Zell had been working diligently on Rinoa since they arrived on the train. Squall had stayed with him the entire time, helping out when he could. She'd been unconscious for around 45 minutes. He'd managed to use a cure spell that would probably take care of any problems she might be having. Her condition bothered him, something about it just wasn't right. This was more than just fainting because she'd received bad news. That kind of bullcrap only worked in those fast-talking romance movies from the forties his mom liked so much.
Zell sighed heavily and looked at Squall, "I think Quistis was lying..."
"What do you mean?"
"I think you know very well what I mean. That line Quistis gave us, it's so full of shit.....even you have to smell the stink."
"Yeah, but why would Quistis lie?"
"I don't know.....What should we do?"
"Nothing.....We could press the issue, but I don't think that's wise. I'm sure if we accused her we wouldn't get much out of her. Unless they decide to tell us what the hell really happened, I don't think we'll ever know. Not like it's my business anyway."
"Maybe it's some kind of girl thing.....Like, Oooo.....I got me some bad cramps, don't tell the boys......." Zell shrugged, his mood darkening as he looked at Irvine as he sat next to Selphie by the window. "I don't like that Kinneas.....Lookit him macking all over Selphie......I just don't understand women, why would anyone fall for that?" He was indeed macking, saying anything to get a giggle out of her.
".....and the green eyed monster rears its ugly head...."
"Dude....that is SO not cool. I'm not jealous.... I don't like Selphie like that. She's my friend, my home girl...if you will.... and I gotta watch her back. That guy is a total player....he'll break her heart." Zell hissed, jabbing his thumb back.
"Uh-huh....Yah....sure.....whatever...."
"Oh....like you should talk. I saw that look you gave him...PUH-LEASE!" Zell said, rolling his eyes mockingly.
"Kiss my ass...." Squall said, flipping him off.
"Bend over, beehawtch....."
Rinoa moaned and began to stir, her eyes fluttering as she regained consciousness. Zell and Squall paused for a moment, watching her wake up slowly. Squall quickly retreated, his innate shyness taking control, letting Zell take responsibility for Rinoa's care.
"What happened....where am I?" She asked, tiredly rubbing her eyes.
"You fainted, or something....You're on a train, we're going to Deling City, remember?" Zell asked, still watching her closely to make sure she was all right.
"Yeah...." Rinoa answered, trying to sit up, "I'm sorry if I worried anyone...."
"As long as you feel better.....How are you feeling?"
"Hungry....and really sleepy."
Zell laughed, "Well, we'll be in the city soon. We can get something to eat once we get there. Why don't you rest some more, okay...."
"Yeah.........Did you take care of me the whole time?"
"Yup!....My specialty is field medicine..." Zell said, smiling wickedly as he glanced over at Squall, "Squall helped out too....you should thank him, 'cept he kept touching you and stuff......I told him not to but....you know him."
Squall stared at him wide eyed, looking like he might reach over and punch him in the face. He quickly turned away, his face burning bright red. Rinoa propped herself up sleepily, reaching over and lightly smacking Squall's arm.
She smiled, dropping back down on the couch and mumbling, "Thanks...both of you... and try to keep your hands off of me, okay?" Then she turned over and closed her eyes, falling immediately back into a deep slumber.
As soon as she dropped off and he was sure she wouldn't hear, Squall turned and hit Zell as hard as he could in the arm. His face was still bright red with embarrassment. Zell rubbed his arm, looking up and laughing like a maniac at his easily flustered friend.
"That was low...." Squall growled.
"Yup....it was....Gotta admit....I gotcha real good....I was born to burn...I'm telling you dude, she really likes you....she's like all hot for you and shit. If you aren't all over this, as a friend I'm afraid I'll have to do an intervention....you need to hook up with this chick. "
"What is it with you? I don't like her already....I don't need anybody...I just want people to leave me alone... after all these years, you'd think you could figure that out...." Squall snapped, his cheeks flaring a shade of red Zell didn't even know existed.
