Kingdom Hearts Fan Fiction ❯ Out of My Element ❯ At Death's Calling ( Chapter 9 )

Chapter 9: At Death's Calling

 

The days preceding the interment passed relatively slowly for Axel, though the opposite probably could have been said of Demyx. After their argument, and closely followed make-up, tensions between them had become minimal and the odd household got along quite merrily. Demyx had decided to go to school, even though the principle had advised against it, and so things remained quite the same as they had before. In the morning, Demyx would eat a quiet breakfast, at which Reno was now becoming a frequent guest, and then Axel would drive him to school. When he'd get home he worked on something or another like always, but now when it involved a text book, he often joined Axel in the kitchen. After that was done they either ate dinner or watched a movie, depending on the time their work was completed.

However, as of late, it seemed increasingly common for Demyx to turn on a radio and pump up the volume. Despite the fact Axel was annoyed beyond all sane comprehension, he allowed it. After all, this was a difficult time for Demyx and he really didn't have the right to tell Demyx to turn that racket off no matter how much it disrupted his studies. Besides that, the music would tone down after about ten minutes and Axel's suffering would come to an end.

The All-American Rejects was currently the background hum that accompanied Axel today in his studies; it was Wednesday night, 7:30, and presumably the funeral was tomorrow. Axel was not looking forward to the trip, four hours in a hotrod with two `kids' and he'd have to find someone to get notes from, which was always a bitch. People hated giving him their notes, as if he'd keep something with their crappy handwriting and subtle scents of some unknown substance. Still, Demyx had asked him if he'd come and when that boy even so much as glanced his way, his resolve melted. For a teenager, he and his `glowing aura' (AKA: his ability to look ten times better when playing off lighting) were pretty persuasive.

Head in his hand, Axel sighed and stared at the pen in his hand. A cap-less pen…

Click… Click click… Clickity-click-click click…

He lost interest. Resting the retracted pen tip on the counter, he looked up at the clock. His body was restless; he'd been sitting in a classroom for approximately four hours… The time it would take to get to the coast tomorrow; a stomach turning thought. His mind was edgy too, his intellect and patience had strained to the nearly the breaking point. Altogether, he just wanted to sit back in a warm patch of sun and go to sleep, but his star was nearly set by now and he had this studying to do. From the looks of it, that reading wasn't going to get done though.

Desperate for some sort of escape he looked around the kitchen. He wasn't hungry; they'd just eaten. Still, his jade eyes lingered on the gas stove. Then they roamed over the countertop, the sink, the chairs, the cupboard, the pantry… The pantry, it was slightly ajar. Leaning heavily forward, he let his body slump forward and collapse as he gazed into the dark room; he barely noticed the tiny clack of his pen falling.

“Huh… Stay-Puft… Marshmallows… Mm, mallows.” He purred into the sleeve of his shirt, half his face hidden behind his fallen arm. Shifting, he reached one hand into his pocket and pulled out a lighter. He flicked it on a few times, watching the fire dance at his finger tips. The device let out a pleasant sifting sound and his eyes again wandered past the flame and to the stove.

Within minutes, he found himself at the edge of the household appliance marshmallows on a stick over the open flame. Roasting marshmallows was pretty much the only reason he insisted on a gas stove, also the open flame. He always wanted the mallows when it was cold out, which wasn't his thing, so the roasting was something that needed to proceed within the confines of the house.

From where he sat on his stool, slouched over the counter, he could peer in on Demyx. The boy was still doing homework, which sucked. Axel was going crazy from working his mind; right about now he would have killed to just sit in there next to the teenager and watch TV like a brainless zombie. Of course, it wasn't worth doing if Demyx wasn't there. That's how it had become now; things just weren't worth the effort or time without Demyx there to make the act bearable and/or justifiable. More and more, Axel was getting lonely without having someone by his side, night and day.

“Maybe it's a phase…” Hummed Axel looking back at his marshmallow. He blew out the flames on the sweet and ate it. For a moment he couldn't speak, his mouth burning from the molten substance that filled it, but he finally added, “Maybe I'm just really, really tired and bored… `Cause I'm talking to myself… Some more.”

Twenty minutes later, and who knows how many burnt marshmallows, there finally came a voice from the front room, “Axel, you're burning it!” Axel looked up from his charred treat and at the couch. Leaning back, almost draped over the couch, Demyx peeked into the kitchen at him. He had a finger pointed at the said marshmallow. With a shrug, Axel shook the flames off the sugar puff and ate it without a second thought.

Back arched, Demyx stretched over the back of the couch, arms reaching out for the ground. He let out soft growls as he struggled to flip over the back, his shirt rolling up to expose his taught stomach. Interested, Axel abandoned his next snow white victim and tilted his head at the scene, eyes scanning over the boy. It took a moment, but Demyx succeeded in the end, landing on all fours behind the couch before standing up and joining Axel next to the stove.

“Here let me show you how it's done.” Before Axel could oblige him, Demyx stole his stick away and skewered a marshmallow to hold over the open fire, “We're gonna have to get up early tomorrow. I guess it's customary for the closest family to meet with the guys hosting the procession.” Demyx shrugged, “That's what we did last time anyway... Of course… I'm not sure if my mother's parents are actually dead yet. If they aren't, they'd definitely get first dibs. Do brothers and sisters go before wife and kids?”

“Depends on the case.” Axel voiced hesitantly, he didn't know. It wasn't his idea to even talk about this sort of thing. This wasn't really anything he though about.

“I bet I win over them.” Stated Demyx, he turned the marshmallow not allowing it to get too brown on the edges, “I'd never met any of my relatives from my mother's side, not until just a few weeks ago anyway. I didn't even know I had an uncle.” Demyx grinned and added with a chuckle, “Rufus… That's dog's name.” There was silence for a moment and Demyx chanced a shy glance at Axel but quickly looked away when he found Axel staring back, “Um… So… Besides your brother, do you have any relatives?”

