Chapter 9:
Heart
The night was going to be a peaceful one. The breeze was light yet refreshing, somehow everything felt still and there was silence. As Leon walked down the street he felt no disturbing presences around which meant no darkness was threatening to escape and wreck havoc. A good thing, since Leon wasn't really in the mood to deal with monsters at the moment.
The man picked up his pace as, ahead of him, he saw that the door to his destination was being shut by the familiar appearance of a thin old man with a long white beard. Leon jogged, arriving just in time to hold off the door from being closed. The old man turned looking at Leon over his round spectacles with surprised brown eyes.
"Why if it isn't Leon. How are ya sonny?"
"It's been a while, Merlin" both men shook hands with friendly smiles.
"Come in, before someone sees you and thinks that I'm still open and they start pestering"
Leon huffed as the elderly man first pulled, then pushed him hastily into the book store. Thereupon closing the door then putting up the 'Closed' sign on it. The old bookstore remained as traditional as Leon remembered it. Wooden shelves harboring the books Leon always enjoyed reading as a teen. It has been quite a while since he was last here especially since Merlin would spend a lot of his time travelling.
"So, if you're here at this hour in such an unexpected visit, I can only assume that you require some assistance young man." Merlin vigorously pointed at the air as he walked pass Leon, towards the counter.
"Straight to the point aren't we?" Leon joked crossing his arms over his chest with a smirk on his face.
"Ha! Like if you weren't" the old man frowned at Leon sounding a little undignified at the accusation.
"Right. Sorry." there was no argument to be made there so Leon simply offered his elder a small sheepish smile.
"Hmph." The bookstore owner took off his eyeglasses examining them in the light for any smudges.
"So, what can I help you with this time?" Merlin took out a small handkerchief from his shirt's pocket, using it to clean the stains on his glasses, adopting a more casual tone as he spoke.
The brunette un-crossed his arms from his chest, his expression a bit crinkled. Merlin picked up on Leon's reluctance raising snowy eyebrows when he looked up in suspicion at the young Invoker. Leon looked to his side and picked up a book from the counter. After examining the cover Leon put it down as he directed his cool gaze towards the elder
"I need an amulet."
"Another one?!" Merlin stammered before he nearly squawked his words. Putting his spectacles back on he frowned at Leon "You didn't lose Griever, did you?"
"Of course I didn't." now it was Leon's turn to sound indignant as he took out the mentioned chain from under his shirt to emphasize "He's right here" Merlin made a sound, caressing his long beard as if saying 'you better have not' to which Leon raised his hands to make peace with Merlin.
"Why would you need another protective amulet for then?" he spoke over his shoulder as he turned to put away some books on the shelve behind the counter.
The answer to Merlin's question brought a bit of an eerie feeling, heart beating quicker to the beat of a fear that Leon found misplaced and irrational, but that he felt so familiar with already. Naturally it took him a few seconds before he answered
"It's-…" Leon paused considering to give an different answer to the one that burned bright even in his heart "for someone else"
Merlin placed a book on its place in the shelve, stopping with his hand resting on the spine of said book. Leon's unsure attitude was unsettling him, there had only been one time when Merlin had sensed the strange behavior within the young man. It had been years ago, back when Leon was a teen and still hadn't been bestowed with the nickname 'Leon'. Turning, the elder stroke his beard again, as he stared at the brunette in front of him. He hummed softly in contemplation for some while before he stated
"For someone you wish to protect. Someone your heart wants to unite with" it could have been a question, but Merlin was no fool, old and filled with wisdom as the very store he owned if not more. Leon was aware of this, there had been however a small thread of hope that the elder man would overlook and dismiss it. Seems Leon was out of luck so he made a face of displeasure, once again folding his arms.
"No use on trying to hide it, lad. I've meet too many hearts in my time." a knowing look over the round glasses was thrown at the brunette. Leon quickly turned his face to one side all the while still trying to keep his face impassive. Honestly, he couldn't think of anything to refute the elder.
Merlin sighed "You know, whoever it is you're trying to protect, I'd be willing to bet that it would be much better if you opened up and let the bond form…"
"I can't" the response was immediate, a little too sharp from what was to be intended.
Another silence was sowed and in Leon's eyes, Merlin saw the hidden fear. Uncertainty clouding the calls of a yearning heart. Something that saddened Merlin to admit that he was way too familiar with, bringing memories from the past.
'So, Leon has reached that point then…The poor lad' In the years he's met Squall Leonhart, Merlin had hoped that the man would never get an instinct that has been passed down through generations of Heartinvokers….
"Many years ago," Merlin started, quickly winning Leon's gaze again "back in my day and even way before that, there were much more Heartinvokers than there are nowadays..."
"There…were?" Leon glanced at Merlin bewildered and in that moment, the old man saw a hint of almost childlike innocence in the adult. But of course Merlin, kept the pity to himself, hidden, even from Leon's abilities.
Merlin picked up a book and dusted off gently, waiting to see if Leon wanted to hear the rest. Leon, having the respect he had for the man, slowly softened his expression and though he kept his arms crossed, his body was noticeably less tense. Besides, it wasn't always that he got the chance to hear tales about people like him…as far as he knew most of that knowledge was lost…if not all.
Merlin proceeded "We were around by the thousands, but by that time darkness was also in its peak.. " his expression darkened as a hand came up to caress the white beard in a short pause.
Leon looked on at the sage, puzzled but chose to remain silent and just listen.
