- Chapter 12, -
They'll give us something
They'll give us so much to forget
Or enough rope to deal with it
They'll give us something
They'll give us so much to forget
Or enough rope to deal with it
With pencil and knife
You heard your love again
You wrestled your nightmares
The sweat in your bedsheets
This is all of it
This is everything
I'm wanting to forget
When winter sets in
It has a way of crystallizing the bad times
The fevers the heartaches
This is all of it
This is everyone
I'm wanting to forget - Twin Shadow
It had been a few months. King Regus was determined to help Lightning finish his training, allowing him the chance to prove he had all it took to be a Sky Knight.
Lightning hadn't known he had proven this already. King Regus saw more of the qualities he seeked within the young Squire, more so than his own Knights in his order. Though, he had to make sure he was ready…
The King trusted Lady Lavender, Sir Sterling, all his Sky Knights that gathered behind him. He trusted them to protect their people. Keep the terras they served safe. But, King Regus could not unite the Atmos. Not how he had dreamed, nor hoped. He knew the rifts that were driven between his people through time.
Time had been kind, yet it had also been harsh.
He was not blind to the struggles, nor the pain many under his reign faced. At times, Regus felt powerless to stop it. It was one thing to lead them, it was a whole nother to inspire them. All of them at least.
He knew the biggest challenge Lightning would face, would be earning the respect of his more…Pedigree Knights. Legacies. All of which Lightning was, however, being born a bastard on the docks. An 'illegitimate' claim on Thunderyn's Glory, they'd say. He could hear them already.
The doubt, the disregard of Lightning's character, based on his station.
The words that the young Squire had heard from Princess Aurora, was all she had learned from her father. King Regus did not see their shoddy conditions, or pieced together lodging, and see filth, or dishonor. He saw will, and the beauty that life, no matter how harrowing; It would continue.
His wife had helped bring children into the world. Helped their citizens that needed a hand. He had witnessed babes born in horrid, unclean sheds, come into the world with a smile. He felt inspired by the youth who could not see the faults, or the facades that the world offered. The tribulations that he at times, felt lost in.
King Regus' mind reeled. It pounded away in his skull. Filling the back corners of his mind with doubt. Doubt within himself. Doubt within if he and his men could-
"Father?"
The King spun around. His shoulders eased, as a smile came to his face.
"You have stood outside for some time…Is everything alright?" Aurora asked, stepping onto the terrace.
"Everything is fine, dear. I just had much on my mind."
Aurora stepped over, standing next to her father, "Like, what?"
He let out a breathy laugh, "You mustn't worry yourself on my accord. I would not wish to disparage that brilliant mind of your own." He said.
"I am not a child anymore…" Aurora crossed her arms. She could hear another soft laugh from him.
"As happy as I am that you have grown into a wise young maiden…There is still much I wish for you to see before having to-"
"If you are speaking of the war. I am not ignorant of it…I will," Aurora gave a sigh, "I will see it whether I am ready or not. I see the Knights preparing. I hear their squadrons speak of these times. I am already bearing witness to it all. Whether I see the things you wish for me, or not."
King Regus froze for a moment.
"This is…true." He admitted, looking off into the distance. His shoulders tensed once again.
"...I fear-" Regus began, the man beginning to fiddle with an old coin. "I fear that this world is unprepared for the dangers we will face. I fear that our people face a time where…they lose hope. Turn their backs to one another. I fear where we no longer see each other as…our fellow man. I do not even hate the Cyclonians themselves. Only the one who leads them, encourages them, and skews their vision of this world."
"Master Anarchis?"
"Yes…She believes in a time. Ancient as the winds themselves. Back before our lands became what they were now. All the Terras were nearly brought into one. A singular mass of land. Connected, instead of spread apart. Near Millenia passed. The Terras shifted outwards, and Only Cyclonian remained where it had always sat.. The world shifting pushed the Terras apart. She believes that Cyclonia should reign over all. All because of this old, forgotten notion."
Aurora seemed taken back, her hands fidgeting. King Regus could see the worry over her face.
"I, and my Knights all swore ourselves to protect this kingdom, all kingdoms that call these skies home. Please, do not worry yourself too much. I would not want you to be despaired by this world. You hold far too much light within that heart, and mind of ours…"
Aurora listened to every word. She hung off of every story he told. They may have frustrated the other with how their individual views differed, but she was proud to be his daughter.
