A/n: Well here it is. The epilogue. I sat down one day and tried to think of a nice ending for all this. I had all these great ideas of what I could do. Then I realized something. It was starting to sound more and more like the final act of PGSM. (Cookies to anyone who can tell me what PGSM is.) But oh well. Not everything will be the same. After all, this is Auron and Rikku. Gin
A/n2: This seemed to write itself, however, it became extremely long. I know it has a lot happening, but it was either a long one (almost 30 pages) or I post an epilogue in parts. Not what I really wanted to do. Hope that doesn't discourage you from reading though!
Disclaimer: Gin owns no rights to Final Fantasy X or PGSM.
--
Rikku stood in the center square of Besaid waiting for Auron. They had agreed to meet together that afternoon for some things that needed to be discussed.
Two years had passed since the events of Bevelle and Seymour. Rikku was now twenty, Auron thirty. A lot had happened in that time. Tidus had left right away to go back to Zanarkand and Guadosalam. He had things he needed to settle back home, then to make sure he knew for sure what really happened to his parents. He found them floating together peacefully in the farplane.
Yuna had gone with him for support, and they came back together with her being the new owner of a ring on her finger. Everyone was so happy for them. And a wedding was held only months later.
Once Auron had found out about the engagement, he right away insisted that Rikku would need her own place. She couldn't stay with the couple any longer. So he and several other men of the village got together to build it. (Rikku had to admit she enjoyed watching a shirtless Auron work. The other men noticed it as well, and would gently tease the man, but he would shake it off with a smirk and continue working.)
Lulu walked out of her hut and waved to Rikku as she waited. With a smile, Rikku returned it. It was amazing at how much the mage had changed. Her and Wakka were now the proud parents of a little baby boy. About eight months old. He had the red hair of his father, and red-brown eyes. A nice mix between his two parents.
Rikku sighed as she looked around for Auron. He was supposed to have been here by now! She crossed her arms and stomped her foot in frustration. "And I thought it was only woman who were late all the time." She spouted.
"Only when it involves dressing up." She did not expect a reply and jumped into the air and spun at the same time.
"Auron!" She scolded. A hand covered her chest as she tried to breath normally again. "Don't do that to me!"
"My apologies. Are we ready?" He held an arm out for her to take. Readily Rikku did so. "So where should we start first?" Auron asked as they began walking.
"Well, you know I need a dress. Plus we need to let everyone know. Think Kimahri will come down from Gagazet to join us?"
"Oh I think he will." Auron chuckled. He led them in front of a new eatery that had just opened up on the island. It may not have been much, but Besaid was starting to catch up with the rest of the world. "Ladies first." He said as he held open the door.
Rikku giggled at how chivalrous he could be, but allowed him to hold the door. The walked in together and found a seat next to the window. Before continuing the discussion they had outside, a server came over and took their order.
"So, we left off with you needing a dress. What did you have in mind?" Auron picked up.
"I'm not sure." Rikku confessed. "It has to be white. Obviously."
"Obviously."
"Hey, are you teasing me?"
"No, I would never do such a thing." Auron deadpanned.
With a scowl, Rikku went on. "How about moon lilies? They are in season, right?"
"As far as I know." Auron answered and took a sip of his water. "What about food? Don't you think we ought to provide for our guests?"
Rikku laughed as she had forgotten all about that part. They sat there for the next hour planning. Just what was it they were planning? Why it was none other then a wedding. Their wedding in fact.
Auron had waited until he had finished with the construction of her home before asking. When he showed it to her, Rikku gazed around and wondered why it was so big if it was just going to be her living there. It was then that he had knelt down and pulled a ring from his pocket. Naturally she had said yes. Of course if was not with words, he had taken the kiss she gave him as an affirmative. That was a year ago.
--
Rikku lay on her bed staring at the ring on her finger. It was hard to believe, but in just two short weeks she would be married. And to Auron of all people. The man she had thought to be untouchable for so long, yet here she was. The only one he allowed to get close. It was a young woman's dream come true.
Everything was ready. Well almost. Together they planned to go to Luca and pick out a dress for her to wear. Yuna and Lulu had both mentioned that the selection they had was by far better then Besaid. So with a little persuasion (and a little puppy dog eyes) Rikku managed to convince Auron to take her. She couldn't wait. It was going to be so exciting. The only time she had been to a city was when Seymour took her to Bevelle. And even then she was only allowed around the palace grounds.
With a happy sigh, she rolled over and went to sleep.
--
A woman sighed as she entered the village that night. "It's small, but I suppose it will do. Come on boys, I'm tired and need to rest."
"Yes, ma'am." The followed after her stumbling with carrying all the bags.
"And don't drop anything again, or I'll have your head." She warned.
They didn't stop until they reached the inn. As the woman walked in she was spotted by the the proprietor.
"Is there anything I can help you with ma'am?"
"Yes dear, you can. I'll need two rooms for the night if you have them."
"You're in luck. I have exactly two left. With the wedding going on, rooms have filled up quickly. Are you here for that as well?"
'Wedding?' The woman thought. 'What wedding?' "Well, of course I am. I wouldn't be here otherwise, would I?"
