Whew, I'm on a roll for this story ^^ and, for those of you who cringed
last time, I'm back to Seifer's POV :D (as everyone breathes a sigh of
relief) Also, I know how to end this story, what the heck is going on, why
certain things are, and I couldn't be happier! All I have to do now is
figure out a spiffy excuse for the wings and I'm all set :D
Disclaimer: It all belongs to Squaresoft. Now I just have to figure out what 'it' is ;) Warnings: Language, Loki bashing (done by Seifer), general confusion, and of course big plot holes =P
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[Seifer]
I wake up feeling the intense urge to sneeze, which is not a good thing to wake up to in any circumstances, but is especially not a good thing when the sneeze is caused by a certain winged nemesis tickling your nose with a big fluffy feather. I open my eyes and glare at him, my vision still watery from the sneeze. "Loki, what the fuck are you doing here this early?"
The tall angel grins at me. "It's not early, it's ten after six."
I blink hard to clear my eyes. "I didn't ask what time it was, you prick, I asked what you were doing here."
He shrugs and leans back, twirling the feather between his fingers. "Just a basic check up. So, how was he?"
God, it's too early for this. "How was who?"
Loki smirks. "Squall, you idiot. Or were you that out of it?"
"Out of what? How would I know how Squall was? And stop twirling that damn feather!"
He stops playing with the feather and leans forward to bop me on the nose with it. "I'm talking about the sex. You do know that it is frowned upon to get close to the protected, don't you?"
Will. Not. Kill. Him. "I have no idea what you're talking about. I haven't had sex in months, not since the Ultimecia incident, and I sure as hell wouldn't be having sex with my rival. Now leave me the hell alone!"
He raises an eyebrow. "So, there was no sex?" I shake my head, somewhat, no, /b frustrated. He shrugs apologetically. "My bad then, but you can't really blame me, given your position and all." He looks pointedly in the direction of my chest.
I follow his view and cover my eyes, groaning. Somehow, during the night, Squall and I had managed to twist around so that I was lying on my back with my wings folded over the two of us. Squall's upper half was sprawled across my chest, his arm around my side, and his legs were intertwined with mine. And yes, I am just noticing this. I mumble a distinct oath to anything even related to Hyne and turn to look at Loki, who is grinning a bit too widely for my likings. "Whatever, just give me the update."
He wags a finger at me. "Sorry, no can do. Not yet anyways."
I raise an eyebrow and remind myself that there is most definitely a law against killing Hyne's Angels. "What, do I have to stand on one leg and recite the alphabet backwards before you'll give it to me?"
Loki looks vaguely amused as he shakes his head. "Nope, nothing like that. I just found a new project!"
He found a new project? This guy is fucking nuts. I wonder if I can put in a transfer for a new guardian? I scowl at him. "Good for you, now go away and leave me the hell alone. I have enough problems as it is without you adding to them."
He shakes his head. "Nuh uh. First off, no, you can't change guardians. Believe me, I know because I've already tried." He whistles vaguely and stares off into space. "Anyways, I can't leave you alone, because you're my project!"
I close my eyes tightly, and them open them again. Loki had better like Squall a lot, because the brunette's weight on my body is the only thing keeping me from jumping him and ripping off an important body part. "What exactly is this..project?"
He starts twirling the feather again with a professional smile on his face. Yes, a professional smile. Those are just the words that come to mind, okay? Sue me. Loki takes a breath. "So, technically, the guardian and the destined aren't supposed to get close, right?" I nod wearily. I fucking know this already. He continues. "That's basically to protect the guardian from heart break if he fails his role or has to be reborn somewhere else, see? But seeing as to how the plans are for you to be reborn here, it shouldn't be a problem."
I blink. "I still don't see your point, and what do you mean, I'm 'being reborn here'?
He waves the hand with the feather around. "My point is that you two are the perfect opportunity for breaking the rule! Some of us angels have been trying to push Hyne into allowing the destined and the guardian to become closer to each other, as in even being able to see each other, among other things, and as of yet, haven't made any progress. If I can get you two together, then she'll have to change her mind!"
I roll my eyes. "So what, you want me and Leonhart to become best buddies? Not likely, and what do you mean, 'being reborn here'?"
Loki grins the widest grin I've ever seen. "I wouldn't call it 'best buddies' so much as 'lovers'...."
At that, I forget Squall and sit up quickly. "What the /b? Are you fucking insane? In case you forgot, he's my fucking rival! The only reason I'm here now is to get back my damn body! Like hell I'm going to fuck him without any personal gain on my part..no fucking way."
Loki raises his eyebrow, apparently unaffected by my outburst. "Well, no offense and all, but you two didn't exactly look like rivals from my point of view. Think about it, okay?" He waggles his fingers at me. "Laters!"