King Regus felt relieved, seeing Aurora relax beside him as they glanced over the view. King Regus glanced down, looking over the Air field of the palace.
He could see his Knights, and their squadrons. Many are preparing to strengthen their defenses. He could see them converse.
"I do not wish to take up your time, my dear. Go on, I am sure your tutors are looking for you now."
Aurora huffed, putting her elbows to the terrace wall. "I hate sitting in that daft room, hearing them sing tunes of things I already know-"
The King Laughed
Regus, shaking his head while chuckling, seeing Aurora's pouty lips.
"I did not enjoy my lessons either, my dear. However, even if we believe we know all there is to know on somethings. We learn everyday, Aurora. Never forget that..."
Aurora nodded. Aurora was glad, yet still frustrated by her fathers words. She didn't need further lessons on things she already knew. She was tired of studying maps. Tired of learning about the history of the Atmos. She wanted adventure. To go out and explore. She did not want to sit in the palace.
Regus watched his daughter leave. He felt the burden again. Plaguing his body with the crushing weight. He had only hoped that it would all become clearer in time.
Regus, shaking his head while chuckling, seeing Aurora's pouty lips.
"I did not enjoy my lessons either, my dear. However, even if we believe we know all there is to know on somethings. We learn everyday, Aurora. Never forget that..."
Aurora nodded. Aurora was glad, yet still frustrated by her fathers words. She didn't need further lessons on things she already knew. She was tired of studying maps. Tired of learning about the history of the Atmos. She wanted adventure. To go out and explore. She did not want to sit in the palace.
Regus watched his daughter leave. He felt the burden again. Plaguing his body with the crushing weight. He had only hoped that it would all become clearer in time.
- The Docks -
Lightning was waking up. The sun beaming in through the Condor's window. Lightning sitting up while rubbing his eyes. He looked around, noticing Garoth was missing.
He remembered him mentioning going out earlier. Garoth said something about checking the dock prices.
Lightning sat up, getting off the couch. He could hear the other's in the kitchen.
Lightning got up, walking out to the front.
"Guys?" He called out, giving a stretch of his arms. He could hear murmurring.
"Mornin', Lightn'." Merrick greeted him, slapping a hand onto his shoulder, "How'd ya' sleep?"
Lightning shrugged.
"It was okay, I guess." He answered, looking over to see Lockett closing the kitchen door.
"What're y'all doing?" Lightning asked, raising a brow. Lockett turning his head with a smirk.
"Don't worry about it."
Lightning rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. "You're being suspicious."
"Okay, okay...We broke something and are cleaning it up. Don't tell Garoth!" Merrick said, folding his arms.
Lightning could see Dena smacking her hand against her face.
"Merrick, shut up!" Lockett ordered Merrick, his eyes narrowing.
"Nah, I got this. Just, go get dressed. We got it all handled. Promise." Merrick smirked, Lightning feeling unsure.
"Fine." Lightning gave a sigh, walking off to go change.
Lockett let out a sigh, seeing Lightning heading down the hall. The young kid letting out another sigh.
"Fucker nearly messed up his own birthday surprise-!" Lockett grumbled, Merrick and Dena laughing.
"Nice job, Merrick." Lockett stated sarcastically.
"Hey, I think my acting was top notch, if I say so~" Merrick defended with a smile.
"Idiots." Dena mumbled, Lockett rolling his eyes.
Ace was wrapping a gift, the paper giving the kid a hard time, "We gotta hurry before he gets back. Where's Garoth? I thought he was grabbing the other gifts from the post box.
"Damn...Gonna mess the wrapping, c'mon..."
"He'll be here, now quit stressing. Relax, relax. Let's get this done before Light-" Lockett froze when hearing the front door open. The four stopping in their tracks.
Garoth whistling while kicking the door shut. His arms filled with bags.
"Alright, We got the cake, the decorations, and a couple presents." He walked into the kitchen, setting everything on the counter, "Where's Lightnin'?"
Merrick was clutching his chest.
"Garoth, we nearly shit our pants-!" Merrick explained with a whisper.
"Eh?" Garoth blinked. Lockett coming out.
"So, Is Lightnin' up?"
Lockett shrugged, "Still in the bedroom, but knowin' him. He stays curious so he'll probably be coming back in-" Lockett motioned to the door. Lockett counting down with his fingers. The now five hearing a door shut out in the ship. "-3"
Garoth set the shit down, beginning to set up the decorations as fast he could. Dena was putting the finishing touches on the cake.