"Of course." The proprietor chuckled. "Very well. Here you go, and have a nice night." He handed over two keys and the woman took them quickly.
She would find all about this wedding eventually.
Making her way back to her assigned room she thought about who it could be that people would make this much fuss over. The blitzball player from Zanarkand got married about a year ago, so it couldn't be him. Who else on this island was known enough for the extravagance?
She unlocked her door and slipped into the room not even bothering to see if her boys were following. It was a long trip and she was tired.
"Where would you like this stuff?" One of them asked. He was a stout man, but not fat. He had the eyes of a Bevellian though he could have easily been from anywhere. His voice broke the woman from her thoughts.
She sighed in aggravation. "Well I don't know! I don't care, just put them over there!" She pointed over to a corner of the room away from the door. She collapsed on the bed right afterwards. "Now, if you don't mind, I would like to get some rest. Make sure you lock the door on your way out. Oh, and here's the key to your room." She quickly flung the key to his waiting hands.
"Goodnight, ma'am. Raze will be over in the morning for you."
"Fine, fine. Just leave me." She closed her eyes and waited until she heard the door close behind him before deciding to change.
--
The next morning Rikku practically bounced out of her home to greet the day. She had always been an early riser, but now she had an even better reason to be up. Her father was going to be there that day and meet the group. Together they were going to hold the pre-wedding shower. Parties were always a good thing in the young woman's eyes.
She stopped short when she saw an unfamiliar face coming out of the inn. He was a thin man, average build, brown hair. And he appeared to be confused.
Cocking her head, Rikku went over to see if maybe she could help. "Excuse me. You look lost. Anything I can help you with?"
He startled for a second before regaining his bearings. "Um, sure. Can you tell me where I can find some..." He stuttered for a moment and she had to lean closer to hear what he said. "Kaleya wants me to find her some 'woman things' and I have no idea where to find that kind of stuff." He whispered the last part as if embarrassed.
Rikku giggled, she liked this man. He was so open. "Looking for your wife then?" She asked. His face paled at the implication, so she quickly took it back. "Guess not. Well, okay, no matter. I'll help you. Tell Rikku what you need!" She raised a fist in the air and swayed her hips back and forth.
"Raze." He said quickly. At her look of confusion he elaborated. "My name. I am Raze. And I assume you are Rikku?"
"You got it." She smiled again as she led him over to one of the shops. "Besaid really doesn't have a lot, but we have what you need."
Little did either of them know, but another person stood nearby watching them. He saw what appeared to be Rikku flirting with another man. Auron was not going to like this. But why would Rikku be leaning close to this other man if she didn't like him? With a dreadful feeling in the pit of his stomach, he took off.
--
"I know you don't like it, but I know what I saw ya."
"Wakka, please. For your sake, you had better make sure you know exactly. Rikku would not dare attempt what you are accusing her of." Auron stood in Kimahri's hut pacing. Since the Ronso was off on Gagazet, he was not needing the home for the time being. Auron had taken over the care of it in his absence.
"I know that, ya. But you should have seen them for yourself." Wakka's normally tan features were pale from the information he gave. An angry Auron was not good.
With a growl Auron turned to the man. Wakka managed to keep the squeak from slipping out. "Fine. I will do just that. But not a word to anyone else until I know for sure."
"Hey, no problem." Wakka waved his hands in a surrender motion in front of him as color returned to his face.
Auron opened the door to the home just in time to see Rikku and the mystery man walking back from wherever they had gone. They both held some bags in their arms, and Auron could see some very personal items trying to spill from the top. His good eye narrowed in ire. It was time they had a talk.
--
Rikku jogged back to her place. She still had enough time to get ready for the wedding shower. Then she would be meeting with Yuna and they would go over together to the shore and meet with her father.
She could barely contain her excitement. She changed into a white sun dress that she knew would make Auron melt. Rikku had seen the way he stared at her last time she wore it. She brushed her hair and let it fall behind her. It now reached about her mid-back.
Yuna greeted her just as she left the hut. "You ready?" Yuna asked her.
"You bet! This is so exciting." Rikku clapped her hands together before she grabbed Yuna's and together they ran for the beach.
Cid's ship had just pulled into port as they arrived. Rikku could hardly stand still as she waited for them to drop the plank to allow passengers off. Cid was the first face she saw and she ran to his outstretched arms.
"Pops!"
"There's my little girl. How you been?"
She stepped back out of the embrace before answering. "Never better! Where's Anoki and Chappu? They here too?"
"Of course. You think your brother would miss something as the marriage of his only sister? Just give them some time. It takes him forever to shut down this rig." Cid joked as he pointed to the ship behind him.
"I believe only Anoki is slow at that." Someone spoke from behind him. Cid turned to see Chappu walking down the plank toward him.
"Chappu!" Rikku left her father to hug the red haired man next. Yuna approached him a little slower.
"Hello, Rikku." He chuckled. She let go so he could greet Yuna as well. "And how have you been? Tidus treating you right?"
"Oh yes. In fact I think he has something to tell everyone tonight too."
