keep reading and reviewing!
PS: Gosh, I'm totally addicted to FFX-2! It rocks!
CHAPTER 4: Wonderings
A warm breeze greeted her as she entered the Training Centre. Quistis closed her eyes and took a deep breath. The fresh air felt wonderful to her lungs. She unhooked her whip from her belt hanging around her slim waist as she proceeded towards the Secret Area.
The Training Centre is huge. Tropical trees surrounded the place making a jungle feel to it as you enter. Thick green bushes covered most of the perimeter of the place. The dirt covered concrete is home to the grats inhabiting the first part of the centre. This is for easy training. Most students prefer a stress reliever. In the deeper area is for maximum training, home to the t-rexaurs. Students refer to it as the "Hell Hole". That thought gave a chuckle to Quistis. You certainly won't leave that area without perspiration. The purpose of the training centre is to give the cadets a feel of what an actual battle is like. Therefore wild monsters are put up for some physical exercise. It can certainly be a dangerous place if you aren't prepared. Solid metal walls cover the perimeter of the place, electrified to prevent monsters escaping. It was specifically designed to test students' abilities under pressure against enemies. Even obstacles were placed such as fallen logs, boulders, dirt holes and ponds to emphasize a real life forest.
Quistis continued until she heard a hiss. She looked towards the direction its coming to see a couple of grats, tentacles raised high ready to attack her. Almost immediately she dropped into her fighting stance, whip ready to slash. She drew her arm back and twirled it around her head and brought it down hard on the nearest monster hitting it on the head. It gave a high shriek. It countered and tried to hit her with one of its tentacles. Quistis jumped out of the way and gave it another whip, this time sending it flying towards the other grat. The other casted Sleep on her but it's ineffective. Her level is too high to have any effect on her.
It's about time to finish them off, she thought silently. She closed her eyes as she casted Aura on herself. Feeling the power surge within her, she prepared to unleash her limit break. She bent her head feeling the power rise up. In a flash she let out Laser Eyes which hit the grats full force in their stomachs creating a hole. Both gave a high pitched shriek of pain as they collapsed to the ground.
She gave a smile of triumph. Easy as pie. She turned around to head to her destination only to stop short. Was that noises she heard?
The noises were different. It's not a monster could imitate. She heard muffled voices coming from the other side of the bridge. Hmm, are there students out this night late training, she wondered to herself. She heard muffled shots and cries of pain from the same type of monsters she just battled earlier. Walking slowly towards the noise, she crept up quietly. Through the thick bushes she saw a flash of tan.
Irvine, she continued. What on earth could he be doing at this hour? She heard another noise. Leaves rustling. She saw the cowboy point his gun towards it, hand ready to pull the trigger.
Out came a young man with messy blond hair, with the distinctive tattoo on the left side of his face. Quistis eyebrows shot up.
Zell?!
* * * * * * *
BANG!
The grat gave a final screech before dropping its whip like tentacles.
Ha! Irvine thought in triumph blowing the smoke coming out of the barrel of his Exeter. That's ten down!
Ever since he arrived in the centre he had been going on non stop fighting. He had been target practicing at the grats using their tentacles as targets. He had decided to warm up before facing some t-rex. Late night practices are always great. You have the whole place to yourself, no other students to bother you and take enemies away.
Somehow he always felt late practices kind of relaxing, almost peaceful. He gets to practice his gun twirling moves and perfect them for the ladies. Well it certainly wouldn't hurt if he could get a pretty girl to train with him. Irvine took a time to dwell in that thought for a while.
A sudden movement came out behind him. Whoever or whatever it was was doing a poor job being subtle. He spun around his gun ready aimed towards the noise.
Out came a figure wearing track shoes, pants and a singlet. His spiky blond hair standing as usual, his face set in its usual game face. Fists raised and body posed in a fierce fighting stance.
"Zell!?" Irvine clicking the safety of his gun as he moved it away from his fellow companion.
"Geez, what the hell are you doing here? Isn't it too late to be practicing around?" Zell exclaimed dropping his stance.
He shrugged in reply. "Can't sleep".
"What? You too? Thought I was the only one".
Irvine raised his eyebrows. It didn't strike him Zell to be in insomniac person. "Well how about it? Since we both can't get some shut eye wanna do some training?" he asked slinging his gun over his shoulder.
The blond's eyes lit up. "You bet!"
The two of them fought together side by side. Irvine performed his moves shooting at his targets hitting them perfectly. He was quick with his gun twirling it around, bullets shooting everywhere. He knew his gun well; it is as if it was part of him. The sound of his Exeter echoed throughout the place. He performed a difficult move as he twirled his gun behind his back then pulled the trigger. The blast gave a loud sound as it punctured the grat's body. It gave a high shriek as it shriveled up and collapsed to the dirt. He smiled in satisfaction.
