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All Final fantasy characters and locations are the exclusive property of Square Enix and do not belong to me.

Every thing else is me and my friends

Ch.17 Getting Even, Settling Scores

He became aware of a steady dripping. One drip every seven or so seconds. From how cold he felt, he could only guess that it was the sound of an I.V. feed. Opening his eyes only a small fraction of a bit he saw the needle sticking out of his arm.

"So, does this mean you're awake?"

Xavier directed his eyes towards the voice. His face distorted in disgust when his eyes fell upon Eric masters.

"You don't look like you're pleased to see me."

"Should I be?" Xavier said feeling around the night stand for his goggles. He remembered than that John had broken them in their fight.

"A new pair is being made for you right now."

Xavier rested his head back on his pillow, there was very little else he could do with out his goggles.

"What happened in Spira?" Eric asked Xavier.

Xavier could tell though that it was more of a demand than a question. Xavier was in no mood for this right now though.

"Ask Drake, he is the one you sent."

"Yes, well he is under quarantine until "Clip" gets back and one of his family members gets here."

Xavier lifted his head and gave Eric Masters a funny look.

"That and you resumed command of your team less than twenty-four hours after they landed in Spira."

Xavier heaved a sigh.

"Fine, Xiedie decided to take a few Faith souls, we decided to try to stop her. She managed to resurrect Sin using John Onikage. He ate me, we talked, and then I killed him. Oh and then his body spewed out a concentrated Black mist and Drake killed Yuna."

Eric gave a slight nod.

"I see, so you talked to John Onikage. What did he have to say to you?"

Xavier glared at Eric.

"If you want to know what happened you'll just have to wait till I give my debriefing to Headmaster Leonheart." Sarcasm oozing from the entire statement.

Irritation flared across Eric masters face ever so slightly.

"That good you say."

Xavier was beyond tired of this conversation.

"I will tell you this much, after my conversation with John I have to start thinking of some one else as my father."

Genuine surprise showed on Eric Masters face as he continued to gaze at Xavier.

"Well that's disturbing. I didn't expect him to even know that, much less give the information up that readily."

"I don't know what I find more disturbing, that I was out right bread for a war that you don't even want to fight or that a god was having sex with my mother."

"It's not that simple..."

"How ain't it simple? You needed a champion, and my parents wanted kids. You knew that Xiedie has no influence in Vana'diel, so it was the perfect place to breed your warrior."

"I wasn't intentionally breeding "My Warrior" as you put it. Your parents were very faithful, and loyal to the avatars. Yes I knew that Xiedie has no influence in Vana'diel, but I was hoping to give you the choice to fight her or not. That's all I ever wanted from you was to choose to fight with me, or stay out of it and be safe. I had no clue that Xiedie would find out about you and send John to destroy your village."

"If you wanted me to have a choice why did you send Shyri, her daughter, to me and my family in Beartree?"

"First off Xiedie only has one child and that is Dami'tu. She considers the five that survived her experiment her children as well, but they are not. I sent Shyri to you specifically at a time in your lives when you both needed a friend. She had been on the run from shortly after her birth till she got to you. Ever wonder how she got that scar under her eye, or why she is so timid around people she doesn't know?"

"I knew she had abusive guardians, what kind of friend would I be if I didn't know that?"

"She was hated every where she went because she was a half-breed, she was week, and frail."

"Drake is a half-breed, and he turned out just fine."

"Drake was taken in at birth by his dragon mother and taught from birth to be a Dragoon knight. And before you can even think of saying it, his entire village hated him and would gang up on him till he started fighting back."

Xavier sat there thinking for a bit.

"I sent her to you because you had reached a point in your training where your cousin couldn't teach you any more, so you had reached a plateau as it were. You were getting restless, and distant. You were becoming self-destructive, and were taking it out on the people around you."

"You know something, I already know this story, and before you can hit me with any more of your cryptic bull shit I'm going to go and check on my team mates."

Eric Masters didn't bother to ask how he intended to check on his team with out his goggles. He just watched as his creation, his son got out of bed and tore the sensors from his body. He watched as he removed the needle from his arm stopping the I.V. drip. He watched as Dr. Greene came rushing to the door, but seeing Xavier's naked ass pulling on his shorts just shook her head and walked away.

"So what is it you intend to do?" Eric asked as Xavier was pulling on his shirt.

"I told you, I am going to check on my team mates."

"After that?"

"I don't know. I haven't been debriefed yet. I would assume though that with such a large-scale attack from her side it won't be long and the attacks will start."

Eric thought about this for a second. He had to admit that it made sense.

Eric was intending to ask how Xavier intended to go about checking on his team mates when he couldn't see. But Xavier just pulled out a pair of goofy tanning goggles and put them on. Eric had to work really hard to not laugh at Xavier in those bright yellow things. They made him look like an alien.

Out in the Hall

Terrin watched as the door to Xavier's room in the infirmary opened up and Xavier walked out. Terrin didn't even bother to get up, he was still tired.

"If you rush your healing, your injuries will just return, and at the most inopportune time."

"Thanks for the council. How long have I been down?"

"Three days."

"And how long have you been there?"

"Three days."

Xavier lifted an eyebrow at the meditating Galka.

"You've been sitting there for three days."

"Yes"

"No food, no sleep, no bath, nothing?"

Terrin opened his eyes and looked up at Xavier.

"Don't be ridicules, I have both eaten and bathed. The nurses were nice enough to point me towards the staff showers, and wash my clothes while I was doing so."

"How did you eat than?"

"Mr. Masters gave me a combat P.D.A. and I ordered something from the café."

"How nice of him." Xavier commented darkly.

"The food here is great, I recommend the BBQ ribs. Just like mom used to make."

Xavier lifted an eyebrow at Terrin because he couldn't tell if he was being sarcastic or funny.

"You never knew your mother."

"I know that, But had I a mother that is how I would assume that she would make ribs."

"Fair enough."

"That and your Aunt couldn't cook to save her life or ours."

"Amen to that brother. Amen to that."

Xavier looked down the hall to the rest of the rooms. He immediately knew who was in what room just by looking. Ava was in the first room down from his. He could tell because of the mana fields shrouding the room. Ashlin was across the hall from her. The fluctuating Mako was the give away. Just down the hall from Ashlin was "Z". He came to that conclusion because of the two rooms with there critical lights on, hers was the only one that didn't have armed security guards or Emmy sitting in front of it.

Slowly Xavier made his way down the hall stopping at each room as he did. Drew was sitting with Ava. Together they watched as Ava slumbered.

"How is she doing?"

Drew looked finally noticing Xavier.

"She is doing ok; they finally got done detoxing her about two hours ago. They started her on an I.V. drip to get her fluids back up and get some nutrients back in her."

Xavier looked down at the fragile girl lying before him. She did look better. Still very pale, but at least her veins weren't showing.

"As long as she is doing alright I guess."

As Xavier made to leave Drew grabbed his arm.

"Close the door blind and turn off the lights, I want you to see something."

Xavier gave her a funny look, but curiosity got the better of him and he closed the blinds and turned off the lights. Xavier took off the tanning glasses and walked back to Drew.

"Ok what is it you wanted to show me?"

Before he knew what was happening Drew threw back the covers off of Ava. Xavier was surprised to see that Ava was lying completely nude under the covers. Xavier quickly averted his eyes away from the nude girl before him.

"What is it you want me to see?"

"Oh just look down at her, she is so far out she won't be able to remember any thing happening right now."

Cautiously Xavier looked down at Ava.

"Ok, what?"

"Look at this."

Xavier followed Drew's pointing finger as it traced along Ava's tiny breasts. It took him all of a second to realize that Drew was pointing at a neat line of black dots that followed the curve of the lower hemisphere of the small breasts. They started at about the outer limit of the breast and followed the curve right under her areola and nipples, than arched back up to the center of her chest, converging in one dot. He also noticed that they started out small and progressively got bigger. The smallest being the size of a pins head, the biggest being as big as a pencils eraser.

"Yes very interesting, Ava got tattoos on her boobs." Xavier said averting his eyes up again.

"No she didn't." Drew said with some disgust. She also noticed that Xavier was averting his eyes again.

"Ava is a purist, or straight edge, what ever you want to call it. Any thing that will interfere with her magic she won't do. No drugs, no alcohol, no body changes. I'm surprised that she consumes salt, sugar, caffeine, or chocolate honestly. Look again, there burns, not ink."

Xavier looked down again, and bent in closer.

"Can... you give me a hand here I don't want to touch her like this."

Drew complied and gently moved the tiny mound of flesh so Xavier could see the dots better. Drew was right they were burns. But they were also pure black.

"She's got more down here."

"I am not looking down there."

"They're on her belly you perv."

"Fine but cover her up to at least her waist, please."

Drew complied and took a shot at Xavier in the process.

"Has Xavier Lofbrah learned some modesty?"

"No, I just don't want to be accused later of looking at a minor girls goods."

"She's 21 "X"."

"I really don't want to see her goods, what's so wrong with that."

"You've seen "Z's"."

"I've seen most of "Z"; except for that part of her, much to her disappointment."

"And Rikku?"

"I am not having this conversation with you."

Xavier finally looked down and Drew was right. Ava had another set of burn dots going across her belly converging at her belly button.

"She also has one on her left hand. It looks like a splash and one on the back of her neck too."