"Is that right? And I suppose we have to wait to hear this until then?"
Yuna nodded as she held back a mischievous grin.
--
"Kaleya?" Raze knocked on her door attempting to rouse the sleeping woman. "I got the stuff you asked for." She had sent him out after breakfast before laying back down. It unnerved him how much the woman slept, but it was really none of his business.
"About time." Her voice snapped from the other side of the door. A click was heard as the door opened. "So did you find anything out while you gone, or are you as useless as your brother?"
The words stung, but he repressed the urge to wince. Kaleya had taken him and his brother in when they had no where left to go. In turn they did anything she asked without question. Not that it made her venom any easier to deal with.
"Actually ma'am. I found out a lot."
The woman turned to face him. A predatory smile spread over her features. "Do tell."
"The wedding is to be held in two weeks. You remember Lady Rikku?"
"Rikku? Rikku?" She pondered the name. It did sound familiar, but from where?
"Perhaps if I were to say 'Riana'?"
A look of realization washed over Kaleya. "Why she's the one who helped to kill Potentate Seymour, is she not?"
"The same, my lady."
Kaleya grumbled to herself. How dare that woman be allowed to live after the death of Seymour. She should have been killed along with the rest of those involved. Yet nothing had been done. Al Bhed were pardoned and lived throughout Spira as if nothing had ever happened. It made her sick to just think about it.
"Perhaps it is time we deal with this situation ourselves. Who is the man our lucky lady is to marry?"
Raze chuckled. She was going to love this one. "Why, none other then Sir Auron himself."
Kaleya glared at him daring him to tell her it was a joke. When he did no such thing, she picked up the flower vase from the dresser and chucked it at a wall. It shattered behind where he stood.
Taking a deep breath to calm herself, Kaleya spoke. "I guess it's time we intervened isn't it?"
--
The shower was held at the beach. The only place on the island big enough to hold the whole village along with guests. Rikku mingled with everyone as they gave her congratulations and such. Auron tried to be happy, but thoughts of what he had seen that morning still plagued him. He would have to speak to Rikku soon and clear this whole thing up.
Just as he reached her side and was about to, Tidus stood up on a raised platform saying he had something to announce. Yuna stood on the ground near him a huge smile on her face.
"Everyone," He began and they all fell silent. "I know we are here to celebrate the impending marriage of two of our village, but I would also like to add some more good news tonight." He glanced down at his wife lovingly. "In eight months time Besaid will have a new member to the village." Cheers went up around him as Yuna blushed. They were happy to see another family beginning.
Rikku wrapped an arm around Auron and led him over. "Yunie, I'm so happy for you! Are you nervous?"
"No, not at all. I can't wait." Tidus jumped from his spot and stood next to his wife.
"Me neither. Me, a father."
"Yuna, Tidus, I congratulate you both. That is wonderful news indeed." Auron added.
Rikku glanced up at him. He didn't sound too happy. "Auron, you okay?"
He leaned to her ear and whispered. "We must talk."
By this time others had joined in to the new parents, so they made their leave. There was a secluded area just a little ways from the beach. They walked over there, Rikku still with a tentative grin on her face.
Auron let go of her when they arrived and placed his hands on her shoulders so he could see her face.
"Auron, what's up? You don't look happy."
He sighed before beginning. "Rikku, I love you. You know that, right?"
"Well of course. And I love you too, but why are you asking me this?" Fear began to take over her as she thought of all the things he might say. What he said next was not one of them.
"Someone saw you with another man today. They came to me telling of this. Then I saw you myself. You appeared rather close, and..." He sighed again. This was not easy to say. "It appeared as if you were more then acquaintances."
Rikku quickly thought about what she did that morning and who she was with. It dawned her that maybe he was referring to Raze. "You don't mean Raze, do you?"
"So you admit it then?"
"What! Auron, nothing happened between us. Look I love you, and only you." She defended herself.
"I saw what you bought. What was all that for?"
Rikku paused. Raze had asked her not to tell anyone. It was bad enough he had to get it in the first place. "I can't say. I promised I wouldn't." She confessed.
"You can't even tell me?"
"Auron, please." Tears began to sting her eyes. "Don't you trust me?"
"How can you trust someone when they run with other men and keep secrets?"
Her jaw dropped. Was he accusing her of... No, he couldn't be. She stepped away from him as the tears now ran down her cheeks. "I-I can't believe you would think that." With a forceful tug, she pulled the ring from her finger and threw it at him. "Since you can't trust me, then forget about us!" She shouted before running off.
Lulu saw as a young blond ran away along the path parallel to the beach. She tried to imagine why she was crying. Rikku had seemed so happy not too long ago. It was time to find out some answers.
"Wakka, take Vidina. I need to talk to Rikku."
"Sure, Lu." He took his son from her arms and joined back with the rest of the island.
Lulu walked silently in the sand. She could hear voices talking some ways from the rest of the party.
"Auron, it's been so long. Did you miss me?" It was a low and throaty voice, almost seductive.
Auron for his part sounded nervous. "Kaleya. What are you doing here?"