"2-"
Ace began taping the gift from them. It wasn't the prettiest wrapping job ever...Merrick was helping Garoth. The young kid nearly tripping over himself.
"-Now, Now, Now-!" Lockett shouted in a whisper. Lock rushing over to the door before hearing it slide open.
"SURPRISE!"
Lockett jumped onto Lightning. The bulker teen picking up his friend.
"-Whoa!"
"Happy Birthday!" Lockett laughed, Garoth joining in.
"Yeah! Happy Birthday, lil pint!"
Lightning was stunned. He didn't know what to say, or how to react. Lightning being dropped to his feet by Lock. Lightning stumbled, nearly falling back. Lightning catching himself as Merrick patted his shoulder.
"Hope we didn't scare ya' too much."
"Surprised, but not scared. I-...It's my birthday?" Lightning questioned.
"Well, yeah." Dena said.
Lightning rubbed the back of his neck. His past birthdays were...hard. Especially after his mom had passed. He didn't have the best memories...Lightning looking up, seeing his family smiling.
"Come' on, don't be so glum, man." Merrick encouraged.
"Come on, Birthday Boy!" Dena cheered, taking Lightning by the arm as she showed off the cake she had worked on since earlier that morning. "Lockett said your favorite was Angel Wing cake. My mom had a recipe so-"
Lightning was feeling so many emotions. It was his favorite. His mom had made it every year. It wasn't hard to make, but it was a treat. Lightning was lost in his head until Lockett shook his shoulder.
"Ya' gonna blow out the candles or what, birthday boy?"
Lightning quickly wiped his eyes, hearing them begin to sing to him. Garoth just watching. he wasn't much of a singer.
"Make a wish, kid." Garoth encouraged.
Lightning gave a nod, looking at the flames.
Lightning closing his eyes as he made a wish.
'Please...Just let them always be happy...'
Lightning taking a deep breath as he blew out the candles. The flames disappearing as smoke trailed up.
Lightning opening his eyes. The others clapped, Merrick whistling as Lockett picked up the knife.
Lightning, as funny as it was, felt electric. It was hard to let the hard feelings boil up with so many smiling faces. It was hard to focus on the bad, when so much was good.
Garoth was beaming ear to ear.
"Alright, who's first?" Lockett asked,
Lightning wasn't expecting them to have gotten him any gifts. But, Merrick was holding a small wrapped package. Dena held a card, and Ace was excitedly holding his terribly wrapped gift.
Lightning was taken back, looking to everyone.
"Go ahead." Garoth encouraged, putting his hand on his sons shoulder. "They picked out gifts all for ya'."
Lightning smiled. Merrick letting Ace go first as the 12 year old was nearly jumping where he stood.
"Here! Open it, Lightning!" Ace was shaking in excitement, seeing Lightning take the gift.
Lightning felt his cheeks hurt from smiling so much. He had forgotten how nice it was. Lightning trying to follow the haphazardly placed tape. Ace, impatiently bouncing in place.
Lightning opened the box, blinking.
"What're these?"
Ace beamed. "Those are some of my dad's old notes about his travels. I've written about all of you, and when I got to call them over the radio, I mentioned your birthday, and your training with the king-" Ace was cut off by a hug. Lightning wrapped his arms around the kid as Garoth wiped his eyes.
Lockett nudged Merrick.
"Damn, old man." Merrick teased.
"Shove it-"
Lightning smiled at Ace, nudging his shoulder. "This is...amazing, Ace. Thank you, and tell your dad thank you times- I don't know, A thousand!" Lightning was beaming.
"Aw, well, come here-!" Ace hugged Lightning tightly.
Lightning felt the excitement grow. Garoth was already cutting the cake.
"Alright, next present."
Dena came up, "I went more simple. But, I'm sure you'll appreciate the contents."
Lightning took the envelope. He could see Garoth's brows raise, Merrick's snickers, and Lockett's smug expression.
"Uh..." Lightning sat a bit confused before opening it.
'Dear Lightning.
I have heard from both my Daughter, and the King. I witnessed your exams, as well as your first day of Combat Training. At first i was unsure of your resolve, however. after seeing your dedication, and the way you carry yourself, I have no doubts you will serve well. I know you are still young, and I do not doubt the King's judgement, nor my daughter's. From all of Terra Saharr, and the Third Degree Burners, Happy Birthday.
