Subsiding The Rage


His voice was strong and deep, echoing until it slowly faded. Rinoa!? Where are you?

Irvine was likewise confused. This was indeed the last place he had seen them before heading back to the Garden. He remembered the exact spot where they had placed Rinoa. She was leaning up against the stone wall.

Irvine!! Are you sure they were here?

Squall, I'm telling you. I'm positive!

The path beyond them laid in ruins as rubble and other debris scattered across the ground. The remnants of the train platforms was all that had remained. Then where are they then! Suddenly, a sickening thought struck Squall. What if they're buried beneath all this!?

Irvine...you don't think that they're-

the gunman replied back sternly. Of course not! They're strong! I'm sure they had moved to another location by now! Come on, there's no use staying here.

Squall nodded. You're right! Lets go check out that Foxes of the Forest house. Maybe they're in there.

Irvine shot him a questioning look. Foxes of the Forest? Where's that?

Its another rebel group that Rinoa had introduced us to when we first came to Timber. Its right next to Timber Maniacs. His mind drifted slightly back to the time when they an argument at the Broadcasting Station. He was a bit annoyed at the way she acted but thinking back to it now, he shouldn't have been that harsh. He even felt guilty at the moment. He remembered exactly what happened. After their dispute, the broadcasting screen flickered on and he was surprised to find Quistis but even more surprised to have found Seifer taking hostage of the President.

Seifer...

A hand waved in front of his face. Hello? You there?

Sorry, I was just thinking thats all...

You're really worried about her aren't you?

Of course. Lets go. The road seems to be block here so I guess we'll have to backtrack and then find another route to the house.

The two hurried back to there starting point and selected an alternate path that will bring them to their destination.

Over here! Irvine motioned. Squall followed his actions. Jumping over a sturdy bridge like structure formed by large boulders, they made it across to the other side.

It shouldn't be too far from here. Just up those steps, a turn, and we should be there!

A group of three Galbadian Soldiers stopped them midway.

Its the SeeDs!! Attack!! the commander yelled as his squad, as well as the two SeeDs took their battle positions.

The blue transparent blade shimmered brightly, reflecting a deadly glint. Its wielder gripped the black hilt tightly in front of him, commencing at any moment. His partner next to him pulled his gun out of his holster and released a piercing shot. One of the Soldiers leaped forward, his sharp blade ready to strike Squall. The commander moved back a step with ease and defended himself with the Lionheart just in time to fend off the attack. Countering with a powerful blow, the battle was now over.

Lets move on. Be on guard, there's probably more on the way, instructed and led the way to the house.

Heeeyyy!! They're here!! They're here!! Selphie shouted. She waved, directing them to come over.

Is everybody alright? Squall asked in concern. He eyed every single one of them but someone was missing. Where's Rinoa?

We seem to be doing a little better now. There haven't been many signs of the Galbadians, replied Quistis. Oh......we got separated before. Zell brought Rinoa to
the pub and told her to stay there because she was in no condition to fight.

Squall could have sworn he saw Quistis sulk but it was probably nothing.

I thought you guys were fighting at the Train platform. What happened? Irvine questioned. When we go there, the whole place was all barricaded!

It was just too much so Rinoa summoned Eden. Luckily, there was no one there so no one got hurt! Zell explained. After Irvine left, we brought injured people in there. He pointed to the small house next to Timber Maniacs.

And you wanna know something else? Selphie chirped. Seifer was here! I guess we really owe him, he helped us alot.

Squall repeated scornfully. What is he doing here? Somebody please explain whats going on!

We're all confused just like you are. No body really knows what went on because we were all called out here to Timber. Rinoa stayed with Seifer a bit longer so-

Upon seeing Squall's hurt expression, Selphie kicked Zell lightly, signaling him that he had said enough.

Oh...sorry man but-

Its alright. I just want to be with her now.

THERE!! MORE SEEDS!! ATTACK AT ONCE!! A voice boomed through the streets. That got everyone's attention immediately.

Squall go! We can handle this. Go find Rinoa, instructed Zell.

Right! I know you guys are quite low on magic so you can take all my stock.

Selphie let out a deep breath. She turned around and gave a small smile. Thanks. You don't know how much we need them.

Squall closed his eyes for a moment, concentrating on unjunctioning all the magic. Be careful! he warned and began running in the opposite direction.

