|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 16, 2005 14:41:09 GMT -5
This is a fanfic idea I thought up and wrote out. I decided I would share it with you all here. It's kind of lengthy so bear with me, but its a crossover of Wolf's Rain and the game Final Fantasy 8, but the story line is pretty good and it kinda fit. The wolves aren't in it right away, but they do come shortly, so just hang in there. Hope you like. The night was dark and stormy as wind blew frantically and lightening cracked through the sky. In one of the most populated cities, aside from Esthar, there was a knock upon the large door of the mansion that resided there. Within, the General of the Army in the area answered the door allowing the man that stood before him inside. Though it was a strange act the General meeting with someone this late at night, no one within the city really took notice due to the storms that were blowing through. The door clicked shut secluding the two men as something strange and wicked began to brew within this normally wonderful city. * * * * * It was a normal day within the large school, Garden. A place many people had come to learn combat skills and to become one of the ever so popular members of SeeD. The sea seemed calm now compared to the beast it had been made into by the storms the previous night, and the large ship had once again taken its spot back on the waters. As it floats calmly about we center in on a bench outside the library where a young woman, with feathered black hair, sits skimming through a thin paper back book. Rinoa Heartilly turned the page of the book she was reading and smiled to herself at the thought she had. She had been thinking of it for quite sometime now, but hadn't told anyone of her idea. Placing her finger in the spot she had stopped at, she rocked back on the bench still smiling then sat up looking around hoping no one had noticed and stood leaving the bench to go to the cafeteria. Selphie Tilmitt rushed into the cafeteria looking around frantically. Squall Leonhart looked up and watched her... slightly amused. "Looking for something, Selphie?" he asked her, a smile hinting on his lips. "Nope. Looking for someone!! Have you seen them?" she replied, placing her hands on the table in front of her. An eyebrow thingyed, Squall shook his head and replied, "I have no idea." "Rinoa, I am looking for Rinoa..." Rinoa overheard her friend talking to Squall and quickly shoved the book behind her back as she came up behind Selphie. She smiled over the short girls shoulder at Squall and said, "So you're looking for me? Whatever could it be for?" She took a seat at the table and stared up at Selphie, "Hi!" "Well," Selphie began, taking a seat next to Rinoa. "You remember when Zell became an instructor, and then the one girl transferred to that other Garden..?" She paused momentarily then continued, "Well, I applied for the instructor position, and Cid told me... that if I pass the exams, I can have it!!!" She squealed with excitement as she clapped her hands together several times quickly. A grin spread across Rinoa's face as she looked at Selphie, "Yea! That's wonderful news, and maybe..." she pulled the book out and laid it on the table it being a small book about becoming a SeeD, "When I start...you can be my instructor. So what do you guys think?" She passed a glance from Selphie to Squall, and then back to Selphie again a big smile on her face. Selphie blinked twice as a smile spread across her face, her green eyes sparkling as she squealed, "You're... gonna become SeeD!!? Oh, Noa!! That's great!!! Aahh!!!!” She gripped her friend in a tight hug, "This is GREAT!!" Squall looked at her in disbelief, "Really?" Rinoa recovered from Selphie's hug and then looked over at Squall and smiled again, "Well...yes. I've been thinking about it a lot, and I'm here but sometimes I still feel I dunno...out of place. So I decided to become a member of SeeD to get rid of that feeling. I know it's sudden, but I think I have all the potential to be one." Squall nodded, "I've always thought that." He leaned over, kissing her forehead, "I'll be there for you whenever you need me." "Me too!!" Selphie chimed in. She stood and smiled down, "Well, I have a lot of planning and studying to do. I'll catch ya'll later!!" She waved as she headed toward the door. "So when do you start? Have they told you yet?" Squall asked. Rinoa only smiled and moved over by him, "No…they haven't. I still have to go to Quistis's classroom and take the entry exam, but I think I'm ready." she then ruffled his hair and stood up, "Well...I'm feeling a bit hungry and I see they have something new on the menu. Sloppy Joes...so I'm gonna try them. Come on." she ended grabbing his hand and leading him across the cafeteria. Up on the second floor headmaster Cid walked down the hall and made it into Quistis's classroom. He smiled when he saw her, "It seems so nice to see you sitting behind that desk again. But aside from that...something came for you today." he walked to her and held out an envelope that was addressed from the Deling City Presidential Palace. "I'm not sure what it's about but I brought it to you immediately because it seemed very important." The letter read.... Dear Miss Trepe,
Your presence here at the Deling City presidential palace is greatly requested. We have come across a situation and need your help with it and would appreciate if you would respond very promptly. One request, we ask you come alone as it is only your services needed. No one else will be required to discuss this very important matter with you. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely, President Dole
Quistis read the letter over twice, a feeling of nervousness and self-doubt coming over her. She smiled up at Cid. "Thank you, sir." She placed the letter in her desk drawer. She then stood and requested, "If you'll excuse me, sir. I must find Commander Leonhart." She made her way to the door and looked back at him, "Thank you bringing it to me." She let her eyes fall to her feet and walked hurriedly out the door to find Squall. Quistis stepped into the cafeteria and looked around, having remembered Squall said something about being "slightly hungry". She looked around the lunchroom and found him sitting with Rinoa near the back. She waded her way through the sea of tables and chairs until she stood before the two and cleared her throat. "Excuse me, Squall..." He looked up and asked, "Yes?" "I would like to request a stop in Deling City..." she stated.”For some important business..." He nodded, "I'll send word to Nida immediately." "Thank you." She turned to Rinoa and informed her, "By the way, our next entry exam is in three days. I've added your name to the list of those taking the test. Is that alright?" Rinoa nodded seeing her friend seemed a little nervous, "That's fine Quistis. Is everything alright?" She nudged Squall in the side hoping he noticed it also. Quistis managed a smile and said, "Yeah. I've just got a couple of things I need to take care of there." Squall looked at Rinoa then at Quistis and replied, "Do you need any help with anything?" Quistis shook her head, "No. I think I can manage alright." "Then I'll send word to Nida. I'll send notice to you when we get there." "Thanks, Squall." She nodded to them and exited the cafeteria, heading to the library. Squall looked at Rinoa and asked, "You think something's wrong with Quistis?" Rinoa shook her head now unsure, “I don't know...I could be wrong but she just seemed nervous, and this trip to Deling City was just out of the blue. Then again...like I said I could be wrong and she could have just remembered something she needed to remind herself of." She only shrugged now still feeling as though something was wrong but only grabbed Squall's arm and hugged it tight. Eventually the large ship came to a rest outside the city and Rinoa now stood at the entrance, where she had been for a while, waiting for Quistis to get there. Quistis stepped off the elevator and pushed her glasses up on her nose. She walked down the steps and headed for the front gate, where she found Rinoa, as though she were waiting. She smiled and asked, "Waiting for Squall?" Rinoa shook her head and approached her friend, "No....I'm waiting on you. I was concerned as you seemed a little nervous a little while ago. I know you say everything is fine, but that feeling just wouldn't go away. Is everything alright? I'm sorry if I'm wrong and please tell me if I am." Quistis sighed, knowing she couldn't keep it a secret from Rinoa. She looked her friend in the eye and said, "I got a letter from Deling Presidential Palace. They requested me to come... alone. I'm excited, but uneasy and I don't know why. Perhaps it's the whole... going alone thing." Rinoa tilted her head to the side, "Really? Alone? Wow...must be important. He probably wants to see you only. I'd be honored, though I'd be nervous too. I've never met the new president. I hope he's better than Deling." She scoffed. Quistis sneered, "I'm sure an Elvoret could be better than Deling. You can accompany me to the Palace if you'd like. At least walk with me through the City. What do you say?" She held her elbow out to Rinoa... a smile on her face. "Of course!" she took her friends arm and walked by her side out of Garden and into the city.