Xavier had other things to do than sit here and wonder how or why Ava had burns all over her body.

"Ok, take pictures of them and send copies to Lulu. She can look at them and when Yuna is better she can look at them too."

Drew nodded her head in agreement and finally let Xavier leave. Xavier then went to Ashlin's door and just looked in the window. He closed his eyes and felt the flow of Mako flowing into the room. He decided to not go into the room. Ashlin needed his rest and was naturally evening out his Mako levels. Still though from here he couldn't tell if the Ashlin that was struggling to stay in the light or the Ashlin that relished in the darkness was the Ashlin that was in control.

Xavier made his way to "Z's" room next. Upon entering the room he was greeted with a bright smile and a cheery "HI!" Xavier closed the blinds and turned the lights down way low. Xavier re took off the tanning glasses.

"Those glasses make you look like an alien."

"Glad to see you are at least in a good mood."

"Never better."

"You're lying to me."

"Z" was slightly taken aback.

"Why do you say that "X"?"

"While I was in side Sin-ikage I was able to see who was doing what out side. Me and John watched as we talked."

"Z" turned her head away from Xavier.

"I know your Limit-Break. I know it feeds off your rage. Yours was the move that killed Sin-ikage. I saw the destruction of Besaid."

Xavier watched as "Z" continued to look out the window. He watched as a tear left her eye.

"How much of that did you do?"

"I don't know." Her answer was a near whisper.

Xavier sat on the edge of the bed and placed a hand on her cheek and gently turned her head to face him. Her eyes were full of hurt and sorrow.

"What is wrong Dear?"

"Z" threw herself into in to Xavier's arms and broke down. Xavier put his arm around her shoulder and let her cry. It didn't take long and she fell asleep. Xavier let himself out of the room as quietly as he could. Finally he made his way down to Drakes room. As he approached Emmy stood up from where she had sat on the ground. The guards did nothing but stand watch at the door.

"How's he..."

Xavier's words were cut short as Emmy struck him across the face. Xavier was admittedly taken aback by the violent action. Xavier turned his head back to look at Emmy and was shocked to see how pissed she was.

"I'm not entirely sure I deserved..."

Emmy struck him again across the opposite cheek.

Xavier turned his head back to look in to Emmys furious glare.

"I am starting to get the impression you're pissed at me."

Xavier caught Emmys swing this time.

"And I would really like to know why, or do you intend to just beat on me all day."

The two of them stood there glaring at each other.

"I could do this all day."

"So can I "X"!"

"Do you even know if I'm looking at you?"

Emmy was about to say something than caught her self. She didn't know if he was looking at her.

"Now are you ready to talk civilly or not."

"No not really but I have no choice since I can't over power you and I can't tell if you're looking at me."

"Yeah doesn't it suck to do something you don't want to do?"

"Is that the explanation you're going to give me?"

"For what?" Xavier asked still lost.

"This!" Emmy said thrusting a finger at Drakes door.

"Well what the hell do you want me to say. He got injured in the line of duty."

"Because of you!"

"Because of me. How the hell is this my fault?"

"You left."

"Yes I left. I left so I could get better. I am still not seeing how this is my fault."

"Because you left he was left in charge. The stress was too much for him obviously."

"Stress had nothing to do with this sweet cheeks. Xiedie did this."

Emmy lost her line of argument. For as intelligent as she was, it had never occurred to her that just maybe Xavier had nothing to do with Drakes injuries. Emmy turned back to look through the window. Drake was heavily sedated and sleeping very restlessly.

"What's wrong with him than?"

"He is poisoned."

"How?"

"When our target died, a thick concentration of dark Myst erupted from his dead body. It covered the world affecting a lot of people the same way it affected Drake."

Xavier watched as Emmy continued to look through the window at Drake. Concern etched deeply into her you face. Gently she put a hand up on the glass.

"So, Drake huh?"

Emmy looked over her shoulder at Xavier than back through the window.

"Yeah, Drake."

"Any particular reason?"

"Because the man I wanted to spend the rest of my life with has already given his entire being to another woman."

Xavier continued to watch Emmy.

"I got tired of waiting for you to get over her. I secretly hoped you would never find her, and that I might be able to have you as my own."

"Why is it that all my female friends want me?" Xavier asked with a lopsided grin.

When Emmy looked back at him she giggled at the site.

"I don't know Xavier. Maybe it is your charisma, or dashing good looks. Maybe it is the mystery that is you. Maybe it is your indomitable loyalty and dedication. Or just maybe it is because you're such a bad ass and the kind of guy parents don't want their little girls bringing home. The truth more than likely lies somewhere in the middle."

Emmy turned back to the window.

"But your dedication and loyalty has caused you to push a lot of people away from you. I felt it was time that I grow up and find a more stable and level-headed person to ga-ga over. Some one with out so much baggage."

Emmy turned back to Xavier again with a teasing smile.

"Some one that wasn't you." Emmy said sticking her tongue out playfully.

Xavier held his arms out, and Emmy walked into them.

"He might surprise you dear. He ain't as level-headed or baggage free as you might think."

Emmy let go and went back to the window.

"We'll see."

"I also wouldn't wait to much longer to tell him how you feel. Drake is kind of oblivious to things like that."

Emmy nodded her head, not looking at Xavier. Xavier was going to say more but he caught a glimpse of movement and noticed a guard moving towards him.

"Finally time for a debriefing. This should be fun."

Creedington Ranch, WINHILL

"Clip" let out a deep breath he had been holding to calm himself. Carefully he placed his open hand over the practice dummy, palm down. Slowly he moved the hand from the top of the dummies head to the bottom of its feet. He was trying to diagnose if anything else was wrong. He knew that he was being tested. He knew that his Father, Grand father, Uncles, Aunts, elder cousins, and any other Clan elders that felt like showing up were watching him with the utmost scrutiny. He knew he was being timed and time was running out. Slowly he brought his hand back up, feeling deeper. Just as he was about to give up something caught his attention. Just beneath where the heart would have been on a living person laid a dormant poison. With a flourish of his hand he drew the poison out and healed it.

Finally after hours of being tested he knew he was done. He knew he was because by Creedington clan law every elder who attended could add any ailment, injury, status effect, or what not they wanted, however they could only add three.

Doing a really quick head count "Clip" guessed that there were ten elders present, at three ailments a pieces that made thirty ailments. The dormant poison had been the thirtieth ailment. He was done; he just now had to wait for the results of his test.

"Are you finished Cliphord Creedington?"

"Clip" looked up to see the head elder standing up and addressing him. Aunt "Jus" was older than dirt. Her hunched posture and worn demeanor showed just how old she was. But her fierce eyes missed nothing.

"Elder Justance, I feel I have finished the exam and submit the subject for counsel inspection and final analysis." He said with a slight bow.

He watched as a warm tired smile spread across her face as she indicated the door he was to wait behind as the rest of the elders inspected the dummy. "Clip" bowed again to the elders and went out the indicated door.

"Clip" took his time getting out of the clan robes that all testes had to ware and got back into his own clothes. Not knowing how long it would take "Clip" settled in for along debate. He knew how his family, especially the elders were. They would sit there and knit pick every last thing he did. Every last twitch, fidget, even drop of sweat would be discussed to extreme lengths.

He was not sure how long he had been sitting and he got the distinct feeling he had fallen asleep even, but when the door banged open and an apprentice waved for him to come back out "Clip" shot to his feet and followed, the tails of his trench coat trailing behind him.

He felt like he was facing a firing squad instead of family members as he waited for the elders to pass judgment on him. Once again the head elder stood on her shaky legs and approached a daïs that had been brought in. As Head elder Justance fixed her piercing gaze upon him he knew he was looking his executioner right in the face.

"Cliphord Clay Creedington do you know why you have come before us this day?"

"Clip" was slightly caught off guard, but answered any way.

"I was summoned here today by my father, Elder Lawrence Creedington. I was under the assumption that I might be tested by him and then taught the higher level spells and remedies. The family secrets if you will."

"And what makes you think that you deserve these coveted secrets. From what I am to understand you have been missing from your family homestead for almost a year. A year Cliphord. What have you been doing that you have been away for so long, instead of here training?"

"I have been at Balamb Garden assisting Headmaster Leonheart and a group of his students known as Team X-treme."

"And you are aware that clan law forbids such acts. You know that it is strictly forbidden to get involved in other factions affairs. Not to mention that we as Willhillians shun Leonheart and his academy."

"I know this."

"And yet you stayed."

"I was also using their medical equipment to further my research into the improvement of our clans organic healing items."

"Even if that were so I hear tell that you have gallivantd all over the world helping your new-found friends battle a sorceress. Yet another act that is strictly forbidden. And to make matters worst, in a letter to your parents you make mention of the fact that you have had relations with a female in ways that are deemed inappropriate of unwed members of the clan."

"Clip" hung his head, he knew he was defeated. He had broken to many of the clans traditions. He could feel his imminent exile upon him, and figured if he was going to go down, than by the gods he was going to do it swinging.

"Well Cliphord, do you have any thing to say in your defense, or should we just pass judgment now."

"Would it matter either way Aunty Jus?"

Addressing her so informally elected sharp gasps from a lot of the elders. However Head elder Justance just smiled.

"It might "Clip" lets hear what you have to say." And with that she took her seat.