“Well… I think I have an aunt somewhere.” Axel tipped his head back in thought. They'd never had anything like a family reunion, not with their parents being dead most his life, “Huh… I guess not.” Looking down Axel gave his mind another moment, “Oh! There's Rude.” Demyx gave him a blank stare, “I mentioned him when you first got here?” Axel commented questionably. Still no recognition, “Well, you'll meet him soon enough. Reno doesn't go anywhere without him so Rude'll be tagging along to the funeral….” Axel decided to change the subject to something a little less awkward, “We're getting a pair of hotel rooms and staying the night, but if you want to go to school we can leave early and get you there before the first bell.”

“NO! I mean, no… The coast is really beautiful this time of year… Maybe we could just walk around or go to the beach or something.” Slouching a little Demyx shyly kept a watch on the marshmallow, Axel would have eaten about five in the time it took him to roast just the one.

Compelled to say something, to try and cheer him up Axel offered a weak smile, “Yeah I'd like that.” He assured. Demyx had been away from his home for weeks, the shock alone had to be rough but the prospect of never going back was hard too. It might do him some good to be back on the coast where he grew up. Besides, it was hot there, nice and sunny. Axel could use a little vacation away from all the damned studying and work. Thinking back, it had been a long time since he'd broken out of his routine. Week in and week out, he cooked, cleaned, went to school, worked, and slept. He never did anything anymore; even going to the movies was a far off thing for him. He and Roxas used to go every week, but a year back they stopped going out so much and opted to just sitting back and talking wherever.

Demyx smiled coyly at him and pulled the marshmallow from the fire. Tenderly plucking it off the shaft, he held it out for Axel to observe it, “See how it's golden brown all around? And not a lot stuck to the stick? That's how you know it's perfect.” Demyx explained before setting aside the stick and tore the marshmallow in half, the inside was consistently liquid, “Here, you have this half.” He offered.

His jaw dropped a little and he just stared, his eyes fixed on the treat held gingerly in Demyx hand. Awful, terrible thoughts were running through his exhausted mind, the most evident one being to lean down and not only take the marshmallow in his mouth but those slender fingers as well. That would be sure to earn him a strange look. Tearing his gaze from Demyx's hand he glanced up to catch Demyx licking his half of the sticky liquid mallow, a string of it running from his tongue to his fingers. He'd somehow captured the light in such a strange way, it looked as if he were doing something very secretive, and in Axel's now warped mind very dirty… And very enticing.

On his cheeks, Axel could feel a blush beginning to burn, “Uh…” He tried to say something but it only came out as a brain-dead hum. From Demyx's confused expression, Axel imagined he must have had a strange look on his face, perhaps one of a ravenous wolf.

“Axel?”

“Oh!” With a shake of his head, he banished the dirty thoughts retrieving his mind from the gutter and cleaning it off for good measure, “Sorry, I was… Distracted.” Quickly taking and eating the half of the offering, he averted his gaze, “We're leaving early tomorrow, so you better get to sleep soon, got it memorized? Also get a bag and pack up an extra pair of clothes.”

“Sure thing.” Demyx stepped back, starting to head for the stairs. He paused though, “Hey Axel? I really appreciate you and your family coming… I know it's something people don't really want to have to deal with. People dyin' really kind of sucks.” Offering a sad smile, Demyx rushed up to his room and locked himself away for the night, leaving Axel with a sinking feeling in his stomach. He'd hoped to spend more time with him today, but tomorrow's trip was going to be long and hard; Demyx would need the rest.

The sand on the beach was hot under his feet; the black beads had trapped in all the heat from the sun. In sky, the sun was low creating a warm glow and painting the clouds above. There was a heavy smell of salt and ocean plants; the mixture was rank. He was looking for someone though, so he shoved back his distaste for the smell. So far, he'd met no one along the entire coast. It was getting late, so many must have gone home. Footprints in the sand were evidence enough they'd been there at one point in time.

Stopping in his tracks, his green eyes scanned over the dimming proximity. Still nothing, only the lonely cold breeze from the sea. Then his eyes captured a glimmer of light among the black rocks just off shore.

“Demyx?” His voice was foreign in the night and caught even himself off guard with it. The teenage didn't look to him but instead, strummed his guitar and began to play a tune. With a sigh of relief, Axel started towards the jagged boulders. In the darkness, they appeared to be tiny castles looking over the stretches of water before them, “I've been looking for you.” For how long he wasn't sure, but it had seemed like forever, “It's la-“

Demyx stood suddenly, removing the strap from his chest to hold his instrument from his body. The melody of the song still played crystal clear, the sound of the strings being struck reverberated off the incoming waves. Then, as if in slow motion, the guitar slipped from his fingers. It struck the rocks with a burst of sound before being swallowed by the current. Seconds later, it reemerged; crashing against the stone's jagged edge.

The ground below began to shake, the music in the background rising in intensity. Axel looked to the musician in worry, “Demyx come back here, it's danger-“ His words cut off, the fear gripping his larynx.

Hand raised, Demyx pointed out into the distance where the ominous structure loomed, the very one that had taken Axel's voice. An ocean wave, towering taller than any building or tree was barreling towards the shoreline, ripping apart boats and buoys that dare stand in its way.

Axel took a step back in defense, his body ready and willing to flee from the consuming water. His eyes flashed back to Demyx. The teenager simply smiled at him, his hand back at his side. Then he turned away from Axel, holding his arms open in welcome to the monstrous wave. Mustering up his courage, Axel took a step forward, but the water at his feet withdrew from him and a large wave instantly formed and thrust him back onto the beach.

No longer could Axel restrain himself. His primal will to survive kicked in over his judgment and, scrambling to his feet, he left Demyx to be devoured by the raging ocean. The sounds around him filled with screams of ocean residents fleeing for their lives, the squawking of giant birds came overhead, and the sound of the guitar playing roared over them all in fury.