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 16, 2005 22:25:51 GMT -5
Outside the palace Rinoa stopped and looked at the guard at the gate and then back at Quistis. The man came out to greet them and he stated boldly, "Unless you have an appointment...you'll have to leave. The president is very busy." "Instructor No. 14, Quistis Trepe, reporting from Balamb Garden. I have a summon from the President," Quistis introduced. She handed him the paper she had received that morning from Cid. The guard took the note and looked it over then nodded his head, "Alright...he's been expecting you Miss Trepe." He glanced over at Rinoa, "But I'm afraid you must stay here Miss." "I already know." She rolled her eyes, "Can I wait right here?" "Yes" he then handed the letter back to Quistis, "Come this way...I'll take you inside." he opened the gate and started through holding it open for a moment before walking on up the walkway. Quistis sighed and stepped through the gate, but turned back to Rinoa, "I'll be back in a little bit." Rinoa nodded and then walked over leaning on the post there beside the gate waiting for Quistis. The guard took Quistis up to the palace and through the large doors and led her through a large living room and into a hallway. He stopped just outside a large door marked President Dole and motioned that way, "Right through here." He then turned and nodded to her then exited so to return to his post. With a sigh, Quistis knocked gently on the door, and then opened it quietly, poking her head in. She cleared her throat, "Ahem... President... Dole... Sir... Instructor No. 14, Quistis Trepe, reporting from Balamb Garden." From the desk about four feet from the door a dark looking man with raven black hair looked up, his dark eyes falling upon Quistis. He stood to his full six feet and kept his eyes locked on her as he grinned, "Miss Trepe...I've been expecting you. Please come in." he motioned her toward him with his hand. Goosebumps running down the length of her body, Quistis swallowed hard. She felt sweat forming on her forehead and her hands became sweaty. Her heart began to race, but she found herself walking toward him, trying to hide the strange feeling she felt. She stood before him and stuttered, "S-sir. You requested to see me?" “Yes,” he continued, “I’m so glad you could come. Have a seat.” He offered as he came around to the front of the desk and seated himself on the edge of it. Quistis couldn’t shake the strange feeling she had, but continued forward and seated herself before him in the cushy chair. She merely glanced up at him with her eyes, unable to fully look at him but noticed his strange pointed ears from behind his hair which caused her to ask “Are you President Dole? You seem a little…young.” She cut her eyes to the side. He merely chuckled and then stated, “There is no reason to be nervous around me. I mean you no harm…I have merely called you here on business. I need your help. As for President Dole…you’re right…I’m not him. I am simply the one who handles all his business while he’s…away.” He said pressing his fingertips together. Quistis shivered a little and then raised her head now looking at him, “Away…so where is he?” “He’s away on long distance business…in another city. He’s expected to be away for a while, but if you must know I am the one who sent you the request. So…the question is…are you willing to help me?” “Well,” she thought a moment,” What is it you need help with?” “Miss Trepe…I have heard of you…a lot about you in fact. You were the first young member of SeeD to become an instructor, and one of the best if I remember right. You are very smart and though you’re position was lost for a while…I still see you as one of the smartest and most talented young women I have ever heard of and now had the pleasure to meet. To the point…I need the knowledge you possess to help me with a problem I’ve come across.” Quistis was taken aback by how much this stranger knew about her but trying to remain calm she answered, “As flattering as that is Sir…that still doesn’t tell me a thing about what you need my help for.” “Specifics…I need you to teach me everything you know about the junctioning system. I have found this quite fascinating and would love to learn more about it as I believe I could find many uses for it some that could even possibly benefit the city.” “The junctioning system? Oh my,” she shook her head, “This is something that only Balamb Garden has taught…I’m sure it’s not supposed to go outside the school…” The man slowly shook his head and leaned down to her face making her loose her calm as he stated, “It matters not if it has ever left the walls of your school…I need this knowledge and I never once told of what shall be if you aren’t willing to help me out. One way or another you will teach me what I need to know…even if I have to take you captive.” Quistis gasped and placed her hands on the arm of the chair ready to jump up but was caught off guard when a small woman with long blonde hair stuck her head in the door and asked, “Sir…is there anything I can get you?” He glared at her, “I thought I told you I DIDN’T want to be bothered!” “I…I’m sorry Sir.” Her eyes grew round and she quickly shut the door. Quistis jumped up and ran to the door and knocked on it as she called, “Please! Come back!” she pulled at the knob but found it impossible to open. Looking back over her shoulder she shuddered when she saw his hand going back to his side and she quickly turned facing him her heart racing again. Scared and feeling frozen by what was happening she reached down to her side and pulled out the long whip she held and flipped it out in front of her. The stranger only laughed at her then stood up walking to where she stood and reached out taking the hand with the whip in it. He lowered her arm to her side pressing her into the door with his body as he raised his free hand up to her face and took her jaw in his fingers. Quistis reached up with her left hand grabbing his wrist, but found his strength to exceed her own. She breathed heavily, staring into his face, but found she was growing sleepy as he began to wave his hand in front of her face and her nose was filled with a sweet fragrance. She fought to keep her eyes opened, but soon the feeling grew so strong she let them close and her whip fell from her hand as she grew limp in his arms. He grinned then picked her up exiting the room and walked down the hallway. * * * * * Meanwhile in a far off field a young looking girl with pale white skin and light lavender hair sat up looking about though in reality she couldn’t see a thing. Without standing she stared aimlessly off in the distance with her red but beautiful eyes and called out with a soft timid voice, “Kiba? Kiba where are you? This one doesn’t know where we are, Kiba!?” From across the field a young man with dark brown hair rushed to her side and knelt down beside her placing his hand on her shoulder as he assured her, “It’s alright. I’m right here Cheza.” “Kiba,” she spoke now looking toward him, “Where are we? This one doesn’t know anything here.” “I know.” His gaze wondered off looking across the field and a strange feeling was now taking over his senses, “Something isn’t right.” “Yes,” she told him, “This one knows.” She reached up and touched him, “You are different.” He stood back up now looking down and shivered at what he was feeling. He heard a low moan and turned looking six feet in the opposite direction and saw one of his companions sitting up now. He walked over and stood above him and asked, “How are you feeling Tsume?” A tall guy in leather and a short hair cut stood and rubbed his head casting a glance around before resting his eyes on Kiba, “Something is strange. What’s going on?” “I feel it too.” Kiba replied. “So you guys feel strange too.” Another said coming over the hill there running his fingers through his wild brown hair and then rubbed the back of his neck. Kiba turned to his friend, Hige, and nodded in agreement. Tsume stood on the hilltop and looked out across the horizon and noticed the petite figure of the smallest of them all sitting beside a pond on the land. He pointed, “There’s Toboe…but what’s he doing?” Kiba and Hige both looked that way and saw Toboe just sitting by the water and staring in. Tsume took off down the hill toward him as Hige followed and Kiba, after returning for Cheza, soon joined them. As Tsume neared the runt he stopped and looked down at him asking, “What are you doing down here?” Toboe only turned looking at him and then turned back to the water and pointed, “Something is wrong. In all my life when I would look at my reflection it would show me as a wolf, but now…” he leaned back out over the water. Tsume, a nervous feeling overtaking him, stepped up to the water and looked in, his eyes growing wide as he saw a human form appear.
|
|
|
Post by devinfire on Apr 16, 2005 22:47:06 GMT -5
This is just a small comment, but I must say that I have always fount Final Fantasy 8 and Wolf's Rain very identicle for some reason, to character design to the story portrayal. Although cross-overs are usually not my thing, I like yours and it's ideas.