"What? /b!" The bastard disappears. I feel like punching a wall, or at least killing Loki. Whichever comes first.
"Loki again?" The unexpected groggy voice causes me to slip into a defensive stance, but I drop it when I see it's only Squall talking to me from the floor where I had knocked him when I sat up.
I scowl. "Yeah. Fucking bastard didn't even tell me the fucking agenda, or what he meant by I was going to be reborn here." I decide not to tell Squall of Loki's 'project', which will come to pass only over Loki's dead body.
He stares at me uncomprehendingly. I shake my head. "Never mind."
Squall shrugs at me and stands up. He straightens out his nightclothes and stretches, then turns to the clock and starts. "It's six-thirty!"
I stand and stretch. Rinoa snorts and turns over in her sleep. I stare at her for a moment before deeming her worthy of the feat of sleeping through anything and turn back to Squall. "So? I'm going to take a walk, you can go back to sleep if you want."
The brunette begins to frantically struggle out of his bedclothes while beginning the attempt to brush his teeth at the same time. Eventually he manages the former and rushes to get his day clothes ready, butt naked. He gets his socks on and then runs into the bathroom to rinse his mouth. He rushes back out and throws the rest of his clothes on, haphazardly managing to buckle all of his belts in the correct order.
"I can't go back to sleep, I'm meeting Selphie and Irvine for breakfast at seven!"
I groan and flop back onto the bed, folding my wings over myself. "Messenger girl and the cowboy? You need to get a life Leonhart, seriously. And by the way, I still demand a rematch for our last sparring match. It was a draw, and the war kind of got in our way. Unless you're too chicken."
He stops and stares at me. "You're thinking of that /b? ...Whatever." He starts for the door.
I stand and stretch my wings, then follow after him. He activates the code that opens the door and starts walking in the direction of the cafeteria. The halls are unsurprisingly quiet and deserted; all the normal people are most likely still in bed. Part of me wishes I was with them, but then again a much, much larger part of me prefers to annoy Squall like there's no tomorrow... just my nature, I guess. It's not until we've passed the training center that Squall decides to talk to me. "Where are you going?" It sounds like he's asking more out of duty than of curiosity.
I wink at him. "I'm going with you. I figure it's time I met your cronies without having a gun shoved in my face."
He looks less than amused. "No, you're not."
I flash a big smile in his direction. "Yes, I am."
He stops and turns to me. "No, you are not."
I stare down at him. "Yes, I assure you that I am."
Squall scowls at me. "Damn it Seifer, you are not going with me."
I mock scowl right back at him. "Damn it Squall, I am. Now, either we can get going and you won't be late, or we can stand here and dicker around for a while until somebody comes along and catches you talking to yourself. Your call." I smirk at him, and he turns from me in as angry a manner as I've seen yet from him.
"Whatever."
I laugh and catch up to him. "Ah Squally, I'm so touched! My very-own- personal-trademarked, stamped-by-Squall 'whatever'. You really shouldn't have. I tell you, I'm not worthy!"
He scowls and mutters something that sounds suspiciously like 'asshole' while turning into the walkway that leads to the cafeteria. I walk behind him, pleased with my victory. Both of us are quiet, Squall probably preoccupied with being incredibly annoyed with me, and myself preoccupied thinking up ways to ruin a perfectly boring breakfast. We arrive in the large room just as I'm deciding against turning on the sprinklers, and I am forced to almost run after the pissed brunette as he stalks off to find a table.
He slides into the chair, folds his arms over the part of the table in front of him, and stares at the crossed limbs passively. If I didn't know better I would assume he had some type of painful gassy stomach problem because of the hunched position, but due to my highly enlightened skills, I know it's just Squall blocking out the world.
I drop into the seat next to him and stretch my legs out underneath the table. One highlight to being one of these damned Angel things is that the need to pull out a chair is long gone. I just simply have to step through the table and sit my ass down. A quick glance around the room tells me all I need to know about the place: it's exactly the same as it's been for the past ten or so years.
Little teeny weeny eating area that one would assume is much too small for serving a whole Garden full of SeeD's, the little old cafeteria ladies who never seem to move anywhere and still get everything done, and of course those annoying Trepies. I still fail to see how Quisty could have her own fan club. I sincerely believe that it's entirely due to the whip she carries. A small part of me believes that whip and the images it draws up, are the main reasons she was the youngest instructor in the history of the Garden. Of course, this is just a theory. It goes right along with my theory that UFO's really exist.. they do. Honest.
