Wolf: I don't own any FF8 characters. Sorry I haven't updated in awhile. This is the start of the end of "The Daughter Of Seifer Almasy". I should be wrapping it up in two or three more chapters. Also, in the next few days I'll be revamping and changing some things. I changed a few things in " Past, present, and future" so anything new just go back and read it. Also, big chapter ahead. And I mean big. * her and Tobias tense and nothing happens* Wow, this is new. Nothing's happened.
(A/N: I don't own the Gladis joke. It's in the play I'm in. Also a friend submitted this idea.)
* All the sudden a huge guy crashes through the roof in black armor, a black helmet covering his head, a jet pack, and enough weapons to level a country.*
Tobias: -_- You and your big fat mouth Wolf.
Gladis: *terminator voice* My name is Gladis.
Wolf/Tobias: Gladis? Isn't that a girl's name?
Gladis: *whiny voice* SHUT UP! My dumb mom wanted a girl. Anyway, I've come to destroy Wolf and her lackey so I can take over the story!
Tobias: Who's the lackey!? * Wolf and Gladis look at him* HEY!
Wolf: Your supposed to scare us? I mean you are pathetic. Having a lame girl name, black armor for a villain is soooooo old, pathetic guns = wimpy villain, a jetpack!? Who uses jetpacks these days? And that helmet-
Gladis: SHUT UP! I've been told that already black armor is stereotypical! DIE! * fires guns at Wolf and they bounce back at him.* AHHHHH! * Blasts through the ceiling.*
Wolf: That makes two damn holes I have to fix now!
Tobias: What happened!?
Wolf: It's a reflection shield recommended for the daily author and scammers.
Tobias: -_-. Bit of warning people, she made an extra lonnnnnnnnnnnngg chapter this time so good luck.
~*~
Part one: A short time of peace.
It was the late afternoon at the docks that resembled Balamb's harbor. The clouds gently drifted across the sky while the sun beamed down on the small town near the ocean. It was July. Many of the workers were taking today off to be with their families whether it was fishing trips out on the ocean or riding down to the beach an hour away. Most of the quaint shops were closed today as well. Almost like everything that day decided to stop. The sea gently lapped against the docks filling the air with a smell of salt.
The among the only few that were out in the town that day were three teens. Alloran Wolfeyes lay flat on her back holding onto her fishing rod while watching the sky. Beside her were Tal Carter and Casseil Hunter with buckets for their fish. Alloran's patience for fishing was already thinning. They had been at this for at this for five hours and the score was, Tal 2, Casseil 4, and Alloran 0.
" You might want to sit up," Tal suggested watching the waves. " You might get sunburn."
" Oh really?" Alloran asked dryly. " And you speak from experience?"
" No, Amery got a bad sunburn laying down like that, looked like a lobster for a couple of weeks," Tal said with a grin. One of the first things Tal had done when they had arrived was get a proper haircut compared to what she had received from the Galbadians. Her hair was now an inch above her shoulders and she had black highlights put back in there.
Alloran sighed refocusing her thoughts. This had probably been one the only times her and her friends had ever relaxed like this. Not having to worry about their duties or about their rank or instructors. Just a short time of peace for them. Not much, but enough to feel free from things for once.
Alloran had been thinking a lot today since no fish seemed to like her. She was often thinking of Garden. What had happened this past month? What did Quistis think of her now? And above all, what her commander would say if he caught up with her?
They had been there for close to month now. Fisherman's Horizon. It was just her, Tal, Casseil, Leo, Sef, and Flare. Drake said he'd stay with Alloran if he hadn't needed to return to Garden to prove he wasn't dead. No one knew where he or she had headed after their little escapade. The civilians of FH promised to keep their being here secret. They also promised to let them know if any Garden representatives came. Alloran, Tal, and Casseil spent the time training near the land outside FH, helping those in FH with work, just hanging out, and above all fishing, something Alloran was beginning to hate.
" Got another!" Casseil yelled happily pulling in another fish. " I'm the king at fishing!" He exclaimed putting the fish with the rest of his prizes. He is really starting to get on my nerves, Alloran thought. ~ Well, he is beating you AND Tal at something for once. ~ " See, this is how you fish ladies!"
Alloran glanced over at Tal, who also was getting annoyed. They both were thinking Casseil was showing off a little too much. Exchanging glances Tal threw her a mischievous look and Alloran smirked back. Alloran lifted up her foot behind Casseil's back while Tal's hand went right behind him. " Show off!" They both yelled together pushing Casseil into the ocean. Tal and Alloran both smiled and laughed. Pushing herself up on her haunches Alloran looked down at Casseil. Casseil was keeping his head above the water breathing hard.
" Damn the water is freezing!" He yelled at his two friends. " You do know you scared away the fish!"
" It was worth it!" Tal laughed. Casseil grumbled wading over to the docksides in front of Tal. " See? This is what happens when you brag to much."
" Oh really?" Casseil asked putting his elbows up on the docks. Without warning he grabbed onto Tal's ankle and dragged her into the water. Tal hit the water with a big splash.
" Casseil Hunter!" Tal screeched splashing Casseil.
" Well I figured you were enjoying it so much you should get involved," Casseil said grinning. Alloran watched with a smirk on her face watching the two.
" Give me a hand Alloran," Tal grumbled. Still smirking Alloran held out her hand to Tal, which she gripped before Alloran felt herself hit the water. She had trouble keeping herself from sinking due to the heavy gunblade hidden on her. She broke to the surface coughing glaring at the blue eyed teen that had pulled her into the water.
" Tal!" Alloran growled pushing her bangs out of her eyes.
" What?" Tal said innocently. " I figured if we were wet you might as well join us." In Alloran's mind she could hear two beings laugh. (Oh sure, very funny.) * But it's humorous watching you three like this. * - Immature if you ask me. - Bahamut was the only one that didn't laugh. Casseil was laughing with Tal now.
" Alloran, no offense but you look like a drowning rat," Casseil said stifling a laugh.
" You try having a gunblade weighing you down and see how YOU like it," Alloran growled. A second later water hit her face. " Casseil, do that one more time and you WILL regret it."
" Oh really," Casseil asked with a cocky smile splashing her with more water.
" You asked for it," Alloran said smiling. She raised her hand and pointed it the air above Casseil. " Water!" The spell slammed down on Casseil pushing him deeper into the water. A few seconds later he came coughing up water.
" Alloran Wolfeyes!" Casseil yelled.
" What?" Alloran asked in the same innocent tone Tal had used earlier. The three turned their head in the direction of laughing. Further ahead at the docks was a wheat colored hair man with the same sky blue eyes at Tal.
" What are you laughing at Amery!?" Tal demanded.
" I thought you three were SeeD, Garden's elite," Amery said smiling. " And here you are playing in the water."
" They started it!" Casseil growled jerking a thumb at Alloran and Tal.
" You brought it upon yourself," Tal retorted. " If you hadn't been bragging every time you caught a fish we wouldn't have pushed you in!"
" I can't help it if I'm good," Casseil said defensively.
" Trust me Casseil I feel your pain," Amery said walking over too them with a smile plastered on his face. " I grew up with Tal."
" You're a comfort brother dear!" Tal grumbled. " Next time I'll be sure to use you as target practice for my Pinwheel!" Alloran smirked pushing herself onto the docks. Amery bent down and helped Tal out of the water with great ease. Amery worked as a blacksmith in FH and had the day off since it was Sunday. " So why are you down here?" Tal asked with a sigh.
" Mum's going out to Esthar for shopping," Amery said cheerfully wrapping his arm around his drenched sister. " Said she wanted you to go along with her. It'll take two hours to get there ferry another two to get back."
" And WHY does it have to be me?" Tal asked glaring at her brother. " You know mum takes forever."
" Mum's going for supplies and clothes shopping and I suggested you since you have more insight about women's clothes," Amery quickly moved away from Tal as her foot sailed where his leg had been. " Temper, temper," Amery cooed.
" Amery!" Tal scowled. " I'm going to-"
" Tally! Amery!" Yelled a blond haired girl with green eyes. " Mum says to get your butts back home and-" her eyes looked Alloran, Tal and Casseil over. " What happened to you?"
" Long story Kayla," Tal sighed to her younger sister. " Tell mum we'll be back ASAP."
" Kay Tally," Kayla said with a shrug skipping off around the corner.
" Yeah Tal, you'd better get going," Amery said patting Tal on the back. A second later he doubled over and landed on the ground clutching his groin, where Tal had kicked him.
" Tal, don't you think that was harsh," Casseil asked wide-eyed.
" Not really," Tal aid shrugging, until Amery got up growling.
" Now would be a good time to run," Alloran muttered to Tal.
" TAL ANGELA CARTER!" Amery yelled chasing after Tal. Laughing Alloran and Casseil followed after them. Well, even peace had it's own little twists.
~*~
Alloran sighed as Mrs. Carter lectured them. " And I expect you to change out of wet clothes immediately!" Mrs. Carter said sternly.
" Yes mom," Tal grumbled dragging Alloran off to the her room.
" What happened to you three?" Leo asked as he entered with Flare and Sef behind him.
" Don't ask," Alloran and Tal chorused dryly ascending up the stairs.
Alloran and Tal shared a room in the attic. It had a skylight, a small bathroom and two cots. Plants littered the windowsills letting their branches stick out an open window. Dust swirled around as the door opened.
" I am going to kill Amery," Tal growled in a low breath.
" It can't be THAT bad," Alloran said cocking an eyebrow as she tossed her jacket on the ground.
" Want a bet?" Tal responded picking up some clothes from the laundry hamper before disappearing into the washroom. From the washroom she yelled, " just last year it took four hours to finish her shopping. Alloran , could you pass me a tampon?" Alloran dug through Tal's dresser and passed it through under the door.
Alloran had finished changing into a fresh tank top and pants when there was a knocking at the door. " Tal Carter! Hurry up! I want to get the Esthar today," yelled Mrs. Carter impatiently.
" I'm coming!" Tal came out dressed in a white t-shirt with a black vest covering it, and black pants. " Damn Casseil," she grumbled. " My favorite jacket's soaked. See ya in six or more hours Alloran, food's in the fridge and Kayla's over at a friends. You know the drill, if she comes home early take care of her," Tal muttered opening the door and disappeared down the stairs. Alloran couldn't help her curiosity she stood at the top of the stairway just out of Tal and Mrs. Carter's sight.
" Alloran, tsk, tsk, eavesdropping on Tal," said a voice at the other corner.
" Then what are you doing Casseil if not eavesdropping?" Alloran asked.
" I was just passing by!" Casseil hissed defensively.
" Tal what happened to the pink sweater I gave you?" Mrs. Carter asked. Alloran and Casseil both exchanged looks. They remembered it.
" Mom, remember? I took it off when I was training and when I got it back it had been torn up," Tal responded as the door behind them shut.
Alloran remembered the situation quite well. Mrs. Carter had just taken up knitting two years back and needless to say it hadn't turned out very well. So they went to the training and Tal took her sweater off and put it near the carcass of a Gnat and 'accidentally' left it there. When they had gone back to get it, the poor sweater had been torn into pieces.
" New look?" Casseil asked indicating the tang top. " Never seen you wear one before."
" You probably haven't seen me wear one is mainly because your always asleep when I go down to the weight room to do a morning workout," Alloran said punching his shoulder gently. " It's just too hot today for a sweater I guess, even with the windows open."
" I guess," Casseil shrugged. " I'd rather be catching some ZZZs then getting sweaty on a sleep in day."
" Lazy bum," Alloran said with a grin.
" I'm not that lazy!" Casseil said tapping her on the skull. " Me and the guys are heading out to the beach. Want to come?"
" No thanks," Alloran said dryly. " Have you forgotten about Kayla Mr. irresponsible?"
" Oh right," Casseil sighed putting an arm around Alloran. " Then I guess it is a good thing your not going."
" Gee, thanks," Alloran said dryly pushing his arm off her.
" Casseil hurry up!" Flare yelled from downstairs. " The babes aren't going to wait all day!"
" Babes?" Alloran asked suspiciously. Casseil started inching away.
" Well, um, I have to get going BYE!" Casseil said sprinting down the staircase. I guess his experience with Rose didn't teach him anything, Alloran thought frowning as she leaned on the railing. ~ What do expect? Besides, it's not like you care whether he finds a girl he likes. ~ (Fenerir, don't start.)
