Disclaimer: So, how is everybody? Anything new? Not here, either.

A Legend's Journey

Chapter 14

As soon as the sky lightened enough, Auron rose from his bed, started the coffee in the kitchen and stared out the windows as dawn painted the sky with kaleidoscope of changing colors.

He removed his blade from the wall in the living area and took it to the kitchen where he began to clean it from yesterday's battle, while he thought.

This was a day he had never expected to see. Yet, here he was. Many emotions mixed in his being, but he had an inner peace and contentment that he welcomed as a thirsty plant welcomes cool rain. He had no doubts about his decisions and he realized that he was actually happy.

Auron. Happy. Those two words were not familiar with each other.

An image of Raine's face formed in his mind and his face softened, his lips held a small smile, his eyes were at peace. Today his life would change forever and he could hardly wait.

His shoulder was complaining and his smile faded. That was a bad situation yesterday. He'd never had to take on two varuna by himself before. They were vicious monsters and were hard to kill. He knew he had been lucky to have gotten away with it though he hadn't had a choice to try. It was exceptionally rare that Kimahri wasn't close by. Kimahri didn't get even half the credit he deserved!

Tinkling bells at the outer door broke into his thoughts. He replaced the now-clean blade back in its holders on the wall and went to the outer door. Opening the door, he saw a bright-eyed Julan awaiting admittance.

"Good morning, Julan! Come in, the coffee's ready."

"Good morning, Sir Auron! How's the shoulder this morning?"

"Sore as blazes but I don't think it has bled much during the night. It probably wouldn't dare after you poured that liquid lightening on it!" He shot the old Healer a look.

Julan chuckled. "It is a painful remedy but it is also the most effective one. I thought that perhaps you would want as much use out of it as possible as quickly as possible, hm?"

In the kitchen, he had The Guardian sit while he unwrapped the bandaging and had a look. "Oh, yes! That's much better! Think you can handle one more application of the 'lightening'?"

Auron sighed and screwed his eyes tightly shut. The old Healer uncorked a small vial from his pouch and carefully poured it onto the jagged gash on The Guardian's arm. It burned furiously but not as badly as the first application did last night.

Julan looked at it carefully. "I don't see any signs of infection or poison, so if we keep it clean it should heal without trouble. Let it rest a day or two; that will give it a chance to heal itself properly."

He skillfully wrapped fresh bandaging around the upper arm and stepped back. "Now! That will cost you a cup of that very good coffee you brew!" A twinkle sparked in his gray eyes.

"My pleasure, Julan. I owe you much, in many ways." Auron sat a cup on a saucer and filled the cup with the freshly brewed hot coffee and put it in front of the old man.

Continuing, Auron's voice was low with the sincerity he felt. "If it wasn't for you, I never would have known about Raine's feelings and who knows how badly that would have turned out."

Looking into the gray eyes watching him, a bit of a smile appeared on his lips. "Because you cared, we discovered our mutual feelings. We're to be married today, Julan. I'm greatly in your debt. Your role will never be forgotten by either of us!"

Julan's old eyes held a bit of mist as he looked down for a moment. He was touched as he hadn't been since he could remember. Not quite trusting his voice, he reached for his cup and took a sip.

Feeling more in control of himself, he said, "Sir Auron, you and Raine are special to me in many ways. Not only because of what you have done for all the people of Spira, but also because of the principles and values that you have lived by and still do. Character is very important! And I appreciate how you've treated an old Healer. Raine feels more like the daughter I never had. She is something special!"

He paused a moment before continuing. "Yesterday, I was absolutely terrified when I saw that you were taking on two of those heinous monsters alone. And when Raine raced in, I'm sure my heart stopped! Thanks to your skill, it turned out well with only the wound in your shoulder." He shook his gray head. "I hope I never witness such a scene again!"

Auron's eyes were thoughtful. "Julan, I've faced so many monsters, fiends and enemies of one sort or another that their number is countless. But yesterday was the first time I ever had to face two of the caliber of the varuna alone. And I wasn't positive that I could take them both. When I slid in the goop, I knew I had a bad situation but I thought I could at least survive. My blade is sharp and I am strong!"

He closed his eyes and was silent for a moment. "When Raine – when I saw Raine fly by and attack -" He paused again and took a deep breath. "I have never felt more terror than I did at that moment. It could – it could have – killed her in one swipe." His breathing was labored at the memory.

"She had never even held a sword before! It is a dull practice sword and was never intended for real battle. And, for her, it's very heavy. How she swung that thing with enough force to actually do damage to a varuna is beyond me!"

His voice was very low and quiet. "She thought she was protecting me."

