Legacies: Chapter 7
by: Gemini83
Disclaimer: You know it, I don't own FF8. But I do own this story.
Months later...
Squall was in his office room, rifling through more paperwork. He turned in his chair, looking out the window to the ocean beyond.
"Tell me again Xu," he groaned, "why'd I take this job?"
She laughed, "because you were born to it."
He rolled his eyes and shrugged, leaning back in his chair, "Yeah, sure...whatever."
Quistis entered the room, and looked at Squall, smiling, "difficulties of the job?"
"You have no idea," he replied.
She nodded to Xu.
Xu nodded back, "so, Quistis, what is it?"
She shrugged, "oh nothing, more paperwork. As head of the disciplinary committee, I now have the glorious job or working with Dr. Kadowaki for the psyche reports."
Squall rubbed his temples, "hmm...I don't remember Seifer doing that back when he had the job."
Quistis grinned, "that was why he kept Fujin around. Actually, she seconds for him even now, although he is Commander at Galbadia Garden."
He nodded, looking up at the marble top ceiling, rubbing his temples to coax himself awake.
Xu shook her head, "honestly Squall, I still don't see why you made him a Commander."
He looked back down, and shrugged, "you didn't want the job. Besides, Seifer and I...have an understanding."
"You could have given it to Irvine," she countered.
Squall shook his head, "he went off with Selphie to rebuild Trabia Garden, remember?"
Quistis nodded, "which reminds me. Irvine sends his greetings."
Squall raised a questioning eyebrow.
"I had Quistis look into resource management for the other three Gardens," explained Xu.
Squall nodded, remembering. Balamb and Galbadia had been the only two functional Gardens after the Sorceress War. Trabia was getting back on its feet. However, what had caught everyone off guard was Edea's surprise. The former White Seed had been amassing resources for years in secret. Now that they could come out in the open, they set up a branch of Seed in Centra ruins, near Matron's old home. Currently, they occupied themselves with setting up a spy net, alerting Seed to troubles that may arise. And recently, strange things had been happening...
He didn't know who the Commander there was, but apparently, Cid and Edea had found a competent mind to help them run things.
"Nida sends his greetings Xu," said Quistis.
Xu smiled back, nodding. Nida had been transferred to help with the construction of Centra Garden, but he still dropped a line from time to time.
"Which reminds me Squall," continued Quistis, cutting into his thoughts, "Laguna wanted to speak with you."
Squall blinked, "the President of Esthar? What for?"
She shrugged, "we did rely on them heavily for helping us rebuild, and Fisherman's Horizon did dock Galbadia Garden for a while. Perhaps he wanted to discuss some business?"
Squall nodded, "fine, put him on the intercom."
Quistis shook her head, "he wants to see you in person."
Xu looked up at Quistis.
She spread her hands, "don't ask me why."
Squall nodded, "alright, I'll see him later this week."
"He'll be here tomorrow night," said Quistis.
"What?" demanded Xu, "but we'll have to prepare-"
"He wanted it low key," said Quistis, "during the inauguration of new the Seed cadets tomorrow."
"We have one tomorrow?" asked Squall.
Quistis covered her face with her hands, hiding a laugh.
Xu sighed, "I do wish you'd remember these things..."
"Fine," nodded Squall, "set it up. I'm going to my room for a while."
The two women nodded as he walked out the door.
"What is this about?" asked Quistis.
"Perhaps we can ask Squall to tell us afterwards?" hazarded Xu.
Quistis sniffed in amusement, "knowing Squall, it may be like pulling teeth."
He walked calmly down the halls of Balamb Garden, nodding to the cadets and staff as they saluted him in passing. He didn't bother to stay and talk, even though he was popular around here for some odd reason. The people at Balamb liked him, but he was grateful for it, despite the awkwardness.
Squall got into the elevator, and pushed the button for the bottom floor. He turned to look out the glass behind him, taking in the lower tier from above. It looked much better, now that they had cleaned up the mess left behind after the Galbadian invasion. The shrubbery wasn't burnt and overridden anymore. The marble wasn't cracked. Things were as they should be.
The elevator came to an abrupt halt, one floor above Squall's destination.
Zell rushed in, panting, "Squall...I was...looking for you."
"Slow down Zell," he replied, "take a breathe."
Zell complied, taking several great gulps of air before continuing, "we've had some problems near the old cave training area."
Squall raised an eyebrow, "why? Ifrit isn't there anymore, is he?"
"Naw," discounted Zell, "I have him junctioned. But some of the students I've been teaching have been getting into scrapes near there, training for the field exam. Apparently, there's some strange noises and activity coming from the cave."
They reached the first floor, and Zell accompanied Squall through the hallways to the dorms.
"Does Ifrit have anything to say about it?"
Zell shook his head.
Although it wasn't common knowledge, if a person developed enough compatibility with their GF's, it was possible to communicate with them, through the part of the mind which shared emotions with the elementals.
Zell continued, "I've punished some of the students for going there without the right precautions."
Squall stared at him, "punishment? You?"
Zell groaned, "gee, even Squall is picking on me. Yeah, I know. But ever since you made me Instructor of combat training, I've had to set down a few rules, which pisses me off. I hate it, makes me feel too much like Seifer."
Squall held back a grin, "so, what did you want?"
"Well," replied Zell, "I wanted to check it out with one of the others."
Squall nodded, "you have my permission, but there's only one problem."
"What's that?" asked Zell.
"We are short of experienced staff at the moment," he explained, "Quistis and Xu are busy with tonight's preparations, and anyone else qualified to check it out are busy fixing up Centra and Trabia Gardens. That leaves Galbadia Garden."
Zell groaned, "oh great, you mean I have to ask Seifer for help?"
Squall shrugged, "you could do worse."
"Not by much," snapped Zell, "I'd rather go it alone."
"No you won't," ordered Squall, "it's protocol. Take a student from here, in case, and have Seifer lend you someone. Understood?"
Zell sighed, "fine Squall, anyone in mind?"
Squall shrugged, "how about the girl you've been trying to date for the past month? You know, the one that works in the library?"
The two remained silent as the elevator drew to a halt, the chime of the bell ushering them out.
Zell blinked, staring at him, "wait a sec, is...Squall...giving me girl advice?"
Leonhart groaned, "not me, it was Rinoa's idea. She keeps telling me to encourage you, so I am. Now, go and do...whatever. Make sure you file a report when you get back."
"Okay, just don't ask me to enjoy it..."
Zell walked off half-dejectedly. It wasn't a total loss, after all, he could make his move now...
Squall shook his head. If he could get over Seifer, Zell could at least try to as well. In fact, it had surprised everyone, himself included, when Squall had recommended Seifer as Commander of Galbadia Garden. It had seemed...right somehow. That, and he had reached an...understanding with Seifer. Of course, that didn't mean they saw each other more than absolutely necessary, fate could only be tempted so much.
Squall keyed the password to his room, and swiped his identification card before entering. He turned on the lights, although the sunlight was already peeking in though the windows.
Rinoa turned around, slightly surprised, "oh, Squall. You forgot to knock."
Squall smiled ever so slightly, as he was wont to do when she was near, "in my own room?"
"OUR room," stressed Rinoa.
Squall nodded, "right, so how are your classes going?"
Rinoa sighed exasperatedly, collapsing onto the bed, "I can't believe those kids. One of them tried to learn how to cast a Firaga, and set fire to a table. Then another student put it out...by casting Blizzaga on the desk. It broke into a million pieces, but only after the sprinklers came on."
It was then he noticed that Rinoa's clothes were slightly wet, and her damp hair was clinging to her skin. She looked quite striking, in a primal sort of way, and the way she lounged on the bed was quite fetching...