" Think you'll be okay Alloran?" Leo asked from the bottom of the staircase. " Amery should be back in an hour or two."
" I'll be fine," Alloran sighed. " I am a SeeD after all. I can take care of myself." Leo shrugged.
" See ya then," Leo called disappearing around the corner followed by the door being shut.
Alloran jammed her hands in her pockets and headed back to the room. Looks like everyone's busy today, Alloran thought sitting down on the bed. SeeD? Former SeeD is more like it at the moment. She got up again and looked out the window. They hadn't heard anything of Garden or the Galbadians all month. That's what disturbed Alloran the most. There is a saying ' silence before a storm'. Could this just be leading into something big? Alloran leaned on the windowsill breathing in the summer air. Slowly she closed her eyes and entered the dream world.
Part two: Visions
Alloran's eyes searched her surroundings. Where am I? She thought walking around the place. It scared her almost. There was a unnatural feeling about this place that made Alloran shiver.
It was night, wherever the place was illuminated by the full moon overhead. There were no stars. Around her were many stone buildings that lay in ruin with vines twisting around them. Statues of human and animals alike glimmered in the moonlight making them look alive. Beyond this place was a wide ravine leading to a cavernous drop.
" Welcome my child," said a voice Alloran knew all too well. It was the voice that talked to Alloran in her dreams.
" What do you want this time?" Alloran growled to the air.
" What I always want Alloran," the voice responded. " To aid you." Alloran fists tightened.
" What do expect me to do? I really can't do much!" Alloran snapped. " I can't return to Garden, I'm not as powerful as many others, and my commander will never listen to me!"
" That does not matter," the voice whispered. " What matters is in the upcoming event you need to be at."
" And what IS this event?" Alloran asked.
" The final battle," Alloran's ears perked up. " Your destiny is to unfold very soon. The purpose that you were born for is awaiting you. This place shall bear witness to you."
" How can you be so sure?" Alloran asked. " That I'm meant to do this."
" Trust me young wolf," the voice called faintly fading away each word. Again with the young wolf business, Alloran thought. " Trust yourself. To be triumphant you will have to rely on yourself and your guardians." I don't have any guardians, Alloran thought. " Fate is to be decided soon. Prepare yourself." At that white lights surrounded Alloran and she found herself in place that was white. " You are stronger then you think young wolf, you've been getting stronger and you haven't even noticed it. You ask how I can be sure you are the right person. My answer is I know you are destined to do this. Watch, there is more to come."
Alloran was no longer in the strange realm. She stood on the battlefield of a great battle. Around her SeeD and Galbadians alike crossed swords. Blood dripped onto the ground mixing with the sweat of the warriors. What the Hell!? Alloran thought. A Pinwheel was heading straight for her. Before Alloran could duck it passed right through her and attacked a Galbadian behind her. The sharp device flew back to it's familiar owner, Tal.
" What going on?" Alloran asked. Shocked she saw not far ahead the sorceress Cal with fresh kill at her feet looking up at the sky muttering words.
" It ends here Visser!" Yelled a voice she would have mistaken as her own. It HAD been hers. The figures clashed in front of her. Herself and Visser himself. They ran at each other in full fury as they ran past each other each other tearing into each other's flesh. Alloran's vision of the rivals was replaced with Cal.
" Unleash!" She yelled. A dark void opened above her. Alloran felt like all the happiness, her dreams, everything good in life had been ripped away from her as howls filled the air. Eight creatures more gruesome than the next sprang from the void their features gnarled and ugly. (A/N: Let's play a game, guess which are the eight creatures that serve Ultimecia. The last is Tiamat.)
" Alloran!" That had been aimed at her. Just meters away was the future Ellone with a frantic look on her face. Using all her strength Ellone hurled a glimmering object to Alloran.
" Ellone, what's going on!?" Alloran yelled.
" I can't explain right now! Just" Ellone's words became mute to Alloran. In seconds the dream had faded.
Part three: Tales of a former sorceress knight.
Alloran woke up covered in sweat. Ellone, she thought. What's happening? Alloran had only then realized she held something tightly in her hand. It was a silver ornament that had a moonstone embedded in the metal. Outlining the stone was a full moon. The metal was hot in her hand and seemed to emit darkness. What was Ellone trying to tell me? The same thing as that person? Alloran thought pocketing ornament. Her eyes looked out the window. The sun was starting to fade over the horizon. No way I could have been asleep THAT long, Alloran thought. ~ Rough sleep? ~
Alloran suddenly remembered the place in her dream. She shivered remembering the place that stood in the glow of the full moon. It was like no place she had ever seen or heard of. And that person, it had been the same person that had talked to her those few times.
~ Alloran? ~ Alloran snapped back to reality. * Something's troubling you, what is it? * (Nothing.) - Poor liar. - Alloran growled and sighed. She couldn't hide ANYTHING from her GFs. (Damn, do guys have to know everything that happens to me?) ~*- Yes-*~ They responded at the same time.
Alloran retold everything about the place she had been to in her dream and what the person had said to her. Once and awhile they'd interrupt to ask gravely about the place. (Well, what do you think?) There was a short moment of silence. ~ Eternity. ~ (What?) * The place where the watchers dwell. The place the Gods condemned them. * (Gods? I thought the only God was Hyne.) - Hyne is one of the main Gods but not the most important. Mortals know her either as a Goddess or a legend. -
* It is a tale all Guardian Forces know. Long ago, it was believed there was a place where the Hyne have birth to another race. Eternity. This race were known as the watchers, judges of mortals. They resembled the dead, they themselves were memories of the dead, human and animal alike. Believed to have been the most loyal to Hyne, they built temples from ideas they got from mortals. All was well for centuries, until jealousy took place. Humans were multiplying across the earth and building many things. The watchers became jealous of what freedom and power they possessed. Many times they complained to Hyne or her siblings to give them that power only to be refused. They grew furious and plotted a revolt against the Gods. The revolt ended swiftly. Hyne's elder brother Chaos came and destroyed things made by the watchers. The watchers tried but failed to match the wrath of a God. Hyne arrived to save them from Chaos but at the same time cursed them.
' Watchers, you have betrayed my trust,' Hyne boomed.
' But please great Goddess,' pleaded the watchers. ' We grow weary of hiding in here judging the mortals and yearn for a world like earth. Let us take the humans place and they may be the judges.' Hyne snarled at their remark.
' You were made to stay in the shadows and act as the judges as humans. I will let you live but remember, you belong in the darkness. You shall be sealed into this land. This land, Eternity shall remain dark like the shadows. You will stay here until you prove your loyalty.' And with that the watchers vanished into the land never to see the sunlight again. Legend speaks of them always watching, waiting for their chance. *
(Doesn't seem like a happy tale.) Alloran thought about the place again. Had the watchers been the cause of that feeling. - It is not meant to be. - (So, is it true?) * No one really knows. I cannot tell you if Eternity exists or not. * Alloran sighed. (Thanks for the tale anyway, another thing to think about.)
Alloran heard the door downstairs slam. Maybe I should just go out for some fresh air, it's WAY to hot in here, Alloran thought with a sigh. She picked up her now dry clothes and slipped on her sweater and trench coat. Her fingers gripped onto Windhowler's sheaf and attached it back into place. Her footsteps echoed through the hall as she walked down the staircase.
" Where you going?" Amery asked with a hotdog in hand.
" Out for awhile," Alloran said with a shrug. " If you don't mind looking out for Kayla. It's about 6:30 right?" Amery nodded. " She should be back in ten or so more minutes."
" I'm just staying in with Cade to watch the football game between the Balamb Fish and the Timber Owls," Amery replied naming one of his friends. " We could look out for Kayla, ten gil," he said holding out his hand. Alloran frowned producing a ten-gil coin and tossed it onto the nearby table. As Amery reached for it Alloran held up a hand. Before he could say a word she muttered something.
" Thunder," a tiny spark came out but she held it. Gently she placed her hand over the coin and the bolt flew into it. Amery looked at her then reached for the coin again, " I wouldn't touch it." Amery yelped in pain as sparks flared from the gil. " Manipulation of magic, quite useful," Alloran told him remembering her lessons. Manipulation of magic was useful but difficult to control. Took a lot of concentration and absolutely NO mistakes.
" So?" Amery asked in an annoyed tone.
" I'll remove the spell AFTER I get back to make sure you did your job," Alloran said with a smirk. " So be good."
" Not like I have a choice," Amery replied dryly as he left the hall muttering, " why do SeeD have to be so complicated?" ~ Wasn't that mean? ~ (Just a precaution incase he gets a little too wrapped up in the football game.) Alloran slipped on her boots and slammed the door behind her.
~*~
Seifer Almasy gazed over at the sunset of FH. It would be nighttime soon. The perfect time to leave without being noticed.
" SEIFER?" Fujin asked. They were around a small fire on the road to Esthar eating a small supper. Seifer's eyes turned to his friends. They both were looking at him strangely.
" You haven't eaten much ya know," Raijin said with a frown.
" It's nothing," Seifer lied putting his plate aside. " I'm just not hungry." If they knew his was lying they chose not to say anything. Raijin and Fujin exchanged looks and went back to their meager supper.
His body was there but his mind was somewhere else. Watching the crackling fire memories passed through his mind, mostly those he had forgotten from the GF inside his mind. There were his orphanage days, those had been probably the best. Teasing crybaby Zell, playing pranks on Selphie with Irvine, picking fights with Squall, being scolded by He shook his head.
He was remembering the blond haired women he had left behind more than a month ago. Maybe never to see her again. In his mind, it had been for the best. He had taken away her virginity and caused problems. She probably lost a lot all thanks to him. He had caused problems for everyone.
More memories flashed through his head. These were the bad ones. His childhood, the murder of his mother, the birth of his scar, the sorceress's control, torturing Squall, being forced fight against his friends, sacrificing Rinoa Everything terrible in his life flashed through his eyes. He clenched his teeth determined not to say a word about these memories.
" Seifer? HEY SEIFER!" Raijin yelled in his ear. Seifer growled and pushed Raijin away from him. " Jeez, I was seeing if you were alright ya know!" Seifer sighed.
" Sorry," Seifer said with an apologenic nod.
" PLAN?" Fujin asked rolling her eye.
" There's a chocobo forest somewhere near Esthar," Seifer said clearing his throat. (A/N: Yeah I know there might not be. Never bother checking.) " If we catch three we can travel a bit faster."
" AFFIRMATIVE," Fujin said with a nod.
" How 'bout me and Fuj go?" Raijin suggested. " There's still light and your not liked by the Estharians ya know. We can come back for you later tonight."
Seifer frowned. He didn't like the idea of leaving Raijin and Fujin to wonder around Esthar alone. Creatures from the lunar cry were still dwelling in Esthar. And even worse was the monsters of Esthar that would do anything to them to find out where 'the great' Seifer Almasy was. On the other hand they'd get much worse if he was seen with them. All he could do really was wait, as usual.
" Fine," Seifer grumbled. " I'll keep an eye on the camp."
" Kay, we'll be back soon ya know," Raijin said with a smile. Seifer sighed. Meaning three or four hours of me being bored out of my skull, he thought punching his hand. Nothing ever seems to go my way.
~*~
Alloran kicked a pebble into a small puddle of water as she walked quietly past some houses. Many people were returning from the beach or any other outings. Most of the lights were beginning to turn on in the houses and street lamps began to glow. The air smelled more salty than Balamb docks. The moon hung in the sky while the sun vanished under the clouds.
A ball rolled to her foot. Two kids yelled waving their hands to pass it back. Smiling she picked up the ball and threw it back. Sometimes it was hard to believe the people of FH used to be suspicious of them. Most people in FH moved there to live peaceful lives and disliked war and battles. Though FH agreed to help repair Garden equipment, many still held contempt for soldiers and SeeDs alike. It seemed like unless you were from FH the chances of you being accepted weren't likely. It took awhile but most people in FH were getting used to them. The two kids were suddenly hurried away by their parents who shot cold stares at Alloran. There goes the type of people who still don't trust me, Alloran thought with a sigh.
