Long A/N this time. Oh my, this chapter...was hard; it did NOT want to be written-it was like trying to coax a cat out of a corner with a broomhandle. The battle scene was re-written and re-arranged so many times (and it probably shows, but I tried super hard, so at the moment, I'm not going to worry about it). Now, with the way things turned out (like the ridiculous length of this thing for instance), I will include an epilogue (psst, the happy ending you wanted) that I'll post tomorrow. It just didn't seem right cramming it in at the end. This baby could not have been done without you guys, really. I started this journey alone and look at how many people joined along the way-we finished this together! Thanks for making my first fiction such a rewarding experience!
For all the lovely people who ever reviewed: H-thar (thanks so much for your constant support, *hearts*), thewhitespirit (I listened to the piece you suggested...ended up listening to Two Steps From Hell the entire time I was brainstorming...awesome stuff), StaketheHeart, darkshifter, Winona Farplane, Revan Farron, Saccharo, The Moon's Willow, Madeline Cullen, AzureKate, LightofaNewDawn, anon and everyone else (I humbly apologize if I didn't put your name in; I shall add more later, but I'm really excited to be posting this, hehe), I hope this chapter stands up to your expectations. You know these characters as well as I do; my goal was to make it vivid as possible while still giving you the freedom to 'see' things your way...hehe, but that could've backfired *crosses fingers*
xAltaria: Oh my goodiness, I actually finished! Hope's no tonberry, but he's always cute no matter what, right? Because he's Hopekins. Thanks so much for being there; when you think there's no hope left, keep going until you find some-and struggle as I did, I managed to find some...he was sitting in front of me the whole time *giggle*
Other bits: I did use some lyrics (I added a line and left some 'the's' out) by Jimmie Davis (or Paul Rice, really it's been around for awhile, I'm not sure who the original person was); I'm sure just about everyone knows this song; it was a silly spur of the moment thing and I figured everyone would be able to hear it clearly in their head. Don't hate me, I'm not sure about the rules concerning happy holidays and Merry Christmas...I used the word Christmas...if that offends anyone, I'm sorry...I just couldn't get over how general happy holidays sounded. Random info, the chapter name comes from Clannad's OST...a sad piece and seeing as it had been snowing when Hope got kidnapped... This story has two possible oneshots (or short fictions) that I'm thinking about, but if and when they'll appear, I don't know.
No A/N will be at the end, nor will I post any in the epilogue. Leave love and comments if your heart so wishes and without further ado, I present to you this chapter.
Pulling out the middle drawer and sliding back the black lid, her hand hovered over her enkindler, going for the omega instead; sure it was slightly heavier, but it was raw power she was after. Her quiet exhales were frigid puffs. Sometime during the night, the pilot light to their propane tank had gone out, leaving them to wake in a chilly house—though flanked by living space heaters, she had no doubt been the warmest. Shoving the weapon's compact frame into the holster dangling behind her legs and making sure the pink eidolith she'd received from her incoherent trip to Asnida was in her pack, she bumped the drawer closed, quickly exiting her room.
Striding down the stairs, she cast a quick glance at Hope perched in front of the fireplace, giving a sharp tut. "Sit any closer and Snow won't have to go out for logs." In fact, what's he doing just sitting there? We have to move. "Hope." She hid a wry smile as he instantly responded to her authoritative tone, straightening up, sea-green eyes turning to hers. She made her way over, kneeling down on one leg. "You know we have to leave soon, right?"
"Y-yeah."
"I'm not even going to say it'll get harder from here on out. That's already a given. I need you to focus, Hope. Once you step out that door, you're an open target. I will keep you safe, but you have to help me. I need you to promise me you'll listen and do as I say. There'll come a time where we won't be fighting alongside each other and I have to be able to trust you. You can't let what's in here," she placed her hand over his heart and he swallowed, "cloud your judgment."
"Love's worth fighting for," he said, his voice a quiet, meek counter.
He had grown from the naïve innocence that had had him following her every order almost to a fault—he'd been through too much on his own. Fear of pain and the unknown wouldn't deter him from doing what he wanted. She knew that in the next life-or-death situation, it'd be him telling her to go. And we'd both end up dying. "Be careful that it never becomes worth dying for."
He fought to keep his eyes from brimming with tears. "So we both fight to survive," he gritted heavily. Her touch left him.
"Don't let me down," was all she said.
Wrapping a long pastel-striped scarf multiple times around her neck, trapping her hair in the process, Serah observed their quiet conversation worriedly. The front door opened and she zoomed forward, wanting her smile to be the first thing Snow saw—because then, he'd smile too.
Instead, she got a kiss and she realized she wasn't cold anymore. Snow straightened up, keeping his arm around her shoulders, squeezing her to his side. "The pilot lights fine, but there's something wrong with the thermocouple," he announced.
Lightning looked about as interested as one was in watching oil paint dry. "The point is you can't fix it."
"…No, I don't know what's—"
"That's all I need to know." She stepped forward when Hope moved past her to get to the stairs. "It doesn't matter right now. We're leaving."
Serah looked up. "Are you ready to go?" she asked. He gave her a reassuring grin, making a fist.
"Don't worry babe, I got my ass-kicking gloves. They're all I need besides you."
She clung to his arm, giving him an adoring googly-eyed stare.
Lightning stayed quiet, shifting her stance. It brought up a problem she didn't want to deal with at the moment because they didn't have the time to discuss it. Serah, you can't come to Asnida with us this time. Without the protection of an eidolon, it's too dangerous. Five people against an army…the only way to keep you safe is to make sure you aren't there. She caught Snow's eye and the way he bowed his head made her think the same thing had been going through his head.
"I'm ready..." Gloved fingers fumbled timidly with the zipper of his orange windbreaker. There would be no turning back now. The survival of his friends—his family—depended on him.
It's ok to be scared as long you know you can overcome it.
He stepped forward. "I'm ready," he repeated, his voice considerably stronger. Snow beamed.
"Proud of you, bud. Real proud."
Lightning offered a faint smile, gesturing him to her side. And you already know I am. "Then let's go."
The halls were lively as young flush-faced recruits poured in from their morning routine; each shout of exclamation had Lightning on edge. Ears tuned for any suspicious mentioning of Hope or her, she was ready to strike at a second's notice. Meeting William at the entrance, he'd given them a heads up; PSICOM was already moving in and all hell would break lose if they were spotted.
"You have an office here, right? Get him there as quick as possible. When the coast's clear, we'll bring him to room 3C in building B. Snow, I need you with me; you stick out too much."
The brawler bristled, but said nothing. Serah stroked his tense forearm. "See you in a bit, 'kay?"
Hope stumbled forward as Lightning yanked his arm. "No time for goodbyes," she muttered.
Giddy with adrenaline and powerwalking on autopilot, Serah didn't register the sudden direction change her sister issued and contorted her face against the impact of Lightning turning into her and Hope colliding with her.
"Maker's sake Serah," Lightning snapped, hands making an involuntary grab to keep the younger from falling over before giving her a light shove. "We turn right, it's down the hall."
Gee, how'd I mess up on that? "S-sorry," she mumbled, red-faced, returning Hope's friendly touch with a small smile.
Besides being empty, the only light came from a dim glow above every other door, giving the corridor an ominous atmosphere. Hope edged sideways, his arm brushing against Light's. "Why're the emergency lights on?"
She didn't look at him, seeming to tense with every step she took. "It's not from any protocols I know of, but it's not hard to guess it's a subtle way of saying this area's off limits."
"Because your office's here?" Serah ventured, tilting her head. Her sister promptly dismissed it with a shake of her head.
"I'm currently suspended—they have no reason to think I'd be here." Her keen eyes spotted the shadow of an approaching person about to round the corner at the far end of the hall and she held out her arm; her two companions freezing instantly. The younger Farron gasped and Lightning lowered her arm. The shock of bronze hair was unmistakable.
Wright smiled with surprise, heartfelt joy at the sight of the two sisters running towards him. "Girls!" He braced himself as Serah launched into him, arms around his waist and he wrapped a loose arm around her shoulders, patting her affectionately on the head. Lightning hung back, relief radiant in her eyes; Hope stood at her side, a shy smile edging at the corners of his mouth. "No tears, Serah—"
"But it was my fault you got—"
"My dear girl, how you came to that conclusion I'll never know. Hope," Wright beckoned the boy closer, "you're a brave soul. On top of that, I have something you might want to hold onto." He fished into his coat pocket, pulling out a braided cord of black, an ebony pendant knotted to hang from the middle; he understood when Hope seemed rather reluctant to take it.
"Why isn't it with…" he found himself unable to continue.
Wright kept his hand outstretched, eyebrows knitted in sorrowful pity. "After the autopsy revealed it wasn't you…they, well, disposed of the body, leaving this behind. It should be in the possession of someone who can respect its value." He set it gently into Hope's palm, switching his gaze over to the troubled woman beside him. "Lightning, were you on your way to take him to your office?"
The soldier nodded.
"Good. I'm actually in the middle of my escape—told the guards I was heading to the bathroom. Will and I have worked out a little plan to give you a head start. You need to leave Hope here for the moment; this area's teeming with PSICOM infiltrators trying to gather intel on your guys' whereabouts, there's almost no way you can travel undiscovered. Their main priority is looking for Hope—they know he's alive and they're assuming he made it to you guys. The ones searching are just grunts; if we get caught, chances are we can get out with enough slippery talk. If someone of a higher rank spots you Farron, they've got orders to detain you."
"We won't get caught," Lightning interjected steely.
"I believe you. We'll head over to building B; we've scheduled an evacuation drill. During the chaos, someone will bring Hope over." He glanced at his watch, immediately grabbing Serah's arm. I'm already late. "We have to move. Lightning, once you lock him in, catch up with us."
Serah resisted the pull slightly, stumbling in the doctor's direction. She wanted to say something, anything—leaving like that didn't feel right, but the words suddenly felt awkward in her mouth.
"Serah, it's ok," Lightning said softly before guiding Hope through the door and following him in. No reason to worry yet. She'd barely closed the door when he turned back around, burying his face in her chest.
"Light, I don't like this," he mumbled honestly. "Why can't I just go with you? W-why does there have to be a drill an-and an evacuation?"
"Hope." She eased him over to the couch, sitting down with him. We don't have time to get into this. She pulled the necklace from his clenched hand, running her thumb over the smooth sun. The weight of someone's death is never an easy burden to bear. "It's too risky." The two ends were worn and thin from their time in an enduring knot; she reached around his neck. "Here's another reason to stay strong," she said quietly. She smoothed down his hair, round eyes glimmering with their usual dormant fear of abandonment. "We're only going to be apart for a little bit. Someone will get you as soon as possible. You'll be safe here; no one can enter without the code." She chucked him lightly under the chin. "See you soon."