"I swear Squall," laughed Rinoa, "some days, I think you making me the magic Instructor appeals to the sadist inside you."
Squall grinned, "indeed. Well, I've had a busy day, I think I'll take a shower."
Rinoa sat up, "oh no you don't, I was going to take one."
Squall shook his head, "you have your own room."
"Which I never use," countered Rinoa.
"Don't remind me," groaned Squall, "Quistis says you're the best neighbor she's ever had. You never make any noise, since you're never around."
"Speaking of which," she said, "she got a new one, seeing as how I didn't need the room. You know the girl in the library? The one that Zell likes? She's the new neighbor."
Squall nodded, no wonder Rinoa had been bugging him about it recently.
"So, now we officially share this double," she finished.
"You forget this isn't really a double," reminded Squall, "just a room twice the normal size."
"A fact I conveniently overlooked," Rinoa walked up to him, caressing his face, "do you mind?"
Squall grinned back, wrapping his arms about her waist, "not at all."
They closed together for a short kiss, then Squall drew back.
"We still have a problem of who gets the shower."
Rinoa shrugged, backing away, "we'll have to share Squall."
Squall grunted, "fine, you go first, I'll follow once you're done."
Rinoa raised an eyebrow for a moment, then flashed another smile, "that isn't exactly what I meant."
He thought for a moment, then his eyes widened as he figured it out.
Squall shook his head and laughed, "you are evil, you know that?"
Rinoa fell into her classic ploy, waving her arms about as if in trance, "you will follow my commands, for I am the all powerful sorceress."
"Oh no you don't," he countered, grabbing her hands.
They stared into each others' eyes for a moment.
Rinoa smiled, raising her eyebrows, "so, how about it? Share the shower with me?"
Squall replied with a wolfish grin, "Hell yes."
Zell paced back and forth in front of the door to the library.
'Okay,' he thought, 'I've fought monsters and sorceresses and worse...I can do this.'
With a deep sigh, Zell walked into the library, and towards the receptionist.
He waved, "hi."
The girl looked up, and answered, "oh, hello. May I help you?"
"I'm Zell," he introduced himself.
The girl giggled slightly.
Zell's eyebrows furrowed, "what's wrong?"
She stifled her laughter to reply, "everyone in Garden knows who you are, Instructor Dincht."
Zell winced, "ugh...please, just call me Zell."
She grinned, "okay then, Zell..."
"So," he stammered, "you're name...it's uh...it's Leona, isn't it?"
She nodded, "you have a good memory."
Zell shrugged, "nah, just remember from the party-"
He mentally kicked himself, for that had been when he had nearly choked on the hotdogs.
Leona grinned, but made no comment, "so, what can I do for you?"
'A date would be nice,' he thought, but settled for, "I need your help."
He cursed himself, but figured there'd be plenty of chances along the way to ask her the other question.
"Help you?"
Zell nodded, "yeah, I need you and someone else to help me investigate some weird stuff over by the fire cave. Squall suggested you and someone from Galbadia Garden."
"Commander Lionheart?" she asked.
Zell shrugged again.
Leona nodded. Quistis was her new neighbor, so the Instructor must have dropped a line to the Commander about how she felt. It was thoughtful of Instructor Trepe, but extremely embarrassing. She tried hard to keep from blushing. Maybe Zell didn't know yet.
"I'd be happy to help," answered Leona.
"Great," said Zell, "so, shall we leave?"
"Right now?"
Zell nodded, "the sooner the better."
"...Okay..."
"Awesome," grinned Zell, as he accompanied her out the library, "by the way, what weapon do you use anyway?"
"Same as you," she answered, "fighting gloves. I'm also proficient in crossbows"
Zell blinked, looking her over, "fists? You? Then again..."
She only grinned.
He began to mutter, "compact body size...probably quick on your feet...I can see that..."
When they reached the garage, now converted to a semi-hangar, Zell chose one of the smaller aircraft and entered it. Ever since the sorceress war, Esthar had gone out of its way to help refit Seed with resources, up to and including a limited number of transport craft.
Zell grinned as he entered the control room with Leona. Squall had suggested a few months ago that Seed return the Ragnarok to Esthar, but Selphie wouldn't hear of it. She had even gone out of her way to make a flashy exit with it when she went off to Trabia with Irvine. The cadets on board, he heard, still suffered from whiplash weeks afterwards.
Zell took his seat, as did Leona. He then keyed in the coordinates for Galbadia Garden...
Seifer Almasy stood rocking in his chair, Fujin at parade rest on the opposite corner of the room. He was throwing darts across the room, at a target on the far wall. Most of them missed.
He sniffed, turning his attentions to the artwork on the bulkhead walls. Maybe those would be more fun for target practice....
Seifer shook his head, clearing it of stray thoughts, and glared back at the stony figure across the room.
"For Hyne's sake Fu," he sighed, "at ease. You're giving me a back ache just watching you stand like that."
Her lips twitched ever so slightly, and she eased her stance.
"YES SIR," she said.
"Oh come on," griped Seifer, "don't call me that Fujin. Just my first name will be enough."
Fujin was inwardly amused. She loved annoying Seifer that way, if only because it was one of the few things which got to him anymore.
"I swear," he groaned, "Squall is punishing me, making me Commander here. I have to go through the same shit that he does now."
He shook his head, laughing, "makes me appreciate the bastard despite myself."
A masculine voice came over his intercom, "Commander?"
Seifer replied, "yes?"
"Instructor Dincht from Balamb wishes to speak with you."
Seifer grinned, "oh really? Let him in."
Zell walked into the room, and nodded to Fujin and Seifer. Thank Hyne Leona was still in the transport, he didn't need this to get complicated in front of her.
"So, what brings you here...Zell?" asked Seifer.
Zell remembered a time when it would have been 'chicken wuss,' rather than his name, that was uttered in the address. However, their stations demanded a more...formal approach...unfortunately. Zell would welcome an excuse to mix it up with Seifer.
"Let's get straight down to business," snapped Zell.
"Honestly Dincht, you aren't fun anymore," said Seifer, "get riled once in a while."
Zell rolled his eyes, "there's a problem developing near the fire caverns."
Seifer's smile disappeared, "really? Do you know what it is?"
Down to business as always, that was Seifer. Zell could respect him for that, at least.
He shook his head, "I was going to go check it out myself, but the damn protocol states there has to be at least two qualified people to be there."
"What about the others at Balamb?" he asked.
"They're busy with preparations for tomorrow night's ceremony," explained Zell, "so Squall requested you send someone along for the ride."
Seifer nodded, "we're busy too. After all, we have to send our inductees to Balamb Garden for the commencement as well."
"I always wondered about that," said Zell, "why not hold your own?"
Fujin answered, "CENTRALIZED POWER."
Seifer nodded, "she's right. Balamb's the nerve center. Sending the cadets there maintains the official status of Seed. Unfortunately, even I have to give in to the nuances of bureaucracy. Actually, it was Trabia's idea, from Irvine I believe."
"So," asked Zell, "can you spare anyone?"
Seifer thought for a moment, then looked at Fujin.
She shrugged, "NEED ME?"
Seifer shook his head, "I think I can handle it for a while. Go check it out, have fun. If nothing else, the report should provide interesting reading."
She saluted.
"Okay then," said Zell, "I'm off."
Fujin turned to follow him.
"Fu," called Seifer.
She turned.
"You know, you're normal voice sounds fine to me, use it more often," he grinned.
"ORDER?" she asked.
He raised his eyebrow.
