Chapter Eleven: The Enduring Crime
But the bravest man amongst us is afraid of himself. The mutilation of the savage has its tragic survival in the self-denial that mars our lives. We are punished for our refusals. Every impulse that we strive to strangle broods in the mind and poisons us. The body sins once, and has done with its sin, for action is a mode of purification. Nothing remains then but the recollection of a pleasure, or the luxury of a regret. The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it. Resist it, and your soul grows sick with longing for the things it has forbidden to itself, with desire for what its monstrous laws have made monstrous and unlawful. It has been said that the great events of the world take place in the brain. It is in the brain and the brain only, that the great sins of the world take place also.
-Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray, 1891
Rikku sat down on the ground in her flowing attire as she watched a graceful creature dash though the murmuring forest. The sleeves on her dressphere were longer than her arms and the ends started off as a soft cherry red that led into a gentle summer yellow. Purple thread made zig-zag patterns through the colors on her sleeves; looking at the swaying blades of grass, she released a content sigh. The top half of her attire was a feathery olive green with flashing white and red stitches running up to her half-exposed chest. Moving downward was a sunset orange skirt that brushed the ground and is connected to the top half of the attire. The stunning orange faded into a golden color with sea-blue steaks outlining the sides and front. There on the bottom half were three large 'X' shaped straps that seemed to hold the whole thing together.
Running a hand through her hair, she looked up and saw she lost track of the graceful creature of the forest. Muttering a curse, she got up and turned in all direction in hope of seeing a turf of chestnut hair. Starting to get worried, she cupped her hands around her mouth and called out in a ringing voice, "Ghiki!" The blonde Al Bhed became silent as she waited for the slightest hint of sound. Placing a hand on her head she groaned in discomfort.
The feeling of the wind brushing against her face, made her look downward to spot a grinning monkey. Its lean body was now hunched on all fours as the hair above its paws were a snowy white compared to the warm chestnut hair surrounding it. Its skinny white tail, which was dashed with purple stripes, was curled around its legs like a snake. It seemed the monkey was wearing an eggplant colored headband with smooth clumps of snowy hair. Two feathers drooped slightly on top of the headband that was a comforting yellow with sky-blue streaks. Beneath its neck was another eggplant-colored attire that appeared to look like a bib but, it seemed to be connected to the creature's chest permanently.
"Ghiki, you scared me. Be careful not to get so far away from me," Rikku scolded playfully as she wagged a lone finger at the monkey. Lately Rikku found herself dreadfully lonely, seeing as she was being watched by her father's men and being whispered about in public. Which lead to Baralai being unable to visit her due to the enormous amounts of meetings and requests from the Al Bheds about the 'kissing incident' and the eager media that waited on his doorstep. So to stop this horrible feeling, she often changed into her Trainer dressphere so she could play with her animal friend, Ghiki.
The monkey just laughed in its high-pitched voice as it ran around Rikku on all four. Rikku laughed along and clapped her hands together in delight as she watched the mammal climb on a branch and swing to and fro. Ghiki suddenly became quiet and dropped to the ground; quickly dashing to Rikku, he grasped on her clothes in sudden fear. Rikku followed the monkey's gaze and saw a muscular man with a cocky grin plastered on his face.
"Back here I see…and with…the monkey," Gippal grinned at first but turned into a sour expression when he spotted the devil it's self by Rikku. So many bad memories of previous experiences in the past week…it was hell set loose in the form of an innocent looking creature. You can say it all started when he was supposed to have 'lunch' with Rikku to 'catch up.' So much for 'catching up' as he recalled how he attempted to run his hand down her back but a certain someone bit his hand. That little son of an ape…
Rikku didn't notice the change of his tone or facial expressions; she was just excited to see a friendly face instead of the normal scowl from Spira. Bounding up to him, she gave him a friendly hug as she felt his arms wrap around her small waist. "Good to see ya, Gippal. Let's head back to my place and I'll make some tea. Come on Ghiki!" she smiled at him as she pulled back and motioned for the monkey to follow them.
They walked in a comfortable silence as they entered Rikku's spacious home. Gippal stared at the portrait on the wall of Home…it was beautiful. He would give up anything to have Home back together…well he would give up anything except his dazzling looks. Rubbing his head in a nervous gesture, he made himself at home on one of her comfy couches. Gippal's emerald eye drank in every curve of Rikku's body as he watched her get water into a teapot.
The devil, of course, purposely blocked Gippal's view by sitting on the arm rest. Gippal narrowed his eye and growled softly for only it to hear, "Working for 'Lai, eh? Well we will just see about that…why don't you tell him that he deserves to be locked up in a closet." How mature Gippal…who would of thought of a closet? Gippal thought to himself as he furrowed his brows, this monkey was clever…it was somehow tricking him into acting stupid. "Why would I say a closet anyway?" he mumbled. He was about to strangle the beast when Rikku came toward him with a warm smile on her gorgeous face and two cups of steaming tea. That was fast…stupid monkey…all its fault. Placing them on the coffee table, she felt herself become slightly dazed when Gippal strong but yet comforting cologne filled her senses. Placing a bit ofspace between the two, she sat down and enjoyed the comfort of the couch.