A flirty laugh was heard next. "But, Auron, I came here for you. I missed you ever so much. Don't you remember the promise we made when we were younger?"
"No, I don't." It sounded flat, like he was holding back.
Lulu moved closer to try and see if she would be able to catch a glimpse of what was happening. She was shocked to see a tanned brunette woman standing very close to Rikku's fĂance. Her fingers moved along his jaw. Lulu stayed silent as she watched what happened next.
"You promised that one day we would get married when we got older. That you would wait until I was old enough then you would propose."
"We were children!" He snapped back. "You cannot expect me to keep the promise of a five year old." He tried to step away from the woman, but she only moved closer. "I love Rikku, and I plan on marrying her."
Kaleya moved her hand down to his where he held it in a tight fist at his side. She lifted the hand up to where they could both see it and slowly opened it up to see that it held a ring. "Somehow, I don't think she wants you anymore, love. It would seem as she changed her mind."
Lulu gasped. There was no way. She was torn in two. Should she stay and find more out, or try and find Rikku and talk to her? Right now, staying seemed the more likely way of getting information.
Auron closed his fist again anger burning through his body. "Kaleya, leave now. I have nothing more to say to you." He moved away from her giving her the chance to leave.
She glared at him before taking a step back. "Fine, but in the end, you will come to me." She stormed off quickly.
Auron released a sigh of relief. He had not seen that woman since he was nine, why would she come to him now? Why after all these years? With a heavy heart he made his way back to the beach to tell everyone the wedding was off.
Lulu was about to follow before a hand was clamped over her mouth preventing her from calling for help. In her panic she tried to cast only to find the spells not doing any damage.
"Listen, mage. I advise you to come quietly. I'm not so foolish that I don't know what you are capable of. As soon as I saw you sneak away, I slipped on a nul-shield. Go ahead, cast all you want. Use up your magic reserves. But I think the boss would like to see you first." He hissed in her ear.
Very calmly, Lulu shook her head to signal she would go. At this point she didn't have much of a choice.
"That's a good mage." He chuckled lowly before her world went black.
--
Auron walked back to the party head held high. He didn't want anyone to worry over him. His problems were his alone. He soon found Tidus and strolled over next to him. He stood afar from his wife, but watched her as others still congratulated her.
"Tidus, a question. Have you perchance seen Rikku around?"
Tidus turned to regard the older man. He scratched his head as he thought. "Last I saw, she was with you."
"Hm. Thank you." Auron started to walk away before Tidus stopped him.
"Something up?"
"Yes, in fact it is. I believe it is safe to say the wedding is now off." He replied while keeping the emotion from his voice.
Tidus gasped. "No way! What do you mean 'no wedding'?"
Everyone around them stopped. All went silent. Auron still had his back turned as he spoke. "I mean Rikku gave back the ring. There will not be a wedding after all." He left it at that and while whispers went up around him, he went home.
--
Rikku never made it inside her house. Her strength left her just outside. She fell to the ground crying while her hands covered her face. Soon she felt a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"What is the matter, pretty lady?"
Rikku lifted her head to see a familiar face. "Raze. He-he doesn't trust me!" She sobbed as she threw herself into his arms. "No-nothing happened, and, and he says that I can't be tr-trusted."
"There, there. I'm sure it will all work out, yes?" He pat her back to reassure her.
"No it won't. I even gave back the ring, and told him the wedding was off." She wailed even more and pressed her face closer into his chest.
"There now. Why don't we get you inside and cleaned up. Those tears do not become you." He suggested as he helped her to stand.
With a nod, Rikku agreed. He helped her inside and told her to wait as he prepared a bath for the young woman. When he finished he came out to tell her it was ready. It smelled so good. How did a man know just what she would like?
"I will be waiting for you out here. When you are finished, I will have a cup of tea ready."
"Thank you, Raze. You are very kind."
"Think nothing of it." When she left the room, a grin spread over him. Everything was falling into place. Kaleya would be happy.
An hour later, Rikku stepped out of the bathroom wearing a robe over shorts and tee shirt. On her feet were a pair of black slippers.
Raze smiled gently at her before offering the promised tea.
"That was so nice. Sorry it took so long, I almost fell asleep in there."
"No apologies necessary. I understand perfectly." He watched as she sipped the hot drink. He frowned, perhaps he made it too hot. That thought was brushed aside as she began taking bigger sips.
"This is wonderful. Wherever did you learn to make such delicious tea?"
"It's a secret. Passed down in my family for generations." It wasn't a complete lie. His recipe only had one thing added that was not originally in it.
That secret kicked in seconds later when Rikku began to fall back out of her seat. He quickly caught her before she hit the floor. He picked her up and threw her over his shoulder. Grabbing one of her covers he threw that over her in case someone were to see him. The next step would be to get her back to Kaleya.
--
Kaleya was huffing and stomping around the rented room. Auron had brushed her off like she was an old rag. Had he no care? Another man stood near the door watching her.
"Lutz, where is your brother? He was supposed to be here!"
A knock on the door answered her before he could. Cautiously the stout man opened it. Behind it stood Raze with a blanket thrown over his shoulder.