She smiled, then repeated, "is that an order?"
"Sure," he replied, "and Fujin? Take care of yourself."
She made an expression that Seifer didn't recognize, then turned to leave.
It wasn't until after she left that Seifer realized she had smiled. Not a smirk, or a twitch of her lips...a real smile.
He laughed, "well I'll be damned..."
Zell walked towards the ship, Fujin in tow. He looked back and forth along the halls, remembering that the last time he had been here, it had been as an invader.
"By the way," asked Zell gesturing to her eye, "what exactly caused that anyway?"
It was a commonly known fact that Fujin had experienced an accident years ago. The event had taken her left eye, and presumably part of her voice as well. It was a mystery whether the harsh voice she used was deliberate, psychological damage, or physical damage. What no one knew, whatsoever, is how it had all happened.
Fujin sniffed, "TATTOO? WHY?"
Zell laughed, at least she had a good sense of humor about it. And his face tattoo was rather unique. Zell may not have always agreed with Seifer and his posse, but he did respect them, sort of. And he'd sure rather have them as allies than enemies. Fujin was just as deadly with a pinwheel weapon as Rinoa was with hers.
The ship landed just beyond the fire cave, and three figures stepped out. Zell and Leona stretched for a while, as Fujin waited for them to continue.
Zell looked at her from the corner of his eye, "really girl, you hafta' learn to take it easy."
Fujin grunted, "THIS FROM YOU?"
She turned to the cave.
"Yeah, yeah," said Zell, "we're going."
Before the went on, however, Zell turned to Leona, "be careful, okay? You back us up if we need it."
The girl nodded.
The three walked up the path to the cave, and noticed the area was covered with ash...barren.
"It looks like Bahamut and Ifrit had a spaz fest here," stated Zell.
He internally spoke with his GF's, joking with them, 'you didn't, did you guys?'
Bahamut and Ifrit laughed.
Nay master, said Bahamut, for if we had, Ifrit's fiery corpse would be strewn across the land.
In your dreams dragon, snapped Ifrit.
'Okay guys, enough,' thought Zell.
He loved it when they fought. It amused Zell that his two patron GF's were as hotheaded as he was.
Zell immediately sobered as he neared the entrance to the cave.
"What the Hell?" he demanded.
Inside Zell's mind, Bahamut roared in outrage.
Verily, said Ifrit, what manner of beast has done this?
Fujin eyed the scene critically. She had wondered why no monsters attacked them on the way up, and here was there answer. They were all dead.
Heaps of bodies were strewn across the sides of the cave, as the three began to enter. Some of the bodies were smoldering, some weren't. It was probably just as well that the sulfur drowned out the sense of smell, or the stench would was been unbearable.
"What happened?" asked Leona, shocked.
"Don't know," replied Fujin.
Zell looked from side to side, as more corpses littered the cave, "whatever it is, this is serious bad shit."
The fires leapt up from around the brimstone pathway, adding a hellish aura to the whole affair.
Leona shrieked in horror as the ground around her feet crumbled.
Zell called out her name, and jumped after her. He caught her hand as she fell, and slowly pulled her up.
"LOOK OUT!" shouted Fujin.
Zell turned and ducked, covering Leona as a shower of fire engulfed the trio. Luckily for Zell, he had Ifrit junctioned, so fire didn't hurt him much. He covered Leona, sheltering her. But Fujin disappeared beneath the blaze.
"Fujin!" shouted Zell.
She weaved a spell of wind around her, casting back the fire. With a torrent of air and water, the fire was decimated.
Fujin emerged, brushing herself off.
Zell whistled, "nice moves."
She smiled back at him, "thanks."
Zell turned to Leona, "are you alright?"
She nodded, "just got surprised there for a moment."
"KEEP MOVING," suggested Fujin.
"I agree," said Zell, "let's find out what's going on here."
Then Zell heard Ifrit's voice in his mind
He relayed this message to the others.
"IFRIT?" asked Fujin.
Zell nodded, "he says something weird is going on."
"Let's go then," said Leona.
The three eventually came to Ifrit's old lair, and found...nothing. Which was strange. There was no fire, no monsters, nothing. Which shouldn't have been the case.
"Okay," demanded Leona, "what is going on here?"
She turned, and her eyes widened.
Leona ran into Zell, pushing him to the ground, as she cast Protect, forming a shield around the trio.
A wave of energy crashed into the field. It managed to hold some of the attack back, but the three were still floored by the bit that got through.
They groaned as they got up.
"Still in one piece?" asked Leona.
Zell nodded, "just pissed off with whoever's toying with us."
"AGREE," said Fujin.
"Then let us end this charade," spoke an echoing voice.
Veins of crystal within the stone surged with light, casting a glow upon the rock chamber. A dark figure jumped from above to land in front of them. It was huge...
Easily thirty feet high, the being was dressed in black cloth and armor...it was lupine in appearance. The creature was a tall, upright jackal.
"What the Hell?" demanded Zell.
"I am the GF Anuba," answered the creature, "and you must answer for trespassing."
TREACHEROUS WITCH! shouted Ifrit, THIS IS MY LAIR!
Zell covered his ears in futility, "not so loud Ifrit!"
The new GF seemed to have heard, "forgive me fellow Guardian, for I see these mortals are in your keeping, but they must be tested."
'What is she talking about?' asked Fujin of her GF.
I know not master, answered Pandemona.
Then Anuba attacked...
Miles away, a lone figure made his way through grassy plains and blue oceans. He was riding a chocobo, bouncing along unhappily on its back.
"I never could get used to these," said Greymalkin.
Odin and Griever laughed.
He came to a halt on an island in the north, west of Trabia Garden. He looked around to make sure he hadn't been followed. Then Greymalkin nodded, signaling the chocobo to leave.
"Wark!" it replied, before running away.
Greymalkin shook his head, "Next time, Odin, lend me your horse."
More laughter ensued.
My steed makes too much a scene, replied Odin, and now we require stealth.
Greymalkin nodded, "too true, although I fail to see how riding a giant, yellow buzzard doesn't constitute making a scene."
Griever laughed, apparently, not in this time era.
He shook his head, "the world needs its head examined."
Greymalkin continued to walk across the rocky plains. Finally, he made his way to an elevator, which took him down to a village.
The warrior made his way through the town, ignoring the strange looks he got from the short, yellow-skinned inhabitants, until he stopped in front of a larger building. He saw several strange, red, bipedal cats on either side of the structure, but they seemed to mean him no harm. It was almost as if they were standing at attention...like gaurds letting him pass...
He made his way in, coming face to face with a being he assumed to be the village elder, wearing such voluminous robes as he was. His eyes were blue, and his skin the same yellow as everyone else in this village.
"Greetings," said the elder, "your coming has caused quite a stir in the village. What brings you to our lands?"
Greymalkin nodded. Obviously, news traveled fast around here.
He got to the point immediately, "I have come for the GF Phoenix."
The elder's eyes widened, as did his aide's.
Griever chuckled, that should surprise them.
The elder let nothing else slip, as he assumed his calm posture again, "my good sir, what makes you think WE have it? No recorded knowledge knows of a way to successfully contain the Phoenix as an ordinary GF."
"Still," said Greymalkin, "you possessed one of the few artifacts capable of summoning the Phoenix, if only for a short while."
The elder nodded, remembering how he had given that particular item to the leader of Seed. Leonheart had been quite grateful through the course of the months, sending the Shumi supplies every now and then, and generally keeping tabs on their status. It was more than any other human had done for them before, save one. It had to be in the breeding.
The elder brought his attention back to the task at hand, "other than that, I cannot see why you would believe us to know of its whereabouts."