- signed, Dakon Saharr'itra. Sky Knight of Saharr'
Lightning blinked.
"Dena, this is-this is the guy who defends Terra Saharr, and is the leader of the Third Degree Burners!" Lightning was blown away.
Dena felt proud, "I have connections~" She smirked.
Lightning couldn't help but laugh, "Kinda forgot he was your dad. I really appreciate this."
"Eh, I knew a nerd like you'd like something signed by a Sky knight." She teased.
Merrick handing him the wrapped gift.
"I didn't put as much thought into this one. So, I hope it isn't dumb, or stupid. It came from here." Merrick said, putting his hand over his heart. Acting as dramatic as he always had.
Lightning was laughing, the teens all making jokes and comments as Lightning carefully opened the poorly wrapped gift.
Lightning ripping through the paper, opening the gift. Inside was a small notebook. The binding was leather. It had his name engraved on it.
Lightning flipped it open.
"Woah-"
"Like it?" Merrick questioned with a smile.
The inside cover was lined with drawings. It made him think of the night in the tavern. Showing of his own doodles. Lightning noticed Merrick even tried to replicate some of those same doodles…
Lightning was speechless, flipping through the empty pages.
"I...I love this-!" Lightning turned, hugging Merrick.
Garoth chuckled, "Alright, Lock. Ya' up."
"Let's save the best for last." Lockett boasted.
Lockett stepping over, presenting Lightning a rather small box.
Lightning felt nervous, his palms sweaty.
Lightning unwrapping the box, seeing a necklace.
"Woah-"
Garoth sighed, Lockett nudging his ribs, "Alright, alright."
It was a small pendant. A lightning bolt. It was the same as Lockett's hammer necklace.
"Genuine Terra Amazonian iron. There's a lady up in the city who's from there. I asked her if she could make one, and she did. Figured it'd be cool since mine is from there." Lockett smiled.
"This is really awesome...Thank you guys. Really."
Lightning gave a smile, wiping his eyes. "Really...This all means alot. Thank you. All of you."
Garoth put a hand on Lightning's shoulder. "I know, we aren't your real family. But, we sure as hell act like it." Garoth smiled to the kid. "Now, there's a few more presents by some people who couldn't be here. They're right here." Garoth said, pointing Lightning towards the boxes.
Lightning's eyes widened, seeing the numerous packages.
"They're from people? Like who?!"
Lockett rolled his eyes, "Stop asking questions and look!"
Lightning stepped over. His brows raised. Seeing the tags on them.
'To, Lightning Strike. - From Lady Lavender, sending my best'
'To Lightning. - From Beau and Olaf, and all the tavern Folks. Happy 14th, Kid'
'To Lightning, happy 14th. - Sir Sterling'
Lightning looked through them all. Garoth smiling.
"Go on. Look at em." Garoth encouraged.
Lightning's heart was racing. It was harder to keep his emotions down, when they ran so high.
Lightning, sniffling a bit as he opened the one from Lady Lavender. Inside was a small card.
'Lightning,
I am sorry I could not be around to wish you the happiest of birthdays. However, I hope this gift does you well. I have asked my father to craft you a Sky Knight Sword. One worthy enough to suit one such as yourself.
- Lavender'
"No way-" Lightning couldn't believe it, looking at the gift box. It was long. Lightning laid his hand over the box. He was almost afraid to open it. Lightning glancing to the others. They were encouraging him to.
Garoth patting his back, "Open it. C'mon."
Lightning gripped the lid. Taking off the top, and seeing the sheathe.
"...Whoa..." Lightning gently picked it up. The sword was heavy in his hand.
Garoth helped Lightning unsheath the sword.
"Holy shit-!" Lockett was stunned, 'That's a Crystal Energy sword. Damn...' Lockett thought.
Lightning could feel the energy pulsate from the sword itself. Lightning's heart was beating faster. His throat felt dry.
"How-how did they...Why would they do all of this...?" He spoke out to himself, without a thought. Lightning looking at the sword. Lightning's thoughts running.
Garoth smiled.
"Lightnin', there will always be people who believe in ya'." Garoth started.
Lockett joined in, "Yeah, like us- dork."
Lightning laughed, shaking his head.
"Ya' see, Lightnin'. There's always gonna be someone who doesn't believe in ya' for one thing or another. That's just how it goes, kid. But, the fact is, is that there are people who do. Probably far more than you think." Garoth smiled, seeing the kids eyes water.
