RufusSafer: The snow was falling about the old field that in the spring and fall was filled with such beautiful flowers outside that old cottage, home to so many warm memories
FreedoniasatWar: The team came to the house one by one to see their matron and her husband, bringing in gifts and treats. It had only been three years, but some of them were already married or expecting children of their own
RufusSafer: Except for the former knight.. who had been invited despite what had happend a few years back. his arms held gifts for Matron, and a few others, but he was not with anyone... he was alone.
FreedoniasatWar: But soon the final one arrived. It was Irvine. He was dressed much warmer than normal, but he had on his ever-present cowboy hat. He smiled to all his old friends, but he too was alone.
RufusSafer: Seifer set the gifts down under the tree and went straight for the liquir cabinite.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine set his gifts down and talked to his friends.
RufusSafer: Zell hugged him and started talking fast about stuff that really didn't make sense
FreedoniasatWar: And Selphie was chatting also about her engagement to Nida.
RufusSafer: Seifer was the only person not talking, he was sitting by himself on the couch drinking from a bottle of what looked like scotch... looking quite grumpy
FreedoniasatWar: Squall didn't bother to look over at his former rival. He spent his time being with Quistis. He had gotten so much better since he dumped Rinoa.
RufusSafer: Rinoa had shown up too though, calling them her friends still
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine had to get away from her, so he went to talk to Seifer.
RufusSafer: Seifer didn't even look up as Irvine joined him on the couch, he just kept drinking.
FreedoniasatWar: "Hey Seif.. Merry Christmas."
RufusSafer: "what's merry about it? It's 3 days after my birthday..."
FreedoniasatWar: "Did you get my cards?"
RufusSafer: "Yea...." Seifer grunted again, taking sip from his bottle. "thanks..."
FreedoniasatWar: "you're welcome" He smiled.
RufusSafer: "why'd ya bother to send me a card?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Because I still think of you as a friend?"
RufusSafer: "Well...." Seifer turned away. "At least you didn't wind up fighting me those times..."
FreedoniasatWar: "hmm...? why is that?"
RufusSafer: "Fate I suppose... why? You belive there is a reason?"
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine shrugged, "I guess not."
RufusSafer: "Why are you all alone here?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Selphie and I broke up, but we're still friends... I haven't really had much time to date."
RufusSafer: "why not?"
"I'm a mercenary.. it felt like a calling to me"
RufusSafer: "I see.... care to tell me why?"
FreedoniasatWar: "one night it just came to me... like, why am I wasting my best years in a school?"
RufusSafer: "To learn.. it isn't waisted."
FreedoniasatWar: "I learned all I could though Seif."
RufusSafer: "Ah..." He drank down the last of his bottle.
FreedoniasatWar: "I was once told my dad was a mercenary as well as a soldier."
RufusSafer: "Then you know who your parents are?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I wish I knew them..."
RufusSafer: "then why did you mention your father? who told you that?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Matron did... years ago."
RufusSafer: "Oh.. I see..."
FreedoniasatWar: "I wish I knew them though"
RufusSafer: "What do you know of your real parents?"
FreedoniasatWar: "that's all I know about my father... my mother... was from Esthar.. and that's all I know"
RufusSafer: "Oh.. I see..." Seifer turned his head away, studying his empty bottle.
Irvine stared at the bottle too, knowing the truth.
RufusSafer: "At least you heard about your famil;y.. everyone else has to wonder even more.. cept Squall of course cause his dad just left em here..."
FreedoniasatWar: "Yeah... got any more of that?" Irvine asked.
RufusSafer: "Nope.. empty bottle.. why?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I could use a drink"
RufusSafer: "How come?"
FreedoniasatWar: "no reason.." He smiled weakly.
RufusSafer: "Oh come on.. you can tell me..."
FreedoniasatWar: "Seif... you know when my birthday was.... right?"
RufusSafer: "Yea... a few months ago right?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Last month.... I turned 20.. and I got a note that was said to have been attached to my blanket when I arrived here..."
RufusSafer: "From your parents?"
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine nodded, "my mother was Adel..."