"Because," answered Greymalkin, "you are the keepers of a trust made long ago...by the Sorceress Hyne..."
The aide gasped, but stopped himself as the elder glared at him.
The Shumi composed himself, "and what would I ask of one who made such a statement?"
Greymalkin smiled, knowing how this game was played, "you would ask to see proof, a mark that would verify the truth."
"And have you such...proof?"
Greymalkin drew back his cloak, although it still covered his face, and raised his shirt and armor. He exposed the skin below his ribs, displaying a tattoo-like scar.
"The mark of the sorceress," said Greymalkin.
The elder nodded, "that proves you are who was chosen to come, but how do we know your worth?"
A voice rose from Greymalkin's body, emanating through the room.
Odin spoke to the elder, because, I, the Guardian Odin, watch over him.
As do I, Griever.
The aide stepped back, confounded, "the invincible GF's, the destined knight..."
Greymalkin shook his head, "do not mock them with your titles, nor I, nor the others who will follow. We only seek to accomplish the task at hand."
The elder nodded, "spoken like the true chosen. Come with me, I shall take you to her, to the Phoenix..."
Zell jumped over a blast of energy, retaliating with an ice spell. The attack was deflected, and he jumped to the side to avoid getting frozen.
Leona stood her ground before him, casting several spells to occupy Anuba, while Zell got to his feet.
He grinned as he got up, wiping the blood on his chin with the back of his hand, "get back Leona."
She obliged, as Zell summoned Ifrit.
The GF came instantly, roaring at Anuba, as he brought forth a ball of fire to strike at the creature. The jackal leapt out of the way, but was still pummeled by flaming shards.
Fujin yelled at the others to get away, and they quickly backed off as she summoned her own GF. Pandemona made its attack as well, flinging the jackal through the air, but still it stood its ground.
Zell clenched his fists, "that tears it! Suck this! BAHAMUT!"
The King of Dragons made his appearance, raining down a shower of blasts at Anuba. The GF fell under the wave of attacks, and Bahamut withdrew.
Zell shook his fist in the air, "sweet!"
Then the ground in front of them quaked and cracked, and Zell gawked as the creature stood up again, casting aside chunks of rock and earth. growling in outrage.
"Aw man," said Zell, "you have got to be shitting me!"
Fujin and Leona flanked his sides, preparing for another attack.
Anuba rushed toward them, and Leona summoned several attack spells, sending waves of Ultima, Flare, and Firaga at the beast.
The GF growled in rage as the attacks hit, faltering slightly before continuing.
Then something clicked in Fujin's mind, as if were a natural answer.
Before Zell could attack, she stepped forward, raising her hands.
"STOP!" she commanded.
The GF halted.
What happened next, even Fujin could not explain. The GF seemed to...speak into her mind.
'Wait,' thought Fujin, 'tell us why you are here, and what you want. We shall leave you in peace, if you wish, so long as you no longer threaten us or our young cadets.'
You are learning, young one, nodded Anuba, but even I know not the entire purpose of things. Only to judge and join you, should you prove worthy.
Fujin gathered her thoughts.
'We could fight here indefinitely,' she reflected, 'to no use.'
The jackal nodded.
It is wise, agreed the GF, to consider the purpose of things, in order to diffuse them...
Zell and Leona looked on with amazement. Why had the fighting stopped?
"Do you know what's happening?" asked Leona.
Zell shook his head, "I've seen some weird stuff, but I have no clue on this one."
'Will you join us?' asked Fujin.
I shall, replied Anuba.
She disappeared, and tendrils of energies struck through the air from where the GF had been, entering Fujin.
The Seed convulsed as the electricity surged through her.
Leona started forward, but Zell grabbed her arm.
"Wait," he shouted, "you don't want to get fried! Let me!"
He slowly paced forward, despite the prevailing winds. But all too soon, it was gone, as was the electricity.
They watched in awe, as strange translucent armor appeared over her body, adding an aura over her blue clothes. Then, just as mysteriously, it vanished, leaving her in her dark fatigues and blue tank top.
The two walked up to Fujin, helping her up.
She groaned in pain, rubbing her hands through her face and hair.
"Are you alright?" asked Leona.
Fujin nodded, "I'm fine."
Zell turned to her, "you used your normal voice."
Fujin furrowed her eyebrows, "did I?"
Then she looked up, and Zell jumped back in fear.
Fujin cocked her head to the side, "what is it?"
Zell pointed with his finger, "yo-you're left eye...."
Leona turned to look, and gasped. Fujin's eye patch was gone, and where her left eye should have been, a green glow emanated. Slowly however, the glimmer faded...leaving her eye whole.
Fujin brought her face to her temples, rubbing her aching forehead, "get me out of here."
Zell shook his head, "like I said, 'weird shit'...help me Leona."
When they reached the outside, Fujin blinked, wavering on her feet slightly.
Fujin turned to the others, "I...I can see...out of both eyes."
Zell stared at her, "but...how is that possible?"
Fujin raised her hand, as if to stop him.
'Anuba,' she asked, 'is it you?'
The GF laughed, a side effect, it seems.
She nodded, relaying the knowledge to the others.
"Well I'll be damned," said Zell.
They finally made their way past the fields outside the cavern, where grass still grew."
Leona stretched, "oh finally, we are out of range of that dreadful cave."
Zell laughed as he heard the grumbling of his GF, "Ifrit doesn't agree."
She smiled, "he doesn't have the woman's touch to home decorating either."
Zell laughed even harder, hearing Bahamut laugh with him, past Ifrit's cursing.
"By the way," she said, "thanks."
"Don't mention it," replied Zell, "I did ask you to come with me, after all."
"Still, I should thank you properly for the...interesting time."
"How about we share a few hot dogs at lunch some time?" he ventured.
Leona nodded, "deal...as long as you don't choke on them."
Zell blushed slightly, and looked at Fujin. He did a double take. Her left eye was covered again.
"Hey Fujin," he asked, "why are you wearing the eye patch again?"
She shrugged, "I'm used to it."
Fujin walked on ahead, shaking her head as she wondered how they were going to explain all this. She had gotten her voice back, as well as her eyesight, and had a new GF as well.
Greymalkin walked away from the Shumi village, talking to his GF's.
I don't understand, wondered Griever, why don't you junction the Phoenix?
'It is not yet time for her to make her appearance,' answered Greymalkin, 'nor you. And she is not mine to junction.'
He felt a rending sensation in his mind, but only for a brief moment. Then it was gone.
"What was that?" he asked.
Odin replied, someone has found Anuba, and junctioned to her.
'Anuba...doesn't she have powers over death and healing?' asked Greymalkin.
And more besides, said Griever.
'Do the Illuminati know of our presence yet?' asked Greymalkin.
Nay master, said Odin, although the Centra Seed spy nets are beginning to circulate tales concerning a 'Nightwarrior.'
Greymalkin nodded, 'let them.'
He trekked down the path to the south, heading towards Balamb. He had more work to do, after all...
Author's Note: Geez, sorry the GF quotes didn't show...have no explanation for that. This was one long chapter! Of course, considering how I haven't updated for so long...sorry people. Alright, interesting stuff is happening. But I am a little disappointed in the lack of slam-bang fight scenes. But I knew from the beginning that this story was going to be more, 'cloak and dagger,' like I said before. Oh well, I hope the audience is enjoying this. I'm having fun, and I am delving more into the characters' lives, rather than just the fights. But don't worry, actions scenes will abound, just expect more of the extraneous stuff than usual. Keep reading and sending feedback, and thanks again. Dragon hunting is next! T-Rexaurs too...
by: Gemini83
Disclaimer: You know it, I don't own FF8. But I do own this story.