I'm in the process of thinking of something to do to /b piss off Leonhart, when the breakfast club arrives. Irvine tips his hat to Squall, and Selphie, who is pressed as close to possible to Irvine, gives a hearty wave and a dazzling smile. Squall leans back and stares at them, which they obviously recognize as a hello. I grin at Squall's supposed reformed attitude, but lose the expression fairly quick when Irvine pulls the chair back and sits through me. As if to add insult to the injury Selphie plops down in his lap and wraps her arm around his (and halfway through my) neck. I'm suddenly overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions that aren't my own, and am struck by the realization that anybody with as much cheer as I'm getting from Selphie should be taken out and shot..ASAP. Hastily I jump up and seat myself at the chair opposite Squall's, glaring at his amusement in the matter. Selphie shivers visibly and presses closer to the cowboy. "Brr....it's COLD in here!"
Hmph, she should talk. She's not the one who has to walk around shirtless due to the biggest pair of red wings known to mankind. I have to admit though that it's interesting that I can make people cold just by touching them..however given the emotional downside on my part, I don't think I'll freeze people too much. I wonder why I didn't feel Leonhart's emotions when I touch him? Maybe it's because of the bond that's already there...eh, who cares anyways. I decide to listen in on the conversation for lack of anything better to do. Of course it's the hyperactive messenger girl that does most of the talking.
"So Squall, I was thinking we could do another Garden Festival! I mean, the last one didn't really count because it doubled as a world saving party and also Zell didn't get a chance to participate because he choked on the hot dog and had to be taken to the infirmary, remember?"
I raise an eyebrow and glance at Squall. "Say Squally, what kind of hot dog is she talking about here?"
Of course I am ignored, and Selphie goes on. "Anyways, I thought the festival could be a type of fashion show, where maybe we could show off some of those uniforms Rinoa has been designing?"
I cough, and not the polite type. "Rinoa? A designer? What, are the uniforms pink with cute little bows?"
Much to my surprise, Squall nods almost imperceptively. I gag slightly... it's just not right. Unfortunately Selphie catches the nod and assumes that Squall is agreeing with her idea. She flashes a huge smile at him. "I KNEW you would love the idea! Okay, so I'm scheduling the models.. you can be the guest of honor!" Squall's eyes widen in slight horror. Selphie goes on, oblivious. "Rinoa designed this great outfit..you should see the frillies on it! It would be perfect for you. Actually, she designed it for you. But don't tell, 'cause it's a secret!" She winks widely at the still shocked Squall. "It's just so cute, and it'll fit in all the right places! I just need to get your measurements real quick..."
I smirk at Squall. "What's she's saying is; it will effectively show off your tight ass." He ignores me, but his mouth sets into a firmer line. Damn, now I'll probably get the silent treatment for the next five years or so. Oh well, it'll be worth it if he actually has to wear the outfit in public... and doubly worth it if I can get a hold of a camera and the addresses of a few well known newspapers.
Selphie manages to produce a notebook and a pencil (where she managed to hide them under that little dress, I'll never know) and turned back on Squall, ready to begin the torture. Squall stands up quickly and backs away from her, much as I've seen him back away from some of the more grouchy T-Rexaurs in the training center. "Sorry Selphie, but I don't think I can be a very good model. Besides, I have no idea what my measurements are... excuse me, I'm going to get some coffee." He turns and strides off briskly. I grin at Irvines amused look and get up to follow Squall to Selphies shout of, "you'll be a great model! And don't worry about the measurements...I've got a tape measure right here!"
Squall leans forward on the counter and gives the lady twice as much money as the coffee would normally cost. When she raises an eyebrow at him he says. "Keep the change, and I'm really, really not in any hurry."
The lady pockets the extra change and chuckles heartily. "Point taken, O wise commander, one cup of coffee coming up just as slow-as-molasses!"
Squall nods at her and goes to lean against the near wall. I lean right next to him. "So..." I begin, "frillies huh? That should look good on your resume."
He scowls at the ground and mutters a quiet 'shut up', but doesn't say anything else. Hn, probably afraid someone will see him talking to himself. He shouldn't be so worried, people have been expecting *that* for years.
I'm about to comment on the outfit again when there is a polite cough from in front of us. We both look up at the man. I frown, he looks so familiar...I'll get it in just a second..
Squall sighs. "Nida." That's it! Now I know where I've seen him. Nida was that shy, no name, that me and the DC used to bust for being so unobtrusive. It's just not right, being that inconspicuous. Never did like the guy.
Nida smiles at Squall. "Good morning Commander Leonhart. Package came for you today." He holds out a rectangular box to Squall, who simply stares at it. Nida jiggles the box a little. "Come on, you have to take it. I was paid a lot of money to give it to you. The least you can do is *take* it for Hyne's sake."
Squall looks back up at Nida's face. "Who paid you?"