"You've been workin' your ass off for years. Don't let a few assholes stop ya'." Lockett added.
Merrick agreed, nodding.
Lightning was curious to see what Sir Sterling possibly got him. Merrick and Lockett egging him on.
"Go on, Open it!" Merrick laughed.
Lightning could it was small. It was an envelope with something inside. a lump in the paper. Lightning opened it, pulling out the card.
'Lightning,
Happy 14th Birthday, Lad. I know it hasn't been easy these passed few years. However, I am proud of the young man you are becoming. Lady Lavender an I have been sent out to Terra Nord to help aid in their defenses. However, I do not doubt you will be following in our footsteps, soon. I have included something to help you along the way. Lavender speaks highly of you all, as well of the skills of each of her pupils. Take this as a show of faith, Lightning.'
Lightning opened the small note, seeing a key.
Lockett, Merrick, Dena, and Ace were peeking over his shoulders.
"A Key?"
Lightning seen there was more writing on the back,
'When you find yourself in the Palace Air Field. Ask to see the Overseer, Lance. He will know what it's for.
- Best Regards, Sterling Skies'
Lightning couldn't believe it. Merrick smiling wide.
"I've always wanted a ride like those."
Lockett was jealous, "Damn..."
Lightning looked up, snickering a little. "Don't worry Lock. Yours is still...sorta the best-!"
"Oh, thanks asshole. Here I am, tryin' to be supportive, and here you are." Lockett mocked offense, Merrick and Ace laughing.
The six all having a good time. The Condor crew bringing a spark to his life he'd been missing. It felt nice, to know people cared. To feel it.
A few hours had passed. The rag tag group cleaning up.
"Hey, Lockett" Lightning called out, the taller teen turning his head.
"Hm?"
"Thanks, for everything." Lightning smiled.
Lockett was confused. "What are ya' thanking me for?"
Lightning rubbed the back of his neck, trying to find the words. It wasn't ever easy to talk feelings with Lockett.
"When my ma died...It felt like you were the only one who understood. Even if things were rocky during that. You were still there. So...thanks." Lightning awkwardly said, his ears red.
Lockett was surprised. Lockett crossed his arms.
"I didn't do anything special, Lightn'."
"But, you did. Out of all the amazing people, you're the one who actually feels like...like my family. not that the others aren't-" Lightning felt embarrassed, afraid he was stumbling over his words. "-I mean, they're great too, but- damn. Okay, Let me start over-"
Lockett laughed. Putting a hand on Lightning's shoulder.
"You ain't gotta say anything else, Light."
"But, I do-...I'm trying to say is you're like my brother. More so than anyone I've met." Lightning admitted.
Lockett felt his heart clench. A warmness coming over him.
"Then I'm honored, Light."
Lightning nervously laughed. Lockett putting him into a headlock. "Someone's gotta watch your back, right?"
"Lockett, let go-!" Lightning laughed. Merrick, Ace, and Dena coming out from the kitchen.
"What's going on?" Ace asked.
"Yeah, why are ya' hurting, Lightning?"
Lockett leaned into it, giving Lightning a noogie.
"Birthday Boy's gotta get his Birthday noogie~" Lockett teased, ruffling Lightning's hair.
"Lockett, Damn it-!" Lightning complained, hearing Dena and Merrick laughing.
"Alright, alright. let him be." Garoth laughed.
"Hey, it's his birthday. I can't let him have it easy-!" Lockett smirked.
Lightning pulled free from his grip. Giving Lockett a shove.
"Asshole, Now, my hair's a mess-!"
"Aw, does the birthday boy need his hair all fixed?" Lockett teased, Merrick laughing.
"Hey, You spend longer on yours than I do mine, so, don't be talking." Lightning shot back.
Lockett couldn't deny that.
"Yeah, Well-...It takes a lot to look like this-" Lockett flicked his hair.
Merrick and Dena rolling their eyes.
"Okay, ya' pretty boys. How 'bout ya' help us finish cleanin'?" Garoth offered.
The had come.
The sun setting over the horizon. The sky painted in oranges, pinks, and purples.
Lightning was walking through the docks. He had just wanted some time to clear his head.
Lightning was watching the people pass. They were rushing, and bustling. Carrying their cargo.
Lightning stopping at one of the balconies. Looking out to the horizon.
He could see a few terras out, and through the clouds. Lightning letting out a breath.
He could see a hawk flying out. The bird carrying a small pouch in it's talons. Lightning's eyes following the bird as it disappeared into the sky.
