Boys and Girls Rain, cold, pain, darkness. Fujin moaned softly as she slowly awoke. A dull throbbing pain raced through her, she was hurt, but the pain was everywhere, making it far to hard too focus on anything specific. The sound of falling water she realized was not rain, her vision cleared and she could see fire, through the haze of frosty and air and smoke. Overhead a large pipe, easily as big around as a large truck lay ruptured. It's contents spilling into a icy lake just inches away from her. Stunned, she forced herself to sit causing her body to scream in protest. Ice was dominant everywhere, massive sheets covered everything and large chunks floated amid the chill waters before her. Something was rotting in the water, fleshy and brackish, it's slug like form moldering quickly before her eyes. The gummy mass of flesh was infested with various cables, wires, and odd bits of machinery that served whatever unknown purpose. "Norg..." She croaked feebly then froze. "Quistis!" She sputtered in shock turning abruptly. Behind her lay a massive pile of rubble, twisted steel and concrete rose like a small mountain, obviously the remnants of a large stairwell. "QUISTIS!" She shouted, coughing up a spray of blood for her efforts. She could hardly breath, each breath was ragged and tortured, she could feel the warm spread of blood soaking her shirt as she drug herself towards the rubble. "NO!" She screeched her gaze wide in horror. "NOT REAL! NOT!" Something exploded overhead; showering her with small bits of mortar and debris. Looking up in a panic induced stupor, she winced as a bright beam of light shone onto her. "There's someone here!" A familiar voice shouted. "SQUALL!" Fujin cried in dismay. "HELP PLEASE!" "Fujin!? Hold on, we're coming down? Where's Quistis?" "I DON'T KNOW!" After calling forth the proper spell, Squall floated down to meet her, as did Zell who looked haggard with worry. "HELP ME!" Fujin shouted anew, clawing at the rubble. "Oh Hyne..." Zell mouthed in horror. "What?" Squall frowned, following his gaze, what he saw caused him to stagger backwards in shock. Slowly, Fujin's followed their gaze. Knowing what she'd find, her heart pounded in her chest with the force of a sledgehammer. An arm protruded from the rubble, pale and horribly savaged. Thankfully, before she could take in the rest of the hellish site she fainted. A hoarse, scream caused Quistis to bolt awake with a start, the sound was nothing that she'd ever heard before and something she prayed never to hear again. Pulling herself up, she found Fujin sitting up, knees against her chest and crying miserably. "Fu!?" Quistis called out shakily. A wracking sob answered her. "Fu, baby are you okay, what's wrong?" Quistis frowned, cradling her gently. At first Fujin was unresponsive then slowly, she tilted her head to regard her. A look of relief crossed her tortured features as Quistis caring gaze met hers. Sniffling softly she offered a grim smile. "BAD DREAM." She murmured quietly. "It's okay." Quistis shushed her, gently biding her to lie beside her. "I'm here." ***************************** The next morning found Xu and Nida stood on Balamb's bridge staring out over the plush canopy of trees passing below. She, typing steadily on her portable computer while he lazily manned the helm. "I'm getting old." She sighed, setting the laptop aside. "Nonsense." Nida chuckled. "So you say." She frowned, slipping a small, stylish pair of reading glasses out of her pocket. Donning them, she went back to her work. "Okay perhaps you are." He laughed. "When did you start wearing those?" "I've always had them but I've hardly needed them." She sighed. "But lately I need find I need them more and more." "At least they're cute." He offered "Oh shut up." "What?" He laughed. "You're not old, heck; you're not even thirty." "I'm close!" "Oh come now, you're not that close." "Easy for you to say, you're barely old enough to drink." "Hey don't yell at me. You're the one going after the young guys you cradle robber." "Cradle robber! You make me sound like an old maid!" She all but shrieked while swatting at him. He ducked and Balamb lurked slightly. "Hey! I'm driving here!" He laughed as Xu put a startled hand over her mouth. "You're evil." She snapped in a tiff. Nearby, the bridge crew listened to the exchange in amusement. Xu, catching their careful glances glared at them. "What are you jokers looking at?" "Um, an old maid?" One of the bolder members chuckled under his breath. "I heard that!" Xu bristled sourly as Nida burst into laughter. "What are you laughing at?" Xu scowled playfully, slapping him in the back of the head. "Ugh, I've