[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Legacy
by scribblemoose

Chapter 3

"Okay, then, what you got for me today? Any worlds to save? Or just the usual monsters to slaughter? Or-" Irvine plonked himself on the corner of Xu's desk, "I don't suppose there's any damsels in distress to rescue?"

Xu didn't laugh, but she didn't glare at him either. She handed over his mission file with a half-hearted grin. "Just monsters today, Kinneas."

Irvine took the file and flicked swiftly through the papers. "The usual, I see... fuck, how many geezards can there possibly be in the world? However many of the little buggers you kill they just pop right back up again. All stinky and ick."

"If you'd rather go to the Island Closest to Hell and deal with some dragons, I could..."

"Nah," said Irvine. "I like it here."

"Really? You've got a funny way of showing it, Kinneas."

Irvine's face clouded. "If you have something to say, Xu, why don't you come right out and say it?"

"Sorry," said Xu, with a mostly-genuine smile. "We miss you, is all. You're our best sniper, and we're really stretched right now. They're paying good money for ground clearance, and the Galbadia refit's going to be expensive."

Irvine fought down an odd defensiveness at the hint that Galbadia was somehow at fault here. She can't have meant it that way, Xu was very rarely subtle. Besides, the refit was Squall's problem, and it wasn't as if Galbadia was still his Garden, technically. It was only where he'd trained. "Okay, I'll get on it. I could maybe do some overtime later this month, if you like."

"Or you could sign up for work at Galbadia," said Xu.

He looked sharply up at her. "What?"

"Irvine, if you're not happy here, why do you stay? The Gardens all work together, we all have the same mission. I'm not... look, I'm saying this as a friend. Squall and the others would kill me if they heard me right now, but... you've not been yourself for a long time. You spend every spare minute at Galbadia, you only come here to work, you dropped out of the promotion programme... why are you still here?"

Irvine swallowed hard. "It's my home," he said, but the words sounded hollow even to him.

"Is it? Really?"

"I can't... Squall needs me, Xu. He's getting all this shit from Martine, and Deling..."

"I'm not saying go away and never come back," said Xu. "I'm just saying... think about it. Squall's a grown up. He's got Rin, and Quisty. You should do what's good for you. That's all."

Irvine tried to focus on the mission sheet in his hand, but the words faded and fuzzed in front of his eyes as he struggled to grasp the concept of going back to Galbadia for good.

He couldn't pretend the thought hadn't occurred to him before. In so many ways it would be a relief, to give up the memories and lost dreams that hung around this place like cobwebs, lurking in every corner. To give himself up to an easier life, to give up on ambition and responsibility and just fall into Zef and Duck's bed forever, fight monsters by day and fuck like demons at night. And perhaps Xu was right. Maybe Squall really didn't need him any more.

"I'll think about it," he said, words croaked out of a tight throat. "But don't tell Squall. Don't tell anyone, until I'm certain. Please?"

"Of course," said Xu. "I promise."

"Who's on the team?" asked Irvine, folding the unread mission sheet and stuffing it into back into the file.

"You're out with Zell, and a trainee of his, called..." Xu paused to consult her list. "Kellon," she said.

"Kellon Findel?"

"Yep, that's right. Bullwhip. Tall girl. Purple hair."

"Yes, I know Kellon," said Irvine, his heart sinking. Frila's best friend. Great.

"She takes her field exam on Monday, so do what you can, eh? A bit of encouragement, few tips maybe?"

"Sure," said Irvine, plastering a grin on his face.

"Thanks. Look, Irvine... we'd all really miss you," Xu said. "I don't want you to think I want you to go. Do what's best for you."

And for the most part, he believed her.

* * * * * * *

Zell and Kellon were waiting for him at the front gate. Kellon gave him a quick, nervous smile; Zell greeted him with his usual indefatigable cheerfulness. Even after all these months, Irvine couldn't get used to seeing Zell in leather pants and a vest top rather than those old baggy shorts he used to wear. The top suited him, showing off the well-defined muscles of his arms and shoulders, but to Irvine's mind the leather jeans accentuated his lack of height. He wore his hair in a low ponytail, bangs trailing over the tattoo down the side of his face. Very different from the Zell Irvine had taken on vacation to Galbadia a couple of years ago. The memory brought with it a pang of nostalgia, bitter-sweet.

"'S'up, Irvine," said Zell, bouncing lightly on his feet. "Glad you could come. I've been telling Cadet Findel here all about your relaxation techniques. She's a little nervous about her tests."