He was just about to descend down the steps when he heard someone sniffling in back of him. A little girl sat on the floor, her head tucked between her arms. Squall moved over to her and gently nudged her.

Who are you? she trembled. Are you one of them?

No, I'm a SeeD. We're here to stop them.

"I'm scared!! I'm really scared! she wailed.

Her innocence greatly reminded him of Rinoa.

I was scared... I was really, really scared

Better get going

I haven't forgotten your order. Just stay close to me

Just stay close to me.

The girl seemed a bit relaxed hearing those words.

Squall lifted her up with one hand while the other was still gripped tightly on his gunblade. He made his way down hoping he wouldn't have to fight with a child at a risk of getting hurt. No such luck.

Standing outside the pub were indeed more Galbadian Soldiers.

Hey!! Here's another one!!

Squall cursed. He set the girl down near the souvenir stand. "Don't move from your spot alright?

The child nodded and did what she was told. She ducked her head down, not daring to even peek at the fray.

Fire fire fire!!! the commander shrieked. His army obeyed and blindly released a raging hailstorm of wild bullets.

Squall evaded them easily and flipped over to his right. He lost his balance a bit but easily regained it. Rushing forward, he slashed the three vertically with his Lionheart. All three fell before his feet. He went back to the stand to retrieve the girl.

You ok? he asked. Not hurt are you?

No, I'm fine...

Good, then lets go. He picked her up again and barged into the pub. Rinoa!? Rinoa!? he yelled. His voice echoed throughout the empty room. Tables and chairs were overturn. Glass shattered beneath his feet as he walked towards the blood smeared counter.
"Don't kill me!! Don't kill me!! A woman stood up from behind the counter and waved her warms in front of her. Please!! Don't kill me!!

Calm down...I'm not one of them.

Who are you then?

Commander of Balamb Garden. I'm a SeeD.

The bartender looked relieved at his words. Whew! I thought you were one of them trying to come here and ransack the place again.

His heart sank. Ransack? What happened?

Well they came here before to look for SeeDs but then left when they didn't find anyone here. I was scared to death so I hid here all along. Luckily they didn't find me!

Have you seen a girl dressed in blue come by here?

Yes. She was escorted here by this blonde guy with a tattoo on his face. Sorry for the vague descriptions, she apologized.

No, I know who you're talking about. Go on, where is she now?

Well that guy ordered her to stay put but as soon as he left, she barged out through the back door and then afterwards, this guy in this white trench coat also barged through that back door...how weird.

Seifer was here too?

Listen, can you do me a favor. I have to head out there. Watch this girl for me alright and lock the doors. We'll be back here to get you once everything is cleared.



He handed her the child and made his exit at the back door.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Ok, I think this is far enough. I don't think they can catch up with us now! Rinoa released her hand from Seifer's grip and sat down on the stage in the Broadcasting station. Now explain!! Hyne!! How did you get better all of a sudden? She would've greeted him with a hug perhaps but seeking refuge in the studio was not the best place to do so.

He walked over and rest his Hyperion on the stage beside her. What? You're not happy to see me?

No, its not that. It's just when I left you...you were...

I was on the verge of dying huh? You cant get rid of me that easily, he smirked and took a seat next to her.

Rinoa smiled. You still didn't answer me question.

In time you will know...but not now...

I ah...I don't know. I guess it was just a miracle. Maybe those medicine took its effect, he lied. He hated to lie to her but he'll tell her the truth one day...not now. He wasn't even sure of himself.

She pulled up her legs and turned away from the bitter scent of the blood from her arm. You know, you really had me scared back there.

His turned around to look her in the face. You...were scared?

Well of course! We were so close to losing you.

Well I'm sure your friends would've been happy, he spat.

Rinoa hopped off the stage and walked in front of the Ex-Knight, shaking her head. Oh stop it!! They don't hate you Seifer! You just have to open yourself up to them a little more. They...they all forgive you for what you have done. They care for you, they'll always be there for you. Don't you understand? God...I feel like I'm speaking to another Squall.

Hey! Its not like I need their pity alright?

They don't pity you! They want to help you...that is if you let them.

Yeah sure, he snickered.

She felt her voice rising. Oh why do I even bother reasoning with you?? Rinoa turned away from him and walked to the other side, crossing both arms over her chest. Squall learned you know? Even though he learned it the hard way...he still learned that he's not alone and you shouldn't be either.