"Clip's" nerves were shot, and he was more than done with this interrogation. But he had committed to the cause and he was going to give it to these stubborn old fools with both barrels.

"I do not deny any thing that was just said. As you can see I stand before you not in the robes of a trainee or an acolyte. But I stand here in the clothes that I ware while I work. A style I adopted from my father with great pride though he feels I am disrespectful most of the times.

Yes one year ago when I went to cave of trials to battle Ifrit I did not return. I stayed with Headmaster Leonheart's students out of curiosity, than out of purpose. He and his medical staff offered me an opportunity to use their medical equipment and learn their more modern methods of healing. As I continued my research into organic healing methods I joined Team X-treme because a threat arose that my talents as a dedicated White Mage were sorely needed. This threat was not just some simple mob, or even some terrorist faction, but a true global threat. The sorceress Xiedie has returned, and the Lord Odin has recruited me into the effort to rid the world of her.

I know it is not the Creedington way, to get involved in anything out side of clan business. But damn it if she is not stopped there won't be a world left for us to ignore. And one way or another I am going back to my friends, team mates and girl friend to defeat this threat. So please either teach me the spells or let me go. I have spent enough time here being judged."

"Clip" looked up into the shocked faces of the elders. There were only two members that didn't have a horrified expression on their faces and that were Elder Jus, and his father. "Clip" himself was shocked to see that much honest pride in his fathers face. He watched as his father and Elder Jus shared a look and his father rose to take the daïs. Immediately all conversations and sound stopped.

"Cliphord Creedington, do you hold that every thing you have just said is the absolute truth?"

"Yes sir." "Clip" respond clearly and confidently.

"And do you stand by the convictions you just made?"

"Yes sir, absolutely."

"Than let me ask you this. How's your aim?"

"Clip" gave his father this look of total and complete confusion.

Lawrence just smiled.

Balamb Island

He had to be dreaming, that was the only explanation for it. He hadn't been to the clearing in over 12 years. He swore that he wouldn't either until he had her in his arms again. It was their special place, only they knew about it, and only they could get to it. Gently he pushed aside some brush and he was there in the clearing again. And there she was, standing right next to the water's edge with her back to him. He didn't have to worry about her falling in and getting hurt, the water was never deep.

He wanted to reach out and touch her, if only to prove to himself that he was dreaming, but he couldn't do it. He dared not do it. He knew that if he tried to physically interact with her at all every thing would disappear and he would be left with nothing but pain and suffering. Was it a dream, an illusion, a hallucination, he didn't know or care.

Suddenly she moved. His breath caught in his throat as he watched as she slowly stripped nude in front of him. He knew that he should be looking away, but he couldn't. She was gorgeous. He watched openly gawking as each article of removed clothing revealed more and more of her perfect figure.

He watched as the moon reflected off of skin that he knew was perfect and soft. He watched as her pants hit the ground revealing her perfect legs, no panties, never panties, they hurt her tails, just those perfect legs that were only interrupted about mid-thigh by a narrow band of fur on each leg. Her perfect legs ended at an equally perfect hind-end. He knew from personal hands on observations that that ass was firm, yet soft at the same time. His eyes followed the path of fur up her spine to where her hands were fumble ling with the clasps of her bra. When it fell to the ground he had an unobstructed view of her perfect back, well perfect in his mind at least.

He watched open-mouthed as she walked out into the shallow water, it barely came up above her calves. He watched as she slowly started to sway from side to side. It didn't take long for her swaying to become actual movement. He watched open-mouthed as she moved and spun, water cascading up on to her body. He couldn't tell if she was doing a Kata or dancing. It didn't matter though, either way he was totally enraptured by her movements. He watched hypnotized as her body moved in a fluid unnatural way the he knew that only she could move. The site of her absolutely nude body didn't bother him. Her swaying and bobbing breasts didn't distract him from the whole package one bit. They were but a small part of a larger, much more perfect package. He wasn't ready for it when she suddenly spoke while still dancing.

"You always were my best audience, Xavier. You never judged me, never scrutinized, just watched."

He knew he was hearing her actual voice, and not Xiedies.

It took him a second to find his voice.

"That is because I saw what no one else could see. That you weren't looking to cause a scene, you weren't looking for attention, or trying to get out of a beating."

"So what was I doing than?"

Xavier could feel himself choking up as he spoke.

"You... just wanted to dance. That's all...

Just dance.

You were so happy to wake up each day, able to move, able to live. Not beaten or raped in your sleep, but just to wake up and be your self, happy and free. So you expressed it the only way you could... you danced. And I watched, because even on your worst day, the days you could hardly move because you body hurt so much or you spirits were so crushed, you were still the most amazing, most graceful, most beautiful being I had ever seen... And all you ever wanted was to dance. And I felt so privileged to just be allowed to watch you. So that is what I did, I sat and I watched as you danced."

"I know that you have been through a lot my Dear, sweat Xavier. And there is much more to come before we are together again. I know that life drags you down often."

She suddenly stopped dancing and walked ever so slowly up to him. He watched as the water streamed off her oh so perfect legs and hips. Xavier had to admit that watching those hips sway as she made her way to him was like watching poetry in motion. All at once she dropped down to kneel in front of him, looking him dead in the face. Her beautiful fluid eyes longingly looking deep in to the depths of pain, hurt, and sorrow that were his eyes.

"Just remember Xavier, Life is not about waiting out the storm, but learning how to dance in the rain. And that is how I could dance all the time, because I knew that from the second I started living with you, that each day was going to dawn bright and new. And it would be better than the last."

With that she leaned in, and her soft lips found his. It lasted all of a second, but for them it was a life time. A sudden and loud noise started going off and the dream, illusion state broke.

Xavier sat bolt up right in bed. It had been several days since his debriefing. He was effectively on stand by while every one either held their breath in anticipation of the unseen, or was healing. Xavier turned off the alarm on his P.D.A. He honestly didn't remember setting any alarm, than he looked closer. He had an urgent message. Xavier accessed the message and gave it a once over.

The message was from Headmaster Leonheart. He was summoned up to the Headmasters office. Xavier got out of bed and found his clothes. His goggles still hadn't been replaced, so he put on the tanning glasses and left his apt.

Headmaster Leonhearts Office, Balamb Garden

Squall watched as Xavier came walking through his door. He watched as the young man came walking towards him, still kind of limping. For a brief instance Squall wondered how it was that in a school full of trained mercenaries Team X-treme was the only one up and running properly as well the only one that could handle the continuous problems. Squall made a mental note to hand-pick several teams and get them up to, or at least close to the level of Team X-treme. Though he did get one good laugh out of the situation, Xavier looked so ridiculous in those tanning glasses.

Squall reached into his desk and pulled out a little black box. Shaking his head he slid it across the desk at him. Xavier picked up the box and opened it. Relief washed over him as he pulled out a shiny new pair of goggles. Xavier quickly removed the tanning glasses and pulled the goggles on. As he pulled his bangs through the straps his eyes finally adjusted. He was so happy to finally be able to completely see again.

"Good now that you can see, I have your next mission."

"You're kidding right?"

Squall slid a manila folder across the desk at Xavier. Picking it up he read it quickly.

"You're seriously joking right?"

"No, Alexandria is having a little Myst problem."

"When aren't those morons having a fucking Myst problem?"

"Your team..."

"What's left of it."

"Is to leave immediately to resolve the issue."

"You know what, I'll go. Let the rest of my team rest."

"I know how much you hate Queen Garnet, and King Zidane."

Xavier chuckled.

"However an agent of SeeD has informed me that a man with long silver hair, and a Fox girl have been seen hanging around the castle."

Xavier cussed loudly and proudly.

"Damn it all how soon."

"I'll give you two hours to get your team situated and get back here."

"Two hours sure isn't a lot of time."

"It is plenty of time. And in that time you need to meet up with Mr. Masters, he has some thing he needs to show you."

"Oh wonderful!"

"You think I'm done making your day bad."

"Damn it what else?"

"You're taking him with you." Squall said with a wicked grin and a thumb over his shoulder. Xavier looked behind Squall and his jaw hit the floor. Dami'tu came walking through the balcony door.

"You're kidding, right."

"No I'm not, get ready."

Xavier gave a slight bow and left the office, cussing the entire way.

Alexandria Castle, Alexandria

A sound like rolling thunder rolled over the market place as the shift gate opened, deposited its travelers, and then closed again. Xavier, Terrin, Drew, "Tech", and Dami'tu stood out like a sore thumb. Drew walked up next to Xavier.

"You know we kind of stick out right?"

When Xavier didn't answer her she looked up at him. He wasn't even paying attention; he was just glaring straight ahead. Drew followed Xavier's gaze and found her self looking at the castle. She watched as dark Myst and mobs swarmed the castle. The rest of the group joined them in looking at the castle.

"So who are the good guys, and who are the bad guys?" Terrin asked.

"All of them." Xavier said with out any emotion.

"No seriously." "Tech" said.

"He is serious. Do you see any of those mobs attacking the castle, or the guards?" Dami'tu said watching the mobs.

Every one looked again, and indeed none of the mobs were attacking. As a matter of fact they were just circling as if patrolling the castle.

"So what's the plan?" Drew asked.

"You four are going to follow me to the castle, and stay out-of-the-way for right now. Let me handle every thing till we get to the throne room. Dami'tu if you look the wrong way at the body that Xiedie is inhabiting, I will kill you."