RufusSafer: "The sorceress Adel?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Yes.... my father wrote to me telling me that he was about to die when he wrote it..."
RufusSafer: "that's... sad.."
FreedoniasatWar: "that's not all of it... My father was a Guardian Force..."
RufusSafer: "I see...."
FreedoniasatWar: "It's why all the GFs insisted on protecting me"
RufusSafer: "that does make sense. Quite an interesting story." Seifer rose from his seat. "I'm gonna go check on dinner."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine followed him and sat down while the others sat and chatted away
RufusSafer: Seifer seemed to be avoiding everyone.. staring out the window at the slowly falling snow
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine waited for his food in silence, not his usual chatty self.
RufusSafer: Edea set the food on the table, which Zell tried to take a lot of before anyone else got to it
FreedoniasatWar: The library girl tried to correct him for it.
RufusSafer: "Hey hey hye!" Zell complained. "I'm a growing boy! I gotta eat!"
RufusSafer: "Yea.. growing out.." Seifer snickered.
FreedoniasatWar: Selphie giggled as Zell pouted.
Irvine sat in deep thought about his father..
RufusSafer: Who was his father? Which GF? Where was he now?
FreedoniasatWar: People always told him he looked exotic... almost too beautiful to be human.
RufusSafer: And his aim was.. perfect.... no human could truely be that good
FreedoniasatWar: the GFs went out of their way to protect him.
RufusSafer: Because one of them out there somewhere was his father
FreedoniasatWar: He wanted to find him...
RufusSafer: To learn who he was. All he knew was that he was in Esthar back during the sorceresss war
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine ate slowly. Who was he?
RufusSafer: Maybe he'd have to travel to Esthar to find out
FreedoniasatWar: after dinner he'd go back to his place and pack up.
RufusSafer: But first was the gifts
FreedoniasatWar: He went with the others to unwrap them.
RufusSafer: That's when he saw a pakage deap under the tree to him... saying it was from his father. To Irvine from Dad...
FreedoniasatWar: "(dad?!)" Irvine took the present and opened it.
RufusSafer: Inside, wrapped in what was clearly phoenix down.. which had become very rare lately and so therefore very expensive, was a beautiful necklace. It was lightweight and fit around his neck and held his name and birthdate on it.
RufusSafer: "Wow Irvine! Who gave ya that? Must have cost a mint!!" Zell exclaimed.
FreedoniasatWar: "(Phoenix....)" He almost broke down in tears when he saw it. "It's... from my father Zell..." he said as he put it on.
RufusSafer: "Father? Your adopted dad gave ya that?"
FreedoniasatWar: "my.. real father..." Irvine said as he closed the box of phoenix down.
RufusSafer: "wait wait... were you abandoned like Squall or something?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I.. I don't know."
RufusSafer: Zell scratched his head, then Seifer snapped. "Leave him alone Chicken-wus..."
RufusSafer: Zell glared at him and took his own presents over to the couch to open them.
FreedoniasatWar: "(my father was Phoenix....)" Irvine held the box of down close to his chest. He remembered when Squall used a phoenix pinion the being smiled at Irvine and almost seemed to embrace him.. as if they were related.
RufusSafer: But the pinion was an echo, not the true gf
FreedoniasatWar: He wanted to meet the true GF. His father..
RufusSafer: now that he knew who it was.. but not where he was. but, how did he get the gift under teh tree then?
FreedoniasatWar: how did he know he'd be with friends here?
RufusSafer: Those were good questions.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine looked around at his friends.
RufusSafer: Seifer was back to drinking on the couch, Rinoa was smiling at Irvine, Zell was ripping open his gifts and displaying them proudlyu...
FreedoniasatWar: and Squall and Quistis in the corner together while Selphie took pictures. Maybe one of them knew his father?
RufusSafer: or even... was. After all... GFs can take human form and have to start as babies...
FreedoniasatWar: but to think... one of his friends as his father
RufusSafer: It was hard to belive.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine asked Matron first, "My father... he was Phoenix.."
RufusSafer: Edea looked around to make sure they were alone before pulling Irvine off to another room. "You know this?"