had it with you clowns I'm going to get breakfast." She sighed, gathering her things. "Bring me a bagel." Nida asked. "Nope, you've been a jerk." She said kissing his cheek. "Aw Xu come on." He frowned. "Uh uh" She said snottily, heading towards the elevator. "Darn it." Nida sighed, looking over at the bridge crew in annoyance. "Thanks guys now I'm in trouble." ************************************ Zell was bouncing in his seat, today was the day he got to pick up the honeymooners and he was more than eager to see his friends again. "Stop fidgeting." Nicole mumbled, quietly nibbling a croissant. "Sorry." "When do you go pick them up?" "Ah, not till this evening." He sighed. "Then relax, it's not even noon yet." "I'm cool, really." "Un huh, right. Look, Xu says we're heading over the tropics today, it's going to be a beautiful day, we should head out to the pool and take advantage of it." "Pool?" "Yeah, you know, big hole, filled with water, people got there for recreation." She said with sly grin. "I know what a pool is." He huffed. "Morning ladies." Seifer crowed appearing behind them. "Chicken wuss, how's it hanging?" He added jostling Zell briskly. "You asshole, go away." Zell snapped. "Boys be nice." Celest sighed. "Care if we join you?" "Actually!" Zell grumbled. "You'd be more than welcome." Nicole finished for him. Seifer plopped down heavily in front of Zell and smiled at him sinisterly. "Hey, you got a hotdog." He noted then reached for it with his fork. With a speed honed from years of martial arts training, Zell intercepted the purloining utensil with his own. "I don't think so." He sneered. "Oh ho." Seifer grinned as if accepting an unspoken challenge." "For the love of." Celest sighed in annoyance. Quickly, she grabbed the debated frank and quickly devoured it. Then, as if nothing happened she turned to chat with Nicole. "My dog..." Zell mumbled in shock. Seifer blinked and sat back in his seat. "Um, okay..." He mouthed with a startled shrug. ************************ "Wake up! Ya sleep like the dead ya know!" Raijin bellowed, shaking the bed mightily. Truthfully, Jaya could have indeed passed for a corpse, so deep was her slumber. "Jaya, Jaya, Jaya, Jaya!" Raijin babbled repeatedly, pushing up and down on her shoulders. A knock on the bedroom door caused him to pause. "What?" Raijin sighed. "Come in." Miguel poked his head through the door questioningly. "You have learned nothing?" He chuckled. "Miguel I'm leaving, I'm late for work." A woman's echoed from somewhere behind him. "Farewell." He smiled, leaning back out to wave goodbye. Raijin rushed to the door to peer over the older man's shoulder. A leggy brunette was hurriedly putting on her shoes and musing with her hair. Then quickly, she rushed out the door and was gone. "Who the hell was that?" Raijin blurted. Miguel looked confused for a moment. "I did not catch her name." He shrugged helplessly. Raijin made a face. "You're worse than Seifer." "I do not think so, from what you have told me, he does not love his women." "Oh and I suppose you do." Raijin laughed. Miguel looked genuinely insulted and pushed past to enter the room. "Of course I do." He said sourly then clapped his hands briskly. "Jaya wake up." He said in a firm fatherly tone. Yawning cutely Jaya rolled over and opened her eyes. "Morning." She smiled dreamily. "You two are weird ya know." Raijin said, cutting Miguel and foul look. ***************** By the time Quistis and Fujin arrived in the cafeteria the place was packed. "DAMN." Fujin wowed, never before had she seen the place full. "Well, whatever they're serving must be good." Quistis shrugged from her wheelchair. "MUST BE." Fujin added pushing Quistis' chair forward as they got in line. To their mutual surprise a horde of Treppies rushed forward and fawned over Quistis worriedly, even more surprising was the fact that half of them Quistis didn't even know. "Miss Trepe, it's been so long are you okay, will you be back in class!?" One girl babbled worriedly. "Hey, hey Miss Trepe, we knew nothing could keep you down." An energetic young man chuckled. "Oh wow she, is, hot!" Another youth whispered to his gawking companion. "Oh my." Quistis blushed, laughing brightly. "STILL HAVE IT." Fujin smirked. Quistis beamed and quieted them all down. "Gracious, where did all the new faces come from?" She giggled. "Well Ma'am, it's not fair to the newbies that didn't get to meet you so we really pushed the fan club." Nei, one of Quistis prize students from Fujin's class said laughingly. "Tell her about the shirts." One boy laughed. "Shirts...?" Quistis gawked. "Oh no, please tell me you didn't." "GAVE ME ONE." Fujin said