Nida shrugs. "I dunno, some guy wearing a whole shitload of clothes. Everything was covered from head to toe. All I know is that he was tall, and he really wants you to have the package. Hell, he gave me three thousand gil to deliver it."
Both Squall's and my eyebrows raise, mine more so than his. Who the hell pays three thousand gil to deliver a package only about a foot long by four inches wide? Nida answers my unanswered question quickly. "I already ran it through the scanner and nothing is out of the ordinary. No bombs, no spring loaded razors, nothing. He's probably just some secret admirer, or is working for a secret admirer. Come on Squall, just take it. Live a little."
Squall frowns, but finally accepts the package. He examines the plain white bow with the red ribbon bow and looks back at Nida. "Is there anything else you can tell me about this man?"
Nida shrugs. "Not really. His voice sounded vaguely familiar, but then again we did meet a lot of people during the war. Oh, and I think he might have been missing a hand. Some of the clothing he as wearing rode up on his arm when he handed me the package and I didn't see any skin, but it could have been a trick of the light. He left as soon as he gave me the box. Actually, it was more like he disappeared into thin air. I took the box and then turned to talk to one of my students, and when I turned back to him he was nowhere to be seen. That's all, sir."
Squall nodded. "Thank you Nida. How much for the tip?"
Nida threw Squall a salute and grinned. "Believe me, I don't need any tip from you this time around." Squall didn't bother to watch the nondescript man leave the cafeteria. He slid the box under one arm, went to pick up his coffee (while ignoring the wink from the cafeteria lady), and carried both back to the table.
Selphie immediately dropped her notebook and tape measure. "OOH! Look! Squall got a present! Oh..I bet it's from Rinoa, how romantic! Open it Squall, please?"
Squall set his coffee down to the side and brought out the package. I moved behind him and peeked over his shoulder to get a better view of the boxes contents. He opened the package very slowly and meticulously, making sure not to damage the ribbon. I sigh and jab him in the side. "It's a box Leonhart, not the crown jewels. Just tear the fucker open." As per usual I am ignored. When the ribbon is off Squall folds it and sets it off to the side, and then stares at the box as if trying to see the contents through the wrapper.
Selphie squirms on Irvines lap, and the cowboy smiles at the movements. The girl pouts. "Come on Squall, just open it! Ooh, I just know it's from Rinoa, whatever it is!"
Finally Squall reaches out and takes the lid off. The inside of the box is lined with black velvet, and centered in it is a single long stemmed red rose and an envelope with Squall's name written on it in bold writing. I snort at the romantic gift as Selphie squeals. "It's so gorgeous! Read the card Squall! Is it from Rinoa? It is, isn't it?"
Squall studies the thornless rose silently before removing the envelope. I don't recognize the bold writing, and apparently Squall doesn't either. One thing I know is it's definitely not Rinoa, the girl's writing being more thin and elegant. With an almost confused expression on his face he takes out the card and looks it over, while I read over his shoulder. Both of us let out audible gasps at the same time, and I take a big step away from Squall, who for the moment forgets about the others and twists around in his chair to look at me, partly in confusion, partly in cold fury.
Selphie stops bouncing and frowns. "Squall? What's wrong? Who sent it?"
Squall takes one last look at me before turning back to the girl. "It's from Rinoa."
His tone is just slightly less than friendly; even the cowboy seems to notice. Before they can grill Squall, he scoops up his package along with the note and he makes for the door. I run after him, incredibly confused. One thing I do know is that the package definitely was *not* from Rinoa. All I want to know is who the hell sent it so I can grant the person, an incredibly none so quick and not very painless, death.
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Random notes from BS: Whee..and it's another cliffie! heh ^_^ I have the whole next chapter planned out (thank God) so with any luck it will be up within the coming week :D If it's not up you can blame my parents for making me pack instead of updating this fabulous story (we got a new house..joy) =P The basic plan is get as far as possible with this story, maybe another chapter or two, and then I'll go back to Amnesie. As for the Prison Song... I've never even heard of such a fic *whistles* eh well, I'll finish it eventually ^_^ I just have to figure out how to properly kill it. I think after I finish this fic and get a tad further on Amnesie, I'll start my gift for Redrum, mainly because the plot is multiplying and producing a ton of insanely mutilated bunnies up in my head.... but why am I telling you this? Not like anyone cares =P
Also, one other thing. If you guys notice a bunch of errors in my fic (as in speling an da gramerr that jest ain't proper gramerr..not plot ^.-), it's because I'm the beta and I don't usually catch my own mistakes. Other peoples, sure, to the point of being annoying ^_^; but sometimes I miss my own (doesn't help that my writing program has no spell check or anything. I'm just relying on my good old spelling bee training here). So if anyone wants to rant at me for my crappy English skills, have fun! (And I swear I'm being honest) Thanks for reading! laters :D
Disclaimer: It all belongs to Squaresoft. Now I just have to figure out what 'it' is ;) Warnings: Language, Loki bashing (done by Seifer), general confusion, and of course big plot holes =P
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[Seifer]
I wake up feeling the intense urge to sneeze, which is not a good thing to wake up to in any circumstances, but is especially not a good thing when the sneeze is caused by a certain winged nemesis tickling your nose with a big fluffy feather. I open my eyes and glare at him, my vision still watery from the sneeze. "Loki, what the fuck are you doing here this early?"