"You need not worry Xavier, when I am in control of my self I have better control of my power."

"What ever."

The four of them just looked at each other not really knowing what else to do. Xavier started moving towards the castle quickly. Terrin, Drew and "Tech" were hot on his heals. As they approached the draw bridge the guards crossed their spears.

"None shall enter the castle."

Xavier didn't even break stride, he just heaved an agitated sigh. All at once the spears fell apart where they had been crossed, and Xavier was sliding Brotherhood back into its holster. Both guards backed out of Xavier's way as he walked by.

"You might want to be else where for the rest of the day." Terrin said as the rest of the team walked by.

As they approached the draw bridge it started to close.

"You see, now that is just rude."

Drew pulled her Death Dealers and shot the chains. As the bridge stood there waiting for gravity to decide what to do with it Terrin charged in and threw him self shoulder first at it. As one they moved across the bridge.

"You know before the war, you could only get across this moat by ferry." Xavier said as if giving a tour.

They were greeted at the other side of the bridge by a very busty female knight dressed in white armor that barely contained her. Her blond hair cascaded down her head and over her shoulder, almost concealing her eye patch. She was a stride a very angry-looking Chocobo.

"Lofbrah, you are unwelcome here."

"Oh I am, am I? Since when?"

"Since you can never show proper respect to not only our Queen and King, but to our entire country."

"Why because I let them know just how stupid they are."

The woman drew her sword, and pointed its curving blade right at him.

"I am so sorry. Beatrix these are my team mates Terrin, Drew, and "Tech". Guys this is captain blinky of her majesties busty singlet brigade."

The woman gave a bellow of rage and the Chocobo reared back to lunge. But that is not what happened. With blinding speed Xavier reached up and grabbed the reins of the Chocobo. With a strong jerk the Chocobo's head came crashing beak first in to the ground. With pure contempt for the animal Xavier stomped down hard on the back of its head sending the beak further into the ground, shattering it. This all happened in the same heart beat, the animal didn't suffer long. The very next heart beat Brotherhood flashed through the air again. The chocobos body reared back once again, its head stuck fast in the ground, lifeless.

Beatrix was hurled from the thrashing body of the Chocobo and watched as Xavier started moving towards her. As he walked by the still thrashing body of the dead Chocobo he reached out a snatched a leg, and severed it right at the thigh joint with Brotherhood. Beatrix quickly got to her feet and pointed "Save the Queen" at Xavier once again.

"For the Queen!" Beatrix bellowed as she charged Xavier.

Xavier just side-stepped her. She turned around just in time to get hit across the face with the Chocobo drum stick. Team X-treme watched as the warrior woman went flying through the air and landed in the moat.

"Ouch, not even worthy of getting the Gun Blade, just a Drumstick to the head." "Tech" said with some admiration.

"Are you kidding me that was such a disgusting display. What did that Chocobo do to deserve such cruel treatment?" Drew asked disgusted.

Terrin grabbed the discarded Drumstick and brushed the dirt off before taking a giant bite. "It was born tasting just like chicken."

Dami'tu covered his nose and mouth with his cape, and cast a Fira spell on the Chocobo corpse.

Throne room

The sounds of fighting were clear as day even through the thick double doors of the throne room. Garnet smiled, some one making this much noise, it could only be one person. As if on cue Steiner came crashing through the door, hitting the floor face up and unconscious. Through the smoke and the chaos Xavier Lofbrah and his SeeD companions came walking through as if they were out for a stroll. Xavier was at the head of the group and addressed Garnet directly.

"Ah, your majesty." Xavier bowed with mock respect.

Garnet stood to greet her guests. The sound of creaking leather, and chains filled the room.

"Xavier it is so good to see you again. What brings you to Alexandria?"

Xavier had all he could do to keep from laughing.

"Garnet I see you have decided to dress like the domineering bitch I always knew your were. So all I guess I have to say is. Damn woman, Back that ass up!"

Garnet didn't even look taken aback; however Zidane leapt from his throne in a very pissed off like manner.

"Sit your ass down Zidane, before I kill your bitch-ass." Xavier said in all seriousness.

Suddenly Xavier reacted and pulled Brotherhood, throwing it at a little Black mage boy who had just run into the room, his hand had been getting ready to cast. The boy flew back from the impact of Brotherhood embedding itself in his fore head. Drew shot the Blue mage that had run up behind it.

"If any one even thinks of raising their bitch asses while I'm still here, I'll kill them again."

Xavier made a grasping gesture with his hand, and Brotherhood was back in his hands. Slowly Xavier made his way to where Garnet was still standing. Placing a hand right on one of her breasts, Garnet thought that Xavier was getting fresh till he shoved her back into her throne.

"I am only going to ask this question once nicely. If I have to ask it again one of you will be dead. Where are Xiedie and Sephiroth?"

"Right over here."

Xavier looked at the entrance to the next room and saw Xiedie leaning Shyri's body very seductively against the door frame. Sephiroth was right next to her.

"I see you have come for me at last."

"I figured now that John was out of the way I might as well come for what is mine."

"You are so presumptuous my pet."

Xiedie looked over team X-treme.

"I see you have only brought half of your friends with you, and my son. I hope you keep a short leash on him; he is quite a hand full. I how ever have made several new friends."

With that Team John moved in to view next to Sephiroth. Xavier sniffed at the sight and looked behind him self when he heard movement. Behind them, weapons drawn was Queen Garnet, King Zidane, Vivi, Queena, Steiner, and Beatrix. Xavier did laugh at this sight.

"Ok honestly, even with only half my friends here I still have more than you."

"How do you figure Lofbrah?" Xiedie asked with a little chuckle of her own.

"I have quality, not quantity."

"Quality, what quality. You have with you a half Ahl'bed klutz, a gunner who doesn't want to hurt any one, a door maker Galka, and my son. What kind of quality is that?"

"The only kind that matters, trust."

Every one looked to the entrance of the throne room. Standing there in the giant double door frame was Drake, Ashlin, Ava, "Z", and "Clip".

"That's the difference maker right there, we all trust each other with our lives, even Dami'tu." Drake said as the rest of the team made their way in to the Throne room to stand be hind Garnet, Zidane and their team."

Xiedie looked at them all in a kind of surprised matter. She quickly regained her composure.

"I am surprised at how quickly the rest of you regained your health. Is every one healed properly, hmm? Drake, son, still feeling the effects of the Myst?"

"I'm done telling you that I am not your son."

Xiedie just ignored him.

"Seriously though I want to know how you shook the effects of the Myst so quickly."

"You see I learned this wonderful new spell, a Creedington clan trade secret if you will." "Clip" said stepping forward.

"Creedington, I am surprised you're even still around. You must be the black sheep of the family. Simply just not content to sit around growing flowers all day."

"Clip" was unaffected by the comment and just pushed forward.

"Yeah about that. The Creedington Clan recently had a meeting of the elders and we decided that it was time to take an active role in the world. As we speak Creedington Clan members are being dispersed all over Gaia to purify the lands of your Myst."

Xiedie stood there absolute shock at what "Clip" had just told her. Taking it as a cue to do something "Little" Jon took his pin wheel out and threw it at Drake. In a flash it cleared the different groups just standing there and started to arc at Drake. There was an ear-splitting explosion, and the pin wheel shattered it mid-flight, as did a statue that had happened to be right behind it. All eyes turned to "Clip" who was looking down the sights of a very large .50 cal. Magnum that still had a smoking barrel.

"Oh and I also inherited the family heirloom too while I was home."

Every one stood there looking at each other not really knowing what else to do. Slowly Dami'tu reached up to his right shoulder. With a flourish he threw off his cape, getting ready for the fight that was about to start. Xavier pulled "Brotherhood" from his side and pointed it right at Xiedie.

"She is going home today, and she is going home with me."

Xiedie fixed Xavier with a "Come hither" look, and laid the "Bedroom Eyes" on extra thick. For effect she ran her hands over the front of her daughter's body.

"If you want it, come get it, Lover." Xiedie said giving a very provocative "Come here" finger wiggle.

All hell broke loose. Drake immediately took flight after "Little" Jon. Another thing he had gotten tired of was this little jack-ass taking pot shots at him. Jon was not ready for the ferociousness of Drakes attack. Drake dodged to the side to let Jon's great sword crash to the ground. In one fluid motion Drake stabbed his spear into the ground and used it as leverage to spin around and deliver a back heal kick to Jon's head sending him flying.

Steiner charged Terrin. He had done dumber things. But right now the once very loyal knight charged the Galka. He was not alone; his life mate was right behind him in his charge. As they closed the gap the one in pink suddenly leapt over the behemoth of a man and tackled Beatrix. Steiner was temporarily distracted and paid dearly for it. Terrin's fist caught Steiner where his solar plexus would have been were he not wearing plate mail. His up ward momentum was brought up short by Terrin's other fist slamming him back to the ground. He hit with such force that he bounced, just high enough to get hit a third time by the back of Terrin's fist. Steiner flew back into the thrones unconscious.

"Z" ducked under a wild swing from Beatrix and delivered a palm strike to the bottom of Beatrix's chin, snapping her head back. Quickly she grabbed her head and drove it into her knee. "Z" clearly heard Beatrix's nose break. "Z" showed little mercy and brought her other knee up just as hard. Keeping one hand on the back of her head "Z" delivered a devastating upper cut that lifted Beatrix off the ground. "Z" spun around and delivered a back heel kick that rivaled Drakes and sent Beatrix sailing into Steiner.

