Chapter 42

The Pale Rider

Leviathan bid goodbye to Thalassa from the edge of Battleship Island before his expedition to find the Lunatic Pandora. The White SeeD Ship had spent the night in tandem with Battleship Island, before Tyris was invited aboard the more elegant vessel by Kurin at first light. Kurin had agreed to drop Thalassa and Tyris at the nearest Galbadian port town, along with Raine. From there, they would take the direct high-speed train to Wilburn, which followed the line of the plateau and would take a couple of hours.

The stomach of Tyris was in knots as she apprehensively walked onto the White SeeD Ship. Facing Raine would be just as bad as facing Ellone, Fujin, or Raiden. Though she was determined to get it over with sooner rather than later. Thalassa and Raine were standing with a freckled, strawberry-blonde White SeeD about their age, who Tyris thought was rather cute in uniform.

'Hey, Tyris!' the girl said. 'I'm Relm. Captain Kurin said I can join you guys at Wilburn.'

Tyris hesitated in shaking her offered hand, noting her Centran accent. Relm must have been a nomad. Likely, she had befriended Thalassa when she had first joined Steiner's people, and had likely replaced Tyris as Thalassa's best friend.

Summoning every ounce of courage she had, Tyris met Raine's hazel eyes.

'Raine, I-'

'You don't have to say anything,' was all Raine said, her features stern.

Tyris eased somewhat. Raine walked away as the plank was raised, waving goodbye to Squall and Rinoa.

For the journey to Galbadia's coast, Tyris found an empty section of deck near the ship's bow. This would give Raine the opportunity to approach her if she wanted. Though nobody other than a couple of curious children came to her at first. A girl and a boy, about the same age as Ifrit. Tyris was smoking, but made sure that she dropped her cig over the rail before the children could see it. Although she had met Hikaru's children, Tyris was largely inexperienced and always felt awkward among kids. She guessed that now was the time for some practice.

'Are you from Neo-SeeD?' the boy asked nosily.

'No,' Tyris replied, then with a soft voice, said, 'I'm a freerider.'

'A what?'

'Someone who fights for a just cause. For something they believe in. Not for money, or because a government or organisation expects them to.'

'You talk like an Esthari!' the girl accused.

Tyris hesitated. 'I was a prisoner within Esthar for many years. But I'm free, now.'

'I like your spear!' the boy said.

'Thank you. It was a gift from Ramuh and Quetzalcoatl.'

'The lightning GFs? Cool!'

Relm joined her after a while. The White SeeD devoted her long hours on the ship to art when not training, having painted many canvases of the landscapes she had seen from the glorious vessel. Tyris feigned an interest in her sketchbooks mainly to pass the time, and also to try and ease the welling anxiety over her looming meeting with Ellone and the others. Although she had to admit Relm had talent. Her latest painting was of the free Guardian Forces arrayed on the cliff edge at the memorial service. It had the potential to be masterpiece, and Tyris regretted that her own GFs had not been there. Perhaps Relm could do another if the Allies managed to free the rest.

Two hours later they reached Venetia, the largest harbour town on the northern Galbadian coast. Normally a resort destination, the commercial areas were empty, with so many Galbadians volunteering to repair the damage done by the battles. Raine led the way to the train station from the harbour. She would not look at Tyris, who took care to hang well back. Relm courteously stood with Tyris on the platform while they waited for the bullet train.

When it arrived, it was sleek, silver and two-storied. Raine had booked two cabins and entered one with Thalassa as soon as they boarded. Tyris and Relm took the other.

'Perks of being a SeeD, eh?' Relm said, in appreciation of the first-class amenities.

A complimentary wet-bar, plush bunk beds, and a private bathroom. The cabin was well lit and a large plasma screen was affixed to the wall. Tyris murmured in agreement.

'I'm used to it. Esthari officers always travel first class, too.'

The White SeeD had already gone for her sketchbook. After helping herself to a strong measure of gin from the optic rail, Tyris turned on the TV. Except she could not focus on the games show as she thought of Ellone and the others again. Ifrit and Edea, too. It did not take her long to visit the smoking area.

'Do you play Triple Triad, Ty?' Relm asked her some time later, putting away her sketchbook.