The tall angel grins at me. "It's not early, it's ten after six."
I blink hard to clear my eyes. "I didn't ask what time it was, you prick, I asked what you were doing here."
He shrugs and leans back, twirling the feather between his fingers. "Just a basic check up. So, how was he?"
God, it's too early for this. "How was who?"
Loki smirks. "Squall, you idiot. Or were you that out of it?"
"Out of what? How would I know how Squall was? And stop twirling that damn feather!"
He stops playing with the feather and leans forward to bop me on the nose with it. "I'm talking about the sex. You do know that it is frowned upon to get close to the protected, don't you?"
Will. Not. Kill. Him. "I have no idea what you're talking about. I haven't had sex in months, not since the Ultimecia incident, and I sure as hell wouldn't be having sex with my rival. Now leave me the hell alone!"
He raises an eyebrow. "So, there was no sex?" I shake my head, somewhat, no, /b frustrated. He shrugs apologetically. "My bad then, but you can't really blame me, given your position and all." He looks pointedly in the direction of my chest.
I follow his view and cover my eyes, groaning. Somehow, during the night, Squall and I had managed to twist around so that I was lying on my back with my wings folded over the two of us. Squall's upper half was sprawled across my chest, his arm around my side, and his legs were intertwined with mine. And yes, I am just noticing this. I mumble a distinct oath to anything even related to Hyne and turn to look at Loki, who is grinning a bit too widely for my likings. "Whatever, just give me the update."
He wags a finger at me. "Sorry, no can do. Not yet anyways."
I raise an eyebrow and remind myself that there is most definitely a law against killing Hyne's Angels. "What, do I have to stand on one leg and recite the alphabet backwards before you'll give it to me?"
Loki looks vaguely amused as he shakes his head. "Nope, nothing like that. I just found a new project!"
He found a new project? This guy is fucking nuts. I wonder if I can put in a transfer for a new guardian? I scowl at him. "Good for you, now go away and leave me the hell alone. I have enough problems as it is without you adding to them."
He shakes his head. "Nuh uh. First off, no, you can't change guardians. Believe me, I know because I've already tried." He whistles vaguely and stares off into space. "Anyways, I can't leave you alone, because you're my project!"
I close my eyes tightly, and them open them again. Loki had better like Squall a lot, because the brunette's weight on my body is the only thing keeping me from jumping him and ripping off an important body part. "What exactly is this..project?"
He starts twirling the feather again with a professional smile on his face. Yes, a professional smile. Those are just the words that come to mind, okay? Sue me. Loki takes a breath. "So, technically, the guardian and the destined aren't supposed to get close, right?" I nod wearily. I fucking know this already. He continues. "That's basically to protect the guardian from heart break if he fails his role or has to be reborn somewhere else, see? But seeing as to how the plans are for you to be reborn here, it shouldn't be a problem."
I blink. "I still don't see your point, and what do you mean, I'm 'being reborn here'?
He waves the hand with the feather around. "My point is that you two are the perfect opportunity for breaking the rule! Some of us angels have been trying to push Hyne into allowing the destined and the guardian to become closer to each other, as in even being able to see each other, among other things, and as of yet, haven't made any progress. If I can get you two together, then she'll have to change her mind!"
I roll my eyes. "So what, you want me and Leonhart to become best buddies? Not likely, and what do you mean, 'being reborn here'?"
Loki grins the widest grin I've ever seen. "I wouldn't call it 'best buddies' so much as 'lovers'...."
At that, I forget Squall and sit up quickly. "What the /b? Are you fucking insane? In case you forgot, he's my fucking rival! The only reason I'm here now is to get back my damn body! Like hell I'm going to fuck him without any personal gain on my part..no fucking way."
Loki raises his eyebrow, apparently unaffected by my outburst. "Well, no offense and all, but you two didn't exactly look like rivals from my point of view. Think about it, okay?" He waggles his fingers at me. "Laters!"
"What? /b!" The bastard disappears. I feel like punching a wall, or at least killing Loki. Whichever comes first.