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 17, 2005 0:12:59 GMT -5
Thank you...I believe the same also. They do seem a lot alike I think that's why I like them both so well. “What the hell kind of trick is this!?” he denied what he saw. “I don’t think it’s a trick Tsume,” Toboe told him, “I think we really are humans.” “Yes,” Cheza’s soft voice said from behind the two of them, “This one knows too…this one knew from the moment we woke up.” “That would explain the strange feeling.” Kiba added. “Wow,” Hige leaned over looking into the water, “Never thought I’d be seeing this.” “It’s not a joke!” Tsume turned to him, “What the hell is going on, and why do we look like this!?” “Please Tsume,” Toboe now stood, “Getting mad isn’t helping…we don’t know what happened either.” “Toboe’s right,” Kiba added, “I knew something was wrong but I wasn’t sure what it was. Now we know, but as for why or how this happened we still have to find out. Standing here all day isn’t going to get us any answers, so I suggest we start walking to find someone who might be able to help us out, or at least tell us where we’re at.” “Walk…where? We’re in the middle of nowhere.” Tsume pointed out, “And I don’t think your instinct is going to get us too far now. We’re no longer searching for paradise, which seems to be the only thing your nose can sniff out.” “Then you do better.” He only retorted. “Don’t fight guys,” Toboe stepped in, “I think we should just start walking somewhere…we’re bound to find something.” “I’m with the runt, but which way should we go?” Hige asked. They all turned their glances to where Tsume had already started walking off and Kiba merely pointed and began to follow still holding to Cheza’s hand. The other two fell in step behind them as they headed away from the hill. Rinoa sighed as she still waited by the post she had been standing by and walked over to where the guard stood. She cleared her throat then asked, “Excuse me…but do you know when my friend will be done? She’s been in there for quite sometime.” The guard looked down at her and then replied, “I don’t know…she has been a while but the president has his reasons for calling her, if you like… I can go ask.” “I’d appreciate it.” Rinoa nodded. The guard returned her nod then started up the walk until he was inside. He saw the young blonde woman and approached her as he asked, “Excuse me Miss.” She turned to him her face without expression, “Yes?” “There was a girl that came in here earlier…she’s been here for a while and she has a friend waiting outside. I was just wondering how much longer she was going to be.” “You mean the instructor from Balamb Garden?” “Yes…that’d be the one.” “Oh, well…she already left a while ago.” “Left?” he thought, “Odd…I could have sworn I never saw her leave, but I’ll take your word for it.” He smiled and then turned and exited the large house and once again found Rinoa at the gate. He informed her of what he was told and she stared at him confused. “Left but I don’t remember ever seeing her leave, and she knew I’d be waiting here for her.” “Well as he gatekeeper I would think I would have seen her too, but never did and they assure me inside she left a while ago. The attendant inside very well could have shown her out the back exit. It’s been known to happen.” Rinoa shook her head and then sighed, “Well…alright. Thanks for your help…I guess I’m going to return to Garden now.” “Your welcome.” He waved to her as she now walked down the street alone and toward the entrance of the city. Just outside the city as Rinoa made her way across the plains toward the large ship that waited she felt a breeze blow and turned to it as she noticed five figures headed her way. She stopped in her tracks and brought her hand up to her forehead so to shield her eyes from the sun, and tried to see who or what was coming. As they reached the top of the hill the city sat on she saw four guys and a girl coming her way. Across the way Kiba also noticed a single figure and pointed, “Look…we might have just found something.” “Alright!” Hige exclaimed, “And it’s a girl!” Tsume only rolled his eyes and shook his head as he continued onward toward the city, Toboe following closely behind. As they approached Rinoa they all stopped and exchanged glances until Rinoa stated, “You must be lost.” “Boy, are we ever.” Hige nodded with a smile. “How could you tell?” Toboe asked in his shy voice. “Well…normally people from around here wouldn’t be wondering out on the plains alone considering the things that are out there. It’s been a while since the Lunar Cry, and the monsters have been picked off mostly, but there are still some that linger.” “The what,” Tsume asked now looking at her. “The Lunar Cry.” She repeated. “What is the Lunar Cry?” Kiba asked. “It’s a long story.” she now took note of Kiba and her eyes widened as she gasped, “Oh, my gosh! You look so much like, Squall!” “Who,” he asked. “Ummm…no one, so where are you guys and girl,” she looked at Cheza, “headed?” “I wish we knew.” Kiba explained, “But at the time we don’t even know where we are.” “Oh,” she pointed behind her, “This is Deling City.” “What is that!?” Toboe asked pointing toward Garden. “It looks similar to a Noble Ship.” Tsume followed up. “That,” Rinoa turned back, “that’s Garden. It’s a school.” “Garden,” Tsume smirked, “You mean like with flowers and crops?” “No,” Rinoa laughed, “it’s called Garden as a catchy name…inside they train people to become members of SeeD.” “It all sounds catchy to me.” Hige added looking up at the ship. Kiba looked back and forth from the city to the ship and shook his head unable to decide on where to go. He looked at Cheza and saw her looking toward the city an uneasy look on her face. He stepped up closer to her, “What’s wrong Cheza?” “This one does not know….this one senses something within that city.” “Something bad,” Toboe asked nervously. “This one is not sure.” She hung her head. “It’s okay.” Kiba assured her, “we’ll find out soon what’s going on. Then we’ll have all of our answers.” “My,” Rinoa cut in, “sounds like you all have happened upon something bad. Is there anyway I can help?” Kiba only shook his head, “I don’t know. Is there anything you can tell us about this city?” “Well…it’s Deling, the second largest city around. Esthar is the largest, but this one is known for its pushy troops and crappy government.” “Sounds inviting,” Tsume grunted. “If you all would like…you are more than welcomed inside Garden. I know in there we could probably help you out in some way.” She offered. “I want to take a look around the city first.” Kiba still looked toward it thinking of what Cheza had said. His senses were still slightly there, and something called him inside as if telling him he would find something. Tsume only looked at him in disbelief, “And what exactly do you expect to find in that place?” “Some of our answers or maybe nothing at all, but we won’t find anything out if we don’t at least try to stay in touch with our gut feeling.” “I don’t know,” Toboe disagreed, “I feel kinda nervous…I mean after what Cheza said and all.” “I feel nervous too, but I’m going in…I don’t care if you guys stay here or not.” “I wanna go with her.” Hige said pointing to Rinoa. “So who’s going and who’s staying?” Kiba asked looking at them all. Toboe and Hige both stepped toward Rinoa leaving Tsume and Cheza standing by Kiba. Tsume tilted his head to the side, “I guess I’ll go along.” Kiba turned to Cheza, “Why don’t you stay here? I think it would be safer.” Cheza nodded and went over to where Rinoa stood and took a place beside Hige. Kiba cast a glance from Toboe to Hige and then said, “Take care of her. We’ll be back with hopefully some information.” “Please hurry,” Rinoa told them, “I don’t know how long they will keep Garden here. I know for a while longer, but I’m not exact on the length of time.” Kiba and Tsume both nodded and then turned and ran toward the city as Rinoa then took the other three and led them into Garden in hopes of finding them help.
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 17, 2005 0:29:23 GMT -5
Quistis sat up now looking around a bedroom and noticed she was on a bed. She slung her legs over the side and looked around wondering to herself how she got here. The memories of what had happened prior came to her mind and she shook her head wondering if her ever coming was foolish. She stood and walked around the room before trying the door, though she knew it was already locked, and wasn’t surprised when it didn’t budge. “Oh man Quistis…what have you gotten yourself into now.” She sighed and only stood at the edge of the bed thinking. There was a thump on the door and she jumped as it slowly opened and the same stranger now stood before her. Her eyes widened and she once again felt uneasy as she looked at him. He offered a smile as he came toward her, “Welcome back…I’m sorry things had to come to such awful actions, but I will do anything to learn what you know.” “Please,” she begged, “If you would just let me go back to Garden and ask if it’s alright first…it’d be better.” “That won’t be necessary.” He shook his head, “I have you here. You will be a guest in this house until the training is done, and you will only be locked up if you try to escape again. Otherwise…you may have the run of the house. I want you to feel as comfortable as possible and perhaps I can even get to know you a little better…Miss Trepe.” He smiled. Quistis felt her heart jump as he smiled at her and she knew there was absolutely no way out of this without getting a hold of her friends. She gave up with a sigh and nodded, “Alright…I will teach you.” “That’s a girl. Now…is there anything you have a question about or anything I can help you with. I don’t mean for you to fear me…it just somehow comes natural to those that meet me.” Keeping her thoughts contained she requested, “What’s your name? You seem to know a lot about me…but on the other hand I know nothing of you.” “You may call me Galadin. Most call me sir…but you are my special guest.” “Galadin.” She said and looked at her feet, “That’s a nice name, but I also have one more question…you’re not human…where are you from?” He only smiled and looked down also, “That…I’m afraid is a story for another time…for now I think it’s time to dine. Will you join me?” he held his arm out to her. Quistis looked at him and then at his awaiting arm and with hesitation reached out and hooked her arm in his feeling strange here with him like this. However she didn’t say a word as they walked out the door as she was also very hungry.