"Dude, You are such a bad liar...You're retarded for her. I'm gonna make you admit it, whether you like it or not." , sticking his tongue out between his teeth and making a face he taunted Squall, ".......She wants your ass............oh yeah baby.......smack dat ass......YEAH!"
"Idiot..."
The train made its way across the tracks, clicking noisily every mile they traveled. Soon they were in Deling City, the train coming to a loud and abrupt stop. Then entire group disembarked, walking from the small station and taking their first steps into city itself. Deling City was the biggest city on the entire planet....it was called the city that never slept, because it truly never did. You could go anywhere in Deling City at any time and it was a guarantee that something would be going on. They'd arrived around 7o'clock, just as the afternoon commuters were leaving their jobs for the day. The streets were crowded with tons of people and cars, the noise of the city filling their ears. Large office buildings and skyscrapers towered above them, their glassy fronts glittering by the light of the setting sun.
Quistis handed Squall the slip of paper she'd been given, she'd tired of being leader. They'd wandered around a bit before it became apparent that they would get lost if they tried to find it on foot. Rinoa suggested taking a cab or a bus, as it would be quicker and far easier than walking. There were too many of them now to go for a cab, so Squall decided a bus would be the best route. He checked a billboard with route information next to one of the many bus stops that littered the streets. The map was quite simple and Squall had easily found a bus that would take them to their destination. It was a small road in the outer suburbs of Deling City. They walked a few blocks and stopped when they got to one that would have buses going the way they wanted. Squall thought briefly about Laguna while he waited at the bus stop....it was strange that he thought of it now, though not too surprising. They were in the city that they'd dreamed about....not as confusing as that guy made it out to be, what a tool.
Moments later the bus dropped them off in the snug little suburbs of Deling City. They stumbled through the winding streets of the suburb, passing home after home that looked exactly the same. Nearing their destination, Rinoa became more and more agitated and nervous. They ended up in front of a large mansion, with a tall black iron gate that separated its lawn from the sidewalk. In front of the gate stood a lone soldier, apparently guarding the entrance. Squall walked up to the soldier, stopping and saluting.
"Um, We're from Galbadia Garden, we've been sent for...."
"Well, General Caraway sees many students in one day....Only those with the proper passes can enter. You do have a pass?" The guard asked.
"No...." Squall said, looking back at Irvine and Quistis for help, "Irvine, Quistis....do either of you have the pass?"
"No...."
"Nope...I thought they gave it to you."
Squall smacked his forehead with his hand, "Great....Listen, we were sent here by both Galbadia Garden and Balamb on an important mission and we really need to talk to the general....or whoever is in there...Isn't there any other way we can get in?"
"Well....let me think. Bring me back the id number of the student who got lost in the tomb of the unknown king in the ruins to north of us, then maybe I'll let you in.......or even better, how 'bout you piss off." The guard sneered, smiling smugly, thoroughly enjoying his little power trip.
"This is ridiculous!" Rinoa shouted, pushing past Zell and Irvine, "Let me through....What's your name?"
"Um, Rinoa what do you think you're...."
She turned on Squall, holding up a finger in warning, "I can handle this....... Excuse me ....do you know who you're messing with? I'm General Caraway's daughter and if you don't let me in right now, it'll be your job. If you don't believe me, call up to your superior....Ask for Vincent."
Squall looked back at the rest of the party, who were just as stunned as he was. Apparently, Rinoa was the daughter of General Caraway, their supposed contact in Deling City. The guard wasn't as impressed as they were, and took his sweet time calling up to his superior. He leisurely reached down for his cell phone, sighing dramatically as he turned it on and dialed a number.
"Hello, Vincent....there's this lady down here and she claims to be General Caraway's daughter.....um...about five five....black hair.....can you...well sure..." the guard paused and handed the phone to her, "He wants to talk to you."
"Hello Vincent..... Yes, it's me....Good to hear you too! I'm okay and you?...That's good to hear.....how are your kids? ....uh-huh...Yeah, he refuses to let us in.... he was pretty rude about it too...ha...yeah, good help is hard to find...........Okay, thanks....bye. Here you go."