Tyris shook her head. 'Not anymore. I lost all my best cards on a binge in Esthar's downtown. About a year ago, now.'

'I've always wanted to see the Heart of the Empire,' Relm said.

'Really?' Tyris asked. 'I hate the Hyneforsaken place! I'll never go back there once the war's over!'

Tyris changed the channel again. Though she was unable to maintain an interest in an archaeology programme about Castle Figaro, the ruins of which were in the Dingo to the east.

She asked, 'Do many of your people join White SeeD?'

'Some of the orphans do,' Relm answered. 'My mum died young, and my dad disappeared shortly after. Steiner says my dad's still out there somewhere, but he clearly doesn't give a damn. But Lassa and I had a big thing in common, losing our parents so early. We became best friends. I didn't want to leave her when Kurin offered to take her in, so I begged Steiner to let me live on the ship, too.'

It was almost evening when they reached the canyon citadel. The low sun had the entire city in shadow, and there was a chill in the air. Tyris was the only one who had never been here. They hailed a taxi outside the station, Raine giving the address. After twenty minutes, they reached Laguna's lavish second home in the north of the city. Tyris was so glad for the presence of Thalassa. Laguna answered the door before Raine reached it, leaving it standing open as he rested on his cane.

'Hey, Raine!' he said cheerily.

'It's great to see you, Grandpa!' Raine returned.

Laguna turned to the rest of them as they reached the door.

'How's it going?' he asked happily. 'I don't think that any of us have formally met! I'm Laguna Loire, Esthar's President-in-exile, and Vice President of Galbadia!'

Tyris said nothing. The Cowardly Lion, most within Esthar now called Laguna, even his former supporters. Due to the indecision and weakness he had displayed during the Lunar Cry, compounded by media leaks that he was the deadbeat father of the Lionheart, and that he had only 'defeated' Sorceress Adel through trickery.

Thalassa replied, 'It's great to finally see you again, sir! This is Relm, and Tyris.'

Tyris entered last, closing the door for him. She met Laguna's nervous stare.

'Hi, Tyris,' Laguna said awkwardly, scratching his nose. 'Squall told me you found out who your parents were. I didn't know Edea and Cid that well, but they seemed like awesome people! They took great care of Elle and Squall! I was sorry about Seifer, too. He saved my life before, getting me out of Esthar!'

'Thanks,' was all Tyris could think to say.

There were shouts of excitement from children as Raine entered a room to their right. The nearest door led to the kitchen, and as Tyris craned her neck around it, could see Ellone standing rigidly inside.

The Dreamweaver did not look at either of them, staring intently at a pot that she was stirring on a stove. Tyris was surprised by the change in Ellone's demeanour. Gone was the gentle nature and the radiant dress sense. The long skirts, blouses and shawls had been dropped in favour of a tank top and combats. Her face was lined, but her arms were toned and she seemed to be in incredible shape, with good posture. In Raijin's hands, the petals of the lily had grown razor sharp over the years. she wore no weapons that Tyris could see, though Tyris had noted a sheathed sword and a quarterstaff by the front door, and did not doubt that Ellone was trained in their use.

Tyris walked away, looking at Laguna.

'Where's Fujin?' she asked him quietly.

He pointed up the stairs as he began to hobble toward the kitchen.

'Second bedroom on your left,' Laguna replied. 'She's… uh, been waiting for you!'

Tyris stole a glance into the living room, standing in the opening. She saw the young Edea – her mother's namesake – sitting on a couch with flowers in her chocolate, ringleted hair. Raine had an arm around her, and Raiden sat to Edea's other side. Tyris wondered how much the young girl had been told about her father's death.

On Raine's other side was a dark-haired boy, who met her eyes. Tyris managed a wave but said nothing to her nephew, who resembled Fujin with his slight nose and chin, but not so much in colouring. Ifrit regarded his aunt with curiosity.

Tyris barely heard Laguna as he walked in front of her.

'Coffee, anyone? Tea? Beer?'

Tyris had already gotten more than a little drunk on the train. She might have abandoned the journey, otherwise.

Thalassa walked towards her. 'You want me to come with you?' she asked.