Kiba and Tsume ran through the city unsure of where they were going, but continued to search for something that wasn’t even identified. They ran until they came to the downtown area with all the stores and stopped due to a large crowd. Tsume glared at some of the people in the crowd and stated, “Don’t these people have anything better to do than shop?” “Well,” Kiba replied, “That is what this place if for I believe, so don’t complain and let’s start working our way though this mess.” “I guess.” He retorted and started pushing though people. About half way through the shopping arcade in the middle of the city, the crowd grew thick and it became virtually impossible to get through. Tsume stopped, clicking his tongue as he grew annoyed with all the people. Kiba reached back and held his hand out to contain him as he tapped on a woman’s shoulder. She turned, “Yes?” “What’s going on? Why is everyone secluded to this one area?” The woman smiled, “The president is bringing in another shipment of exotic animals he had ordered. He does this every so often and everyone gathers on the street to see what he has gotten this time.” “Exotic animals?” he turned back to Tsume who looked just as puzzled as he did until everyone began to “Ooh” and “Aahh” causing them to turn and look down the street. Up the paved street a large truck wobbled about with a large cage on the back of it. Though he couldn’t see what was in the cage at the moment Tsume felt his stomach grow sick and he knew they were about to find their something they had been searching for. Kiba felt the same sickness grow in his stomach and as the truck came down further he gasped when he saw within the cage a large white wolf. As he stared at what he used to be, the wolf turned and looked back at him and dashed to the same side Kiba stood and began to dig frantically at the bars and even grabbed them with its long sharp teeth. Tsume also watched the scene as he stared wide eyed at the grey wolf within the cage. He knew it was his missing wolf and it seemed to know too as it fought to free it’s self from the cage. Both men stood looking at the wolves that had strangely disappeared from them and knew they should do something, but anyone who even got close was shoved back by the horde of guards that surrounded the truck and cage. Kiba jumped toward the truck and grabbed the edge of the bed, but as he did he was knocked down and to the side by one of the guards. He knew all of his strength was in his wolf form and only succumbed to the guards blow. Tsume stood for a moment looking for a way in when he noticed a young blonde girl on the bed inside of the truck and decided to head for her. The girl stood beside the four caged animals not seeming to pay much attention when she turned and looked off into the crowd noticing him instantly. She turned and looked at him, their eyes meeting, and she spun to face him. Taken by him, the young woman offered a sweet smile but screamed when he jumped through the guards and grabbed hold of the side of the truck. He stared up at her, as the guards grabbed and pulled at him, screaming, “What are you doing!? Give them back!” The girl only looked at him confused by his request and reached out to grab his hand as he was pulled from the truck by several of the soldiers. They proceeded to wrestle him to the ground as they beat and kicked him with force, and a troubled look took over her face. Watching them she knew she had to do something and jumped from the truck onto the street as she screamed, “NO!” Rushing to where the soldiers still stood hitting him she pushed them aside and took a place next to the outsider from the crowd. Glancing down at him she reached out and touched his face now filled with sadness at his condition, then glared up at the soldiers demanding, “What gives you the right to do this to people!?” “The president, Miss. He’s the one that told us to get these animals to the palace by any means necessary.” One of them replied. “And is this your means!? To beat someone!” standing she glared at him in the eye, “Get out of here…I’ll tend to this myself.” The soldier simply nodded and turned motioning the others on as she took place next to the man again. Sighing she knew she had to get him off the street, as a crowd grew, and motioned to someone with her hand. Kiba sat up, his damage minimal, and looked around at the crowd now starting to thin out. He saw the truck was gone and grew angry, “Damn! Where did they take them?” He looked around for Tsume but saw no sign of him anywhere and began to start down the street calling, “Tsume!” The guard at the gate of the palace saw the young woman and rushed out to help her. Together they got Tsume into the palace and she quickly turned to the guard, “Please…take him to my room. I have to go report to the president about the shipment, but just leave him in there and I will tend to him when I am done.” “Okay.” He nodded to her and smiled as she raced off down the hallway toward the dining room. Just outside the large doors she slowed to a walk and went in trying to act calm. Walking into the room she stood at the end of the large table and announced, “Sir…your shipment was successful. It will be arriving at the palace shortly.” Galadin looked up at her and grinned, “Good…I will check it out after dinner. Thank you.” “You’re welcome sir.” She said and turned to leave but stopped in her tracks when he called back, “Oh and Kenzi?” “Yes?” she turned back. “Won’t you be joining us?” Simply shaking her head she smiled, “No thank you…I’m not hungry at the moment.” And turned leaving the room this time headed back down the hallway to her room.
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 17, 2005 21:30:32 GMT -5
Back at Garden, Rinoa had seated the three visitors in the cafeteria to wait as she went and got Squall. She now led him through the door and took him over to where they waited and introduced them, “Squall…these are the visitors, and well…this is our commander of Garden, Squall Leonhart.” “Nice to meet ya,” Hige said with a wave. “Like wise.” Squall nodded, “Rinoa tells me you guys have run into a bit of trouble. Trouble I’m hoping maybe we can help with.” “Yeah,” Toboe agreed as a thought crossed his mind, “and you do look a lot like Kiba.” “What?” Squall looked at him now confused. “Nothing.” He shook his head feeling a bit embarrassed. Squall only passed a glance to Rinoa and then continued, “Well…first of all I need to know your situation.” “We’re lost.” Toboe informed him, “And strange things are happening to us.” Hige nudged him in the side and shook his head then looked up at them and grinned, “What he means is…we don’t know where we are, and well basically we just appeared here.” “No it’s not…what I mean is…” Toboe argued but hushed when Hige reached up and placed his hand over Toboe’s mouth. Hige’s grin widened, “Heh…the runt is just crazy.” “I am not Hige!” he pulled Hige’s hand from his mouth, “In order for them to help us we have to tell them the truth! Even if it does sound a little,” he paused and lowered his head, “crazy.” “Well tell us,” Rinoa assured, “Trust me we’ve seen some strange things happen. The truth may not be that much worse than what we’ve already seen, and he’s right…it would help out to know exactly what we’re dealing with.” Cheza just sat by listening to them all talk and wondering if Kiba was alright. She then looked toward Rinoa and Squall in hopes they could help out. Toboe only looked at Hige and then continued again, “Back in our world…we were wolves. Our world is ending and we were on a journey to find this place called Paradise. We don’t know how we got here other than we were sucked into this huge hole in the sky, but when we woke up we were no longer wolves, but humans…just like you guys.” Hige only placed his face in his hands knowing how crazy it must have sounded and was wondering if Rinoa and Squall would believe it at all. Squall sighed and shifted his position, “Well…I don’t know how you got here either, but I bet if we do some deep searching we can find the answer you’re looking for. People just don’t fall out of the sky for no reason around here without something being up. As far as the wolf thing goes…I’m just as clueless on that. Rinoa tells me you have some friends in Deling City…maybe they can come back with some information that will help us out a little more. I guess until then we just wait…that’s about all we can do.” “You don’t think we’re crazy?” Toboe asked feeling insecure. “No.” Rinoa smiled, “We don’t…when you’ve fought evil scary sorceress’s and such…that seems so small.” “Thanks.” Toboe smiled back. “Rinoa,” Squall turned to her, “Why don’t you give them a tour while we wait on their friends. Once they get here we’ll see what we can come up with.” She nodded and then motioned to the door, “Wait out there…I’ll be out in a moment.” Hige, Toboe and Cheza all stood and walked just outside the door as Rinoa turned to Squall, “There’s something I need to ask you?” “Okay.” “Have you seen Quistis return from Deling? They assure me there she left a while ago, but I never saw her and she knew I was waiting. It just seem so odd to me.” “I haven’t seen her, and I was to be informed when she got back…I don’t know. While you show them around I’ll ask around to see if anyone else has seen her.” “Okay.” She nodded, “Well…I guess I’m off.” “Alright, come get me when their friends get back.”
Rinoa waved to him and then walked out the door to meet with the others and help them to get to know Garden a little better.
Kiba, though a little sore from the beating he had received from the guards, ran as fast as he could to the entrance of the city. He had been unsuccessful in finding Tsume and was beginning to wonder if the soldiers had killed him. As he ran past a car rental building out into the open part of the plains he looked into the distance at the Garden still sitting there and sighed relief. After placing his hands on his knees to catch a breath he dashed off toward the large ship and inside as a man in a glass case at the entrance hollered at him. Kiba only ignored him continuing on into the covered area searching for a sign of his friends or someone that could help. He stopped once again in front of a large directory at the front of two crossroads looking it over, and as he stood there he heard some footsteps behind him turning to a tall guy with a cowboy hat on. “Howdy,” the young man greeted, “Something you need help with?” “My friends,” he requested as he turned, “Where are they?” “Oh wow…I didn’t know Squall had a brother.” “I don’t know anyone by that name…I’m here to find my friends. Where are they?” “Calm down man…I’m sure their here somewhere…” he thought of what to do when from the stairs Squall came down and saw Irvine conversing with the stranger. He knew it must be one of them that returned from Deling and made his way over clearing his throat, “What’s going on?” “This guy’s lost, and he says he’s got friends here.” “He does have friends here Irvine.” Squall cast him a glance. “Oh…well I didn’t know. Next time you guys should inform me.” He grinned and then tipped his hat as he walked on. Squall only sighed and looked back at Kiba, “You’re friends are here…Rinoa’s showing them around right now.” “I have to speak with them…immediately.” Kiba told him. Squall nodded and then waved him on as he headed back up the stairs and to the second floor. Down on the first floor within the Quad, Rinoa stood with the other three still showing them around. Toboe ran about trying to take in everything at once, “Wow…this place is beautiful.” “Yeah…it’s nice,” Hige commented, “But don’t you think Kiba and Tsume should be back by now…I mean it’s been a while.” Rinoa looked his way, “We can go check if you want.” “Sounds good.” He nodded then looked around, “Hey! Where’s Cheza!?” Toboe shrugged, “She was here…I don’t think she’s gone far.” He looked about for her and then stepped out on a balcony finding her there basking in the late sun. She smiled as she stood there and stated, “This one likes it in this place.” Hige grinned, “Yeah…I guess so.” “Come on Cheza…we’re gonna go see if Kiba’s back.” Toboe told her taking her hand. She nodded following him as the four of them started out of the Quad. Just as they reached the door an announcement came over the intercom requesting them all to come to the second floor, and Rinoa led them that way so they could meet up with Squall. Soon they walked through the door upstairs and Cheza quickly ran toward Kiba hugging him, “Kiba! This one is happy you are back.” “Me too, Cheza.” He hugged her back. Toboe looked around a bad feeling coming over him as he asked, “Yeah but…where is Tsume?” Kiba only shrugged, “I don’t know. We got separated from each other in a crowd of people and I searched for him, but I couldn’t find him anywhere. I think the soldiers might have gotten him.” “Soldiers,” Toboe exclaimed. “Oh yeah…the wonderful soldiers of Deling City,” Rinoa rolled her eyes, “They take anyone prisoner they can…it doesn’t matter the reason.” “You seem to know a lot of that city,” Kiba looked at her, “How is that?” Unsure if she wanted to bring it up but deciding it would be best she stated, “My father is the General of the Army there…and the reason the soldiers are the way they are.” “Then maybe you could help out.” “I don’t know…we don’t get along too well.” “Why not,” Toboe asked sadly. “He’s my father but I don’t believe the way he does…we’re totally different people. I may be able to find out where your friend is, but no promises.” “We’ll do what we can.” Squall stepped in placing his hand on Rinoa’s shoulder. She looked up at him and touched his hand saying, “So when do we go to Deling City?” “Now…as it will be dark soon. We can’t take everyone, but if one of you chooses to come you need to decide who it’s going to be.” “I’ll go!” Toboe bounced, “Tsume is my friend…and I’d like to know he’s alright. Can I go Kiba…please?” Kiba nodded to him and Toboe joined Rinoa and Squall as they went out the door and into the hallway. As they walked Squall looked at Rinoa, “No one has seen Quistis, and they did say she had left?” “Yes…that’s what that guard told me, but Squall I was standing right there the whole time and I never saw her. He said she could have been showed out the back exit, then again she knows her way back to Garden… I can’t figure why she wouldn’t make it back.” “I’m figuring she didn’t. I’m not sure what’s happened or even what’s happening, but we’ll find out someway or another.” “I hope so.” She frowned as she thought of Quistis. Toboe only followed behind them kicking his feet up as he walked.