Silence, the world slowed almost to a stop. Axel could almost see the wave towering over him. The salty water blocked out all sound suddenly and loomed frighteningly around him. A ringing entered Axel's ears as the contents of the mass spilled in around him before engulfing him in an impact that shook the foundations of life.

The air suddenly knocked out of his system, Axel sat straight up. His chest heaved in shock and every fiber in his body shook with dread. Beside him, his alarm rang out quietly and the air hung heavy and quiet around him.

Wiping the cold sweat from his brow, Axel slammed the off button on the alarm. With a heavy sigh, he flopped back down on his back. His eyes closed, he fought to shake away the shivers and ache in his head. For once he was all too happy to wake from his dream world.

“God damn…” He huffed in the silence. Another five minutes of lying in the sanctity of his room and his heart had settled down and he'd reached a good level of competence. It was time to get ready for the long drive to the coast. He shuddered, that dream had seriously freaked him out. A knock at the door made him jump, “Who is it?” He called.

“Your bro, yo. You all right? Heard ya gaspin' and thought ya might be in trouble.” Came Reno's voice through the door.

“I'm fine… Just a bad dream.”

“All right then, hurry up, yo. Rude's gonna be here soon.” Axel could detect the faint pride and anticipation in Reno's voice and smiled. Beyond the door, he could just imagine Reno fixing his hair and jacket, eager to look his best for Rude.

“I'm coming, I'm coming. Just give me a sec to get dressed.” Voiced Axel as he slowly got out of bed. The aches he'd had when he'd awoken were gone now, having been given the time to work themselves out. As he clawed through his wardrobe he came across the suit that he and Demyx had bought over the weekend. At the sight of it he stopped and his heart sank. Demyx had known about his mother when they'd bought it, but Axel wasn't sure a funeral was the right occasion to wear the clothes. After all, they had been purchased with the intent of going to a restaurant or fancy party.

In worry Axel bit his lip. He wasn't sure what to wear. His old suit looked terrible on him and he didn't want to look bad. The train of thought crashed. God, he didn't want to look bad? Where did that come from? What kind of girly reaction was that? Don't want to look bad for Demyx, yeah right. No, he was going to look nice out of respect for the dead… So then he would have to wear the nice suit. Then, every time he'd have to wear it after that he'd be reminded of it. They'd forever be the death clothes! Death clothes! He couldn't wear death clothes to anywhere but a funeral! If you go to a restaurant with them and you'd be like `Hey, last time I wore these I saw a dead lady!' or `Hey, it was about this time everyone in the room started crying because someone was dead. I bet someone died just now as I was thinking about it!” The stink of death would be all over them! You can't wash the smell of death from clothing. It's pretty much a curse.

Staggering back, Axel plopped down onto his bed and cradled his head in his hands. When had getting dressed become such an ordeal? Peeking between his fingers, he gazed solemnly at the offending articles of clothing. Well, logically he couldn't wear the red to a funeral, but he could use the black jacket. So if he set aside the pants, shirt, tie, and shoes, maybe they would cancel out the dreariness of the jacket afterwards… Or better yet! Demyx could go with him to buy a new jacket, a better jacket. Yeah that was a plan. All he had to do was sit back and think about it logically.

On his feet again, he pulled out the clothes and proceeded to get dressed. Once he had he took a long look at himself in the mirror. The action actually made him sad. Wearing the clothes with the intent of going to a funeral was enough to bring his spirits down. He kind of wished he was could just stay home now.

Suddenly a cry came from downstairs. Alerted, Axel dashed out of the room and hit the railing hard to stop him in his rush. A split-second later, Reno crashed into him, crushing him up against the sturdy wood and iron banister.

“What's wrong, yo?!” Exclaimed Reno in dismay at Demyx's yelp, having knocked the wind out of Axel. At the bottom of the stairs, Demyx was sitting on the floor stiffly, out of surprise or terror at the form in the doorway, “RUDE!!!” Squealed his older brother in delight, flying down the stairs and throwing his arms around Rude's neck. The man was definitely built like a wall or mountain; his dark appearance had probably frightened Demyx at first glance, it didn't help that his sunglasses and gold earrings made him look like a deadly foe. Of course, Axel couldn't go to his aid because he was too busy sliding to the ground cradling his bruised torso.

“Ah, you crushed my body.” Complained Axel on the floor now as he watched the scene play out.

Reno placed a kiss on Rude's lips in greeting, “G'morning, baby.” He cooed happily, before Rude carefully plucked him off. Setting him on the ground, Rude smiled pleasantly and kissed Reno on the forehead. Then his dark eyes, Axel imagined, moved to examine the startled teenager on the ground, “Oh! That's the boss' new kid! Doin' a pretty good job at keepin' him if I do say so myself, yo. Demyx, this here's Rude. Rude, Demyx.” Reno introduced casually, fixing his ruffled jacket. However, he made no move to button up the jacket or tie his tie, these were things he normally never did, “By the way, lookin' sharp as always Rude.” He complimented with a grin in the direction of the large man.

“H-he… He's Rude?” Questioned Demyx shakily as he got to his feet. Rude gave a nod and Reno gave a `yup' as well as a happy smile, “S-sorry… You surprise me.” Demyx smiled weakly. There was more silence as Demyx expected Rude to reply, but, of course, Rude did not. Rude wasn't one to speak unless it was really necessary, he was a great listener though. Obviously turned off about his silence, Demyx took a step back, “Um… Axel?” Demyx looked up at him hopefully, searching for some sort of escape.

“Don't worry-“

“Yeah, don't worry yo. Rude don't bite, a' least not unprovoked.” Interrupted Reno. Rude gave a slight shake of his head, though on him it was quite a large gesture and an obvious one of the common `he's always this obnoxious', which Rude gave a lot of people in a silent apology for Reno's haywire behavior. Then the bald man turned his head to Axel and gestured out the door with his hand.

“I thought so!” Axel smiled, “I don't know why I was thinking we were taking the hotrod, you'd never fit inside it.-“

“Dibs on the front seat!!!” howled Reno cutting in front of Rude to pick up the bags of extra clothes before slipping around him and out the door.