"O-ok…" He willed himself to stay on the couch, watching as she left quickly. The door made a reassuring double click. No problem, I can wait here… He grabbed the sun, fingers edging around its spindly rays. "I hope you don't mind, Nisha… I'll find a way to give it back."
Hand on the hilt of her weapon, she jogged lightly down the hall; she could still make out their footsteps. Just around this corner and—
"Lightning! Is that you?"
The loud whisper came from behind her and thinking all too clearly, she pivoted back, thrusting the sharp blade at Bartholomew's neck; the startled man stumbled, mouth in a stupid gape. "I-it's me," he stammered.
She cocked her head, raising an eyebrow. "Are you under the impression I've got my blade at your neck because I don't know who you are? Come on Mr. Estheim, the lighting isn't that bad." She relaxed her arms, the now-transformed gun aimed at his chest. "Make this quick."
Bartholomew pulled at his collar, swallowing heavily. "Have you seen my son? Do you know where he is? I know he's alive and they're going to kill him—he doesn't stand a chance, you have to help him!" He swallowed again when the soldier took a step closer, her menacing eyes hinting at fathoms of pure despising hatred.
"After all you put him through, you have to the nerve to ask me to help him when you as his father should be the one protecting him?"
"Don't get me wrong, I love Hope—"
Is this guy for real? "The hell you do," she snarled. "If you cared at all for that boy, you wouldn't be abandoning him every time the situation got messy. You want my help? Fine, but don't expect to ever see him again."
"W-what?"
"He doesn't need a fair-weather parent. After this little ordeal, he's mine. You ready to give him up in exchange for his well-being? Think quickly, I don't have time to waste."
He hesitated, watching the murderous glint in her eyes take a sudden dive into suppressed fury, a swirl of tragic disappointment softening them the slightest when he nodded. I don't have what it takes to match the attention you give him. "I'll…know you'll take good care of him. I can live peaceably with that."
"You shouldn't. I want you to regret this decision for the rest of your life." She shifted from her offensive stance, the gun loosely at her side. "This is the day you decided your only son wasn't even worth putting up a fight for—whether it was because you thought someone else was better equipped to handle the task doesn't matter. You don't quit being a father."
Without another word, she left him standing there, heading for the gray light of day the clear doors showed; once outside, it'd only be a matter of crossing the cement walkway before she reached the next building.
A face-down picture frame caught his attention and curious, Hope made his way over to her desk. A photograph Serah no doubt put there. Lifting it up, he met his own grinning face; the memory instantly triggered by the beach in the background. How noble... Wanting to change even the smallest fates... He understood why it'd been down. Up until a few days ago, I was 'dead'…this picture only reminded her of what she thought she lost.
Coming up with a stupid little idea and trying not to feel guilty about snooping through her stuff, the first two drawers were empty, but with the bottom one he found an unused stack of post-it notes. Ripping off the first stubborn sheet, scrawling a couple of words, he stuck it to the frame's glass, carefully laying it down again. Dropping the stack back into the drawer, his hand nudged against a pile of folders, causing them to slump to the side, revealing the bent corner a small flowery-printed envelope decorated in a little, faded, red inked hearts. I should just leave it alone. But hoping to find something out about the Lightning who still revealed very little about her personal self, he lost to temptation and delicately pulled it out, relieved to see it had never been sealed. Inside were multiple pictures and as their meaning and what they represented dawned on him, tears welled up even though he repressed the quiet urge to laugh. Stuck to the first one was a note, matching the envelope's print:
My dearest Claire and Serah,
I know lately things haven't been easy and it pains me to know that I may not be around much longer, especially since I've noticed how seldom you girls smile now. Don't let my passing signify the end of your happiness; I would never be able to leave this world knowing I've damped the radiance of my personal rays of sunshine. You two will always have each other; and yes, sometimes you guys fight, but at the end of the day, you're a constant source of love and comfort for the other. I pulled together some of my favorite photos of you—I promise you'll be smiling again after you see these.
Love,
Mom
Two teenaged sisters posed dynamically for a camera; in front of a gaping maw of a blue waterslide, clad in a two-piece bathing suit, Lightning stood, hips to one side, arms braced against the sides of the slide. Her hair cascaded over both shoulders in long drenched wavy tendrils; she had the wolfish grin of a thrill-seeker and from beneath her bangs, frosty blue eyes sparkled with an intense dominance—there was no mistaking her for Serah. Between her legs, lay her sister, her fanned hands framing her face set in a frozen squeal, elbows propping her up and probably keeping her from sliding back; water from unseen jets surrounding her.
The next picture had Hope giggling. Sitting on a white couch, bright sunlight from the window behind them, the photo taken by someone beside them: Serah's head tilted to the side,cross-eyed, puckered mouth reminiscent of fish lips; hanging over her shoulder, her older sister was licking the back of her closed hand, eyes crinkled in an innocent squint. A cat and a fish?
"At ease, lieutenant. We can forgo the formalities this time; let's get straight to business. We need to talk strategies."
Forgo formalities? Lightning straightened up slowly, blinking. Her first time meeting the four-star general and she was being told to skip the salutes? Maddox was a man of impressive height and build with dark graying hair, a short boxed beard and cold eyes so dark they appeared black. She shifted uncomfortably. "Strategies, Sir? I was under the impression we would be fighting alone."
He shook his head sternly, gesturing for Dr. Wright to have a seat with the others; the professor was the only one not at the table, being in the back at a little desk. "Things were said without my knowledge nor consent. Col. Millay has outstepped his boundaries before and with this recent disappearing act he's pulled, along with the allegations against you, I have no intention of sitting back. I've got dual motives." He gave her a sharp stare. "I have a special place in my heart for the security regiment; they keep the citizens safe, understanding that their welfare is the Guardian Corps' first priority. I feel that the least I can do is make sure they receive the same devoted protection and assistance."
Lightning fought the urge to bow and partially lost.
He chuckled. "So humble. Did you really assault Col. Millay?"
"I did, Sir."
"Were you provoked?"
"…Harassed would be a more fitting term, Sir."
Wright closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose; if he had to guess the day it happened, he'd picked the one where he found her in his office in tears.
He nodded. "Well I'll take that into consideration. I remember the mission at Asnida and we'll take that same route again. PSICOM needs to be disbanded and once that is accomplished, we can knock the Sanctum off its stilts. We have no need for either."
A shrill ringing of metal erupted; Serah jumped in her seat, Snow chuckling before good-naturedly covering his ears, letting her hide her head beneath his arm. Sazh winced at its incessant clangor; the alarm was designed to rattle nerves and raise blood pressure, calling for the need to escape and he had to ignore the 'fight or flight' signals his brain urged him to heed. Lightning only looked irritated, sitting back and crossing her arms in front of her chest.
Gen. Maddox nodded at Col. Reed. "You can inform them of the minor details while I'm gone."
Bent over the computer, Reed gave a stiff salute, quickly going back to rapidly typing. The lights in the room blinked out once, the alarm failing to resume. "There now you won't be wanting to cover your ears while I'm trying to talk…" He gave a few more clicks of the mouse and backed away, rubbing his hands together, strolling in front of the conference table. "As Lt. Farron already knows, the top two floors of this building serve as residence halls and for your safety, we've deemed it necessary to vacate them temporarily."
Snow cracked his knuckles. "Some kind of possibility we'll get attacked from the ceiling?"
"Erm no, you'll be spending the night here and things have a lesser chance of going awry if no one know is aware of your position."
"Oh."
Serah played with the end of her scarf, pulling at the bits of fringed yarn, hiding her adoring smile.
"Taking the fight to Asnida proves advantageous for both parties: you have the added bonus of reaching your l'cie state and there's no chance of the public becoming causalities. Unfortunately PSICOM has already moved the majority of its unit here—there's no way we can perform a stealth op en masse right from under their nose; it'll be a hot chase all the way."
Sazh rubbed his chin. "I take it we'll be on the first flight outta here then."
"4am to be precise—" Col. Reed stopped himself, swiveling to the opening door. Gen. Maddox stepped in, his hand resting on the silveret's shoulder. "Welcome back, hardly had the time to miss you."
"I part crowds."
Lightning hastily stood up, sending her chair back and copying Reed's salute; Hope made a beeline for her, arms encircling her torso with ardor. Slightly irked, she had a half a mind to tell him off, but the way he was clinging told her he couldn't help it. A flashback? She could only hope the general understood.
Maddox shrugged, dark eyes suggesting concern. "He got spooked on the way over here, heard a man's laughing voice." He gestured to Reed. "Have you finished? A couple of squads still need briefing."
"Almost, sir."
Sazh reached over, tapping Serah discreetly and jerking his head as he moved a seat down; comprehension lit her eyes and she tugged Snow's frayed sleeve before scooting into the chair the pilot just vacated.
"Oh sure," Snow murmured, hefting himself into the empty spot, turning back to welcome Hope with a friendly clasp on the shoulder. "How ya doin' buddy?"
"This is a battle we want to win at all costs; we'll be hitting PSICOM with everything we've got. In total we have six attack aircrafts, and a couple utility helicopters we can use in a pinch. Our main problem is going to be the transportation of soldiers; the most we can carry is 11 with 14 being the max on some of them. PSICOM's got us beat when it comes to their skyfleet, they still have one or two airships—not as big as the Palamecia, but it won't take much to decimate our ranks with those missiles. You may be only five people, but you're our heavy hitters; it'll be a priority to take those things down." Reed wiggled the flash-drive from the computer's port. "One of our Night Stalkers will be transporting you to Asnida and either myself or Col. Harvey will be here to escort you."
"It'll be real straightforward," Maddox assured with a clap of his hands. "We've done this before, only this time we'll be fighting men instead of cie'th."
William looked up from his station, but remained silent. "I wouldn't leave them out of the fray," he mumbled to himself.
"You've all got a big day tomorrow and it starts at the stroke of midnight. I believe Dr. Wright still has an announcement; Reed, get them settled after."
Wright nodded, clicking a pen. "I need to perform a couple fitness exams before you guys head off-nothing minor, a little stretching, some jumping jacks and a bit blood sampling. Should take ten minutes at the most."
"Doors are unlocked, both floors are empty, but I'd advise you to stay together and utilize the third level. Elevators are down the hall to your right. Dinner's at 1800 hours, buffet-style in the 6C lounge," Reed grinned, "get there early, it's going to be crowded. Another suggestion—use the downtime wisely; tomorrow's gonna get here soon enough."
The bronze-haired doctor stood up, placing both hands on the table. "That means try and relax," he clarified. "Laugh and I'll guarantee you'll fight better tomorrow."
"Mandatory pillow fight sounds good," Snow grinned, shaking Serah's chair.
She giggled. "Are you kidding? I'll be the first one without a pillow."
His grin faded leisurely. "Nah, I'd carry you and if anyone tried to hit you, I'd just lift you higher."
"Hey lovebirds, soldier girl and Hope already left. Let's get to it."