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 17, 2005 21:43:53 GMT -5
Tsume’s eyes slowly opened and he heard a soft voice singing. He looked at the ceiling and as his eyes focused he looked to his right at the young blonde woman sitting there admiring the scar on his chest as she traced it with her finger. He jolted up off the bed looking over at her as he shouted, “What are you doing!? Get your hands off me!”
Shocked she stared at him upset as she replied, “I was just trying to help…you were hurt badly and I didn’t want the soldiers to beat you anymore.” “Soldiers?” he said lowly as he remembered what had happened thinking of the truck, the cage, and what was in the cage. He got up off the bed gazing across the room at her and with a hateful tone asked, “What did you do with those wolves?” “The wolves?” she exchanged his glance, “I don’t have them. I only know how many there were, but I know nothing of where they are now.” “Then who does!?” “Please!” she jumped up and quickly went over placing her finger to his mouth, “No more shouting…I’ll get in trouble if I get caught with you here. You’re supposed to be imprisoned or dead, but…” Tsume, stunned at her, reached up moving her hand aside and walked across the room wondering what was going on. He turned back to her, “So you don’t even know me but you helped me out. Why?” She only shrugged, “I…I don’t know. Those soldiers think they can boss anyone and hurt whoever they want…I get so tired of that.” “How do you get out of here?” He asked as he went to the door and opened it looking out. She gasped rushing over, shutting the door in front of him and shook her head, “You can’t be seen. I will surely pay if he finds you here.” “Who is he? Stop talking in riddles!” “Nobody…I will get you out, but please just be patient with me. I have to do this my way. Will you please wait just a while?” Tsume stepped back from the door and looked at the far wall avoiding looking at her and merely nodded. She smiled, “Thank you.” Down in another part of the palace Galadin walked into the room and met up with the soldiers that had been guarding the truck during the delivery. He approached one of them asking, “Are they all there?” “Yes,” the soldier replied, “all four of them. Even the white one…as you specifically requested.” “Good.” He grinned evilly, “Keep them here for now…I’ll be back for them as soon as I’m ready.” “Sir…something strange happened as we were bringing them in. Two men from the crowd seemed very interested in getting to these wolves. We took one of them down but your assistant came over and told us to leave him alone.” “What…” he turned back, “Kenzi!?” “Yes…we were going to bring him in to you, but she said she would take over from there and demanded us to leave. We thought her orders came from you so we allowed her to leave with him.” Galadin reached up and whacked the guard in the head, “What were you thinking!? Only my orders come from me! Don’t take anything that nitwit has to say seriously or next time I take it out of your hide! Now return to your post…and no one is to know of these animals now. No one!” “Y-yes sir.” He cowered down and quickly went back to the cage to keep watch over the wolves. Galadin, angry now, turned walking from the room but once he was outside the door stopped and grinned, “So they did survive…a slight miscalculation but one that will be fixed quickly. Starting with the one that is here now.” He tensed with resentment as he started down the hallway toward Kenzi’s room. Kenzi paced around her room trying to think of a way to get Tsume out without being noticed and decided she would just have to try and sneak him out. Opening the door she looked out seeing no one, but gasped when she saw Galadin come around the corner headed her way. She quickly pulled her head back in and spun to face Tsume, “Hide! He’s coming!” “Who!?” he faced her, “and where!?” “I don’t know, but he’ll kill you for sure! We have to leave now!” she reached out grabbing his hand and slung the door open now dragging him behind her as she ran down the hallway. As they came into view Galadin stopped in his tracks shouting in a rage down the hallway, “KENZI!” She only screamed throwing her free hand to her ear when she heard his voice but continued to run gripping tightly to Tsume’s hand as her only goal was to get him out of the palace. Tsume pulled his hand from hers and stopped for a moment looking back at Galadin wondering what the big deal was. Kenzi stopped also and grabbed his sleeve pulling, “Don’t stop! We have to go!” “I can take that guy!” Tsume growled. “No…you don’t understand!” she cried, “He WILL kill you…RUN!” “But I don’t see anything extraordinary about him!” he argued. Before they knew it Galadin was upon them and had grabbed Tsume up. Kenzi gasped thinking and quickly ran to Galadin hitting him with her body causing Tsume to fall to the floor. Growing angry at her Galadin picked her up by the hair of her head and screamed, “Foolish girl! Why don’t you make yourself useful and get out of my way!” he tossed her to the side and as she hit the wall she looked back at Tsume and pointed, “Keep running…that way,” she stammered, “you’ll find a way…out.” Tsume only hesitated a moment more as he stared at her now until she screamed at him once more to run and he turned running down the hallway away from Galadin. Galadin watched him go, knowing he could catch him if he wanted too, but turned to the other problem at hand…Kenzi. Looking up at him as he came near her she tried to stand but felt tired and unable to get up at the moment. He came and picked her up by her shirt and growled lowly, “How dare you betray me…no one betrays me and lives.” “Then…kill me…why don’t you. I’m tired of being here anyway. Giving in to all your demands, and lying to people so you can go on in the president’s place.” “B*tch, you are here because of me! Don’t you ever forget that!” he carried her back to her room opening the door and staring in, “Now you will remain a prisoner here for eternity…to do my bidding whenever I please, but for now…I have to catch your little friend to make him suffer and you will watch as I know this will make you suffer also!” he tossed her in the door slamming it shut then grinned as he chanted some words and it disappeared leaving only a wall. Kenzi stood from the floor and walked over slowly, falling on the bed. She thought of Tsume and hoped he had gotten far enough to escape from Galadin, then buried her face in the pillow there and cried feeling hopeless.
Back at Garden, Kiba still sat in the second floor classroom with Hige and Cheza thinking about what he had encountered in Deling. Cheza sat worried about him as she could tell he was bothered and asked, “Kiba…is everything alright?” “No,” he shook his head, “Everything is bad…aside from Tsume missing.” “Well did you guys find anything in that city?” Hige asked standing. “We did.” He thought of the four wolves, “I saw us…in a cage.” “Us,” Hige grew confused, “but…” he thought a moment when it dawned on him, “Really? You saw our wolves?” “Yes…there was a woman that said it was for the president’s collection of exotic animals, so the cage was heavily guarded. I tried to get to them, but I failed…without my strength I’m useless.” He hung his head. “Damn it Kiba! Why didn’t you tell them about this!? It would have helped and maybe they could have helped us get them back!” “Stop yelling Hige!” he jumped up, “I didn’t tell them because I don’t think they would understand…how are we supposed to explain to them that we are, or should be, those wolves. It’s not an easy thing to understand. Besides…who’s to say they would still be willing to help after they find out what we really are?” Hige crossed his arms, “Who’s to say they wouldn’t?” “I’m not saying they wouldn’t but…” “But what…there is no reason. We don’t have to be afraid anymore…we’re like them now, and unless we get some help we’re going to stay this way forever. Then you can forget about everything…paradise…everything.” “No one but me really believed in it anyway.” He glared. “We did…we do believe, but sometimes we just loose hope like any other…just like now. These people already know about what we were, and they are more understanding than most humans. I think we should give them a chance to help us.” Kiba’s expression changed and he stared at Hige, “Who told them?” “Believe it or not…Toboe, I didn’t want him to either at first, but he knew we should to get help, and well…they understood. They were confused, but agreed to help us find out what we could about it.” Kiba only chuckled to himself and shook his head then nodded, “Alright. It may be our only way to get this fixed so when they return we will tell them about what we found.” “Alright.” Hige nodded, “Geez…why do we always have to argue to get things settled out? It makes me hungry.” He rubbed his stomach, “I am hungry. Wanna join me to get something to eat?” “Is there something around?” “Sure…they showed us this great place a while ago. Come on…I’ll show you.” He grinned then started out the door. Kiba reached out taking Cheza’s hand and together they followed behind Hige.