"Raze, where have you been? I thought you were supposed to be here when I got back."
"Forgive me, ma'am."
"And what are you doing with that cover?" She added.
Raze grinned. "This cover is the reason I am late." He walked over to the bed and lay it down so they could see what he had.
Lutz quickly shut the door before walking over. Kaleya gasped as she figured out what he had done.
"How-how did you manage this?" Kaleya stuttered out.
"Simple, the girl trusted me. I simply let her continue that, until I slipped some sleeping weed into her tea."
"Well now. You have done something right for once. Put her with the other." She commanded.
"The other, ma'am?" Raze asked confused.
His brother answered him. "Yeah, I caught that mage sneaking around, so I caught her and brought here here."
"I see." Raze picked the sleeping girl up once again and followed Lutz to their room.
Kaleya watched as they left. Now all that was left was to trick Auron into marrying her like he had promised.
--
That night Wakka sat up in bed worried about his wife. It was not like her to be gone for so long. Vidina was sure to miss his mother soon too. It was dark out, but he had to find her. He crept into his son's room and made sure to wrap the child in warm clothes. He cried softly at having been woken up.
"Shh, it's ok. Daddy's here." Wakka whispered to calm him. "We're just going to go find mommy."
At the name, the child quieted. But where should he look first? Lulu mentioned she was going to talk to Rikku, maybe he should check there.
It was dark out, but he managed to find the Al Bhed home without too much trouble. He knocked on the door. When there was no answer, he tried again. Still nothing. Perhaps the woman fell asleep while talking? He tried to push the door and find out. It opened with ease which left him a little uneasy. Gulping down the doubt in his throat, he stepped into the house.
"Lulu, Rikku?" He whispered into the even darker house. There wasn't even anything to prove someone was there at all. "Lulu, Rikku!" He tried again louder. This was getting creepy. The babe in his arms could feel his unease and began to cry in soft wails.
"Shh, it's ok. It's ok." Wakka hugged the baby closer. "Why don't we go over to Aunt Yuna's and Uncle Tidus'? You like them."At the mention of the two Vidina calmed down.
Wakka left the house and knocked on Tidus'. Tidus opened it blurry eyes after a few moments.
"Do you have any idea what time it is?" He yawned.
"Sorry to wake ya, brudder. But I got a bit of a problem." Wakka explained. "Lu ain't home yet, and that's got me worried."
Still brushing sleep from his eyes, Tidus asked him, "Have you checked Rikku's? They like to hang out from time to time."
"Ya. I checked there first. The place is dark."
Tidus perked up right away. That wasn't normal. "Hold on. I'm going to get Yuna. We need to tell Auron." He left the doorway before turning back. "You better come inside."
Wakka took him up on his offer, and he stood in the middle of the main room as he waited for Yuna and Tidus to come back.
"Wakka, what's going on?" Asked an equally confused Yuna. Tidus must not have told her what happened.
"Lu isn't home yet. I got worried, ya."
"He said he checked over at Rikku's and the place was empty." Tidus filled in when he entered the room. He had changed clothes and now wore a pair of jeans and black hoodie. "Let's go tell Auron together. He deserves to know."
"Yuna, could you watch Vidina for me?" Wakka asked as he glanced to the sleeping babe.
"You know I will." Yuna assured. "Go find Lulu." She took the baby and watched as the two men went back outside.
--
Auron awoke to pounding on his door. He tried rolling over hoping that whoever it was would give up and go away. That was not to be. With a groan he rolled out of bed and landed hard on the floor.
"Coming!" He shouted just to stop the knocking. He pulled himself to his feet and the knocking continued when he was not at the door immediately.
He threw open the door and glared at the two on the other side of it. "This had better be worth it, or else I'm liable to castrate the both of you in the morning."
The two men gulped as they debated who was going to be the one to tell him.
Finally it was Wakka who said it. "We, um, have a bit of a problem." Auron raised a brow but the fact he didn't say anything gave him the courage to continue. "Lulu never came home tonight." Still no comment. "I, uh, tried checking Rikku's place, ya. No one was there, place was empty."
Tidus shook his head to signal it was the truth.
Auron tried to remain calm. Rikku and Lulu missing. Lulu he was sure could handle herself, but Rikku worried him. She was still young. Leaving the two outside he went back in to change. Black shorts was not something to wear when searching. He came back out in black pants, shirt, and boots. On his back was strapped his weapon, the Masamune. This was the sword her has crafted two years ago when they fought Seymour. Perhaps they would need it again.
"Let's go." He muttered as they stared at him in shock. Did he really think he would need it. "You plan on staying here all night? Gran your weapons and let's move." Auron snapped back at them. They complied quickly.
--
"Ugh. Where am I?" Rikku woke up on something hard with a pounding in her head. The last thing she remembered was talking to Raze at her place. She used one hand to try and rub away the headache.
"I'm afraid we are both stuck in some sort of cage." A soft voice answered for her.
Eyes wide, Rikku searched around for the source. They fell on Lulu who sat across from her. Her black leather dress splayed around about her.
"Lulu? What are you doing here?" She groaned again as the pain hit once more.