Xavier took the momentary distraction to charge Xiedie. In all the confusion it was easy to slip through the first line. He had Xiedie in his sights he was a few short strides away from her. Time seemed to slow, Xavier felt like he was running through gel. Each stride was painstakingly slow. Xavier reached with all his might, making a desperate attempt to grab her. He was brought up short by a meaty fist to the face. Xavier reeled about and came face to face with "Big" John.

"You know after all these years of trying to get one over on you. Something that I could hold over you, something I can take away from you and watch as you writhe in torment. I for once will be able to defeat you my self."

Xavier turned his head and spat out a ward of blood from John hitting him.

"John even if I was having my worst day ever and you were having your best, you would not be able to best me. Much less keep me from getting to her."

John brought his gun up and drew a bead on Xavier. Xavier dropped down into his fighting stance.

"As a matter of fact John..."

Xavier disappeared. Before John could even begin to register what had happened, Xavier was beside him kicking his feet out from under him and bringing the butt of "Brotherhood" down on his chest.

"...You never even had a chance."

Xavier once again took off after Xiedie.

Dami'tu wasn't very particular about who he fought at the moment. But with all the fighting going on, he defiantly wanted in on the action. He was feeling restless. Taking a moment to pick some one Dami'tu advanced on the one wearing the white trench coat. Seifer became aware of Dami'tu coming at him very quickly, and turned to meet the challenge. Seifer watched as Dami'tu approached slowly and deliberately. The entire time the tip of "Blood Sword" scrapped along the ground, carving a deep jagged gash in the floor.

"Do you think that you are scaring me? I'm not afraid of you! The sword is doing all the work any way!"

"I know you're not scared of me, you're terrified. As for my sword..."

Dami'tu tossed "Blood Sword" end over end and caught it by the handle using nothing but his human arm. He did it a couple of more times for effect.

"...Think what you want."

Dami'tu caught "Blood Sword" by the hilt again and charged Seifer. Seifer was ready for the attack and spun away in an attempt to catch Dami'tu on his demon arm. In a flash though the demon arm came up blocking the swing with the horn on his elbow. Seifer was so surprised by the block that he almost missed the hand holding the massive great sword coming at him. Seifer quickly dodged out-of-the-way.

"I'll admit, I have underestimated you Dami'tu. That ends now." Seifer said taking a moment to completely look at Dami'tu.

He noticed that Dami'tu was easily seven and half feet tall with a solid build. Though he moved with the speed and grace of some one smaller than him self. He had thought that Dami'tu's demon left arm would be stronger than his normal looking right arm, but he had been sadly mistaken. The only difference between the two arms was that the demon arm was malformed from the elbow down, and had a horn coming out of its elbow. The only thing not normal about the normal arm was that it had a horn on the shoulder. Seifer also took note of Dami'tu's horns on his head, and his yellow eyes. That last thing he noticed was that Dami'tu had a tail, though he couldn't tell if that tail was dangerous or not. In short though he may be half Demon and half Elvann, Dami'tu was born, built, and trained to be the perfect killer. Seifer knew he needed to gain a very quick advantage.

"You have no idea how much of an understatement that is Seifer Almasy."

Dami'tu charged again. Seifer brought "Hyperion" up to defend.

"Much to slow." Dami'tu said with out emotion as he quickly reached up through Seifer defense with his demon arm and grabbed him by the face.

Still charging forward Dami'tu dragged Seifer's head on the ground as he ran. Finally he threw Seifer up into the air, and using the flat of "Blood Swords" blade like a bat, hit Seifer. Seifer landed on top of "Big" John and "Lil" Jon.

"Tisk, pathetic."

Dami'tu was very disappointed.

Ashlin could only guess at what kind of war had been fought in these lands. These people were lazy, sloppy, uncoordinated, and undisciplined. He honestly felt Terrin and "Z" had taken out the two most disciplined people in these lands. Ashlin's sights set on Zidane. If any one could offer him a challenge he would.

Zidane saw Ashlin coming at him and drew his weapon. With a yell he ran at Ashlin. Ashlin went to sweep Zidane's feet but hit nothing. Zidane flipped high over Ashlin's leg. Ashlin knew the monkey would avoid the sweep, but he hadn't thought he would so easily leave him self as open as he had. With a quick twist Ashlin was up on a hand delivering a powerful kick to Zidane. Zidane went flying back into his throne.

Ashlin didn't even spare Zidane a second glance as his eyes settled on his true target. Sephiroth met Ashlin's glare and pointed "Masamune" right at him. Ashlin reached into his pouch of holding and pulled out his arm gloves.

"Are you ready Kuroaki?"

"I don't see why not Sephiroth, you have tormented me long enough now. I'm done with you."

Sephiroth laughed.

"You're tired of me? Kuroaki your existence itself is more of a sin than mine is."

"Keep telling your self that Sephiroth, someday even I might believe it."

Ava didn't want to feel sorry for Johna, she really didn't. But Johna looked like hell. She had a fat lip, a black eye, and she seemed to be favoring her left side. Ava could tell that some one had beaten Johna really bad. Her left side injuries told her that it had to be some on left-handed. Ava's best guess was that Johna still retained some of her free will, and was tired of fighting. Xiedie must have had "Big" John work her over.

Johna rose into the air and started to chant. Ava closed her eyes and felt the Mana flowing into Johna. Just from the flow Ava could tell what Johna intended to cast. Her chanting was off, her hand seals sloppy. Ava rushed in and slapped Johna across the face to get her to stop casting, because she was going to hurt her self. Quick as a flash Ava lashed out with her staff and took out Johna's legs. Ava cast sleep on Johna.

"Tech" always thought that Black Mages were very intimidating. Than again his examples for Black Mages were Lulu and Ava, both very bitchy women. This Vivi was the exact opposite of intimidating. He could tell from the way Drew was looking at the Blue Mage she was thinking the same thing.

"So what do you make of them?"

Drew looked at the two mages again out of sheer morbid curiosity.

"I think there gay lovers at the very least."

"Tech" nodded his head.

"I really don't want to fight them."

"Me either."

"Tech" and Drew watched as the two very harmless mages continued to look lovingly at each other. "Tech" thought they were going to embrace. When two knives came sailing through the air embedding themselves in Vivi and Queena's heads. With an ear-splitting explosion the knives detonated. "Tech" and Drew looked behind them at Xavier.

"I said if any one reresed those two, I was going to kill them again."

They looked back at the dead Mages and shrugged. It certainty took care of the problem.

Queen Garnet had thought her self abundantly clever when she had hidden behind her throne when the fighting had started. She had thought her self strong when her knights and friends had fallen. She had thought her self brave when the love of her life had died right next to her, and she hadn't made a sound. Now she thought her self sneaky as she moved behind her one time friends and now enemies and started to summon Ark.

Her summoning came up short as a metal disk severed the top half of her staff. She watched as the disk flew through the air and was caught by a Girl she had never seen before. She looked vaguely familiar especially her eyes. She was wearing a pair of faded blue three quarter length jeans, little white flowers randomly appeared on the pants. Her shirt stopped at about her mid riff and showed off her well toned belly. She wore over that a black leather jacket that stopped just bellow her shirt. Her Brunette hair had natural light brown highlights as well as purple high lights. The entire thing was held in place by a purple bandana that had pink stars on it. Over all she had a healthy build not disgustingly skinny, but far from fat. When the girl started to walk towards her is when she finally recognized her.

"Emily Leonhart, you have your father's eyes, and his walk. What brings you to Alexandria?"

Emmy just gave Garnet a level glare.

"I am here because the SeeD Coalition has decided that your current involvement with the rogue sorceress Xiedie, as well as the notorious villain Sephiroth has put the entire coalition in jeopardy."

Garnet gave Emmy a funny look, like she had no clue what the girl had just said.

"Further more the League of Gardens has deemed that your will full involvement with the afore-mentioned criminals here by voids any future help you might receive from Garden."

Garnet was starting to get really irritated with the younger woman's attitude and picked up her husband's daggers. Emmy just smiled and pulled a Taiji style sword from her back. Emmy pointed the Chinese style sword at Garnet. Emmy made sure Drake was looking at her before she spoke again.

"That and I got to make sure that my new boyfriend doesn't get hurt again."

Emmy smiled at Drake as he gave her a funny look.

Garnet took that opportunity to attack. She rushed Emmy as best she could, but Emmy was faster and quickly dodged out-of-the-way slashing Garnet across her forearm causing her to drop the knife.

"I highly suggest your Highness that you give up right now."

Garnet rushed again intending to hit Emmy with her fist. Again Emmy avoided the attack, and this time slashed Garnet across the back of the legs dropping her to her knees. Not wanting to deal with her any more Emmy walked up behind Garnet and drove the pommel of her sword into the back of Garnets head. She dropped like a ton of bricks, unconscious.

Xavier looked at his team, plus two. For the most part his team wasn't the worst for ware. Hell none of them were hurt even. He looked over at Xiedie and Sephiroth. Both of them were unhurt as well. Xiedie was even smiling.

"You know, you really make me sick. I just want you to know that." Xavier said pacing in front of his team.