Months later...
Squall was in his office room, rifling through more paperwork. He turned in his chair, looking out the window to the ocean beyond.
"Tell me again Xu," he groaned, "why'd I take this job?"
She laughed, "because you were born to it."
He rolled his eyes and shrugged, leaning back in his chair, "Yeah, sure...whatever."
Quistis entered the room, and looked at Squall, smiling, "difficulties of the job?"
"You have no idea," he replied.
She nodded to Xu.
Xu nodded back, "so, Quistis, what is it?"
She shrugged, "oh nothing, more paperwork. As head of the disciplinary committee, I now have the glorious job or working with Dr. Kadowaki for the psyche reports."
Squall rubbed his temples, "hmm...I don't remember Seifer doing that back when he had the job."
Quistis grinned, "that was why he kept Fujin around. Actually, she seconds for him even now, although he is Commander at Galbadia Garden."
He nodded, looking up at the marble top ceiling, rubbing his temples to coax himself awake.
Xu shook her head, "honestly Squall, I still don't see why you made him a Commander."
He looked back down, and shrugged, "you didn't want the job. Besides, Seifer and I...have an understanding."
"You could have given it to Irvine," she countered.
Squall shook his head, "he went off with Selphie to rebuild Trabia Garden, remember?"
Quistis nodded, "which reminds me. Irvine sends his greetings."
Squall raised a questioning eyebrow.
"I had Quistis look into resource management for the other three Gardens," explained Xu.
Squall nodded, remembering. Balamb and Galbadia had been the only two functional Gardens after the Sorceress War. Trabia was getting back on its feet. However, what had caught everyone off guard was Edea's surprise. The former White Seed had been amassing resources for years in secret. Now that they could come out in the open, they set up a branch of Seed in Centra ruins, near Matron's old home. Currently, they occupied themselves with setting up a spy net, alerting Seed to troubles that may arise. And recently, strange things had been happening...
He didn't know who the Commander there was, but apparently, Cid and Edea had found a competent mind to help them run things.
"Nida sends his greetings Xu," said Quistis.
Xu smiled back, nodding. Nida had been transferred to help with the construction of Centra Garden, but he still dropped a line from time to time.
"Which reminds me Squall," continued Quistis, cutting into his thoughts, "Laguna wanted to speak with you."
Squall blinked, "the President of Esthar? What for?"
She shrugged, "we did rely on them heavily for helping us rebuild, and Fisherman's Horizon did dock Galbadia Garden for a while. Perhaps he wanted to discuss some business?"
Squall nodded, "fine, put him on the intercom."
Quistis shook her head, "he wants to see you in person."
Xu looked up at Quistis.
She spread her hands, "don't ask me why."
Squall nodded, "alright, I'll see him later this week."
"He'll be here tomorrow night," said Quistis.
"What?" demanded Xu, "but we'll have to prepare-"
"He wanted it low key," said Quistis, "during the inauguration of new the Seed cadets tomorrow."
"We have one tomorrow?" asked Squall.
Quistis covered her face with her hands, hiding a laugh.
Xu sighed, "I do wish you'd remember these things..."
"Fine," nodded Squall, "set it up. I'm going to my room for a while."
The two women nodded as he walked out the door.
"What is this about?" asked Quistis.
"Perhaps we can ask Squall to tell us afterwards?" hazarded Xu.
Quistis sniffed in amusement, "knowing Squall, it may be like pulling teeth."
He walked calmly down the halls of Balamb Garden, nodding to the cadets and staff as they saluted him in passing. He didn't bother to stay and talk, even though he was popular around here for some odd reason. The people at Balamb liked him, but he was grateful for it, despite the awkwardness.
Squall got into the elevator, and pushed the button for the bottom floor. He turned to look out the glass behind him, taking in the lower tier from above. It looked much better, now that they had cleaned up the mess left behind after the Galbadian invasion. The shrubbery wasn't burnt and overridden anymore. The marble wasn't cracked. Things were as they should be.
The elevator came to an abrupt halt, one floor above Squall's destination.
Zell rushed in, panting, "Squall...I was...looking for you."
"Slow down Zell," he replied, "take a breathe."
Zell complied, taking several great gulps of air before continuing, "we've had some problems near the old cave training area."
Squall raised an eyebrow, "why? Ifrit isn't there anymore, is he?"
"Naw," discounted Zell, "I have him junctioned. But some of the students I've been teaching have been getting into scrapes near there, training for the field exam. Apparently, there's some strange noises and activity coming from the cave."
They reached the first floor, and Zell accompanied Squall through the hallways to the dorms.
"Does Ifrit have anything to say about it?"
Zell shook his head.
Although it wasn't common knowledge, if a person developed enough compatibility with their GF's, it was possible to communicate with them, through the part of the mind which shared emotions with the elementals.
Zell continued, "I've punished some of the students for going there without the right precautions."
Squall stared at him, "punishment? You?"
Zell groaned, "gee, even Squall is picking on me. Yeah, I know. But ever since you made me Instructor of combat training, I've had to set down a few rules, which pisses me off. I hate it, makes me feel too much like Seifer."
Squall held back a grin, "so, what did you want?"
"Well," replied Zell, "I wanted to check it out with one of the others."
Squall nodded, "you have my permission, but there's only one problem."
"What's that?" asked Zell.
"We are short of experienced staff at the moment," he explained, "Quistis and Xu are busy with tonight's preparations, and anyone else qualified to check it out are busy fixing up Centra and Trabia Gardens. That leaves Galbadia Garden."
Zell groaned, "oh great, you mean I have to ask Seifer for help?"
Squall shrugged, "you could do worse."
"Not by much," snapped Zell, "I'd rather go it alone."
"No you won't," ordered Squall, "it's protocol. Take a student from here, in case, and have Seifer lend you someone. Understood?"
Zell sighed, "fine Squall, anyone in mind?"
Squall shrugged, "how about the girl you've been trying to date for the past month? You know, the one that works in the library?"
The two remained silent as the elevator drew to a halt, the chime of the bell ushering them out.
Zell blinked, staring at him, "wait a sec, is...Squall...giving me girl advice?"
Leonhart groaned, "not me, it was Rinoa's idea. She keeps telling me to encourage you, so I am. Now, go and do...whatever. Make sure you file a report when you get back."
"Okay, just don't ask me to enjoy it..."
Zell walked off half-dejectedly. It wasn't a total loss, after all, he could make his move now...
Squall shook his head. If he could get over Seifer, Zell could at least try to as well. In fact, it had surprised everyone, himself included, when Squall had recommended Seifer as Commander of Galbadia Garden. It had seemed...right somehow. That, and he had reached an...understanding with Seifer. Of course, that didn't mean they saw each other more than absolutely necessary, fate could only be tempted so much.
Squall keyed the password to his room, and swiped his identification card before entering. He turned on the lights, although the sunlight was already peeking in though the windows.
Rinoa turned around, slightly surprised, "oh, Squall. You forgot to knock."
Squall smiled ever so slightly, as he was wont to do when she was near, "in my own room?"
"OUR room," stressed Rinoa.
Squall nodded, "right, so how are your classes going?"
Rinoa sighed exasperatedly, collapsing onto the bed, "I can't believe those kids. One of them tried to learn how to cast a Firaga, and set fire to a table. Then another student put it out...by casting Blizzaga on the desk. It broke into a million pieces, but only after the sprinklers came on."
It was then he noticed that Rinoa's clothes were slightly wet, and her damp hair was clinging to her skin. She looked quite striking, in a primal sort of way, and the way she lounged on the bed was quite fetching...