Several moments passed before he continued. "And her attack did give me time to get my footing. Without firm footing, not only are your attacks weaker but you have a much higher chance of sustaining a lot of damage to yourself. She made that last killing attack possible."

His feelings for her were so deep and overwhelming that they defied description or naming. He dropped his eyes. "There is no way I can tell her how much I love her, how much she means to me. But I'll spend the rest of my life trying."

Julan found his voice, "Her courage will never be questioned! I will never forget the sight of the two of you as that last fiend fell. Sir Auron, she is your match and there is no doubt that the two of you are meant for each other."

The the twinkle returned to the gray eyes. "I am truly happy for both of you! I wish a very long, long and happy life to both of you! And I'm happy I have played a small part. Now, I have to be on my way. Thank you for the coffee, Sir Auron. I hope we can share a cup now and then!"

Auron escorted Julan to the door. "You are always welcome here, Julan. You are regarded as a friend in this house."

Julan absently patted the tall man's arm - something no other would dare to do - and went on his way, his mission accomplished. He knew that Sir Auron needed a release, a moment to talk about yesterday and he was glad that the famous man trusted him enough to talk and admit his fears to him. Talk can be healing and Julan would never break The Guardian's trust; the tall man understood that. Julan's face wore a smile as he made he way down the street.

Not long after, Raine awakened and smiled. Today. So unexpected. But so right. She knew with everything in her this was as it should be.

A shower, then returned to her room to prepare her clothing. She laid out the clothes she would wear this afternoon. For now, a lovely pair of dark green slacks and a top of varying soft colors from nearly white through all shades of the green of the slacks. Harlan had an excellent eye for style and color. Her own sandals slipped onto her feet, she removed the linens from the small bed. After so long, it would no longer be required.

She went to Auron's room, changed the linens and straightened the room, then went to the kitchen. Auron was at the table finishing a cup of coffee.

She smiled. 'I can hardly believe that this man loves me!' "Good morning!"

Standing, Auron smiled. "Good morning." And she walked into his embrace. His arms wrapped around her was the most wonderful, secure, happy feeling there was!

He bent down to her lips and kissed them gently, intensely, until her head was almost reeling. Oh, what a man!

Finally she caught her breath. Looking into beautiful dark eyes, her love poured out of her blue ones. "I can still hardly believe this. If it is a dream, woe to the one who wakes me from it!"

Auron held her so tightly she couldn't breathe.

"Auron, I – I can't breathe," she gasped.

He immediately released her, concern in his eyes that he might have hurt her but a bubbling laugh rose up after she caught her breath. "You don't know your own strength!"

Then concern shadowed her face. "Your arm. How is it?" Her small hand gently touched the bandages on his upper arm.

"It'll be fine. Julan came by this morning and treated it. He's got the worst potion you can ever imagine that he pours over it. If you still have an arm left after that, you'll be fine!" A smile was working at his lips.

"Julan is such a kind, sweet man. I can't help but love him!"

"What?! We haven't even said our vows yet and you love another man?!" his mock anger made her laugh.

"Yes! You'll have to be on your toes!" More of the laughter that he loved to hear.

He held her, his chin resting on her head for long, long moments. It was incredible that the two of them would have this the rest of their lives. He closed his eyes, just loving the feel of her small body against his, the sweet smell of her hair, the feel of his arms around her.

When they broke from the embrace, he asked, "Hungry?"

"Starving! Sit and I'll cook. Eggs and bacon, okay?"

"Fine." He'd happily eat sawdust if he could just eat it with her.

Raine started the bacon cooking, prepared the toast and set the eggs aside to cook last. Auron poured a cup of coffee and sat at the table, just enjoying watching her. He had been pleased to learn that she did indeed know her way around a kitchen. There was no way she could know of the local recipes, but there were many kind people who would be eager to teach her.

'Auron, the gods have smiled on you!' He unknowingly gave a huge sigh.

Raine turned, "Are you all right?"

"I don't think I will ever be better than I am at this moment," he smiled and received one in return.

Their meal now ready, they sat comfortably across from each other and enjoyed the good food.

Afterward, Auron stood and said, "There are a few matters that require my attention, but I shouldn't be gone too long. I'll return as soon."

She stood, held him in her slim arms as she looked into his face. "I'll be waiting."

Auron buckled the wide belt around his coat, sheathed his blade, and stepped out into the square. He doubted that anyone would ever again question why he always carried his blade. His lip twitched. He had adjusted the sheath so that the blade was carried on his back instead of at his side. With it on his back, he could remove it in one smooth move easier than from his side.

Unknown to him, the word of his pending wedding had spread across most of the entire town overnight. For those who may not have heard, Shandin was on site in the square with the first light with the news, issuing orders.