"You'll be just fine," said Irvine, with a warm smile for Kellon. "Just remember to breathe."

"Thank you, sir," she said. "Um, I mean Capta-"

"Call me Irvine," said Irvine. "Please."

"Oh." She smiled, flashing cute dimples at him. "Thanks."

"Before you get any ideas, I'm still Instructor Dincht," said Zell, with a faintly disapproving look at Irvine.

"But of course," said Irvine. "So which way are we going, Instructor Dincht?"

Kellon stifled a giggle; Zell gave Irvine a hard stare.

"The plains," he said. "Geezard territory."

"Oh," said Irvine, with a wink at Kellon. "My favourite."

Zell gave him a long suffering look as he led them down the drive, but Irvine ignored him. Kellon looked happier already, and apart from whatever Zell ordered him to kill, that was his mission for the afternoon.

He wondered whether Frila was nervous, too. He doubted it, somehow.

The geezards seemed to be in a particularly antisocial mood, that morning. It was as if they sensed that Zell and Irvine were holding back to give Kellon a chance to practise her skills, and were taking advantage; every time Irvine fell back and drew magic from the beasts rather than trying to shoot them, he was rewarded with a facefull of halitosis-laden breath that threatened to lay him out cold.

Siren hummed happily in his head, though, gorging herself on the battle, spreading power through his body, rewarding him for every moment they fought.

Kellon struck a cracking blow across the skull of the last geezard in the batch; it screamed and contorted in pain for an instant, then faded.

"Good attack," said Zell approvingly.

Kellon gave him a little grin of triumph. "Thanks."

They continued around the edge of the forest, and had just spotted a trio of bite bugs when something mostly black with a streak of blue shot out of the trees with astonishing speed, making a loud roaring sound.

The vision headed straight for the bugs, and took out all three with one forceful swing of his blade. He looked around for more, wild-eyed and snarling.

"Hey, Squall, " said Irvine. "Bad meeting?"

Squall blinked, noticing them for the first time.

"Like you wouldn't believe," he said. "What're you doing here?"

"Working, strangely enough," said Irvine. "You know, killing things. Like bite bugs."

"What?" Squall looked over his shoulder at the air where the bugs had been only a moment ago. "Oh, sorry, were they yours?"

"Only a bit," said Irvine.

"I wouldn't worry, there's plenty more," said Zell. "Like that one behi... Oh. Hm."

Squall had swatted the life out of the giant insect with the flat of his blade, without even looking.

"I'll take Kellon over there," said Zell. "We need to work on her junctions. Why don't you take a break, Irvine?"

"Okay," said Irvine, watching Squall as he executed a perfect charge, slicing through one bug and shooting the other on the backswing.

"See if you can calm him down a bit," Zell whispered. "It's not a good example for the cadet, if you know what I mean."

"Sure," said Irvine. Actually it looked like a pretty good example to him, the flow and grace of Squall's movement, the exquisite timing of his attacks, the perfection of his charge and shot. Not to mention his ass in those pants.

Maybe he had been spending too long with Duck after all.

Zell took a somewhat startled Kellon a hundred yards or so away, and left Irvine with the beautiful fury that was Squall Leonhart.

Another three bitebugs floated into view.

Irvine released Siren from junction, and fitted Ether in her place.

~Sniper.~

~Hey, Ether. What d'you make of our commander here?~

~You joined with another.~

~Don't get pissy with me. She needs feeding, and you wouldn't've liked the menu, trust me.~

~As you wish, Sniper.~ If Guardians sniffed, Ether would have.

~Never mind that. What's up with our leather-clad hero?~

Squall had managed to skewer all three bugs on his blade at once; he fired and all three were blown to messy pieces on the dirt for an instant before they disappeared.

~He angers~ said Ether, disapprovingly. ~He rages.~

~Yep, that's pretty much what I thought. Ah well. Cover me, Ether, I'm going in.~

Irvine stepped quickly up to Squall, before any more monsters started queuing up for innovative despatch.

Squall glared at him, still in battle stance, Lionheart clenched tight in his fist.

"You want to talk?" asked Irvine.

"Want to kill things," said Squall.

"Yeah, I can see that," said Irvine. "But how about you tell me what's made you so mad first, then we can do a bit of bug-hunting together. That sound okay? Only I want to know what's got you all riled up. You know how I worry," he smiled, catching a glimmer of softness in Squall's eyes.

"How about I kill things first?"

Well, it was just a glimmer.

Irvine stood back, swinging his arm wide to indicate that the battleground was Squall's, and watched as his best friend squared himself for action.