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 18, 2005 11:04:22 GMT -5
Outside of Caraway’s mansion Rinoa stood at the door speaking with the doorman there and trying to get him to let her in. He only shook his head, “I’m sorry, but the General has asked me not to let anyone in.” “Oh please,” she grew aggravated, “I’m his daughter…I think family should at least count. Go in and ask him if you don’t think he wants to see me.” “I’m sure there is no problem with him seeing you, but you have others with you and I don’t think he would enjoy me letting them in also. I can let you pass to see him, but these two will have to stay here I’m afraid.” “Then I’ll go alone.” Squall reached out and took her arm and shook his head as she looked at him, “I don’t know if that’s such a good idea Rinoa. Remember what happened the last time.” “Squall,” she smiled at his concern, “this is the only way. I’ll be fine, don’t worry.” “I’ll be waiting right here. I don’t care if some people want me here or not.” He glared at the doorman. The little man only looked up at Squall and grinned nervously as he agreed, “Yes…you may wait here…that will be fine.” “I’ll be back shortly.” She waved walking on through the door and into the house. She made her way through the halls until she reached a door at the end of house and went in the room. Behind the desk sat an older man with salt and pepper colored hair that looked up at her when she came in. He smiled as he stood greeting, “Rinoa…it’s been a while and quite frankly I didn’t think I would see you again.” “Not to sound hateful or anything, but I’m basically here on business.” She informed him. He nodded stepping from behind the desk and approached her, “I kind of thought, but I always hope that someday will come back to see me in a visit.” “Later,” she waved her hand, “right now I need to find something out.” “What might that be?” “We have some friends that came here and well it seems some of your soldiers jumped on one of them and we haven’t seen him since. The other was beaten also, but he managed out of it…I was wondering if you knew anything about it?” “Well…they usually report to me when they have taken someone captive, but I haven’t received any such reports today at all. The majority of the soldiers were out with the president’s shipment that was coming in and they will stop anyone that tries to take advantage of such a situation.” “Shipment, what kind of shipment?” “Now, now Rinoa…that’s classified information and if I were to give it out I wouldn’t be much of an officer now would I?” “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve heard, but I guess if it makes you feel better to make that excuse…then so be it. I hope you haven’t heard of their friend and are keeping it a secret because we really would like to know if he was taken.” “I swear I haven’t heard of anything like that.” He held his hand up as an oath. Rinoa only sighed knowing this was going no where fast but then did take into consideration the fact he may not have been brought in and wondered if something worse could have happened to him. The General watched her stating, “Well if that is all…I must be getting back to work.” “Yes…that’s it. Thank you.” She turned and started back to the door. “Rinoa,” he called to her. “Yes?” she turned back momentarily. “I do miss you.” “Yes…I know. Goodbye General.” She waved then walked on out the door and made her way back out. Squall and Toboe stood still waiting and went to her when she came on the porch. Squall saw her expression and asked, “Is everything alright?” “Yes…its fine.” She looked toward Toboe, “That man said he hasn’t received any such report of anyone being brought in. I’m not sure what happened to your friend.” She looked at her feet. Toboe’s head dropped also and he sighed, “I hope Tsume’s alright.” “However,” she stopped and looked back at the doorman listening and grew angry as she turned and started down the walkway back toward the street. She turned facing Squall and Toboe once again, “As I was saying…he did mention a shipment the president received. I don’t know what was in this shipment, but I understand the security was high to keep people out. I’m betting this is when your friend disappeared.” “Well thank you anyway…I just hope wherever he is…he’s okay.” Toboe said sadly. Squall turned and looked down the street as the lights began to light up and pointed out, “It’s getting dark…we should head back to Garden.” Toboe nodded at him and followed now downhearted his feet dragging now instead of kicking up. As they walked through the city Rinoa and Squall both noticed an abundance of soldiers out and about. “What’s up with this?” she asked looking around. “I was just wondering the same thing.” He replied as he kept walking. Toboe listened to them and quickly went on guard feeling a little paranoid at all the eyes on them. Down by the arcade Squall stopped a bus and they got on noticing the same thing on the vehicle as troops seemed to be on every corner and every street. Going to the back of the bus, Toboe took a seat and stared out the window watching one of the guards noticing him when he spun quickly and hollered, “Hey!” Then from an alley a figure ran out knocking the soldier down and Toboe instantly knew it was Tsume. He jolted up out of his seat and hollered from the back, “Stop the bus!” The driver instantly slammed on his breaks throwing Toboe forward and onto the isle in the middle of the seats. Rinoa and Squall were quickly at his side helping him up Squall asking, “What is it?” “I saw Tsume! We have to help him!” Without a moments hesitation all three of them ran to the front of the bus and jumped off now facing the direction where Tsume had knocked the guard down. The guard was getting to his feet now and pointed showing the other soldiers, “He went that way!” A group of them took off down the street in pursuit as Squall led his team onward to follow. They followed as close as they could when they rounded a corner and found five soldiers there with Tsume cornered. “Heh…you’ve given us quite a run for our money.” One sneered at him. “Yeah,” another agreed, “but we just can’t afford to loose you. The president has set up a special meeting with you, and he likes to be answered promptly.” “I’m not going that easily.” Tsume growled back at them holding his stance. All the guards pulled out long black sticks and continued toward him ready to take him by force when from nowhere it seemed they were knocked to the side and Squall now stood before them his gunblade drawn. They stared at him bewildered and laughed, “Are you sure you wanna get in on this?” “Only if you want to bring me into it,” He sneered with a crooked grin, “but if you leave now…you can leave unhurt.” “We have orders by the president to bring him in…so stand aside.” “And I have orders to bring him in also…so I guess now is to decide who he goes with.” Rinoa stepped in next to Squall and looked at the soldiers, “You know…I should tell the General how you’re acting.” One laughed at her, “Don’t be stupid…he’s the one that gave us this order from the president. He’s in on this as much as us.” Rinoa’s mouth dropped open and she pulled her weapon out as she rumbled, “That lying bastard.” Tsume watched them then declared, “I can handle them myself!” Squall only shook his head then looked back at him, “Just go get that kid and get out of here…we’ll meet you at the entrance in a bit.” “Kid?” he looked past them at Toboe and nodded then ran past the soldiers grabbing Toboe by the arm. Toboe smiled up at him as they ran, “Tsume! Boy am I glad to see you!” He only ignored the outburst and continued on as a battle started back in the alley way.
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 18, 2005 11:14:31 GMT -5
Outside Deling City Tsume and Toboe waited for Rinoa and Squall after having slipped by the rest of the soldiers that remained in the city. Tsume stood looking off into the distance at Garden and sighed turning to Toboe, “I guess now we go to that place.”
“It’s not so bad,” Toboe assured, “The people there are really nice…Cheza likes it.” “Heh,” he only laughed, “But what are we supposed to do now besides float around in the thing and twiddle our thumbs.” He looked down at his hands and twiddled his thumbs still trying to come to terms with the fact he could actually use his hands. Toboe only shrugged, “I don’t know…did you guys find anything? I mean with all the time you were gone you were bound to find something.” “Not necessarily,” he huffed, “but…we did find ourselves.” “What,” Toboe faced him, “What do you mean Tsume?” “The missing part of us that we lost…I saw it and I know Kiba did too. I just don’t understand why it was…” he tried to think, “never mind. I don’t understand anyways…so why am I trying to explain it to anyone else.” “But…how did this happen? How did we get like this while our wolves are still running around?” “I don’t know!” he grew agitated by all the questions and shook his head, “I don’t know…but they weren’t just running around. They were in a cage.” “A cage,” Toboe looked down at his feet, “Who would put them in a cage?” “Don’t ask so many questions,” Tsume faced away, “I can’t think right now…” he closed his eyes and saw Kenzi in the back of his mind wondering what had become of her. A slight breeze blew over the hilltop and when he turned back Rinoa and Squall were coming from the city just as the first star appeared in the sky. Toboe went to them, “How did you guys ever beat all those soldiers?” “We’re trained for it.” Squall informed him then went to Tsume, “Are you alright?” “I’m fine.” He said but slightly brushed Squall off. Squall only shook his head and went back to Rinoa, “I guess we need to get back in Garden.” “What about Quistis?” Rinoa asked. “I don’t know…I would say stay and find something out, but it’s not safe for Garden to be on the ground at night…we should get it at least out to sea.” “Yes…but we will come back and check right?” “Yeah…first thing tomorrow we’ll start a search for her. She could be anywhere so we will probably do a search in some areas around Deling also.” “Alright.” She nodded. He took her hand and started back toward Garden and called to Tsume and Toboe as he went. Tsume turned toward Deling City one last time before slowly walking off toward the ship, and shook his head trying to shake Kenzi from his thoughts. He sighed unable too and continued on up to the large ship in silence.