As Rikku looked out the window to her right, Gippal shoved the monkey off the arm rest. Before the damn devil could cry out in disapproval, Gippal spoke over the cry, "Did you hear anything about Baralai lately?" Rikku turned to face the concerned Al Bhed whose gloved hand rested on her knee. She bit her lip and stared at the gloved hand instead of Gippal's lone eye.
"Not really…just the usual," she replied in a sorrowful tone. Does he realize how much pain I go through without his presence or voice? I want to see him…I would give up everything I stand for to just seem him once more. Just this once… They won't let me in Bevelle anymore…I'm just a disgrace… Gippal inwardly grinned at this statement, her body told him that she actually heard something but it was just negative feedback. Perfect…
"How do you feel about this all happening?" he asked cautiously, aware that he might be prodding a sensitive subject. He leaned against the cushions on his back, giving her a relaxed and laid-back look. Rikku looked at him as she felt herself becoming numb, but she shoved that sensation away like a crumpled piece of paper.
"What do you mean? I mean… what Baralai is doing is for the well-being of us and for Spira," Rikku mumbled as she felt Gippal scoot closer to her; his hand still rested on her knee lightly. She knew what he meant, but she felt like acting stupid for a moment. He wants to know if I miss him…well I do, isn't it obvious?
"But don't you miss him?"
"Of course I miss him…I miss him so much."
"He should be with you…" Gippal whispered as his lone eye gazed at her pained expressions. His words seemed to sink into her like a heavy weight to anchor a ship. Rikku felt his hand on her knee give her a reassuring squeeze to comfort her. Her lips formed a thin line as she thought the whole situation through her head.
Rikku just snorted and laughed nervously, "Come on, Gippal. Baralai is doing what is important for the both of us." Gippal frowned slightly but wasn't beaten yet…he had one more comment that could turn the tables. Taking in the sweet air that smelt of thyme and lavender, he suddenly realized they were coming from Rikku. Something about those scents sent him into a world of bliss and temptation…and all he had to do was just move a bit closer…
"Aren't you important too?" Gippal asked softly as he moved closer to the Al Bhed. The sides of their thighs were pressed together and Rikku could feel his hot breath warm her neck and cheek. Rikku began to stammer out 'yes' and 'well you see…he's busy,' why do I feel so flustered! AHHH! He touched my back! Why is he touching my back I – hmm feels nice.
"Rikku…I think you are important. I want you to know that, so that when you are feeling angry or sad or whatever…call me. I want to experience your obstacles with you…to be by your side to help you move forward in life," he whispered in a husky and gruff voice. His other hand traveled upward toward her thigh as he continued to whisper comforting words into her ear. For hours he had been practicing the exact words and phrases to use, so far so good.
"E fyhd du cruf oui dryd E femm ymfyoc pa po ouin ceta. E vyemat du muja yht bnudald oui frah fa fana ouihk. E fyc y vuum...yht syopa E ys cdemm huf. Pid E maynhat y vaf drehkc ujan dra oaync, 'Oui lyh'd ypyhtuh dra uhac oui muja ajah ev oui yna dnybbat eh y tyng ruma.' E's rana vun oui...pid yna oui femmehk du yllabd po ramb?" he finally finished as his hand successfully rested on her upper thigh. The sound of a shrill scream filled the air as a streak of chestnut danced through Gippal's eyes. (1)
Ghiki lunged at Gippal from the front and began to pound it's small fists on the Al Bhed's chest. Rikku muttered an apology, still stunned by Gippal's words and actions, as she picked up the monkey and motioned for the creature to go upstairs. "Crazy piece of shit," Gippal whispered to the air as he felt Rikku hover above him.
"Gippal…I'm glad that you are changing into the man I always wanted," Rikku started off, not noticing the gleam of victory in Gippal's eye. "But I already found the man I wanted…and that is Baralai. You are just three years too late…" she finished softly as she collapsed on the couch with a sigh.
Three years too late? Man…'Lai was right, I'm always late. Gippal scratched his head and replied defensively, "I was saying this as a friend…not as a lover." Smooth…alright, let's see her bite that one. Rikku opened her mouth to snap back in pure rage but, her mouth closed and only produced a soundless 'Oh.' Gippal inwardly wore a smug and triumphant grin; once again the Great Gippal has survived from the lion's den. I deserve a medal…or maybe a kiss.
"I…I'm sorry Gippal, I didn't been to accuse you of well…you know. I'm just stressed with the fact that I am now looked down upon from my people…our people. It's not that bad…actually a lot of people are glad of this. They keep on talking about the 'joining of two races.' In a way it reminds me of – never mind," she sighed softly, allowing Gippal to sit by her and place an arm around her shoulders.
"Are you sure that is the only thing that is troubling you?" he asked quietly, his green eye drinking and soaking in the image of her collarbone. Fucking monkey, I was so close…when Rikku's mine I will skin that bastard alive. Rikku rested her head on his shoulder, her gaze on the kitchen sink that dripped out small droplets of water. Memories are just memories…is that what this is? Just memories… nothing more? Rikku replayed that thought over her head and could feel tears threatening to break through.