blandly. Quistis buried her face in her hands with a blushing squeak. "To be honest." Nei laughed. "Your picture was more than enough to bring most over to the club." "Oh my goodness!" Quistis laughed brightly. "You guys will be the death of me." "QUISTIS ROLE MODEL." Fujin said proudly. "Hardly." Quistis scoffed. "She's right Ma'am." Nei smiled. "You're an inspiration; you saved our home and took care of us." "Yeah Miss Trepe you took charge and kicked that things ass!" Another youth shouted from in the small crowd. That was the tipping point and soon the gathering was chanting Quistis' last name as if at a student rally. Blushing profusely she couldn't help but smile warmly. "THEY LOVE YOU." Fujin noted quietly. "I love them too." Quistis grinned. "They're my children." ***************************** "Well look at here, sleeping beauty honors us with her presence." Seifer snorted as Quistis and Fujin approached. "BLOW OUT ASS." Fujin retorted. "Fujin please, Seifer, shut up." Quistis sighed. "We saved you a spot!" Zell said eagerly, waving them over. "Thanks Zell, how are you?" Quistis asked as she settled into position. Satisfied that she was comfortable Fujin joined her. "I'm great, looking forward to picking up the Squallster." He said eagerly. "I bet Rinoa has a fit when she finds out you're okay." "I can't wait to see Selphie." Quistis giggled. "Oh my goodness!" Nicole laughed. "Poor thing can barely walk, she looks like a basketball." Seifer laughed aloud at the mental image. "Nikki's right." Celest agreed. "She's about to pop, she should be do any day now actually." "Do we know what it'll be?" Quistis asked. "AFFIRMATIVE." Fujin answered, causing everyone to look at her questioningly. "WHAT?" She snapped. "How the heck do you know?" Zell gawked. Fujin said nothing. "She's a nurse." Quistis giggled. "AM NOT." Fujin huffed. "A nurse..." Seifer said quietly, his eyes wide. "SILENCE" She blurted, knowing he was about to say something snide. He couldn't contain his laughter even if he wanted to and let it out in a long bellowing chuckle that sounded more befitting some evil Count in a horror movie. "Sorry." Quistis shirked as Fujin rolled her eyes. "ORDERLY." She explained sourly. "Disorderly." Zell mumbled jokingly. "Behave." Nicole shushed him. "You have the little hat?" Seifer asked, still laughing. "Ignore him." Quistis sighed. "Where's the hat?" Seifer giggled again then choked on his food. "HA!" Fujin blurted abruptly then resumed her own meal gleefully as Celest proceed to beat the ever living hell out of Seifer's back in hopes of dislodging whatever was choking him. "Whoa, he's turning blue..." Zell said in awe. "That's not funny." Quistis frowned. "Fujin go help him, before she beats him to death." Fujin rolled her eye and stood to assist. "Yo guys sorry we're late!" Raijin bellowed as he pushed his wide frame through the tightly packed crowd of chairs and diners. "Is he well?" Miguel said curiously, noticing Seifer's dilemma. Fujin was about around the table when Celest's beating had its desired effect. With a choking hack the offending blockage arced neatly through the air and into Raijin's plate. "Aw that’s just gross ya know." He scowled is disappointment. "Disgusting." Jaya winced, stepping slightly away from him. "Thanks..." Seifer coughed as Celest watched with concern. "Hell, I'll be back, gonna get another plate." Raijin sighed as Miguel commandeered a recently vacated table and slid it nearby. "It's like living with a bunch of kids." Quistis mumbled. Fujin gave an agreeing nod. "Hey guys, we're heading to pool later, you have to come hang out." Zell said eagerly. "Most assuredly." Miguel smiled wolfishly. "With such ladies present it will be a treat." "A man after my own heart." Seifer chuckled. "Hey!" Celest scowled. "I think he's a bad influence on you. You're both sounding like my brother." "I still can't imagine you being related to that hillbilly." Seifer chuckled. Celest didn't take the comment lightly and promptly poured her drink in his lap. "What the hell?" He blurted jumping up in shock. Quistis shook her head in defeat. "You deserved it." Jaya grinned as he padded at his lap with napkins. "Need a diaper?" Zell chuckled. "Hey, I'll deal with you later!" Seifer barked. "What the devil are you guys doing over here?" Xu growled in wonder, holding her tray. Nida surveyed the scene as well and sighed. "I think everyone is going stir crazy." Nicole smiled. Celest stood and smiled politely. "Xu you can have my chair, I've some errands to do so." Seifer stood as well, still fuming over his doused trousers. "Celest." Quistis called, motioning to her. "Yeah?" "We need