And then stood down again.

"They treat me like a kid," he said, miserably. "They have no idea what it's like, trying to run a Garden on next to nothing. They're only interested in fucking elections, and they think it's fucking easy to rid the world of an endless fucking stream of fucking monsters."

Irvine's first thought was that it certainly looked easy, the way Squall did it, but he decided not to mention that. "I'm sure they're bastards, all of them. Who is it we're talking about here, exactly?"

"Some bunch of tinpot dictators from Centra."

The bite bugs were making no sign of reappearing; Irvine guessed Squall must have put an enclosure up.

"And you were talking to them why?"

"Meeting. Had to."

Not for the first time, Irvine was thankful that he didn't have Squall's job. "So what's their problem? Garden doesn't have anything to do with elections, do we?"

"That's what I was trying to explain. Fuck." Squall kicked a nearby rock, sending it skidding through the dirt for a hundred yards or so in a cloud of dust. "They want our support. They promised extra funding if we'd help with their advertising campaign, or whatever you call it."

"But you said no?"

"Of course I said fucking no. Edea and Cid would go crazy, and besides, what do I know about politics? I could be signing up with a bunch of fascists, for all I know."

"That's actually quite likely, knowing Centra," said Irvine.

"But not the point. The point is, Garden is apoplectic, I mean, apo..ap..apo..."

"Apolitical."

"Yeah. And when I say that they tell me I'm being naive."

Irvine opened his mouth to ask the obvious question, but Squall shut him up with a look.

"I said it right, then," he growled.

"'Course. Sure. Um. Okay," said Irvine. "So... you said no, and they said..."

Squall slumped down on a large boulder, cradling Lionheart between his knees.

"They said they'd remember that the next time the Gardens needed something."

Irvine frowned, as he joined Squall on the boulder, shoulder to shoulder, a squeak of leather on leather. "That sounds like bullying to me."

Squall snorted. "Too right. Fucking disciplinary committee all over again."

"That's politics for you."

"If it were just me..." Squall tailed off, gazing into the distance where Zell and Kellon were going through a series of formation movements.

"If it were just you?"

"Oh, nothing. I was just... it's the thought that if I say the wrong thing, make the wrong decision, the whole of Garden could suffer. All three Gardens, even. That's a lot of people's lives, Irvine."

"Yeah," said Irvine, quietly. "Weighs heavy, eh?"

"Yes. Sometimes."

"You're not alone, though. We'll support you, no matter what. We'll always be here for you, the orphanage gang, and Rinoa. Xu, Nida, all the other hangers on. We trust you. We'll make it work, whatever you decide." He gave Squall a little nudge, and winked at him. "Even if you stuff it up royal, we'll still be here."

Squall managed a weak grin. "Thanks," he said.

"Maybe you should go into politics. You'd get the female vote, being so pretty and all. And your future father-in-law could get you a leg up the ladder."

"Fuck off," said Squall, with a good natured shove to Irvine's shoulder that nearly knocked him off the boulder. "And he's not my future anything, okay?"

"Whatever you say," said Irvine, placidly.

"I'm not going into politics. They can go fuck themselves. All I'm interested is killing monsters, and dealing with any sorceresses that may crop up."

"Especially if they're hot, and not evil."

Squall's grin got a little stronger. "Shut up, Irvine."

Irvine grinned back.

"You still up for cards tonight?" Squall asked.

"You bet. Looking forward to it. I am so going to beat the pants off Zell," said Irvine. "He owes me bigtime for taking Siren off me last month."

"You were stoned."

"So? He should have made allowances."

"I don't see why. He's looking a bit pissed, at the minute, though."

"Yeah. I think he was hoping on some monsters for his cadet to practise on. You seem to have put a stop to that, one way or another."

"Wha- Oh! Bollocks. I didn't think." There was a faint surge of magic as Squall dropped the enclosure.

"That's okay." Irvine watched as a small herd of geezards charged at Zell and Kellon from behind a stand of trees. Kellon responded instantly, instinctively, the crack of her whip stinging through the air.

"She's good," said Squall.

"Yep. Another of Zell's finest."

"Field test Monday?"

"Yes."

"Frila, too."

"Oh. Really?" As if he didn't know. Hadn't noticed. Hadn't gone out of his way to find the timetable yesterday as soon as he got back from the station. Hadn't found out where her new quarters would be and made sure there would be flowers there for her and Sanke when they arrived.

"And Seifer."

