A Double Alliance


The raging battle continues but no matter how many times the SeeDs countered the enemy's attacks, they never seem to be defeated. Sweat forming on her forehead, Rinoa raised her tired arms, calling upon another spell.

For Timber she thought determinedly. This seems to have boost up her strength a bit more. From the corner of her eyes, she spotted Zell, Selphie, and Quistis all in the same condition and they had been here much longer than she have! Right now, she desperately wanted to rest but this couldn't happen. No one was going to take her place fighting off the Soldiers. She haven't spotted many Garden fighters ever since she made her way into the town. They were probably all injured so everyone is relying on the SeeDs.

Zell delivered another sidekick as his target countered with a powerful blow. The force knocked Zell to the ground, leaving him off guard. His enemy was going to release another attack. Zell knowing that he was too weak to defend himself squeezed his eyes shut and prepared for the worst. To his surprise, no damage had been done. His eyes snapped open to the sound of a ringing gunshot.

Are you ok? a tall figure asked as he held out his hand.

Zell gratefully accepted it and pulled himself up. Yeah I'm alright! Thanks!

No problem, he said as he returned another shot. I was just checking up on you guys. There are still many hurt residents out there.

But what are we suppose to do? They keep coming in and we don't have enough people to ward off their attacks, cried Selphie. The young fighter released a powerful strike from one end of her Strange Vision. She expertly swung the other end, hitting a Galbadian Commander from the back.

And where's Squall? whispered Quistis quietly. We need his help!!

Just as Irvine was about to answer, his eyes widened. RINOA WATCH OUT!!

He was seconds too late. Rinoa turned around just in time as a Galbadian Soldier ran his blade across left right arm, leaving a nasty gash. She released a cry of pain and flung her arm backwards, causing the Shooting Star to break free from the impact. She rolled to her left, right next to the weapon. Irvine shot the Soldier from behind as Quistis and Selphie quickly rushed over to help the injured Sorceress with Zell protecting their unguarded flanks.

Rinoa!! Rin!! Selphie cried as she softly tapped her cheeks.

"I'm ok... she whispered while clutching tightly to her arm, the sticky substance smearing about. Crimson blood soaked through between her fingers. She squeezed her eyes shut, forbidding the threatening tears to fall.

Its no good! We'll have to get you back to the Infirmary! Irvine, take her, ordered Quistis.

objected Rinoa sternly. "I'm ok! She tried her best to ignore the stinging pain but it didn't subside. Her regular breathing has now been reduced to harsh gasps.

Ok!? Rinoa!? We have to stop that wound from bleeding!! argued Zell.

No!! I think I can manage! Trust me!! Besides, there are so much people out there who are in a much worst condition than I am!!

Quistis stood up from her squatting position and sent the tail of her whip flying through the air, protecting the SeeDs. What are we suppose to do? We still need Squall!!

Rinoa nodded tiredly. Her vision was becoming blurry by the minute. Yes! We need Squall!! He'll know what to do!! Irvine, do me a favor! When you get the injured people back to Balamb, head into my dormitory and call Squall! The machine lists his numeber! I don't think we can go on much longer without more help!!

Selphie shook her head. But your wound!! No!! You can't stay here any more Rin!!

"Don't worry. I'll use a cure spell... Rinoa smiled weakly as she concentrated all her strength into healing herself. A bright aura surrounded her. By the time it faded, her gash looked just about the same as before.

It doesn't seem to be working very well!! commented Zell. Our magic stock is running extremely low!! Go back to the Infirmary and Dr. Kadowaki will be able to treat you!! Don't argue!! If you die on us, Squall is going to kill us all!!

No!! You guys need help so I have to stay here!!

But you are in no condition to battle!! Right now, we have to worry about fighting AND watching after you! added Quistis sternly. Besides, none of us are carrying any more Curaga or high healing spells. We used it all up already!!

It's nothing quite big!! said Rinoa as she tried supporting herself to stand. she grinned slightly. "I'm ok! I'll just be back here, backing you guys up with a GF ok?

Everyone seems a little hesitant about her decision but knew there was no way of making her reconsider once her mind was made up. They nodded and resumed their battle position.

