Broken Wings - Chapter Thirty Two

Verian was aware of the near silent footsteps that followed him around every corner and turn. When he turned, all he saw were shadows. He didn't call out; he knew who it was. Only when he reached a secluded park did the stranger slip from the darkness. The man was significantly shorter and younger than his brother, but they shared the same silver hair and glowing, catlike green eyes. Unlike his brother, this man was a friend.

"Aralyn rejected you," Kadaj began, smiling.

Verian frowned but did not comment on the obvious insult. "What do you need?"

"I have come to renew my offer," Kadaj said bluntly, idly tossing a materia sphere in his hand as he spoke. "Maybe this time you will accept?"

Verian sighed, but approached the man. "Why?"

"I don't comprehend your meaning."

"Why are you offering this? Your brother Yazoo clearly disapproves, and if I'm not mistaken, you serve the same master. Won't this go against whatever pact binds you?"

Kadaj chuckled. "Hardly. He happens to be away on…business, and what he doesn't know won't hurt me. That is none of your concern, however. I am offering to help you. What I gain is my business. I believe that what you gain will be worth it."

Verian looked hesitant, so Kadaj continued. "Aralyn is yours by right. Both you and I know that. But do you have another solution?"

Verian turned his back. "Can I have time to think this through?"

"You don't have that time," Kadaj shot back. "Aralyn is dying. She will not survive to fulfill your purposes unless you act quickly."

"You know about…?"

"About her gift? Of course. Quite enviable…even enough to make a man want to marry, I suppose…"

Kadaj's tone was playful, while Verian's was serious and grave. Kadaj gave him another moment, before Verian gave his answer.

"Do it."

Kadaj grinned evilly, drawing his blade and turning to head away. "I'm glad you see reason. Just don't tell anyone, and do exactly as I say, or the both of you will pay as dearly as I will."

A/N: A short chapter, but an important one. Yes, I am evil...but all the stuff I have is in my head, and I'll post at least once more before I go back to school on Wednesday. (What moron made us go back on the second?!?! I'd like to know who was in charge of that brilliant idea...) The next chapters are my favorite out of all of them, and I think you will enjoy them as well. Things will pick up pace really quickly in both the flashbacks and the "current" happenings. Consider the first domino fallen.

And rinnyzito, stop hitting yourself. They are attatched, just not like that. You were so right that I was surprised. You have been on quite a few more than one points. And to everyone else, it seems to be agreed that Zack and Reno are good ideas...I will keep that in mind. Thank you for the support...this story would have stopped a long time ago without you guys pushing me along.