Jamming her fists in her pockets she kept walking. After awhile she found herself stepping onto an old cement bridge. Tal had once told Alloran this bridge was the only thing that hadn't been blown up during the attack on FH. This bridge had been with FH so long no one used it anymore to get to Esthar like in the old days. Some tales even said that Squall once crossed this bridge to get to Esthar. The gently breeze had stopped and darkness was starting to enshroud FH. She wasn't sure why but Alloran felt compelled to walk down there. Like something was calling for her to venture down that road. ~ Curiosity killed the cat. ~ (But I'm not a cat am I.) ~ True. ~
The bridge had many holes and trash covered the ground. Like many bridges this one had some graffiti sprayed on the sides. By the traces of smashed beer bottles and cigarette butts it was easy to tell this was a site where gangs sometimes gathered. The length of the bridge stretched kilometers onward.
Looking ahead normally you would see the small speck of land, the coast of Esthar even in the dark. Alloran instead saw a steady wavering flame with a dark shape sitting there. From the distance and limited light she couldn't see much except for that. Probably a traveler, Alloran thought. She kept moving forward and then the shadow stood up. Alloran froze. Whoever was ahead was holding something up. She had little time to react as a fast object whizzed through the air and hit the ground just ahead of her. A warning shot. If the person had wanted to they could have hit her making her dead. Well then, Alloran thought drawing Windhowler to eye level. Their not the only ones that can give shots.
~*~
Seifer was bored out of his skull. It seemed like forever since Raijin and Fujin had left. He stared at his gunblade Hyperdragoon lying at his feet. Despite the fact Hyperion had been remodeled into this didn't ease his thoughts. Hyperion or Hyperdragoon it was still the same blade that had been with him during his ordeal as a sorceress knight. It had been used for so many wrongs and had battled those whom he hadn't wanted to fight. His dreams had been shattered and looking at his blade reminded him of his sins. All because of the damn bitch of the future.
He felt it like a bullet. The presence of powerful being. At least being a sorceress knight for awhile had it's advantages. His ability of feeling a human presence had sharpened in a short time. He turned his head to the road behind him. His eyesight for distances had been honed due to his eagle GF.
Ahead was a dark shape with a stone hanging off their neck. The stone gave off a faint blue glow. Standing up Seifer picked up Hyperdragoon. The last thing he needed was someone stumbling onto him. Raising Hyperdragoon to eye level and fired down at the ground, a warning shot. Seconds later the shadow held up an object and a bullet whizzed back in his direction and hit the ground in front of him. A warning shot. Seifer gritted his teeth. So this person wanted to play gunner? Fine.
~*~
Alloran found herself jumping from side to side to avoid bullets. Whoever she was facing had an excellent shot. She had barely anytime to return her opponent's attacks. The worst part about it was she only had two bullets left. She'd have to get in closer if she expected to win. Easier said then done. Her opponent was definitely an excellent gunner. She'd be lucky to get half way there before being killed. Unless " Protect," Alloran whispered feeling the shield cover her. At least now she had a chance.
She ran hard now zig zaging and feinting occasionally to avoid a bullet. Bullets hit her sometimes but protect stopped them from doing any real damage. She still couldn't make out who was ahead of her but she knew he held a gunblade. Alloran then realized he had stopped firing bullets. The man was now holding it in a familiar way, her way. Her thoughts became distracted as she drew closer. There was only one person she knew with the same technique. As he swiftly stepped inward she snapped out of it and moved under his arm. Alloran spun off the ball of her foot and barely blocked the man's assault. They both stopped.
The fire just barely illuminated each other's face but enough to make out the certain features that stood out. Immediately she noticed the scar running down his forehead and his piercing green eyes darted from her cross scar to her left cheek to her sapphire eyes.
" What are you doing here!?" They both said at the same time putting away their gunblades.
" Shouldn't you be at Garden?" Seifer growled. Alloran's fist tightened as she glared at him.
" Why should it matter?" Alloran challenged. " You have nothing to do with Garden anymore. Heck, as I recall you didn't go back there for a long time. And then you-"
" Enough!" Seifer snapped his eyes gleaming angrily. " Since when do you have the right to lecture me!"
" Since now!" Alloran growled back. He was taller, probably stronger, but she wasn't about to let him discourage her. Her eyes and hers were blazing. Realizing this was getting them no where in a calmer tone she said, " it ain't my fault she didn't tell you. Like I said before, I did not know about it."
They glared at each other one final time before Seifer turned away and sat down looking at the fire. Alloran sighed watching him. He looked strange, melancholy almost. Not at all like the tough guy she knew before. He seemed to be a trance almost, he's eyes glassy almost.
" What are you still doing here?" He snapped looking normal again. Alloran snapped back to normal.
" Can I ask you something?" Alloran asked. Seifer looked at her strangely.
" Why?"
" Just because," Alloran said with a shrug sitting down beside him. He looked at her strangely again and shook his head.
" She said the same thing," Seifer admitted throwing another log into the fire. " It was Quistis," he said cutting off what she was about to say.
" Oh," Alloran replied shuffling her feet nervously. ~ Nervous? ~ (No.) But in truth she was. She had never known who her father was and she had so many questions but now she didn't know what to say now that she had met him. " Why did you leave Garden the night of the attack? Why didn't you come back after Ultimecia had been defeated?" Seifer didn't answer. She noticed him clenching his fists. If he heard her or not he chose to ignore the question. Great, she thought rolling her eyes.
" You wouldn't understand," Seifer said suddenly.
" Want a bet?" She said cocking an eyebrow. " I'm eighteen, I'm pretty sure I can keep up." Seifer scowled but she did nothing in return but waited.
" Damn, your way to stubborn," he snarled.
" I really haven't noticed," Alloran shrugged watching him steam. " Funny, I heard you had a hotter temper."
" Excuse me? You do not want to see me when I'm angry," Seifer said calmly regaining his composure. " And I do have a hot temper for certain things, and people," he said shooting her a glare.
" Then I guess I'm not one of those people," Alloran replied coolly. " So, plan on answering my questions?"
" Is it any of your business?" Seifer replied gruffly.
" Not really."
" Meaning you should probably back off," he growled sharply. " I don't like people, especially pests, meddling in my life. Good grief, Alloran thought gripping onto her anger. It figures, he had to this stubborn. " Don't you have anywhere to go!?"
" Nope," Alloran replied. " I think I have enough time to stick around."
" Feh, you'll be in for a long damn wait," was all he said before going silent. Again he reverted to that look gazing in the fire. Crossing her legs she calmly waited looking into the burning embers herself. She could wait for along time but it was being late back to the house was what she was worried about. " Where'd you get that scar?" Alloran flinched looking up into his emerald eyes, he was probably six inches taller. " The one shaped like a cross." Alloran fingers brushed against it remembering the memory of the birth of her scar. He had seen it before and hadn't said a word about it, why now? He hadn't answered her questions why should she answer his? (Think I should tell him?) ~ Leave me out of this. ~ - Your problem. - * Same here. * (Damn you guys. Of all the times to have me fend for myself.) Part of her, the student self wanted to answer but her rebel side was telling her to let him go first. The student won.
" Do you remember the attack three and a half years ago? The one where Galbadia showed their true colors?" She asked memories swarming through her head. Knowing the only GF that bothered doing things like this she practically yelled in her mind. (Fenerir, would you mind NOT giving me a boost?) ~ Sure. ~ (Thank you.) " I guess I idiotically wanted to face the person I hated the most who was my rival."
" Galbadian brat right?" Seifer said with a smirk. Alloran opened her mouth to ask and he responded, " I'm not THAT blind. I could see you two hated each other from the day I arrived."
" Any ways, we fought in the rain, on the balcony of the second floor," Alloran continued. " After awhile he got away on a helicopter with gunners. I got hit by a lot of bullets and when I woke up this was the only scar left. Any other cuts healed except for this one for some reason."
" Oh," was all he said. " Just curious."
" And it's your business asking about the birth of it?" Alloran asked watching him smirk.
" It IS a parent's responsibility to know these things," he told her with a smirk quickly adding, " not that it maters for me. I didn't even raise you." ~ He's right, I had too. ~ * What about me? * ~ I guess you helped. ~
" The what about your scar?" Alloran inquired.
" Why should I?" He asked. " Why should it be any of your business?" Damn it! Alloran thought to angrily herself. I can't see how I ever looked up to him!. " I'm surprised you haven't heard the tales of how the former knight and the commander ended up slicing each other open. It was as simple as that."
" But it isn't, is it?" Alloran asked. " You don't just decide to slice a person's head open."
" Your right," Seifer said with a small chuckle.
" Then why-"
" Isn't it the same with you and what's his name?" Seifer said emotionlessly. " You don't know why you want to tear him to pieces or to crush them? Make yourself feel superior when they stand out?"
" Not really, I've just wanted to beat him, or to be more exact destroy him," Alloran admitted.
" Leonhart was always number one in Trepe's eyes," Seifer continued. " If he was really as great as she thought he would have understood that I would slice him open. "
" That why you never returned?"
" Heh, like they'd want a convict in Garden, I bet they were thanking Hyne I was gone for good," Seifer said ruefully. " Besides, it's not like anyone will forgive 'the man that helped officially screwed up the world and time'."
" Gee, that night you seemed to be getting along well with some people," Alloran said cocking an eyebrow.
" Probably asked by Matron to do it," Seifer growled. " Not like they'd want to be nice after what I did."
" How can you be so sure?" Alloran asked.
" Call it intuition, " he said rolling his eyes. " Besides, would YOU forgive an idiot? A stupid dreamer that tried to kill you and destroy Garden?" Alloran didn't know what to say. " I thought not. "
" Like I said, how can you be so sure?"
" I just can," Seifer snapped his eyes flaring. " How would you understand?"
" I do understand," Alloran said aloud. " I know what it's like knowing by going back you'd only be sent away." Instantly she thought of Ragnarok and disobeying orders. The entire time she knew that they would just cast her out again. Maybe, the situation was the same as with Seifer. Seifer looked at strangely before throwing another log into the hungry flames. The flames leapt upon the log much like wolves leaping onto their prey.
" So then, I guess the rumors are true," Alloran heard Seifer mutter. " I've been hearing a lot since I left Garden."
" Rumors?" Alloran asked.
" You're the one of the few SeeD not at Garden meaning one thing," Seifer's words crept into her mind. Immediately she wondered, did he know? " You were one of the SeeD who stole Ragnarok." Alloran looked a him feeling her stomach drop.
" How did-"
" Oh, so I guess news hasn't reached FH yet," Seifer said with a smirk that was identical to her own. " Or the truth is just being kept from you."
" Tell me," Alloran said almost threateningly.
" If you wish," he shrugged. " About a month ago on the news everywhere I went there was word that seven SeeD vanished around midnight with an Estharian airship known as Ragnarok. Later that day those held captive in Galbadia at the D-District prison and two of the seven appeared in Balamb. According to them they had been dropped off by those who had taken the Ragnarok. And five of the seven just vanished. "
" There are SeeD all over the world," Alloran said dryly. " How do you know I'm not just on some mission?"
" Because no SeeD are on missions at the moment," was his reply. Alloran couldn't believe it. SeeD were mercenaries and always worked. Anything to get money. Heck, Garden NEEDED the missions to pay for Garden's programs with NORG gone.
" Are you serious?" Alloran asked.
" Would I be lying a the moment?" He said dryly. " Wait, don't answer that. Strange things have been happening, which I'm guessing you haven't heard of. SeeD are being sent out on missions and then going missing. I think three teams have gone missing just this week. No one knows why but Leonhart just called a stop to Balamb SeeDs being sent on missions for now." Three teams!? Alloran thought wide eyed. A single SeeD being killed she could understand, normally only once every five months or so but three teams in ONE week!?
" No way," Alloran whispered. " That can't be."
" It is," Seifer said seriously looking around. " Haven't you noticed something? Everything has quieted down and anything bad that happens is discreet. Something big is going to happen."
" What do you mean?"
" Are you completely devoid of what's happening?" Seifer growled. " Look at the sky, it shouldn't be this dark." Alloran gulped. She HAD noticed that but Tal and Casseil told her it was probably nothing. " Galbadians haven't done anything at all. Ever hear of 'silence before a storm'?" Alloran nodded amazed he thought the same thing. " I was with the Galbadians for close to a year. I know something's wrong. Even nature itself is changing for the worst. Monsters are multiplying, days grow shorter, plants are dying, etc."
" Then why haven't you told Garden or anyone?"
" Are you insane!? If Leonhart is so great he can find out himself if something happens!" Alloran frowned balling a fist. I can't believe him, he's acting like a kid! She thought. * He has his reasons. * (Like what?) * You should know. *
" Suppose something big does happen and Garden is hit head on," Alloran said steadily attempting to calm her anger. " What if something happened to Quistis? Doesn't she mean anything to you?" Seifer glared at her with full fury for the first time.