The décor of the room had warm tones of umber and beige: a queen-sized bed draped in a lavish chocolate duvet faced the flat-screen TV, thick curtains barred the cloud-filtered sunlight from seeping through, while caramel-shaded lamps fitted the room with an ambient glow. Lightning headed straight for the bed, crawling to claim the middle. Being in an octane-level stressed state was something she'd gotten used to; drills and missions required one to be able to function through it. It's when blocking the irrelevant comes in handy. Keeping her heart sealed tight also helped in ignoring otherwise troublesome emotions; guilt and pity couldn't slow her down and feelings of attachment couldn't leave her muddled.
But a certain silver-headed youth had worked at her heart of steel until it was a molten mess, awakening a side of her she never thought she had a right to experience. And because of it, the stress had a whole new meaning and was a lot harder to shake off—this was a personal battle for her. She wasn't fighting to once more get rid of the Sanctum and PSICOM for the good of the people—she was fighting solely for Hope. Losing was simply not an option. Because that would mean losing him. And with him would sink her heart, back into the depths of her old self; a coldhearted soldier who had no qualms about leaving the weak behind, who followed orders mercilessly and held poisonous contempt for those who did not. Someone who was not fit to protect, love or nurture. Someone I'm scared I'll be again.
Hope's voice travelled down the hall, echoed by a rambunctious Snow and she gave a quiet groan; she'd left the door open for him and Serah, not the other one. To her relief, the booming voice faded, her wall vibrating as a door ricochet off another. Good grief, he better not have made a dent. A slight chill triggered goosebumps along her arms, but with her cape draped over half her body, she felt no need to burrow under the covers. Staring at the fibers of the pillowcase for too long, she closed her eyes, detecting carpeted footsteps in the hall, but whether they were coming or going, she couldn't tell. A shy knock pulled her from the emptiness of a nap.
"Can I come in?"
She stirred, deciding not to get up. The bed dipped gently as he clambered on. Dully amused, she felt obliged to sit up. "Were you just phrasing it as a question out of politeness?" she asked dryly, watching the color in his cheeks.
"Sorry, I guess I didn't think," Hope mumbled, his eyes lowering before going up to her face. He held an envelope in his gloved hands. "I…I—sorry for going through—but…well, she wants you to smile an-and I do too," his voice shook from a mixture of nervousness and emotion. "It's good to remember the fun times." He handed her the worn envelope, her eyes recognizing it instantly. She took it. "Reminding yourself that they happened…"
Lightning thumbed over her mother's handwriting. My dearest Claire and Serah… She pressed her lips together. "Truthfully, I'd forgotten I even had this." A wry smile formed faintly. "So you went through my stuff, huh?" She started to slide the note aside, but kept it in place. She knew the pictures by heart. But glancing through them. Suddenly she felt like she didn't have a choice. Concerned at the length of silence, she looked up, immediately giving his chin a tilt; his green eyes were glassy, struggling to keep back tears. "Hey…thank you," she murmured.
"…Can you tell me about her?"
Her husband lay stretched out on the big bed, a relaxed grin on his face. "What'd they do? Nab the furniture from hotels back on Cocoon?"
Serah gave a weak laugh, moved when Snow instantly threw her a glance as if sensing that something was troubling her. He hauled himself up, leaning against the wall. "Come talk to your hero," he suggested, deep voice soothing. She joined him, sitting on her heels, wringing her hands worriedly—Snow gently clasped her small hands in his own. "Speak."
"I'm worried that Sis won't let me go." Her shoulders slumped at his sudden somber gaze. You don't think I should go either.
"Babe, it's gonna get real messy…" He pulled her closer, her dismayed demeanor punching him harder than her fist ever could. She'd been so distressed about yesterday's skirmish; tomorrow would be a thousand times worse and he didn't want her exposed to that level of gruesome violence if he could help it. But he wanted to be the one to always to support her in her decisions and this was hers. She deserves to fight.
"Snow, that's the last thing on my mind. I want to be out there with you. I want to help change…change our fate," she laughed. "I can't sit back and watch you do it for me." She gingerly clutched at the necklace around her neck. "Once is enough."
Her soft face the epitome of fragile innocence, he knew a strong soul resided behind it; her eyes glistened with its steadfast determination. She didn't have her sister's physique or experience, but the raw ability was there. I'll just do what I'll always do and keep her safe. "We need to find you a weapon."
A purplish pink tinge shadowed the blanket of impenetrable clouds, a still whisper of wind silencing everything but the sounds created by man.
Top-guided hangar door partially open to keep a circulation of fresh air, a GC mechanic stood precariously on a ladder, scanning the rotors of a helicopter, a soft rag in his hand. The routine checklist had already been performed and he was just going over the minor things: sweeping for debris, cleaning windows, etc. He eyed the PSICOM lad checking the controls of their aircraft; the young man's metal nametag Kurt sported a couple of oil stains. The tension between them had gone unremarked, each subtly trying to mind their own business while also trying to glean information.
"The breeze sure feels nice, don't it?"
He climbed off the ladder. "Yep."
"Erm…you hear anything about the kid Hope? He ain't dead, wonder where such a little thing could've gone off to."
The mechanic gave him a strange look. You think I'm stupid? "Well I heard my fair share of rumors… Kid's probably at home, hiding beneath his covers. Lt. Farron took a leave of absence to stay with him."
The young PSICOM recruit looked a little troubled. "Oh really? So they're together now?"
"Sure thing. Kid can't take care of himself; father seems to be a sorry SOB."
"…I heard she got suspended."
"I'm just the mechanic, no one tells me jack. Either way, she hasn't been here for a couple days. That much I do know. My nephew's one of her lil' trainees." He nodded at the aircraft. "Flyin' soon?"
"Uhh, I wouldn't know anything about that…"
"Well, weatherman said there's a blizzard advisory, so it'd probably be best to keep your bird in."
Kurt crawled from the pilot's seat. "What about yours? Flying?"
He gave the Night Stalker a friendly pat. "This beaut helps protect the town. Every early morning, every evening, she's in the air doing a perimeter check." He grinned. Don't worry sonny, she's not gonna be cartin' off your operation's targets.
"Oh…" The wary disappointment was evident.
"Hope, bonding time's over. You really need to go to sleep," Lightning murmured. She yawned behind her hand. She didn't mind answering his questions; it'd been a normal conversation and it was a long time since anything felt normal. And it was definitely relaxing because of the fact she didn't mind. Sure some of the things she didn't respond to, but instead of an awkward silence ensuring, he just came up with something else; emerald eyes alight with fascination at whatever she had to say. "I'm serious. Go sleep with Snow if you're going to chatter all night. Just send Serah over."
On his side of the bed, Hope peeked over the covers; from beneath a layered fringe of pink, a blue-eyed stare met his. Nothing about her face said she was going to enforce anything. He wanted her to keep talking; he wanted to know everything about her. When she entered his mind, he had more to associate her with: for some reason, he was thrilled by the fact she wasn't a picky eater; she didn't really have a favorite color, but she quietly admitted she loved the color of his eyes. "Hey Light…?" he pressed on before his dwindling courage completely slipped away, "was your first time…with someone you loved?"
What? From favorite pets to this? Lying on her stomach, chin held in her hands, a confused smile touched her lips, a slight frown and she decided to answer him honestly. "No, I…I didn't even know the guy," she confessed, lowering her head.
Dread churned in his stomach, part of him not wanting to know the reason. "How old were you?"
Hope, just stop. Her own eyes grew red and she looked away, picking at the pillowcase; pinching the excess fabric proved to be a powerful distraction. She cleared her throat quietly, tucking her hair back before looking at him. "Fifteen." She quickly looked away again when his tears started to spill over.
"Weren't you scared?" he asked in a choked voice.
Why am I still answering him? "Horrified." She traced her hand absentmindedly. And now I have to explain myself. "I didn't feel like I had a choice… Two young girls on their own in a town constantly visited by tourists…a good chance you'd get a group of crazy drunks…I felt that I couldn't protect Serah if I was still a naïve, innocent little girl myself… I had to give everything up; I had to throw away what had the risk of being taken, so there was one less thing that could leave me wrecked," she sighed, her voice low and matter-of-fact, "Went to some late-night party across town, seduced the nearest guy into bed…and that was that. No more Claire." Surprised to hear him sniffling, she nudged him as he turned his face into the pillow, silver locks falling into place. "You're so sensitive about this," she observed. "Now that I look back on it…it was a stupid thing to do, but…it gave me a twisted sense of peace." She forced a grim smile. "Not so amazing anymore, am I?"
There was a rustle of blankets and she was suddenly clumsily embraced; an arm over her back, the other around her neck, her shoulder digging in his collarbone. "You're a self-sacrificing angel, Light." His grip tightened and she looked at him bewildered, their noses brushing. "I love you Lightning. I'm sorry I didn't tell you the moment I met you. I'm sorry I didn't tell you when you felt all alone, when you were hurting and afraid. But I'll make up for it, I swear."
She couldn't fight the burn behind her eyes, the heat radiating from her overwhelmed heart too much. "W-what? Maker, you need to go to sleep," she laughed shakily, kissing his tear-streaked cheek. She turned to her side, holding him tightly, feverishly stroking his shoulder blades. She wanted to tell him those three words she thought would never affect her; she wanted to say them over and over, but she couldn't get one syllable to leave her mouth and she shook with the frustration. Why?
He was torn about her obvious distress and he tried to calm her, gently clinging to her form, but the buoyant relief threatened to overturn him and he was worried he'd laugh out of pure teary bliss. He had nothing to hide from her; she knew exactly how he felt. She didn't have to tell him anything; if she didn't love him just yet, whatever she did feel for him was enough. What matters is that she knows I love her. He wound his fingers through her hair, craning his neck back to give her a tiny kiss beneath her chin.
"I'm not scared anymore," he whispered. "I'm ready for tomorrow."
"Here you go, Total Eclipses oiled, loaded and ready to go," said the helpful attendant. She handed Sazh his pistols back along with a small, compact pouch. "And these here are specialty bullets, for when you want to put a little spin on things. You can be confident about shooting long distances if the occasion calls for it." Her short brown hair swayed as she gave a cheerful smile, bowing. "Zeya at your service, need anything else please don't hesitate to ask and I really mean it."
"Appreciate it," Sazh responded, unable to share her enthusiasm. A grave tension filled the small armory room and no amount of spunk could lift it. Slipping his weapons into the holsters, he cast an interested eye in the pink-haired soldier's direction. She was standing by the bolted table, sorting out favorable combat knives.
"Lt. Farron? Here are the bullets you requested—frangibility guaranteed."
Sliding her survival knife up her skirt into the black band around her thigh and making sure the dagger was attached securely to its breakaway sheath in her boot, Lightning straightened up, accepting the pack of bullets and fitting them into her maroon pack. "Thanks." Her forte lay in close-quarter combat and while she had no problem killing distance with a gun, she needed to make sure all bullets stopped once they hit their target. In this situation, friendly fire's too much of a risk.