What are you trying to do?

"I'm trying to piece back your life after everything with Edea...I mean Matron, Ultimecia, Time Compression, your romantic' dream! I feel as if you're shattered right now! If you have died...I wouldn't have been able to do all this. She trailed off at the last sentence.

Seifer picked up his gunblade and scanned the glistening blade. But I have failed...I have failed everything...failed becoming a Sorceress's knight, failed to fulfill my romantic dream...I failed to become a SeeD and I failed you...

You haven't failed me! Rinoa defended.

Oh come on! Remember? We were suppose to liberate Timber along with Watts and Zone and here's your beloved town being attacked by the Galbadians and almost half of it is gone already!!

But you're- I mean...we're fighting now aren't we? Thats the important thing. Just like you have promised, we'll liberate Timber someday! she said happily, her cheerful attitude returning. Take it easy alright?

He found himself smiling at her words. They were so supportive, so forgiving, so alluring as well. Hyne, he wished she was his angel again.

His lighthearted expression suddenly faded to a concerned one. Rin, we have to treat that wound. Come on, I'll get you back to Balamb.

No, I wanna stay out here. Besides, it doesn't hurt that much anymore.

Seifer sighed and ripped off an appropriate amount of cloth from the curtains and walked over to the Sorceress. Yeah yeah...I know there's no way I can make you change your mind. He tied the ends of the cloth together around her arm. She winced a bit.

Sorry, but I have to make it tight.

I know.

He finished. Thats the best I can do right now since you're being stubborn like always!

Well gee, thank you doctor! Rinoa joked.

Both of them cracked up slightly. It felt nice to have a laugh after all the turmoil they have been through. Seifer was the first to regain his composure. Rinoa? Do you love Squall? he asked seriously.

He caught Rinoa being a little off guard. She didn't see that question coming. Well of course.

He didn't know what was happening but he felt his heart twist and it hurt...it really really hurt. Oh...then I'm sorry I ruined your wedding...... he whispered.

An awkward silence followed afterwards. Both were unsure of what to say. Seifer nervously gripped the hilt of the Hyperion while Rinoa drew circles on the ground with her black boots. She stared at the floor as if thinking hard. Suddenly, she looked up into the distance. Do you really love me? she asked softly.

A light blush crossed his face. Seifer again remained silent. Did he? He must've if he barged in like that during her most important day of her life......right?





What am I suppose to say? What can I say? Damn...it doesn't look like I'll be able to get away with this one so easily...

She never rushed him or urged him. Instead, she gave him all the time he needed to think. To think this all out. He was still very confounded after all.

But what do I do if he does love me? Funny, she never really thought about that...

Seifer cleared his throat but no words would come out. Maybe I should just tell her...tell her my feelings...that my feelings for her aren't completely gone...



He was cut off by the sound of footsteps. Immediately, Seifer rushed over to Rinoa's side and grabbed her wrist, pulling the Angel back slightly. With his other arm, he raised his Hyperion in defense.

You think its the Galbadians? whispered Rinoa.

I don't know... he whispered back. But stay on guard!

She nodded and fixed her eyes, waiting for the intruder to arrive. The sound of the footsteps became louder and louder. Suddenly, a shadowy figure appeared in front of them. They barely recognized who it was until he stepped into view. The dim lights in the studio revealed no other than Squall Leonheart.

Rinoa gasped.

His eyes were locked on Seifer. He felt his muscle tense and anger rushing through him at the sight of Seifer holding Rinoa back and his gunblade pointing deadly at him. Besides anger, a pang of an enigmatic feeling hit him quite hard just by the sight of how protective Seifer was over Rinoa. He was treating him as if he was some kind of evil monster trying to harm the Princess. What the hell do you think you're doing? Squall pulled out his own gunblade as well. Is this guy serious?

Seifer gave a low smirk and lowered his weapon as well as releasing his grip on Rinoa. He desperately tried to resist the urge to strike his rival right now. We thought you were one of the Galbadian Soldiers, he said simply. Yeah...I wish you were one so that way, I can kill you right now for what you have done to me.

Guys, please don't fight here. Not now! Squall, I'll explain everything to you once we get back to Garden. Just don't fight here, Rinoa pleaded upon seeing the hatred burning in both men's eyes.