The guard took back his phone and answered it; he didn't even get a chance to get a word in, angry tones came from the receiver that made the young man wince. He hung up the phone and stammered sheepishly, "I-I'm sorry Miss Caraway....I didn't know it was you....I just started here...please don't fire me..."
"Hmpf...Because I'm a gracious lady, I'll put a word in....but you better improve you're manners. Impertinence of that kind will not tolerated, the next time it happens you'll be lucky if you're fired..." She said, haughtily walking past him and opening the gate herself.
Squall and the rest walked past the severely shaken guard. Zell lingered for a moment to give the guard a derisive smile before entering. Rinoa slowed her pace and rejoined the group quietly. Dropping the arrogant demeanor of a spoiled princess as soon as she was back with her friends. Selphie walked up to her, still awestruck and impressed.
"So....This General Caraway is your dad...."
"Biologically, yes. In all other ways, no....He stopped being my father years ago." She answered bitterly, her dark eyes glittering with remembered hurt.
Selphie caught the edge of spiteful anger in her friend's voice and she fell quiet. She didn't understand how someone could hate their parent that much, and she was almost tempted to ask why. It seemed like a sensitive subject, and Selphie judged that now was not the time or place. Though sooner or later, and once she knew Rinoa better, she'd venture to ask. Zell continued the conversation, momentarily oblivious to Rinoa's darkening mood.
"Are you nervous?" Zell asked, taking in the night air, hands stuffed into his pockets.
Anger subsided into dull thoughtfulness, Rinoa half whispered, "A little. I'm betting he'll try to keep me here. Ed never liked me living on my own." She inhaled softly, twisting a lock of hair 'round her finger.
Zell finally noted the look of wounded pain on Rinoa's face. Coming here was hard for her, and he kicked himself for being so blind. He, like Selphie, dropped the subject, falling quiet as they approached the door. Squall watched the proceedings with a detached air, not really paying much attention until Irvine sidled up to Rinoa a lascivious grin on his face. He glowered at the cowboy, and he was halfway tempted to "accidentally" trip him. Zell looked to have much the same thought. I'll leave it to him...he thought, looking away disinterestedly.
Irvine, for his part, was just trying to ease his nerves. Ever since he'd met this group, there was an overwhelming amount of tension that hung in the air. It was claustrophobic, and he needed to rid himself of it. None of them remember.....His denim blue eyes wavered mournfully, loneliness rippled in their depths. He covered it up, better that he pretend than to try and awake remembrances that might never be uncovered. It was hard, with the one person he'd tried to find for so many years finally at his side. Better the lecherous Galbadian Cowboy, than a stranger talkin' crazy.....it's better this way.....they don't remember.....He put his best smile on, creeping up on the raven haired beauty.
"Don't worry, I'll keep you safe, baby..." Irvine said, slipping an arm around Rinoa's shoulders. Sorry Seffie....
Rinoa looked up at him and scowled, smacking his arm off her shoulders, "I can take care of myself!"
Pushing back on the brim of his hat, he whistled, "That's how I like my fillies .......untamed and running free....wild, like the wind..."
"Pfftt...Pig....." Rinoa said, stalking away to join Squall's side.
Squall looked in bewilderment as she strode next to him, her features dark with fresh rage. Why do you always come back to me, even when I push you away? He thought briefly, I just don't get you.....She was muttering under her breath, the words Irvine, maim, and kill were all that he could hear. Still angry at the cowboy, He is irritating.... Maybe I'll just let her take care of him instead of Zell...mused Squall, stifling a smile.
Meanwhile, the drama Irvine created continued, lightening the moodiness of the moment. Selphie was incensed beyond rational thought. Irvine chose that moment to look at her, giving her an I can't help myself smile that didn't hold water. She pouted and without a word, hauled back and socked him in the arm as hard as she could. He winced, rubbing his arm protectively. That's my girl...
"What!? I didn't mean it!" He pleaded, holding up his hands in surrender.