Zeya leaned down to eye-level with the quiet teenager. "Anything for you, hon? We don't have too many boomerangs, but I'm sure you've got exceptional aim—shurikens, tomahawks?"
Hope shook his head, clasping his hands together nervously. "I don't think I'll need a weapon…" He looked up when Lightning came to stand at his side. He smiled uncertainly. "All I need is her."
Zeya beamed, missing his meaning. "Aw, well that sure is sweet!"
The armored steel door ascended slowly and Snow walked in, Serah trailing after with a male attendant bringing up the rear.
"After giving her a quick consultation, there isn't much I can recommend that would be helpful at this time," the specialist remarked.
Lightning placed a hand on her hip. "Finding her a weapon was never the point. She doesn't know how to fight." She looked directly at her sister. "Serah, you've never killed anything. You weren't a l'cie long to awaken any magic and who knows if you'll ever be able to. It's too dangerous for you."
"I'm not staying here, Claire."
"A bow would enable her to stay a safe distance away," he interjected passively.
Lightning crossed her arms in front of her chest. "She's never shot one before. Now's not the time to learn."
"Sis, she can't stay here—she'll fret until there's nothing left. She wants to fight; believe in her, something will happen," Snow insisted.
"I can use Leviathan… I have a feeling he's still with me," Serah said, wrapping delicate fingers around her wrist. She remembered how the shore's water had reacted to her; her wrist had been marked with a liquid bracelet.
"Serah, as your older sister, I'm asking you to stay here."
"And as a younger sister who loves you beyond imagination, I respect your wish, but I need to do this. For Hope. For everyone. You can get mad, but…I'm going. I'll show you I can fight alongside you."
Hope gently brushed his hand against hers and Lightning sighed, rolling her eyes. Serah, don't make me regret this. I'll never be able to live with myself if something happened to you. "Get her the bow and Serah? If you can summon Leviathan, shoot from him and try to aim where you can't miss. I don't want to see any of my comrades with an arrow sticking from them."
"Got it!" Serah giggled with giddy excitement, turning to beam at Snow, who wrapped an arm around her shoulders. Her smile faltered when Lightning walked past her, leaving the room. Hope stared after her, puzzled.
"Don't worry, Sis is probably real worried she might've made the wrong decision. You just gotta prove her wrong, little archer," Snow grinned.
Sazh jogged to catch up, a translucent reflection running along with him in the dark wide windows. "Hey soldier-girl, not looking too bright-eyed I noticed," he said after he caught up. She threw him a sidelong glance.
"Maybe I'm a little too bright-eyed, everything is just so… I feel like if one thing goes wrong, it'll all go to hell."
He nodded. "It's because there's a lot weighing on the outcome of this, there'll be no partial victory—winner takes all. I understand though. We're tied in this together, but it hits closer to home for you. First it was Serah and now it's Hope. Let's state the obvious, you need those two more than you'll ever need Snow or I."
They took a left, still travelling down the semi-glass corridor, heading for the hangar. "How could such a sweet boy have a repulsive father?" she mused lowly.
"Wha?" Sazh shot her a look.
"Do you think I have any right keeping a father from his son?"
Oh I get it… "…I don't think Bartholomew wants to be a bad father, but when it comes to parenting, the guy's more clueless than most—in a way that's extremely harmful to Hope. I mean the kid lost a loving parent and he's stuck with one who doesn't know what he's doing and therefore comes across like he doesn't care." He sighed. "Or really, one who's too engrossed with work to think long enough on what's best for his son." Sure hope I'm not doing the same thing. Nah, just fighting for another child. Any man would do the same in my position. He clapped her lightly on the shoulder. "Either way, if it's support you're looking for, as a father, you've got it from me. You're doing right with that boy."
The door to the hangar burst open, a paranoid official waving them in. "Lt. Farron, good to see you, but we need to hustle. Chopper's already waiting—where're the others?"
Lightning turned around, spotting the rest of the group down the corridor. She beckoned them with a sharp gesture, the three breaking into a run. "On your toes from here on out."
Struggling against the blustery whipping wind of the helicopter's deafening rotors combined with a fierce gust from Mother Nature, Serah put her head down, aided by Snow's hand. It'd been a little past three the last time she'd looked at the clock and the sky was still dotted with night stars.
Breaking into a cold sweat, Hope's stomach tightened and he swallowed repeatedly to keep the small amount of breakfast he'd been able to eat down. This is it. No turning back. He almost succumbed to the nausea bubbling inside him as anxiety reared its ugly head and he worried he wouldn't be able draw on the guardian energy. Everyone's counting on me, this battle will be over before it even starts if I'm incapable. A bone-chilling breeze rushed in as Snow and Serah climbed in. Blue-gloved hands tightened the black harness he was in, giving the straps a sharp tug before she released them, satisfied. He looked up into her eyes; reading the rising panic-tinged dread in them, she cradled his face, slipping one hand under the safety restraint to press against his chest. His heart pounded rapidly against her hand; concerned, she leaned closer, her words bringing a tiny smile to his lips. "You shouldn't have left without closing your jacket. Do it the next time you have a chance."
"I'd like to take this time to make sure everyone is indeed fastened securely, we will be on our way momentarily. A quick heads-up, there will be some turbulence, air currents are quite strong. In the event of a chase, which we just might luck out in, I'd prefer everyone to stay calm and let me do my job."
Snow grinned, rubbing his wife's knee. "Ready baby?"
She flashed one back, eyes still vibrant with worry. "Sure am." Snow gave Hope a thumbs-up.
"Fighting for your freedom, kid. Let's kick some butt, alright?"
Sazh leaned his head back. "Shouldn't have drank so much coffee," he groaned.
"Requesting permission to take off."
"…Permission granted. Good luck."
A shaky lift off, gasps filling the cabin when the helicopter veered to the right before righting itself. Vibrations rattled the aircraft's frame, the noise a constant buffeting thrum; Hope squeezed the cool hand, closing his eyes. His heart skipped a beat when his mother's last words rang through his head like a gentle embrace. Don't worry.
"ETA forty-five minutes."
Squinting against incredible eye-watering wind, Snow wrapped the thick rope around his forearm, holding it taunt, squatting and bracing himself. Serah clung to his side, looking up. "Hope's coming down next!" she shouted.
The rope swayed, the silveret plunging down. Snow held on, letting go at the last available second, the rope becoming a plaything for the wind, stepping forward to catch the boy. "Gotcha!"
"Light's next!" she said.
Snow's eyes widened when the rope was handed to him by no other than Nix; Stiria circling them protectively. "Alright! Didn't even feel you guys coming!" Once more wrapping it around, he pulled the rope taunt. A powerful gust knocked the helicopter forward and Snow let out a growl as his body flung forward, chest landing harshly on the crystalized ground.
Hope followed helplessly. "Watch out!" he cried, sounding pathetic as Lightning plummeted through the air, already turning her body to best absorb the impact. An abrupt shockwave of air forced them back, a golden blur alighting before them; Lightning cradled safe in her heavenly knight's arms.
"Nice catch," she murmured dryly. He lowered her down gently and she jumped nimbly from his hands.
I cannot not sense the tides. The Goddess withholds and waits; it is the protector of mankind who shall dictate this conflict and he alone who determines its outcome.
Lightning stepped forward, placing a hand on Hope's shoulder, receiving a questioning tilt of the head. "He's ready," she said confidently.
Crystal shattered as Brynhildr clattered to the earth, gracefully slipping and going down into a kneel, releasing Sazh. The older man whooshed out his breath. "That's some wind, let me tell ya."
"Not as bad down here," Lightning observed, looking up.
"Pilot said reinforcements were already on their way. In fact…" He turned around, spotting the two choppers: another black one passing the one that just dropped them off. "Here comes one now."
Snow whistled. "Well would you look at this place."
From a desolate shore covered in the broken bleached bones of humans and monsters alike with a cliff-face that concealed the haunted labyrinth within to an eerie palace of purified white, shimmery crystal, it was now a mixture of both, gaping patches of bare ground and rock, exposing once more the cursed remains of the fallen. The great pillar, the monument that stood for sacrifice, had disappeared. A few stubborn snowflakes drifted down from the dark overcast sky.
Serah wandered with anxious anticipation to the shore. Please, grant me your strength and protection once more; this shred of hope around my wrist is all I cling to. The others watched, breathes held. She crouched down, slipping her hand into the water. Leviathan? The water continued to lap gently, unaffected. Her hand grew numb as the minutes passed and she slid down to her knees.
Snow placed his hands on his head, somberly kicking free a couple loose bones.
Soft cries broke the silence as Serah hunched over, her ponytail of blossom pink hair dipping into the frigid water.
Serah… Lightning stepped forward, kneeling down, putting her hand gingerly on her younger sister's back. Serah turned her, heart-shaped face scrunched up. "I'm sorry Claire…I thought…I thought he'd come back."
She opened her arms, letting her cry onto her shoulder. "It's ok, don't worry about it." How will she stay safe now? I can't spread myself too thin. She cradled the back of her head. "We'll still get through this."
"You're not mad?" came the hesitant sniffle.
Sadness crept into her heart. "This isn't your fault. Neither is it Leviathan's. Be strong, Serah." Lightning held her still as she pulled away and stood up. "We need to scout the area."
Snow cracked his knuckles, rolling his shoulders back. "Me and Shiva can easily cover the shore; Serah can help too—can't you babe?" he called over, his voice slightly boastful.
She scrambled to her feet. "Definitely." She tried not to look crestfallen, awkwardly holding the black and silver bow like one might a large blade.
"Hope and I will take the plateau; from there, I'll canvass the tunnels and he'll be the lookout." She glanced at the silveret. "You ok with that?"
He gave a flustered grin, zipping up his black jacket. "Y-yeah, I guess."
Snow chuckled. "Light's got it all figured out."
"She sure does," Sazh agreed. "Why don't you let me take care of the tunnels? Remember, nothing but plains up there. Hope's gonna need some help—"
"I can handle it," Hope countered, a little too defensively, narrowing his eyes. If Light gave it to him, he could do it. This wasn't the time to doubt him.
Lightning rolled her eyes, stepping backwards and turning slightly to hoist herself onto the horse Odin had stealthily transformed into. He's right. The area's too large for one person. "Hope." She held down her arm. "Get on."
Snow strolled over, slapping the metal rump with a grin. "Let's go wild and wrap this up quickly."
"Don't touch my eidolon's butt," she chastised deadpan. Serah covered her mouth, shoulders shaking with laughter. "Take care of my sister, hero." With that, the steed shot off, galloping along the shore until it could climb the steep bank.