Zell, on the other hand pounded on the grats with massive force. Whenever Irvine wasn't shooting he was in close range to his enemies performing difficult moves only a martial artist expert can do. He was like a blur, hands and feet moving in fast. His punches connected with the screeching grats making a painful sound as he hit them. He was deadly even without a weapon. He did a mach kick the tip of his foot connected across the grat's face. The grat flew sideways and fell to the ground with a thud.
"Yes!" Zell pumped a fist in the air.
A grat sneakily crept up to his back unnoticed by the blond fighter. Irvine quickly drew his gun and let out a loud bang. His left hand on the trigger while the other supporting the gun's barrel.
Zell spun around just in time to see it fall. He looked at his companion and raised his eyebrows in response.
"Sorry, pal. You're a little too slow on detecting hidden enemies. Thought I'd drop in to lend a hand", he said casually half smiling as if taunting Zell.
Zell let out a snort in reply. "Too slow? No way! I knew that grat was behind me. I was ready to give it a heel drop but you just beaten me to it".
Irvine hoisted his gun over his shoulder. "Whatever you say. Let's go find some more".
Zell, forgetting his slow comment started to look around for any moving enemies ready for action. Irvine moved to his side his gun level at his waist. His eyes moved from left to right searching every corner of the place.
Hey, where'd all the grats go?" Zell asked impatiently. He placed his hands on his hips. It was suddenly quiet, not a sound to be heard. This is unusual inside the training place. Not even a gentle breeze came by.
"Strange. Why so quiet all of the sudden?" Irvine wondered out loud. A few leaves rustled nearby.
"Maybe I scared them. He he", Zell chuckled, a cheeky smile spread over his tattooed face.
"I doubt that" Irvine replied as he moved on next to a thick bush and continued to observe his surroundings. The silence was eerie. It is as if he and Zell were the only two living beings left in this place. He frowned.
Zell on the other hand walked a few feet beside some tall trees. He searched for anything capable of damage for them. A heavy feeling came over him as he remembered his nightmare clear in every detail possible. He shook it off. Tch, Dincht! Get a hold of yourself! You came here to forget it, he reminded himself. He shook his head. He walked back to Irvine. "Man! This is stupid! Let's go and find a t-rexaur. These grats are useless anyway".
"Yeah, you're probably right".
A twig snapped behind them. Both dropped into their fighting stances as they braced for whatever was to come next.
"Whoa! Take it easy. I'm not going to bite" said a soft feminine voice. She stepped into the light to reveal herself. Quistis stood there with her Save the Queen clutched tightly in one hand.
"Whew! Thought you were a grat or something" Zell said as he wiped his brow. He flashed her his usual grin.
"Sorry to disappoint you. There seems to be no grats left. Did you two finish them all?"
"I guess. Though the wuss here didn't do as well as I did" Irvine teased adjusting his hat. He gave Zell as snide grin.
"What did you say?!" he countered as he took a menacing step towards the sharpshooter.
"Enough. This is ridiculous. Stop this nonsense right away" Quistis warned crossing her arms across her chest. She gave a disapproving look.
Zell stopped and scowled.
"Well then, what do you say, Quisty? Join Zell and me to train?" Irvine asked.
"Sure".
"Why are you here anyway? I didn't know you do some late night training?" Zell asked.
She hesitated. Can she tell them the truth? Yes, they had been through a lot. In more ways people can ever do. She knew them well enough to trust them with her life. Her nightmares were probably the result of her everyday worries and stress. It's nothing serious and she doesn't really see the point in drowning her friends about her senseless problems. She shrugged. "I thought I'd stay over in the Secret Area tonight to do some thinking. Since I ran into you guys I think maybe some training might do me better".
So you're keeping secrets from your friends now is that it? One after the other the secrets will pile up, a familiar voice echoed in her head. Quistis frowned. It was her own. A sense of guilt washed over her.
"Yeah, Instructor. Let's just kick some monster butts!" Zell exclaimed interrupting her thoughts. Quistis smiled at the idea, glad to have a break from her pondering thoughts.
Irvine was watching her closely. Just for a fraction of a second he saw something change in her eyes. She looked troubled. Almost scared. He wondered what was really going on. He didn't have time to analyze this thing. If they were to fight off a rex they need to be on guard and prepared. He turned back to his companions. "I'll go on ahead. If a t- rex comes I'll be there to warn you".