"What?" Irvine could hardly believe his ears. "Again? I thought-"

"Edea insisted. Again. Last three times, she's asked me to enter him, despite all he's done, the slacking, the stupid attitude... I even had to raise the fucking age limit for him."

"And to think," said Irvine, with a sly grin. "Most people assume you're in charge of Garden."

"I wish," said Squall. "You know how it is, with Matron. 'No' doesn't seem to be in her vocabulary, especially where Seifer's concerned."

"No. You know, I think she feels guilty. Because it was when she was Ultimecia, that Seifer got turned. She thinks it's her fault he's the way he is."

"But he's always been like that!" The exasperation was clear on Squall's face. "He was like it when he was fucking five years old!"

"True. But... well, mothers don't see it, do they? And she was like a mother to us. Still is. That's why you can't refuse her anything."

Squall sighed heavily. "I suppose."

They watched Kellon and Zell plough their way through another small herd of geezards; Irvine tried not to notice the pointed looks Zell was throwing his way, but it was getting harder.

"I'm glad I ran into you out here," said Squall.

"Me too," said Irvine, pulling himself reluctantly to his feet. "I hate geezards."

"Tell you what." Squall stood up as well, and clicked open Lionheart's chamber to slot in fresh ammunition. "I'll give you a hand."

Irvine grinned. "It's been a while."

Squall grinned right back at him, his temper all but forgotten. "I'll try and leave you a few easy shots, Kinneas."

"Don't forget the Cadet, Leonhart. Share nicely."

"Fuck that," said Squall. "Let's show her how it's done."

To Zell's despair and Kellon's delight, that's exactly what they did.

* * * * * * *

She saw him the minute they left the Ragnarok. Before Sanke saw him, even. The first thing Frila saw when she arrived back at Balamb Garden was Irvine Kinneas.

He was walking up the drive, with Squall and Zell, and Kellon. He was laughing, not a care in the world, rifle slung casually over one shoulder - just an ordinary rifle, not Exeter, she noticed. He was wearing old jeans and a scruffy t-shirt, thick ponytail flowing down to the small of his back. Squall glowered at him, stern and scary as ever, and Zell clucked around Kellon like a mother hen, checking off points on his fingers as he spoke to her. Kellon was listening intently, even as her eyes darted repeatedly in Irvine's direction.

Frila willed him not to look back and notice her, and strangely enough, he didn't. The four of them passed through the entrance and out of sight a moment before Sanke emerged from the Ragnarok, dragging an over-stuffed bag behind her, and wearing a backpack that appeared to be bigger than she was.

"I think I brought too much stuff, Fril," she puffed.

"I did try and tell you," Frila pointed out mildly.

"I can never choose what to bring. So it makes sense to bring everything, doesn't it? I just need a bigger bag, maybe..."

"You need servants, that's what you need." Frila grumbled good-naturedly. "I suppose you do want me to carry it for you?"

"Well, if you're offering." Sanke beamed at her. "After all, you don't have hardly anything."

Frila hitched Sanke's bag over one shoulder with a grunt, and surveyed her own meagre belongings: one small kit bag and her gunblade case.

"I don't know how you get by with so little," said Sanke.

Frila found her eyes drawn back to the Garden entrance, as Sanke's little hand wormed its way into hers. Memories flooding back. The day they'd left for Esthar. Talking to Irvine in the Quad on the night of Rinoa's graduation. The morning of her first mission. Waking up in Irvine's bed, scared, and excited, and foolish.

"It's amazing what you can live without," she murmured.

* * * * * * *

Xu watched Selphie rubbing her eyes with tight little fists. She was so tired she could hardly see straight, let alone think. She'd been working for hours without a break, and her face was pale, smudges of exhaustion under deep green eyes.

"You work too hard, baby." Xu came up behind her and pressed firm thumbs into her rock hard neck muscles. "Why not give it a rest? Come and get something to eat, or-"

"I've got to get this done," Selphie snapped, irritably. "It's not as if I want to, I have to."

Xu didn't remind her that organizing the Graduation party was something that Selphie had volunteered for, or that she used to be able to organdies parties practically in her sleep.

"Sweetheart..."

"It's not easy, you know. Especially when all the bands want different equipment, and Ganglion won't use Death By Marlboro's drumkit for some stupid reason. And then there's the lighting: Corben was going to ask his class if any of them would help, and he forgot, and didn't tell me he'd forgotten, and-"

"Baby, shhh." Xu gave up trying to relax Selphie's muscles, and stroked instead, moving across her shoulders and back in gentle sweeps.

"Oh, I am sorry," said Selphie, dripping sarcasm. "Am I boring you?"