They had assembled neatly in a line behind him, shoulder to shoulder in an apparent show of force. They stood there waiting for his orders.

"Oh why is that lover."

"Well that right there is a good example. That and your willingness to sacrifice those who loyally help you."

"You hate Garnet and her companions though."

"You're right I do, but I wouldn't kill them."

"Than what is the problem, Lover?"

Xavier looked away in disgust from Xiedie and his eye just happen to land on Johna. One look at her and he came to the same conclusion as Ava.

"This is the problem right here. I can see the two Johns joining you out of shear want for power. Johna would not have joined you willingly. Neither would have Seifer. And yet here they are at my feet, not much stronger and still easily defeated. Why?"

"If you want them back come and get them than."

Xavier turned his back on her.

"Dami'tu, come here."

Dami'tu came forward to stand before Xavier.

"The Johns are going to be getting to the feet soon. I want you to take care of them."

Xavier reached into his pouch and pulled out a Staff that had been neatly cut in half, and a dirty magazine. He handed both to Dami'tu. Dami'tu gave Xavier a questioning look.

"I don't want you to kill any of them, so after you have had enough fun, or are in total disgust of them, just toss the magazine at the two Johns and the staff at Johna. That should be more than enough to stop them and bring them back to their senses. Mr. Almasy can be dealt with however you see fit. Just don't kill him."

Dami'tu nodded and headed off in the direction of the recovering Johns.

"That guy is really creepy. Ok Drake and Ashlin come here."

They both came forward.

"I want the rest of you to keep Sephiroth busy for me."

"Any thing else, want me to wave my arms and fly while I'm at it?"

"No Drake if you wanted to fly you would just spread your wings and do so. I just need you to keep him away from Xiedie."

"And what are you going to be doing if I might ask?"

"Me Ashlin, I'm going to be taking back what is mine."

Drake and the rest of Team X-treme started to make their way towards Sephiroth.

"Oh and Drake, take care of Emmy. She is counting on you."

Xavier gave Drakes confused look a grin and headed towards Xiedie.

Team John VS. Dami'tu

Dami'tu had kicked over a barrel and sat down on it while he waited for Team John to recover. He watched as one by one they started to stir. Seifer was the first one to his feet, Dami'tu expected this from the fully trained solider. "Lil" Jon was up next followed shortly by "Big" John. Dami'tu shifted his sights down just slightly to see if Johna was even moving.

"What the? Where did every one else go?" "Big" John asked still getting reoriented.

"Apparently either they think Dami'tu is good enough to take on all four of us at once. Or they think we are that bad, that one Dark Knight is all that's needed." "Lil" Jon said picking up his great sword.

Seifer looked at the two Johns like they truly were idiots. Dami'tu caught the look. He had to admit how perceptive the man was even while being controlled. Dami'tu watched as "Big" John walked over to Johna and gave her a vicious kick to the ribs. Johna gave a sharp yelp as she was lifted clear of the ground for a few feet and then rolled a few more. Feebly Johna made her way to her hands and knees when "Big" John violently grabbed her by the hair and hauled her to her feet. Johna screamed in pain as she was hauled to her feet.

"On your feet, you worthless bitch. We got us an ass to kick, before I kick your ass again."

"That is quite enough Jonathan Headstrung!" Dami'tu said from where he was still sitting.

"Big" John looked directly into Dami'tu's deadly glare without flinching. Dami'tu got to his feet and yanked "Blood Sword" from the ground. Team John found themselves looking down the full length of "Blood Sword" as it was pointed at them.

"I am tired and board. Come and entertain me."

"Lil" Jon and Seifer charged Dami'tu while "Big" John took aim. With a wicked sneer and wordless battle cry Dami'tu met the charge. "Big" John let his targets rest between Dami'tu's eyes and pulled the trigger. With blinding speed Dami'tu swung "Blood Sword" in front of himself deflecting the shots harmlessly away from himself.

"Weapon skill - Power Slash!"

With a mighty back-handed swing Dami'tu sent Seifer and "Lil" Jon flying. "Big" John was suddenly faced with the horror that was Dami'tu. And Dami'tu was coming for "Big" John.

Team X-treme VS. Sephiroth

"Keep him busy for me for a few minutes."

Things were never easy. Keep Sephiroth busy for a few minutes. Drake really had to wonder if Xavier knew what he had asked. One does not just keep a man as bad as Sephiroth busy.

As one Team X-treme surrounded Sephiroth. He just stood there, his "Masamune" casually held out to the side. Lazily Sephiroth turned his head to look at Drake and Ashlin.

"So, he sent you here to keep me occupied while he tries to save his love."

"It would seem that way." Ashlin replied

"You amuse me Kuroaki. You claim to never want to join another military organization, yet you so willing follow the orders of Xavier and Drake like you were still an active member of Solider. What are you really after?"

"Peace..."

"Ha! Peace is for the week. As long as people like you or I, or even Xiedie are around there will never be peace."

"As long as people like us exist there will always be those willing to fight for peace." Drake said.

"Than show me, champions of peace. Show me how you intend to bring peace to a world so full of Sin that I am continuously brought back time, and again."

Sephiroth pointed "Masamune" out in front of him, and brought out behind him for balance. Team X-treme waited in anticipation, nobody wanted to be the first one to make a move on Sephiroth. Sephiroth charged, Team X-treme responded.

Xavier VS. Xiedie

Xavier walked into the dark Anti-chamber he had seen Xiedie prance off into. The room was very dark; he had to wonder if it was meant to lure him into a false sense of security. As he walked into the room he reflected back to what Odin had taught him just before he left, and wonder if it would help him at all.

"My hero has finally come to save me."

Xiedie stepped out from behind a statue. Her steps looked a little pained, and she also had a distinct look of pain in her eyes.

"Is that why you are here, Lover, to save me?"

Xavier rolled his head to crack his neck.

"I have something for you, Lover."

With that Xiedie tossed a bundle at him. Xavier easily caught it. It was the ribbon that he had given Shyri for her 15th birthday. There was something inside of it. Slowly he unrolled the ribbon and was horrified to discover blood on it as it unraveled. All at once he got to the end and was suddenly holding a still warm little fox tail.

"Do you like it? I figured my daughter didn't need it since it was so much shorter than her other four and practically useless. So I did her a favor a cut it off. cauterised the wound too. It should leave a nice scar on her ass, make it less attractive. I just know she would want you to have it."

Xavier wanted to puke he felt so sick. Instead he wrapped the severed half-tale back up in the ribbon and stuffed it in to his pouch of holding. He than took "Brotherhood" and drove it into the ground. He than removed his Belt holding the pouch of holding and hung it over the hilt of "Brotherhood".

"What's the matter, my dear sweet Xavier? No witty come backs, no flippant remarks?"

Xavier decided it was time to test Odin's theory. Xavier reached up and tore his Goggles from his eyes, and saw for the first time just who was in control. Before him stood Shyri as plain as day, but the dark aura that surrounded her was Clearly Xiedie's soul, and behind her was a much darker aura.

"So John was right, and even Xiedie is nothing more than a puppet."

He watched as the black aura shifted as if taken aback at the fact that it could be seen. Xavier decided to push his luck, he knew that Shyri, for as controlled as she was could not harm him except by direct combat.

"I am forced to question whether Xiedie exist at all"

The black aura plunged into Xiedies aura and spoke through Shyri. Shyri's once silky voice was replaced by an innately gruffer one.

"So you can see me. That is impressive. I wonder how?"

Xavier's reflective eyes flashed in the low light.

"It does not matter. Xiedie still exists; it is only her body that has died."

"Oh really when did that happen, cause I could have sworn I have seen her body a couple of times."

"HA! How little you know flesh sack, her real body died almost 4500 years ago. Since than we have jumped from one body to the next."

Xiedies aura draped her self over Shyri's body and caressed it in a way that made Xavier's rage start to bubble.

"I kind of like this body, it is so young, soft, and exquisite."

Xavier was about to surge forth when he noticed a tear escape Shyri's eyes. He knew that her soul was still in there some where, and the way the light reflected off the matiria around her neck and into his magical eyes gave him a pretty good guess as to where it was. Odin's voice came to him than.

"I know what your God power is other than shift gating. Think of it as a kind of push. You know that wonderful trick you have of bringing your weapon to your hand. Well reverse that."

So instead Xavier lifted a hand at Shyri and with his new-found power he forced not only Xiedies aura away from Shyri, but the black one off of her as well. For the Briefest of instances Xavier saw not only the true Xiedie but her puppet master as well, but it was over too quickly and the three were one again.

"That was very cute Lofbrah, and it now begs me to ask the question of what are you?"

This was it; this was the time for action. If he wanted Shyri back this would be the battle to decide it.

"I am the unknown outcome,

I am the random encounter,

I am the missing string of code,

I am the extra chromosome,

I am the unforeseen X-factor,

I am the unanswered question,

I am the process,

And the final answer.

I am Xavier Lofbrah."

Dami'tu VS. Team John

Dami'tu looked at Team John in disgust they weren't even a work out. It might have been different had the black mage been more into the fight, but her injuries were keeping her from her full potential. The other two Johns had a little talent, but since they lacked discipline they would never amount to any thing. Seifer was another matter all together. He was trained, he was talented, and he was experienced. But he was middle-aged, and slow. Every once in a while he would get a shot in. But nothing major. He felt it was time to stop playing around.