to talk." "Okies, we well, see you this afternoon." The younger woman said evasively then hurried off with Seifer hot on her heels steadily complaining. Xu and Nida took the now empty seats and sat down curiously. "We miss anything?" Xu asked. "Just Seifer being a jerk." Zell groaned. "What else is new?" Nida smirked. "At least he's gone now." "You do not like him?" Jaya asked curiously. "No one does." He answered dully. "Then why does he come around?" "Hell if we know, he's like a big roach or something." Zell laughed. "Zell..." Quistis said quietly. "Sorry." "At least he's trying to get along." Nicole said optimistically causing Fujin to huff in discontent. Changing the subject Zell turned to Quistis with a gleam in his eyes. "You two should come out with me to pick up Squall and the gang." "Hey that’s a good idea." Nicole beamed. "Yeah it'll be a surprise!" Zell nodded eagerly. "Sure, I'd love to." Quistis giggled cheerfully then turned to Fujin. "What about you?" "AS YOU WISH." She shrugged impassively. **************************** The day was warm and all was calm. With a group of junior SEED's returning from a successful venture everyone was in good spirits and celebrated. So it was of little wonder that the pool was packed with frolicking youths and lounging staff. In a more secluded area, towards one end of the massive pool sat a group of figures, all of who watched a drama being played out on a group of tumbling mats. Two men circled each other slowly, sizing one another up while the ring of observers watched. Seifer, Raijin, both grandstanding, and both having something to prove to the ladies watching intently. Or so they thought. "Why are we watching this?" Celest grumbled, fidgeting with her swimsuit sourly. "Because you want to indulge their macho nonsense." Xu yawned watching with interest as a new batch of barbecued ribs was thrown onto the nearby grills. "That’s a little harsh." Nicole frowned at Xu's comment as she sipped quietly on a lime daiquiri. "Fight me then." Xu grinned, cutting her a sarcastic look. "They're just doing what comes naturally." Jaya smiled, the lust evident in her eyes as she watched the men square off. "Ladies please." Quistis sighed from her lounge chair as she soaked up the sunrays. "I think it's cute. They're just showing off." Nicole grinned as Raijin ran past, holding Seifer in the air like a sack of potatoes. "Hey, let em cut loose, we needed some fun around here." Zell shrugged as he padded towards them with a freshly grilled hamburger. "You are fighter also?" Miguel asked curiously. "Yeah I suppose so." Zell answered modestly. "Come then, let us battle." Miguel chuckled brightly, his craggy eyes dancing as he unbuttoned his shirt to reveal a broad powerful chest. "What?" Zell balked; his mouth full of grilled cheeseburger. "WUSS." Fujin snorted, from beside Quistis. "The man's a friggin bear, you fight him." "She'll do no such thing." Quistis scolded, looking at him from over her sunglasses. "I do not fight women." Miguel smiled wolfishly. "They are for other things." "Oh for the love of..." Quistis groaned. "Raijin! Where the hell did you find this guy?" She shouted laughingly. "Zell, go kick his butt!" She blurted, shoving him in the back with her foot. "Yes, Ma'am!" Zell shouted eagerly then tackled the larger man. "You're actually encouraging this." Xu asked curiously. "Of course." Quistis grinned. "Now that the boys are gone we can have a little chat. Celest get over here!" "Crap." Celest winced. "Aw Quistis what did I do now?" "Nothing, nothing, sit down." "What's this about?" "GOSSIP." Fujin huffed. "Yeah Celest, what's up?" Xu asked inquisitively. "Hi guys." Ellone beamed, unwittingly interrupting the interrogation as she plopped down beside Quistis' lounger. "Ellone, hi, we missed you at breakfast." Quistis smiled warmly. "I know, I'm sorry I overslept." "Well at least you're here now; it'd be a shame for you to miss a day like this." "Speaking of which, where's you suit." Celest wondered curiously, noting her simple blouse and modest skirt. "I didn't have one." Ellone explained as she slipped off her shoes and dipped her feet in the water. "You should have come to me, I would have loaned you one." Celest said. "Don't do it." Xu mumbled. "You shut up." Celest barked. "THONG." Fujin added dully. "You too!" Celest snapped again. Ellone giggled brightly and regarded Celest graciously. "Thanks but I'm okay." "Ah well." Celest shrugged then began to stand. "Hold on there." Quistis said quickly as Nicole and Xu grabbed her arms. "Oh come on." Celest whined, sitting back down. "You're not getting away that easy." Xu chuckled. Zell and