“Go ahead… Have it.” Axel voiced knowing all too well Reno couldn't hear him. Then he forced himself up and made his way down the stairs, “Hey, big man. How's it going?” Axel greeted giving Rude a friendly hug. Rude gave a small shrug before placing his hands before himself, silently waiting for them to go out to the car as well, “You know, you should probably just move in already, Rude.” Axel began as they headed out the door; he'd taken Rude's arm and led him out, “Come on Demyx! Lock the door!” He called over his shoulder before continuing, “I mean, it would save you so much on gas, you spend almost every night over as it is. What could be more convenient? Both partners at home and at work… Doesn't seem very efficient for you two to be living across the city from each other.” Axel braced himself and managed to stay upright, when Rude subtly gave him a playful shove, “Hey, I'm just saying! Think about it all right?” Pausing outside the black SUV, Rude seemed to consider the notion before ultimately getting in the car without any further response.

When Rude had disappeared in the vehicle, Demyx came up close behind him. Axel smiled at his shyness, “Don't worry; he's really a great guy.” He reassured before opening up the back door. Getting in he slid to the other side so Demyx could get in the same door and take a seat as well. When all the doors were closed, Reno turned in his seat to make sure everyone had buckled up, just like a mother does, then they were off.

In the front seat, Reno babbled on about something or another to Rude. He never paused for Rude to get his say in, because he wouldn't have said anything, so it was a continuous string of pointless chatting. However, in the back it was relatively quiet for the first half hour before Demyx decided that he'd try to work up a conversation with Axel.

“Is he mute?”

“Huh?” Axel turned, having not really expected the comment. Now was the first time, he actually noticed Demyx was cradling a book on his lap.

“Mute. I haven't heard him say a thing.” Demyx murmured quietly, head down as if it might shield his voice from Rude's ears.

“Oh. No, he's not mute.” Axel corrected, “He's really reserved and quiet, but he doesn't really need to speak. Anyone who knows him understands him well enough so he doesn't have to talk a lot. Just takes time to get used to it, I guess.” Axel shrugged, “First time Reno brought him over, I thought he was a loan shark or maybe one of those guys off MIB…” Thinking back Axel closed his eyes and smiled a little in embarrassment, “I closed the door in his face… He took it really well.” Giving a nod Axel, looked over at Demyx again.

“Oh… So, then… He's Reno's…” Demyx looked down at his lap, his fingers lined the edges of the book cover anxiously. It didn't seem he was going to finish the sentence.

“Reno's boyfriend, yeah.” Confirmed Axel, “They've been partners at work since I was a little kid and friends since then too. I don't actually remember when they started getting intimate. There was such a smooth transaction, it just seemed really normal. Guess it just seemed right they be together. I don't know where we'd be without him.” Axel glanced at the driver's seat and smiled fondly. Even though he'd been frightened of Rude at first, Axel had taken a liking to him quickly afterwards.

“So… You don't have a problem… You know, with that sort of thing?”

“With what? You mean being gay?” Axel quirked a brow. Demyx gave a shy nod and Axel gave a short laugh, “No way! I mean Luxord's about as straight as a rainbow and he's pretty much one of my best friends. I like to think we're pretty open about things like that.”

“Have you ever- Never mind. Um… So Reno and Rude work together huh? For… Rufus, right? So do you know anything about what my uncle does?” Asked Demyx, seemingly eager to change the subject.

“Not really. I know Rufus is the president of a huge corporation called Shinra, but I'm not actually sure what he does.” Axel thought, “I think the company produces a lot of essential things and supports a lot of experimental testing for future products. Why?”

“I haven't really gotten to talk with Rufus much. I only saw him twice. The first time was when he picked me up at the hospital and took me to his house and the second time was when he took me to the company building. Every other time I've had to go somewhere, he's had someone else take me.”

“But you have your cell.”

“Yeah, but I only talked to him about mother over it… Nothing about him or what he does. I feel like I'm moving in with a complete stranger, and when I do, I'm never going to see him anyway… It's like I'll be all alone again.” Looking out the window Demyx frowned deeply, bringing the book protectively to his chest. The passing light poles provided solemn glimpses of his despair. It was an emotion Axel hadn't witnessed to this degree since the morning his mother died. Demyx rubbed his eyes with an arm and gave a laugh, forcing a smile, “I'm bein' all dumb and sad again.” He voiced quietly, “This is stupid, I'm sorry I brought it up at all.” The conversation died.

“All right…” Axel looked out his own window. It was too early to see anything but it was better then having to look elsewhere, especially a downhearted Demyx.

R~i~i~i~ing

After such a long period of silence, per say since they did have the radio on, the sudden sound startled both Reno and Demyx.

“Wha? Ah!” Reno leaned over, snatching the cell phone from Rude's pocket. Flipping open the phone he put it to his ear, “Yo, Reno talkin'!” A pause, “Sir! Yeah, yeah! We're on our way-“ Reno paused switching hands to hold the phone as he looked at his watch, “Left at about four and now it's… Seven, yo.” Another pause, “Thirty minutes? Might be pushin' it- Right, right! We'll be there. Later, yo!” Hanging up the phone, he stuffed it into his own pocket, “Yo, Rude! This thing got any more punch to it?”

“`More punch'?” Repeated Rude in his deep voice. The ring to his voice had Axel instantly alerted.

“Wait a second- Don't you dare.” Axel growled.

“Sorry, bro. Boss' orders!” Said Reno with a wide grin. Then he turned in his seat, “Hey, Demyx, if ya got a thing about speed, hold on tight.” Sitting back again, Axel's brother leaned forward cranking up the volume for the radio before Rude shifted the vehicle into high gear and stepped on the gas.