"The Old Ways. The Original Rules. The Word Of Gods. Heart Of Hearts…" Merlin closed his eyes and furrowed his brow with a pained expression, shaking his head softly. "They gave it many names, many justifications. In the end, it was all a tragedy…"
Leon felt his heart squirming, he was used to feeling other's emotions, so whenever he felt nothing coming from another being, he would easily feel unsettled. To him, it was as if a vast vacuum would absorb him of everything, leaving him to float in nothingness. Ergo, when Merlin spoke again with a jaded gaze he never imagined the energetic, feisty old man having, the feelings pierced the young man like the finest blade conceived.
"Thank, bless and pray to whatever gods or entities you believe in, that you did not exist at the time of our ethnic cleansing."
Leon physically winced at the energy the older man was giving off, almost having to force himself to look at Merlin in the eye.
"Wh..at…is it…that happened?" making a conscious effort to maintain his composure, Leon had to nearly force the words out of his throat.
Merlin sighed deeply, shoulders heaving, a defeated look adorning his face that had never been seen by the gunblader.
"The Old Ways….demanded the cause to be above all else: Cleanse the darkness. You had no free will, no choice and no say. We were designed and engineered to repel the darkness. Some of us weren't allowed to have families or friends outside our group. Others, were stripped away from them and any who disobeyed…" Taking a pause, Merlin held his temple in his hand, gently running it over his bald head.
"Let's just say there were dire consequences…."
Leon eyes and mouth widened, picking up the subtle nuances from the older Heartinvoker. "Y-you… you..you don't mean that they…" the brunette man swallowed hard, starting to feel sick to his stomach.
Merlin nodded solemnly "Correct. We were mere disposable tools. At their whims against an unending massacre. Our.." his voice trailed off, anguish gripping at his core. "families, mere liabilities.. pawns.."
Leon gripped at his heart, wincing in pain, his mind flooding with thoughts of Sora. Suddenly aggression took command in his heart, not knowing exactly who it was directed too. "..No..! How?! How could..So that's why….there's not many…."
Merlin looked into the distant, no expression adorned his face, giving a soft sigh while running his fingers through his beard. "I know better than anyone how you must be feeling right now. You are thinking of your younger brother, no? Your burning heart aches at the thought of any harm befalling him. Which, in part, is also why you are so afraid of bonding with others."
"What do you mean?"
"We are Heartinvokers, Leon. Our hearts are more in tune with the world around us, and even more so with the heart of other Invokers….Even with those whose hearts are a rest. You could say that we were programmed to live that way for so long, that it became a sort of instinct, carved into our very beings…But this also causes a deep hole in your heart, it makes you yearn, makes you feel…incomplete."
The old man was sharp, he knew exactly where to hit. Leon felt as if he had been rendered naked, defenceless and vulnerable, looking down defeated. Merlin sighed and said
"But this heart you want to protect….I sense they bring peace to that part of you. You should listen and not take this for granted. Listen to your heart, don't fight it and let it guide you."
Leon tried to make another point but quickly shut his mouth as he considered the elder's words….Did Cloud really bring him peace? Was Cloud the one made to quell the turmoil in his heart? Looking at the floor, the thoughts made his heart leap, a wave of warmth wrapped around his chest the same way a soft blanket would on a cold day. His lips twitched upwards at the corners but he stopped them before they could form the smile.
All of this was not lost to Merlin, the old man watching with some amusement smiled to himself. His job was done, he had brought some clarity to that doubt steering the troubled heart into the right direction. There was no need for others to pay for the mistakes of the past….With regret he remembered that Leon has paid enough already….
With a quick deep breath and a comical hum Merlin dispelled all the negative energy around him, looking at Leon with a smile whilst toying with his beard. "Don't let it get to you lad, you should use that same passion and forge your own path, your own road, your own story. Especially with those whom are precious to you. History class is over." he approached Leon, resting a hand on his shoulder and patting it twice.
Leon looked surprised for a moment then let out a small smile at the older man's attitude, his heart relaxing, regaining his composure. "I'll let you know how that goes. Thanks for the history lesson…it was certainly interesting. So what abo-"
Merlin cut him off, remembering right at that instant the reason for Leon's visit "I got just the ones to choose from!"
"That was rather…quick."
"Experience young lad, experience." he opened a drawer from behind the counter to take out a large wooden box. Merlin opened the box then placed it on the counter top for Leon to see, various silver amulets resting quietly on the cushioned insides of the box.
His eyes briefly skimmed over on the far right it was medium sized silver charm in the form of a shuriken. Leon found it curious as he tilted his head a little staring at it for a little. Not too long after, his eyes were immediately without any hesitation, drawn to the charm beneath the shuriken: In pure silver, the head of a wolf facing him, a silver hoop tightly secured between the fangs of the beast. The fur around its head shaped like if it were flowing in the wind.
Leon picked it up running his thumb over it once, though barely noticeable, his mouth was agape. Slaty pupils examining every dent, every detail that was etched on the lupine amulet. In the back of his mind, yet clear as day, the nightly creature that hunted his dreams sat. It's presence so strong that Leon could literally feel it as if it were tangible; felt it staring at the object in his hands through his own eyes.
Leon barely noted when he licked his dry lips then swallowed hard, also not noting when Merlin was carefully studying him.
"You give that heart a powerful shape. The Fenrir." Merlin commented in reference to the person whom Leon wanted to bestow the amulet upon.