Snow toyed with the zipper on his glove, a bemused crooked smile on his face. "Your sister's kinda…"
"A tad bawdy?" Serah giggled. "You'd be surprised; she's not vulgar, but she'll say things in the frankest way and usually only as a response." She reddened. Like all those awkward times I walk in on her changing…
"Like what?" Snow laughed, grabbing her arms and pushing her backwards. "You were mumbling—didn't quite catch it."
Sazh shook his head, heading back out the carved entrance. Brynhildr stood up from her crouch. "Not gonna work, it'll be too tight of a fit."
Another way perhaps?
Sazh rubbed his beard. Well, there was that big cave-in last time—fell right through the ground. "Head on up to the steppe. I don't remember how far it is, but there's a pretty big drop-in."
Metal hooves clopped rhythmically across hardened highland. A red hotrod zipped past them. Iron-gray clouds boiled across the sky, writhing in silent turmoil; an uneasy stillness hung in the air, the motionless wind suspended in time. The majestic horse slowed to a stop; Lightning gave a slight nudge with her knee, arms clasping around her suddenly when the gait turned into an agitated, sideways trot.
"Something wrong?" Hope asked.
Lightning squinted, leaning forward. In the distance, a dark horizon revealed the crystal's limitation. "I don't see anyone or anything." She swung a leg over and jumped down, ignoring the restless neigh. A few seconds later, Hope joined her, his face paling. He glanced at Odin, whose lowered head still towered over him; the glow of multiple eyes stared back.
"Light?"
"Mhm…" Her gaze had already into a lethal glower, her hand pulling her gunblade from its case. Horizons didn't move.
He spotted the telltale bubbles before the masked heads emerged. "Serah, get away from the water!" Snow shouted suddenly—Stiria already in the process of whisking the young woman back. "Trying to sneak up on us?" He directed a fist into an open hand. "What a bunch of noobs," he taunted, his voice a sadistic growl. He punched the air, grinning. "Freeze 'em up babies!"
The ice queens glided forward, slamming coldblooded hands into the water, blizzaga radiating in a flash from their fingertips. Charging between them, Snow slid out onto the ice, reaching out to grab the helmet of a struggling PSICOM soldier, giving his neck a mortal twist and effectively propelling himself around before the body slumped from the waist up.
"What're you waiting for, we can still fire!" the commander shouted, watching his men as they thrashed in vain, using the butt of their guns to rather frantically try and attempt to break through the frozen water they were imprisoned in.
"Oh no you can't," the brawler gritted, yanking the closet weapon away, the Shiva sisters following suit.
"We order you to surrender!" one shouted feebly. "We're just the scouts; you'll pay for your crimes!"
"Impossible—don't tell my wife, but I'm broke. Which reminds me…" Snow skated away, spinning around to face a flabbergasted Serah. C'mon, you can do this. "Gentleman, I want you to meet my little tigress. Time for some target practice!"
Her heart dropped and she gasped, knees knocking pitifully. She looked at Snow; his talk had been tainted with dark humor, but his eyes took no part in the morbid mirth. He knew exactly what she was going through and he was pushing her past it. I have to do this. She swallowed; eyes widening when the soldier in the middle hastily pulled out a silver handgun, aiming it at her husband. NO! In a flash, the bow went up, steel string brushing her cheek before being released with a swift twang.
Delivering a crushing blow, the massive eidolon wielded his double-sided sword, swinging it into a wave of hissing cie'th, rotating his giant shield to charge forward, creating a path for his nimble master to fight.
"Hiyaaah!" She tore through gray-fleshed resistance, springing into a backflip to avoid the clumsy, but head-crushing swipe of the mutant monster; its frothing mouth stretched in a gaping oval, a blackened eye ogling her from a deformed head. It let out a wallowing wail, arching back, its anguished pain tearing a raspy cry from the soldier's lips. She covered her ears, lowering her stance, determined to not let it immobilize her. "You're going to have to scream louder than that!"
All around him hulking ashen bodies lumbered by, their fast pace suggesting a response to some dire calling. Dying groans jumbled the mind and disorientated, Hope stumbled just in time to miss getting hit. Seeming to have been an unintentional lob, the cie'th continued onward. They're all ignoring me... But what about Lightning? Quickly threading his way through, dodging disproportioned limbs and the occasional club, he caught a fleeting glimpse of red from her cape and lunged in the direction, breaking into the clearing.
"Hope!" Relief flooded her eyes when she saw him, blood trickling from her temple; raising an arm, she brought it down sharply, an electrifying flash of searing white as lightning jolted erratically around them, effectively subduing the surrounding monsters. They just keep coming—at this rate, I'll never get to the others.
"Watch out!" Hope cried.
A shadow loomed over her and obeying her instincts, she instantly dropped into a crouch, bringing her gunblade protectively over her head, eyes locked onto the target preparing to strike her; muscles tensed to dodge at the last second, she never got the chance as black sparks erupted from the cie'th's ghastly skin and it crumbled to the ground, its single eye wide open.
Hope lowered his arm, looking fearfully at Lightning. I don't even know what that was…
She stood up, risking a smile. Good job. "I'm fine. But we have another problem."
As if suddenly noticing Hope for the first time, all the nearby cie'th had begun to gather around them. He stepped back, bumping into her shoulder; the steady clashing of Odin's blade sounded in the distance. I can make this quick. I just have to do it. His hand found hers, intertwining their fingers. It wasn't like performing firaga or thundaga—spells that he could easily cast without harming allies; this, he had to give a radius while concentrating on areas that would remain immune. "Don't move," he said quietly.
Her heart pounding heavily, brightly-colored dots flared before her vision and she fought to stay upright.
Coughing, Sazh tried to wave the dust away, shielding his eyes from the crumbling earthen roof. Man, battle's already in full-swing. The trampling and stomping from what had to be an army in the thousands created a dull, rib-rattling roar. His eyesight wasn't so good in the dark and the dirty lanterns kept most of the flames' light to themselves. Don't seem like anything's hiding in here, so I best get out there and throw my weight around.
"I'ma comin' Brynhildr," he said, choking on dry air. "Damn, I gotta get out here." Hands his sensory eyes, he kept them on the walls, jerking away he came into contact with rough sandpaper feel of rusty iron. "What have we here—a door?" Before he could test its sturdiness, an indistinct click, like someone lifting a lock that had been jammed, made him pause. The ground beneath his feet had changed in vibration; rocks and clumps of dirt jittered around—not from anything above, but from something thundering down the tunnel.
"Oh sweet Etro, let me run faster than whatever's back there!" He took off, green jacket flapping behind him.
"Status report."
The pilot moved the microphone closer to his mouth, circling the peninsula. "Looks pretty crowded, sir. Air traffic's pretty bad too. Both sides suffering heavy casualties. Requesting rescue teams to start their flight. Cie'th appear to be pouring from the plains and the mouth of the cave, I reckon their numbers are in the thousands."
"Roger that. RT-7 on its way. Set up a safety zone."
"A safety zone? There's no feasible way; sir, it's crowded. I have no way to let our side know—"
"Fire at the hostiles; friend and foe alike will clear the area."
He sighed resignedly. "Yes sir." He flipped a black lid, grabbing the red-topped controller.
Hope stood in the middle of the field, hordes of strange cie'th eddying around him—strange because they didn't belong. His arms were limp at his sides, pale eyes unfocused and unseeing. Something different was approaching, something a lot more powerful than in just the physical sense. It had intent—not like the brainless monsters fighting on pure nature-given instincts. He could feel it inside him; the aroused adrenaline, alighting urges of a hidden alpha. Because whatever was coming, it meant to challenge him. His lip curled back, a deep snarl resonating in the back of his throat.
My young master, be wary of that which compels you to unleash so catastrophically. This act cannot be taken back without due consequences.
Alexander's golden warmth faded and he shivered, a painful ripple up his spine forcing him to arch his small frame; a childish cry for help swallowed by a guttural growl. Glowing rings circled his irises, centering on the advancing quadrupedal beast.
Colossal muscles rolling beneath sinewy skin, it had the gray cast of a cie'th, but the smooth stalk of a feline; red beady eyes surrounded by black, an agape fixed jaw from which long curved gleaming incisors protruded. Its thick tail, twice the length of its body, sheathed in large overlapping scales, swished to the side; a venomous green fluid dripping from the needle-like tip.
Finishing a fatal swing of her omega blade, Lightning felled the ghast in her way with a frown, entering the sudden clearing. What the…? Her blue eyes doubled in size at the monstrous creature, cold horror paralyzing her. Where's…where's Hope? Turning to scan the masses behind her, a glimpse of silver made her swivel back with utter shock. He was standing in the middle of the beast's path. "HOPE! Get BACK!" Her heart constricted painfully with disbelief as a cruel transformation began to take place.
A hideous snap of bones allowed the rapid lengthening of spindly arms, Hope falling to his knees, head to the ground, eyes shut tight as sharp ridges rose from his back, breaking through his jacket, ripping the garment from his torso, pale wings stretching to connect to the sides of his arms, two hooked claws forming at the ends.
Lightning tried to rush forward at his shrill cry of agony, but her legs wouldn't move and she could only watch desperately, unable to look away. Shoulders had broadened to accommodate his wingspan; the wings were awkwardly positioned because instead of sprouting from his back, they had moved to his sides, similar to the nelapsi. She found herself shaking when he stood upright on powerful hind legs, large talons digging into the rock quartz of the ground; from inside his wolfish muzzle, were tiny pricks of white, razor sharp, teeth. Silvery fur travelled down his chest, a wild mane ending a quarter down his back. A deepened growl reverberated from his throat, his pointed ears flattened against his head.
The opposing four-legged cie'th rumbled in response and started a loping charge. After Hope's initial movements, Lightning felt her heart falter, realizing that no matter what he was, he was still just a boy. Despite his larger frame, he didn't have the muscles the monster barreling towards him had and as he gave another threatening snarl, his teeth were sharper, but they were milk teeth all the same.
Unfamiliar with his new proportions, his first step was wobbly and his wings too thin to support the weight of his lower half. He lowered himself down, attempting to use the cartilage of his wings as forearms. A tear trickled down her dirty cheek, watching him struggle.
His first lunge ended with a horrible snapping and he yelped, head crashing to the ground, quickly working his haunches to pull himself back. He leaned up just in time, snapping his jaws at the thick neck of the feline cie'th.
"Hope!" She tried again to move and this time, her legs responded—until Odin galloped in front of her, cutting her off.
This is a battle you cannot aide him in. Come and let us rid this earth of those whose foul hearts only beat to harm the innocent.
Atop her cantering steed, Lightning gritted her teeth, hands against his neck as he leapt from the cliff's edge.
Hope Light's alright…been awhile since I saw her go in. He glanced at the chiseled archway in the foothill before hearing a loud curse from Snow who'd fallen on the ice. He chortled, throwing a fistful in his direction, the red glow of haste enveloping him. "Show 'em up! No time to waste!"