FreedoniasatWar: "look at what he gave me..." he showed her the box of down and the lovely necklace.
RufusSafer: "It's beautiful. He must care a lot about you."
FreedoniasatWar: "but how did he know I'd be here?"
RufusSafer: Edea sat down.
RufusSafer: "He knew you'd of gotten his letter that he wrote you 20 years ago. it was left with you when you were shipped her."
FreedoniasatWar: "but if this is his down... does that mean he's dead?"
RufusSafer: "Of course not. He sheds it all the time the phoenix does... it's been rare lately because he stays in his human form I suppose."
FreedoniasatWar: "H... human..."
RufusSafer: "Yes. Most don't relize GFs can take human form."
FreedoniasatWar: "I wonder if I take after him..."
RufusSafer: "I do not know."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine sighed and held the box
RufusSafer: "why not put it on?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I put the necklace on..."
RufusSafer: Edea lauged and pulled back Irvine's collar to see it. "Nice."
FreedoniasatWar: "it feels so soft and light... and I'm not really into chokers.."
RufusSafer: "he must know that."
FreedoniasatWar: "but this one... I love it.."
RufusSafer: She smiled. "Very good."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine took a feather from the box, "it's like spun gold.."
RufusSafer: "He must love you very much."
FreedoniasatWar: "I wish I knew him..." he sniffled.
RufusSafer: "You will I'm sure."
FreedoniasatWar: he turned to look at his friends.
RufusSafer: Seifer was nursing a bottle, Rinoa was chatting with Selphie, and Zell was huggling a stuffed chocobo
FreedoniasatWar: at least most of them looked happy.
RufusSafer: Seifer looked morose though
FreedoniasatWar: why was he drinking so much??
RufusSafer: He said he hated the holidays
FreedoniasatWar: but he never really knew why...
RufusSafer: just said he hatwed them
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine went over to him with the box.
RufusSafer: Seifer looked up. "hey.."
FreedoniasatWar: "My father was here..." he said, running his hand through the down.
RufusSafer: "Ah. You were just talking to me about it wern't ya?"
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine nodded, "but I didn't know he left me a gift.."
RufusSafer: "How'd he get in then?
RufusSafer: "
FreedoniasatWar: "I don't know..."
RufusSafer: Seifer shrugged and passed him the bottle. "drink up."

FreedoniasatWar: "thanks..." he was about to take the bottle.
RufusSafer: Seifer got up and stretched. "I'm tired.. I'm gonna go off now..."
FreedoniasatWar: "Please stay..." he said.
RufusSafer: "Why?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I wanted some company..."
RufusSafer: "Why not talk to Zell?"
FreedoniasatWar: "He's too hyper.."
RufusSafer: "Well, I'm tired."
FreedoniasatWar: "but...." he frowned, "I'll miss you.."
RufusSafer: "Thanks.. see ya tomorrow." Seifer headed for his guest room.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine let him go to get some rest, leaving him to ponder about his father.
RufusSafer: Rinoa walked up to Irvine after Seifer left.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine sighed.
RufusSafer: "Hey Irvy."
FreedoniasatWar: "hi Rin..."
RufusSafer: "Can I sit?"
FreedoniasatWar: "it's a free country"
RufusSafer: She sat next to him. "How have you been?"
FreedoniasatWar: "My dad got me a gift..."
RufusSafer: "I heard. What was it?"
FreedoniasatWar: "my necklace..."
RufusSafer: "It's pretty."
FreedoniasatWar: "thank you.."
RufusSafer: "So.. what you and Seifer been talking about?"
FreedoniasatWar: "just stuff.... nothing important."
RufusSafer: "Oh." She frowned.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine sat back down and looked at the bottle.
RufusSafer: It was mostly empty
FreedoniasatWar: He sighed again, "I wish I knew my dad..."
RufusSafer: "Im sure you will some day."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine held the box to him.
RufusSafer: Rinoa gave him a friendly hug.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine hugged back just to please the girl.
RufusSafer: "I'm sure you'll be very happy when you find your dad."
FreedoniasatWar: "Yeah I know..."
RufusSafer: Rinoa stood up and bowed to him slightly. "so cheer up!"