Rinoa was glad that their little debate seemed to be withdrawing. It looks like they're going to let me stay here after all. Her brows knit in fury and winced at the flooding agony running throughout her arm but made sure that it was visible to no one. Irvine!! Go!! Go to my dorm!! she ordered sternly.

I got it!! I'll go right now. Do you think you guys can handle this though?

We'll keep trying our best!! Just go!! yelled Selphie. The short brunette lunged forward and swung her nunchaku with all her might. A blast of thunder eliminated a squad. She took this opportunity to rest a bit before moving to the back to help defend her wounded friend.

Quistis brushed away the loose strands of her hair away from her eyes and continued to focus on her objectives. Oh Squall...where are you? Such an irony when the commander of the SeeDs isn't here when we need him the most!!

Everyone!! Stand back, I'll summon Eden!! It's going to cause lethal damage to a part of this town but we have been holding back long enough!! We have no other choice...

Eternal Breath!!

They waited for the chaos to come...

~*~*~*~*~*~

Hey! Can you stand? Irvine asked gently to a little girl who was sprawled on the ground near the entrance.

I-...I...don't think I can...my leg hurts too much! she cried softly. And I want to see my mommy!!

"Don't worry!! Here, I'll help you!! Your mother is probably at Balamb Garden. We're heading there now! Irvine lifted the girl up with ease and then moved towards a young boy who looked no older than ten or eleven. We have to treat that arm of yours. Come on! He scooped him up as well and dashed out into the Timber Plains.

The wind was starting to pick up as cold air rushed through the gunman and the two figures he was holding. The sun was beginning to rise beyond the horizon. Hyne, they've been fighting for so long...hours after hours.

Hang on!! Balamb Garden isn't far!! We're almost there!! Turning left, he took a shortcut through the forest. After running back and forth for Hyne knows how many times, he was more than familiar with the terrains of this area now. He silently prayed to himself that a random monster wouldn't start leaping out causing him to waste more time to fight it. Luckily, he managed to run out of the forest unharmed as well as the two children.

Just a few feet away... he mumbled to himself. Although he was exhausted from running at full speed, there was no time to rest. He had to bring the two to the Dr. and then head back to the dorm to contact Squall and then he had to rush back to help the other SeeDs and save more bystanders.

he gasped tiredly. We're here!! He dashed through the Garden entrance, boots clinking on the marble floor. Swerving right, he made a full speed ahead for the Infirmary.

Dr!! More people!! Irvine carefully released the two kids on to the floor and hungrily gulped down the glass of water that was handed to him.

Irvine!! Take it easy, said Dr. Kadowaki as she patted his back.

Cant!!! Others are in need for help!! It looks REALLY bad!! Rinoa's injured right now.

Just as that name was mentioned, Seifer came storming out of his room. What did you say? the Ex-Knight demanded.

Whoa!! Seifer!? Irvine exclaimed. What the!?!? He looked rather confused.

It's a long story Irvine...you'll hear it later, commented Dr. Kadowaki.

Tell me!! What happened to Rinoa? Seifer snapped impatiently, that arrogant attitude clearly in his voice.

Wait, you tell me first!! You're all better??

Yes...NOW...tell me what happened... Seifer hissed again, almost sounding threatingly this time.

She-she's hurt. A Galbadian soldier ran his blade through her arm...we were too late to prevent it...

Seifer and Dr. Kadowaki exclaimed at the same time.

Hyne!! And all this time I was sitting in here thinking that everything is OK!? I cant believe this!!! He ran back into his room and then appeared a few seconds later with the hilt of the Hyperion clutched tightly in his right hand.

Seifer!! What do you think you're doing? Dr. Kadowaki demanded harshly. You cant go out there!! You just recovered!! We don't want you dying on us again so-

The Ex-Knight was already out the door before she even finished her sentence.

Seifer! SEIFER she shouted down the corridor, calling for him to come back.Oh forget it!! Why do I even bother reasoning with HIM!! Dr. Kadowaki turned her attention back to the gunman. Is she ok? Why didn't you bring her here?

She refused to come!!

I see...stubborn too huh?

Yes...oh yeah, did you get any news from Squall?

No. I don't think so...