The tires screeched in anger and Axel's stomach gave made a sickening twist in his body. Groaning, Axel hid his eyes his right hand. Speed he loved, but Reno and Rude were crazy drivers. In fact, they had to be going at least twenty over the speed limit now. Beside him, Demyx snatched away his left hand and pulled Axel close. In the unfortunate situation, Demyx shook a little and held onto Axel's arm tightly, as if in the event of a crash this might somehow save him. Axel couldn't help but smile.

Speeding on civilian streets, they arrived in no time. Once out of the car, Rude locked the door and looked around. Reno was the first to spot Rufus standing beside a white limousine, and he gave Rude a nudge before rushing to the side of his boss; Rude followed languidly behind.

“Mornin' boss.” Reno greeted.

“Good morning, Reno, Rude.” Responded Rufus in kind. Rufus was a well built man. He was moderately tall, but definitely not as tall as Rude, and he was slender. In a suit he looked professional and cool; however, he preferred a more casual male model look. Since this was a funeral, he had disposed of his ideal clothes and now wore stifling black. He still looked rather handsome in it, Axel had to admit, “I apologize for making you two come all the way out here, but it seemed fitting for my sister's final resting place lie beside the sea, which she loved so dearly.”

“No problem, Rude and I are happy to come. Right buddy?” Rude gave a nod, both Demyx and Axel, side by side, came up along side them to join the group.

“Glad to hear it. I gave Tseng and Elana the day off, so keep an eye out for me while I'm here, won't you?”

“Yes, sir!” Reno confirmed for the both of them.

“Now fix your jacket and- Where's your tie?”

Axel smiled as Reno patted himself down in search of the missing tie. On his way to meet with Rufus, he'd dropped it and Axel had picked it up. Helpfully, he came up from behind and draped the tie over his brother's shoulder.

“Ah! Thanks, yo!” Said Reno gratefully as he buttoned up his shirt and jacket. Then he took the tie from its perch and tied it around his neck, fitting it nicely against his throat, “There.” He voiced happily.

Content with Reno's look, Rufus now turned his gaze to both Axel and Demyx. Axel smiled at him in silent greeting; however, Demyx was not so gracious. Clutching the book he held with both hands, Demyx stepped closer to Axel. It seemed that his words spoken earlier still held true, Rufus was nothing but a stranger to him.

Perhaps understanding the gap between them, Rufus let it slide, “Well, let us go greet our gracious hosts so that the procession can get started.”

Inside the building were assortments of white flowers and solemn decorations to give off a feel of mourning. The edifice was completely silent now; no one had yet to arrive except them. It seemed Rufus had called to get them there at least forty-five minutes before the ceremony to speak with the host of the funeral, most likely to talk business with the man.

The host was a short, rather pudgy man. Though he wasn't attractive, he was at least welcoming, like Santa Claus or a teddy bear, “Ah, good morning to you, and please accept my sincere condolences on your loss.” He greeted them, “Now which of you might be family?”

“I'm her older brother,” Rufus stepped forward, “and he,” gesturing back to Demyx, “is her only son.”

The man looked at Demyx piteously, “Ah, you poor dear. This must be such a tough time for you.” Demyx glowered at him angrily, before stepping back behind Axel to prevent further eye contact with him. The man clicked his tongue, “Who might he be staying with now?”

“I'll be caring for him when the construction at home is complete, but, as of right now, my trusted colleague here is housing him.” Rufus replied politely. It seemed, in the public eye his was more than a bit courteous. Scandals were a big deal, and as president of his own company, he always had to look good, “Now, if you would be so kind as to lead me to your office. Let's get down to business.”

“Why, yes, of course.” Agreed the man hurriedly before scuttling away.

Rufus hesitated and turned back slightly, “Reno, watch after my nephew. I'll be back shortly. Come, Rude.” Dutifully, Rude accompanied Rufus to one of the back rooms, leaving Reno, Axel, and Demyx to their own musings.

Demyx was the first to wander away from the scene, Axel and Reno followed him. The building wasn't too large and there were few rooms, seeing as how most of them were very large ones, open and spacious. Their footsteps rang out solemnly in the empty corridor, the floor sounding hollow beneath their feet. Each room they did pass, Demyx peeked inside anxiously. Axel knew very well what he was doing; he could almost hear Demyx calling her name (if he'd known what it was). Somewhere in the building, the room where the viewing was to be held loomed. Within that room would lay his mother's coffin, awaiting the onslaught of people yet to come.

Arriving at a room at the far end of the building Demyx finally came to a stop, “Mother?” He voiced questioningly as he pushed open the door and peered in. A smile crept onto his face, “Found you!” Rushing into the room Demyx let the door swing shut on its own, almost knocking Axel back; luckily Reno caught it before it hit him.

Stepping into the room, Axel gaped. Being the final room, all three of its walls contained vast windows. All of which were open to reveal a wide landscape of houseless hills and the immense ocean beyond them. The sunlight showering in from all angles, created an angelic glow on the white flowers, red wood seats, large podium, and gorgeous oak coffin. On the ceiling were intricate paintings of angels, French style vegetation, and clouds.

Demyx ran up the small stairs to greet the sarcophagus in which his mother lay. Setting the book on top, he actually gave the tomb a grateful hug. Eyes closed tightly, he pressed his cheek to the glazed wood, “I missed you.” He murmured. Even though his voice was quiet, the room carried it effortlessly through the still air, “Rufus did good didn't he?” He questioned opening his eyes to gaze at nothing in particular. From their position by the door, Axel and Reno could still see the tears welling up in his eyes, “I picked out your coffin on my own and everything, but he was the one who paid for it… I would have paid for it… But I didn't have any money left after the lenders came for payment, I didn't even have enough to pay all of them back either… So they repossessed the house and took all our furniture.” Demyx looked up scornfully out the window, “Those sharks, how can anyone be so cruel? They didn't even wait for you to die before taking it all away… And now you're gone too.”