Tyris considered but shook her head. 'It's okay,' she assured her friend. 'I'm ready.'

Tyris moved to ascend the winding staircase. Her footsteps were muffled by the rug. It went up, and then turned to the left. Raikou was now attached diagonally across her back, the lightning-shaped tip about the same height as her head. Tyris was no longer carrying her short swords. She could hide and summon the spear at will, but she liked the symbol of her acquisition on show.

The door to Fujin's room was open, and she was sitting on the bed. Like Ellone, she wore just a vest, but with cotton sweatpants. The stump of her fighting arm was freshly bandaged, and her head was turned to the sound of Tyris' footsteps as she slowly walked into the room. She awaiting her adoptive mother's reaction, who just looked at her with her single, teary garnet eye. Tyris felt her own eyes begin to wet as her vision clouded.

'I know the truth, Cyclone,' Tyris croaked. 'I know you're not my mother. But thank you for assuming the role of one, even though it was a long time ago now.'

'Words cannot describe, Tyris,' Fujin said quietly. 'Nothing would be enough.'

There was another long silence.

Eventually, Tyris replied, 'What's done is done. I survived, and now I'm powerful enough to avenge that night. To avenge Seifer, too. Ellone showed you what happened, didn't she? You know how he died.'

Fujin looked away. 'I couldn't accept it. I tried to stop you.'

'I know,' Tyris informed her. 'I heard you.'

'Ellone said we can't change the past,' Fujin stated. 'Not with her power. I could do nothing for you, Matron and Cid, either.' She looked back to Tyris. 'I understand Seifer's decision, now. He fulfilled his first dream. His other dream was to die in battle. But cleanly, not what Christophe did.'

Behind Tyris, Ifrit appeared at the doorway, his curiosity having won over. They had not heard him silently creep up the stairs. Had Laguna thought it was better to let him come up?

'Ifrit, I told you to stay with Edea!' Fujin snapped.

'Why are you crying, Mom?' the boy asked slowly.

'This is your dad's sister,' Fujin responded. 'She's called Tyris. I haven't seen her for a long time. Now go back downstairs!'

'It's okay, Fujin.' Tyris said, turning to Ifrit and placing a hand on his shoulder. After some consideration, she said, 'Your dad was a great warrior, Ifrit. I was with him when he died, and he loved you very much. You are going to have his gunblade as soon as you're strong enough to wield it. His Guardian Force will be yours one day, too.'

Ifrit's eyes began to look watery, too. He seemed determined not to show weakness, but then shot forward and hugged Tyris tightly.

After he pulled away, he said, 'That's a cool spear! Can I see it?'

Tyris withdrew Raikou and held it in front of Ifrit, letting him touch it. He ran his slender fingers along the shaft, toward the end.

'Careful, it's really sharp!' Tyris warned.

'I bet it kicks butt, but my dad's gunblade is better!' he said, then asked innocently, 'Will it be able to kill Ultimecia?'

Tyris smiled. 'Definitely!'

'It's gonna be my nameday soon!' Ifrit said excitedly. 'Are you all gonna come to my party?'

Tyris looked at Fujin, who nodded.

'Sure, I'd love to!' Tyris answered.

Tyris had not minded Ifrit cutting their reunion short, as she believed that everything that needed saying had already been addressed. In time, she hoped that she would be able to forgive Fujin and Seifer.

'Well, I'm going back downstairs,' Tyris said, then looked to Fujin. 'I'm going to find an inn.'

Tyris had already decided it were best if she made a swift departure. She was not staying here; she could not bear to be around Ellone and her children after what she had done. Fujin did not contest her. Latching Raikou back behind her, Tyris left the bedroom.

'How come you haven't seen her for so long, Mom?' she heard Ifrit asking, as she walked to the stairs. 'Tyris is awesome!'

The tears were pouring freely now. When she reached the living room, she caught Thalassa's eye and motioned for the White SeeD to follow her out the front. Tyris lit a cigarette on the porch as Thalassa joined her.

'Did it go okay?' Thalassa asked.

'Yeah,' she croaked, offering her friend a smoke. 'About as well as it could have. I probably shouldn't be so hard on her, now that I know the truth. Fujin wasn't even my mother, after all. And now she has lost Seifer and Raijin.'