Seifer rushed in again. Dami'tu ducked under a swing from "Hyperion", and for the second time that day Seifer found his face in the grasp of Dami'tu's demon hand. Dami'tu lifted Seifer up and slammed him head first into the ground. Seifer didn't move. Dami'tu flipped "Blood Sword" over and drove it into the ground and advanced on the Johns.

"You think that just because you took down Seifer you can take us unarmed."

"Your major talent is down and out." Dami'tu said pointing at Seifer and Johna.

"You think that Johna is our major talent..."

"Yes that is exactly what I am saying Jonathan Headstrung. And to further crush your spirits I could have taken all four of you unarmed."

Dami'tu was done playing. He walked the two still gaping Johns and went right to Johna. Johna tried her best to cringe away from Dami'tu.

"You can not escape me."

Johna froze and if possible got paler. Again she tried to cringe away from Dami'tu, more desperately this time. When she finally realized that she could go no further, she balled her self up as tight as she could and started sobbing. The Johns came to their senses and chose that moment, and charged Dami'tu. Dami'tu didn't even spare them a look; he just cast a stop spell on them.

"I am not here to hurt you child." Dami'tu said placing a gentle hand on her chin to get her to look at him.

"I have something for you."

Dami'tu reached into his pouch of holding and produced an X-potion and cracked it open over her head. She instantly started looking better. He than reached into his pouch holding and produced the neatly cut in half-staff Xavier had given him. He handed it to Johna.

"Xavier wanted you to have this."

Johna looked at it in awe than clutched it to her self and started sobbing again. Dami'tu watched as a small stream of dark Myst left her body, again looking a little better. Dami'tu stood and turned to the other Johns. With a heavy sigh and a glare Dami'tu snapped his fingers and they unfroze.

"I am done playing with you boys. You will disarm now or so help me I'm going to slap you silly with this Magazine that Xavier gave me."

Dami'tu pulled the Magazine out of his pouch and it fell open showing its contents. Dami'tu's eye flew wide open. He couldn't believe what he was seeing, and had to question not only how the pictures were taken but how the hell this magazine got them. He turned a few more pages and his eyes got bigger. He was in shock, wonder, and disgust all at the same time. Shaking his head he just walked up to the two Johns and gave them the magazine.

The two of them looked at Dami'tu as he walked away, than looked to the Magazine. Their reaction was the same and instantaneous.

"Oh! My! God!"

"No way, is that..."

"Yes, yes that is."

"Is she shaven?"

They continued on like that. Dami'tu walked back over by Johna and leaned up against the wall by her.

"Are you going to be alright kid?"

"I'll live."

Dami'tu looked down, way down at Johna. Johna returned the look having to look way up.

"Don't beat your self up. It wasn't your fault."

"I would like to believe you, Dami'tu I really would, but I gave in so easily."

Dami'tu gently rested his human hand on Johna's shoulder. Johna looked up again into the smiling face of Dami'tu. It was an unsettling sight.

"At least you were able to resist her. She forced me into a "Blood Rage" and took me than. Blood Raging is more potent than any drug high you could ever possibly imagine. Your mind is completely single focused and apparently very susceptible to influence. I never had a chance and didn't even put up a single ounce of resistance or struggle. You are a very strong girl Johna. I can only imagine how hard and how much you've struggled."

Johna broke into an honest to goodness smile and patted Dami'tu's hand.

"Thank you Dami'tu, I needed that. So um, what are they looking at in that magazine?"

"You don't want to know."

"That good?"

"I'll put it to you this way. If "Z", Ava, or Drew got a hold of that Magazine those two, Xavier, and Drake would more than likely get killed."

"Oh wow, that good."

"Yeah..."

"You might want to, you know, knock them out or something before Xavier and Drake get killed."

"Yeah" Dami'tu said pushing himself away from the wall.

Dami'tu walked up to the Johns while they were still drooling over the Magazine. Before either knew what was going on Dami'tu smacked their heads together.

"You didn't kill them right?"

"No they'll be fine."

"I'd destroy that Magazine while you're at it."

Dami'tu retrieved the Magazine and cast a fire spell on it.

"Yeah, those two have enough problems right now."

Team X-treme VS. Sephiroth

The wall exploded as Terrin went sailing through it. He hit the ground hard, but still managed to roll to his feet.

"So this is the One-winged Angel, Sephiroth, the fallen hero of Midgar."

Terrin found he had been tossed out on to the balcony leading up to the giant crystal sword of Alexandria castle. Any other time it would have been an impressive sight. Terrin was brought back to his senses by some one yelling. Terrins arm shot up just in time to catch "Z" by the waist.

"Let me go so I can kick his re re reincarnated ass."

"You need to settle down "Z", there will plenty of him left for all."

"Z" responded by elbowing Terrin in the nose. It was enough to snap his head back, but not let her go. Terrin grasped her waist in both hands and turned her around to look at him. ´just looked at Terrin's bloody, more than likely broken nose with an apologetic look on her face.

"Hehe, oops." "Z" said with a nervous giggle.

"Yeah, oops" Terrin said with out emotion.

He than set her down and turned her around. Grabbing "Z" by the seat of the ass and the collar of her hoody Terrin hurled her back through the hole in the wall.

Sephiroth was having all he could do to block, parry, and other wise dodge team X-treme's attacks. He had thought that getting rid of the giant would help, but it hadn't. It was hard to tell if they had just gotten a lot better, or if they were just getting that lucky. It didn't help that the new girl was just as big of a pain in the ass as the rest of them or more. She was a master of every weapon she got into her hands, and had proven more than once that she didn't need her weapons to inflict damage. With all his might Sephiroth swung "Masamune" leveling the playing field and sending "Z" through the hole the giant had left upon his exit.

"You disappoint me. All of you combined are still no match for me. I doubt that even Xavier would a difference."

Ashlin got to a shaky knee.

"You aren't exactly being the all-powerful one today Seppie. Or haven't you noticed your own blood on our weapons."

"A Solider, a REAL Solider does not feel pain."

By this time every one was back on their feet.

"Solider, Shmolider. We're SeeDs! And more than that we're a family. A family that is kicking your re-ressed ass!" Drake said once again getting into his fighting stance.

"On your knees, I want you to beg me to kill you for your Sins." Sephiroth said with a sneer.

"Z" realized Terrin's throw had sent her on a collision course with Sephiroth almost immediately. With cat-like reflexes and agility "Z" turned around in mid-flight and blind sided Sephiroth with a heel kick to the head. Using her continued momentum she pushed off Sephiroths snapped back head and flipped over to deliver a bird step kick to his very exposed forehead. Still in flight and motion she continued to use her momentum and flipped over again. This time as she went over she behind Sephiroth and grabbed his chin with both hands. Using the fullest extent of her own momentum, and his, she planted her feet into his back and monkey flipped him into the air.

"Tech" was the first one to react to the wide open opening that "Z" had created.

"Finishing technique - Raising Dragon Wave!"

Punch after punch, kick after kick found there marks as "Tech" and Sephiroth continued to rise into the air.

"Limit Break - Dragon Kick!"

Sephiroth went flying towards the hole in the wall.

"Limit Break - Mana Meltdown!"

Ava didn't bother with the low-level spells, she knew they wouldn't affect some one the likes of Sephiroth. So she just did her high level spells, twice, and for an added bonus Ava unleashed her arcane spell "Dark" on him. Like a rocket Sephiroth went sailing through the hole. Sephiroths flight was cut short by Terrin though.

"Limit Break - Celestial Strike!"

Sephiroth went down. But as Team X-treme gathered outside Sephiroth got back to his feet. And it was his turn to do the surprising.

"SIN HARVEST!"

Team X-treme went down to their knees. Well most of them any way. In his rush to beat them he had not waited for "Clip" or Drew to step out of the hole.

"Limit Break - Gun Bunny." Drew said her voice heavy with sorrow.

The ring of guns materialized around her as Drew went in to her deadly gun Katas.

"Clip" strode in among his friends and pulled the massive .50 cal. "Deliverance" hand cannon from its holster. With a heavy sigh of his own he opened the gun and removed the energy cell, and in its place put in an old school cylinder. "Clip" than took out one shell that had a back and a white crucifix on it. Giving it a kiss "Clip" chambered the shell and snapped the gun close. He than took aim at Sephiroth and waited. As Drew spun away to get a clear shot, and wait for the energy build of the "RYNO" rail shot "Clip" fired.

"Limit Break - Heaven and Hell, Retribution and Deliverance!"

The hammer fell on the gun and for a second nothing happened. Than with a sharp impact to the air and an ear splitting explosion the gun went off. Sephiroth was hit by a black mass and a white mass at the same time. Only "Clip" new exactly what had happened, but as the black mass threw Sephiroth back, the white mass had collected health from him and was now distributing it in the immediate vicinity of "Clip". Every one got back on their feet, and "Clip" ejected the shell from the revolver. It arched through the air and landed straight up and down. At that moment Drew's "RYNO" shot went off Driving Sephiroth further back.

Now that Sephiroth was on the ropes no one else wasted any time. Drake was instantly air born.

"Dragoon of the first order Limit Break - Steal Rain!"

Hundreds of thousands of wraith spears hit Sephiroth at terminal velocity.

Not to be out done Ava rushed forward and as she did her legs and feet were a flame in pain. Again with out exactly knowing how she cast an arcane spell on Sephiroth.