" Quistis can take care of herself," Seifer growled. " It's not like we like each other. Besides, why the hell should I care?" In split seconds Alloran couldn't help herself. Her fist rammed into his jaw throwing him off balance.
" I can't believe you!" She snarled her eyes met his equally furious gaze. " I've heard of pride but you take the cake! If you didn't like Quistis why bother being with her or even thinking of her!? Or even making her have me!?" Alloran didn't have time to react as a gloved fist connected with her face.
" You think I don't have my own reasons!?" Seifer snarled. The wind whirled around the two blowing loose objects around. Their eyes locked with anger and something else. Resentment?
" HEY SEIFER!" Yelled a voice from down the bridge. Their eyes lost each other's gaze and turned to the source of the voice. Raijin and Fujin approached with three chocobo.
" EXPLAIN," Fujin said eyeing Alloran with her lone eye.
" It's nothing important Fuj," Seifer said extremely coldly. Without another word he walked over to a chocobo and climbed up. " Let's just get out of here." Alloran watched angrily as her dear dad and his friends started to ride away into the night.
" Bastard!" Alloran ended up snarling to him. " So does the great knight resort to abandoning someone when they need them? Quistis needed you and still does!" Seifer didn't respond. Alloran watched them vanish into the night without a sound. Damn it, Alloran thought kicking some dirt into the dying fire.
~*~
Part three: Messages.
Squall Leonhart slaved over more paperwork. Hell had reigned at Garden ever since the attack. The repairs were slow due to the missions being cancelled. The Garden budget was tightening and money was getting difficult to get. They were receiving hell from the government in Esthar for losing Ragnarok. And what was worst of all was the fact Leo and the rest of the gang's children seemed to have disappeared from the face of the earth. What could be worse? Squall thought to himself throwing more papers onto a stack of files.
Squall's eyes were beginning to droop but he just shook his head trying to brush off the feeling of sleepiness. It started out small, then rapidly grew. He couldn't shake off the feeling. It was similar to Ellone's power but highly different.
" What's going on!?" He yelled to no one in particular. Lionheart flashed as it was drawn. He tried to move but barely even made it across the room before he stumbled. His fingers were loosening on Lionheart's handle as the profound tiredness started taking effect. Suddenly all Squall wanted to do was sleep.
" What is this," Squall muttering yawning. His vision was going blurry. As is eyes closed darkness toke him. He was conscious of the fact he was no longer holding Lionheart at the sound of distant metal clattering to the ground.
~*~
" Hello Squall," said a familiar delicate female voice. Squall swung round in the direction of the voice only to see the darkness around him.
" It's you," Squall growled recognizing the scene from about eighteen years back.
" I am pleased to hear you remember me," the voice responded.
" What do you want?" Squall demanded clenching a fist.
" Want?" The voice seemed to be laughing before they responded. " The same thing as you, an end to this war."
" Is that really possible?" Squall asked dryly. " We put an end to the sorceress war and that only bought some time. The war continued and SeeD are still needed. We still fight and put an end to people's lives."
" Isn't some time of peace needed though?" The person asked. " As long as humankind exist there will always be battles. After all, humans themselves are chaos in a way. That is why peace is always needed; whether it be a day, years, or centuries. Isn't it all worth the fight to earn a time in which no one has to worry about war?" Squall stopped and thought in silence. " You are still needed, as well as Garden, to play your parts in history. For what I wish you to do may set the future for you and the rest of my children. You know who I mean. The children that live off the earth, the ones with the power of memory and imagination, the ones with the power to destroy or create. My daughters and sons."
" It can't be," Squall whispered in realization. " You can't be her."
~*~
" Raijin could you please stop snoring so loud!" Seifer growled at their camp.
" But Seifer I hardly snore as loud as I used to, ya know," Raijin replied groggily.
" IDIOT," Fujin scowled kicking Raijin extra hard before heading back to her sleeping bag.
" OW!" Raijin howled grabbing onto his foot. Minutes later Raijin and Fujin had closed their eyes and sleeping soundly. Seifer on the other hand lay wide-awake glaring up at the stars. Unable to decide he couldn't sleep because of Raijin's snoring or Alloran's words. Without knowing it he noticed he was rubbing his cheek, the exact place where she had hit him, the exact place Quistis had punched him nineteen years back. It had already started to change a blackish color. So does the great knight resort to abandoning someone when they need them? Quistis needed you and still does!' Damn it! He thought angrily pushing himself up. Why did she have to end up as bad as Quistis!?
He tried to bury the memory but it returned like many of his others. The memory of a girl with an expression Quistis once wore, before she had become as cold as ice. Alloran had learned her limit breaks fast, faster than he had. So had Quistis. And they both had an extremely hard punch. Not that it matters, he thought.
In short minutes he felt drowsiness come upon him. It seemed natural at first, then he noticed it was increasing swiftly. He tried shaking off the drowsiness as he gripped onto his head but to no avail. Seifer's mouth opened to shout to Rajin and Fujin but no words came out. In seconds he hit the ground.
~*~
" Hello Seifer," came a delicate female voice. Seifer's blood froze. He remembered the tone from years ago, the same tone she had on that day.
" Stay back!" Seifer yelled. He wanted to draw Hyperdragoon but somehow knew it wouldn't be any use here. Much like that day.
" Are you afraid?"
" Of course not!" Seifer growled.
" No, you are afraid, afraid I'm her, the women who haunts your dreams," Seifer scowled. How could this person know what was in his mind? Only the sorceress had done that.
" Stay back!" Seifer repeated.
" I have come with news, not to do what the sorceress did."
" Feh, like what?" Seifer asked. " I know what I want to do."
" Wonder the world aimlessly?" The voice inquired. " That isn't what you truly want is it?" Seifer frowned. She looked through any of his lies. " The final battle is going to take place. The final battle between Garden and sorceress Cal."
" So?" Seifer asked. " It's not like it concerns me."
" On the contrary, it does," the voice replied. " You are needed, just as Squall is to complete history."
" Leonhart and the others can defeat the sorceress by themselves like last time," Seifer said dismissively .
" It's not the sorceress whom they will need help with," the female voice echoed into his mind. " It is the beasts that she summons, her most loyal servants."
" They took them down in the future last time they can do it again," Seifer growled.
" Even when many of SeeD are still in bad condition?" The voice asked. " They need you and what power you still hold over the rebels, or former rebels. You know these creatures well and Garden will need you. Quistis and Alloran need you."
" Shut up!" Seifer yelled furiously. " They don't need help from a former lapdog nor would they accept it."
" How can you be so sure?" That question had been Alloran's. " Just think about it, but remember, the time is almost upon us. Choose well."
~*~
Seifer woke up panting. The fire was just dying down and Rajin and Fujin still slept peacefully. Her most loyal servants? Seifer thought. He thoughts were on twenty years back, during his service to Ultimecia.
~*~
" My knight arise " Edea, Ultimecia boomed. Like the servant he was Seifer followed her orders. " Our time draws close, our time of glory. But, before that we must get our hands on Ellone. "
" Ellone?" Seifer wondered aloud. He had heard that name somewhere in the past.
" Shush my brave knight," Edea said eerily. " Once that is done we may compress time. Then you shall meet my most loyal of subjects. Not human. Humans like the Galbadians are too easily led astray. They are creatures of the land beyond. And my most loyal, a Guardian force. One of the most powerful. Tiamat."
" Your most loyal?" Seifer asked feeling envy for the creatures that served her.
" Correct," Edea responded flexing her long fingers. " Would you care to see them? They are the slayers of SeeD." What other thing could Seifer say?
" Yes, my lady," Seifer said with a bow. Edea's eyes seemed to go blank as the spell started.
" Tkces, ikstahkse dl aus eutodxe," Edea said in an unknown language. " Eudx gdhk ltise, btg gdhk cbtyse lfkb. Eudx gdhk ltise, C idbbtqo gdh."(A/N: Arise, creatures of the shadows. Show your faces, may your images form. Show your faces, I command you.)
A dark void swirled as her words were spoken. No light seemed to exist in the darkness of the shadows. Seifer looked in terror as the cries of eight beings filled the dark room. Powerful beings. Their fangs and claws bared as the reached out of the portal. Seifer had to bite the insides of his cheek, anything to stop from screaming as a dragon bit into his leg. Her laughing filled his ears as the portal closed, but his wound was far from being closed.
" They are great beings, never forget that," Edea said with a cruel smile. "They have powers, powers that can eliminate those who oppose me."
~*~
There was a reason why she showed me that, Seifer thought irritably. To show she could destroy me if I turned on her. Does Cal have the ability to call on them too? He rolled up his pant leg revealing a giant scar made by the fangs of her dragon. Tiamat. It feels like she still looms over me, Seifer thought angrily. Almost like her power never left me. Her taint never left even though she died.
~*~
(A/N: This is basically a Wolf made adjustment to the actual scene that took place. New dialogue, new features.)
"Stay away from me!" Seifer ordered. He felt the air around him thicken. Every hair on his body stood up. Fear? Never! Quistis stood a short distance away but it seemed like she was miles away. It looked as though she had stopped breathing and became a statue.
"Such a confused little boy," her words made him think a of a mother chiding a child. Each word was cutting into his pride and soul. " But of course, a little dreamer like yourself has yet to take the final step to your destiny." Seifer scowled. He didn't need to hear this. He wanted to drop Deling and cut her down himself. But He kept his mission in mind, the whole reason he was here. To help Rinoa. But he had to get out of there first. He couldn't go back. Deling's flunkies would be there soon. The sorceress blocked the exit. " Are you going to step forward?" She asked, seeming to have read his mind. " Retreat? You have to decide." Seifer stepped back as she stepped forward.
" Stay back!" He yelled again holding Hyperion closer to Deling's throat.
Beneath her mask she smiled. Seifer was hit in inside his mind. He still kept his grip on Hyperion of Deling. Gasping for air he glared at the women in front of him defiantly. His insides burned like the flames of hell. He wanted to pull his burning eyes away from her but they were mesmerized on the sorceress. What do you want!? Seifer screamed in his mind feeling the searing pain ripple through his body. To help you, her voice was in his mind now. As she spoke her voice began to sound like two women instead of the one that stood in front of him. I need your help though. I can make your dreams come true, my knight. I am the only one that can understand you. He had to do something, he wanted to tear her to shreds. But another part of him refrained from the idea. She was the manipulator of magic, a powerful opponent that could read his every thought. She even knew about his thoughts of knighthood. More fire filled his mind.
" The boy in you is telling you to come," she whispered. Another word that stung his past. 'Heh, your nothing but a weak boy,' his father's words entered his mind making his own fire rage. "The man in you is telling you to back off. You can't make up your mind, you don't know the right answer." 'Heh, your nothing but a weak boy,' the words of his father rang through his head. Seifer growled. Damn it, where's Squall when you need him!? He thought. " You want help don't you? You want to be saved from the predicament.
" Shut up!"
" Don't be afraid to ask for help," as her words bit into his mind, the great pain blooming. "After all, you are only a little boy."
" I am not" Seifer hissed. The feeling of the fire consuming him intensified. He had problems breathing now. " Stop calling me a boy." He didn't mean it to be that weak. It felt like something held his body.
" You don't want to be a boy anymore?" Her words taunted him.
" I am not a boy!" This time it came out right. At the same moment it felt like the fire had consumed him completely. It became difficult to breathe even. She looked at him, still smiling. Of course your not a boy, she whispered into his mind. You are my knight. He screamed in his mind again as the fire now flowed through his veins. Mixing with his blood. You serve, and never disobey me.
~*~
Seifer growled unconscious of the fact his hand had wrapped around the blade of Hyperdragoon. Only when his blood touched the ground did he notice he was bleeding. Why did I ever get messed up in her? Seifer thought. He sat looking at the fire. The memory of the fire that had once filled his veins was all to great. Why am I even thinking about these things? He thought irritably. And, what should I be doing? I've already gotten too mixed up with sorceresses. Do I really want to do this? Above a shooting star raced across the sky. What should I be doing?
~*~
" Alloran, what happened to you!?" Tal asked wide eyed as Alloran entered the house.
" Bar fight?" Casseil asked amused.
" Casseil, for one there are no bars in FH, and secondly I don't drink," Alloran growled heading straight for the washroom.