Miguel's antics enveloped Seifer and Raijins' as well and soon all four men spilled into the water with a loud splash. Annoyed that her entertainment was foiled Jaya turned around to listen to the ensuing gossip. "Come on Celest, rumor says you're up to something big." Nicole grinned. "What are you talking about?" Celest said, feigning innocence. "Something's brewing between you and Seifer." Xu explained further. "We're dating now, but that’s common knowledge." Celest shrugged. Fujin made a noise but a gentle look from Quistis quieted her. "Oh wow, really?!" Ellone blinked in surprise, earning a questioning look from everyone. "Um...sorry, I'm kinda out of the loop." She squeaked then motioned for them to continue. "There's nothing to tell." Celest mumbled awkwardly, uneasy at being under so much scrutiny. "Dating eh, interesting." Xu prodded. "Have you two, you know?" She grinned salaciously. "Hey!" Celest gawked in shock. "Oh dear." Nicole blushed as Quistis' eyes widen slightly but remained quiet while Fujin decided to go investigate the potential for freshly grilled goodies. "Um, did what?" Ellone asked innocently, earning yet another look from the girls present. "Sex." Jaya explained in a tone that was annoying similar to that used when mothers explained things to children. "Oh, okay." Ellone blushed then took a long draw from Quistis' drink in an attempt to appear unfazed. "Hey!" Quistis complained. "Ack!" Ellone jumped, waving her hands in a mix of embarrassment and confusion "Oh, I'm sorry." She groaned in dismay. "Jeeze." Xu snorted, trying not to laugh. "It's okay." Quistis smiled. "You can have it." Nicole took an understanding breath and remained quiet. "I'll uh, just sit here, um...go on, just ignore me..." Ellone mumbled meekly. With the minor drama resolved, Xu turned back to Celest who looked more than eager to run away. "No." Celest said bluntly. "Not that it's any of your business." "Ouch!" Xu winced. "And you deserved it." Quistis smiled, then regarded Celest thoughtfully. "We're just worried hon, that’s all." "Thanks, but I'm a big gal." Celest responded somewhat defensively. "Do not be mad at her. Seifer, he is handsome man." Jaya commented. "Oh no doubt, he's a stud, but lets face facts, he's a jerk." Xu scowled. "Hey!" Celest protested. "Oh be nice you two, honestly though I have to agree, he's pretty dashing in a rugged sort of way." Nicole grinned, blushing slightly. "Better not let Zell hear you say that, you'll break his little heart." Quistis chuckled. "What, you don't agree?" Xu asked. "Hardly my type." Quistis shrugged. "Hey you don't count anyway." Celest snapped sarcastically. "That was a cheap shot." Quistis scowled slightly. "That was cold." Xu agreed then regarded Ellone. "What do you think?" "Um, who me?" Ellone balked. "Yeah you." "It was kind of a tacky comment." "Not that you goof, Seifer." "Oh, him, um, I guess he's okay." She shrugged. "Can we not talk about him like he's a side of beef please?" Celest finally blurted. "Defensive little thing isn't she." Xu said in surprise. "Oh quit tormenting her." Nicole scolded. "Really Xu, reign it in a little." Quistis agreed. "Okay, sorry." Xu sighed, rolling her eyes. "Pardon her, she's got heat dementia." Quistis explained jokingly. "I'm leaving." Celest blurted. "You're leaving, but it's still early." Nicole frowned. "Oh hey, I didn't mean to run you off." Xu said apologetically. "I was just picking with you." "That’s not what I mean." Celest explained. "She is coming with us." Jaya piped in cheerfully causing everyone to look at her in shock. "Huh, you mean you're leaving, leaving?" Quistis stammered. Celest winced. "Oh my." Nicole gasped lightly as Fujin returned with a paper plate full of barbecued ribs. "You're shitting us?" Xu blurted in shock, caught completely caught off guard. "Are you serious?" Nicole prodded further. "Well, to be honest..." Celest shirked. "Yes, yes I am, we'll be leaving the day after tomorrow." "You're just up and leaving Balamb, just like that?" Xu stammered. "Yup." Celest shrugged. Fujin's expression darkened as she began to get the gist of the conversation. Quistis was floored and it showed as she took off her sunglasses. "This is a surprise..." She managed through the lingering shock. "What made you decided to do this?" She asked, concerned. "Seifer asked me to." Celest smiled, giving him a wave. Seifer paused enough to smile back and was promptly tackled anew. "IDIOT." Fujin sputtered, shaking her head. "Well that’s one opinion." Celest shrugged. "Oh Wow." Xu mumbled. "This is a kick in the shorts." "Yeah really." Nicole nodded in a stupor. "How long will you be gone?" Quistis