"Of course not. I'm just trying to help you relax is all."

"Well, I don't have time to relax." Selphie brushed Xu's hands away impatiently.

"Then let me help." Xu folded her arms over her belly, stinging from the rejection.

"Thanks. But there's nothing you can do. I just have to get on with it, that's all there is to it. You go and get some lunch."

"Selphie, baby, you need to eat too. Come with me. You'll feel better."

"Oh, for fuck's sake. You're as bad as Irvine!"

Xu started to panic; she and Selphie fought so rarely, or at least they used to. It seemed to be happening more and more often, and she couldn't seem to stop it, however much she feared it. Selphie was so stressed and unhappy these days. "Why, what's he done?"

"Nothing. Just had a go at me about eating. The two of you seem to think I'm anorexic or something."

Xu bit her lip anxiously: in fact the thought had crossed her mind more than once in recent months, but she'd put Selphie's lack of appetite down to stress and tried not to worry too much. "I'll bring you back something," she said. "A sandwich maybe, or-"

"I told you, I'm not hungry. Leave me alone."

"Oh, please, Selphie. A banana, maybe, or... what are you doing?"

She was frenziedly gathering up her papers, shoving them into her bag. "I'm going to go and find some peace and quiet," she hissed. "Where I don't get interrogated non stop about trivial domestic details while I'm trying to work. Is that alright? Do I have your permission?"

Xu stared at her, completely dumbfounded. Finally her frustration and anxiety burst out in a fit of temper she knew she'd regret, but couldn't help.

"Don't you dare."

Selphie barely paused to glare at her before she swept out of the room, the door swishing closed behind her.

* * * * * * *

"Irviiine!!"

Irvine stopped, halfway down the corridor, as a person-sized ball of pink fluff threw itself at him. He caught Sanke neatly in his arms and hugged her close.

"Princess! I didn't know you were back!"

"Didn't you? We're back for good, Irvy! Well, prob'ly. If Fril passes her exams."

"Well, you see, I'm glad you mentioned it, because no-one tells me anything around here, except for you." He set her gently back on the ground, and produced a bar of chocolate from his duster pocket. "Here."

"Ooh, Galbadian! Cool!" She reached up on tiptoe, and tugged him down to be kissed on the cheek. "Thank you, Irvy."

She tore the wrapper open and broke off a couple of blocks of chocolate; gave him one and popped the other in her mouth. "Hey..." She carefully stowed the rest in her bag. "If you didn't know I was coming back, how come you had chocolate?" She looked suspiciously at him. "You don't give chocolate to other girls, do you?"

Irvine mustered his best shocked expression. "I'm hurt you'd think such a thing, Sanke," he said. "You, of all people. I like to be ready for all eventualities, that's all."

"Hmm." She tipped her head on one side, and regarded him thoughtfully. "Well, alright then. I believe you."

"I should hope so," said Irvine. "You going anywhere in particular?"

"I have to report to Xian, Quisty says. Sign on for classes."

"Classes? You're going to be a SeeD?"

"Kinda." She lowered her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "Between you and me, I don't think they know what else to do with me."

Irvine laughed. "That's a good thing, sugar," he said. "Means you're special."

She beamed at him. "Am I really?"

"About as special as they come. Come on, walk with me. I'm going that way, too."

She skipped happily beside him down the corridor, full of energy as always. Ether stirred, unjunctioned, in the back of Irvine's mind.

"Hey Ether," said Sanke. It always unnerved Irvine when she did that; as if she and his Guardians were whispering behind his back. Which, in a sense, they were.

"So, Frila came back with you?"

"'Course. She's gone to check in for her test."

"Is she okay?"

"Oh yeah. Well, a bit nervous, maybe. She hardly said a word on the Ragnarok on the way over. I think Quistis was quite strict with her this morning."

"Quistis can be scary. She..." Irvine tailed off at the sight of a furious Selphie rounding the corner ahead. "Selph?"

"Hi," she said, unsmiling. "Can't stop. Busy."

"Can I help?"

She was already passing them, breaking into a run. "No, sorry, bye!"

Her voice echoed in the corridor, as Irvine stared worriedly after her.

"She's so sad," said Sanke. "It hasn't got better, has it?"

"No," said Irvine, quietly. "It really hasn't."

* * * * * * *

Irvine arrived at Squall's rooms that evening to find Zell already there, bouncing round the tiny kitchen, collecting beer and snacks together.

"Squall's on the phone with Rin," he explained. "Where's he keep the bowls again?"

"Bottom left," said Irvine. "You look happy."