"Loki again?" The unexpected groggy voice causes me to slip into a defensive stance, but I drop it when I see it's only Squall talking to me from the floor where I had knocked him when I sat up.
I scowl. "Yeah. Fucking bastard didn't even tell me the fucking agenda, or what he meant by I was going to be reborn here." I decide not to tell Squall of Loki's 'project', which will come to pass only over Loki's dead body.
He stares at me uncomprehendingly. I shake my head. "Never mind."
Squall shrugs at me and stands up. He straightens out his nightclothes and stretches, then turns to the clock and starts. "It's six-thirty!"
I stand and stretch. Rinoa snorts and turns over in her sleep. I stare at her for a moment before deeming her worthy of the feat of sleeping through anything and turn back to Squall. "So? I'm going to take a walk, you can go back to sleep if you want."
The brunette begins to frantically struggle out of his bedclothes while beginning the attempt to brush his teeth at the same time. Eventually he manages the former and rushes to get his day clothes ready, butt naked. He gets his socks on and then runs into the bathroom to rinse his mouth. He rushes back out and throws the rest of his clothes on, haphazardly managing to buckle all of his belts in the correct order.
"I can't go back to sleep, I'm meeting Selphie and Irvine for breakfast at seven!"
I groan and flop back onto the bed, folding my wings over myself. "Messenger girl and the cowboy? You need to get a life Leonhart, seriously. And by the way, I still demand a rematch for our last sparring match. It was a draw, and the war kind of got in our way. Unless you're too chicken."
He stops and stares at me. "You're thinking of that /b? ...Whatever." He starts for the door.
I stand and stretch my wings, then follow after him. He activates the code that opens the door and starts walking in the direction of the cafeteria. The halls are unsurprisingly quiet and deserted; all the normal people are most likely still in bed. Part of me wishes I was with them, but then again a much, much larger part of me prefers to annoy Squall like there's no tomorrow... just my nature, I guess. It's not until we've passed the training center that Squall decides to talk to me. "Where are you going?" It sounds like he's asking more out of duty than of curiosity.
I wink at him. "I'm going with you. I figure it's time I met your cronies without having a gun shoved in my face."
He looks less than amused. "No, you're not."
I flash a big smile in his direction. "Yes, I am."
He stops and turns to me. "No, you are not."
I stare down at him. "Yes, I assure you that I am."
Squall scowls at me. "Damn it Seifer, you are not going with me."
I mock scowl right back at him. "Damn it Squall, I am. Now, either we can get going and you won't be late, or we can stand here and dicker around for a while until somebody comes along and catches you talking to yourself. Your call." I smirk at him, and he turns from me in as angry a manner as I've seen yet from him.
"Whatever."
I laugh and catch up to him. "Ah Squally, I'm so touched! My very-own- personal-trademarked, stamped-by-Squall 'whatever'. You really shouldn't have. I tell you, I'm not worthy!"
He scowls and mutters something that sounds suspiciously like 'asshole' while turning into the walkway that leads to the cafeteria. I walk behind him, pleased with my victory. Both of us are quiet, Squall probably preoccupied with being incredibly annoyed with me, and myself preoccupied thinking up ways to ruin a perfectly boring breakfast. We arrive in the large room just as I'm deciding against turning on the sprinklers, and I am forced to almost run after the pissed brunette as he stalks off to find a table.
He slides into the chair, folds his arms over the part of the table in front of him, and stares at the crossed limbs passively. If I didn't know better I would assume he had some type of painful gassy stomach problem because of the hunched position, but due to my highly enlightened skills, I know it's just Squall blocking out the world.
I drop into the seat next to him and stretch my legs out underneath the table. One highlight to being one of these damned Angel things is that the need to pull out a chair is long gone. I just simply have to step through the table and sit my ass down. A quick glance around the room tells me all I need to know about the place: it's exactly the same as it's been for the past ten or so years.
Little teeny weeny eating area that one would assume is much too small for serving a whole Garden full of SeeD's, the little old cafeteria ladies who never seem to move anywhere and still get everything done, and of course those annoying Trepies. I still fail to see how Quisty could have her own fan club. I sincerely believe that it's entirely due to the whip she carries. A small part of me believes that whip and the images it draws up, are the main reasons she was the youngest instructor in the history of the Garden. Of course, this is just a theory. It goes right along with my theory that UFO's really exist.. they do. Honest.