Alright then...I better get going. I have to get in contact with Squall and order him to come immediately!! With a wave, Irvine dashed out of the Infirmary too.

Just as he left, he bumped into Matron and Cid outside, tending a few Timber residents.

Matron! Cid!

Matron quickly rushed over to Irvine. "How's it going out there and why on Earth did Seifer just run out? We're suppose to see him to get better. Don't tell me...

Right Matron...it looks like he's going out there to fight......to save...her...this doesn't look good...

"I'm afraid that he indeed had ran off into Timber to battle...you know he wont change his mind right?
Matron gave him a questioning look. But...didn't Dr. Kadowaki say that his condition hadn't improved...how did he... she trailed off at the last words.

Thats what I want to know to, Irvine said thoughtfully. The last person who was with him was Rinoa...I don't know! This is all so confusing! What does this all mean? Perhaps you should go and talk to Dr. Kadowaki about it?

Right...once I get a chance to...I'm swamped right now.

Then I wont hold the two of you up any longer.

Wait!! I want you all to look out for him. I know......there are some of you who still holds a grudge against him, she said, obviously referring to Zell. But...you have to look out for Seifer alright?

"Don't worry Matron, we'll do our best!

Good...now...how is it going out there?

We're managing but right now...we need Squall's help. Any news from him yet? Maybe bringing up Rinoa right now wont be such a good idea...don't need anymore people to worry...

Cid finished bandaging a middle aged woman's arm and stood up. He shook his head. No, he hasn't contacted us. I think its time you guys gave him a call.

I see...well then...I'm on my way!!

Be careful!! Cid yelled down the corridor, his voice vibrating through the walls. And remember to watch out for Seifer!!

Coming to a halt at Rinoa's dormitory, Irvine quickly pushed through the unlock door and scanned for the machine. He finally spotted it on her desk and rushed over. Sure enough, Squall's number was written in a neat handwriting right next to it. He quickly dialed the number and waited for someone to pick up on the other line.

answered a deep voice.

Squall! It's me Irvine!! Where are you? he shouted.

"I'm heading to Timber right now!! Is everything ok?

NO!! It's not!! We really need your help!! We cant hold on much longer and people are getting injured as we speak...besides the people...Rinoa is also hurt.

exclaimed Squall. What happened? Is she all right? Tell me!! he asked worriedly.

We couldn't prevent a Soldier from grazing her arm with a blade...sorry!!

Where is she now?

Uh oh......

Hello? Well!? Where is she? Squall yelled impatiently and held his breath in anticipation. His heart was beating so fast that he thought it might leap out any second. Why wasn't Irvine replying? That must mean something BAD is going on. His icy blue eyes locked deadly on the map coordinates. He was so close to Timber...

She...she's still on the battlefield right now... he trailed off at the last words and waited for Squall's reply.

SHE'S WHAT? What's wrong with you guys!? You're still letting her fight in that condition!? Get her out of there!! Hyne!! Whats wrong with all of YOU?? Is she OK? She didn't get hurt AGAIN did she?!? Did SHE!?

Irvine winced and step back from the machine.

You know how she is!! he shot back. We all told her to head for Infirmary but she INSISTED on staying!! I don't know whats going on with her now!! The others haven't contacted me for any emergency so I'm assuming she's well!! He lowered his voice and continued. Look Squall, we're all concerned about her too ok? We wouldn't have left her there if we were CERTAIN that it wasn't the right thing to do. She managed to stand and show us she could handle it. Besides, she has Eden with her...I'm sure that'll be a great asset to the party.



Just hurry up alright!?

"I'm on it!!

Great...one problem settled...now its time to head back...

~*~*~*~*~*~

After receiving that urgent call, Squall expertly tapped on a few buttons on the control panel of the Ragnarok, enabling it to fly at maximum speed. He picked up the receiver to contact the Esthar fleet.

We have to move FAST so everyone, increase your speed to the MAX!! Timber is in danger!! Is you can't catch up, I'll move on ahead!!

Got it sir!! the voices replied back simultaneously .

Ok calm down...remember...she still has Eden with her. She'll be all right!! The hell am I to judge whether she's alright or not!? Her life could be slowly draining away...