They smoked in silence for a minute.

'I'm looking forward to seeing Balamb again,' Thalassa said, after they were nearly finished. 'I haven't been able to go for a long time. It'll be a lot warmer than here!'

'When was the last time you saw your grandmother?' Tyris asked.

'Years ago, now,' Thalassa replied. 'I email her all the time, though. I'm going to try and see her after the Fire Cavern.'

'Tyris.'

Her heart skipped a beat upon hearing Ellone's voice. Tyris turned to see the widow standing in the doorway; she had managed to approach unheard to either of them. Thankfully, she was unarmed. Ellone's face looked haggard, her eyes bloodshot and framed by dark circles.

'Ellone... I-'

'I've witnessed much of your life since you were taken, Tyris. I know that much of it was nothing short of a nightmare. Matron was essentially my mother, too. She cared for me for many years after Raine died. I guess that would make me something of an older sister to you, as I have been to many.' She paused. 'Raijin was killed in battle, I understand that. You plotted your return to us, and if you could have done things any differently, I'm sure you would have done. Raijin knew the ways of war from being a junior classman. He understood triage and would not have hesitated to sacrifice himself if he knew it would change the course of a battle. I cannot forgive you just yet, but perhaps time will tell.'

Tyris was in shock, not noticing that her cigarette had burnt all the way down to the filter. She felt like her emotions had reached a limit.

Her voice was lifeless as she said, 'Aunt Ellone, thank you.'

Ellone went back inside. They saw Fujin and Ifrit had come back downstairs. Thalassa motioned for Tyris to follow her back into the house. Accepting a cold beer from Laguna, Tyris felt as close to being at ease as she was going to get.

Leviathan had located Lunatic Pandora. Buried at over forty thousand feet, he was the only entity on the Planet that could reach those depths. Not even the submarines of the shumi or the Esthari could traverse the aptly named Serpent Trench.

Laguna had taken no chances after the Pandora had been salvaged by the Galbadians the first time. The sheer pressure had distorted the once perfectly rectangular fortress housing the Crystal Pillar so that it was now barely recognisable. Yet there was no mistaking the power of the Crystal Pillar, which the Demon of the Deep had felt interfering with his essence from many miles away. It took the him some time to find a large enough opening for his giant body, which he needed to remain in, lest he meet the same fate as Odin. He eventually located the opening made by the cannons of the Ragnarok.

Leviathan had been here twenty years before, as mortals reckon time. Back then, the Armageddon Fist had been his summoner. Leviathan had pledged himself to Zell after Balamb's future hero freed him from NORG's binding contraptions, having had his power continually siphoned by that repellent shumi for almost as long as he had been locked within that accursed magicite. Now newly freed by a shooting star brought down by the Celestial Defender, Leviathan would do everything in his power to continue the fight against Ultimecia.

The great sea serpent shot through what used to be the corridors and elevator shafts of the Pandora like a bullet fired from a barrel, until he located the room where the Children of Fate had confronted the trio of the Bloodhound, the Cyclone and the Thunderstroke. Except the other two had turned on their ally. Odin had appeared to run the Bloodhound down, who had channelled the Two Halves of Rubicante into his Hyperion, cutting the overconfident Pale Rider and his eight-legged steed in half. The essences of Odin and Sleipnir were still here, hovering at opposite ends of the large chamber.

The force from the Crystal Pillar, which lay behind Adel's empty tomb in an adjacent area, was immensely strong. It threatened to turn Leviathan incorporeal, but by firming his mind with strength a mortal could not fathom, he was able to remain whole. He summoned two spheres from his great maw, resembling large bubbles in the submerged chamber. Slowly, they approached the two halves of Odin and Sleipnir until the pale mist was suspended within them. The two spheres then merged in the centre of the chamber, and the clouds of mist became one.

Odin spoke his first words for two decades, albeit in his archaic manner.

Thou hast mine own eternal gratitude, cousin!

Let us depart this hellish place, Leviathan answered.

Pushing the large sphere ahead of him, Leviathan hurtled through the ocean waters back the way he came.