"Thanks old man!" he shouted over his shoulder. His mind was in overdrive; eyes scanning the soldiers around him, fists flying at the ones not cloaked in uniforms of yellow and white. A light touch of cold touched his cheeks and he wiped the snow off, grinning. "Alright, I'm in my element! Just in time too, 'cause I'm kinda HOT! Hey four eyes, why don't you come at me?"
Whistling a jazzy little tune, Sazh snapped a dazzle of Enthunder on the red Valkyrie knight as she slashed into her enemies. "How's about a little spark in your step, girl?" he encouraged, giving his pistols a flaming zest. He stared at the ruby crystal in the taxim's chest before shooting at it. "Hey Snow," he called out curiously.
"Yeah?" Snow grabbed ahold of a frostbitten raider's breast plate, slamming the soldier down into his knee, tossing him to the ground.
"Don't these cie'th look a lil' familiar?"
"Sure as hell they do," he responded, easily blocking a swipe from one. He hesitated, grin fading. They did. And not from the last battle, but their journey as l'cie. "Aw crap, what does that mean?"
There was a slight reprieve from the monsters inside the immediate entrance of the cave's narrow mouth, but its tight space made evading difficult and after half an hour of strenuous gladiatorial combat, Lightning's weapon had been knocked away. Not many in her division could wield a gunblade as well as her, but the colonel proved to be a hard-hitting opponent. Millay leered at her, his hands tightly gripping her smaller ones, working slowly to break her locked wrists. "How does it feel to be caught in such a power struggle? Knowing you're going to lose?"
Drenched in sweat, pink tangles plastered to the sides of her bloodied face and neck, her strength deliberately being zapped as she exerted all she had, resisting the urge to relieve the pressure by collapsing to her knees. He had obviously known about the scar on her waist because the first thing he'd done was cut into it. The stress on her right wrist suddenly intensified and she gnashed her teeth, determined to not make a sound as a tiny crack shot daggers of debilitating pain up her vital arm. "I don't know what you're talking about," she rasped harshly.
"Oh really? So this," he yanked her right arm forward, eagerly giving the wrist a sharp twist, grinning sadistically at her open-mouthed gasp, "isn't your dominant hand? Well that's good to hear. I suspect Hope looks a little different now, doesn't he? I'll admit, I don't know much about him, but he's not the only monster up there."
She breathed harshly through clenched teeth. "That another one of Angeal's pets?" she spat. He laughed.
"That? No, it's no pet. That lieutenant, is an ex-guardian—one who failed and in his despair, succumbed to becoming a beast in order to forget his past life. You could," his sinister smile form slowly, "put him in the category of the Undying. And the arrival of a new guardian has prompted warped memories and he no doubt believes he is the rightful protector."
An Undying? They were extraordinarily powerful—did Hope have it in him to defeat one on his own? "But he's not."
"No. Though that doesn't make him any less dangerous for that bumbling newborn." A glare reflected in his eyes. "If you would've let Angeal finish his job…" He grinned. "Well, he would've killed him after anyway."
Pushing back with the force she could muster, she kneed him in the groin. Her hands were free in an instant—he doubled over slightly, trying to fight against it, but the lowered height was enough for her and she grabbed his shoulders, smashing his face against her knee, lifting her arm and driving her elbow into his back. He collapsed onto his stomach and after a quick debilitating kick to the neck, she straddled his back, grabbing a fistful of black hair with her left hand and yanking his head back. Pulling out her survival knife took excruciating effort, but the savage thirst for his blood blocked the pain from her mind.
Dazed and wheezing, he tried to turn away; she grabbed his chin, forcing him to look at the blade. "Oh no you don't," she sang. "I want to try something different this time. I'm not one for delaying deaths, but for Hope's sake…you deserve so much more and trust me, I want to give it to you." She leaned down, snarling. "How's that for 'sexual tension'?" She traced the tip of the small weapon along his jugular. "Alpha female." She snorted. "No need for labels—'Farron' says it all."
Gray eyes flashed with fear.
The sun a mere glowing orb behind the league of clouds, its position indicated noon and the battle wore on, combatants slugging with draining strength. Bodies of the dead littered the ground and were being continuously stepped on and tripped over; slippery crystal coated with ruby blood brought death to many as most never had the chance to get up again.
Further down the battlefield, an exhausted Serah released another frosted arrow; cool arms snaked around her chest and waist and she blinked, staring through a thick layer of blue ice not a moment too soon as the shield endured the volley of bullets sprayed against it. A swift metal kick and Stiria shattered the wall, guiding her over the ice chunks in search of a safer place.
"Time to hasten your end!"
Lightning! Serah wiggled her hand free, whipping around frantically, but all she saw was a continuous ocean of black armor, steel and disconcerting deformed arms. "Light!" she cried, her voice lost in the chaotic miasma of wracking clanks, gunfire and dying screams; the thrumming whir of aircrafts a backdrop of white noise. But she'd heard her sister and she had to be somewhere close by. "Light!" she called again, backtracking when her foot plunged into cold water. I can't even see where I'm going! An elbow crashed into her shoulder and she was shoved splashing back into the water.
"Watch out! There's a girl behind you!"
"She's the enemy—just like you are!"
Shots being fired, she whipped around, flinching as warm wetness spattered her face, a Guardian Corps soldier dropping into the shallow water in front of her. He just… She broke down, relinquishing her knuckle-white grip on the bow, darting away thoughtlessly.
Pushing through the throngs of soldiers, water dripping from her bangs into her eyes, her weight pitched forward and she fell amidst a tangle of limp limbs; sniffling, she wiped her hair back, eyes zeroing in on her bloody hand. With a scrunched mouth, eyebrows knitting in a delicate frown, she curled her fingers in, finally staring down into the wide glazed eyes of an impaled corpse in front of her. A decaying seeker groped blindly over him. She blinked, inching herself back. Head swiveling, she glanced at her sides and slowly covered her head. "Aaaaahhhhhhh!"
A black chopper hovered dangerously close, stirring up a windstorm. A torn piece of her cape looped and tied tightly around her wrist, Lightning hurriedly pulled the blade back in on itself, holding an arm above her head; it was a cry she barely heard, but one her heart recgonized. "Seraahhh!"
Fighting momentarily semi-ceased as humans tried to hold onto something stable and she used it to plunge through the troops. Following a faint string of intuition, she lowered her gaze, scanning the ground, sloshing unexpectedly through slushy snow. The tide hadn't risen. "Serah!"
Surrounded in a fluctuating dome of flowing water, curled up, hugging her knees, pink head tucked into the safety of her arms, sat the motionless little figure of her sister.
Every step was a lunge, automatically swerving to avoid the downward strike from a grooved blade. Arm outstretched, her fingers met liquid resistance, a cool tug practically wrenching her within the barrier. Her sodden uniform clung to her skin and she dropped to her knees, working feverishly to pull at her sister's arms. "Serah!"
Her side ponytail loose, embellished black hair-tie pushed down; round pale-blue eyes quaked with fear, stunned into blank submission. Being covered in blood probably isn't calming her any. But there was nothing Lightning could do about her appearance and she cupped her face, stroking cold cheeks, bringing her closer, holding her head to her chest. "You're alright now, you're ok." Rocking her gently, she patted the pink mop of hair, hugging skinny shoulders.
"Sis?"
"I'm here."
Serah wrapped her arms around her, trying to close her eyes, but even shut, she couldn't stop seeing the mutilated dead. Shame crushed her already-weakened spirit. She had failed; she had been set to show everyone she could handle the pressure, the emotional turmoil she knew it would wrack—her sister and the others made it look so easy, she didn't expect to not be able to handle it. …Once again I'm only a burden. She trembled, absentmindedly watching the bloodshed through the blurry wall of water. She needed a comforting spell to keep herself going. "Claire…will you sing? The one mom always sang?"
Lightning paused, the shadow of a large red helicopter drawing her attention upwards; losing altitude, it circled and she saw the green cross painted on its tail. "Serah…"
"Please?"
She sighed, resting her hand on her shoulder, caressing the damp fabric. "You are my sunshine, my only sunshine… You make me happy…" Hovering over a short distance from the shore, two medics leapt into the water, instantly disappearing from sight; a basket was lowered in after them. "When skies are gray… Don't worry, I'll always be there…" She gently broke the embrace. "Leviathan, take her to the rescue team."
Serah's eyes widened as if the mysticalness of the dome had only just dawned on her, but they quickly became clouded with fear. I'm ok now! "Hey, I don't want—"
"You'll never know dear, how much I love you…" And with that, she stood up, taking a step backwards, far-reaching waves crashing onto the shore, receding with Serah struggling from within her little defensive orb.
I'm sorry, but with you out of harm's way, I can focus on staying alive and making sure we all come home.
Navigating mostly on a keen sense of smell, the dim glow of his eyes inverted his perception of color and depth, turning the absolute darkness of the underground into fluctuating walls of gray-shaded brightness. Lungs in a protective state of paralysis, he growled throatily, snapping his head back and forth, gnashing viciously; frozen clay of the earth gave easily under his fury thrashes of claws and talons, wiggling his massive body for room. Even as the ton weight of the old tunnel system collapsed around him, pinning him down, Hope created his own impossibly narrow paths, forcibly breaking and rearranging cartilage to fit until he could smell the frigid surface just a few feet above. He paused, bunching tense muscles as he prepared to attack.
Pink tresses, partially frozen, swinging stiffly, Lightning pivoted, raising her leg to kick, catching the enemy in the throat; as he stumbled back, choking, she utilized her gun, finishing him off with a few rounds. She scanned the area, eyes peeled for rising ground. Damn it, where is he? Her plan was to stay on the plateau while Hope was still fighting, especially since the twisted ghouls latched onto him whenever he appeared.
Pacing restlessly and avoiding the burrows in the ground, the giant Undying didn't pose a threat to her, for it seemed solely interested in his silver adversary. Grievous wounds had been clawed into thick muscle, slimy skin oozing congealed blackened blood. It doesn't look like he'll last much longer.
A groan alerting her of the presence behind her, she jumped forward, facing a rugged taxim. Tremors rumbled beneath her feet and she fought to keep her balance, catching a flash of light erupting from the ground.
The grunts and snarls of a scuffle ensued and Lightning feared the worst. They've got him!
"Odin!" she cried hoarsely, dodging a wild swing—the next one got her square in the stomach, launching her up. Suddenly weightless, the whole world seemed to float away from her before rushing to greet her and she braced herself, hoping she wouldn't break her arm. Air forced from her lungs upon impact, but not as harsh as she imagined and she frowned at the mass of wiry silver fur beneath her, eyes widening. "Hope!"