The air was warm. Lightning perking up when he felt a magical tinge in the air. He'd experienced it enough to know.
"What now, Anduin?" Lightning sighed, knowing exactly who it was.
"Ugh, you're such a buzzkill. Ruining my entrance. Fine, fine. You got me."
Lightning turned, seeing a tall, lithe man appear.
Anduin stood, wearing his usual colorful cloak, and black attire. The man waving his gloved hand, the magic fading.
Lightning rolled his eyes. Anduin coming over and leaning against the balcony rail.
"So, must be a joyous time. Birthdays~! Celebrating the day you were brought forth into the world." Anduin smirked, glancing over.
"What're you doing here?" Lightning questioned.
"Hey, hey, Hey-! Is that how we greet an old friend. I came to give you my well wishes~" Anduin beamed, acting hurt by Lightning's cold response.
Lightning looked Anduin over.
"Doubt that."
"I can't just wish you a happy birthday, Little Shite?" Anduin snipped, putting his hands on his hips. "So testy.."
Lightning looked unimpressed.
"C'mon. Not even a thank you. After all the effort I put into my gift."
"Your gift? What're you-" Lightning cut himself off when realizing what Anduin was saying. He looked around. The Docks looked different.
"Where am I now?" Lightning questioned.
Anduin smirked, waving his hands.
"We are in my realm. Parts of it take different form. People either make this place their own hell, or their own sanctuary. Some even both-!"
Lightning felt his blood run cold.
"So why am I here? Am I going to meet my grandad, or some other person who died before meeting me? Because, honestly. I'd rather go back." Lightning stated, Anduin bursting out into a laugh.
"No, no, no. I just wanted to show you something. Now, close those eyes-"
Lightning was hesitant, unsure of where Anduin was taking him. He felt hesitant.
"If you stab me, I will kick your ass."
"Stabbing is so...unpoetic. Not my style. Now, c'mon. Eyes closed, Birthday boy."
Lightning hesitantly did as he was told. Closing his eyes. Feeling Anduin lead him by the shoulder.
"Alright, Now, don't open your eyes. Okay?"
Lightning felt nervous. He could feel the shift. Hearing the sounds change. He could hear chatter.
"Anduin, what are you doing?" Lightning questioned.
"Again with the questions. Keep those peepers closed~. We're almost there."
Lightning, reluctantly, kept his eyes shut. Walking blindly.
"Can you tell me where we are, at least?"
"You'll find out, soon...Now." Anduin stood to the side.
Lightning could hear singing as he opened his eyes. Lightning seeing a room full of people. They were cheering, singing, and clapping.
"Happy Birthday, Lightning." Anduin smirked, pushing the teen inside.
Lightning was stunned, seeing the stage-
'All the things that you could do,
Happiness comes back to you.'
Lightning's mouth fell open, hearing the music, and voices. His mother was on the stage.
'Believe in me, that I believe in you,
Happy Birthday, to you~!'
Lightning began to cry.
"Thank you all for allowing me to sing. My son is quite fond of music." Electra smiled, speaking into the microphone. Lightning remembering those nights. He remembered that song.
"Mom-..."
"Oh, how I miss him. He'd be 14."
The crowd of souls cheered. Many knowing the same sentiment. Wishing they could see their loved ones again, especially on happy days.
"Happy Birthday, Lightning." Electra smiled.
The souls cheered. Applauding the woman.
Electra setting the mic aside, as she walked off the stage.
Anduin had slipped away. Appearing the Electra as he began to whisper to her in the distance.
Lightning could see her face, and her smile. Her eyes, so kind.
Electra glancing over, and seeing her son.
Time, or the time in this place, seemed to freeze. Lightning seeing Electra, the crowd fading out.
"Lightning-!"
"Mom-"
Electra rushed over, putting her arms around him.
"My boy, You've grown so much-!" Electra put her hand on Lightning's cheeks.
"Mom, I-"
Electra hugged him tightly. He couldn't stop his tears. Lightning hugging his mother back. Electra, as well, shed tears.
"I missed you-! I miss you-" Lightning cried.
Electra smiled, hearing her son.
"I'm so proud of you. I'm so sorry, my little Spark." Electra kissed Lightning's forehead.
The two holding eachother, and refusing to let go.
"Mom-...I love you..." Lightning cried.
Electra closed her eyes. "I love you, too."