" So what did happen to you?" Tal asked.
" Nothing, nothing at all," Alloran replied irritably. Oh great, Alloran thought sarcastically rubbing the bruise forming on her right cheek. Another mark, I already have enough scars already. ~ Someone's grumpy. ~ (Who wouldn't be? Besides, I didn't see you, Leviathan, or Bahamut giving me a hand.) — It's a human problem, not ours. —
" Does nothing' involve getting that shiner?" Tal asked frowning.
" It's just not a big deal, okay?" Alloran asked.
" Amery's calling for you," Leo yelled from the doorway. " Said something about removing thunder from his money."
" Tell him to wait!" Alloran growled.
" Someone's grumpy," Casseil muttered to Tal as Alloran turned away.
" I can still hear you," Alloran muttered back. ~ See? I'm not the only one that can see. ~ Alloran yawned pushing back her braid. " What time is it anyway?"
" About 9:00," Casseil said with a shrug. No way I should be this sleepy, Alloran thought with another yawn. Her vision was starting to blur and she was feeling dizzy. Alloran remembered this experience from the train ride to Timber. Faintly she heard Casseil and Tal's calls but she couldn't make their words out. Before she knew what was happening she hit the ground.
~*~
"Alloran?" Asked a voice. " That is your name, right?"
" W, what?" Alloran asked shakily opening her eyes.
" I repeat, are you Alloran Wolfeyes, Seifer's decent," the girl in front of her asked. Her piercing cold blue eyes were fixed on Alloran. The girl was in tattered blue clothes and adorned a black leather jacket with fur on the collar and a two rings on a chain. Blond highlights contrasted with her choppy brown hair.
" Yeah," Alloran said standing up. (Fenerir?) No answer. Great, must be like with Ellone, Alloran thought to herself peering around at her surrounds. It was Ellone's crystal cave, but something was wrong. The place had been torn up. All the crystals that had been in baskets earlier had been shattered to bits. The few Ellone had was torn apart or snapped to pieces.
" I'm Ariel Leonhart, Ellone asked me to fill in for her," Ariel said coldly with the same emotionless face as Squall. " Though, I can't see what she could she see in an Almasy even if you are from another time." Alloran could already feel her dislike for Ariel.
" Where's Ellone?" Alloran asked keeping a clenched fist.
Ariel's eyes flickered sadness for a short moment before reverting back to a cold shell. " She's Not here." Alloran didn't like the tone in Ariel's voice. Ariel saw Alloran's frown and shook her head. " She was caught by Cal's little minions." Alloran's eyes widened.
" What!?"
" I met with her a day ago," Ariel's eyes looked down. " She gave me a letter and explained things that were happening in your time. Also told me not to worry and to come here to speak with you. I didn't understand until now. It's not fair," the girl face kept away from Alloran's gaze. " Just because SeeD opposed the sorceress others pay the price. Those associated with SeeD.
" I sorry to hear that," Alloran muttered.
" It's nothing of your business," Ariel said gruffly. " I just came here to speak with you subconscious, not talk about what's happened."
" But, if this is my subconscious" Alloran started. " You shouldn't be able to see me. Not unless-"
" I'm a sorceress or have special powers?" Ariel said scornfully. " I inherited my grandmothers powers, happy? That gets rid of a question."
" I didn't even ask," Alloran muttered. Scowling Ariel undid the rid ribbon that held the paper shut. Alloran looked over at Ariel, who had an emotionless face on. But Ariel's eyes told their displeasure of Alloran's presence.
" Ellone was the one that arranged this visit," Ariel said suddenly. " I don't have enough power to do this. She just told me to meet you here." Alloran nodded watching Ariel as she put the paper down on a desk for her to read.
" Ellone's important to you," Alloran said quietly. Ariel just looked at her with the same emotionless face.
" Putting it mildly yes," Ariel responded. Alloran peered over the letter reading the rushed writing.
Dear Alloran,
I am sorry I couldn't explain what was happening. If you are reading this then I have been caught and Ariel is in my place. I know you might be worried but please don't worry, just focus on what's ahead. (Alloran was worrying.) The time is coming for the final battle between Garden and sorceress Cal Ultimecia Dragonfang. I have received news from Hyne and talked with my past self. The plan can go underway but it is your choice.
You just need to get close to Cal and we, me and my past self, can combine our powers and send you to a land where you and Cal can fight undisturbed. Eternity. Energy is rich here so you and Cal may fight for days and never grow tired. Once Cal is defeated you will have to get your hands on the moonstone around her neck. DO NOT JUNCTION the Guardian force inside. The charm I gave you is a back up item. Chances are you will have to fight Karu as well. You will have to break the point of his power. I can't tell you how, but I can give you a hint. It's something the sorceress's powers.
The drawback to this plan is in your case. My powers cannot pull you back once your over there. If you wanted to get back it would have to be on your own accord. There are two other realms between Eternity and this world, the realms of the Gods, Flara, and a nameless barren land.
What you saw was a bit of the future, what may be. But, you don't have to do this, Alloran. You can walk away from this and live the rest of your life without having to fight this battle. By accepting this mission you risk never returning to this world. Call my name when you are close to Cal if you accept this mission.
Farewell, Ellone.
" It's about time you left," Ariel growled. Alloran scowled and glared into Ariel's icy eyes. " All I can say is, you had better complete this mission." Ariel's words surprised Alloran. " I know it's too late for our time but us SeeD here are going to continue to fight. I don't want Ellone to suffer like she did when she lost Trance. He was my brother," Ariel's voice faltered. " Almasy, if you fail I will never forgive you."
" It's Wolfeyes, not Almasy," Alloran said nodding her head. In seconds she felt her surrounds melt away from her, returning her to her body.
~*~
Ellone sat in her cell, blood finally dry.
"I thank you Ellone," whispered a female voice.
" Just out of curiosity why are you giving her a choice if you want her to do this?" Ellone asked finally standing up then sitting back down. Her pains hurt both physically and mentally.
" All humans must pick their own paths, Gods can only help them down the road," the voice responded. "Even a God's messenger has to make their choices. Though, I already know what her choice will be."
~*~
"Alloran wake up!" Tal yelled in her ears.
" I'm up," Alloran whispered pushing herself up.
" Hyne this is like on the train," Casseil muttered. " What happened?"
" Just got dizzy, that's all," Alloran replied pushing herself up.
" You're a poor liar," Tal said dryly. " It's just like last time."
" It's nothing," Alloran insisted.
"Alloran!" Hissed Amery from the doorway. " When are you going to remove thunder from my money?" Saved by Amery, Alloran thought standing up and following Amery out the door.
~*~
" Visser," said Cal in her regular toxic tone.
" Yes my lady?" Visser asked bowing his head.
" I want you to start preparing my armies," Cal said her eyes twinkling with cruelty. " The time is close, I have foreseen it. The time of our final battle with Garden. " She looked over at her scrying orb and started muttering her own language again watching the images playing out in the near future. " A messenger will be arriving in ten seconds." Ten seconds later a Galbadian rushed in out of breath.
" My lady Cal," the soldier said making a half bow. " Commander Squall Leonhart of Balamb Garden and Headmistress Pagumi of Trabia Garden request a final battle a week from now. He said if you wanted Griever this would be the time to fight for it. "
" You are dismissed," Cal said dismissively. The soldier bowed and rushed back out of the room. Her eyes turned to Visser with a cruel smile on her face. " There you have it. Your chance to prove yourself worthy. My powers shall be yours for this fight. She will be there, she will try and stop me, and you will kill her. Now go, make me an army to be proud of." Visser bowed and left. Fool, she thought poisonously. Her eyes feel on her scrying orb. The future was turning more and more darker, something blocked her vision of the future. The face of Hyne's messenger had always been grainy and now no image was shown at all. Hyne's messenger has yet to make her appearance, she thought. Her face shall be shown soon, very soon.
~*~
(And that's all.) ~ Not telling anyone else? ~ (If there truly is going to be a battle they'll find out sooner or later.) — But the question here is what you will do. Will you ignore this fight? — Alloran ignored Bahamut's comment. She lay wide-awake gazing up at the ceiling. Tal slept peacefully, been asleep for four hours while Alloran lay awake. Her fingers twirling the silver charm in the air, moonstone gleaming in the moonlight. I may never return, Alloran thought looking over at Tal. Never see Tal, Casseil, Leo, Quistis, Seifer Alloran stopped it there. She hadn't wanted to think of him. Do I really want to do this? What should I be doing? Alloran thought closing her fingers around the charm. Fight or not to fight? Outside the window a shooting star raced across the sky.
~*~
"Alloran, breakfast!" Yelled Tal from downstairs. Groaning Alloran pushed herself up. I don't think I got any sleep, she thought pushing the bangs out of her eyes. " If you don't hurry up Flare's gonna eat all the pancakes!"
" Am not!" Flare retorted. " I'll eat most but not all!" Alloran rushed downstairs to find Leo with a serious look on his face. He motioned for her to follow her into the living room. With a sigh he sat down with his hand pressed against his forehead.
" What's up?" Alloran asked.
" It's happening," Leo responded quietly. " Balamb and Trabia Garden have declared a final battle on sorceress Cal. It's going to be next week in the Cetra region."
" How'd you find out?"
" The neighbors were talking about it," Leo muttered. " They said it was on the radio last night, round 1000 hours."
" They why aren't you telling everyone about it?" Alloran asked crossing her arms.
" I don't know what to do," Leo replied shaking his head. " Dad will be there."
" Oh," was all Alloran could think of. She knew Leo worried about the opinion of his father. Leo didn't even want to be his father like everyone wanted him to be.
" Everyone is probably still angry at me-"
" Us," Alloran corrected.
" Us," Leo growled. " I want to do something, I just know something's going to happen. Something big. But I can't. Even if Garden wins I would have to face my father. He may be the commander but Garden regulations still bind him to punish us. Not to mention he would probably blow his stack. He'll probably expel us from Garden and become my estranged father, not like we're close anyway."
" You know something's going to happen too?" Alloran asked. Leo nodded. " I don't know what to do either." They were both silent and turned their gaze away from each other. Many thoughts were in Alloran's mind. Do I really want to take this risk? Would they be cast out even if they did help? Would they survive?
" What do you think we should do?" Leo asked. Alloran looked at him quizzically.
"Why ask me?" Alloran inquired shifting the weight on her feet nervously. She wouldn't know what to do, why ask her? " Why not ask Flare?"
" Too one sided," Leo said nonchalantly. " He really wouldn't give advice, he'd mostly give orders."
" Sef?" Alloran croaked feeling boxed in.
" Can't keep serious long enough," Leo muttered.
" Then why me?"
" You seem easier to talk to," Leo said with a shrug. " I can trust you to keep things to yourself. I don't know why, but you seem to understand problems more than I do. "
" No I don't."
" Yes you do," Leo insisted. " Better than I do at least."
" I don't know anything and I don't know what to do," Alloran growled. " The only suggestion I can give is to tell everyone else and see what they think."
" I guess that WOULD be the best answer," Leo admitted looking down. " See? You really are better about thinking through these things."
" Am not," Alloran replied shaking her head as his eyes came and reached hers. " I just say what others probably would say."
" You don't give yourself enough credit," Leo said standing up.
" You give me too much credit," Alloran retorted with a glare.
" Hey Leo, Alloran, hurry up!" Yelled Sef. Exchanging glances they nodded and headed toward the kitchen. When they entered Tal caught it immediately.
" What is it?" Tal asked gravely. Casseil, Sef, and Flare looked up knowing something was wrong. Leo and Alloran looked at each other expecting the other to explain.
" Alloran will explain," Leo said with a look that said, 'ladies first.' Alloran let out a small growl with the thought of putting something slimy in Leo's bed sometime.
" Well," Sef asked looking expectantly. Alloran sighed shaking her head. No getting around it. Quietly she repeated every word Leo had said. Watching everyone's expression she knew they were also in indecision.
" And that's all," Alloran finished looking down. - Except for your visions. - (Like they'd believe me.) * Casseil believed you. * Alloran almost scowled but just clenched a fist.
" So what now?" Tal asked, arms crossed. " Do we fight?"
" I don't know," Leo said shaking his head. " But we all need to decide."
" We have to go!" Flare yelled. " Garden needs us!" Alloran wished it was that simple.
" It's not that simple chicken boy," Alloran said ignoring his glare. " We can fight this battle, may even win, but what about the consciences? Garden won't just drop it because we helped."