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine smiled a bit.
RufusSafer: Rinoa smiled back and walked off.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine went back to looking at the box.
RufusSafer: The down was still in there
FreedoniasatWar: He sniffed a feather. it felt so familiar to him.
RufusSafer: It was clearly his father's... and such a sweet scent
FreedoniasatWar: he smiled a bit, wanting to remember his youth
RufusSafer: when he was a baby.. his mother holding him
FreedoniasatWar: his father looking after him
RufusSafer: too bad he couldn't remember
FreedoniasatWar: He wanted to though
RufusSafer: but he had been a baby then
FreedoniasatWar: Phoenix.... the eternal GF spirit...
RufusSafer: Who rose from his own ashes after death
FreedoniasatWar: what did that mean for him?
RufusSafer: he'd have to wait and see most likely
FreedoniasatWar: He wound up going to bed with the down
RufusSafer: the soft down... his father's tiny feathers that he lost while molting
FreedoniasatWar: it made him feel so warm and loved.
RufusSafer: he could picture the huge flaming bird snuggling him in his wings, gently nudging him with a friendly beak
FreedoniasatWar: the soft, firey down caressing his skin.
RufusSafer: but not hurting him at all... just feeling warm
FreedoniasatWar: the baby cooed in the being's arms
RufusSafer: a soft cooing sound came back from the bird's beak
FreedoniasatWar: the child loved being cuddled by his father
RufusSafer: and from the father issued feelings of love and warmth
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine felt all of that just while sleeping with the down.
RufusSafer: maybe that's why his father had sent it?
FreedoniasatWar: to remind Irvine of being in his arms
RufusSafer: in his wings.. craddled.. and loved.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine slept so well
RufusSafer: so well with those pleasent dreams of his father
FreedoniasatWar: his GF father.
RufusSafer: the great phoenix
FreedoniasatWar: he thought about what he could do since he was half GF..
RufusSafer: Maybe cast magic without junctions
FreedoniasatWar: or other cool stuff.
RufusSafer: He'd have to ask his father abotu that.
FreedoniasatWar: he wanted to... wherever he was.
RufusSafer: He'd know eventually... somehow.

Irvine woke up from his unusual dream.
RufusSafer: About his father.. the beautiful pheonix
FreedoniasatWar: He held the down to his body and sighed. He didn't want the dream to end.
RufusSafer: But saddly the sunlight from outside was hitting his eyes, forcing him to stay awake.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine eventually washed up and got dressed to join the others.
RufusSafer: Seifer was at the breakfast table, reading a book while the others were chatting around him.
FreedoniasatWar: "what's that Seif?" Irvine asked as he sat down
RufusSafer: Seifer slid his green eyes up to him. "Why do you care?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Just.. curious is all... I had a wonderful dream though..."
RufusSafer: "And what sort of dream was that?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I was a baby... and my father was cradling me in his wings... I felt his beak nuzzle me..."
RufusSafer: "Father? Beak? wings?" Seifer raised an eyebrow at him
FreedoniasatWar: "my dad's Phoenix..."
RufusSafer: "Ah.... The GF no one has seen in years."
FreedoniasatWar: "His down is so soft... and warm no matter what."
RufusSafer: "Ah.." Seifer leaned back, opening his book once more.
FreedoniasatWar: "I wish I knew him..."
RufusSafer: "bet you will some day..." Seifer turned from him, trying to read.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine frowned, since he felt he could only talk to Seifer about this.
RufusSafer: Seifer just didn't seem interested in what he had to see.. he was cold and distant, like Squall used to be
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine just moped and ate his breakfast.
RufusSafer: After that Edea waited at the door, wishing everyone a safe trip home. Irvine didn't even see Seifer leave, he just seemed to be gone
FreedoniasatWar: He blinked at that as he went to his car.
RufusSafer: the trip home felt so lonely as he was the only one in his car by that poijnt
FreedoniasatWar: The others all were together and even planning to have families.. but he had no one
RufusSafer: So it was back to being lonely in Balamb.
FreedoniasatWar: he protected the city as a mercenary... at least that was paying his rent.