"Fenrir? That's the name?" Leon raised an eyebrow in doubt.
"Yes, why?"
"No it's just that…This person….has a dog also named Fenrir…" the information left hanging in the air as Leon thought it was going to be weird that both the dog and the amulet shared a name. It was also…a little amusing in its own way.
"Well, the dog has a good name then!" Merlin exclaimed lightheartedly as he patted Leon on the shoulder then added a bit more seriously "You will link it with Griever, yes?"
Leon regarded him a few seconds before nodding once. Merlin closed his eyes pushing his glasses back with a finger.
"Alright. I hope you and whoever receives this will take good care of it." Merlin drawled the end of the sentence warningly, a pointed look over the round spectacles that rested on the aged face.
"Right. Thank you, Merlin."
"Any time, Leon. Oh, and say hello to Sora for me, will you?"
"Of course. I'm sure he might drop off here to hear of your most recent travels."
"Ha! I'm sure he would"
Leon half smiled nodding to Merlin while waving once as he turned to leave. Merlin watched the man leave: Taking his place, the image of the young adolescent that had first walked into the store looking all lost, confused, angry….
"You've grown a lot. Though your heart has grown strong, it will grow stronger still once you follow it and find that which it seeks….You would have both made great warriors….
Tension was thick in the air. Everything stilled as if the ambient was holding its very breath. Anticipation. Rivalry was palpable as cerulean blue clashed ferociously with oceanic blue. Eyes narrow and hands tighten around the sharp object in their hands. A display of challenge for the price that sat in the middle of the table.
Leon sat at the middle, casually sipping away at his coffee, slurping as he studied the challengers above the rim of his cup: Completely unfazed by the tension currently taking place at his table. His eyes first going to Roxas, then to Sora to finally settle on the last of the lemon muffins he had baked as part of their breakfast. Leon gulped, released a refreshed sigh as the warm liquid ran down his throat, and slowly settled the cup back on the table.
The soft thud from Leon's cup at the contact with the wooden top and the epic battle for glory began. Weapons clanged as they fought to claim the sweet damsel that sat on its plate, waiting for who would be the victor to claim its delectable favor. Leon folded one arm across his chest using it to support the other arm whose fist he pressed against his lips. Assessing, analyzing carefully the two combatants, nodding softly to himself.
"Ha!" Sora shouted as he disarmed Roxas with his own fork already aiming to claim his victory.
"It's not over yet!" Roxas grabbed the butter knife he had been using and smacked Sora's hand with the flat side of it.
Sora let out a yelp taking back his hand to shake it. Roxas was about to stab the muffin when Sora grabbed a spoon from Leon's plate with his other hand and twacked Roxas back with it: Roxas protested but quickly grabbed Leon's fork to fend off Sora's eating utensils. The two teens caught so deep in their heated battle that they did not notice the hand that crept ever, oh so slowly towards the plate, sly and cunning like a lion poised to strike. Just when Sora had become the victor and was about to claim his prize, they saw the plate empty.
"Hey where'd it go?! Did you cheat Rox?!"
"How could it have been me if I was fighting you?!"
Realization dawned on both teens and they turned to look at Leon whom was working on the muffin he had pretty much shoved into his mouth and was chewing slowly with a nonchalant expression.
"Hey! That's not fair Leon! You weren't even in for it!"
Leon chewed then covered his mouth "Patience…" he swallowed "is a virtue my dear little brother"
Sora pouted and Roxas grumbled "Whatever…is not like I really wanted it anyways…." which of course was a lie.
Leon huffed as he stood up taking all of their plates "Well, you guys should go out and enjoy our free day. I'm gonna be meeting Cloud for his training sessions"
"Oh! How is that going?!" Sora asked enthusiastically while Roxas' expression grew serious, standing up to help Leon with the dishes.
"He's doing pretty well. I'm sure you'd enjoy sparring with him sometime" he handed a plate over to Roxas for him to dry.
"That'd be cool!"
"I'm sure it would be" Leon smirked stealing a quick glance at Roxas to find how the young male's jaw was tightly clenched the slight creases around his features giving away the half hearted attempt to remain expressionless.
"What about you Roxas?" Leon asked calmly prompting Roxas to look at him with slight confusion
"What?"
"Wouldn't you like to learn too?"
"Ohhh! Hey Rox, that'd be even more awesome! Then we can a real fight." Sora grinned as he hooked an arm around Roxas' neck.
"Maybe…." the Strife's response was low, doing everything to avoid either Leonharts' eyes.
"Awww, come on Roxas." Sora whined puckering his lower lip.
Roxas felt bad for ignoring Sora, not being able to help it when he sighed his face easing into impassiveness. Looking at him Leon pulled his lips to the side and told Sora
"Don't push him Sora. He'll let us know if and when wants to"
"Alright. But it better not be because you're chickening out" Sora punched Roxas lightly on the arm then strode off to his room to get dressed. Roxas had grinned a little at Sora's comment, when the latter had left Roxas deflated with a deep sigh turning to continue with his task.
"Something you'd like to talk about?" Leon said in the calm voice that always made Roxas open up to the man.
"The usual….." Roxas didn't need to be more clear for Leon, it's a conversation they've already had in the time he's been there. The adult hummed in acknowledgement and there was a short silence, Leon could feel the conflicting emotions in the young man so he was allowing for said emotions (and therefor thoughts) to be sorted out.