Kenzi awoke still laying on her pillow and rose up looking at a wet spot where her face had been. She wiped any remaining tears from her eyes then stood up from the bed. She began to wonder what time it was and figured Tsume must have gotten away since Galadin didn’t return with him. Sighing she walked over to the window and stared out at the new night sky and had thoughts of escaping from this place permanently but was wondering how she could ever pull it off. Leaning in she pushed the window open and looked down below at the ground wondering how much it would hurt to jump. She shook her head and knew it wouldn’t be a good idea, but began to search for another alternative. A movie she had seen at one time popped into her head and she remembered something about how someone had tied bed sheets together and climbed down causing her head to turn to the bed. Pulling at the clothing on the bed she pulled it all off and began to quickly tie them together hoping it would really work. Pulling at the knots she confirmed they were tight enough and tossed one end out the window while she searched with her eyes for something heavy to tie the other end to. Deciding the knob on the end of the bed would work she grabbed the frame trying to drag it as close to the window as possible but found it a lot harder than it looked. After a few minutes she had successfully pulled the bed close enough to tie the sheets too, and tied them good and tight. Nervous but full of anxiety she pulled herself up into the window, looking down as she did, then pulled her rope into her lap. Anticipating the moment she turned her back to the outside and let go hoping the knots would hold. She smiled to herself when they did, but cringed trying not to scream as the bed scooted a little causing her to bump. Gathering her nerves after the scare she slowly slid down until she came to the end noticing she was still a few feet from the ground, but decided it wasn’t that far and let go screaming as she fell. Kenzi sat up after hitting the ground knowing she had made it, but in the process she had hurt her ankle. Concluding she would make it she stood even if with a slight limp and began to head around the large house. Just as she was about to go around the corner she stopped just outside a vent leading to the basement of the house when she heard whining and digging. Getting down on her hands and knees she peered in trying to see what the noise was but her view was blocked by some crates that sat there. Being pretty positive the sound she heard was the wolves the stranger had mentioned she came up with a plan to get inside to take a look. Reaching into her pocket she pulled out a small coin and began to undo the large screws that held the vent onto the house. Quietly after she pulled the vent off and laid it on the ground in the shrubs next to her and turned putting her feet through the narrow hole first. She slid down not feeling the floor and knew she would have to drop, so let go and fell to the floor hurting her ankle again. She grabbed it and rubbed it until it didn’t throb as much then stood and limped her way around the crates until she saw the large cage the four wolves were still captive in. Before heading out into the open she glanced around for any guards, but didn’t see any in the room at the moment and figured they must be on break. She stepped out into the open and started toward the cage her steps alerting the trapped animals. A low growl arouse from the cage and she stopped now looking at the white wolf standing, and only watched him her breath caught slightly in her throat. Trying to make her mind up she slid down and began to crawl on her hands and knees toward the cage as another one was alerted and stood up. She scooted up just out of arms length of the cage as the white wolf’s growls became deeper and more threatening. Knowing she had to she slowly lowered her head and raised her arm putting her hand up just inside the cage…waiting to see what would happen. The white wolf grew angry and lunged at her hand, but only hit the grey one which had stepped over in front of it. It turned to her, still leery but leaned in and smelled of her hand picking up Tsume’s scent on it. Its ears lowered and it whined as its warm tongue came out licking her. Startled Kenzi looked up now and noticed the grey wolf wondering why it had reacted the way it did, but while she was this close took the opportunity to study each one closely. She noticed one of the brown ones in the back had a collar on, but most of all she noticed the scar on the grey one’s chest. She gasped as her eyes spotted it and a vision of the scar that had been on the stranger’s chest flashed in her mind. Wondering how it could be the same for both she began to ponder on something, but her concentration was broken when she heard a door open and voices came into the room. Jumping up she quickly limped her way back to the crates just as three guards came into the room. The grey wolf whined about now missing the scent she had carried and dug at the cage trying to get out once more. Kenzi knew she had to get out and jumped grabbing the edge of the hole but found it harder to get out of than it had been to get in. Shaking with fear of being caught she kicked hard trying to get back through the hole when one of her feet hit the crates making a loud thumping noise. The guards in the room all turned when they heard it and rushed to the crates seeing her feet still inside. “Hey!” one hollered reaching out grabbing her ankle. Kenzi was well on her way out when she felt him grasp her leg and screamed as she wriggled and kicked to free herself. The guard fought to hold on to her, but yelled when her foot came back and kicked him in the eye. Managing to get out the rest of the way Kenzi ignored the pain in her ankle now as she jumped up and started around the side of the house. At the front gate she saw a new guard there and picked up a stone and threw it to divert his attention so she could make it out the gate. As she ran onto the streets and was making up her mind which way to go she heard several soldiers coming from the house in pursuit of her. Rushing off down the first path that was convenient she raced off into the night trying to avoid the on coming soldiers. She ran all the way across the city to escape them and to reach the entrance until she finally reached the plains outside. Knowing the soldiers were right behind her she looked in the distance at Garden and ran toward it, but cried out when it lifted off the ground to leave. “No!” she hollered as tears streamed down her face, “Please come back!” She quickly stood back up on her feet as she heard the soldiers hollering about and wondered now what she would do to escape. She looked off into the far distance at a set of cliffs and knew if she could make it there she had a good chance of hiding. Without hesitation she dashed off in that direction disappearing from sight.
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 18, 2005 11:20:51 GMT -5
Back in Garden Squall had called an important meeting on the second floor for those that were new there. He stood before the group and placed his hands together as he sat on Quistis’s desk. He sighed, “Well it seems we’ve at least gotten you all back together, but we haven’t found much out about what’s going on. In fact…we’ve really found nothing at all.” Kiba stood now and looked up at the front of the room, “But we do know something.” “Oh?” Squall looked up at him. “Tsume and I both saw a shipment the president was receiving. The shipment was the wolves that are now missing from us. We don’t know much past that, but we do know it was us and that it was indeed for the president.” Rinoa nodded, “Yes…the General mentioned the shipment, but he wouldn’t say what it was. That’s why…they are hiding something I bet.” “Always,” Squall agreed, “But we need to find out more before any action can be taken. To go in and just directly attack the presidential palace would be a bad mistake on SeeD as then we would have the entire Galbadian Army on us. We need to use a strategy to get us in and until we know more…nothing can be done.” “We need a link inside.” Rinoa said. “That would help, but on top of that…one of our instructors is still missing. She disappeared just before you guys appeared…I’d be judging wrong I bet to say they aren’t connected in some way.” “So what now,” Tsume asked, “Sit around until something comes to us?” “No,” Squall shook his head, “we’ll return tomorrow to Deling, but night time is a vulnerable time for Garden so the best place is on the water while we rest. Tomorrow we will start a search for answers not only in Deling but around it also.” “So what until then,” Toboe asked. “Rest…we’re all going to need it. I’ve set you all up with rooms here in our dormitory, but you’ll have to share.” He stood and went over handing a tag with a number on it to Tsume and then one to Kiba, “You can choose who stays with you, and Rinoa has already said its fine for the girl to stay with her.” Kiba shook his head, “No…Cheza stays with me.” “Very well then…we’ll think up something.” He looked at Rinoa. She only shrugged and looked across the room, “I guess if someone else wants to share that would be fine…its two separate rooms.” Hige shyly raised his hand, “I will…I mean…well I’ll share a room with you.” He grinned. Rinoa nodded and smiled back. Tsume only looked over at Toboe and shrugged, “Well I guess that leaves the runt with me.” “Yeah,” Toboe nodded, “but it’s alright with me.” “Then it’s settled…I might suggest you all get a bite to eat in the cafeteria if you’re hungry then head to bed…it’s going to be a long day tomorrow.” Squall told them. Kiba agreed with a nod and then stood up with Cheza and walked from the room to go and find their room. Hige came to Rinoa and grinned, “So can you show me where I’m at?” “Sure,” she nodded and took a tag out of her pocket, “Just go to the dormitory and find this number. The empty room is yours.” “Gee…thanks.” He smiled and took it as he left the room. Rinoa looked toward Squall and went over hooking her arm in his, “Tired?” “Very…but I’m also hungry. Want to join me for a bite to eat?” “Sure.” She nodded then headed out the door with him. Toboe went over to Tsume and looked up at him, “So are we gonna go find our room?” Tsume tossed him the label, “Knock yourself out,” he said and then turned going out the door and to the left. Toboe only frowned knowing something was bothering him, and followed out the door. Tsume had found his way to the balcony on the second floor and went over leaning on the railing looking out at the water below. He sighed as he stared at the reflection of the moon in it and wondered what he would be doing now if he was still a wolf. He closed his eyes to think but when he did the same image of Kenzi flashed through his mind and he grew angry pounding his fist on the rail. “Tsume?” said Toboe’s shy voice from behind him. He turned and looked at him but only turned back staring at the water. Though he tried to ignore Toboe, the littlest always seemed to be so persistent to carry on. Toboe joined him at the rail and crossed his arms over it resting his chin there. He looked over at Tsume, “Why are you angry?” “No reason…” Tsume replied. “There has to be a reason…I mean this is hard on all of us, but you seem to be taking it very hard. Did something bad happen to you while you were missing?” “No.” “Then what?” “Why do you care?” Tsume glanced over at him. “You’re my friend…I know you say your not, but to me we are friends…I don’t care if you see it that way or not. I don’t mean to be a bother, but it’s always nice to have someone to talk to.” Tsume only looked the other way and sighed laying his head down on his arms also as he stated, “Nothing bad happened…because someone helped me. Why do people always insist on helping others they don’t know?” “Some people are just like that, but I don’t understand why that bothers you. I’d be grateful if someone helped me out of a sticky situation…just like you did.” He smiled. “I know, I know, but this still doesn’t explain why she helped me.” He stood and pointed his thumb toward himself, “She didn’t even know me…at all.” “She…really? It was a girl?” a happy look came over Toboe’s face. Tsume only glared at him, “Stop looking at me like that! It wasn’t like that!” “But that’s sweet Tsume.” “No it wasn’t! If it was so sweet then you tell me why I left her there to die! I left while she stayed behind! Tell me that!” Toboe grew shocked, “Tsume…I…I didn’t know.” “Of course not…just leave me alone.” He turned and stormed from the balcony leaving Toboe there by himself. Toboe sighed feeling he had messed up and with heavy feet he started down the stairs behind Tsume. * * * * *
|
|
Sekioh
Wolf
I'm.... stretching.... thats all, honest!!!