"YAH RIGHT! Don't give me that stupid line......" Selphie shouted over her shoulder as she stormed off to join Rinoa.
Irvine snapped his fingers, "Damn..."
Zell strolled up to Irvine, a satisfied smile on his face, "Wow...and I was going to tell you to stay away from Selphie....Looks like I don't hafta."
"AND DON'T YOU START EITHER!" Selphie hollered... "God...boys suck."
They arrived at the Caraway's front stoop; Squall stepped forward and pushed the bell. Only waiting for a moment before someone answered and let them in. The major domo, Vincent, came down from upstairs and Squall explained their situation. Vincent agreed to go and get General Caraway, who was indeed their contact in the military. He showed the group into a small drawing room, where everyone patiently waited.
The doors opened, and General Edward Caraway stepped into the ornate drawing room. He was a small yet striking man, with inky black hair that was streaked with gray at his temples. Walking into the room with his hands behind his back, he looked over the entire group. His eyes stopped on Rinoa, pursing his lips as he walked over to her.
"Hello, Princess...I didn't expect to see you here." He said, his voice stilted and disapproving.
"Hello...ED..... I'm sure you didn't..." Rinoa replied curtly, "I , myself, find it hard to believe I'm here. However, this really isn't the time or the place to discuss this, don't you think?"
"Don't take that tone with me young lady. I'd like to know what you're doing here, with these..... people." Caraway sneered, gesturing at the rest of the group with condescension in his voice.
"I have to agree with Rinoa, sir. This is not the time to discuss family matters. Squall Leonhart, Commanding Officer, Squad A, Balamb Garden." Squall said, stepping forward and saluting, " Your daughter is here our Guide to customs and geography, as we are unfamiliar with Galbadia.....Now if you don't mind, we'd all like to get on with some real business."
Caraway turned around to look at the young man who'd spoken to him in such a rude manner. He walked over slowly, attempting to stare the boy down. No one had ever been able to match the gaze of Stone Cold Caraway, a nickname given to him behind his back by his students. Squall didn't flinch, his icy eyes unwaveringly following the old man's progress across the room. Caraway stood in front of Squall, sizing the young man up. The boy took his position seriously, of that, Caraway was certain. Nobody had ever stared him down like that, not since he was a Lieutenant in the army...years and years ago.
Still, there was something about the young man that Caraway immediately disliked. He carried himself with a kind of brash bravado, serious or not, it was a liability in Caraway's eyes. He didn't like the idea of such a fool guarding his daughter's life. That kind of fool had become Galbadia's hero, a fact that had always irritated Caraway. A career soldier, Caraway was authoritarian and strict, he worked his soldiers hard but he worked himself harder. During the war he'd worked harder than he ever had in his whole life. It was his careful plans and strategic thinking that had help to turn the tides, but a showy deserter named Loire stole the limelight. He blew in with a blaze of glory and a half-witted plan and everyone cheered. This boy reminded him of Loire, Caraway's rival and thorn in his side.
"Well, I suppose you are right....Squall." Caraway said, "What can I do for you?"
"We're the SeeDs that were sent jointly from Balamb and Galbadia Garden. We were told that you had information for us."
"Ah...yes, it's likely to be quite a lengthy explanation....Please, all of you have a seat." He gestured to the various chairs littered about the rooms.
Once everyone got comfortable, Caraway began speaking and didn't stop for well over an hour. He blithered on and on and on and on.....showing diagrams, giving them hand outs...Everyone at one time or the other catnapped, with the exception of Squall and Quistis. Despite the length and the boredom, he gave them everything they'd need to complete the mission.
There was some kind of big celebration the next night and the Sorceress would be there. A full day party that'd go long into the night, ending in a spectacular parade and fireworks. At the parade, the Sorceress was scheduled to ride aboard a massive float with minimal guards, on it she'd be totally exposed and an easy target. They'd have to spend the night in a strange city again, but this time they had nice hotel rooms with baths and showers.
Caraway stood, blocking their path so they couldn't leave, "Before all of you go. I have to insist that my daughter stays behind. She has no training for this kind of mission. For her safety and yours, she should stay..."