Standing straight, his hands slid off the coffin, “Remember how we packed away all the things of dad we owned? Put them in boxes and hid them where we'd never have to see them again?” Demyx picked up the book and crossed the podium setting the book down he ran his hand over the pedestal, “I buried it in the cliffs.” He told her turning his head back as he said it before looking at the book in front of him, “I took a lot of your stuff too, everything I could before anyone could take it away… I made sure to seal it with tape and plastic, so nothing could damage our things. Maybe someday, someone will find it all. Read your diary and make a story or movie out of it; out of our lives… Then someone we'll remember that once there was a lonely family by the bay.”

Demyx smiled and tapped the book in front of him, “But I kept this mom. This one's for you… It's that photo album you kept under the bed. The only thing left of our perfect little family.” Taking in a shaky breath Demyx gave a heavy sigh, “I know… What am I keeping, right?” Demyx went to his mother's side, “There's a picture missing from the album… That's the only thing I wanted. All the jewels and videos… I don't want any of it… Those things… They're just- They're just too painful for me. It hurts my eyes to look at them; they make me sick to my stomach.”

Going to the window behind the coffin, Demyx leaned against he glass and grinned, “Hey, mom! You know what's funny? The ocean still makes me smile… The sounds and smell of it, they're comforting somehow. Isn't that strange? Everything else that reminds me of what we had together makes me so sad but the ocean never does… Maybe it's because it's just so full of life! Oh! That reminds me, you're being buried in the same cemetery as dad, right next to him, too. It'll be nice for you over there. It's just beside the cliffs, overlooking Sunset Pass…” Demyx gave a happy sigh, “I hope I get buried there when I die, or maybe a burial at sea… That'd be nice too.”

Looking around, Demyx seemed to finally notice a dejected little piano in the corner of the room, “There's a piano here…” He voiced almost in thought as he rushed over to it. Running his fingers over the keys he listened to the sounds, “It's a little out of tune… If I give it a little warm up, it should work out just fine. Think I remember how to play? It's been forever. I don't think I've touched a piano since dad died.” Sitting down he tapped the keys thoughtfully, “But it's like riding a bike right? Once you learn you never forget… Say, how about I play you one last song? One more melody before I leave this place before we go our separate ways… I know exactly what you'd like to hear. I don't care for Styx but you loved them almost as much as you loved Cher.” Demyx chuckled, “Here's to you.” Striking the keys crisp and surely, Demyx played the cords accurately and gracefully.

 

“I'm sailing away,

Set an open course for the virgin sea,

`Cause I've got to be free,

Free to face the life that's ahead of me.

 

On board I'm the captain,

So climb aboard,

We'll search for tomorrow on every shore.

And I'll try, oh lord, I'll try

To carry on.”

 

Carried away with the song, Demyx closed his eyes. Even without seeing, his fingers knew the tune and played effortlessly across the keys. In passive sympathy, Axel leaned against the doorframe, his brother stepping closer to him as they watched Demyx sing the last melancholy tune for his mother.

 

“I look to the seas,

Reflections in the waves spark my memories:

Some happy, some sad.

I think of childhood friends and the dreams we had.

 

We lived happily forever,

So the story goes,

But somehow we missed out on the pot of gold.

But we'll try best that we can

To carry on.”

 

His finger hit the last cord he willed himself to play and his hands slipped from the instrument. He didn't bother to look up at Axel, just simply stood and returned to the book he'd left behind. Taking it in his hands once more, he returned to the coffin. With a free hand, he hesitantly touched the lid. It seemed he pondered on opening the sarcophagus himself, but he was having second thoughts. After a long moment, he shifted his weight and heaved it open.

Something flickered inside Axel and, without thinking, he was at Demyx's side within seconds. Demyx glanced up at him sorrowfully and gave him a sad smile, “You know, they lied.” Demyx said quietly as he carefully tucked the album between his mothers laced hands and the coffin, “They never look like they're sleeping… Dead people… They always just look dead.” His voice cracked and Axel put an arm around his shoulder's pulling Demyx close.

Looking at the still woman before him, Axel imagined Demyx must have looked much like her when she was still living. The picture that rested on top the coffin confirmed his beliefs; however, it saddened him to see the smiling face in the photo now cold and lifeless. She had once been a very beautiful woman, bright blue eyes, platinum blonde hair, and fair skin. The world would no longer see her moving through the throngs of people on the streets.

“I know…” Axel whispered, “I know.”

“Demyx!” The musician jumped a little, looking over his shoulder at the caller. Rufus stood in the doorway, Rude and the host behind him, “The others will be arriving soon, why don't we head outside and wait while they proceed with the viewing. You've said your `Goodbyes' haven't you?”

“What about you?” Demyx asked tearfully.

“I said my goodbyes the day she died. I've no need to renew them while she looks as she does now.” Rufus explained before turning to the short man beside him, “Fetch us when the viewing is over, we'll be just outside on the grass.”

“Yes, of course.”

“Reno, Rude, pay your respects to my sister.” Reno cowered a little, slinking down the isle to meet with Demyx and Axel. He offered both of them a strange, nervous smile before Rude came up behind him. At which point he stood up straight, looking awfully serious.

Clapping his hands together before himself, Reno closed his eyes, “Back to the Lifestream. May you rest in the peace within its ever flowing current.” Reno bade farewell curtly but respectfully.

“Your son is in good hands, you can rest easy knowing that he will be taken well care of from now on. Return to the Lifestream with your husband and know that your work here is done.” Rude voiced quietly in respects before placing a hand on Reno's shoulder. Giving a nod, Reno turned and headed back to rejoin Rufus with Rude close behind. Axel and Demyx stayed just a moment longer before they too turned to meet them.

Outside the group settled down on the grass to the side of the building and looked out over to where the ocean met the land. Even though inside Axel shuddered at it, his dream renewing itself, they were all fairly silent, listening to car doors open and close and the tapping of people's feet.

Then out of the blue, “Is the Lifestream real?” They all looked at Demyx, who stared blankly at the ocean waves. Then he repeated, “So, is it?”