"Yeah," Zell grinned broadly, and punched the air, without disturbing the rhythm of his bouncing feet. "Hundred percent pass on the written tests, baby!"

"Hundred percent? So that would be... everyone, then? No-one failed?"

"That's what a hundred percent means, Cowboy, last I looked. First time it's happened in five years."

Irvine allowed himself a little smile. Go Frila, he thought.

"Kellon said the breathing exercises you taught her really helped," Zell continued, loading a tray with bottles and bowls. "Thanks for that, man. She's way too nervous."

"She'll have trouble on the field test, then."

"Yeah. Well, we'll see. To be honest, I'll face that when I get to it. I just can't believe they all passed. Even Seifer."

Irvine's amusement at Zell's pleasure in his students' success was quickly dampened by that thought.

"Seifer? But I thought he'd already passed it, all those years ago."

"Yeah," Zell grinned. "Squall made it a new condition when he raised the age limit. All candidates have to retake the written, as well as the field test. Bites, huh? I heard Almasy's been cramming with Matron for weeks."

That, Irvine decided, was a very cheering thought indeed.

"Frila scraped it," said Zell. "But that's okay. To be honest, I wasn't sure she'd pass."

"Good. Good for you, man."

"Thanks." Zell's grin was huger than ever. He had turned out to be a good teacher; not so much because of his own skills, but simply because he cared about his students. He'd probably lived every moment of that afternoon's exam right along with them, and to Irvine's mind he deserved to share their success too.

"We're celebrating, then," said Irvine. "Come on, let's go drag our lovesick Commander off that phone."

"He's been on for ages. I think Rin's upset about something."

"Her father, probably. They never did get along too well."

"Hm. Well, take a look. See if he looks interruptable."

Irvine stuck his head round the door. Squall was sitting on the edge of a chair, a fidgeting ball of tension. He held the phone to one ear, the other hand flicking a pencil against his thigh.

Irvine ducked back into the kitchen. "Not yet. Doesn't look good."

"Oh. Ah well, shall we start without him?" Zell waved a bottle of beer under Irvine's nose.

"Sounds good to me."

They settled in for a wait, or at least, Irvine did, hitching himself up to sit on the counter. Zell continued to bounce.

"Duck sends her love," said Irvine, enjoying the look of panic that crossed Zell's face.

"Really? She remembers me?"

"Of course. Duck never forgets a lover. Not unless she's really stoned."

Zell shrugged, probably trying for nonchalant, managing nothing short of plain awkward. "It was a long time ago, and only that one night."

"Maybe, but-"

"Besides, I thought we decided we'd agreed it never happened?"

"Of course," said Irvine, with a smile. "Sorry."

"Only, it wasn't an important kind of thing, and if Ness ever found out..."

"I know. I forgot. Sorry. You ought to come over sometime, though. Zef would like to see you, too."

That made Zell look even more uncomfortable.

"As a friend," Irvine added.

"Of course," said Zell, gruffly. "I heard you were moving back."

"Back where?"

"To Galbadia."

"Who said that?" It didn't seem like Xu to gossip, and Irvine hadn't discussed it with anyone else.

"I don't remember. Ness, maybe. Why, is it true?"

"No! Of course not. I wouldn't abandon you guys." It sounded thin, and unconvincing, even to Irvine. For the first time, he realised he was actually seriously considering making the move.

The thought exhilarated and saddened him, all at once.

"We'd miss you," said Zell. "But, well, if it makes you happy... you're spending so much time over there anyway..."

"Hey, you trying to get rid of me?" said Irvine, lightly.

"Well, yeah, you're a pain in the ass to have around," said Zell affectionately. "But we've learned to live with it."

Irvine had just opened his mouth to respond when he noticed Squall standing in the doorway.

He was glowering.

"Is she okay?" said Irvine.

"Not really. Maybe. I don't know. Fuck, I hate telephones. We were better off without them. Is there beer?"

Irvine flicked the cap off a bottle, and passed it to him.

"Her father?"

Squall nodded, took a long draught of beer and belched. "And his aides." Squall's eyes glittered dangerously. "He's trying to set her up with some fucking diplomat."

Irvine laughed.

"It's not funny," said Squall. "It's fucking not funny, Kinneas."

"I'm sorry," said Irvine, trying to suppress his laughter. "But honestly, if he thinks she'd even consider..."

"He's cleverer than that," said Zell. "Is this diplomat anything to do with Timber, by any chance?"

Zell and Squall exchanged grim looks.

"What?" said Irvine. "Did I miss something?"