RufusSafer: When he got home he saw someone out on Balamb peir
FreedoniasatWar: He got his gun out, but approached carefully.
RufusSafer: They were fishing after hours.. a big guy... looked familiur

"Raijin?"
RufusSafer: He looked up from the water. "Hmm? What ya doing here ya know?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I'm patrolling the area... it's after hours and it's kinda dangerous"
RufusSafer: "Not for me it isn't ya know. I can take care of myself."
FreedoniasatWar: "sure ya can... you should finish up. I'll buy you a drink."
RufusSafer: "hey! If you're buying I'm ther ya know." The big man rose, taking his rod up.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine smiled and led him to a nice bar in the city
RufusSafer: Raijin smiled too, he was broke and really wanted a drink
FreedoniasatWar: "so what have you been up to?"
RufusSafer: "Anything you buy me.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine blinked, "Pardon?"
RufusSafer: "You're paying so I can't be a chooser rioght?"
FreedoniasatWar: "True.." he orders two drinks, "so what have you been up to?"
RufusSafer: "Fishing mostly. Been making a little money doing that ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: "I see. How's Fujin?"
RufusSafer: "She's cool. Working as a merc out near Galbadia."
FreedoniasatWar: "This is gonna sound off.. but wanna get together for lunch tomorrow?"
RufusSafer: "You paying for it again?"
FreedoniasatWar: "sure. but next time you owe me.." he smiled.
RufusSafer: "Sure thing ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine finished his drink.
RufusSafer: Raijin sipped his then downed it. "You're really nice."
FreedoniasatWar: "thanks."
RufusSafer: raijin finished his drink and smiled. "I mean that ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine smiled warmly.
RufusSafer: "So, why are you bothering with me? I just wanna know."
FreedoniasatWar: "I dunno.. call it lonliness..."
RufusSafer: "I'm lonely too ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: "I hear ya..."


soon their lunches became routine.. and then dinners.. they were dating, but neither one admitted it.
RufusSafer: Raijin was kinda shy, but that made him rather cute
FreedoniasatWar: One night after the movies Irvine held Raijin's hand. It was still early, but too late for dinner. "Raijin... did you ever know your parents?"
RufusSafer: Raijin shook his head. "nah... I was an orphan.. just like you and Seify and Fuji..."
FreedoniasatWar: "Oh... Raij.. there's something you should know about me."
RufusSafer: "what?"
FreedoniasatWar: "My father.. he was a GF"
RufusSafer: "Really?"
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine nodded, "He was the Phoenix..."
RufusSafer: "The phoenix eh?" Raijin scratched his head.
FreedoniasatWar: "Yeah.. I was afraid of being alone... now that I know about my heritage."
RufusSafer: "why afraid?"
FreedoniasatWar: "afraid of people not accepting me"
RufusSafer: "I accept ya you know."
FreedoniasatWar: "thanks..." He blushed a bit.
RufusSafer: Raijin grinned just a bit.
FreedoniasatWar: Soon a finger was tilting his head up, "Hmmm..?"
RufusSafer: Raijin giggled. "You look nice when you blush like that ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: "I.. I do?"
RufusSafer: "Yep. Very much."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine moved in a bit closer, "didn't think my blush could be seen in this light.."
RufusSafer: "More then just your blush... I've been staring at your eyes lately ya know..."
FreedoniasatWar: "my.. eyes?" Irvine blinked.
RufusSafer: "they are.. stunning."
FreedoniasatWar: "th.. thank you.."
RufusSafer: Raijin smiled at him.
FreedoniasatWar: Soon his lips were touched...
RufusSafer: Raijin kissed him softlu
FreedoniasatWar: He couldn't believe how gentle the taller man was.
RufusSafer: He was large, strong, yet gentle... very gentle.. his lips were soft.. and warm against Irvine's own
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine pulled away slowly, "um... uh... want to go back to my place?'
RufusSafer: "You want me to?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Please..? I don't want to be alone..."
RufusSafer: "I'l;l come then."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine led Raijin to his place. Once the door was locked so was their lips.