'He's so much like Cloud….' Leon almost smiled but he managed to contain it, the observation was endearing to him, somehow.
Then Roxas spoke "I miss Cloud…but…." anger and the feeling of betrayal stirred his heart as he remembered the dark look in Cloud's eyes…they way he has acted and the things he has said…As much as Roxas tried, as much as he just simply to brush it off and move forward, like he always does, he just couldn't do it. Roxas had thought that he had let out everything out of his chest that night but with the passing days he had come to realize that he had merely scratched the surface of his accumulated sentiments. Nevertheless, Roxas knew he couldn't talk to Cloud yet….Not when Cloud was doing some mending of his own…
"Cloud's been reflecting a lot Roxas" the aforementioned looked up at his elder blinking once or twice. "I have faith that you will both resolve this. But you have to go on your own pace. Take time to do some introspection of your own, it may help you quell this chattery little thing" Leon softly tapped the left side of Roxas' chest.
"It just that it feels strange….not having him around…."
Leon smiled kindly "I'm sure it does. Same as I would feel strange if Sora wasn't around…though I'm pretty sure I'd enjoy the peace and quiet"
Leon rolled his eyes talking with a nonchalant tone earning a small laugh from Roxas, and from the down the hall way they heard
"Hey! I heard that, Squall!" which only made both Leon and Roxas laugh some more.
After the small laugh, Roxas sighed lowering his head dejectedly saying "I…guess….I'll try…."
"Ok, what else?"
"Leon…..are…you sure that I'm not bothering you here?"
Yep. Definitely just like Cloud, very contrite.
"The apple doesn't fall far from the tree." the only argument Leon made ruffling Roxas' hair whom took it as Leon's way of saying not to worry.
"I guess I better get dressed before Sora gets restless…" Roxas smiled a little earning a chuckle from the adult.
"Yea. You go do that"
After a sharp nod Roxas headed to the room, Leon watching after him with a calm little smirk.
A blur of black and gold broke through the near empty streets of town, the roar of an engine giving a voice to the silent air. It has been some time since Cloud actually enjoyed a tranquil ride on his bike, even if he was on his way to make one delivery to the shop as favor for Cid.
Being left alone really had not felt all that bad, Cloud found out. He was not worried about dark entities harming him for the moment, thanks to Leon casting protective spells around the house. That, and since the sessions he's been having with Leon started some days back, have also helped significantly. His heart felt lighter, mind clearer and although he would occasionally have a nightmare he noted that they had diminished. He even noted some changes in his body. For instance, his appetite was returning ergo he was gaining some of the weight he had lost. Leon's training also required some exercise, so Cloud was starting to feel physically stronger.
There was only one thing that bothered him still and that was the mixed emotions he would get whenever he thought of Zack. The things Roxas had said, the things Cloud sees in his dreams…versus the things they had through in their relationship…Cloud was confused, if Zack had really said those things to Roxas, why wouldn't Zack tell him? Cloud whom was supposed to have been his lover, his partner…in the end…Hadn't Zack trusted him? That thought caused him a bit of anger causing him to tighten his grip on his motorcycle's handles. Yet he always choose to ignore it as he considered there were other things he had to sort out first. Among them and the most important for him at the moment was patching things up with his little brother. Despite the peace and clarity their time apart had granted, Cloud admitted that he really missed Roxas. But he guessed that could also be because he was so used to having the little blonde tailing him like a shadow; always there by his side, watching his back….when it should have been the other way around…
A regretful sigh. 'I want to fix things. I will fix things.'
The young man rode his bike towards the workshop, enjoying the pleasant breeze, he was nearing the shop, after the delivery he would head to the outer gardens were he and Leon had their lessons. The thrumming muscle under his chest gave a little leap in anticipation; Cloud found himself looking forward to the lessons, so without hesitation, Cloud sped up a little.
Like six minutes after, he got to his destination, parking the bike at the back of the shop in its usual spot, untying the box from the back seat of the bike so that he could take the object inside.
"Delivery!" he announced as he entered the door and saw Aerith ducked behind the counter
"Whoa, that was quick." she smiled as she stood up.
"It's Sunday. There wasn't much traffic" Cloud put the box on the counter as Aerith's emerald optics scanned him. His skin had a bit of more color, Cloud looked a little more full of energy too; more at ease, even if just a little.
Cloud felt the scrutiny from the older woman so he raised his gaze from the box, tilting his head a little as he looked at her curiously.
"What?" he asked innocently.
A warm smile quickly formed as the woman shook her head "Nothing. You just seem….different"
"Different?"
"Mmhm. You are a bit more chatty now that's for sure"
"Oh, well, I guess I….I…I really don't know what to say to that…" Cloud pulled his lips to the side as he rubbed the side of his neck. "I do feel a bit better I suppose…"
Aerith chuckled. "It's good to see you and Leon have become close…"
There was a pause between them. Cloud unsure once again on to what to give as a response even the though the woman was right but that was precisely why he found himself wordless. The little turn the corner of his lips made was unable to be stopped, however they did straighten quickly. It was not missed on Aerith and she too smiled before she added to her earlier statement
"You've done him good Cloud"
"Me? how?"
"Well…" she drawled as she pressed a finger to her cheek "Leon…he always seems calm but…there's always this strange air about him…Like if he's afraid or something. I think it has to do with him feeling others' hearts and all that."
"Does it have to do with him 'freaking out' when he's overwhelmed?"