asked, concerned. "I have no idea." Celest shrugged with a relaxed smile. "What will you do?" Xu frowned. "Anything we want, see the world, help people, whatever." "BUMS." Fujin snorted. "I resent that." Jaya scowled. "TRUTH." Fujin scoffed. "You are a rude woman. Speak not to me." Jaya huffed, ignoring her. "Fujin, please." Quistis whispered, touching her shoulder lightly. "APOLOGY..." Fujin sighed. "Accepted." Jaya nodded, obviously vindicated. "Look, I was kinda hoping you guys would happy for me." Celest pouted. "You all know a girl has to make her own path at some point. Hell, I'm tired of doing what everyone expects of me, I want to be spontaneous!" She said with a giddy flourish. "Then dye your hair, get a tattoo, go streaking, do anything but run off half cocked. I mean surely you've not had the time to give this much thought." Quistis offered worriedly. "That's the whole point!" Celest giggled, causing Jaya to giggle as well. "It is great fun; we will see the world and do many things." She laughed, spreading her arms excitedly. "Oh Hyne." Ellone giggled. "You go girl." "Don't encourage her." Quistis sighed. "I think it's neat." Nicole finally commented after much deliberation. "I wish I could be so spontaneous, but I'm to big a chicken." "Well thanks you two, at least someone sees where I'm coming from." "Easy hon, no ones against the idea." Quistis started while Fujin coughed in protest. "Well...uh...anyway, what I was say is, that you should think this out, it's a big decision." "Quisty, I'm flattered you're worried but, like I said, I'm a big girl, I'll be okay." "Do you love him?" Xu said, asking the question most were avoiding. Celest frowned thoughtfully then shrugged slightly. "Perhaps, I dunno... but I want to find out. This way we'll have to time to explore." Fujin shook her head but stayed silent. "Okay then." Quistis sighed, obviously disappointed but resigned to respect her decision. "Looks like you made up your mind. What are you going to tell Irvine, how do you think he'll react." "SEIFER DEAD." Fujin mumbled. "That’s an understatement I bet." Xu chuckled. "Her brother yes?" Jaya asked curiously. "Yes." Quistis sighed. "Then he will be supportive." "If you say so." Xu whistled. "Oh he'll be fine; Irvine's a laid back kind of guy." Nicole said optimistically. "It's funny." Ellone giggled quaintly. "What?" Quistis asked curiously. "Nothing really, it's just all this talk about Seifer brought back some memories." "Oh really?" Celest said arching a brow. "You two have a history? He never told me." "Interesting." Jaya smiled scandalously. "It's not what you think." Quistis explained quickly sensing some growing tension. "Oh, no, no." Ellone giggled, shaking her head. "I used to baby sit these guys when I was younger. "What?" Nicole and Celest gawked. "Oh yes it's true." Ellone smiled briskly. "NEVER TOLD." She frowned. "Yeah, Trepe." Xu added sourly "I'm sorry, it never came up." Quistis shirked. Glad to finally have something interesting to talk about, Ellone eagerly scooted forward to share. "Yeah it was hilarious." She winked at Fujin. "They were a terror, oh and Quistis, you were such a snobby little thing." She giggled. "Um... no offense." Quistis only smiled. "Look who my peers were." She shrugged, nodding towards Seifer who was roaring like gorilla in heat while shoving Raijin under the water. "Oh and poor Seifer, he was such a bed wetter." Ellone grinned, watching them roughhouse. "SEIFER WET BED?" Fujin snorted. "Oh yes, like every night, it was horrible, I had to wash his sheets constantly because he didn't want Edea to know." "Great..." Celest groaned. "Too much info." Xu mouthed while Nicole and Quistis exchanged glances. Fujin meanwhile sat back on her hands and basked in her own humorous thoughts. "He was like six years old." Ellone said in his defense. "Does he still?" Jaya asked Celest curiously. "The tents, they are cramped." "How the heck should I know!?" Celest barked evasively. "Well kiddies, it's about that time!" Zell announced clamoring out of the water. Seifer, Miguel and Raijin soon joined him; all were panting and laughing heartily. Seifer felt a chill and looked to Fujin who was eyeing him with an intense and downright sinister grin. "What the hell's your problem?" He asked, somewhat spooked. "BED WETTER." She said, slow and deliberately, her lips curling into a wicked smile. ******************* All was calm on the Ragnarok, which Quistis found far more enjoyable than the anarchy Fujin's comment caused. Zell was at the controls, steadily singing out of tune with some loud, erratic rock band, while Fujin sat at her side wearing a catty, satisfied