"People, people, let's get organized here....." "No, no, no, that goes over there! Must I do everything myself?", directing people in every direction, and it seemed the whole world knew of the reception and the reason for the occasion before Auron and Raine had even finished their breakfast.

He quickly found Kimahri. "All quiet. No fiends. Alsa keeping watch. Marin, too."

Auron nodded. He felt as if he too should be doing his part in the watch. Kimahri saw the look in his friend's eyes. "Auron already do his part. Now we do ours."

"I'm not used to being on the sidelines, Kimahri. Habits are hard to break."

A Ronso grunt responded, then, "Shoulder okay?"

"It'll be fine. Julan stopped by this morning and took care of it. Think twice before you let him pour a potion onto a wound!"

Kimahri's questioning eyes looked at him.

"It's got to be the worst stuff that has ever been mixed but it does the job." The twitch at his lips gave away his humor.

"Have you seen Marin? I'd like a word with him."

"Kimahri see outside walls."

A thump on Kimahri's considerable chest and Auron moved off.

The square was only a block or so from the eastern wall and gate so his long legs had him at the gate in a few moments. He looked around. It was really pretty in the surrounding countryside. Thick grass nodded in the passing breeze. Just outside the walls was a grassy knoll with one especially attractive tree on it that was covered in pink and white blossoms. He wasn't familiar with that kind of tree but it was very pretty.

His eyes swept the countryside around him searching for anything out of the ordinary. Nothing. He hoped with everything that was in him that the appearance of the two varuna yesterday was an aberration and would not be repeated.

He sighed. Would there ever be a time when he could truly relax? Would he forever have to be on duty? And he realized that as long as he lived he would be The Legendary Warrior and Guardian of Spira.

He closed his eyes. He would love to get his hands on whoever had saddled him with that ridiculous title! 'The sad part is that people believe it. They have no idea how close they came to losing their 'hero' yesterday,' he thought wryly. 'That's all it takes. One slip.' He knew that every warrior knew that which is why they universally shrugged off accolades and titles that civilians wanted to bestow on them.

Lost in these thoughts, Marin was almost upon him before he heard the Chocobo's feet on the ground.

"Good morning, Sir Auron! All seems quiet. Haven't had any more sightings. How is your arm?" He dismounted.

"Good morning, Marin. It'll be fine. Just hurts like blazes right now. Glad to hear of no more sightings."

Marin's intelligent brown eyes were thoughtful. "Do you have any thoughts as to why those two showed up yesterday? We haven't seen a fiend, or any trace of one, for many months. I'm concerned."

Auron thought. "I don't know, Marin. Your guess is as good as mine. I haven't traveled much in many months so I'm not aware of exact conditions in all the provinces. However, travelers have reported no problems. I truly hope it was an aberration but I would keep my guard up. Fiends can attack and kill so quickly!"

Marin listened carefully to this Legendary man. He sighed. "I've not heard of any trouble either. My men are spaced around the town but in sight of each other. They are good men, brave. They'll do their best, but I'm afraid they'll be completely ineffective if a fiend actually shows up."

He paused a moment. "Sir Auron, I have some thoughts for better preparing my small force for such emergencies. I would teach them myself but I'm hardly more experienced than they are."

He seemed to be gathering his courage. "Sir Auron, at some point, may I impose on you for some help in this area. You can tell us many things that will aid us in carrying out our duties here. I – I would be most grateful."

He looked at the tall man who was looking straight into his eyes and seemed to be examining his very soul, but he managed to not drop his eyes.

The Guardian noted that Main held his look when most would have averted their eyes. "Marin, you are a good man. You have good instincts and you manage your resources well. I'll be glad to assist you in bolstering the security of the town. There are others who would be excellent in that capacity, as well. There are none better than Kimahri and Alsa. I trust Kimahri with my very life and fought at his side for many years. Alsa is equal to Kimahri in every respect. Their experience is not surpassed. I'll speak to them, if you like."

A relieved smile crept across Marin's tanned face. He swept a hand through his dark hair. "I would be in your debt, Sir Auron."

Auron shook his head. "We all have an obligation to protect those who cannot protect themselves, Marin. It's not what we do; it's who we are."

He paused. "I'll be in touch with you in a few days. Be safe out here."

Marin nodded, remounted his Chocobo, and with a wave of his hand, continued on his endless rounds. Checking. Watching. Encouraging his tired men. Always on the move.

Auron watched him leave. 'In another time, he would have made a good Guardian," he thought.

He walked a ways down the lane that lead to the town. He had looked it over when he first arrived, but hadn't given it much thought since. Until yesterday. '

You got sloppy, Auron. You got careless. You should have made regular inspections of the area; you might have had some warning that fiends were near. You should have concerned yourself with the security of the town long ago.'