Aerith paused again puckering her lips a few times in consideration of her words. Looking at the ceiling then back at Cloud she said
"Leon….It's always been hard for him. He's always had to shelter himself from others so that he doesn't lose control."
"He's lost control before?"
"Many times. After Cid took him in, he wouldn't even talk to us for quite some time…and even though he has gotten better through the years he's never quite gotten completely recovered…." Aerith held her upper arms her saddened words dying off softly. Cloud frowned sadly along with her, tilting his head. Then she spoke again.
"But when you're around, he seems more in control. More…happy, somehow."
The small unexpected lump in his throat was swallowed as Cloud contemplated Aerith's words, absently playing with the visor on his helmet. Her words were causing a small flush on his face, the small flutter in his heart made it hard to concentrate for a proper response for Aerith's observation. Cloud was not quite sure how to feel about it slowly moving his eyes to look at the silver ring he still wore. Its presence ever present, still, the weight of it slowly ebbed away. Whenever he looked at it Cloud felt like there was something he needed to do and his heart would start beating with what he thinks is anticipation.
That has been happening a lot lately…
"He cares about you Cloud."
He looks at Aerith to find the half-hearted attempt of his tongue to formulate words, stuttering until he had no option but to look away from Aerith's very pleased smug smile. The woman was relentless though, she leaned to the side trying to take a better look at the prominent blush that had started to give more color to the young man's cheeks. Cloud turned stubbornly turned his back on Aerith whom indignantly placed her fists on her waist with a pout.
"It's rude to ignore people, Cloud. Did you hear what I said?"
"Sort of" his response came a bit quickly in an embarrassed tone.
"And?"
"….You didn't have to be so forward about it…."
"Then how else was I supposed to say it?" she laughs a little thinking on how adorable Cloud looked
A shrug of the shoulder, still refusing to face the brunette woman.
'All things in good time I suppose' She chuckled to herself lightly, picking up the box to put it away.
"You better go, wouldn't want to keep Leon waiting because I'm holding you here. I'll tell Cid that you left the box. "
Aerith began walking away prompting Cloud to make an attempt at following so that he could help her. Attempt that was immediately halted when she turned and all but shooed the younger man away.
Training has been much more exhilarating than Leon had initially thought. Leon was very delighted to see that he had not been wrong about Cloud: Very good at it, a quick learner and a natural; a real thrill even if Cloud still had a ways to go. Even the meditative sessions have been very enjoyable. Before every sword fight they would warm up with the meditation. Cloud side by side with Leon, mirroring his movements and Leon correcting him whenever he got any position wrong; Both Cloud and Leon unable to ignore the near overwhelming warmth of the other's presence whenever they stood too close; when Leon touched Cloud's arm to position it correctly and Cloud turned to look into the steely optics when the touch lingered…That too has been happening a lot. But neither was sure of what to make of it even though it was becoming to clear to both, that there was something.
Then, to help push away the uncertainty, came the more thrilling side in which they both get driven by instinct and adrenaline.
As the dull sound of wood hitting hard against wood broke through the air, the occasional exasperated grunt followed.
Leon and Cloud circled eachother side stepping cautiously, eyes narrowed but only in careful observation of what would be the others' next move.
Cloud growled charging towards Leon dragging the wooden practice sword along the ground, building up strength to deliver his attack. When close enough he swung his sword towards Leon who effortlessly blocked and deflected his strike.
"Hah!.. you'll have to do better than that Cloud" a sly smirk growing on Leon's face. The excitement cursing through his veins, pumping adrenaline into his body to lead his every action.
Cloud repositioned his stance growling lowly to himself, his focus fixed intently on the gunblader "Tsk.. alright.."
Leon approached him in a relaxed stance, sword at the ready. The unreadable expression on the older man's face was putting Cloud on edge, making relaxation and keeping a straight mind a tricky task. He could feel as his shoulders tensed and he gripped his sword more strongly. Testing Cloud's reflexes Leon responded with a telegraphed overhead motion to purposely let Cloud read him. It generated the reaction Leon wanted: Cloud instinctively raising his practice weapon to block the attack.
"Hm! Got you!" followed by a quick flurry of strikes onto Cloud as the latter defended and blocked as best he could. One hit to his right upper arm, another to his forearm, the other to his left thigh and the finishing hit directly to the top of Cloud's head.
He was completely defenceless against Leon's wrath. No mercy even in teaching...Although Cloud let out a string of muttered curses, and the hits hurt like hell, and would most probably leave a few bumps and black bruises, Cloud was actually enjoying himself.
"Urk!.. damn.." Cloud dropped to one knee still blocking until Leon's flurry ceased. He dropped his head, lowering down his shaking arms from the assault.
Smirking playfully while he approached Cloud to help him up, Leon stated "Oldest trick in the book"
Merely seconds later Leon was greeted with dirt in his eyes taking a step back trying to wipe his face as best as possible.
"Aghh!.. What?!.."
"Have you heard of that one?!" taking his chance Cloud quickly stood up, a devious smirk in place as he attacked Leon with all of his might. Leon blocked and staggered, causing him to take an unbalanced step back .
"…ugh.. Why you!" Leon circled on one foot delivering a quick yet masterful strike onto Cloud's defence, his expression readable now: Agitation.