"I swear Squall," laughed Rinoa, "some days, I think you making me the magic Instructor appeals to the sadist inside you."
Squall grinned, "indeed. Well, I've had a busy day, I think I'll take a shower."
Rinoa sat up, "oh no you don't, I was going to take one."
Squall shook his head, "you have your own room."
"Which I never use," countered Rinoa.
"Don't remind me," groaned Squall, "Quistis says you're the best neighbor she's ever had. You never make any noise, since you're never around."
"Speaking of which," she said, "she got a new one, seeing as how I didn't need the room. You know the girl in the library? The one that Zell likes? She's the new neighbor."
Squall nodded, no wonder Rinoa had been bugging him about it recently.
"So, now we officially share this double," she finished.
"You forget this isn't really a double," reminded Squall, "just a room twice the normal size."
"A fact I conveniently overlooked," Rinoa walked up to him, caressing his face, "do you mind?"
Squall grinned back, wrapping his arms about her waist, "not at all."
They closed together for a short kiss, then Squall drew back.
"We still have a problem of who gets the shower."
Rinoa shrugged, backing away, "we'll have to share Squall."
Squall grunted, "fine, you go first, I'll follow once you're done."
Rinoa raised an eyebrow for a moment, then flashed another smile, "that isn't exactly what I meant."
He thought for a moment, then his eyes widened as he figured it out.
Squall shook his head and laughed, "you are evil, you know that?"
Rinoa fell into her classic ploy, waving her arms about as if in trance, "you will follow my commands, for I am the all powerful sorceress."
"Oh no you don't," he countered, grabbing her hands.
They stared into each others' eyes for a moment.
Rinoa smiled, raising her eyebrows, "so, how about it? Share the shower with me?"
Squall replied with a wolfish grin, "Hell yes."
Zell paced back and forth in front of the door to the library.
'Okay,' he thought, 'I've fought monsters and sorceresses and worse...I can do this.'
With a deep sigh, Zell walked into the library, and towards the receptionist.
He waved, "hi."
The girl looked up, and answered, "oh, hello. May I help you?"
"I'm Zell," he introduced himself.
The girl giggled slightly.
Zell's eyebrows furrowed, "what's wrong?"
She stifled her laughter to reply, "everyone in Garden knows who you are, Instructor Dincht."
Zell winced, "ugh...please, just call me Zell."
She grinned, "okay then, Zell..."
"So," he stammered, "you're name...it's uh...it's Leona, isn't it?"
She nodded, "you have a good memory."
Zell shrugged, "nah, just remember from the party-"
He mentally kicked himself, for that had been when he had nearly choked on the hotdogs.
Leona grinned, but made no comment, "so, what can I do for you?"
'A date would be nice,' he thought, but settled for, "I need your help."
He cursed himself, but figured there'd be plenty of chances along the way to ask her the other question.
"Help you?"
Zell nodded, "yeah, I need you and someone else to help me investigate some weird stuff over by the fire cave. Squall suggested you and someone from Galbadia Garden."
"Commander Lionheart?" she asked.
Zell shrugged again.
Leona nodded. Quistis was her new neighbor, so the Instructor must have dropped a line to the Commander about how she felt. It was thoughtful of Instructor Trepe, but extremely embarrassing. She tried hard to keep from blushing. Maybe Zell didn't know yet.
"I'd be happy to help," answered Leona.
"Great," said Zell, "so, shall we leave?"
"Right now?"
Zell nodded, "the sooner the better."
"...Okay..."
"Awesome," grinned Zell, as he accompanied her out the library, "by the way, what weapon do you use anyway?"
"Same as you," she answered, "fighting gloves. I'm also proficient in crossbows"
Zell blinked, looking her over, "fists? You? Then again..."
She only grinned.
He began to mutter, "compact body size...probably quick on your feet...I can see that..."
When they reached the garage, now converted to a semi-hangar, Zell chose one of the smaller aircraft and entered it. Ever since the sorceress war, Esthar had gone out of its way to help refit Seed with resources, up to and including a limited number of transport craft.
Zell grinned as he entered the control room with Leona. Squall had suggested a few months ago that Seed return the Ragnarok to Esthar, but Selphie wouldn't hear of it. She had even gone out of her way to make a flashy exit with it when she went off to Trabia with Irvine. The cadets on board, he heard, still suffered from whiplash weeks afterwards.
Zell took his seat, as did Leona. He then keyed in the coordinates for Galbadia Garden...
Seifer Almasy stood rocking in his chair, Fujin at parade rest on the opposite corner of the room. He was throwing darts across the room, at a target on the far wall. Most of them missed.
He sniffed, turning his attentions to the artwork on the bulkhead walls. Maybe those would be more fun for target practice....
Seifer shook his head, clearing it of stray thoughts, and glared back at the stony figure across the room.
"For Hyne's sake Fu," he sighed, "at ease. You're giving me a back ache just watching you stand like that."
Her lips twitched ever so slightly, and she eased her stance.
"YES SIR," she said.
"Oh come on," griped Seifer, "don't call me that Fujin. Just my first name will be enough."
Fujin was inwardly amused. She loved annoying Seifer that way, if only because it was one of the few things which got to him anymore.
"I swear," he groaned, "Squall is punishing me, making me Commander here. I have to go through the same shit that he does now."
He shook his head, laughing, "makes me appreciate the bastard despite myself."
A masculine voice came over his intercom, "Commander?"
Seifer replied, "yes?"
"Instructor Dincht from Balamb wishes to speak with you."
Seifer grinned, "oh really? Let him in."
Zell walked into the room, and nodded to Fujin and Seifer. Thank Hyne Leona was still in the transport, he didn't need this to get complicated in front of her.
"So, what brings you here...Zell?" asked Seifer.
Zell remembered a time when it would have been 'chicken wuss,' rather than his name, that was uttered in the address. However, their stations demanded a more...formal approach...unfortunately. Zell would welcome an excuse to mix it up with Seifer.
"Let's get straight down to business," snapped Zell.
"Honestly Dincht, you aren't fun anymore," said Seifer, "get riled once in a while."
Zell rolled his eyes, "there's a problem developing near the fire caverns."
Seifer's smile disappeared, "really? Do you know what it is?"
Down to business as always, that was Seifer. Zell could respect him for that, at least.
He shook his head, "I was going to go check it out myself, but the damn protocol states there has to be at least two qualified people to be there."
"What about the others at Balamb?" he asked.
"They're busy with preparations for tomorrow night's ceremony," explained Zell, "so Squall requested you send someone along for the ride."
Seifer nodded, "we're busy too. After all, we have to send our inductees to Balamb Garden for the commencement as well."
"I always wondered about that," said Zell, "why not hold your own?"
Fujin answered, "CENTRALIZED POWER."
Seifer nodded, "she's right. Balamb's the nerve center. Sending the cadets there maintains the official status of Seed. Unfortunately, even I have to give in to the nuances of bureaucracy. Actually, it was Trabia's idea, from Irvine I believe."
"So," asked Zell, "can you spare anyone?"
Seifer thought for a moment, then looked at Fujin.
She shrugged, "NEED ME?"
Seifer shook his head, "I think I can handle it for a while. Go check it out, have fun. If nothing else, the report should provide interesting reading."
She saluted.
"Okay then," said Zell, "I'm off."
Fujin turned to follow him.
"Fu," called Seifer.
She turned.
"You know, you're normal voice sounds fine to me, use it more often," he grinned.
"ORDER?" she asked.
He raised his eyebrow.
She smiled, then repeated, "is that an order?"