grin. "You should see yourself." Quistis said quietly. "Hmm?" Fujin mumbled, looking to her curiously. "He had a fit." "WAS GOAL." "It was mean." "DESERVED IT." "True, but still, you made an ass out of him. Zell and Raijin will never stop hounding him now." "EVEN BETTER." "You have a cruel streak; I hope you are aware of that." "YES." "Good, just so you know." "THANK YOU." "So bad..." Quistis sighed, chuckling to herself. "How are you lovely ladies doing back there?" Zell asked, turning to face them sporting two black eyes and a silly grin. "Oh jeeze." Quistis laughed at the sight of him. "You really should've gotten fixed up before we left." "I'm alright, besides it was worth it." Zell smiled merrily. "So long as you're good to fly." "I'm cool, I'm cool. Fujin, tell her." "HE'S COOL." Fujin answered blandly so he'd shut up. "See." He smiled, giving two thumbs up. "How much farther do we have to go Mr Cool?" Quistis asked. "On approach now." He answered, as the Ragnarok easily made the transition into space. A low electric buzz filled the cockpit as the ship's antigravity system came into effect. Once positive that she was not going to be bouncing off the walls, Fujin undid he seatbelt and moved closer to the windows to peer out. "BEAUTIFUL." She mouthed in awe. "Oh neat, this is your first time going up isn't it?" Quistis smiled. Fujin nodded eagerly, her gaze dancing with child like wonder. Quistis watched her warmly, smiling brightly as Fujin scampered forward and leaned over Zell's seat to gaze upward from the cockpit as a massive vessel passed over them. "Pretty cool huh?" Zell grinned. Fujin nodded speechless. "That’s a cargo vessel." He explained as he turned the ship slightly. "And that." He said pointing ahead. "Is our destination. The Grandia." "AMAZING." Fujin gawked at the colossal station as it came into view. The structure was easily larger than Balamb but shared a similar artistic flair. Large portions of the resort housed gleaming blue tinted solar panels that mixed form and functionality. Overall the resort looked something similar to a great diamond spinning lazily in space. "Oh wow." Quistis said in surprise. "They've came a long way, I didn't even know this place was open yet." "Well, you've um, been away for awhile. They opened for business last month." Zell explained. "OPULENT." Fujin said quietly. "Very, but hey, if you can afford it, why not." Quistis shrugged. "To rich for my blood." Zell chuckled as he brought the ship around to one of the exit docks. Fujin returned to her seat and looked at Quistis smilingly as Zell made docking procedures. Finally after a lengthy wait, the ship docked and the airlock cycled. "We're here." Zell announced climbing out of his seat. "You ladies wait here I'll go round up the love birds." He said eagerly, bounding out of the cockpit. "You know what?" Quistis sighed happily. "Hmm?" Fujin responded contently. "As soon as I get my strength back you and I are coming here." Fujin laughed. "What's so funny?" "EXPENSIVE." Fujin gawked. "So?" "NEGATIVE." "You'd love it, I can tell, look at you, you can hardly sit still already." Quistis smirked. Fujin shrugged her shoulders shyly and giggled. Her merriment was as much infectious as it was uncommon and Quistis couldn't help but join in. "I don't think I've ever seen you so cheerful." "SORRY." "No, don't be sorry." Quistis smiled, leaning over towards her slowly. Fujin met her halfway but the moment was ruined as Rinoa screamed in shock. Startled and off balance Fujin fell forward, nearly toppling out of her seat as Quistis raised up sharply. "Quisty!" Squall blurted as Zell hopped up and down laughing like a psychotic imp. "Hi guys." Quistis smiled brightly. "When, how!?" Rinoa stammered in tear filled wonder. "Long story." Quistis giggled. "Oh man, she's not kidding, you wouldn't believe it." Zell explained exuberantly as Squall moved forward slowly. "Squall." Quistis smiled, only to be caught off guard as he leaned to embrace her tightly. "We thought we lost you." He whispered hoarsely, his voice thick with emotion. Touched but the rare show of affection, Quistis patted his back gently. "I'm fine hon, I'm back." She said soothingly. "That’s beautiful man." Zell bawled unabashedly. Fujin couldn't help but chuckle aloud as Rinoa shoved Squall away to steal a hug of her own. "Hyne I missed you so much, I'm so sorry for being a jerk, I'm sorry for not listening. I'm sorry for everything!" She babbled in near hysteria while fighting through choking sobs. "Oh stop it you guys." Quistis blushed, wiping at her eyes. "You're going to get me started. Letting go, Rinoa turned to Fujin with arms wide