Cloud barely avoided the hit circling around Leon, lowering his stance to strike at the brunettes stomach making a sharp sound that expressed the moral victory he while he was at it. Leon had to forcefully jump away from the swing's path, caught off balance again. Cloud taking advantage pressed on and ducked down with one leg stretched out, sweeping his opponent from under his feet
"Let's go with what always works!" shouted Cloud as his foot made contact with booth of Leon's.
Leon gritted his teeth to better endure the attack, purposefully dropping his posture, exchanging the sword to his off hand. To pin him, Cloud quickly straddled Leon while also pressing his practice sword against the older man's neck. Leon had to admit that he was really taken by surprise and yet he smiled gazing into the widening eyes above him: Cloud, had realized that Leon had managed to point his practice weapon against his chest, right where the heart is.
"Nice try Strife, nice try."
Cloud clicked his teeth then growled subtly "Damn. Thought I had you" Cloud retrieved his weapon to throw it to the side in mild frustration.
Leon chuckled lowering his own sword to the side "I'll give you points for trying"
"Thanks for the consolation…." Cloud grumbled which made Leon laugh a little
"You did good Cloud" Leon tried to cheer him up
Cloud turned to look at him with his mouth ready to say something, their eyes automatically locking with each other's. For them it never got old, it never lost its enchantment, in fact, the number of times that it happens has increased. The feeling as if gravity itself would try to pull them together while also keeping them apart.
The weight of Cloud's body felt good, the presence so close to his own was welcomed. Leon was tempted to grab Cloud by his hips to keep him in place. With crashing clarity that left him dumbfounded, Leon realized that he indeed was developing feelings for this man. He had been trying to deny it even when with each passing moment he spent with Cloud, more and more he felt the need to protect this man, to always spend more time with him…
All of this even when he knew Cloud's heart still bore the mark of another. Leon could feel it and it caused an ache that was too hard to ignore.
"Um…can-can you…please get off, Cloud?"
Said man had gone into a little trance of his own, the feel under him was strong and alluring…Staring at that face that always seemed so calm…Leon was gorgeous. Cloud swallowed hard when he found himself wanting to have a taste of those lips and touch that beautiful chocolate hair…Cloud's heart pounded faster when he started to wonder since when has he allowed such thoughts. Last time he checked, he was still dealing with his emotions over Zack; on how was he going to deal with the very cause that haunted him in the form of dark creatures eating away at his soul…
'Am I falling for him….or am I'm trying to just….' Snapping back into reality, Cloud shook his head and all but scrambled off Leon's abdomen.
"Sorry…" Cloud cleared his throat then stretched out his hand to help Leon up.
"It's fine" Leon also cleared his throat then dusted off his clothes. He had sensed both the desire and the apprehension within Cloud and both things had resonated strongly in his own heart.
There has been progress with Cloud demeanor, yes. Yet each time he felt like he was getting close to Cloud and vice versa, there was always something that shrouded a part of Cloud's heart from him. It was always the image of a dark fog. Leon felt lost on it yet felt like Cloud was just within his reach….while it also felt like the dark fog grew thicker. Leon feared for Cloud almost constantly; nothing was more frustrating that despite their efforts there was something that didn't relent the grip on Cloud's soul….and Leon's heart was despairing at that fact.
"Leon?" Leon's eyes had narrowed seemingly staring into nothing in particular, Cloud gripped the man's upper arm tight but not to hurt. The response from Leon was a few blinks, eyes slowly gaining the silvery calmness they usually held.
Not knowing what to really say, Leon shook his head subtly smiling thereupon taking a seat on the border of the fountain and leaning the wooden weapon beside him. Cloud looked at him for a little before he joined his friend, resting his own sword atop his lap.
Both chose to ignore the awkwardness between them, eventually sitting in pleasurable company, allowing for the breeze to dry their sweat and cool their heated skin. Soothing, gently chasing away the awkwardness and easing the adrenaline their training had induced.
Soon enough as he became more at ease, Cloud wondered how his little brother was doing, but he didn't know how to bring up the subject. Of course, he considered starting off with a simple question, however for some reason he thought it would be too out of nowhere. Although, Leon should expect for him to bring the subject up, out of nowhere or not…Then again, should he ask Leon? The brunette had said that the two brothers needed space….But Roxas was still his brother and Cloud actually missed having the feisty little blonde around….Did Roxas feel the same?
"Eesh, thank Hyne my Invoking doesn't involve reading your mind, otherwise I'd be going nuts here, Cloud"
Cloud turned a surprised look to his friend whom was looking at the horizon with an amused smile.
"Huh?" Cloud blinked as Leon turned his face to regard him.
"Your feelings are strong. They give me a pretty clear idea of what it is that's going through your mind." even after this explanation Cloud's eyebrows crinkled and his head tilted to the side. Leon chuckled, he really liked when Cloud did that.
"Munny for your thoughts?" Leon simply asked
Cloud exhaled through his nose, his upper body heaving with the action as he looked down at his hands that were resting on the wooden sword.
"Was just wondering…."
"About Roxas?"
Cloud nodded breathing deeply again.
"He's….more relaxed…He misses you..." Leon paused to think of the rest of his answer so as to not make Cloud feel bad. Notwithstanding Cloud took a wild guess on how Leon trailed off, having a good idea of what it entailed
"He still doesn't want to see me….I don't blame him…" Cloud hunched forward looking at the fist he had used against his brother.
"Cloud-"
"It's fine Leon. I mean, no use on denying the truth. But anyways…you said he's ok, yes?"