" Exile, SeeD rank gone, too many possibilities," Tal muttered.
" What to do?" Alloran and Casseil said at the same time. What should I do? Alloran thought remembering the letter. I don't know what the hell to do. Silence again.
" Can we even avoid Garden?" Alloran asked. She didn't know why she was saying this but it felt like the words came out on their own. " At least, if we fight we get it over with. " What the hell am I saying!? Alloran thought. Everyone looked at her. Aw crap, she thought. Swallowing she continued on with what had been started." This is a big fight, greater than ever before if Trabia's getting involved. I just know something big is about to happen," as she said those words Casseil looked at her in deep thought.
" Like you knew before?" Casseil asked. Alloran felt it already and hated it. He suspected another vision.
" Maybe, but I'm sure there are signs of it all around us," Alloran responded. Oh Hyne, why can't I learn to keep my mouth? She thought. " Tal, Casseil, remember how I mentioned a week ago the sky seemed to be getting darker each day?" They nodded. " I'm not the only one, a person I met during my walk noticed it too. Monsters are multiplying, plants are dying, and it's strange the Galbadians haven't done anything. And, I've been hearing things too," Alloran swallowed as she explained how a stranger had told her about Garden SeeD going missing.
" No way!" Flare yelled, his eyes widened like everyone else's. " That has never happened, not in Garden's history!"
" It might be," Sef concluded. " Nothing these days seems to have happened before."
" The main question is, what to do?"
'What to do?' That's a question Alloran had been asking herself. An answer that came to thought was, do what is needed. But, what if I don't want to do it? Alloran had thought often. It didn't feel like a choice to Alloran, more like a mocking crossroad tearing her apart. To everyone else this was a battle that would could mean trouble when it was over. They'd all be in trouble. For Alloran, this battle meant her life.
A sorceress and a GF, how could she contend with that? Rely on her guardians? She never had any guardians growing up. But, it made no sense. If she truly WAS an accident in the time flow, why did she have to be so weak? Squall and Seifer could easily out match her, or even someone else. Why does it feel like I'm boxed in? Alloran thought angrily. I just can't do this!
But if Squall and Seifer could have done something, why hasn't it happened before? Asked a part of her. Griever had been taken by Cal, there was some sort of ritual, whatever it was, and even Squall's grandson had been slain. Would that happen if she didn't do this? ' I know it's too late for our time but us SeeD here are going to continue to fight. I don't want Ellone to suffer like she did when she lost Trance. He was my brother,' Ariel's words were still fresh. ' Almasy, if you fail I will never forgive you.' Why me? Alloran asked herself. Why must it be me? Deep down inside, she knew the answer wasn't going to come to her just because she asked.
" Alloran?" Leo's voice brought her back to reality. " What do you think we should do?"
" What does everyone else want to do?" Alloran asked gazing up at their faces.
" We have to fight!" Flare said punching his fist. " What else can we do?"
" Yeah, but what about what will happen to us afterwards?" Casseil asked.
" I don't think, we can avoid this fight," Alloran said keeping her eyes fixed on everyone else's. " We may not be at Garden or have a future with Garden, but we're still tied there anyway. Like I said before, we can't spend our entire lives trying to hide from Garden," like Seifer, Alloran added silently. " Sooner or later we'll probably look back on this battle. If we don't fight, I have a feeling we'll probably regret it years from now. At least, if we do this now, even if we're banished from Garden, we can get this over with. " The final words she was about to say sealed her fate. " I'm going fight, with or without your help."
It felt relieving for Alloran to say those words. In truth, she felt like a hypocrite. She had been the one that hadn't wanted to go back to Garden but now, here she was, suggesting they fight. I've been running, Alloran thought in realization. I'm no better than Seifer, running from what's going to happen. In fear of the consequences.
" Well?" Tal said with a glare to the others. " She can expect my help. After all, girls have to stick together. Even when boys are to afraid to fight." Casseil and Leo shot her glares.
" Who said I'm afraid!?" Casseil growled. " You know I'd help Alloran as much as you would!" Tal just glared back watching them.
" So?" Tal replied simply. " Did you or any of the other guys speak up? I don't believe hearing anything."
" That's enough Tal," Alloran muttered gripping onto her friend's shoulder.
" If the rest of these guys don't want to fight that's fine by me but I'm sticking by you two if your leaving," Casseil snapped. In a more humorous tone he added, " can't leave two 'innocent' girls to fight on their own."
" Innocent?" Tal and Alloran said at the same time.
" Alloran's as innocent as a ruby dragon," Flare muttered in a low breath.
" I'll fight," Leo said with a nod of his head. With a small smile," I'm not going to let you have all the fun. Well?" He said with a look to Flare and Sef.
" You know you can rely on me," Sef said tipping his hat.
" What is it with me and conformity?" Flare grumbled.
" So if we're going to die, you want to die to?" Sef asked with a humored look. Flare rubbed the back of his head and nodded.
" So it's set then," Leo said with a grin. " We'll start training right after breakfast." Flare and Sef both let out groans while Alloran and Casseil's eyes met. He knows, Alloran thought. Of the vision. ~ Not the details. ~ (I can't say the details, Tal and Casseil would never let me do this then.) * That's because they worry about you. * Alloran sighed wishing that Tal and Casseil shouldn't be worrying so much. - He'll ask sooner or later. - (I'd rather it be later, after this battle.)
~*~
It hadn't been later when Casseil asked. Alloran had finally been able to rest easy after a hard days sparing when someone shook her awake. Instantly she kicked up nailing the person in the stomach. She knew it hadn't been Tal, Tal just yelled at her to get up.
" Hyne, Alloran!" Growled the person in a low voice. " Don't you ever NOT hurt a person when their trying to wake you up!?" Alloran scowled glaring up at the hazel eyes in the dark.
" Can't this wait?" Alloran murmured pushing the covers away. " Leo's making us head off to island closest to hell tomorrow."
" No," Casseil said flatly. " Can we talk? Away from prying ears?" He said indicating to Tal. Why not? Alloran thought with a yawn. Probably won't get back to sleep for awhile.
Outside the room the two settled in the living room. The didn't bother turning on the light since the nearly half moon illuminated each other's features. " So, was it a vision? Of what's going to happen?" Alloran sighed. She knew he was going to ask and had hope it wouldn't be for awhile.
" No," Alloran lied, she couldn't let him or Tal know. " I just have a feeling, that's all nothing more."
" Right," Casseil said skeptically. " Just like with the D-District prison? You never did tell Leo or the others the truth."
" It's no one's business but mine," Alloran said flatly. " Besides, they wouldn't believe me."
" I believed you," Casseil muttered. " Doesn't that count?" Alloran went quiet.
" It's nothing big," Alloran said finally. " Just a battle."
" Hyne Alloran," Casseil growled in a low tone. " Can't you trust me or Tal?"
" It's not like that!" Alloran hissed. " I'd trust you guys with my life!"
" But can you trust us with your secrets?" Casseil said coldly.
" You have your own secrets and I have mine," Alloran said seething with a clenched fist determined not to hammer Casseil in the face. " I don't pry into your life and you don't do the same to me."
" Since when did you get so untrusting?" Casseil asked scornfully.
" Maybe if you didn't keep trying to find out what happens to me I wouldn't," Alloran snapped. " I like to keep things to myself! I make my own choices and you make yours."
" Alloran," Casseil started.
" Zip it," Alloran hissed turning her back to him.
~*~
Casseil watched her retreat shaking his head. He wanted to go after her and try and reason somehow but couldn't. What's happened to us? He thought. Why does it seem lately we get along then turn into enemies? ~ Because she and you aren't really friends, you can't even tell her how you feel. Pathetic. ~ Whispered a mocking demonic voice in his head. (Shut the fuck up you damn demon.)
This had been happening often now when he was alone. Ever since Alloran told him about being able to speak with GFs. Ever since the night of the attack when he was alone Diablos would taunt him with words driving him insane. Carbuncle kept silent while Diablos did all the talking. Lately Diablos had been doing more talking then usual.
~ What's the matter? You don't like me speaking to you? ~ (No, so shut up!) Alloran, he sighed exasperated. Why does it seem like your always trying to make a barrier between us and your true feelings?
~*~
Part 5: Reflections
Reflect on your
Childhood
Your sensations
Your words
Your emotions
(Quote from Ultimecia, final battle, final form.)
Casseil had finished loading his gun with bullets. Tonight's the night, he thought. Garden and Galbadia was set to start battling it out at stroke of eight PM in the Cetra region.
Sef and Leo sat on a bed playing triple triad while Flare shadowboxed. Each one's mind on their own things. Casseil's was on many things.
Flopping down on the bed Casseil twirled the gun around his finger. They had an hour before they had to leave, an hour to prepare. A Guardian Force usually made memories disappear, numbing the pain or joy from the past, that's how it had been for Casseil. Until now.
Closing his eyes he hadn't noticed it but he as thinking on his cadet years at Garden.
~*~
" Aw crap I'm gonna miss the bus!" Yelled a twelve-year-old version of Casseil. Panting he rounded the corner running like Death was chasing him. " Sorry, sorry," he muttered under his breath as he jumped over carts and bumped into pedestrians. Up ahead was the bus, all set to drive away. Relieved Casseil slackened his pace a bit, then was forced to run, FAST! The bus had already started moving at a steady slow pace for it's departure from Balamb. Oh crap! I don't want to take the midnight bus! Casseil thought. "Wait, wait!" He yelled panting at the top of his lungs. Casseil kept running but the bus was to far ahead to catch up with. That was what he had thought at least.
" Grab onto my hand!" Came a voice as the backdoor opened. He hardly paid attention to what his rescuer looked like but leapt off the ground clutching the person's hand. At first glance he thought the person was a boy from the short hair and noticed the 'he' was a 'she'.
" Phew, thanks, I thought I'd have to catch the midnight bus," Casseil panted looking her over.
" Well no one else wanted to help," she said bitterly. Casseil just shook his head casually.
" It's okay, at the orphanage I'm from no one pays attention to me," he said laughing lightly. " I'm Casseil."
" I'm Alloran."
~*~
" You cheated!" Leo yelled in reality. Snapping Casseil back.
It was easier to talk back then, Casseil thought ignoring Leo and Sef's game. Alloran was easier to talk with back then, back then she didn't have so much secrets in our lives. We could have a conversation without thinking we were holding something back. * Don't you mean you thought she was holding something back? * Whispered a small voice in his mind that rarely talked. Carbuncle. (No way!) * Think about it, all those times when it came to secrets it was you that brought them up. Doesn't she deserve to keep things to herself? * Casseil growled pulling the trigger on his gun accidentally. Nothing happened. Glancing down at the gun he was relieved to realize safety was on. Lying back down his mind drifted on the past, and Carbuncle's words.
~*~
" You okay Alloran?" Casseil asked watching Alloran take a seat in the library looking extremely tired.
" Fine, just fine," Alloran replied wryly smiling.
" Tal-"
" It's nothing," Tal said flatly. " Probably just from studying from the exams." Alloran never got tired from studying from exams. They always studied together in the daytime and she never yawned unless it was out of boredom.
" Tal, what's really wrong with her?" Casseil asked in a low whisper as Alloran left to pick up a book from the self.
" Not my place to say," Tal said nonchalantly.
" But-"
" Have you thought maybe Alloran doesn't want to talk about things?" Tal growled.
~*~
Casseil kept flipping the gun up and down. There HAD been those days where Alloran seemed more tired then normal. Since he couldn't talk to Tal about it without being yelled at he pretended n0ot to notice it. After the attack on Garden, when they were fifteen she stopped having that problem unless she stayed up finishing homework, much like the rest of them. But they had, had the same problem then.
'You can't even tell her how you feel, pathetic.' The damn demon had stopped pestering him at least. How did he feel about her!? That was something he wondered himself. Tal was easy, he saw her as a hot-tempered friend, but loyal. Alloran, it wasn't as easy. Most of the time she was his closest friend, someone he could count on, to laugh with, to make and be made fun of. Other times he didn't know what to think of her. They fought sometimes, seemed secretive, and then there was another feeling. The same one that had taken him twice.
His thoughts were on the inauguration party.
~*~
" Ha, ha," he said dryly. " It's not like your going to fall in love."
" Probably," Alloran replied. His eyes strayed from the stars following clouds to her. That night he felt something strange, looking at her like that. She, in a way looked beautiful. She didn't have long flowing hair, or make up, or dressed fancy. Just the way she had looked in the moonlight.