RufusSafer: Raijin's large powerful arms pulled gently around Irvine's body, keeping him close.
FreedoniasatWar: "I need it Raijin.. I'm tired of being alone..."
RufusSafer: "I'm tired of being alone too..." Raijin smiled, stroking a finger down Irvine's pale cheek
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine kissed Raijin's palm, "make love to me..."
RufusSafer: "You really want to?" Raijin seeemd a tad surprised.
FreedoniasatWar: 'My body's goin' nuts.. I need you.."
RufusSafer: Raijin smiled again. "As you wish."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine led him to the bedroom
RufusSafer: Raijin followed, eagerly. he really did like Irvine.. maybe even love him

Raijin moaned, rubbing his belly against Irvine's cock.
The friction caused Irvine's nerves to burn with lust. With a powerful moan he coated his lover in his passion.
RufusSafer: Raijin's cock throbbed inside of him, starting to release as well
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine's clenching made him even tighter.
RufusSafer: Raijin shouted out his name as he let loose
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine went limp in his arms, panting softly. "Mmmm..."
RufusSafer: Raijin did the same, drawing in deap breathes
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine's eyes sparkled a bit with tears of both pain and pleasure.
RufusSafer: Raijin held him in his arms, kissing him softly on the lips
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine cuddled into his burly arms.
RufusSafer: "That was.... incredible.. ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: "It was.." Irvine kissed his nose.
RufusSafer: "I'm glad you think so to.
FreedoniasatWar: "sleepy.." he yawned, wanting to slide under the sheets.
RufusSafer: "Then let us sleep." Raijin purred, cuddling to him
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine cuddled back, laying back on the soft pillows, "I could get used to having you around," he joked.
RufusSafer: "You want me to move in?"
FreedoniasatWar: "We'll talk about it over breakfast... I want this moment to last..."
RufusSafer: "Mmm... then let us be quiet ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine smiled and cuddled in more.
RufusSafer: Raijin kissed him and feel to sleep
FreedoniasatWar: as did Irvine, sleeping peacefully.
RufusSafer: in the morning Raijin made breakfast and Irvine found a letter at his door
FreedoniasatWar: He opened it, "Wonder who it could be from?"
RufusSafer: It was from his father
FreedoniasatWar: He read it slowly when he saw that it was indeed from his father.
RufusSafer: His father was telling him to go to Esthar and reclaim the throne. That Laguna was just there to keep the waring factions that had hated Adel from kiklling eachother and wound gladly turn the country over to the rightful ruler. Irvine was the prince and should be crowned king to continue the peace of Esthar.
FreedoniasatWar: "Raijin..." Irvine turned to him.
RufusSafer: It continued on the back.. but Irvine hadn;t noticed it yet. "Yes?" Raijin asked, turning.
FreedoniasatWar: "It's from dad..." Irvine said as he turned it over, noticing more
RufusSafer: It said the one Irvine loved, somehow his dad knew, was like him.. half GF.. but he had never been told since his mother was junctioned and couldn't send word to him
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine blinked and looked at Raijin, "but.. How does dad know...?"
RufusSafer: Raijin scratched his head. "Eh? know what?"
FreedoniasatWar: "you're half-GF too..."
RufusSafer: "I am?"
FreedoniasatWar: "It says dad knew you.. and that your mom was junctioned."
RufusSafer: "I'm confused ya know?" He sat down
FreedoniasatWar: "Same here..." he handed Raijin the letter.
RufusSafer: Raijin hugged him into his arms.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine hugged back
RufusSafer: "I love you."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine's heart jumped, "you... you love me?"
RufusSafer: "yes. I love you."
FreedoniasatWar: A smile graced his face, "Oh Raijin... I love you too!" He snuggled into him.
RufusSafer: "I'm happy. so, what we gotta do ya knwo?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Want to move to Esthar?"
RufusSafer: "Sure."
FreedoniasatWar: He grinned.
RufusSafer: Raijin smiled, getting up. "Let's eat."
FreedoniasatWar: "Yeah," Irvine went to the table, wondering how his father knew Raijin too.
RufusSafer: Perhaps GFs knew of others?