open. "Fuji!" She shouted even as Fujin intercepted her and declined the hug graciously. "You can thank Fujin and Ellone." Quistis explained as Squall stared at the reunion with an awkward smile. "Oh let it out." Zell prodded, wiping tears from his own, swollen and blackened eyes. Squall tried to give him a sour look but failed miserably. Instead he pointed curiously. "What happened?" "Seifer." Zell giggled wildly, causing Squall to eye him suspiciously. ******************** After everyone had settled enough think, Squall and Zell went to stow the luggage while Rinoa and Quistis chatted madly back and forth while Fujin sat listening half heatedly. Finally with everything packed away the boys returned with Zell babbling about the recent drama's while Squall seemed back to his normal aloof self. "Have you picked Selphie and Irvine up yet?" Squall asked, sitting down in the copilot seat. Pausing he sniffed the air. "I smell perfume?" "Fujin's doing." Zell grumbled. "She uh... said the cockpit smelled like feet." "I wonder why?" Squall said derisively. "I told you not to prop your feet on the console." "Those shoes were killing me; I needed to get the swelling down. Besides it's been like four weeks." "You've always done that." Squall groaned as they separated from the resort. "What was it you said? Oh yeah I remember; Something like; If I don't get to fly then I'll resort to chemical warfare." "Bah." Zell grumbled, bringing the ship around so it could begin its reentry. Thirty minutes later, the Ragnarok found itself nearing Deling's airport on final approach. Fifteen minutes after that the ship had landed and the docking ramp lowered. Zell and Rinoa exited the craft in search of Irvine and Selphie. The search was easy, Selphie could be seen waddling towards them, wearing a floppy wide sun hat, while Irvine lumbered behind her carrying a monstrous amount of shopping bags, luggage and dragging two mobile storage racks full of odds and ends. Neither Zell nor Rinoa gave any indication of the surprise the two honeymooners had waiting. "I'm going to kill him." Selphie barked as she met up with and stormed past Zell. "Selphie?" Rinoa gawked, turning to look at her curiously. "Oh dude, what'd you do?" Zell grinned at Irvine. "Baby's been kicking. She blames me." Irvine shrugged devoid of will. "We'll you are the father." Rinoa grinned. Irvine moaned it humorous dismay. "Did you have fun at least?" Rinoa asked hopefully. "Oh yeah it was great." Irvine nodded. "Damn man let me help." Zell laughed as Irvine struggled with the mountain of baby gear. "Thanks." Irvine smiled appreciatively as Rinoa and Zell took a share of the load. Rinoa looked curiously at stack. "Um think you have enough stuff?" "Don't ask me, she's in charge." Irvine nodded up ahead to Selphie who was already making her way into the ship. Once everyone was aboard, Selphie turned to regard Zell irritably. "Get us out of here, I want to go home and go to bed, I feel like crap." "Um want me to help you get this stuff packed first?" Zell asked, trying to be helpful. "No, I can do it!" Selphie barked, causing him to flinch. "Okay, okay I'm going he stammered. "I'll help you." Rinoa offered. Selphie accepted the offer and pointed to large box containing various foodstuffs. "Sort that." She nodded while Irvine sulked towards the elevator leading to the bridge. He wanted nothing more to be away from her when she was in such a mood. "Come back here." Selphie growled. "Put this stuff up." She snapped, pushing a large box containing an unassembled crib towards him. Resigned to his fate did as she was told. By the time they were done the Ragnarok was well on its way back to Balamb Garden. Those on the bridge could here Selphie complaining even before the elevator arrived. As they appeared, Fujin stood, so that she could avoid any rush. Irvine saw her first and looked surprised. "Oh no." He frowned. Unable to read her features he feared the worst. "What?" Selphie snapped, walking forward a step before seeing her. "Oh whoa, Fujin." She stammered; the irritation in her voice immediately giving way to concern. "What are you doing here?" "What, no hi for me?" Quistis giggled, peeking around from behind the seat. Rinoa laughed brightly, as did Zell, while Squall waited for the ensuing explosion with amusement. Selphie's scream of shock and joy was both deafening and incoherent. Without a second thought she grabbed the person nearest to her in a tight hug. Fujin didn't have a chance to dodge the embrace and accepted it in stride; that is until Selphie's water broke and doused her feet.
Back to Frozen Index - Back to Final Fantasy 8 Shoujo-Ai Fanfiction