~*~
He HAD wanted to say something about it. That night they had discovered about his orphanage. He tried to forget he had wanted to when he missed the chance because a, Flare interrupted, and, he hadn't been sure what Alloran felt. Why do I feel this way? Casseil thought. Why do I have to think about these things?
" Hey Casseil, Flare," called Leo standing up from his game of Triple Triad. " Ready to go?" Casseil nodded his head throwing himself off the bed. He would have to think about this some other time.
~*~
Tal splashed some water on her face and hair. Tonight's the night, she thought pushing her untied back hair away from her face. One hour to prepare. Beside her was Pinwheel, the blood wiped clean from the weeks training.
Blood. Something she had been spilling since she was fourteen. Ever since the attack on Balamb she, Alloran, and Casseil had been sent off to fight. She remembered letting Pinwheel's trigger go, letting it fly off to assist a first year. From the point she had let Pinwheel fly to kill was when she realized, she would never be clean again. Closing her eyes memories flooded in.
~*~
" Do you think," Tal started. " We have a place there? We've already killed more than one person and if we do make SeeD I expect we'll continue taking more lives. I tell myself it's just a bloody game that has to have a victor but, now it all catches up to me, my guilt. I know we've trained for along time, I know our duty, but I wonder, will we end up like them? Dead on the battlefield, destined never to see people we know and care about alive."
" Tal," Alloran started. " We probably do, if we don't we have plenty of time to earn a place. But we have to take a few lives, as a soldier we have to make a choice, them or us."
~*~
She had always had doubts that there was a place for her in heaven like her parents often said. Like there's a place for me, Tal thought scornfully. Probably anywhere BUT heaven. She knew this battle would probably be her biggest, she'd probably take many lives that day too, more then ever before.
Tal reached over to the side and pulled out a black ribbon. Her hair may have been butchered but old habits died hard. Dad, Tom, Kim, all probably in heaven, Tal thought naming her dead family members. No matter what, mom never exactly was the same again.
~*~
" Mom, it's my choice!" Yelled a fifteen year-old Tal.
" I don't want you going back and that's final!" Mrs. Carter yelled. They had been at it for half an hour.
" You're the one that told dad, ' oh why not dear? It won't be to bad if it's her choice,' Tal spat.
" Don't talk like that Tal Angela Carter!" Mrs. Carter yelled.
" How else do you want me to talk!" Tal yelled. " You think I'm going to say 'sure mommy, I'll stay home while my friends fight!'"
" Enough!" Mrs. Carter screamed. " You are NOT going back to Garden and that's that!"
" No!" Tal yelled balling a fist. " I'm not a little kid! I can make my own decisions! Just because your afraid doesn't mean you have to keep me here!" Tal hardly saw it coming as she felt the cold hit of her mother's hand against her flesh.
" I don't want to hear it!" Mrs. Carter yelled leaving the room. Tal looked down keeping her hand on her cheek. Her mother NEVER hit anyone. EVER.
~*~
Tal woke up out of her daze and quickly started checking her supplies. Mom never did get back to normal, Tal thought. Never did forget our argument. After these years we still argue.
~*~
" Mom I have to fight!" Tal yelled exasperated over yet another fight with her mother. " Why else would we do all this training? Garden needs us!"
" Absolutely out of the question!" Mrs. Carter yelled putting on a stern face.
" I've survived six years of training mom!" Tal snapped angrily glaring up at her mother. " I'm nineteen now, and no matter what I'm going to fight tomorrow whether you like it or not!"
" So your going to run off again like you did three years ago?" Mrs. Carter said placing a dish in the cabinet. "Just leaving without warning?"
" I'm not leaving without warning 'cause I'm telling you now!" Tal growled. " I'm going tomorrow with Alloran and Casseil."
" Fine then," Mrs. Carter snapped glaring at Tal angrily. " Go off and fight your battle! You off and either be killed or kill many men that don't deserve to die!"
" Fine!"
~*~
Why does she always have to get on my case? Tal thought irritable. We get into these fights all the time, why do I even bother coming back here?
" Tal," Alloran said softly knocking at the bathroom door. " It's time." Tal sighed and strapped Pinwheel to her left arm. I'll have to think about this some other time, she thought.
~*~
Alloran loaded Windhowler and slipped the remaining extra bullets she bought from a travelling salesmen. Damn you Seifer, she thought. Making me use up my regular bullets. She had apparently used up all her regular bullets in the gunning contest with Seifer and since none of the FH stores carried weapons or bullets She had to buy some overpriced bullets from a travelling merchant.
Tonight's the night, Alloran thought looking out the window. It seemed like it was nighttime thought it was only before 7:00 PM. Seifer was right, she thought. Days really are getting shorter. (Has this ever happened before?) ~ Not in my existence. ~
Alloran sighed slipping her knives into their correct sheaves. The fight may take her life, her future, any hopes, but she still felt the need to do it. I can still get out of this, Alloran thought. But, I can't. Not now. Why can't I? Because you want to do something, whispered part of her.
Alloran sighed. She wanted to do something but not get killed in the process. I'm going to have to fight this alone, she thought. I've fought my own battles, I can take care of my self, right? It's your own battles that separated you from Tal and Casseil, said the small part of her. Alloran frowned remembering the times she had gone off on her own and ended up in pain. Namely, her latest confrontation with Visser.
Anger swept over her remembering the dark eyed teen that she'd face. He's changed a lot, Alloran thought with a scowl. No longer the brat I used to know, he's more like a dragon with fangs.
~*~
Visser radiated gold ignoring any pains he had been suffering from before. She knew what move he was prepared to do. Renzokuken. He ran at her full speed like a crazed bull. His movements were fast. First he attacked right, then left, over head, across, and repeated these moves over for eight hits. Alloran had managed to keep up with him for the first three but not for the last five. They all hit.
Pain erupted everywhere as Lionheart tore through her flesh. She tried stepping back out of the way but that didn't get her out of the way. Her blood lay crimson on the ground as Visser kept on the onslaught.
Then came the finishing move. Visser stopped slashing apart at her skin and blue flames danced around him. He was about three steps away. He ran dragging Lionheart's blade through the ground scraping through the concrete. Before Alloran could attempt to move his blade had hit her hard, the rough divide attack.
It was Alloran's turn to cough up blood. Renzokuken, a legendary gunblade move. Not many live after they encounter that move. Her right foot slipped. She almost froze. She had let him drive her to the edge. If she fell, it would be game over.
" Looks like it ends here," Visser said smiling weakly. Renzokuken had taken a lot out of him.
" I'm not finished yet!" Alloran hissed. She tried lifting Windhowler up but pain just seemed to burn through her.
The rivals glared at each other again. Neither really had the strength to finish the fight. It was finished for them. A object was thrown between the two. Both their eyes widened after quick realization. It was a grenade. They both struggled to move away but it was too late. A giant blast occurred between them knocking both over in the opposite direction.
~*~
The only thing I can do is get ready for him, she thought. ~ It's his attacks you'll have to worry about, he's not the same kid you fought before. (I know that, that's why I have to be careful.) * Like last time? *
' I don't want to die yet. Not yet. I still have things to do.' Alloran remembered words from her thoughts from last time, only snippets. I really haven't done what I wanted, she thought. Never did find more out about my parents, never felt or saw many new things. She hadn't even gotten a chance to talk Quistis after the incident. Now, she may never get the chance.
Alloran's fingers rested on the hilt of Windhowler, the sheaf lying on the bed. Quickly she drew the blade and cut the air a few times before holding the blade in front of her face. Sapphire eyes looked back at her, the only thing that hadn't changed. Everything's changed, she thought turning the silver blade letting light shine off it. Appearance, thoughts, feelings, nothing seems the same anymore, Alloran thought closing her eyes. Silently she thought of everything that had passed, even memories forgotten swarmed through her mind.
Her early teens, after the scar was born, her short time as a SeeD, every bit of it had been different in many was. Her life seemed easier back then. No having to worry about people knowing her secrets, Fenerir remained known to only her, her feelings and goals were simple, friendship was easier, all she really had to worry about then was exams and tests. I almost wish I could go back, Alloran thought turning the blade again. Away from all this when it wasn't so hard. But then again, I really can't get away. Just as much as me taking back what I said to Casseil.
Casseil She had hit a point she hadn't wanted to hit. They hadn't made up from their argument. Alloran had done her best to avoid him, for more reasons then one. Namely because she didn't want to worry about the feelings she had felt before. The one she had on the balcony, the one she had felt on the mission in Timber. 'Why not?' Fenerir had asked before. She wanted to live without many worries or regrets. Alloran couldn't even make up with him.
Why do I always have to say words without thinking about it? Alloran thought wearily undoing her braid before retying it tighter in place. I don't get it. I can't help it either, I always end up saying the wrong things at the wrong times.
~*~
" Why don't you go back to your master like a good dog!" Those words came to Alloran before she had a chance to know what she had said.
" Maybe I will go back to Rose!" Casseil growled. " At least she doesn't spas out on me when I want to talk!" He retreated clenching the waving cat in his right hand.
" Fine! Go back to your master!" Alloran yelled with anger.
~*~
" I don't pry into your life and you don't do the same to me."
" Since when did you get so untrusting?" Casseil asked scornfully.
" Maybe if you didn't keep trying to find out what happens to me I wouldn't," Alloran snapped. " I like to keep things to myself! I make my own choices and you make yours."
" Alloran," Casseil started.
" Zip it," Alloran hissed turning her back to him.
~*~
Why does this happen to me? Alloran thought gazing at her reflection. Beep, beep! The alarm in Tal's room went off. Only at that point did Alloran realize how long she had been holding Windhowler. Half swearing half sighing she dropped Windhowler on the bed rubbing her arm. I'll have to think about this some other time, she thought slipping Windhowler back in it's sheaf relaxing at the familiar sound of metal against the sheaf. I just have to get this over with before I decide to change my mind. Walking to the bathroom door she said quietly, " Tal, it's time." Tal quietly walked out with Pinwheel securely attached to her arm.
" I'm ready," Tal said shakily with a nod.
" Alloran, Tal, hurry it up," Leo yelled from downstairs. Without a word the two walked out the door and down the staircase. The guys looked at them with stony faces.
" Let's get going," Leo said clearing his throat. " Ragnarok's been repaired and ready for lift off. "
" Tally!" Yelled Kayla, who had appeared from the kitchen. The younger girl clung onto Tal's waist. " How long is it going to be!? Are you coming back!?" Tal sighed rubbing Kayla's golden hair.
" I don't know when I'll be back, it'll depend," Tal sighed gently prying Kayla's little fingers off. " All I know is," Tal glanced over at Alloran who nodded. " I'll come back, I promise."
" Pinky swear?" Kayla asked sniffling.
" Pinky swear," Tal said finally getting Kayla's fingers off her. " Just take care of mom and Amery, kay?" Kayla gave a small nod as the six SeeD opened and closed the door, disappearing from the Carter household.
~*~
Part 6: Beginning of the great battle.
" We'll be there in fifteen minutes," called Sef from the intercom. Alloran leaned against the wall with Tal and Casseil across from her. My hands can't stop shaking, Alloran thought jamming them into her coat pockets. ~ Nervous? ~ (That's an understatement!)
" Hey guys?" Tal said suddenly, they had been quiet the entire ride.
" Yeah," Alloran and Casseil spoke at the same time.
" Do you remember what we said the day FH was destroyed? The oath we made?" Tal asked.
" No, sorry," Alloran murmured. " Probably from the G.Fs." ~ Gee, thanks. ~
" Same here," Casseil replied.
" I just remembered it a second ago," Tal said gripping her arm. " We were on the balcony talking about the sorceress and about FH's destruction we made an oath kinda silly but made sense."
" And what was it?" Alloran asked cocking an eyebrow.
" ' If we all make SeeD well do our best to get revenge on her and tear her to pieces'," Tal said perfectly as if she had just heard it. " Sounds dumb, right?"
" But that's something we may never get to do, the commander can take care of sorceress Cal," Alloran gulped digging her nails into the leather of the glove.
" But no reason we shouldn't try to do it, right Alloran?" Tal asked.
" Yeah," Alloran said weakly. She didn't have the heart to tell them.
" Five minutes! Get ready!" Sef yelled.