The two stayed there, Lightning feeling a warmth. It was indescribable.
He knew he had to leave. But, he didn't want to. He didn't ever want to leave, but he couldn't stay.
Electra smiled, her tears falling down her cheek. "Doesn't this place look nice. It reminds me of home."
Lightning was trying to stop his tears. Electra wiping her son's eyes.
"I promise, you'll see me again." Electra smiled, kissing her son's head.
Lightning felt his heart drop. "Mom, no-..."
"I never wished to leave you, not how I did...If i had known what I felt was not merely just a cold. I would've done anything to stay...Light, please know, I'm so proud. Proud of the man you're becoming. I can see it in your eyes, and your heart." Electra's hands cupped her son's cheeks.
Lightning was sobbing, barely able to muster his words.
"Are you...happy?" Lightning questioned, his voice breaking.
Electra smiled, nodding. "Of course. Even more so...seeing you live your dreams. That's all I'd ever dreamed for."
Lightning was crying. Electra holding her son again.
"I'll see you again. I promise." Electra spoke softly.
"I love you-..."
Electra smiled, "I love you, too."
Anduin stepped in. Placing a hand on Lightning's shoulder...It felt far kinder than Lightning would've imagined.
"It's time."
Electra hugged her son tightly, as if she didn't want to let him go. "It's okay, my Spark. Be safe."
"I will- Mom, I-" Lightning could see it all begin to shift, "Mom, I'm...glad you're happy. I miss you, so much."
"And, I miss you."
Anduin had a somber look on his usually smug face. Lightning felt his chest grow tight. His throat tight.
Before he knew it. He was back again on the docks. Lightning still leaned against the balcony, now in hysterics.
Lightning covered his face with his hands. Anduin standing by his side.
"I...miss her. So much-" Lightning was gasping for breath.
Anduin sighing, putting his hand on Lightning's shoulder.
"Grief can be a bitch."
Lightning glanced to the demi-god ghost, thing. Whatever he was!
"Why would you show me that, then rip it away-?! What kinda sick-?!"
"Would you rather forget her completely?" Anduin questioned. His face was...calm. Lightning was expecting anger. Lightning was expecting annoyance. Instead, Anduin's eyes were serious, but also kind.
"N-no. But, why-"
"Because you wished to see her. Material gifts no longer...seem that important to me. When I-..." Anduin's voice trailed off as he looked out. His gaze faraway.
"Nevermind, just...Know, that I meant no ill-will. It may-"
"How did you die?"
Lightning was met with silence. The two just staring.
"Excuse me?" Anduin questioned.
"you said you died...How? If, you don't mind telling me." Lightning hesitantly asked.
Anduin sighed, "Is it that important?"
"Well, it would probably help me not hate you. Or, question if I should thank you." Lightning stated.
"Fair enough. You know of the War, yes?"
"Yeah, the Great War...back 20 years ago."
Anduin scoffed, shaking his head.
"Wasn't just some war. It was a war like no other...The war spanned for 5 years, and midway through it...I thought I had fell in love. I was wrong."
Lightning looked curious, seeing the older man's eyes darken.
"It wasn't...the best relationship." Anduin laughed a bit, "Then again, how are you to know the person you love is lying. Even worse, a spy for the very force your people are fighting against."
"She was a Cyclonian." Lightning was stunned, his eyes wide.
"He...was a Cyclonian."
Lightning paused, his brow raising. "Wait, what?"
"The fool I fell in love with. He was the most beautiful being I'd ever laid eyes on. I was his for the taking. Though, I didn't realize until after he'd betrayed us...that is was all a beautiful little lie. In reality, he was a Cyclonian General." Anduin continued.
Lightning listened, seeing the way Anduin spoke. His expressions, the pain and rage in his eyes.
"...I was barely 20 or so. I had found out. I tried to talk with him, and that was my mistake. I had hoped he'd see...what we had, and what we could've had...had he not been a backstabbing sonnuvabitch." Anduin shook his head, Lightning watching the man.
"He killed me. Right before I could kill him. I could see the hesitation in his eyes. Seeing the blade. However, he chose his duty, his loyalty, over love. As for my death...Well. I watched from the Veil as my family buried me. he had the audacity to join them...I was powerless to reach out. Screaming to not a soul. No one could hear. Saying, 'No! He's right there! The traitor is right...there!' But, no. No one could hear my cries. Least of all the one person I wanted."
"What happened to him?"
"Oh, what do you think, Lightning."