I'm in the process of thinking of something to do to /b piss off Leonhart, when the breakfast club arrives. Irvine tips his hat to Squall, and Selphie, who is pressed as close to possible to Irvine, gives a hearty wave and a dazzling smile. Squall leans back and stares at them, which they obviously recognize as a hello. I grin at Squall's supposed reformed attitude, but lose the expression fairly quick when Irvine pulls the chair back and sits through me. As if to add insult to the injury Selphie plops down in his lap and wraps her arm around his (and halfway through my) neck. I'm suddenly overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions that aren't my own, and am struck by the realization that anybody with as much cheer as I'm getting from Selphie should be taken out and shot..ASAP. Hastily I jump up and seat myself at the chair opposite Squall's, glaring at his amusement in the matter. Selphie shivers visibly and presses closer to the cowboy. "Brr....it's COLD in here!"
Hmph, she should talk. She's not the one who has to walk around shirtless due to the biggest pair of red wings known to mankind. I have to admit though that it's interesting that I can make people cold just by touching them..however given the emotional downside on my part, I don't think I'll freeze people too much. I wonder why I didn't feel Leonhart's emotions when I touch him? Maybe it's because of the bond that's already there...eh, who cares anyways. I decide to listen in on the conversation for lack of anything better to do. Of course it's the hyperactive messenger girl that does most of the talking.
"So Squall, I was thinking we could do another Garden Festival! I mean, the last one didn't really count because it doubled as a world saving party and also Zell didn't get a chance to participate because he choked on the hot dog and had to be taken to the infirmary, remember?"
I raise an eyebrow and glance at Squall. "Say Squally, what kind of hot dog is she talking about here?"
Of course I am ignored, and Selphie goes on. "Anyways, I thought the festival could be a type of fashion show, where maybe we could show off some of those uniforms Rinoa has been designing?"
I cough, and not the polite type. "Rinoa? A designer? What, are the uniforms pink with cute little bows?"
Much to my surprise, Squall nods almost imperceptively. I gag slightly... it's just not right. Unfortunately Selphie catches the nod and assumes that Squall is agreeing with her idea. She flashes a huge smile at him. "I KNEW you would love the idea! Okay, so I'm scheduling the models.. you can be the guest of honor!" Squall's eyes widen in slight horror. Selphie goes on, oblivious. "Rinoa designed this great outfit..you should see the frillies on it! It would be perfect for you. Actually, she designed it for you. But don't tell, 'cause it's a secret!" She winks widely at the still shocked Squall. "It's just so cute, and it'll fit in all the right places! I just need to get your measurements real quick..."
I smirk at Squall. "What's she's saying is; it will effectively show off your tight ass." He ignores me, but his mouth sets into a firmer line. Damn, now I'll probably get the silent treatment for the next five years or so. Oh well, it'll be worth it if he actually has to wear the outfit in public... and doubly worth it if I can get a hold of a camera and the addresses of a few well known newspapers.
Selphie manages to produce a notebook and a pencil (where she managed to hide them under that little dress, I'll never know) and turned back on Squall, ready to begin the torture. Squall stands up quickly and backs away from her, much as I've seen him back away from some of the more grouchy T-Rexaurs in the training center. "Sorry Selphie, but I don't think I can be a very good model. Besides, I have no idea what my measurements are... excuse me, I'm going to get some coffee." He turns and strides off briskly. I grin at Irvines amused look and get up to follow Squall to Selphies shout of, "you'll be a great model! And don't worry about the measurements...I've got a tape measure right here!"
Squall leans forward on the counter and gives the lady twice as much money as the coffee would normally cost. When she raises an eyebrow at him he says. "Keep the change, and I'm really, really not in any hurry."
The lady pockets the extra change and chuckles heartily. "Point taken, O wise commander, one cup of coffee coming up just as slow-as-molasses!"
Squall nods at her and goes to lean against the near wall. I lean right next to him. "So..." I begin, "frillies huh? That should look good on your resume."
He scowls at the ground and mutters a quiet 'shut up', but doesn't say anything else. Hn, probably afraid someone will see him talking to himself. He shouldn't be so worried, people have been expecting *that* for years.
I'm about to comment on the outfit again when there is a polite cough from in front of us. We both look up at the man. I frown, he looks so familiar...I'll get it in just a second..
Squall sighs. "Nida." That's it! Now I know where I've seen him. Nida was that shy, no name, that me and the DC used to bust for being so unobtrusive. It's just not right, being that inconspicuous. Never did like the guy.
Nida smiles at Squall. "Good morning Commander Leonhart. Package came for you today." He holds out a rectangular box to Squall, who simply stares at it. Nida jiggles the box a little. "Come on, you have to take it. I was paid a lot of money to give it to you. The least you can do is *take* it for Hyne's sake."
Squall looks back up at Nida's face. "Who paid you?"
Nida shrugs. "I dunno, some guy wearing a whole shitload of clothes. Everything was covered from head to toe. All I know is that he was tall, and he really wants you to have the package. Hell, he gave me three thousand gil to deliver it."