~*~
Quistis nervously awaited in line with many other SeeD around her. Save the Queen tightly in her hand awaiting the taste of battle. This is foolish, she thought for the tenth time. We don't have enough SeeD even with Trabia's and ours. Ahead was the enemy, a sea of Galbadians all ready to fight.
" Squall!" Someone yelled to the commander, who was on ledge.
" What is it?" Squall growled keeping his eyes plastered on the distance.
" We're not the only ones here, more are coming," was the reply. The scout continued listening for replies from others. " Sir, there are, um,"
" Spit it out!" Xu growled keeping her gun cocked ready to fire.
Gulping the scout spat out the first part of the news. " Seifer Almasy is heading this way, with over a hundred men at his beck and call, on chocobos sir!" Everyone looked at each other startled. Chocobos used in combat hadn't been for decades. "And that's only part one, Ragnarok's flying this way! Right nearby the sorceress Cal." Squall's eyebrow's snapped together and he went silent. What are they going here!? Quistis thought thinking of two people while others around her whispered to each other in surprise.
" We attack now," Squall said emotionlessly. " They're going to need some help."
~*~
Visser Deling looked up at the dark sky smiling coldly, his fingers wrapped tightly around Lionheart. He never felt so strong before, all because of the dear sorceress. The SeeD were coming, crossing blades with the Galbadians. Worthless fools, Visser thought aloofly watching the action in front of him unfold. They'll all get their chance to die. His dark eyes looked at the sorceress preparing one of her greatest spell. At her feet lay ten bodies, all SeeD, all her enemies. Their blood bleeding into the ground making the spell come forth. All we need is you Wolfeyes and the stage is set, he thought.
Suddenly he felt a familiar presence coming rapidly closer. Overhead a great airship flew down low being attacked at all sides as tanks took their best shot. With a crash landing it took many Galbadian lives, not that it mattered to him. The Ship's gattling guns tore through Visser's forces as he watched unimpressed. Where are you? He thought impatiently as the blond girl he hated and the wimp, both friends of the one he hated and respected. Chocobo cries were heard as fighters rode across the battlefield. Finally his prey exited the airship and began to fight.
~*~
Alloran, Tal and Casseil were thrown from side to side as they entered the war zone. Gripping her side Alloran grabbed onto the railing for dear life as Ragnarok shakily landed. " We're here! Take care of yourselves!" Leo yelled over the intercom. " Try not to get your selves killed and come back alive!" Alloran felt her stomach clench at those words.
" Alloran hurry up!" Casseil yelled, him and Tal were all ready far ahead.
" I'll be right there," I hope, she added finding it hard to move knowing what awaited her. With Windhowler in hand she finally made the move to the hanger door. This is it, she thought.
At the first step out she was greeted by the sounds of war. Blood and bodies littered the ground she stood on, as well as the scent of blood and death that dangled in the air filling her nostrils. Up ahead was her destination, sorceress Cal. Fear gripped Alloran's mind seeing Cal in a trance aware of Cal's power and the mission. Taking the first fearful steps forward she shook her head and started running.
Three soldiers moved in front of her swords drawn while a forth tried circling round to get a clear shot with his rifle. Taking a good guess Alloran figured the gun-wielder wasn't going to shoot if she were in melee with his comrades with the unclear shot. Praying to Hyne the blond haired SeeD dove into the range of the sword-wielders. The first was on her left, second on her right, and third center of her. The first and the second one were striking downward on either sides. She hang there at the last second before ducking low and weaving under the arm of the second soldier and let them hit. They both hit the ground dead. The rear soldier hadn't seen it coming as the SeeD swiftly ran beside him and let Windhowler cleave cleanly through his neck while letting a fire spell charge in her left hand. The gunner had started his own spell but Alloran had discharged hers first.
The next obstacle between her and Cal was a group of soldiers. Alloran spun round slicing across the chest after ducking an assault killing off the first. Throwing Windhowler over her shoulder she blocked vertically and spun knocking the blade away then ran past him dragging her silver blade through the stomach. Spinning on the ball of her foot she quickly thrust Windhowler at the third one's head.
Only meters away screams met her ears. A blue blade slashed through two SeeD almost too fast for her eyes to track. They hit the ground dead while their weapons clattered to the ground. In the shadows lay their killer blood fresh from his kill staining the blue blade.
" Hello Wolfeyes," the killer said coolly. Their eyes met, her sapphire versus his black.
" Deling," she hissed coldly. It was like the battle around them wasn't even happening. Almost like their own world where this fight was necessary. She took the time to notice the straight cut on his right cheek. So he didn't make it out unscathed, she thought. " I bet your grandfather is pleased, helping a sorceress, the type of person that led to his demise. "
" He was a weak fool that believed he could control the sorceress," Visser growled. "I will serve as her knight and bring the end of Garden."
Alloran took a step closer. " We'll see about that," Alloran growled. " You won't be able to do much when your dead. "
Visser spat on the ground to show his opinion of her words. " Your still a bitch that doesn't know her place in the world. Now, should we get on with the killing then? I believe you have a trip scheduled to the funeral home."
" I thought you'd never ask."
Without a word more they rushed at each other spinning and attacking every open chance only to be blocked. They were even, they wanted each other's death, they were rivals. It was a pattern of blocks, spins, feints, thrusts, all a dance of blades where only one could walk away.
Lionheart swung upwards and Windhowler went to meet it. Through the space Visser grinned coldly. Alloran hadn't seen it till the last second when Visser jabbed a knife at her with his left hand right for her heart. The rest came instinctively. Flicking her right hand a knife fell and she aimed it downwards. Alloran and Visser breathed hard determined not to utter a word of pain. Both their knives had been driven straight through each other's arm. Jumping back from each other they kept their eyes on each other's.
" Impressive," Visser said smiling coldly. " But that was a waste of time in your case." Alloran's eyes widened as she took notice to the cut in Visser's arm. Steadily his left arm was healing all by itself. " One of the many advantages about obeying the sorceress," Visser said smugly. Alloran winced from the pain as blood spilled out on both sides. Reaching in her pocket she pulled out the vial for high potion and applied it.
Before either of their arms had healed they began again. Lionheart came overhead in a cleave stroke only to be met by Windhowler. Alloran bent her knees as they screamed in protest from the power Visser put into that strike, she had absorbed most of the strike but didn't fall. Using the force she'd absorbed she sprung up knocking backward but not before he gripped onto her shoulder dragging her down with him.
They both tumbled on the ground struggling to keep on top of the other. Both had long since let go of their gunblades as they thrashed at each other kicking and punching each other. Finally Visser got the upper hand and pinned Alloran to the ground. Grinning in a sick manner he with drew his knife and plunged it down toward her face. Once again instinct took over. Her leg had been behind him. At the moment and sent the knife down her right leg shot up knocking him forward and caused him to miss his point.
Windhowler and Lionheart lay opposed against each other pointing in opposite directions. The two rivals had both drawn their knives and were taking stabs at each other. As they continued their fight their reflections played on the bright blades showing the blade dancers. As they drew near they both made the risk and jumped for their gunblades. Alloran lunged forward ducking her head as her fingers wrapped around the hilt and rolled back onto her feet. Opposite of her was the president's son with Lionheart in hand.
" Well Wolfeyes," Visser taunted. " Think you can make this go on any longer?"
" Wrong Visser," Alloran said quietly. I have to end this now, she thought feeling her emotions to tear through him rise. Cal would be finished her spell soon. Holding up Windhowler she yelled, " it ends here Visser!"
Her and Visser raced past each other. Blades drawn holding them out ready to slash each other's sides. Immediately memory poured into Alloran's mind. This had been exactly what had happened in the vision. Her eyes widened as what had happened in the vision started to take place. Their gunblades bit into each other's cheek. Their backs turned to each other they both ran their index finger down each other's wound. The cuts were in the exact places their scars were. Visser's cut had run perfectly across her horizontal cut of her scar and Alloran's had hit the exact place her knife had before.
Their next move was unadtisappated move. They both glared at each other. Blood dribbling from their cuts. It was time to end this. " Aura!" They both yelled. They ran at each other full speed. Alloran felt his blade dig into her shoulder as she dragged Windhowler through the dirt and pushed him into the air. Demon slice. Spininng repeatatively she swung Windhowler into him while he attempted to hit her. She was too close for him to get a clear hit. Pulling the trigger several times she unloaded pain. Falling back away from each other the effects of Aura wore off.
" Fuck you Wolfeyes!" Visser growled angrily. His cuts were healing fast but he had sastined more damage than her. " That does it!" Lightning crackled from above Cal. Visser's angered look changed smug. " It's over for you and Garden now."
" Unleash!" Cal screamed.
Dark energies around her turned crimson red matching the blood of the dead SeeD. A dark void opened overhead like before but it was more frightening now. The fighting ceased as all eyes were focused on the void as inhumane noises were heard. Any happiness, dreams, pleasures, they were snatched away replaced with darkness. Fear filled Alloran's mind as eight creatures more ferocious than the next. Chaos erupted as the beings attacked right and left, even at the Galbadians. Screams soon filled the air along with someone very close to her, Visser. A fireball from the dragon hit dead on burying Visser into the ground.
The path to Cal was now open, Cal herself was hunched over in exhaustion as beads of sweat dripped from her face. Now's the chance, Alloran thought running over bodies that littered the ground. She was only ten meters away. When light broke through the clouds and covered her and Cal. Ellone, Alloran thought. Clouds swirled around as the piercing light broke through. Cal was disappearing into the light yelling as she floated in the sky but Alloran was still there.
" Alloran!" Yelled Tal and Casseil running toward her.
Alloran felt sadness and regret take her. She didn't want to leave knowing she may never see them again. I don't have to do this, she thought. I can just stay here and battle it out. Looking at their faces she felt her decision grow harder. Blinking she sheaved Windhowler and shook her head regretfully. No, she thought as a tear slipped down her face. This is the way it was meant to be, whether I like it or not. I, can't escape. Not from this. This is one fight I have to fight alone.
" I'm sorry," Alloran whispered as they neared feeling herself lifting into the sky, into the whiteness. " Ellone, do it!" Their cries were faint now. As she felt herself disappearing her thoughts trickled by.
Just wait, just survive. Fight this battle guys, fight and survive.
I have to do this and you have to do your duty.
I'll, come back. I'll come back alive and Cal will be gone.
I promise.
~*~
Wolf: Holy crap, my longest chapter. *Her fingers are burning and she puts them in a huuuuuuuuuge tub of ice only to have the ice melt in 1.42 seconds flat.* Thank god I get to take a break.
Tobias: You still have to write the shout outs.
Wolf: Damn you Tobias! You had to remind me!
~*~
ethereal-tenshi: Yeah, I guess it was bad for her but I had to come up with something and I read in a book something like that and I like the idea, sad as it was.
Emrelle Elendal: Well, looks like SOMEONE is happy Rose died. *slowly backs away* Another Rikku fan, right?
Blueflamerose: Done.
Sorceress Fujin: Er, is this enough?
Dark Hope: Done.
Verdanii: Glad to see you liked it. I may do more two chapters at a time depending on the situation or if I want to leave people on cruel cliff hangers.
ethereal-tenshi: *blushes* Thank you. I'm glad to see your hooked. I've read "secret alias" and it's looking great.
MiNi SoRcErEsS: Tobias says something but I can't type it for this fic. I don't think you'll get bored, just let's say many other things. Your welcome and I really like your fic.
Dark Angels: * gives you handkerchief* Thank you.
WildKnight: *growles* I AM NOT A SHRIMP! The chapters done, but there's still more to right and for that comment I may take longer!
Kikoken: Thanks, though I'm not sure I was begging *shrugs* oh well. Yeah, I'm going to get to work on italicizing since I didn't learn how till a long time.
edenblack18: I could tell you what happens next but I'm mean and don't want to spoil the nice things ahead.
tobias : *snaps fingers* Drat, stuck with Tobias again! but *starts plotting evil deeds.*
~*~
Wolf: Ow, ow, ow, my fingers! This is what I get for writers cramp!
Tobias: *smiling* I told you that you make top long chapters! *gets knocked out*
Wolf: Ugh, it's a bad sign when you can't even kill your lackey. Anyways, I was thinking of writing a prequel for the story and maybe slimly a sequel. The prequel of course would be on Quistis and Seifer and the sequel not saying since it would spoil the ending of this story. Anyone care to say whether they want to see either or both put that in your reviews. Remember, keep reading and reviewing.