With that said the sharpshooter cocked his gun and aimed in front of him as he entered the monster's lair.
Zell cracked his knuckles loudly then swung his fists as if pretending to be punching an imaginary punching bag in front of him. "We'll be ready!"
Quistis in turn focused on her battle techniques in preparation for a battle. She got her whip ready as she followed Irvine through the grassy area where the rex are. Zell was right at her heels. Right now she couldn't really think of a better way to take her mind off her problems. It was a good way as the rex's heavy footsteps became nearer and nearer.
Zell was following his former instructor towards the rex pondering about his own troubles earlier. When he came across his friends he pretty much thought they were here to train to pass the time. Now he suspects that they were bothered too. Yeah, everyone gets problems. It seems like it goes deeper than that. His thoughts were interrupted by a loud roar. "Alright! Let's go, baby!"
He dropped into his fighting stance after he stretched his muscles. He heard a shot being fired to the monster as it roared in pain. It countered as it attempted to bite Irvine, but he was quicker jumping out of the way.
Quistis cast the darkness spell towards the enemy when her turn came. It was useful as it kept on missing them with its attacks.
"Here I go! I'm gonna kick you sorry ass!" Zell felt his adrenaline rush as he ran towards his target. He gave it his Booya punching all his might. He heard a painful roar as he hit it harder. He performed his Mach kick followed by a Heel Drop feeling his energy surround himself as he summoned it to do his finishing move. A light glow surrounded his body as he prepared in concentration to unleash his power. He punched the ground so hard it cracked sending towards the ground where the t-rexaur stood. Burning Rave is a lethal and dangerous most especially to ground enemies. The monster growled as it hit it full force. It staggered as it dropped clumsily to the ground. Unfortunately, it's a persistent monster not about to go down without a fight and once again stood up.
Irvine gave it a shot puncturing the side of its neck. The t-rexaur spun around so fast they didn't have time to respond. Its tail connected to the three of them sending them to their knees.
"Ugh! Damn that thing" he gasped as he clutched his left shoulder. The tail hit him the hardest tearing open the sleeve of his coat leaving an open wound. Blood ran down his arm. The darkness spell had worn off.
"Hold on. I'll cast us curaga" Quistis said as she closes her eyes to cast it. She made sure to cast a triple spell beforehand to make sure all the party is replenished. She had been hit but it wasn't as bad as Irvine. The tail came as near as grazing the skin of her stomach. She felt the cure taking effect as it refreshed her. She opened her eyes and saw the wound on Irvine's arm had closed but still leaving a mark.
"That's it! I'm gonna give you the beating of your life!" Zell growled angrily. He summoned Brothers do so some damage for the monster. He felt the power of the Guardian Force as it filled his body, soul and mind. He stretched out his arms as he unleashed the GF. Sure enough, the two brothers did a huge amount of damage to the monster.
Zell grinned and pumped his fists in the air. The battle wasn't finished yet, however. T-rexaurs are very tough to beat. They have a large amount of HP. The monster is powerful. It attempted to bite him, but he dodged it. He felt a stinging pain in his right hand. He looked down. A long cut ran from the middle of his palm to his wrist. Blood dripped down to the ground. Oh, hell! He cursed silently. This wound is gonna lessen the impact of my blows. He looked over to his companions. Both were too busy on their target. The monster's teeth must have grazed his hand as he dodged it. He didn't bring any items with him. He cursed himself for being stupid. His hurry to the Training Centre led him to forget the important little details for battle. Oh well, can't do anything much now, he thought. He watched carefully as the t-rex eyed him. Uh oh, I think he wants me for dessert, he continued.
"Whoa! Aaargh!" he cried as he tried quickly to dodge its attacks. The monster lost interest to the other two to pursue only him. He turned around and fled down the opposite way from the monster. He clutched his injured hand as he ran. The Training Centre is especially made to hunt down enemies. There were lots of bushes, rocks and trees that surrounded the place. All were a blur of green and brown as he dashed. He doesn't know where he was heading. All he wanted to do is get away from the monster. A big boulder loomed up ahead. Zell glanced back. Yep, the monster is still chasing him. Each step making a low rumble from the ground. With mouth open wide, saliva dripping down and razor sharp teeth like a row of sharp knives, the giant lizard sure looks fearsome.
He boosted his energy. As the boulder grew nearer he took a mighty leap. Arms outstretched and legs flailing he sailed over the boulder landing on both feet. Yes! He cried triumphantly. However, his victory is short lived. The rex smashed the huge rock cracking it into a million pieces. Tiny pieces of rocks flew everywhere hitting trees and landing in a nearby pond the force of it giving a mighty gust of wind. The leaves of the trees swayed, but still clung on to their branches for dear life.