He cursed at himself for leaving her alone. His heart pounded every second at the thought of Rinoa wounded. He had to get to her fast. He should've never left in the first place!!

To hell with the inspections!! he growled. If it weren't for it, I would've reached Timber by now.

The smoke ascending into the air caught his attention. Coming into view was Timber.

This looks bad... he muttered. From above, he spotted Galbadian ships docked near the shores and Soldiers advancing into the town. There was so many of them! More smoke rose as an explosion diffused from the forests at the outskirts of the town.

Why are you doing this Caraway!? Why!? Rinoa is your DAUGHTER for Hyne's sake!!

As the Ragnarok began to take landing, Squall rushed for the exit and jumped off before the ship was fully locked with the ground. He landed smoothly on his feet and ran wildly for the entrance of Timber. Lionheart gripped tightly, he slashed through any obstacles that were in his way. Hyne help the ones that stood between him and his Angel. Nothing was going to prevent him from reaching her. For a moment, a piece of a white article caught his attention up ahead. He squinted at the person clad in it. Blonde hair, gunblade in hand, and who could miss the blazing red fire cross?

SEIFER...



He turned around to find Irvine running up to him.

Glad you made it man!! What was that explosion?

Squall pointed to the forest up ahead. It came from there. I wouldn't worry about it much. I don't think there's anyone in there. They were probably trying to destroy it so they can move in with more ease, he spat. Watch out!! Here they come!!

Squall readied his gunblade and charged forward. He brought it up to an incredible ark and then released it's force. The Galbadian Soldiers fell right before him. The remaining force binded themselves together into a single army and start approaching once more. He was NOT going to let them take another step closer to the town that his friends were fighting for with their lives at stake.

Gunblade limping by his side, he closed his eyes.

The two figures faded as the Dark Dragon descended to obey it's summoner's command. It's eyes flared with rage as it unfolded his gigantic wings. Bahamut released a tremendous roar and began calling forth Mega Flare between his long claws. The dynamic beam plummeted down towards the Earth, annihilating their opponents in a single shot. However, not only did it demolish the Galbadians, an ample amount of the Timber Plains was gone as well. The flare left a huge crater where the forest used to be.

Irvine looked impressively at Squall.

That should've been it...there shouldn't be anymore Galbadians moving in anymore...now, we just have to focus on getting rid of the ones in Timber.

Right! Come on then!! Lets go!!

He eyed the entrance suspiciously. A look of disapproval crossed his face. Irvine, wait...there's something I need to ask you.

Yeah? What is it?

Tell me......is Seifer in there?

Might as well come clean...he's going to find out anyway...

Irvine sighed. Yes, Squall...he is...

Immediately he began to clench his free hand into a fist, with the knuckles threatenly to go through the leather material. He spoke of the only word that came across his mind.

I don't know how to put this but...once you left, Balamb Garden sort of passed by Island Closest To Hell and that's where we found Seifer...

The latter said nothing so Irvine assumed he wanted him to continue on.

Rinoa was on the deck so she spotted him fairly quickly. You must understand that he was wounded at the moment and he could've DIED so Rinoa went out there and saved him I guess. We brought him into the Infirmary hoping to heal him. As much as some of us hated that guy, we still couldn't let him die. Dr. Kadowaki said he showed no signs of recovering and his condition was not getting any better. In fact, it was getting worst. Rinoa stayed with him while the rest of us took a break.

Again, Squall said nothing and fixed his eyes on the ground.

That was when we found out that Timber was under attack so we quickly left Garden. I don't know what happened to Seifer and Rinoa nor do I know how Seifer made such an incredible recovery. I didn't get a chance to ask Dr. Kadowaki about it but you can ask her later. One thing though, Matron told us to look after Seifer...no matter how much it kills you and Zell to do that I just-

He's going after Rinoa...

Squall ran on ahead furiously without letting his friend finish his statement.

Squall!!! Wait!!





Author's Notes- Well I guess that was my longest chapter so far! I was going to leave it as a cliffhanger but then I thought I might as well continue it because I had nothing better to do. Well, it looks like Squall and Seifer are going to encounter each other soon......uh-oh? Thanks so much for reading everyone! Please leave a review!! I'm gonna start working on the next chapter pretty soon!