Resting between shifting shoulder blades, she rolled onto her stomach, sliding her legs over his velvety sides. His body in a constant state of undulation as he charged, leaped and glided, she struggled to find a suitable position where she wouldn't be thrown off. Maker Hope, can you possibly make this anymore awkward for me? She sat up slightly, grabbing his dirty mane, rolling her hips to his rhythm; in turn, he hurtled along the ground faster, sides heaving with rasping pants. Puncture wounds dotted his neck, matting the surrounding fur with blood; his wings suffered tears and quickly growing accustomed to his range of motion, she realized he favored his right leg.
He yelped an abrupt sharp whine, like a cub being stepped on, missing a beat and nose-diving into the ground, promptly lunging back up; Lightning glanced back—not only were they being chased by speedy ghouls with vampires and strigoi lagging not far behind, but one had managed to jump onto his tail, two more following its example. He bucked and thrashed, crashing again head-first. "Calm down, I'll get rid of them!" she shouted. She faltered, there was no way she could hold her gun without the wind ripping it from her right hand. Don't let me fall. Twisting herself around, she masked her surprise at the lone advancing cie'th. Where'd the other two go? She leaned down, firing quickly, hitting its arms and as Hope suddenly veered to the right, circling back, it tumbled off.
She narrowed her eyes at what felt like an increase in girth and before she could look down, a rattle of chains attracted her attention to his wings. Iron shackles had pierced the thin membrane, fresh blood flowing in rivets, metal links flailing along. The pieces weren't hard to put together. He absorbs them.
They were nearing the front of the highland again. The wind died down around her and the slower he went, the more unsteady he became, clambering over fresh carcasses.
She swallowed, staring at the carnage, acidic bile rising in her throat. She slid down, walking to the edge, spying the cemetery shore below; soldiers, packed like sardines, fought back-to-back, an endless swarm of shambling cie'th squeezing in where there was no room. A northern breeze picked up, snow falling down in earnest. At this rate…there'll be no PSCIOM or Guardian Corps. The silver creature grumbled beside her, hanging his head. Sitting on his haunches, almost lying flat on the ground, clawed wings offering little support, his height was the same as hers. Ears perked, big black eyes, softly aglow, still had a ring of sad gentle green…
You could never be a monster. She reached out a hesitant hand; he sniffed at the red cloth, tail giving a displeased thump. "It's only a sprain," she lied, opening her mouth slightly when the warmth of a long pink tongue tickled her bare fingers. He leaned closer, nuzzling against her chest, the force making her stumble back. Suspicion made her grab onto him, but with a weak grasp, she couldn't fight the final nudge that sent her off the cliff and into her eidolon's waiting arms.
Man, these guys…just keep coming. Hunched over, his weary body threatened to topple over and Sazh wobbled slightly, digging in his pouch for another magazine to feed his gun. "Just hol' on…" Brynhildr towered over him briefly, her uncomfortable grasp of metal limbs transporting him to a higher elevation.
"Only foolish men reload in the open."
Sazh grinned, plopping himself down onto the jutting rock ledge, giving his pistol a sharp tap against his palm. "Well bless your heart," he chuckled, leaning back with a groan.
"It shall break if you are not careful. I cannot stay longer. I must go. The Goddess stirs." Upside down crossbow brandished like a scepter, she dipped her head slightly, dissipating.
He stared at the empty space she left behind, lips curved in a grim smile. Worrying about an old man like me… He heaved a sigh, watching the tranquil swirl of heavy snowflakes; undisturbed by the chaos they were falling into, unafraid of the purity they would lose by touching upon the red battlefield. Laying the pistol on his outstretched leg, leaving the other one in his resting hand, he inhaled deeply, letting it out slowly. "I won't stay here too long…just need to catch my breath…" He'd grown used to the unmistakable raucous of battle; he could accept the peace gleaned from closing ones' eyes.
Stacking his forearms, Snow braced himself, grunting from the heavy blow of a white sacrifice. How'd these things get here? The next strike had him buckling—an unseen club on the back brought him to his knees. Nix collapsed with him, no longer able to lend him her strength. Sharing joint stamina, Stiria crumpled next to her.
"Our time is up," Nix sighed wearily. "The Goddess trusts that We guide…"
"And by her, We must abide, but know that our loyalty has come to lie with you. So we give you warning: a conflict is arising..." Stiria slumped forward, a blue glow enveloping her.
"No one is above Judgment and the Goddess weeps for what is to come."
Bloodied fingers poking through torn gloves, Snow nodded, fisting the soiled ground. "You guys did great." A conflict now? It couldn't have come sooner? A whoosh of air foretold another blow. "Steelguard," he murmured weakly. Bludgeoned repeatedly, black consumed his sight. Serah…
"KIYAAAHHHH!"
"YAHHHH—yah-yak yah!"
Amongst the buzz of dull groaning, soft hooting croons echoed each other repeatedly. Lightning staggered back, looking up at the rock face, catching glimpses of fluttering bits of bright red and white. What's up there?
One of the helicopters stopped its rotation and Lightning stiffened, soldier's hunch kicking in and telling her to move. Running for the nearest cover, she ducked into the base's entrance, foot sliding out from under her—nothing to grab onto, she fell soundly onto her back, head coming hard against the crystal floor. Vision exploding with white stars, she feebly rolled onto her side, curling up and cradling her throbbing head. Fuck. Outside, machine guns tore up the shore, her body seizing with alarm from the dim knowledge that she was still in line of the aircraft's firing range.
And yet, you ask not for my help?
She was entombed in darkness as Odin blocked the archway, kneeling behind his shield. She wheezed softly, struggling to move herself out of Millay's blood, weakly disgusted by the fact that hers now mixed with it. "I couldn't think," she responded huskily. Severely lightheaded, she made it to her knees, pupils constricting when her knight moved from the opening.
Human frailty grieves us Messengers.
She detected a faint whisper of pity, letting him guide her out.
Forgive me, I must part, for my presence will cause conflict for the trials bound to come. Unholy war shall be consecrated by the ultimate sacrifice. Heed my counsel, look to your heart to end the suffering.
His aiding hand left her side, and she leaned against the seaside cliff. He faded into a golden shimmer. Thank you, Odin.
"KEEEHHHYAAHHH!"
She flinched, its screech daggers to her reeling mind. Bodies already covered in blankets of white, she gazed around, spotting no sign of Snow or Sazh. There's nothing I can accomplish by staying here. She turned around, fingering the jutting rock and hard earth. Pulling the dagger from her boot, she gripped it with her right hand, fighting back the tears. Gasping softly, she nestled her fingers into a crevice and started her slow ascent.
For the longest, she went unnoticed; scratching bare legs raw on unforgiving granite and bits of broken shells, her vest so thoroughly saturated with blood, it dripped from the fabric at an alarmingly steady rate. Hope… She gave a startled cry as bullets ricocheted near her, sending orange sparks. Those were too close to be stray. She climbed with boosted vigor, a sudden numbing rush filling her. The labored beating of her heart pounded in her ears and an arm's length from cresting the top, an anguished howl sent cold shivers down her already freezing spine.
The earth gave a terrible groan, quaking and jittering—placing her foot in a sturdy niche, she thrust herself up, throwing her arms over the side, frantically grabbing ahold of willowy roots and what felt like a cold rock. A low-frequency roar sent out bone-numbing vibrations and she clung on, pressing her face to the crook of her arm.
A wave of panic broke out on the shore as powerful gusts touched the ground, people and monsters scattering like fleet-footed shadows—only to end up getting in each other's way because there was no place to run. Peeking carefully over her shoulder, Lightning watched in silent horror as the men she fought with were drawn into whirling vortexes, their frantic screams becoming distorted cries. She gargled back a sob and worked at pulling herself up, kicking her legs against the jagged rock, dirt showering her as the roots came loose. Shaking her head, the movement left her dizzy and crawling forward, she collapsed onto the wet ground, aware of the miniscule weight of snowflakes on her cheek.
Retracting her hand revealed not a rock she'd been holding onto, but a closed fist. Her breath caught in her throat and she quickly turned her face away, witnessing a scene no less disturbing. "No…" She couldn't tell the difference between the screams anymore: the pained ones from the ones in fear…or the screams from the soldiers left with no choice. So she hadn't noticed the people throwing themselves off the cliff's edge. And when she turned her resigned gaze forward, tears fell from lower lashes. Something cold grew in her stomach, agitating the pain it was already in. "Hope, no…"
A soothing scent of spiced apples swathed the mind in warm ease, but it had no effect on Serah as she sat criss-cross on the bed, a pillow hugged to her chest, lilac flannel covering her bruised arms. Lynn scooted closer, wrapping a homemade quilt around her shoulders, trying to once more entice her with the steaming mug of amber cider. Periwinkle eyes lowered slightly before closing; Serah hung her head and Lynn quickly placed the mug back beneath the gentle glow of the lamp next to the heart-speckled envelope. She shared a concerned look with Lebreau before embracing the quiet distraught Farron.
"Hey now, everything's going to be alright—you'll see. Tomorrow you'll all be together again and we'll have a big party," her eyes lit up, "a sort reunion/Christmas party! We're approaching the middle of December after all…" she trailed off at the soft sound of weeping.
Lebreau sighed. "Way to go, Lynn." She rubbed Serah's knee. "But she's thinking in the right direction; everyone will be here tomorrow. C'mon, they've been in a ton of battles before and you know Snow's still egging them all on."
Wright powerwalked down the hall, failing miserably at keeping calm. My goodness, you girls! Two guards stood in front of door 3C; a shift change had taken placed and pushed him back when he tried to enter. "You have to let me through—I've been going in and out all day!"
"The General's in a meeting."
"I know that, I'm part of it; I had some errands to take care of—results that he has to be aware of immediately." In fact, I'm probably already too late. I just know it.
They exchanged troubled looks. "We were told to not allow anyone in; the best we can do is let you in during a break."
The doctor laughed humorlessly, shaking his head. "Fine, I'll just call him," he muttered, taking out his phone, turning his earpiece on.
"Sir, please—"
"I know you're just doing your jobs, but it's unwise to keep me from mine. I save lives for a living for crying out loud." He turned around, jogging back to the elevator, pushing the button for the third floor. The ride up took an eternity for him. Stepping out, he did a mental facepalm. I don't know Serah's room number… "Maker's sake, poor girl."
"Dr. Wright? This is Col. Reed. I'm aware you had an urgent matter to discuss with the general. Perhaps I can be of some help."
He strode down the hall, gray eyes scanning for open doors. "Yes, I need you to pull Lt. Farron immediately."
"…That's not possible for a couple reasons. There's no way we can look for a specific person; it's mass chaos down there—the chances of finding her are next to zero. On the 0.5 chance we were able to locate her, severe windstorms have made all extractions impossible. Is there an imperative reason?"
Wright pulled the creased paper from his coat pocket, staring at the levels of HCG. He sighed wearily. The level indicated its recentness and he knew that theoretically, there was still a chance it was actually negative—or the slight possibility that the nurse had mixed up their files. Only Serah could confirm it. "Yeah…she was pregnant." There had been no time to wait for test results.