Lulu reached into her cleavage and removed a vial. "Glad they didn't search everywhere. Here, take this." Rikku readily did so. "It would seem as someone doesn't want us near Auron." She finally answered.
"What do you mean? What do you have to do with Auron?"
"I saw him talking to another woman."
Rikku's normally green eyes turned an even darker shade in anger. "What? How dare he? First he accuses me of being with another man then he goes and does the exact same thing. I'm glad I called off the wedding now." She huffed and crossed her arms over her chest.
"Actually, it's not the way you are thinking. Auron apparently knew her years ago. She tried forcing herself at him."
"And I'm sure he loved every second of it." Rikku said sarcastically.
"Honestly, no. He seemed to despise the woman. But you should know one thing, he does still love you." He voice softened even more as she relayed the words she had over heard.
Rikku scoffed. "I'm sure. He loves me so much that he doesn't even trust me."
--
Auron had suggested they split up, they would be able to cover more ground that way and perhaps find the two woman faster. As Tidus and Wakka ran near the forests and paths around the village, Auron tried the inn first. The proprietor was sure to have seen something odd.
"Sir Auron. Pleasure to see you. But I have a feeling this is not a casual visit?"
"I'm afraid not. Two woman of the village have gone missing. Have you seen anything strange around here?"
"As a matter of fact I have." He looked around making sure no one was listening before leaning closer. Taking the hint, Auron did the same. "Those people that came in yesterday. The two men came back each carrying something. I didn't think much of it until now when you said something. Check rooms nine and ten. That's where they are staying."
"Thank you very much. You have been most helpful." Auron turned on his heel and walked down the hall lined with doors. Picking one of the mentioned two, he tried his luck. A woman's voice called through the door.
"Boys, unless it's an emergency, I suggest it wait till morning."
"Kaleya." Auron hissed to himself. Composing his temper, he replied back to her. "Kaleya, it's me. Auron." He hated how desperate he sounded.
The door flew open and he found himself yanked into the room seconds later.
"I knew you would come back to me. You always did." Kaleya whispered into his ear.
"You're wrong. I came for Rikku. Where is she?"
"Rikku? That child? Why Auron forget about her and you can have something much better." Her tongue sneaked out and he pulled himself away from her as it attempted to caress his earlobe.
"Don't do this, Kaleya. Where is Rikku?" He warned.
Kaleya huffed. "Very well. Come with me. I'll show you."
He followed her from the room to the one next to it. "Boys, let me in." She yelled through the wood. It opened immediately.
Auron's brow shot up. Inside the room was some sort of cage. And inside the cage was the two woman he was searching for. Lulu was still dressed in her normal black dress, but Rikku was wearing a green robe and black slippers. She looked as if she had been getting ready for bed.
"Release them." He ordered as a snarl crossed his face.
"Oh, but I think not." Kaleya purred. "There has to be some kind of exchange for that."
Auron growled as he tried to pull his weapon from his back. Kaleya saw the movement and stopped him by casting a thunder spell at him.
"I don't think so, love. Tell you what. You for the mage. I don't need her anyway."
Raze and Lutz stood near watching. Though Raze was starting to feel a bit of regret. He has actually started to enjoy Rikku's company. He knew that after Kaleya got her way, she would kill the girl. He redirected his gaze to stare elsewhere.
Auron didn't hesitate to answer her. "Deal."
Rikku and Lulu gasped. How could he be so foolish?
Kaleya smirked. "Boys, release the mage." She ordered.
Auron watched as they let Lulu from the cage. She moved closer to him as if to ask why. "Wakka is looking for you. Go home to him." He whispered before she even spoke.
"Lutz, make sure the lady makes it home. Raze, remove the sword from Auron. We can't have him escaping his part of the deal."
The brothers moved to do as she said. Lutz with a smile, Raze looking guilty.
"I'm going back to bed now. After all, I have a lot to do in the morning. I'm getting married." She laughed as she left.
Rikku moved away from him as Auron was ushered into the cage as well. She was still mad at him for what he said. With a sigh, Auron sat on the hard ground and glanced around before his attention fell on her.
"Reinforced steel. The metal absorbs all elements. And even if you get past that, it sends a shock meant to stop you there." Rikku suddenly said.
"I didn't say anything."
"I knew what you were thinking. I was answering it for you before you asked."
Auron chuckled. "Actually, I wasn't thinking that at all."
Rikku looked at him confused. "You weren't?"
"No, I was going to ask if you were alright."
"Just peachy." If possible, Rikku slumped even lower to the ground.
"Rikku?" She made a sound to indicate she was listening, but said nothing. "I'm sorry. I should not have accused you like I did. I was wrong."
"Well at least you see it." She snapped.
Auron sighed, she was being too stubborn.
--
The first chance she had, Lulu checked her baby's crib. Was Vidina safe. She panicked when she saw he was not there. Perhaps Wakka had him with him. Making sure that Lutz guy was gone, she snuck out from her house. She had to look for her husband and child.
Yuna must have seen her as she ran past, because she heard the healer calling her name.
Lulu held Vidina close once she was safe inside the house. "Yuna, where's Wakka and Tidus?"