"Sure," he replied, "and Fujin? Take care of yourself."
She made an expression that Seifer didn't recognize, then turned to leave.
It wasn't until after she left that Seifer realized she had smiled. Not a smirk, or a twitch of her lips...a real smile.
He laughed, "well I'll be damned..."
Zell walked towards the ship, Fujin in tow. He looked back and forth along the halls, remembering that the last time he had been here, it had been as an invader.
"By the way," asked Zell gesturing to her eye, "what exactly caused that anyway?"
It was a commonly known fact that Fujin had experienced an accident years ago. The event had taken her left eye, and presumably part of her voice as well. It was a mystery whether the harsh voice she used was deliberate, psychological damage, or physical damage. What no one knew, whatsoever, is how it had all happened.
Fujin sniffed, "TATTOO? WHY?"
Zell laughed, at least she had a good sense of humor about it. And his face tattoo was rather unique. Zell may not have always agreed with Seifer and his posse, but he did respect them, sort of. And he'd sure rather have them as allies than enemies. Fujin was just as deadly with a pinwheel weapon as Rinoa was with hers.
The ship landed just beyond the fire cave, and three figures stepped out. Zell and Leona stretched for a while, as Fujin waited for them to continue.
Zell looked at her from the corner of his eye, "really girl, you hafta' learn to take it easy."
Fujin grunted, "THIS FROM YOU?"
She turned to the cave.
"Yeah, yeah," said Zell, "we're going."
Before the went on, however, Zell turned to Leona, "be careful, okay? You back us up if we need it."
The girl nodded.
The three walked up the path to the cave, and noticed the area was covered with ash...barren.
"It looks like Bahamut and Ifrit had a spaz fest here," stated Zell.
He internally spoke with his GF's, joking with them, 'you didn't, did you guys?'
Bahamut and Ifrit laughed.
Nay master, said Bahamut, for if we had, Ifrit's fiery corpse would be strewn across the land.
In your dreams dragon, snapped Ifrit.
'Okay guys, enough,' thought Zell.
He loved it when they fought. It amused Zell that his two patron GF's were as hotheaded as he was.
Zell immediately sobered as he neared the entrance to the cave.
"What the Hell?" he demanded.
Inside Zell's mind, Bahamut roared in outrage.
Verily, said Ifrit, what manner of beast has done this?
Fujin eyed the scene critically. She had wondered why no monsters attacked them on the way up, and here was there answer. They were all dead.
Heaps of bodies were strewn across the sides of the cave, as the three began to enter. Some of the bodies were smoldering, some weren't. It was probably just as well that the sulfur drowned out the sense of smell, or the stench would was been unbearable.
"What happened?" asked Leona, shocked.
"Don't know," replied Fujin.
Zell looked from side to side, as more corpses littered the cave, "whatever it is, this is serious bad shit."
The fires leapt up from around the brimstone pathway, adding a hellish aura to the whole affair.
Leona shrieked in horror as the ground around her feet crumbled.
Zell called out her name, and jumped after her. He caught her hand as she fell, and slowly pulled her up.
"LOOK OUT!" shouted Fujin.
Zell turned and ducked, covering Leona as a shower of fire engulfed the trio. Luckily for Zell, he had Ifrit junctioned, so fire didn't hurt him much. He covered Leona, sheltering her. But Fujin disappeared beneath the blaze.
"Fujin!" shouted Zell.
She weaved a spell of wind around her, casting back the fire. With a torrent of air and water, the fire was decimated.
Fujin emerged, brushing herself off.
Zell whistled, "nice moves."
She smiled back at him, "thanks."
Zell turned to Leona, "are you alright?"
She nodded, "just got surprised there for a moment."
"KEEP MOVING," suggested Fujin.
"I agree," said Zell, "let's find out what's going on here."
Then Zell heard Ifrit's voice in his mind
He relayed this message to the others.
"IFRIT?" asked Fujin.
Zell nodded, "he says something weird is going on."
"Let's go then," said Leona.
The three eventually came to Ifrit's old lair, and found...nothing. Which was strange. There was no fire, no monsters, nothing. Which shouldn't have been the case.
"Okay," demanded Leona, "what is going on here?"
She turned, and her eyes widened.
Leona ran into Zell, pushing him to the ground, as she cast Protect, forming a shield around the trio.
A wave of energy crashed into the field. It managed to hold some of the attack back, but the three were still floored by the bit that got through.
They groaned as they got up.
"Still in one piece?" asked Leona.
Zell nodded, "just pissed off with whoever's toying with us."
"AGREE," said Fujin.
"Then let us end this charade," spoke an echoing voice.
Veins of crystal within the stone surged with light, casting a glow upon the rock chamber. A dark figure jumped from above to land in front of them. It was huge...
Easily thirty feet high, the being was dressed in black cloth and armor...it was lupine in appearance. The creature was a tall, upright jackal.
"What the Hell?" demanded Zell.
"I am the GF Anuba," answered the creature, "and you must answer for trespassing."
TREACHEROUS WITCH! shouted Ifrit, THIS IS MY LAIR!
Zell covered his ears in futility, "not so loud Ifrit!"
The new GF seemed to have heard, "forgive me fellow Guardian, for I see these mortals are in your keeping, but they must be tested."
'What is she talking about?' asked Fujin of her GF.
I know not master, answered Pandemona.
Then Anuba attacked...
Miles away, a lone figure made his way through grassy plains and blue oceans. He was riding a chocobo, bouncing along unhappily on its back.
"I never could get used to these," said Greymalkin.
Odin and Griever laughed.
He came to a halt on an island in the north, west of Trabia Garden. He looked around to make sure he hadn't been followed. Then Greymalkin nodded, signaling the chocobo to leave.
"Wark!" it replied, before running away.
Greymalkin shook his head, "Next time, Odin, lend me your horse."
More laughter ensued.
My steed makes too much a scene, replied Odin, and now we require stealth.
Greymalkin nodded, "too true, although I fail to see how riding a giant, yellow buzzard doesn't constitute making a scene."
Griever laughed, apparently, not in this time era.
He shook his head, "the world needs its head examined."
Greymalkin continued to walk across the rocky plains. Finally, he made his way to an elevator, which took him down to a village.
The warrior made his way through the town, ignoring the strange looks he got from the short, yellow-skinned inhabitants, until he stopped in front of a larger building. He saw several strange, red, bipedal cats on either side of the structure, but they seemed to mean him no harm. It was almost as if they were standing at attention...like gaurds letting him pass...
He made his way in, coming face to face with a being he assumed to be the village elder, wearing such voluminous robes as he was. His eyes were blue, and his skin the same yellow as everyone else in this village.
"Greetings," said the elder, "your coming has caused quite a stir in the village. What brings you to our lands?"
Greymalkin nodded. Obviously, news traveled fast around here.
He got to the point immediately, "I have come for the GF Phoenix."
The elder's eyes widened, as did his aide's.
Griever chuckled, that should surprise them.
The elder let nothing else slip, as he assumed his calm posture again, "my good sir, what makes you think WE have it? No recorded knowledge knows of a way to successfully contain the Phoenix as an ordinary GF."
"Still," said Greymalkin, "you possessed one of the few artifacts capable of summoning the Phoenix, if only for a short while."
The elder nodded, remembering how he had given that particular item to the leader of Seed. Leonheart had been quite grateful through the course of the months, sending the Shumi supplies every now and then, and generally keeping tabs on their status. It was more than any other human had done for them before, save one. It had to be in the breeding.
The elder brought his attention back to the task at hand, "other than that, I cannot see why you would believe us to know of its whereabouts."