FreedoniasatWar: or maybe they were friends at one time
RufusSafer: he'd knoew more in Esthar
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine had everything boxed up and shipped to Esthar after he spoke with Laguna
RufusSafer: Laguna confirmed what the letter had said.. that several groups that had got him to overthrow Adel back then had him lead since they'd kill eachother over Esthar
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine thanked him for doing his job and had him and his friends and administrators secretly leave the country
RufusSafer: Laguna smiled, glad the prince had reatured.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine blushed when Laguna called him a prince.
RufusSafer: "Wow.. didn't know ya was a prince."
FreedoniasatWar: "I guess I am..."
RufusSafer: Raijin kissed him.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine kissed back.
RufusSafer: "what shall we do now?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I guess we take over and figure out what to do."
RufusSafer: Raijin nodded. "I'll protect ya you know."
FreedoniasatWar: "thank you..."
RufusSafer: Raijin smiled. "I want to be with you always."
FreedoniasatWar: "You're so good to me Raijin..." Irvine went to become officially crowned. The ceremony had to be done quietly, but they still adorned Irvine in the exotic finery of the country and quite a bit of silver makeup.
RufusSafer: Raijin paced outside the door as an old handmaiden went into Irvine's dressing room to help him
FreedoniasatWar: Once Irvine came out.. he didn't look like Irvine anymore...
RufusSafer: Raijin still knew it was him though and dropped his jaw
FreedoniasatWar: Silver, white, platinum... he was dressed in all those colors.
RufusSafer: "Irvy?"
FreedoniasatWar: "this thing itches Raiji..." he said.
RufusSafer: "Have to wear it long?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I hope not.." he said, wanting to wipe all of that makeup off.
RufusSafer: The hand maid smiled at him as Raijin was showed off to another spot.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine mouthed "I love you" to Raijin before being led away
RufusSafer: "You look a lot like your mother." The old woman chirped. "But you have your father's eyes."
FreedoniasatWar: "My father..." he repeated.
RufusSafer: "Yes. I remember him well. He was your mother's Knight. The only one close to her."
FreedoniasatWar: "when did mother go insane... and why?"
RufusSafer: "The power drove her mad... She started to not trust anyone.. anyone but her beloved that is. I really don't know why..."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine frowned at that
RufusSafer: "Funny she trusted him... I remember what he looked like and that he was polite but, I never knew his name. Adel always called him her pet.... kinda funny that way."
FreedoniasatWar: "In a way he was a pet... what did he look like?"
RufusSafer: "Blonde, green eyes like you. Just over six feet tall, strong... that's what I remember."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine blinked at that, "blonde with green eyes?"
RufusSafer: She nodded. "Yes."
FreedoniasatWar: "(It can't be...)"
RufusSafer: Thinking back... He had never once struck at Irvine even if they wound up on oppisit sides.
FreedoniasatWar: But how was it possible? Was Seifer.. Phoenix?
RufusSafer: Seifer used magic... without junctions... his limit breaks.. were fire.
FreedoniasatWar: and he always rose from his wounds.
RufusSafer: No mater how bad they were... he had dragged himself back into the frey. it took a lot to kill a gf in human form.. then there was that inceident with Odien...
FreedoniasatWar: But Seifer was only a teenager...
RufusSafer: 21 auctally.. but he had known him since he was a little kid... they had been in the orphanage together.
FreedoniasatWar: they grew up together.
RufusSafer: But.. the first note he got.. it had said something of that nature... that his human body was about to die... maybe GFs once their human bodies died could get a new one that started as a baby again...
FreedoniasatWar: but Seifer was so young.
RufusSafer: He'd have to hear it from him
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine had alot on his mind...
RufusSafer: And now was not the time.. he was being crowned king of Esthar
FreedoniasatWar: His heart was beating so fast... he saw the small crowd waiting for their new king.
RufusSafer: They all seemed so happy, clapping and cheering, shouting long live the son of Queen Adel!
FreedoniasatWar: They crowned him with an intricate headpiece.
RufusSafer: The crowd went wild, all calling his name.