Zell's face fell. Uh oh, he gulped. He turned around in a flash and continued running. Man, doesn't this idiot ever give up? He thought irritated. A huge metal wall came up. He's reached the perimeter of the Centre. Tall, thick walls made out of solid metal have ended his escape. Its thick surface made it impossible for bullets to pierce it. More than 20 meters high it's going to be a long climb to get to the top. It is after all to keep monsters inside and prevent them escaping.
The loud thunderous footsteps slowed. The monster gave a roar which deafened his ears and made leaves tremble. It is as if to say "I've won". The hideous monster ran a long slick tongue over its sharp teeth. Zell backed off. It seemed to enjoy stalking him as if toying with a prey.
This is gonna get ugly, the martial artist thought. He prepared himself. Every single muscle tensed and ready to attack. His eyes sharp, detecting any sudden movements the monster might make.
The rex stood upright towering Zell at 15 feet tall. It dove, nose first towards the spiky blond fighter, mouth opened wide to swallow him whole.
Zell, sensing this was going to happen tried to jump to his right avoiding a painful bite. He slammed full force into a wall of rock hitting his right shoulder. Sharp pain shot through his right side spreading down his arm. He bit back a cry. He clutched his shoulder which has blood gushing out of a wound. Head feeling dizzy, he actually thought he saw stars dancing around his head. He gave a quick shake trying to clear his vision. He looked up. And wished he didn't.
The monster still had its head down. It was eye to eye level with him. Less than five feet ways, he could see every detail of its face. Its lizard like eyes was opened to tiny slits. Both were pinpointed at him. Its skin so scaly, a mixture of dark red and green which was covered in dirt. Blood was seeping out from the bullet punctures Irvine gave out earlier. Its teeth are the ones that made him nervous. Sharp rows of slicers close together. Just one bite could tear him apart like a piece of meat. It gave a low growl once again, letting out a hot gust of wind towards him. A foul, putrid smell invaded his nostrils.
Phew! If I don't die from being lizard food I might just die of the smell, he thought sourly.
Then something happened. The ground started to shake. He knew it couldn't be the rex. The shaking was odd. Rocks shook and the nearly bushes trembled. The ground split and crack, the noise deafening. The rex distracted took a step back. As quick as the shaking had occurred a big wall of solid rock rose up from the crack. It rose well high towering over the monster.
"Back off you big creep!"
Zell turned towards the voice and saw none other than his friend Selphie.
"Whoa! Selphie!"
His petite friend had apparently casted Wall to him protecting him against any attacks from the monster.
"Hang on, Zell!"
He watched her as she closed her bright green eyes in concentration. A green glow surrounded her and expanded as she continued to concentrate. She then opened her eyes and glared at his attacker.
"Go and pick on somebody you own size, you big meanie!" Selphie shouted. She released that magic energy aiming it to the enemy. It only took Zell to realize for a while that she had casted Ultima, a deadly and powerful magic.
It hit the monster square in the chest. It gave a painful roar. It twitched and roared some more, its cries expressing the damage it's taking. Finally it collapsed to the ground with a loud thud. Dust flew around the dead body clouding Zell's vision. He coughed.
"Zell! Omigosh! Are you ok?" Selphie rushed to her injured friend, alarmed.
He coughed some more and smiled weakly. "Wow...way to go, Selph". Talking so caused him to grimace in pain.
"Hmm. You'll need a few curagas to help seal those wounds", she replied examining him closely.
"I'll live".
"Lucky for you I came, huh? Don't worry I've got heaps of stock of curagas". She prepared to cast it to the brash fighter, but paused, "Saved your butt, huh?"
"Yeah...I owe you one".
Selphie cured her friend. Zell could feel his wounds getting less painful. The instant cool light enveloped him giving him a refreshing new feeling. He then looked at his wounds. All had been closed up. A few battle marks remained here and there.
Footsteps came up suddenly towards the pair.
"Selphie. Zell", a quiet voice spoke.
Both looked up from the ground to see Squall standing over them, gunblade in one hand.
"Are you two alright?" he continued.
"Squall!" Selphie exclaimed. "Omigosh! You missed all the action! Zell nearly got barbequed by the rex and he was wounded and bleeding, I swear I thought this time he could be dinner by that horrible monster and I felt so scared at the time –"
"Whoa, whoa! Breathe, Selphie breathe!" Zell interrupted amazed at how a person can talk a mile a minute. Especially a small statured person like Selphie.