It was clear to Leon that Cloud didn't want to dwell in the subject. The man has recognized his mistakes and was working to mend them so really, there was no need to keep bringing up the issue. Leon nodded to Cloud's question, suddenly smirking with a huff when he remembered that morning's skirmish.
"Although…you didn't tell me of his uh….impressive 'swordsmanship'. He's got quite the skill."
Cloud scrunched his face as his way of asking Leon what did he mean to which Leon replied chuckling softly
"He's pretty good at…wielding cutlery"
Cloud face-palmed and sighed "Don't tell me he was fighting over a last piece of sweets again…"
Leon chuckled at Cloud's apparent embarrassment looking at him with an eyebrow quirked "'Again?'"
Letting his hand fall, Cloud briefly looked at the sky then shook his head helplessly with a small smile "He and Zack had the tendency to do that….it's Zack's fault." Cloud huffed fondly looking back at the memories.
The mention of Zack's name caused a strange pang in Leon's chest. He didn't want to say it was jealousy because it wasn't, he was sure. What it was however, was a heavy feeling, it made him feel a little hollow somehow. Leon reprimanded himself, he had absolutely no reason to feel that; no right.
Even though Leon pushed it aside, he didn't notice when his expression turned a bit pessimistic that even his posture slumped a little. Cloud had found weird that Leon didn't made any additional comments so he looked at the Heartinvoker to be surprised by the sudden dejected demeanor from his companion.
"Hey, are u sure u ok?" Cloud placed a gentle hand on one of Leon's shoulders, not guarding his worry at all.
That's when Leon noticed what he was doing, and for some reason he suddenly found himself incapable of looking at Cloud in the eye. Shaking his head he said "It's fine. I'm just a little tired, that's all."
Cloud searched the other's face, he wasn't a fool. He knew the face of someone masking their issues, and he knew it all too well….He'd say he was a little let down from Leon lying to him, yet Cloud could also understand him. Not wanting to dump problems on others, and wanting to deal with things without others' help…
"Well, whenever u wanna talk 'bout it…I'm all ears" he gave Leon's shoulder two strong and re-assuring pats then retrieved his hand.
Leon let out a noise in agreement, thankful for Cloud's understanding. This new development of him discovering his apparent attraction for Cloud had him a little unsettled. His mind couldn't be any more of a tease since it replayed those a little to close encounters he has had with Cloud…and when they lock gazes…
Leon felt his cheeks go warm, the thrumming in his chest increased a little so he had to take a deep breath to attempt to override the images in his head. He reached to the side to retrieve his jacket so that he could put it back on now that he was more refreshed. Before he could, he felt something in one of the pockets and reached in for the object. As soon as his hand encased it, he remembered what it was.
"Oh, by the way Cloud…." Leon said as his hand took out a box "I got something for you."
When the jewellery box was presented, Cloud tilted his head squinting his eyes questioningly at the object. He looked at Leon whom nodded, gesturing Cloud to take it and so he did. Cloud carefully opened the box to reveal what seemed to be some sort of amulet: A wolf. Cloud was immediately captivated but was also a little thrown off by it.
"A….necklace?"
Leon huffed "It's an amulet. For protection, I linked it with Griever so I'll be able to sense when you are in danger. With this, you'll always be protected….no matter how far apart we may be."
"Oh" Cloud turned to look at the silvery guardian with silent awe and he pulled it out of the box: A long silvery chain tailing the object.
"You seem to really like the mythological beast Fenrir…..or just canines in general soooo….Thought it suited you" Leon offered rubbing his neck a bit bashfully.
Cloud kept his eyes on 'Fenrir' as a small smirk spread through his face. He then looked at Leon and teasingly said
"For a moment there I thought you were going to propose to me"
The somber man known as Cloud Strife could certainly be a little cheeky bastard when he wanted to, that was becoming pretty clear. Nonetheless, Leon was completely taken off-guard by the comment hiding his surprise with a un-amused face then playfully shoved Cloud by the head. The latter chuckled as Leon's strong hand almost made him loose his balance and fall to the side. When Cloud sat straight again, some of his golden strands were messed up and he offered Leon a grateful smile.
"That's thoughtful tho. Thank you." Cloud put the chain around his neck almost instantly feeling the warm, comforting weight it offered.
"No problem."
Cloud held the amulet in his hand pursing his lips as if considering something, turning the wolf head this way and that.
"What is it?" Leon couldn't help but ask
"Do you think….we can get one for Rox too?"
"I actually thought about it…but I couldn't decide which one would fit him, so I thought it would be better if you came with me to pick out one for him."
"Sure."
"Good. The store's closed for today, but we can go tomorrow."
"Sounds good to me. In the meantime, wanna go grab some food? I'm getting hungry"
Leon grunted as he stood up "My threat"
Cloud followed "No, no. I'll pay this time. And that wasn't an offer" Cloud finished saying with finality when he saw Leon's mouth open in what he was certain was going to be a refute.
Sora and Roxas had ventured out into town, casually walking as they made idle chatter. They had bought sea salt ice cream which, to Sora's shock, Roxas had never tasted. Shortly after that Sora lead Roxas to an area near the ancient castle (that was open for the public unlike the rest of the place) simply known as The Bailey, where the teens would lean on the balcony to enjoy the sweet and salty treat.