"The Forest Owls have a new leader," said Squall. "They're making a comeback, only they have a different agenda. They want SeeD out of Timber."

"But-" Irvine struggled to keep up, wondering what on earth that had to do with Rin and a Deling diplomat.

And why would anyone on this monster-riddled planet not want SeeD around?

"They're clever," said Zell, taking over the story while Squall finished his beer in no more than three gulps. "They're claiming Rin is still a Forest Owl. To make people think they've got a sorceress on their side, probably Garden support, too. Only they don't come right out and say it, they're spreading rumours and lies,nothing tangible that we can deny."

"I had no idea," murmured Irvine. "When-"

"We've had suspicions for a while," said Squall, starting on his second beer. "Last week Rin's father came right out and asked her. That's one of the reasons she went to see him. He thinks if she's seen in public with this fucking diplomat, it'll make it clear where her allegiances lie." His eyes narrowed. "With fucking Deling."

"That's ridiculous."

"You'd think."

"Then... shit, she's not actually considering it?"

"I don't know. I'm not sure if she meant it." Squall savagely kicked back against the wall. "Bollocks, I hate telephones."

"I'm sure she didn't," said Irvine, truthfully. "You know how much she hates dishonesty. She couldn't do it. Not pretend to be with some fat Deling politician when she loves you."

"Irvine's right," said Zell. "No way would she do that."

"Besides, who would believe her? Stretching the imagination to think she'd leave a good looking stud like you."

"Shut up, Kinneas," said Squall, but his shoulders lowered a little, and he gripped his beer bottle less fiercely.

"Zell's got good news," Irvine said. "Tell the Commander the good news, man, before he glowers a hole in the floor."

"They all passed," said Zell. "Written test, a hundred percent."

"Really?" Squall brightened considerably. "That's good."

"Yeah." Zell grinned from ear to ear. "I thought so."

There was a short pause, during which Irvine tried to give Squall a meaningful look without Zell noticing. He'd come a long way, but Squall could still be a bit dense sometimes.

"Best score for five years," said Irvine, waggling his eyebrows hopefully.

Squall squinted at him for a second, then finally caught on. "Oh, that's great," he said. "Well done, Dincht. Good work."

"Thanks!" Zell beamed from ear to ear. "I'm afraid that means Almasy got through too."

"'S okay. I thought he would," said Squall.

"Yeah," said Irvine with a sly grin. "But Hyne, can you imagine how hard Matron must've pushed him?"

Squall managed a grin at that thought.

"And he's bound to fail the field test," said Zell. "Why change the habits of a lifetime?"

"We live in hope," said Irvine. He gave Squall's shoulder a gentle squeeze. "You okay, man?"

Squall nodded.

"We could go out somewhere," Irvine suggested. "Or hang out in the training centre, or-"

"Oh no you don't," said Zell. "We know your little game, Kinneas."

"What little game?" Irvine replied innocently.

"The one where you get us to hang out, and you pretend to get stoned, and then when you think we're drunk enough you suggest maybe a game of cards would be a good idea after all. Because let's face it, Kinneas, it's the only way you ever win."

"Oh, really?" Irvine smirked.

"Yes, really." Squall gave Irvine a friendly push towards the door. "Come on Cowboy. No excuses. Let's play cards."

* * * * * * *

Several hours later, and a quarter of a pack of cards lighter, Irvine arrived back at his room. It seemed big, somehow, unnaturally tidy and, of course, empty.

He tossed his coat and hat into the corner, and poured himself a glass of water, before sitting on the bed. He took out his phone, and pressed the speed-dial.

She picked up straight away.

"Irvy?"

"Hey, sugar. How d'you know it was me?"

"It says so on the phone display, silly."

"Oh, yeah, so it would." She sounded tired, and down. "Are you okay, Rin?"

There was a pause. "You talked to Squall?"

"It was our cards night. He was pretty mad, but he's okay now. He'll have a mighty hangover in the morning, but he'll be alright."

"I know. I shouldn't have said anything, I know he's busy and he doesn't-"

"He loves you, Rin. He's just... well, we know what he's like. He flew off the deep end, that's all. Nothing to worry about. It's you I'm worried about."

"I'm okay," she said, wearily.

"Is it true? That there's crap being talked about you and idiots that believe it?"

"I thought you knew." A stab of guilt went right to Irvine's gut. Rinoa sighed. "I should be used to it. I know people don't trust me because of my power. But this is different, Irvine. They're using me against Squall, and I can't even come out and say anything."