"Because," answered Greymalkin, "you are the keepers of a trust made long ago...by the Sorceress Hyne..."
The aide gasped, but stopped himself as the elder glared at him.
The Shumi composed himself, "and what would I ask of one who made such a statement?"
Greymalkin smiled, knowing how this game was played, "you would ask to see proof, a mark that would verify the truth."
"And have you such...proof?"
Greymalkin drew back his cloak, although it still covered his face, and raised his shirt and armor. He exposed the skin below his ribs, displaying a tattoo-like scar.
"The mark of the sorceress," said Greymalkin.
The elder nodded, "that proves you are who was chosen to come, but how do we know your worth?"
A voice rose from Greymalkin's body, emanating through the room.
Odin spoke to the elder, because, I, the Guardian Odin, watch over him.
As do I, Griever.
The aide stepped back, confounded, "the invincible GF's, the destined knight..."
Greymalkin shook his head, "do not mock them with your titles, nor I, nor the others who will follow. We only seek to accomplish the task at hand."
The elder nodded, "spoken like the true chosen. Come with me, I shall take you to her, to the Phoenix..."
Zell jumped over a blast of energy, retaliating with an ice spell. The attack was deflected, and he jumped to the side to avoid getting frozen.
Leona stood her ground before him, casting several spells to occupy Anuba, while Zell got to his feet.
He grinned as he got up, wiping the blood on his chin with the back of his hand, "get back Leona."
She obliged, as Zell summoned Ifrit.
The GF came instantly, roaring at Anuba, as he brought forth a ball of fire to strike at the creature. The jackal leapt out of the way, but was still pummeled by flaming shards.
Fujin yelled at the others to get away, and they quickly backed off as she summoned her own GF. Pandemona made its attack as well, flinging the jackal through the air, but still it stood its ground.
Zell clenched his fists, "that tears it! Suck this! BAHAMUT!"
The King of Dragons made his appearance, raining down a shower of blasts at Anuba. The GF fell under the wave of attacks, and Bahamut withdrew.
Zell shook his fist in the air, "sweet!"
Then the ground in front of them quaked and cracked, and Zell gawked as the creature stood up again, casting aside chunks of rock and earth. growling in outrage.
"Aw man," said Zell, "you have got to be shitting me!"
Fujin and Leona flanked his sides, preparing for another attack.
Anuba rushed toward them, and Leona summoned several attack spells, sending waves of Ultima, Flare, and Firaga at the beast.
The GF growled in rage as the attacks hit, faltering slightly before continuing.
Then something clicked in Fujin's mind, as if were a natural answer.
Before Zell could attack, she stepped forward, raising her hands.
"STOP!" she commanded.
The GF halted.
What happened next, even Fujin could not explain. The GF seemed to...speak into her mind.
'Wait,' thought Fujin, 'tell us why you are here, and what you want. We shall leave you in peace, if you wish, so long as you no longer threaten us or our young cadets.'
You are learning, young one, nodded Anuba, but even I know not the entire purpose of things. Only to judge and join you, should you prove worthy.
Fujin gathered her thoughts.
'We could fight here indefinitely,' she reflected, 'to no use.'
The jackal nodded.
It is wise, agreed the GF, to consider the purpose of things, in order to diffuse them...
Zell and Leona looked on with amazement. Why had the fighting stopped?
"Do you know what's happening?" asked Leona.
Zell shook his head, "I've seen some weird stuff, but I have no clue on this one."
'Will you join us?' asked Fujin.
I shall, replied Anuba.
She disappeared, and tendrils of energies struck through the air from where the GF had been, entering Fujin.
The Seed convulsed as the electricity surged through her.
Leona started forward, but Zell grabbed her arm.
"Wait," he shouted, "you don't want to get fried! Let me!"
He slowly paced forward, despite the prevailing winds. But all too soon, it was gone, as was the electricity.
They watched in awe, as strange translucent armor appeared over her body, adding an aura over her blue clothes. Then, just as mysteriously, it vanished, leaving her in her dark fatigues and blue tank top.
The two walked up to Fujin, helping her up.
She groaned in pain, rubbing her hands through her face and hair.
"Are you alright?" asked Leona.
Fujin nodded, "I'm fine."
Zell turned to her, "you used your normal voice."
Fujin furrowed her eyebrows, "did I?"
Then she looked up, and Zell jumped back in fear.
Fujin cocked her head to the side, "what is it?"
Zell pointed with his finger, "yo-you're left eye...."
Leona turned to look, and gasped. Fujin's eye patch was gone, and where her left eye should have been, a green glow emanated. Slowly however, the glimmer faded...leaving her eye whole.
Fujin brought her face to her temples, rubbing her aching forehead, "get me out of here."
Zell shook his head, "like I said, 'weird shit'...help me Leona."
When they reached the outside, Fujin blinked, wavering on her feet slightly.
Fujin turned to the others, "I...I can see...out of both eyes."
Zell stared at her, "but...how is that possible?"
Fujin raised her hand, as if to stop him.
'Anuba,' she asked, 'is it you?'
The GF laughed, a side effect, it seems.
She nodded, relaying the knowledge to the others.
"Well I'll be damned," said Zell.
They finally made their way past the fields outside the cavern, where grass still grew."
Leona stretched, "oh finally, we are out of range of that dreadful cave."
Zell laughed as he heard the grumbling of his GF, "Ifrit doesn't agree."
She smiled, "he doesn't have the woman's touch to home decorating either."
Zell laughed even harder, hearing Bahamut laugh with him, past Ifrit's cursing.
"By the way," she said, "thanks."
"Don't mention it," replied Zell, "I did ask you to come with me, after all."
"Still, I should thank you properly for the...interesting time."
"How about we share a few hot dogs at lunch some time?" he ventured.
Leona nodded, "deal...as long as you don't choke on them."
Zell blushed slightly, and looked at Fujin. He did a double take. Her left eye was covered again.
"Hey Fujin," he asked, "why are you wearing the eye patch again?"
She shrugged, "I'm used to it."
Fujin walked on ahead, shaking her head as she wondered how they were going to explain all this. She had gotten her voice back, as well as her eyesight, and had a new GF as well.
Greymalkin walked away from the Shumi village, talking to his GF's.
I don't understand, wondered Griever, why don't you junction the Phoenix?
'It is not yet time for her to make her appearance,' answered Greymalkin, 'nor you. And she is not mine to junction.'
He felt a rending sensation in his mind, but only for a brief moment. Then it was gone.
"What was that?" he asked.
Odin replied, someone has found Anuba, and junctioned to her.
'Anuba...doesn't she have powers over death and healing?' asked Greymalkin.
And more besides, said Griever.
'Do the Illuminati know of our presence yet?' asked Greymalkin.
Nay master, said Odin, although the Centra Seed spy nets are beginning to circulate tales concerning a 'Nightwarrior.'
Greymalkin nodded, 'let them.'
He trekked down the path to the south, heading towards Balamb. He had more work to do, after all...
Author's Note: Geez, sorry the GF quotes didn't show...have no explanation for that. This was one long chapter! Of course, considering how I haven't updated for so long...sorry people. Alright, interesting stuff is happening. But I am a little disappointed in the lack of slam-bang fight scenes. But I knew from the beginning that this story was going to be more, 'cloak and dagger,' like I said before. Oh well, I hope the audience is enjoying this. I'm having fun, and I am delving more into the characters' lives, rather than just the fights. But don't worry, actions scenes will abound, just expect more of the extraneous stuff than usual. Keep reading and sending feedback, and thanks again. Dragon hunting is next! T-Rexaurs too...