"They went out to look for you and Rikku about an hour ago. What happened? Is Rikku safe?"
"Not quite. It seems as we have a fiend in the village." Yuna gasped. "Not that kind. A woman Auron must have known years ago. She had myself and Rikku kidnapped. I was released in exchange for Auron."
"We can't let her get away with this!" Yuna said with force.
"I agree, but we must first find Tidus and Wakka. We have to let them know what's going on.
That task was finished as the previously mentioned men came inside. Wakka seemed to be holding Tidus up as he limped inside.
"Told ya you should have been more careful brudda." Wakka was heard saying.
Yuna rushed to her husband's side. "What happened?" She asked as she began to chant a healing spell.
"Tidus here thought it would be smart to climb the trees in the dark to find the girls." Wakka answered.
"And it would have too, if you hadn't climbed after me and breaking the branch with your weight!" Tidus defended.
"Um, Wakka." Lulu cut in.
Wakka forgot about the argument as he saw his wife. "Hey, Lu. You're okay. Where were you?"
"I'll tell you later. I think we need to get some sleep and think of a plan in the morning."
"But what about Rikku and Auron?" Yuna protested.
"Don't worry, Yuna. They will need the time to talk anyway."
--
"So why did you come? Trying to play the hero?" Rikku whispered so as not to wake the sleeping men in the room.
"Rikku, I came for you. I could not, in good conscience, let you go."
It was early morning, and they had woken up before anyone else had. Kaleya would be coming soon and they still had no idea how to get out. Rikku may have been angry at him, but she sure didn't want that woman to marry Auron instead of her.
"Auron," Rikku began without the harshness she had moments ago. "Who is Kaleya?"
"We grew up together when I lived in Bevelle. When I was five we made a promise that we would get married. It was a foolish thing to do, but we were children. After we turned nine her family moved away and I had not seen her since. However, it would seem as she still expects me to hold onto that promise." He explained.
"Oh. Did you love her?"
"I didn't know what love was. Not until recently."
Rikku dropped her gaze again. Sounds of the brothers waking up were heard. They fell silent not wanting them to hear the conversation. Banging was heard on the door next. Kaleya had come.
"Boys, wake up! Bring Auron down to the beach. I'll be waiting there." She yelled through the door.
A chorus of "yes ma'am" was heard. Lutz was the first to roll out of his bed. He eyed the two in the cage making sure they were still there. "Come on, Raze. Better do as she says before we get in trouble."
"I hear ya. Give me a sec." He yawned before sitting up in his own bed.
Together the two men moved closer to the cage and opened the door. Auron took a chance and used his shoulder to ram the first man who happened to be Lutz. While he was struggling to stand, Auron do the same to Raze.
He wrapped his hands around Rikku and all but threw her from the cage. "Go now!" He shouted to her.
Rikku hesitated. "Auron." She cried.
"Don't worry about me. I'll be fine." Lutz had stood up and punched Auron in the stomach. Doubled over in pain, Auron dropped. His eye still pleaded with Rikku to run. She did so.
Once outside, Rikku had no idea what to do. She was still dressed in her robe from the night before. Maybe it would be best to go home and change before she tried to help Auron.
Inside her house she slipped into a pair of black shorts and yellow top. Cream colored boots adorned her feet. She strapped on an Al Bhed thigh pouch and belt. Used to hold items and such. The last thing she grabbed was her old claw. A weapon she had long forgotten about. It had been a while since she used it. She stared at it with love as she thought about how Auron had crafted it just for her.
Rikku picked her robe from the floor and threw it on the bed. When she did so, something was heard hitting the wall. She stopped to see what it was. On the floor near her bed was a ring. The ring Auron gave her when he proposed. Rikku gasped when she saw it. How had he gotten it back to her? Fighting back tears, she slipped it on her finger and ran out the door.
--
A knock lifted four heads to look to the door. It was Lulu who stood to answer it.
"Cid. What are you doing here?" She asked surprised.
"What do you mean, what am I doing here? I'm looking for my daughter. I've been trying to get her to answer her door for the past hour."
Those in the room looked at each other with guilty glances. No one had thought to tell her father what had happened. Yuna stood to be the one to do so now.
"Uncle Cid?" She started. "Something happened. Rikku has been..."
"Come on. Out with it!" He urged.
"Rikku was kidnapped. We were sitting here trying to think of ways we could hopefully rescue her." She dropped her head to the floor as if shamed.
No one had seen the red haired man behind Cid, so when he spoke up it was quite a surprise. "I do not think you have to worry about rescuing her anymore." There was a slight jesting tone.
"Chappu!" Wakka stood from his seat next to greet his brother. "What do you mean about Rikku, ya?"
Chappu chuckled again. "You did not see her running past just now? She is probably well on her way down to the beach by now."
Every tried to run past them at the same time. Lulu paused for a moment when she remembered about Vidina. "Cid, Chappu, could you perhaps watch Vidina for me?"
"You know we would love to, Lulu. You go on. We'll stay here."
"Thank you, Chappu." Lulu ran to join the others.