Both Squall's and my eyebrows raise, mine more so than his. Who the hell pays three thousand gil to deliver a package only about a foot long by four inches wide? Nida answers my unanswered question quickly. "I already ran it through the scanner and nothing is out of the ordinary. No bombs, no spring loaded razors, nothing. He's probably just some secret admirer, or is working for a secret admirer. Come on Squall, just take it. Live a little."
Squall frowns, but finally accepts the package. He examines the plain white bow with the red ribbon bow and looks back at Nida. "Is there anything else you can tell me about this man?"
Nida shrugs. "Not really. His voice sounded vaguely familiar, but then again we did meet a lot of people during the war. Oh, and I think he might have been missing a hand. Some of the clothing he as wearing rode up on his arm when he handed me the package and I didn't see any skin, but it could have been a trick of the light. He left as soon as he gave me the box. Actually, it was more like he disappeared into thin air. I took the box and then turned to talk to one of my students, and when I turned back to him he was nowhere to be seen. That's all, sir."
Squall nodded. "Thank you Nida. How much for the tip?"
Nida threw Squall a salute and grinned. "Believe me, I don't need any tip from you this time around." Squall didn't bother to watch the nondescript man leave the cafeteria. He slid the box under one arm, went to pick up his coffee (while ignoring the wink from the cafeteria lady), and carried both back to the table.
Selphie immediately dropped her notebook and tape measure. "OOH! Look! Squall got a present! Oh..I bet it's from Rinoa, how romantic! Open it Squall, please?"
Squall set his coffee down to the side and brought out the package. I moved behind him and peeked over his shoulder to get a better view of the boxes contents. He opened the package very slowly and meticulously, making sure not to damage the ribbon. I sigh and jab him in the side. "It's a box Leonhart, not the crown jewels. Just tear the fucker open." As per usual I am ignored. When the ribbon is off Squall folds it and sets it off to the side, and then stares at the box as if trying to see the contents through the wrapper.
Selphie squirms on Irvines lap, and the cowboy smiles at the movements. The girl pouts. "Come on Squall, just open it! Ooh, I just know it's from Rinoa, whatever it is!"
Finally Squall reaches out and takes the lid off. The inside of the box is lined with black velvet, and centered in it is a single long stemmed red rose and an envelope with Squall's name written on it in bold writing. I snort at the romantic gift as Selphie squeals. "It's so gorgeous! Read the card Squall! Is it from Rinoa? It is, isn't it?"
Squall studies the thornless rose silently before removing the envelope. I don't recognize the bold writing, and apparently Squall doesn't either. One thing I know is it's definitely not Rinoa, the girl's writing being more thin and elegant. With an almost confused expression on his face he takes out the card and looks it over, while I read over his shoulder. Both of us let out audible gasps at the same time, and I take a big step away from Squall, who for the moment forgets about the others and twists around in his chair to look at me, partly in confusion, partly in cold fury.
Selphie stops bouncing and frowns. "Squall? What's wrong? Who sent it?"
Squall takes one last look at me before turning back to the girl. "It's from Rinoa."
His tone is just slightly less than friendly; even the cowboy seems to notice. Before they can grill Squall, he scoops up his package along with the note and he makes for the door. I run after him, incredibly confused. One thing I do know is that the package definitely was *not* from Rinoa. All I want to know is who the hell sent it so I can grant the person, an incredibly none so quick and not very painless, death.
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Random notes from BS: Whee..and it's another cliffie! heh ^_^ I have the whole next chapter planned out (thank God) so with any luck it will be up within the coming week :D If it's not up you can blame my parents for making me pack instead of updating this fabulous story (we got a new house..joy) =P The basic plan is get as far as possible with this story, maybe another chapter or two, and then I'll go back to Amnesie. As for the Prison Song... I've never even heard of such a fic *whistles* eh well, I'll finish it eventually ^_^ I just have to figure out how to properly kill it. I think after I finish this fic and get a tad further on Amnesie, I'll start my gift for Redrum, mainly because the plot is multiplying and producing a ton of insanely mutilated bunnies up in my head.... but why am I telling you this? Not like anyone cares =P
Also, one other thing. If you guys notice a bunch of errors in my fic (as in speling an da gramerr that jest ain't proper gramerr..not plot ^.-), it's because I'm the beta and I don't usually catch my own mistakes. Other peoples, sure, to the point of being annoying ^_^; but sometimes I miss my own (doesn't help that my writing program has no spell check or anything. I'm just relying on my good old spelling bee training here). So if anyone wants to rant at me for my crappy English skills, have fun! (And I swear I'm being honest) Thanks for reading! laters :D