He was angry with himself. He knew better. Always keep yourself prepared. Never let your guard down. He would never make that mistake again! In anything!

He turned back toward the town, face stony, closed to the outside world as he thought and made initial plans.

As he neared the square, his thoughts turned to more immediate events, such as a wedding and reception and his countenance brightened considerably. Perhaps he should have a word with Shandin, if he could find him.

He entered the square and had never seen such commotion. Shandin was ordering people here and there, everybody seemed intent on some occupation, there boxes stacked everywhere, it was a great to-do. Shandin seemed to be in control of whatever was happening so he slipped back into the compound.

He didn't see Raine so he checked the roof. She was sitting on one of the benches, looking at the passing clouds, seemingly at peace. The smile on her face was serene.

He crossed the tiled expanse and she stood as he approached, melting into his arms. "Everything okay?" she asked, looking up at him.

"Yes, all is well. I saw Kimahri for a few moments and spoke with Marin. I was going to have a word with Shandin as I came in, but the entire square seems to be in upheaval with a great deal of noise and commotion, lots of coming and going, so I decided that it would be better if I just stayed out of the way and let him do what he does best!"

Raine laughed at his description. No, arranging receptions would not be Auron's strong suit! Her smile made her eyes sparkle like the ring on her finger.

Taking a seat on a bench, "Do you want a bit of lunch?" she asked.

"No, I'm fine, but would you like something?"

She shook her head. "I think I'll just have some juice for now. We'll have something at the reception this evening, I'm sure."

She saw from the look on Auron's face that he had something he wanted to say, so she just sat quietly until he was ready to speak.

Finally, he moved in front of her and took her hands in his big ones. "Raine, about yesterday." He paused and looked down before looking back into her blue eyes. "I have fought hundreds, if not thousands, of enemies of all sorts. I'm one of the best."

She knew he wasn't bragging. He was just stating a known fact.

He continued, "I've never had to face two enemies of the caliber of those two varuna yesterday. Usually Kimahri has been there with me. I was thinking earlier today that he has never had even half the credit he deserves!"

"But, anyhow, when I slipped in that goo, I knew I was in a bad situation though I thought that I would most likely win. Raine, I can handle my weapon as no one else can. Even flat on my back, I can do a lot of damage with it."

"But having said that, there was a real chance that the varuna could have gotten in a bad blow. You can't make an effective attack if you are off-balance or don't have solid footing. I was terrified when I saw you fly by me and attack that monster. A varuna is a deadly, vicious, cunning enemy and can move like lightening if it wants to. It is one of the worst."

"You managed to hit it with enough power that you actually did damage it. Enough that it gave me time to regain my footing and able to make the attack that killed it."

"Your action changed the outcome from 'probably' to 'certain'. I'll never know how you even managed to swing that sword, much less do it well enough to do the damage you did. You get full credit for turning the battle to my favor and everyone knows it."

"But I beg of you! Please! Please! In the future, if there is ever another fight, please stay back out of the way. What if I had swung my sword at the wrong moment? I could have killed you. The varuna could have killed you. I have to know that you will stay clear so I can fight as I've done all my life. Will you promise me that?"

Raine listened and studied his serious, intent face, the dark eyes probing into hers. She thought before she answered. "Auron, I understand what you're saying and why. Yesterday, I saw what you were up against. Kimahri was nowhere in sight. I don't think anybody else in this town even owns a sword so I found your other one. I knew that if something happened and you needed help, there was no one else. And when I saw you slip in that stuff and that thing started toward you, there is no way I could stand there and do nothing."

"I ran as fast as I could and swung as hard as I could. It almost jarred the sword out of my hand. Then I heard you yell at me and I knew you were back up, so I got out of the way."

"Auron, please don't be angry with me, but if it came to that again, I would have to do the same thing. I will never stand by and let anything harm you if I can possibly prevent it! I'm sorry, but I can't make that promise to you."

His serious dark eyes searched deeply into hers. He knew with certainty that she would. He sighed. She waited.

"Well. There's only one thing I can do."

Almost afraid of his response, she softly asked, "What is that, Auron?"

"I guess I'll have to teach you how to actually use a sword, won't I?" That corner of his lip was twitching.

Small arms wrapped themselves tightly around his neck. "Auron, I'll do my best if you want to teach me. I've never tried anything like that before. Thank you for not being angry with me!"

His kiss was anything except angry.

Later, she moved from the bench and stood in front of him. Even though he was seated, she was just barely taller than he was. "I'm going to get a fresh shower and dress." She put her arms around his neck and pulled him close. With a sweet kiss near the silver at his temple, she released him and left.

Auron sat for a while. He had never felt so at peace. He smiled.