"And trying to get you together with some old, fat diplomat?"

That raised a chuckle, at least, albeit a brief one. "He's not particularly old or fat, actually," she said. "But don't you dare tell Squall that. I've got enough problems without any of my father's friends being threatened by by enraged boyfriend."

"My lips are sealed," promised Irvine. "Although I might come and do it for him."

She giggled. "You needn't worry," she said. "I can take care of myself. It's just my father..." she sighed. "I'm sorry. You don't need to hear me whinging on. How's things there? Did Frila pass?"

"Yes. And Seifer, but you can't have everything."

"I'm pleased. About Frila, I mean. She deserves it."

"Hm. So, you still want me to pick you up from the station tomorrow? Ragnarok's here, I could be in Deling in half an hour, and rescue you in dashing style, if you like."

Another laugh, stronger this time. "That's alright. I think I can survive a little longer."

"Well, that's good."

"Is Squall really alright?"

"Alright enough to steal Siren from me. Again."

"You'll get her back. You always do."

"That's not the point. He'll be fine. I'll go see him in the morning, sneak him an esuna if he's sick, okay?"

"Yeah." Another pause. "I know I should have told you. It's just..."

"Just what, babe?"

"There never seemed to be a chance, you know?"

His heart sank.

"Because we're all too busy?"

"Yeah. Or... or else you weren't around. I know you need to spend time with your friends in Galbadia, I understand, really, but... you're only with us for a few days at a time, and it never seemed important enough to bother with."

"Oh. I see. You should've said something, I didn't mean to... you should've said."

"I know. You're right, I'm silly to worry. I'm sorry."

"Me too, babe." Irvine fought to keep his voice steady. How long had this been going on? And what else might they have not mentioned? He felt sick, and unreasonably hurt. It had been his choice, after all, to spend so much time at Galbadia.

Even now, the temptation to run back to the oblivion of Duck and Zef's bed was stronger than he wanted to admit.

"Thanks for calling, Irvy. I feel a lot better. Just don't let him do anything stupid, okay?"

"Of course. It's what I'm good at, remember?"

"I know. I have to go; I promised I'd go say goodnight to Daddy before I turn in. See you tomorrow?"

"I'll be there, sugar. Take care."

"You too. Bye."

"Bye."

Irvine lay back on his bed, and tried not to think.

* * * * * * *

Irvine slept fully clothed, his phone nestling in one loose palm.

A warm body curled up against his back, soft lips kissed his neck. He shifted a little as he woke, warm and comfortable, naked under warm bedcoverings. An arm slid around his stomach, a strong, well-muscled arm.

"Oh, that's not fair," whispered Irvine. "You shouldn't do that."

"You need me," came a deep voice, with a sharp, mocking edge to it. "Whether you like it or not, you can't do this without me."

"Well, I could." Irvine wriggled his ass back against hard cock and flat belly. "But it wouldn't be as much fun."

Seifer laughed. "Too right, Cowboy." His lips tickled Irvine's ear, tugging at his earring. "You ready to go again?"

Irvine pulled Seifer's rough palm down to his aching cock. "What d'you think?"

Seifer made a satisfied little growl, and ran a hand down the side of Irvine's body.

"You got that Guardian of yours junctioned, Kinneas?"

"Don't need to, Seif. He's part of me, now. Always. Junctioned forever."

"So by fucking you," Seifer parted Irvine's thighs, fingers twisting and stretching inside of him; "I'm fucking Ether?"

"I guess." Irvine felt a surge of power as Seifer rubbed against his prostate, filling him up with light and energy and more power than he'd ever dreamed of.

"I told you," Seifer's eyes fluttered shut as he shoved his cock into Irvine's ass. "I'm good for you. You need me."

"I know." Irvine twisted around to kiss him. Plunged his tongue inside Seifer's mouth, and thrust his hips back, showing him he was ready. For anything.

Seifer took him with quick, short strokes, each one increasing the rush through Irvine's veins, every pleasure taking him closer to the edge.

"Oh man. You're too good, cowboy. I can't... hold off... any longer..."

And then he came, clutching Irvine's hips, stabbing his cock deep inside. It hurt, not just the friction of flesh to sensitive flesh and resisting muscle, but something deeper...

Too late, Irvine realised he was filling with shadow and darkness, bitter twists of evil, and his power was useless.

He was fading, with a futile whisper of Ether's name, when he heard his lover sobbing.

"I'm sorry," Seifer wept. "Forgive me?"

But the blackness was taking him, and shaping him, and Irvine no longer cared.

* * * * * * *