Reno laughed and threw his arm on his knee as he leaned back on his other hand, “Who knows!” He voiced cheerily, grinning at the sky above, “But ya know what, kid? It's nice to dream, have somethin' to believe in, yo. That's what keeps us all goin' in this damn crazy world.” Reno let out a tsk as he lowered his head and looked over at Demyx, “You'll find yours, too, that thing that makes your heart beat. Everyone's got it, just different for different people.”

Rufus stared at him unhappily, “Maybe you don't work enough.”

“Wha?! Hey! Can't a guy try to express himself without gettin' punished for it, yo?! I was just tryin' to be helpful.” Grumbled Reno, “Anyway, you got any better advice Mr. President?”

“Speaking like that to your boss? That's gutsy.” Commented Rufus more than a little sadistically. Reno let out a feisty growl.

“Hey, what's the Lifestream?” Axel piped up in curiosity. He regretted it instantly. All eyes turned on him, most expressing surprise. Then Rufus looked at Reno scornfully.

“You've never told him?”

“Hey, he never asked! Don't they teach that stuff in school anyhow?” Asked his brother. Rufus sort of shrugged, it'd been a while since any of them had been in school.

“The Lifestream… It's the energy that courses deep inside the world, fueled by the memories of those who died,” Rufus explained, looking out to the ocean, “It's supposed to provide life to the planet and everything that lives on it… It is said to look like a stream of light, made up of millions of tiny photons that represent memories and life. The life of a person as we know it does reside in those memories… But that consciousness, the person who lived, still lives around us in the memories of the living. In essence, though the memories collect in the Lifestream, some of it spills out into the minds of those yet to join it, creating a chain of memories and life that courses in every being and substance we see and know.”

“Then… When I die, I'll go there?”

“Nah! You'll still be here.” Reno tapped his head, “Right up here, with everyone who knows you, only your memories will be in the Lifestream. Get it, bro?”

“I think.” Axel furrowed his brows, leaning back on his hands as he pondered the idea. He'd never really thought about dying or what happened after you did, “The Lifestream… Sounds pretty cool.”

“It is.” Reno assured, “I know you don't remember our mom and dad, but they live on in me and everyone they ever met. That's why I just can't be sad about those kinds of things anymore, yo, `cause they're not really gone, just out of sight and somewhere I can't reach. But when I go, I'll join the Lifestream and we'll all be together again, with everyone that's come before us and everyone yet to come.”

“Yeah, I'll go for that… If that's what you believe, I believe it too, Reno.” Axel gave a nod, before Reno captured him in his arms and hugged him tight.

“Ah! Sometimes, little bro, you're just too damn cute!” Reno laughed ruffling Axel's hair playfully.

“All right, Reno stop that. This is the day of my sister's funeral, not some fun-filled party.” Rufus commanded, instantly bringing Reno's actions to a halt. Of course, now Reno and Axel were pretty content with smiling all the same instead of wearing the somber frowns of a mourner.

Once the viewing was complete, they found themselves back in the room to listen to eulogies and stories, all the things that came before taking the coffin to its final resting place in the cemetery. When they walked in, they caught quite a few strange looks. Axel imagined this might have been because he and his brother had rather bright red hair and most of those within had blonde or brown hair.

Rufus motioned for them to sit down where they pleased before taking his place in front, for it seemed he had all the intentions of getting his word in.

“Who is that boy?” Axel could hear one of the women whisper.

“The boy? Didn't you know? That's her bastard son.” Replied another.

“My! Can you believe that?! Both the mother and father dead, poor dear what a shame.”

“A shame he didn't go with them is more like it-“

Simultaneously Rude and Reno kicked the back of the seat in front of them, where two of the gossipers happened to be sitting. The women looked back at them with disdain and disgust. Then Reno leaned forward whipping out a pocket knife from his pocket. Waving the blade close to one of their faces he grinned madly, “Now ladies, that wasn't such a nice thing to say, and within earshot of the kid. How's about I cut those dirty little tongues right out of your mouth and save Rufus the trouble, yo?” The girls gasped in horror and insult before they sunk down in their seats, “That's what I thought.” He hit the blade against the back of the seats to close it and stuffed it back in his pocket. The smug smile on his face told Axel that he was pleased with himself.

Demyx leaned in close to Axel, tucking his face between Axel's arm and the backboard. In the position, he'd claimed Axel's hand and now held it tightly. He remained like this the duration of the speeches.

The room fell eerily silent as Rufus took center stage. He drew out the awkward silence as long as he could by busying himself with tidying up his jacket before deciding to speak, “It is an honor to see such a turn out for my dear sister's funeral, certainly a touching scene of false sympathy and feigned changes of hearts… However, I am disgusted by the presence of most of you, especially my dear brothers and sisters, and of course mother. That you would dare show your faces at such a painful time in the lives of those who actually held her dear is a disgrace to mankind… I've heard of many people joke about going to a burial to laugh on another's grave but I'm sickened at such a turn out for her death… As many of you know, my beloved sister left the family at a ripe age and eloped. She married the man she loved, they lived together by the sea in peace from your shameful behavior and scornful faces, and they had a single son who sits among us today.” Rufus paused leaning forward on the pedestal, “What many of you don't know is the woman who lies beside me, now dead. Unlike many of your farce stories of love and happiness, I hold the true testimony of her life within my hands. Like her, I found the life within the family to be stifling and strict. As one of the youngest sons, I was only there to be supportive of our oldest brother... Naturally I broke free and led a life of my own, as did she. Without you, she grew strong and independent. Her husband's small family was enough to make her happy around holidays, and the day Demyx was born was one of the happiest in her life, for those of you who don't know Demyx is her son. Her husband was the bread maker and provided well for her allowing her to work for a non-profit organization that aided orphans. When her husband died four years ago, I might note that most of you did not show up out of pure distaste and I was merely absent upon the fact my company was in a rut, she had to face the challenge alone and try to lessen the burden on her son. The impact it had on Demyx was out of her control and he respectfully dropped out of school to aid her in earning money to keep the house, though they were in no danger of loosing their home. Still, I bring this up as a reminder that if any of you had cared at all for her, you would have showed up then, or even perhaps when a notice was scent out to her family that she'd fallen into a coma because of her debilitating cancer of the brain.” Rufus hummed pleasantly, “I dare say that some of you may have come out of some act of redemption… Forget about it. No one in this room cares for or needs your pity and wishes to see you express your guilt. All of you can just swallow your words of apology now and let them rot in your stomach until the culpability finally kills you. I would advise any of you who are here to reminisce about the faults my sister never had not to go to the cemetery and observe the burial because I can't promise untimely deaths won't occur in such cases.” With that, Rufus gave a pleasant smile, tapped the pedestal and made his way to the back row in which Reno, Rude, Demyx, and Axel sat. He took a seat next to Demyx and gave him a comforting pat on the head before crossing an ankle over his knee and awaited the final wrap up by the host.