Squall's face softened and rushed over to her, gently lifting her bandaged arm. Rinoa, are you ok? I was so worried after getting that call from Irvine. Why didn't you go back to Garden?

"Don't worry, I'm fine, really!! It doesn't hurt that much. Besides, I wanted to stay and fight for my town and your Eden really helped me out just like you had thought. Thank you... She lightly threw her arms around his neck and embraced him in a tight hug. Squall stroked her lovingly, feeling all his anger melt away with Rinoa in his arms.

"I'm so so sorry about Timber...I know how much this town means to you.

"Don't be Squall...its not your fault.

The commander kissed her cheek softly and pulled her closer to him. I'll make sure the Galbadians will suffer for this. The others have already eliminated all of them. They're just checking to make sure that everything is cleared so this town is safe......for now.

Ahem!! Well I'll just go and wait for you guys outside. Seifer coldly walked out of the Broadcasting station and down the metal steps. He violently pushed open the gate and stepped out into the alleyway.

Damn that Leonheart...

He needed to take his anger out on something so he brought up his gunblade and plunged it into a pile of wreckage laying next to him. Tiny fragments went flying from the explosion and sprawled all around him.

Ah that felt good...if only I could do this to Squall......that'll feel great.

~*~*~*~*~*~

After a long hectic day out in Timber, everyone was more than happy to return to their home-Balamb Garden. Selphie lazily rested her head on Zell's shoulder. The brunette's usual shiny emerald eyes were now dull and drooping.

Sleep...need sleep... she murmured.

Zell yawned. Yeah I think we all do. Sleep and a nice hot shower to wash off this nasty stench.

Matron and Cid walked over to the four SeeDs with a worried look.

Are you all ok? You're not hurt are you? She examined each of them carefully. Cid did the same thing.

We're fine, just all tired and worn, replied Quistis.

Of course you would be but we just want to let you know that Timber is safe right now thanks to all your hard work. Why don't you all rest up now? We can talk about it afterwards when you're all up to it ok? said the Headmaster.

You don't have to tell me twice! exclaimed Zell as he dashed away, heading to the direction of his dormitory.

Running after him, Selphie yelled, Heeyy!! Wait for me, wait for me!!

What about Squall, Rinoa, and Seifer? asked Quistis.

Cid cleared his throat. Ah yes, Dr. Kadowaki was pretty mad that Seifer ran out like that so she's forcing him to rest up in the Infirmary. It looks like Squall and Rinoa have some things to sort out at this moment.

I see. Alright, later then! Well come on Quistis, lets go rest up as well, said Irvine.

You're right.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Wow...Timber looks really bad from up here... whispered Rinoa. Garden was docked near Timber shores with the Ragnarok safely back in its hanger. This made it easier for people to move back and forth. She gazed down at the town from the deck to find half of it completely caved in and destroyed. Chunks of rocks and bricks laid everywhere along with the damaged train tracks.

At least we managed to save alot of the residents. Watts and Zone went and escorted the rest of them out. We asked them to come on board Balamb but they said they wanted to start making a plan on rebuilding Timber.

Rinoa smiled as cool breeze gently whipped her hair. Although her eyes held a glint of sadness, she tried her best to be optimistic. Starting a reconstruction plan was a great idea! However, she boiled with rage on the inside when her thoughts drifted to General Caraway. She'll have to deal with him someday. He was NOT going to get away with this.

You look upset about something, Squall commented absentmindedly.

Its that man... she whispered. I wanna...I wanna go and get things straightened out with him.

Squall grabbed her wrist and whirled her around. No! Rinoa, if you're thinking about going to Deling by yourself to speak with him...I cant allowed that. Its too dangerous!! We don't know whats wrong with him or what he'll do to you.

But we cant just sit here and do nothing, she argued.

I know I know......but we'll get this settled soon. Its best if we don't go near that territory. Promise me you wont go to Deling ok?

Ok...I promise... Her rosy lips curved into a small smile.

Squall still looked a bit doubtful at her words.

"Don't worry!! I wont run off to Deling!! You worry too much, Rinoa laughed.

I know I know...its because I love you too much. Squall returned one of his rare smile. he continued. The grin faded. You know back at the Broadcasting station...what were you and Seifer talking about?

The Sorceress turned away from his face and stared down at her hands. Did he hear their conversation? If that was the case, it wouldn't be wise to lie then...but still...thats a chance she would just have to take. Umm......well we brought me into the studio because he didn't want me to get hurt and in there...we mostly talked about Timber.