Rinoa was about to shout something at him, but Quistis stopped her, "I understand fully sir. However, she's been our guide to customs and geography....her help is invaluable to us. I'm afraid I'll have to disagree with your assessment of the situation. Besides, she has a contract with our Garden. We've been hired to escort her back to Balamb. Her contract is as important to us as this mission....."
Caraway's eyes went dark, narrowing as he looked from person to person. Tension in the room was high. All shuffling nervously in anticipation as tension once again took hold. Squall surreptitiously stood in front of Rinoa, his arms crossed. Rinoa just stood in shock that Quistis or for that matter, Squall, would defend her like that.
The General sighed, "I understand.....However, Miss Trepe, if you and Irvine would stay for a moment, I have things I'd like to go over with you. It'll only take a few minutes."
The rest of the SeeDs filed out of the room, with Rinoa following behind. Before she could leave the room, her father grabbed her wrist, drawing her near. He spoke to her in a low voice, so the SeeDs couldn't hear, "They're not your friends, Princess. I know it must seem like it, but believe me....you're nothing but a paycheck to them. I have your best interest in mind.... I care about you, they don't....."
Rinoa glared at the old man, "Yeah, you cared so much that you couldn't wait to get rid of me after Mom's funeral. Less than a week and you shipped me off....I bet that's some kind of record....."
"That was in the past....I do care about you....." He whispered furiously at her.
She jerked her arm away, breaking his grip on her, spiteful malice marring her beautiful features. Without further word, she turned her back on him, striding out of the office her head held high to join the rest of the group in the foyer. The others asked her no questions about what her father had whispered, the look on her face was one huge sign that screamed Do not touch. The door closed, leaving the remaining members to wait in uncomfortable silence. All remained quiet for a spell, till Zell couldn't stand the silence any more.
"Wonder what he wants to talk to them about?" Zell queried while staring at the ceiling. He was trying not to be irritated by the wait.
Selphie shrugged, "Who knows. Probably extra secret orders or somethin'"
Squall said nothing, being content to sit and wait quietly. Rinoa wanted to leave, to run as fast as she could away from this death trap. It was all she could do just to stand there and not scream. Her rage was softened somewhat by the earlier intervention of her friends. Her friends….is that what they were? She wondered why Quistis and Squall had stood up for her. A nagging doubt seeded by her father, a fact which she recognized. Still, she couldn't help but wonder why, and curiously she turned slightly to look at Squall. Should I ask? He moved and she panicked, quickly averting her gaze as a light blush flowered across her cheeks. After five minutes the door opened, Quistis and Irvine stepping out in businesslike fashion. Caraway stood just barely over the threshold, giving his daughter one last look. A strange mournful pause, that made Rinoa almost pity him. Almost. The meeting was over with and finally they could leave. No one was more relieved than Rinoa, if she never saw the inside of this place again it'd be too soon. Quistis and Irvine bowed before leaving, the General nodded and closed the door on them.
Squall spoke first, pushing himself off of the wall he'd been leaning on, "So, What was that all about?"
Quistis shot Irvine a look, making sure he wouldn't say anything, "Special orders for the ranking officer and sharp shooter. Nothing you have to know about...."
Squall's pale eyes narrowed, he had come to be suspicious with Quistis ever since the incident at Galbadia Garden. He'd follow her orders, but disliked the fact that she was keeping things from him. The group left the Caraway residence, walking towards the nearest bus that'd take them to their hotel.
Caraway watched them from his window, concern knitting his tired brow. He'd let them go without a fight. A few years ago that was something he wouldn't have done. Shaking his head, he closed the curtains and went to his desk to attend to his other business. He was sincerely afraid for his daughter, as she was his only child. Over the years they'd grown so distant and now he couldn't think of any way to reconnect with her. In truth, he'd given up...resigned to loosing his daughter's heart for good. Now, with this mission, he was worried about loosing more than just her heart. There was a sense of dread deep in his guts that somehow this all would end badly.