When the eulogy was complete, Reno and Rude stood up quickly to stand at either side of Rufus while everyone filed out of the room. Those who hesitated next to them, Reno reached for his pocket knife and Rude brought up a threatening fist, this hurried the stragglers along nicely.

“If I'd known so many of them were going to be here I would have brought my gun.” Rufus grumbled standing up once the room was empty.

“An' I'd have brought my cudgel if you'd asked me to, yo.”

“Isn't that illegal?” Voiced Axel casually as he stood up carefully, trying not to lose contact with Demyx, who seemed a little shaken by Rufus' calm demeanor after such a threatening speech.

“It's only illegal if you get caught.” Said Rufus in a matter-of-fact kind of tone, then he added quite cheerily, “I think the burial will be much more pleasant.” He stepped towards the door.

“Rufus?” Came Demyx's meak voice, causing the said man to pause in the doorway. He tilted his head in question before Demyx continued, “Who were all those people?”

“Them? Don't worry yourself about them. They're just sniveling dogs under the ever powerful control of the master of the household, your grandmother. They didn't approve of your mother marrying your father and that's all you need to know.”

“Then about what you said up there… Where were you? If mother got along so well with you, how come I'd never seen you before?” Demyx demanded, now leaving Axel's side to boldly confront his uncle.

Rufus seemed to think about this for a moment before giving a soft sigh, “I've never been much of a family man. I attended your parents wedding and I was there the day you were born. For a while I came in and out of your life when you were younger, but as my company grew so did my involvement in it. I'm not saying I had a perfect relationship with your mother, but we talked from time to time and I knew her well enough to know that you would need someone to look after you when she was gone.” Rufus adjusted his tie, “I'm sorry about your house and furniture by the way… My secretary had delayed the delivery of my notice; I didn't even know your mother was in the hospital until the week I came to pick you up there…” Rufus looked away from Demyx and his contemptuous look, “There was nothing I could do for her; the tumor was just in too difficult a place to remove it and no therapy could have extended her life… We should get going. We wouldn't want to miss her farewell.”

The drive to the cemetery was quiet and awkward. Demyx, sitting beside him, was quite obviously deep in thought about the material he'd been presented with earlier. Both Rude and Reno, of course, were on Rufus' side so they didn't speak as well in fear of making the situation worse for their boss. Axel, though, was at a loss of what to say or do to try and comfort him. It was times like these he cursed his solitary lifestyle. Right about now he would have killed for some advice on how to act.

“I don't care. They're not part of my family.” Axel looked over at Demyx curiously but Demyx didn't seem to want to go any further into what he meant, “So the cemetery is really well kept, and the headstones aren't like the new ones that are flat in the soil; they're the raised kind. My mother didn't really want anything fancy, so it's just a normal one, not like an angel or something. Against the sea it looks like a monument or something, like the ones you see on TV for soldiers. You'll like it; you should go and look around while the burial takes place, you don't have to be there if you don't want to be.”

“I want to be.” The reply was so sudden, Axel didn't even have time to register he was the one that spoke the words. Glancing over at Demyx, he smiled nervously before quickly looking back out the window. Why did he have to go and say such stupid things? Sure, he wanted to be there but he could have said it more discretely.

“Then we'll explore together!” Demyx voiced excitedly, “After the ceremony, I'll take you… Reno, you're not invited.”

“What?! What'd I do?” Reno exclaimed in complaint turning in his seat.

“You can go play bodyguard for my uncle with Rude.” Demyx replied coldly, obviously not too happy with the situation with Rufus. Axel smiled; it wasn't like he didn't love his brother, but being with Demyx alone was just so much more appealing than being in a group. Maybe the rest of the day would be looking up for them.

 

 

TONS OF CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT!!! (Just blows your mind doesn't it?)

This chapter ends so abruptly because I was so freakin' sick of writing it! I was over writing it on page fourteen! ENJOY IT DAMN YOU!!!! I worked hard on it!

So pretty much, when I started this chapter it was really late at night… And I wanted marshmallows, because my last day of school my chemistry teacher had us roast them all period over Bunsen burners. I was the roasting champion; no one can match my masterful marshmallow roasting skills (everyone else kept burning them). Sadly, I don't have a gas stove and it takes forever to fire up the grill, so I was mallow-less.

All the Lifestream information I have is based off the movie for Final Fantasy and the creator's commentary. So I'm not preaching the Lifestream as truth or as a new religion, I just wanted to put something nice and inspiring in here for Demyx. Though you have to admit, the Lifestream is pretty damn cool.

AND I apology for OOC Rufus is, I have no idea how he's supposed to act… I really don't, so I made him kind of sadistic.

PS: I wear my death clothes everywhere (They're a lovely pair of black slacks, a plain shirt, and either a black coat or jacket. Oh! And some neat-o black sneakers. Hell no! I'm not wearing a dress for some dead guy! I don't wear them for the living!). They come with me to school and everything to remind me how lucky I am that people die. Morons. Its one o'clock in the morning and you're drag racing up and down my street! I hope my death clothes curse you eternally!