Thats it? Only Timber?

Rinoa took a deep breath. Yes...only Timber...which reminds me that I have to tell you this whole confusing story. You should hear it from me.

He nodded and waited for her to speak.

Ok...not long after you left for Esthar, we just happen to spot Seifer on Hell Island. He was attacked by a T-Rexuar and if I didn't help him...he would've been killed so I jumped off this deck . I summoned Eden to save him and as soon as I did, we brought him to the Infirmary. He was conscious at first and he could even speak. Afterwards, he just blacked out and Dr. Kadowaki suddenly said that he wasn't going to make it. I stood with him, hoping maybe that he'll come back to us......and then I was called on to the battlefield. I asked him how he recovered so quickly before and he claimed that the medicine took its effect but I'm gonna have to ask Dr. Kadowaki later...just to see if thats the truth. Thats about all. It killed her lying to Squall so badly but she just couldn't bring herself to tell him the awful truth just yet. She needed time...alot of time.

He placed his black gloved hand on top of Rinoa's pale ones. I see... Squall muttered. He felt a tremendous relief that that was all that had went on but lacked in showing it.

I know this is alot to ask but...

What is it?

Well Seifer was so close to death...I was wondering if you can just give him a break and forgive him for what he has done? I'm sure he wasn't thinking straight...we can settle this some other time but let him stay at Garden...please? This can all be resolved. I know you probably think I'm crazy right now but I really REALLY want everything to work out.

Rin......he loves you, Squall stated in a low voice. He just couldn't take the feeling of having someone taking her away from him.

That...I'm not sure of but I am sure of one thing...

And whats that?

"I'm sure...that I love you Squall... she whispered and planted a light kiss on his cheek. His face immediately began turning into all the possible shades of red. His heart melted at her loving words.

I love you too Rin...you have no idea how much... Maybe I was a little harsh by throwing him out but he DID ruin my wedding...the day I had been planning for nearly forever. However, someone like Seifer had nearly died out there...thats quite sad. Maybe...maybe...I'll drop this for now for her sake. Besides...I have Rinoa and thats all that matters. I'll just let go of the anger for now. We have to much matters at hand. He folded his arm across his chest and released those words which he hope he wouldn't regret. Fine...just as long as he doesn't get in the way of things I guess...

To his surprise, she leaped into his arms and trapped him in a tight hug. Thank you Squall. You're so sweet!

You're welcome......wanna go get your arm treated properly now?

Rinoa looked confused for a second. Oh!! I completely forgot! It doesn't hurt that much. I prefer to get some sleep now...come on! You too!! Go get some rest! We've all spent so much time fighting.

I'd really prefer you go get it properly right now. If we wait, you might get an infection.

I'll be fine! I just really really wanna get some sleep... she murmured and let out a loud yawn.

Fine...lets go get some rest. I'll walk you to your dormitory. He slipped his hand in hers and walked to the exit, opening the white door for both of them. Together, they walked down the silent hallway. Rinoa clutched her necklace, a thing she did quite often. Her heart suddenly skipped a beat as she rediscovered something unusual about it. There were three rings looped in the silver chain. She had totally forgotten that Seifer's ring was still there.

I forgot to give this back to him!

She quickly turned the necklace around, tossing the rings to the back of her neck so that only the string of silver chain is visible in the front.




Author's Notes: Ok, I don't know how I did on this chapter. I felt as if its a bit too long and boring. Tell me how I did! I see that some of you want this to be a Squinoa and others want it to be a Seifnoa...but I don't know!! I'm considering maybe an alternate ending but that means I'm gonna have to have alternate chapters as well...I'll see......maybe I can complete the alternate ending without having posting up alternate chapters? I'll let you know what I'm deciding during my future chapters once I see how this fic is progressing. Thank you all so much for reviewing! Oh yeah and ???, no, I did not get the title from the song called Torn By Two Lovers'. Actually, I've never even heard of that song but they are quite similar aren't they?


Oh yeah, a friend of mine wanted people to vote on her story whether or not it should be a Zell/Selphie fic or a Irvine/Selphie fic. Please send your votes to her review if you have the time. Thanks!
The link:


She was also the one who wrote A Night In The Sushi Bar' with another person. I think some of you have read that fic right?