"I just wish he could somehow visit me…I really miss him. Sometimes I feel that he is avoiding me…" she whispered out hoarsely as tears slowly spilled out in silence. Rikku didn't realize that the last statement was now Gippal's advantage to winning back what was stolen by a certain praetor. Pulling her into a hug, he allowed her to cry on his chest.
"Shh, it's going to be alright, eh? You shouldn't be crying…you break all of our hearts when you cry. Just remember that if you need someone to comfort you…I'll be there," he whispered to her ear as he felt her hands snake around his torso. Rikku released her grip on him after a few moments and drew back and noticed the time on the clock. It was nearly evening and they must have been talking for hours. We didn't even touch are tea...what a waste of water.
"Is it that late?" Gippal sighed as he stood up slowly to gaze at the clock. The Al Bhed wiped the tears on Rikku's cheek and lightly kissed her forehead. "Geez I'm late again…figures. Well if you see 'Lai tell him I said 'yo.'" Gippal continued as he made his way to the door. Opening the wooden door, he allowed the cool breeze to enter and caress his smooth face. "Be careful Rikku…I don't want to see you get hurt. I will always be by your side…just remember that," he spoke in a serious tone as he closed the door behind him. Rikku gapped as she heard him call her 'Rikku' not 'Cid's girl'; listening for Gippal's footsteps to fade away, she called her animal friend back down. He kissed me…well my forehead. Eww! That blonde idiot! Then if I'm so angry, why do I feel so happy? Ugh!
"Sometimes when I've got a lot on my mind, it just helps to go 'Aaaaaaaa!'" she told herself as she screamed out the last part of the sentence. Filling slightly better, she touched her forehead and shivered slightly.
The intelligent creature climbed up beside her on the crimson-colored couch. "What do you think? Do you think he's right? I just find it strange that he is suddenly caring about me, you know? I guess he still worries over his 'Cid's girl' which is nice…I guess," she spoke directly to Ghiki as she played with one of her braids. "I just don't understand…I know! Let's take a walk, we can clear out are minds and also buy some fruits on our way," Rikku grinned as she dashed toward the door with a chattering animal on her heels.
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"Gosh it's already dark! Ghiki get inside already….you do not bite the old man," Rikku scolded as she watched him attempt to bite the tired man on the small boat. Hearing Rikku's voice made the grinning animal dash back to Rikku. Entering her home, she noticed that there was a single candle lit on the table. "Huh?" she blinked as she kicked the door closed with her foot.
Placing the bag of fresh fruit on the kitchen counter, she noticed how the candle produced an eerie glow in the dark room. Her emerald eyes scanned the area for her companion, but the chattering monkey was no where to be found. A cold sensation ran through her back as she changed into her thief dressphere. "It takes a thief to fight a thief," she mumbled as she noticed another candle was on the stairs.
Biting her lip until it began to shriek in pain, she walked quietly up the stairs. The stairs groaned loudly, making the air shake at such a loud noise. Rikku winced at each step, trying to step lightly and quickly. After her noisy climb, she noticed the room was pitch black. Shifting uncomfortably, she glanced around the room for any type of signs…but it was just too dark.
Edging closer to her bed, she heard the sound of a soft and content sigh. Her brows furrowed in question as she took two steps closer. A hand covered her mouth, followed by an arm wrapping around her waist from behind. "Rikku." a voice purred in her ear. Rikku relaxed and soon sank into a warm embrace as she felt soft hands make circles on her chest. Is that you, Baralai? It must be…
"I thought you wouldn't come back…." she whispered softly as she received feather-like brushes on her collarbone. Rikku gave out a short gasp as she felt hands claw at her skirt.
The warm voice just continued to purr in her ear, "Rikku…I will always be by your side..." Rikku's eyes widened in shock as she heard those words, this can't be Baralai…no. The only one who said that to me today was…Gippal.
A/N: Poor Rikku...what else can I say? For the 'hits' on this story...I am utterly impressed as always by you readers. 1203 hits...wow. Going back to the chapter, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed writing it. The next chapter is going to be...how should I say it? It's going to have a more tensed mood at first but soon going into a more relzed setting. I really can't give away more...but I want it to have a lighter tone...you'll see. I'm already writing a rough draft as you read this...pretty niffty, eh?
(1) E fyhd du cruf oui dryd E femm ymfyoc pa po ouin ceta. E vyemat du muja yht bnudald oui frah fa fana ouihk. E fyc y vuum...yht syopa E ys cdemm huf. Pid E maynhat y vaf drehkc ujan dra oaync, 'Oui lyh'd ypyhtuh dra uhac oui muja ajah ev oui yna dnybbat eh y tyng ruma.' E's rana vun oui...pid yna oui femmehk du yllabd po ramb? I want to show you that I will always be by your side. I failed to love and protect you when we were young. I was a fool...and maybe I am still now. But I learned a few things over the years, 'You can't abandon the ones you love even if you are trapped in a dark hole.' I'm here for you...but are you willing to accept my help?