--
Rikku arrived at the beach in time to see Auron standing next to Kaleya. That in itself was bad enough, but Auron was dressed up in some sort of suit or tuxedo, and Kaleya... she was wearing a dress. A white wedding dress.
Rikku narrowed her eyes, this meant war.
"Kaleya, stop!" She shouted to get her attention first.
Kaleya turned to her two goons. "I thought you told me you killed her already!" She screamed at them.
Raze answered. "I am sorry for lying to you, ma'am. But what you are doing is wrong." Lutz gasped. What was his brother thinking? You don't go against Kaleya.
"You fool! How dare you go against my orders?" She prepared a fire spell in her hand and casted it at the taller man with force.
"Shell!" The command was heard from along the path, and everyone turned to see Yuna standing with her hand still outstretched.
Rikku didn't bother waiting for them. She ran next to the fallen man. The spell had been weakened by the barrier, but it wasn't enough to stop it.
"Raze, Raze! Speak to me!" She grabbed his shoulders and shook him.
"Rikku, you must leave. It is not safe for you." He wheezed.
His statement was proved right as Rikku felt someone grab her by her hair and pull her away from the man.
"You little witch! I'll kill you myself! Lutz, take care of the others."
The heavier man went off to do as she said. Auron stood still not seeming to even see what was going on. The two woman traded spells. Kaleya would start with a fire spell then move on with ice. She had hoped the opposing elements would react to each other. But Rikku had been prepared for something of that nature.
The bangle she wore absorbed two of the elements. Therefore making herself immune to them. "At least one good thing will come out of my time with Seymour." She muttered to herself. It was true though, Seymour had managed to unlock her full potential. Although at the time it was so she could use it against her friends, now she was going to use it to protect them.
"Thundaga!" Rikku shouted back. Sparks circled around the other woman before the sky opened up and more sparks came shooting straight down hitting Kaleya.
Now struggling to remain standing, Kaleya reaching into her pocket and pulled out a potion. She drank it greedily before looking at Auron. A predatory smile came over her. "Auron, kill her for me."
Not that she had time to even think of where it came from, Auron swung his massive blade toward Rikku. She rolled away in time before it connected. He pulled it out of the sand and tried again.
Rikku noticed how sloppy he seemed to be swinging it. This wasn't right, he never swung it without full control. She ducked as the blade flew over her head next.
"Stop playing, just kill her already!" Kaleya shouted to him.
Rikku backed up and found herself pinned against a wall. She gulped, there was no where left to go. Auron was coming closer to her, sword raised over his head. "Please." She begged as she curled into a ball hands covering her head.
"Rikku, get up." She could hear him whisper. "You have to get up."
She lifted her head to stare at him. It couldn't be. And yet...
She slowly stood and held a hand out in front of her as if to cast another spell. Auron smiled at her. "That's right. Do it." He dropped the weapon as they both turned to see Kaleya glaring at them in anger.
"Ultima!" Rikku shouted as green and purple surrounded Kaleya. The could faintly hear her screaming as the spell took her to another semi-dimension and attacked. She appeared back again, battered and bruised. Her dress was torn and singed, but she still stood.
Kaleya raised one hand to cast one last spell before she fell. She didn't even get the first sound out before a light sword was plunged through her mid-section. She looked down in shock before turning and seeing Raze breathing heavy and kneeling behind her.
"I'm sorry, but like I said. What you have done is wrong." He fell to the ground exhausted.
Tilting her head back and outstretching her arms, Kaleya broke up into pyerflies and disappeared.
The rest of the group arrived on the beach in time to see Kaleya fade away.
"Wha-what happened?" Tidus was the first to ask.
No one answered as Auron and Rikku were already to busy establishing that the wedding was to continue after all, by participating in a lip-lock session.
--
Nine days later, a real wedding was held. Lulu and Yuna had taken Rikku to find a dress in Luca. It was just what she was looking for. White, long, and simply amazing. Auron had to agree when he saw he walking down the aisle toward him. She was stunning. The ceremony was held on the beach like they had originally planned.
Just as the new couple finished the vows, they kissed as the sun set below the water. Cheers went up around them. Rikku threw the flowers, a bouquet of moon lilies, behind her. They fell directly into the lap of Raze. Yuna had been able to heal him after the battle, and as he looked around stunned and confused everyone laughed. A reception was held right away, and everyone was filled with all the food and drinks as they wanted.
Then around the middle of the night, they waved as the new couple left for Macalania to celebrate their honeymoon.
--
"So Auron, what do we do now?" Rikku asked her new husband from the next room.
He smirked at her question as he thought about some of the things he wanted to do now. The smirk changed into one of happy shock when she entered the bedroom. She crawled on the bed next to him and her hand found the tie to the robe he had on. Words were not needed after that as they spoke everything with their bodies.
Lips met lips in a passionate game of cat and mouse. Hands exploring every inch of their parters bodies. It was no surprise when they did not emerge from the room till late the next day.
Fin
--
Wow. That's all I can say about this thing. I can't believe how long it came out as. But it only took about three days to type because I knew just what I wanted to type before I even started. Hope you all enjoyed it though. Gin