Posts: 197
|
Post by Sekioh on Apr 18, 2005 13:18:19 GMT -5
umm shit, thats alot to post IN the forums LOL thats what external links are for!
|
|
|
Post by devinfire on Apr 18, 2005 20:33:52 GMT -5
It's to be expected with a fanfic of this calibur. But anyway, this is really great Misc! I love it!
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 18, 2005 21:48:14 GMT -5
umm shit, thats alot to post IN the forums LOL thats what external links are for! Sorry you have a problem with it, but only when the Mods say something is when I'll change it. When they ask me to external link it...I will. And thank you Devinfire....I appreciate the comments.
|
|
|
Post by devinfire on Apr 18, 2005 22:15:13 GMT -5
It's great! I love both FF8 and WR (of couse). Please continue this story!
|
|
|
Post by chezamaiden on Apr 19, 2005 12:39:34 GMT -5
That following morning as Garden came to life everyone was getting around well when Squall stepped from his room. He sighed, thinking of the long day ahead of him, but still pressed on as he walked out of the dormitory. He hadn’t gotten far when he stopped noticing a crowd growing over by the Quad entrance. Confused he started that way to see what was going on and came in behind the people calling, “What’s going on here?” “A girl is in the water.” One girl stated as she stepped aside to let Squall through. He waded through the rest of the people only to find Kiba at the front and he followed the gazes and looked down into the water where Cheza sat seeming very happy. “Is she okay?” Squall asked watching her. Kiba nodded, “She’s fine. Cheza needs water to survive and I guess she found this spot appealing.” He glanced back at her watching her as he smiled. Cheza stood from the water and walked to the wall in front of her and looked up at Kiba, “This one is ready.” Kiba reached down to her taking her hands helping her back up as the crowd began to shift away. Cheza smiled and nodded, “Kiba…this one likes this place…very much. Everyone is so kind.” “Yes…I know.” He nodded but turned looking when Cheza’s head snapped around and her expression changed to scared. He stared across the way at a tall guy with short blonde hair as he asked, “Cheza…what’s wrong?” “Almost everyone, this one wishes to go.” She said and then started off in the opposite direction. Kiba followed her unsure of what it had been she had seen in that one guy. Back at the scene the tall blonde in a long grey coat walked up to the area everyone had been and looked around, “Hey…I’m not that bad a guy am I? Everyone runs when I come around.” “You’re reputation isn’t that great Seifer.” Squall informed him. “Awww…come on…I told you I had changed.” “That remains to be seen.” He stated and turned walking back toward the stairs at the front. Seifer only growled and followed behind headed toward the cafeteria. As he came to the entrance he stopped noticing Tsume leaned against the wall eating a sandwich, and purposely ran into him on his way in. The bump caused Tsume to drop the sandwich and he turned glaring at Seifer, “Hey…why don’t you watch where you’re going!?” “Or what,” Seifer turned glaring back. “Forget it,” Tsume retorted now seeing Seifer only wanted to cause trouble, “It’s not worth my time.” “Yeah,” Seifer called as Tsume walked away, “run away you little chicken sh*t.” Tsume turned back to him, “What did you call me!?” he yelled back now quickly running over and knocking Seifer down with his shoulder. As Seifer slid across the floor and into the cafeteria he grew enraged and jumped up pulling the gunblade from his side. From across the room Toboe noticed the commotion and jumped up, “Tsume! What are you doing!? Stop!” he quickly ran over taking Tsume by the arm. Tsume shoved him aside still focusing his attention on Seifer. Toboe’s eyes glanced from one person to the other as he watched them and he gasped when he saw the gunblade and run between the two of them, “Don’t!” “Move it wuss!” Seifer yelled at him and began to dash toward Tsume, ready to go through Toboe. Just as he reached the small boy Squall jumped in from of him and pushed him backwards also drawing his gunblade. “Seifer!” he yelled, “This was not one of the stipulations to letting you back into Garden! Now put the weapon away and go to the headmaster’s office now!” Seifer stopped and growled as he shoved the gunblade back at his side and headed out of the room, but not before shoving once more on Tsume. Tsume quickly turned and pushed him in the back as Squall came between them again and stated sternly looking at him, “Cool it…and head up to the third floor. I’ll deal with this situation up there.” “You people make me sick.” Tsume snarled as he then turned and walked out of the cafeteria. Toboe watched him go then ran up to Squall looking up at him, “Why did Tsume have to go? He was just defending himself against that guy?” “Let me tell you something,” Squall told him as he walked on, “in Garden we have a rule about fighting. Anyone involved must be present while we hear the situation out. I’m not saying he was a fault, but we request for them all to be there.” “But…I don’t understand why Tsume is in trouble when he didn’t do anything wrong.” “He was part of it…that’s all it takes for me. Now go back get your friends and ask them to meet in the second floor classroom…we’ll make preparations as soon I deal with this other.” Squall ended and walked on ahead of Toboe. The small boy sighed and frowned but did as the commander said and walked back toward the cafeteria to get the others. Up on the third floor, within the headmaster’s office Squall came in seeing Tsume and Seifer both there. He came over before Cid’s desk and leaned on it looking at them both stating, “No fighting in Garden…unless it is for training only. This is a no tolerance rule, and you Seifer should know this. On the other hand,” he looked at Tsume, “you’re new and I grant you the fact you didn’t know, but use your best judgment next time.” Tsume blew air out of his nose, “That was my best judgment…when someone wants a fight…I’ll give it.” “Not here.” Squall shook his head, “we have a lot of people here and many that are persuaded by what they see. We like to at least make it as peaceful as it seems here. I’m not sure how the fight started but,” he cast a glance back towards Seifer, “I have a pretty good idea.” “Why do I always get the blame!?” he yelled. “I guess as they say…if the shoe fits, but Seifer you were already mad about what happened prior to the cafeteria incident, you saw someone you wanted to pick on, and carried it out. You can’t expect everyone to back down. Now,” he looked back at Tsume, “I need you in the second floor classroom, and Seifer…I want you to go to the training center and work out some of that agitation on some Grats or something. If this happens again and I catch you with that gunblade out anywhere else but the training center…I’ll have it taken away.” “Yeah, yeah,” he growled and stood up then stormed from the room not looking back. Squall looked back at Tsume, “Go ahead and go to the classroom…I’ll be there in a moment.” Tsume only sighed aggravated then got up and headed out the door, and back down to the second floor. Squall placed his hand to his forehead and shook his head as he sighed then got up and followed behind to set up the search for Quistis and some answers.
|
|