But something was bothering Roxas. Sometime into the day, Sora's demeanor started to change: His stride had slowed, missing that small bounce his steps would always have. The Leonhart started to look drained, eyes heavy and posture slumped not radiating that energy that was so contagious to everyone and Sora's skin looked a little pale.
Roxas' eyes travelled over his peer while his mouth idly worked on the ice cream. The treat was delicious and he would have gobbled it up by now if it wasn't because his friend was worrying him. It reminded Roxas of the time Sora had been in the hospital.
"So how's the ice cream?" Sora suddenly spoke breaking Roxas out of his reverie.
"Oh! It's very good, Sora. You're gonna make me addicted to it now" Roxas grinned then took another bite out the frozen bar.
"I told ya." Sora grinned and had tried to sound cheery as usual, but the grin did not held the brightness that was so patented by the teen. Sora's tone had been too mellow for the thrilled connotation it was supposed to have.
"Sora?" Roxas spoke tentatively, only partially wondering if he should ask or not.
"Hn? Yea?" Sora looked at Roxas while his ice cream was between his teeth.
Taking another good look at the tired face erased any doubt left on Roxas' mind. "Are u feelin' ok? U seem….off"
Sora couldn't deny that he was feeling horrible, however, he had hoped that either Roxas wouldn't notice or that it was noticeable at all. Silly of him though, he admitted that he was fairly easy to read, he didn't have the gift Leon had of masking how he felt, no matter how hard Sora tried.
Sora breathed out through his nose slowly lowering the half finished blue bar from his mouth, resting the hand that held it on top of his lap. Roxas felt the change in the air between them, up until that moment it had felt gloomy if not lazy and a little draining. Now it felt thick, heavy enough to make his shoulders slump and his chest tightened with anticipation.
"Roxas…..I have something I need to tell you…"
Roxas got worried, not even blinking as he dedicated his attention to his friend. He had never heard Sora sound so serious. Sure there had been times where they had serious conversations but none of them had required Sora to look that serious; enough to rival Leon, or even Cloud's looks. That unsettled Roxas.
"You know how I told you that I can speak to departed hearts?" Sora avoided looking at Roxas for the moment too focused on trying to find ways to explain what has been going on with him.
"Yes?" Roxas drawled worriedly leaning just a little towards Sora.
"Well….you see….sometime back…I had an encounter with a heart that was troubled and refused to move on. I've been trying to help it but…Its being consumed by darkness and if something is not done soon…It'll be lost forever. I've been trying to help it but…its wearing me down…." there was guilt on those words and Roxas caught it.
"I've hidden it from the darkness, in my own heart. It's safe…at least for the moment…."
Sora was frowning but to Roxas he looked like nothing if not sad, ashamed and even frustrated. Seeing all of that made Roxas suddenly realize that Sora had been acting a little strange lately, also remembering he has found Sora completely awake in the middle of the night, lost as if in a trance.
"So….u're Invokin'….even though u're not supposed to. Is that what u're sayin'?" Roxas shot the older teen an accusatory glance. Sora risked looking at his friend, letting out a barely audible whimper as he rolled back his lower lips and looked away again.
All the answer Roxas needed, which in turn something else dawned on him at that moment.
"How long?" Roxas' expression creased further as his tone became just a little sharp. He had the feeling that there was more to this revelation.
"Since the hospital….Actually…it's because of that I ended up sick that time…."
"And you haven't told Leon about it…" it wasn't a question, Roxas knew that was the case. He looked away from Sora and towards the horizon.
Though he could understand why Roxas was accusing him, Sora couldn't help getting a little defensive. Narrowing his eyes his tone taking on a little edge of its own, Sora continued with his explanation, talking a little fast
"Roxas….this heart came to me because it couldn't reach no one else. It had tried seeking help to keep Cloud safe from-
"Wait a minute…Cloud? What does Cloud have to do with this?"
Sora realized he had gone into a small ramble, letting the information slip not quite as he had intended to. He took a deep breath, exhaled and looking at the questioning look Roxas was giving him he said
"This heart and Cloud's…they are linked….this heart was an Invoker, it shared part of itself with Cloud's heart…and that part of itself is still inside your brother…without it…it can't rest."
Roxas eyes slowly started to widen, the meaning behind Sora's words clear as to what they were getting at. While at the same time Roxas was uncertain if he was understanding right. After shaking his head once Roxas blinked at Sora asking for a confirmation with just his expression.
"Roxas….It's Zack. He's still here. And both him and Cloud are in danger"
A Heart's Passage
Well, looks like the cat's outta the bag.
'Yep. I'm sorry….I really thought I could help you on my own, but it's worse than I thought…'
Hey, don't be sorry….you're doing enough already….Sora, you should let me go.
'If I do that….you know what will happen!'
Yes, but-
'No, Zack! Cloud will get consumed too. I can hold on for a little longer….'
…
You know Leon will have your head for this right?
Sigh. 'Yeah…I'm sure he will…'
Hm….Sora-
'Don't worry Zack, I won't let the darkness take you or Cloud. I promise…'
…Thank you….Sora….
A/n: Phew! I'll admit, after the revamp I did for this story I was in quite a slump for it. I was a bit blocked as to what to write next but, here it is! I updated most of the old chapters, the most noticeable changes were chapters 1 through 3, just in case you guys want to give them a look through. Oh, and in advance, please excuse any typos or errors, feel free to point them out please!
Anyways, I hope you guys enjoy it and as per usual, thank for your time and until the next chapter! ;)