"…And she still went out there?"
"I'm betting she didn't know."
"…Unfortunately, there really isn't anything we can do. Chances are…" an uncomfortable chuckle, "well, she doesn't hold back. As soon as the storm abates, we'll do what we can."
"Understood." A slightly ajar door filtered the softness of voices and with a heavy conscience, Wright slowly returned to the elevator.
Triumphantly covered in the blood of the Undying, Hope unleashed a grating roar, shaking to rid himself of the clinging cie'th; it barely mattered, for they merged instantaneously. Four braids of plaited iron gruesomely decorated the edges his wings, chaining to a loose harness that coiled all the way down to the tip over his tail. A graceful ripple down his body, beating powerful currents into the ground, he lunged into the air, fighting the heavy burden he suddenly had to carry.
Guardian or merciless monster—this is an entity I alone control. Challenge me, corrupt me as you so dare! I will send you ALL to HELL!
Bullets grazed past him, dancing off his chains; an inferno rose in his throat and switching his attention from the hulking white shapes, he targeted the weak thermo signatures from the soldiers, diving to glide just above them; from unhinged jaws unfurling a blinding opaque light.
Lightning shrieked as the running men were seared, a clash of talons and furious whips of a now-lethal tail shattering their opalescent crystal bodies. Hope, you leave me with no choice! She dug into her pack, fingers grasping the pink eidolith. Odin, all I ask is that you grant me your strength! Taking her survival knife, she speared into it, the hefty form of a horse instantly dropping to her side, mechanical legs tucked and ready to spring. She clambered onto his back, using everything in her power to hang on as he galloped towards the source of unbridled rage. Hope, I promised I'd protect you and if it has to be from yourself—then so be it! I won't let you become a monster!
"Thundaga!" She wanted to distract him, not cause him unnecessary pain, yet by following her natural inclination to go with her element, the brilliant streaks of burning bolts served to turn his enchainment into an electrifying inescapable cage.
Roaring in agony, crashing to the ground, feebly scratching at rattling shackles with his hind legs, he leapt back up, turning livid eyes to her, fanged mouth opening wide.
Her body didn't warrant her enough speed to react appropriately, so when Odin halted, rearing up with a jump, she fell from his back, landing harshly. Everything then came as a hazy double-imaged vision: a gray swirl that was the sky, drifting flakes of white like little moving stars, a golden blur not quite near enough to glimpse; blast of torrid heat washed over her. So…warm… Her tiny unconscious smile faded as she struggled to process the sudden intensity of a pair of glaring jade-ringed eyes; she had no trouble understanding the semi-circle of bared teeth. Once more something cold and slick wrapped immobilizing tendrils around her heart, giving it a whimper-eliciting squeeze.
The incoherent fear in her watery aquamarine eyes as she turned her head away trembling riddled him with an agonizing realization ten thousand more times powerful than the shock she'd given him. Lightning, no, I'd never! I swear! He clumsily tried to back up, stumbling over his own weight, falling heavily on his haunches—startled when the ashen appendages, riveted in chains, dragged with him. He scooted back and when they followed again, he frantically attempted to push them away his hands, only to come across the fact he didn't even have arms. Maker!
Holy Judgment is nigh. Blood must be cleansed from the—
A bell tolled in the distance and Hope scrambled to his feet, relieved when it was two small human hands moving to his will. "Alexander?" There was no answer; his heart was vacant of his eidolon's guiding warmth. Wait… He stood in the middle of a gray battlefield, an eerie silence broken by a familiar tragic sadness. "This time, I did do it." His nightmarish vision had come true. The one Etro had prophesized—the one he knew was coming, yet never saw coming.
"What is sown must be reaped." Materializing from a translucent cloud of chaotic darkness, opaque obsidian eyes stared peculiarly into his soul, lips a shadow black curved in a delicate sorrowing smile. In her coldly pale arms lay a bundle of black feathers, their sheen a soft glimmer. "And I shall mourn for these souls and cherish them for all eternity."
"Please don't," he whispered, his breath a milky fog.
"Time will abandon them; Existence will erase them. Is that not the fate you wanted for them?" she crooned, gliding with fluid steps. She sang, her voice a subtle, soft lullaby; supporting the bundle of feathers with one arm, she gestured to a fallen body.
Lightning lay face first in the snow, arms positioned as if she had tried to push herself up one last time; bare shoulders sported thin gashes left by another's blade. Her pink hair was stained as red as her shredded cape, insinuating a grave injury. The same dirty red tied around the wrist of her right hand, fingernails cracked and caked with blood. Her black holster lying on the back of her scratched legs, a matte gunblade had been on the verge of sliding out.
"Lightning, I want to be with you," he cried, falling to his knees. "I'm no Guardian, I'm just a murderer. A murderer no one can stop. I don't deserve to be with you, but I want to…I'm so sorry." Long nails raked through his hair, making him look up, a hand void of warmth swept away his tears. "Let me die," he begged. His eyes widened. "Can you switch us? Take my life instead of hers—please!"
Be careful that it doesn't become worth dying for…
"Don't be mad," he whispered.
Her divine touch left him. "My pity is humble. Do you accept it, great creature of mine?"
Unsure of she entailed, he nodded anyway. He had to believe it would prove to benefit the woman he loved.
"Time does not flow here. Upon return, it is up to you, for in your heart, lies a Guardian. That is the truth. Once Holy Judgment has been passed, there will be no exceptions." Her attention seemed to be drawn to her cradled arms. "You may take him now."
Shaguma, Haguma and Samovira hooted and crooned in acknowledgment, weaving masked heads back and forth. "Kiyaahh." Darting forward, they encircled their shaman, imitating his heartbeat.
"Sorrow begets sorrow."
The highland groaned, cracks splintering through quartz, stress fissures yawning open in the ground; the helpless cried out, begging for rescue. A determined growl resonating in his throat, Hope pulled himself back, a slow flutter of wings. He waited until the tremors intensified, until the clouds parted, a peal light ribboning from the heavens. A Guardian protects until there is nothing left him. He holds nothing back. And ultimately of all—he holds no regrets. He sprang forward, charging, leaping over widening crevices; chains danced wildly, shackles ripping further down his wings, but their weight and pain was a burden he was happy to bear—why? Because he could bear them, and holding onto them meant there were people in life who didn't have to.
Gaining lift, he pushed off the ground.
In all his majestic glory, the image of Alexander towered in the sky, his shimmery curtain walls the fiery glow of the setting sun, carved merlons his grand crown.
Drawing in the pillar of purifying light, he soared up—as high as his wings would take him. The slow way her sublime smile grew as if she wanted to fight it, but gave in at the end; her cerulean eyes, sparkling with the intensity of a calm ocean—though he loved the storminess of her fierce gaze just as much; the gentle wave of her hair, its soft bounce, framing her heart-shaped face—it all reflected the resilient, yet fragile beauty of her heart. And he would do anything to save it.
With a final roar, jaws opening wide, he unleashed a blinding beam at Alexander's gate. An explosion of rupturing white, Holy Judgment reflected back, hitting him straight on, igniting the guardian energy coursing through his body, radiating a luminous shield.
The divinity of Justice shall reign!
Shafts of burning light cascaded from the sky and as each one came into contact with the shield of sacrifice, they were immediately drawn and absorbed by Hope, a haunting cry torn from the depths of his willing soul.
A chirping of birds and cool running water beneath her cheek persuaded her to open her eyes. Groaning quietly at the dull throb in her temples, Lightning pushed her sore and aching body up, sucking in her breath at the sharp twinge in her wrist. Right, I… Etro, I fell asleep on a battlefield! "Hope!" She struggled to her feet, trying not to aggravate the opened scar on her waist, a burning warmth surrounded the area anyway. Staring at her surroundings, she was at a loss for words. What'd happened?
Clouds had dispersed, not an airy puff against brilliant blue, the bright sun's climb up revealing it was late morning. Crystal had turned to glacial ice, a small creek running beneath it, winding its way to the rocks below. Corpses littered the field and Lightning fought the urge to vomit, back of her hand shooting to her mouth. She picked her way forward, trying to keep from looking down. Is anyone left? She slipped, quickly regaining her balance, freezing at the clank of iron. She reeled to the right, crying out in relief, only to have it fizzle away at the form he was in. "Hope!"
Stretched on his side, precariously close to the bluff's edge, his tail thumped weakly, silver furred ears flickering at the sound of his name. She collapsed to her knees in front of him, shaking at the wretched sight he was in. "Oh Hope…" Lying on a broken wing, the other one snapped to fold against his back at an odd angle, his side heaved in time to his tortured breathing, a labored growl sounding on every exhale. He watched her every move, closing his mouth to whine when she stroked the soft fur of his muzzle. "Change back," she whispered. "Change back, Hope."
His tail thumped again, accompanied by an apologetic whimper, tears dampening the fur beneath his great big eyes. He wanted her to understand, but it was clear she didn't. He was too weak, the effort would mostly likely kill him, if not the both of them; he was in no state to handle anything. It was a miracle he'd even survived.
"You're not going to do this to me," she gritted, rubbing his neck, her fingers coated with sticky blood. "You can't…" She bent down over him, sobbing into his wiry mane. "I can't lose you again." Her heart wracked with despairing anguish, she could already feel it sinking into the depths of her shell, where it would once more become guarded and unreachable. No! No no no, I won't shut down so easily. "Listen Hope, I need you, ok? You have to try, please, just try…I'm right here, I won't let you go…just don't leave me! What happened to us both fighting to survive? Isn't that what you wanted? Well, I'm here…"
His throat rumbled, high-pitched whines waning; he struggled to curl around her, nuzzling her side—even now, her hands were still cool as they wound their way through his fur. Stretching his neck, he fervently began licking her cheek, leaning back with a groan when she pushed him away; she followed him, wrapping her arms around his iron-gray muzzle, holding his jaw shut, resting against his face.
Look to your heart to end the suffering…
Lightning closed her eyes, crying softly; a defeated grumble huffed from his last surging breaths. "I'm sorry it's taken me so long," she said quietly, fingertips brushing silver softness. "That it has to be now, when I should've told you sooner. I…" Her heart pounded weakly, encouraging her to go on. She tightened her grasp, hoping he could feel it. "I love you."
His ear gave a faint twitch, eyes falling shut, side sinking in. Thank you.
Weeping, she watched with crushing sorrow as a glow of radiance overtook him, chains dissipating and body disintegrating into opalescent crystal until she had nothing to hold onto.
Clinging to the craggy surface, Snow hesitated, tears sliding down his face as he rested his forehead against damp earth. Sis… Her inconsolable cries were gasping grief-stricken heaves and he just knew that they had lost the battle. He pulled himself up, choking, reaching out an arm to the brokenhearted woman, but at seeing her cradling Hope's limp body, he lowered it, light blue eyes tearing with profound sympathy as the softest smile touched her lips.