Lightning got the picture.
"My father saw that justice was given. He slayed the betrayer...once it came to light. I was a lost soul for months until the Veil opened up for me. I didn't know why...but, I was chosen to protect it. Bridge that painful gap I detested so. Death is a cruel, bitter, cold bitch."
Lightning felt a shiver. Anduin's eyes glowing slightly.
"Even those we care about. Those we love."
Lightning seen the way Anduin's eyes softened.
"They all journey to us eventually. hah, the Sickened face he had when I was who greeted him to death's door. The specter of his past life, was the very face who was tasked to usher him to the next. I bit of...delicious irony. I only regret not welcoming him to the afterlife with an axe."
Lightning couldn't help but laugh at the end, Anduin snickering a bit, shaking his head.
"Life's funny like that, sometimes. A cruel, sadistic, joke."
"Do you hate him?" Lightning questioned, his question sincere.
Anduin was taken back, his brows furrowing, "Hate him?...Sometimes. But the beauty of where I stand is knowing I could never hate him as much as he hates himself. No punishment could ever be as cruel as the one he has inflicted upon himself. I could torture his soul till the stars fade away. But, the fact that every day, he carries my memory, and my name on his tongue, and regrets the day it left him. It was fate to be both of our downfall. My naivity, and his cruelty merely played their part. Danced their dance together. That's just how fate is, Lightning. That's how the world is."
Lightning, hearing Anduin speak, couldn't help but feel a pull towards his story.
"It's cruel, but also kind. One cannot exist without the other. Much like Death and Life, Peace and War. There's always two sides of the coin, Lightning." Anduin explained.
"Why did you show me my mom?"
"...Because it was your wish. Death and life...Even in her own death, she looks to you. In your life, your look to her. I merely done my job, of bridging that gap. Connecting you. You asked, and so, I did."
Lightning was surprised by his answer.
"But, why would you?"
"Why? Well, because it was your birthday. I've done plenty worse...trust me, Lightning." Anduin scoffed. "In the end, I only hoped to give you closure..."
"...Is she happy? That wasn't a lie?"
"Had your mother ever lied to you before?"
Lightning paused, "...No."
"Then trust that. Believe her. Have faith, Lightning. She misses you just as much as you miss her. Trust me, Lightning. Death does not mean an end. It is merely just another step in this journey we all lead. A step, we all take. Whether or not our death is peaceful or violent...doesn't matter. We still die, and the people we leave behind. They're still here. Think of it like a door...It's merely an exit from this life...to the next."
Lightning felt a bit drained. Probably more than such.
"You should return, Lightning. Your family will begin to worry."
"You're right." Lightning stood, looking over to him. "...Thank you. For showing me mom." Lightning genuinely smiled.
Anduin snickered a little.
"Just keep my words close."
"I will."
Anduin smirked, waving his hand. Lightning seeing him vanish this time.
"Thanks again."
Lightning blinked. Feeling a wind. Lightning finding himself back. He was right where he was. Lightning, rubbing his eyes, feeling a wave of fatigue hit him.
"Damn.."
Lightning returned back to the Condor.
This had been the wildest, but most...special birthday he'd ever had. Lightning walking through the hanger.
"Hey, Lightnin'! Ya' alright? Ya''ve been gone a while." Garoth called out, seeing the young man.
"Yeah, Sorry. I...went for a walk. Needed some fresh air."
Garoth was worried, seeing the look Lightning had. "Everythin' alright?"
Lightning was honest. Nodding.
"Yeah, Just...Thinking about mom." he admitted. Garoth's expression softening.
"I'm sorry, lad." Garoth could see Lightning had been crying.
Lightning shook his head, "No, it's not bad...Just, miss her."
"She was a good woman. Always had a kind word whenever we spoke. She loved ya' with everything she had." Garoth comforted.
"She did." Lightning agreed, smiling a little.
"Now, c'mon. Merrick made dinner. It'll get cold."
"Alright." Lightning smiled, the two walking back.
Merrick was laughing, Lockett and Derena, joining him. Ace and Dena, talking.
Garoth smiled, sitting down.
Lightning sat down, everyone was around the table.
"So, didja' have a good day, Lightnin'?"
"I did. This has been the most awesome birthday ever, guys. Thank you."
Derena, Lockett, Merrick, Ace, and Garoth were glad.
"Happy 14th, Lightning."
The night went on, the Storm Hawks enjoying their evening together