"Earthquake!"

Ashlin dropped down and sheathed "Kuroaki" For the briefest of moments Ashlin's and Sephiroth's murderous glares met.

"SIN HARVEST!"

Sephiroth didn't just drop to a knee all but defeated; he was hurled through the air, clear of the castle. Team X-treme watched as he was swallowed mid-flight by Dark Myst.

Xavier VS. Xiedie

Xavier and Xiedie walked in circles around each other.

Weighing.

Measuring.

Testing each others waters. Waiting to see each other would do. He would not attack her, and she used that to her advantage.

"What do you plan to do, intend to do Xavier?"

"You know exactly what I intend to do."

"Than why don't you do it?"

"Why don't you attack me? Smote me with your power, make me twist in the wind like all your enemies."

"You would like that wouldn't you my sweet?"

"I would like to see you try."

"Oh would you now." She said with a little playfulness in her voice.

"Yes."

There was no playfulness in his voice. No sadness, no anger, no hate. Nothing. Even his gaze was dead pan and with out emotion.

"I am tired of your games, your hemming and hawing. This endless parade of one elegant charade after another. I want this to end. You can have your little war; I'll give it to you. I'll give you a body count like no other. But I am tired of your games. If were going to fight, than lets fight. Take your anger out on me. Let me feel this divine wrath of yours. You're magic that I am to so fear..."

"You should fear it! You should fear me too you insolent prick! You're tired of my games! Who is that has promised me that he was going to bathe in my blood before this is over! And now you stand there and refuse to make the first move!"

"Yes."

"Did your father teach you that?"

"I did not know my father till recently."

"You're not missing much."

"I am still waiting for you to attack."

"And you're going to wait longer."

"Hey if you don't think you can beat me, than get the hell outta that body and into a body you think you can beat me in."

Xavier just watched as Shyri's face turned eleven shades of red and then purple as Xiedie spat and sputtered in pure rage and frustration. A small smile crept onto his face.

"What's wrong, Babe, did I push a few too many of the wrong buttons. Huh Toots?"

Xiedie stopped her tirade and glared at Xavier. With out warning and with a primal scream Xiedie unleashed the full brunt of her magical power upon Xavier. A massive tidal wave of flame surged forth intent on turning Xavier into a pile of ash. With sick glee Xiedie watched the tidal flame engulf Xavier. She thought for a full minute that Xavier had been instantly incinerated. Until the flames evaporated with a wave of his hand.

He was perfectly unharmed. Not a hair singed, his clothes weren't even smoldering. Xavier leveled an even look at her and than cracked a very roguish grin.

"Wanna try again, Snuggle Bunny?"

Xavier actually thought that Xiedie was going to blow Shyri's voice with her scream. Thinking that fire wasn't the key Xiedie hit Xavier with a blizzard that would put the arctic to shame. As with the flames, all the ice and snow went away with a wave of Xavier's hand. Xiedie couldn't believe what she was seeing. Not a flake, not one ice sickle, not even party nipples.

"No hot, no cold, what's next, Honey Bunches, might I suggest something none elemental."

Xiedie's hand shot into the air and a massive green ball formed in her palm. Xavier nodded his head.

"Ah, Ultima, that's a good one. Alright lay it on me, Baby!"

"You want it, Lover, here it comes."

Xiedie hurled the Ultima spell at Xavier.

"I want you to keep your eyes on this, Sweet Cheeks; it'll knock Shyri's socks off." Xavier said throwing his arms wide.

Xiedie was temporarily confused by the comment since she wasn't even wearing shoes. Than it hit her that the fur on her daughters hands and feet was referred to as boots, gloves, or socks. Than she saw it. The spell went right through him.

"What the hell is going on Lofbrah? Why aren't my spells affecting you?"

"It is not just me. You could cast your magic on any body on Gaia and would not affect them. As long as you're in her body."

"What, why?"

"Because out side of her white and red magic's, the rest of her magic is illusion based."

Her jaw damn near hit the ground. Xavier laughed out loud.

"Oh you didn't know? Cupcake because of her kitsune half she is an illusionist. She has less than zero black magic abilities."

Xiedie was seeing red.

"You fucking prick, you know that was going to happen."

"Yeah..."

Xavier wasn't shocked at all when Xiedie came flying at him trying to punch him. He had waited for it, provoking it even. Xavier caught the punch and pulled her close, holding her like they were about to waltz.

"I've been waiting for you to do that all night. I knew your magic wouldn't work against me. Now you're going to have to rely on that bodies physical abilities and your own knowledge of melee combat to defeat me. No John Onikage, no Sephiroth, just the two of us."

With that Xavier spun around and shoulder tossed Xiedie to the ground. Xiedie landed hard, but spun and swept Xavier's legs out from underneath him. Xavier hit the ground hard. As he was sitting up Xiedie lashed out and kicked him square in the face. Xiedie rolled to her feet as Xavier nipped to his.

"Nice you can use her speed, but seriously, you hit like a girl. I hope you intend to do a lot better here really quick, or we are going to be done."

Xiedie rushed in to kick Xavier in the junk. Xavier caught her foot and tossed her using it. Xiedie went with the throw and tried to kick Xavier on her way over. Xavier easily blocked the attempted kick and let her sail over. Xiedie rushed in with a flurry of palm strikes and punches. Xavier easily avoided and evaded each one of them. She continued her relentless assault upon Xavier getting more and more agitated with every strike he managed to not get hit by. With out warning Xavier reached out and scooped her up like he was about to carry her off to bed. His roguish grin caused her to pause and drop her defenses. With out warning Xavier spun her around and side-walk slammed her to the ground.

"You bastard, that hurt." Xiedie said rolling to her feet.

Xavier stayed on the ground in a kicked back way.

"Well yeah, that's the point. Were fighting, Hot Stuff, it's going to hurt."

Xiedie reached behind her back and produced Shyri's gun blades. Heaving a sigh Xavier once again nipped to his feet. It appeared that Xiedie was finally done playing. So was he, and he was also ready to see if he was right about the piece of Matiria that was around her neck.

Xiedie once again rushed Xavier swinging the gun blades about wildly like some first year SeeD candidate. He still steered clear of the ultra keen blades. They would still kill him if she cut him. During one of her wild swings Xavier made a grab for the matiria. Xiedie managed to just dance out-of-the-way and cut him across the belly.

"Looks like I got first blood, Lover."

"Only one of us is trying to draw blood."

Xiedie must have thought she had gained some upper hand, cause she charged straight ahead again, swinging wildly once again. Again Xavier dodged away easily. This time one of his fingers touched the blood-red ball at Shyri's throat. His head was instantaneously filled with the images and memories of Xiedie and Sephiroth beating and torturing her. Trying desperately to get her to relinquish her free will. He saw it all, and it broke his heart.

Xavier's breath left his lungs as Shyri's gun blades went through them. He came to his senses and looked down into the manic expression that was plastered onto Shyri's face by Xiedie. However Xavier noticed something else, tears were falling from Shyri's eyes. Xavier's legs gave out and he fell to his knees. Xiedie went down with him and drove the blades in deeper. Xavier's fingers touched the matiria again. This time he saw Xiedie strap the choker around Shyri's neck. He saw the matiria spike touch her skin. He watched as Xiedie cinched the choker shut and the spike enter her throat. He watched her life blood fill the ball. He watched as she went limp and Xiedie entered her body. Xavier knew where Shyri was, and he knew now how to save her.

"Do you feel it, Lover, that is your life ending. Do you have any thing to say before I gut you further?"

Xavier's head fell forward and rested on the shoulder of Shyri's body. Gingerly Xavier placed a hand on the small of her back. Slowly he turned his head to whisper in to her ear.

"I will save you."

Xavier's hand behind her back kept her from escaping as his other hand shot to her neck.

"My love."

Before she could even think to react Xavier released his power. He watched from the crook of her neck as the two dark auras were forced from Shyri's body. With a second release of his power the life blood in the matiria was forced back into her body. Xavier watched as the two auras went screaming away into the night. With a sharp intake of breath Xavier knew that Shyri's soul had returned to her body. Xavier felt Shyri slump against him and her head rest on his right shoulder right on the scar that she had given him so many years ago. Xavier was feeling very faint, he had lost a lot of blood, but he would be damned if he was going to pass out before he knew that she was at least ok. Her head turned to look at him, she looked very tired.

"I heard you calling to me."

"What else was I to do?"

"You saved me."

"I had to; my life is meaningless without you."

Xavier turned his head and coughed up blood.

"Oh my God Xavier you're bleeding."

"I'll be fine."

"Oh my God."

Xavier looked into Shyri's eyes as they got as big as soft balls.

"No get out of my head."

Xavier was in a panic.

"Shyri, what is it. Tell me so I can help you."

Shyri fell to the ground grasping her head.

"No stay out. NO!"

Her eyes rolled to the back of her head as she passed out.

"Shyri?"

"Shyri?!"

"SHYRI!!!"

Shyri didn't respond, she didn't move.

"No no no no no NOOOOOO!"

He was about to die. How ever he refused to be this close again and lose her again. Centering all of his remaining energies and powers Xavier went forehead to forehead with Shyri. With out a second's hesitation Xavier dove head first, deep in to the depths of Shyri's subconscious.

Xavier and Shyri laid head to head unconscious, and dieing.