Squall just smiled at them a little, the corners of his mouth curving upwards. Looks like they're both fine, he said quietly in relief. He had followed Selphie towards the Training Centre. However, he had lost her for a while once inside. He followed the commotion of ground rumbling, ear splitting roars just in time to see her rescue Zell.
Rapid footsteps came up and stopped short a few feet away.
"Zell! Are you alright?" Quistis asked alarmed when she saw him sprawled on the ground. Another set of footsteps came up and revealed Irvine.
"Selphie? Squall? What are you guys doing here?" the cowboy asked surprised. Smoke was still coming out of the barrel from his gun.
Squall gave a mere shrug. "Thought some late night training would do me good".
Selphie looked up from where she is. "Uhh...same here! I couldn't really sleep tonight so I thought I might give the grats some whacking. Maybe it's those hotdogs I ate for dinner".
"Hey! Those hotdogs are perfectly fine" Zell protested beside her.
"Oh really? Then I guess you slept well tonight seeing I saw you eat more than ten!" Selphie retorted huffily crossing her arms. She looked at him challengely.
"Err..." Zell started. He scratched his head. He couldn't think up of a good comeback. "I decided to practice My Final Heaven. You know how hard that move is. And I gotta keep up my tip top shape".
Selphie just raised her eyebrows at his as if debating whether to buy his story or not.
Quistis sighed. "Come on you two. Let's just drop this. I was only meant to come here to clear my head. I didn't expect this to happen". She coiled her whip and attached it to her belt.
Irvine stepped up and helped Selphie to her feet. "My reason's the same as yours, Squall". Squall gave a hand to Zell as he helped him up.
"Well. I guess the party's just started".
"Some party. Nearly got my butt toasted by a dinosaur", Zell grumbled as he dusted off his clothes.
"It is a little weird how we all can't sleep at the same time. Oooh, is something going on?" Selphie asked her voice dropping low as she suspected. She looked at each of her friends.
"Like a mystery? Hmm, maybe those hotdogs really did get to ya", Zell teased her tsk-tsking. In return she gave him a light punch on his arm.
"Uh oh. Watch out, Zell. Selphie just might be the one to toast you butt", Irvine said shaking his head at the two.
Quistis crossed her arms. "Well in any case Selphie is right. It is strange about this unexpected meeting." She gave a long sigh. "I have been distressed lately on the topic of sleeping. It seems that "she" has been haunting me. Strange to think so. After all, she is dead." Her expression was dark. No one has ever seen her so haunted.
Zell just stared at her in surprise. "You're kidding, right? No way. I've been seeing her lately in my dreams too. Geez! Can't she just leave us alone?!" he shuddered. Anger was rising within him. Those haunting images visited his mind once more. He clenched his fists hard. Irvine put a hand on his shoulder.
"Hey, man. Don't let a stupid dream get to ya. Since when did chicken wuss become a scaredy cat?"
Squall was observing him carefully. Irvine's attempt for a joke failed. His face betrayed his words. He knew he had his share of the nightmares. Still something doesn't add up. Is Ultimecia still alive? How? Since when? There are a lot of questions but missing answers. This is insane, Squall thought. Selphie spoke his thoughts.
"Err...hey guys! This is outta this world! I mean, yeah so what if we're having nightmares about that creepy evil witch? It doesn't mean anything right? We have been through a lot, y'know. Maybe this is just stress. Uh...oops kinda went on again huh?" Selphie felt her cheeks grow warm. She wasn't planning on letting her friends know that she's a victim too. She shuffled her feet.
"Post-traumatic stress syndrome?" Quistis wondered aloud brushing back her hair.
"Listen. We probably won't get anywhere tonight. We've got more problems to handle. Like the meeting we have in the morning." Squall pointed out.
"Oh yeah, the Orphanage project! It'll be so cool to rebuild our old home again" Selphie squealed excitedly. Zell agreed.
"At least we get to do something important again".
"Ok. I guess it's off to bed now. Sounds like we're loaded tomorrow" Irvine said yawning and stretching his arms.
The group started heading towards the exit doors chatting quietly. Squall stayed a little behind the group, thoughts still clouding his mind. The eerie silence still hung around the Centre making it seem like a different place. A soft breeze flew past rustling some leaves.
He stopped and looked back. "Ultimecia, somehow if it is you I won't hesitate to plunge my gunblade into your heart again. I promise", his whispered. He turned back and joined his group.
Author's note: Another chappy done! Sorry it took ages for me to write. Anyway thanks for all the people who reviewed. Hope you enjoy this one too. Keep reading and reviewing!
PS: Gosh, I'm totally addicted to FFX-2! It rocks!