FreedoniasatWar: King Irvine!
RufusSafer: Raijin was close by, giving him the thumbs up.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine smiled at him
RufusSafer: As soon as Irvine was allowed to leave Raijin rejoined him. "Hey love."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine hugged him tight, "it wasn't as long as I expected."
RufusSafer: "You seemed distracted."
FreedoniasatWar: "The maiden knew my father... but it's impossible.."
RufusSafer: "Really? She knew em?"
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine nodded, "It was Seifer"
RufusSafer: Raijin practicly jumped back. "You're kidding
?!"
FreedoniasatWar: "I'm not. He's my father.. and he's Phoenix.."
RufusSafer: Raijin sat down heavily. "that's a.. little hard to swallow ya know... but..." he frowned slightly. "Kinda makes sense in a way."
FreedoniasatWar: "Really?"
RufusSafer: "Well... one day I watched Seifer walking off into some woods.. and soon after when I followed I saw this huge bird... thought I was seeing things ya know cause I thought when I saw it that it was the legandary phoenix..."
FreedoniasatWar: "Oh.... then maybe he is.. wow.... Seifer's my dad"
RufusSafer: "Man... And he was my best friend for years ya know..."
FreedoniasatWar: "and you didn't really know..."
RufusSafer: "Not at all." Raijin shook his head.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine was at a loss for words.
RufusSafer: Raijin put his arms around him, rather confused himself.
FreedoniasatWar: "The son of phoenix..."
RufusSafer: "You are."
FreedoniasatWar: He felt the necklace, remembering the down.
RufusSafer: Seifer must have put it on the pile of gifts
FreedoniasatWar: "He was at the party... but he seemed like he didn't want to talk"
RufusSafer: "How come?"
FreedoniasatWar: "He just kept drinking.."
RufusSafer: "That's what I usally see him do ya know,"
FreedoniasatWar: "But why though?"
RufusSafer: "I dunno.. maybe ya should ask him?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I think we should."
RufusSafer: "Hmmm.. I'm not sure where he is though."
FreedoniasatWar: "Maybe a bar?"
RufusSafer: "Yea.. think he's in town?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Knowing him, yes."
RufusSafer: "Then let's go find him ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine nodded.
RufusSafer: Raijin walked outside the palace with him.
FreedoniasatWar: the pair searched every bar they could.
RufusSafer: Until finnaly... they found him.
FreedoniasatWar: they had spotted him in a local tavern
RufusSafer: he was sitting in the back of the bar, drinking.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine and Raijin walked up to him
RufusSafer: "Hello." Seifer greated, without turning as he sipped his drink
FreedoniasatWar: "Hi Dad..." Irvine smiled.
RufusSafer: Seifer cocked an eyebrow... then chuckled softly. He sipped his drink. "Met your old nursemaid did you?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I did..."
RufusSafer: "So I see.. and claimed your birthright of your mother>?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Yeah.... I'm a king now..."
RufusSafer: "Very good." Seifer nodded. "Your mother would have liked that"
FreedoniasatWar: "I will rule in peace..."
RufusSafer: "Good boy.... your mother wasn't always so evil.. but her power corrupted her."
FreedoniasatWar: "Will mine do the same thing Dad..?"
RufusSafer: "Of course not... She was a sorceress."
FreedoniasatWar: "Oh..." Irvine sat down, "I am seeing someone.."
RufusSafer: "I know.
RufusSafer: "
FreedoniasatWar: "He's been kind to me..."
RufusSafer: "I know... I've been watching."
FreedoniasatWar: "you.. have?"
RufusSafer: "of course."
FreedoniasatWar: "Irvine blushed slightly, "Hopefully you didn't see us.. you know..."
RufusSafer: Seifer grinned as he turned to look at them. "Wouldn't say."
FreedoniasatWar: "I... see..."
RufusSafer: Seifer stood up, streatching a bit. "Home it is then?"
FreedoniasatWar: "yeah..."
RufusSafer: "Good." He placed money on the bar and left with them
FreedoniasatWar: they took Seifer back to the palace.
RufusSafer: Seifer smiled as he entered. "It's been a while."
FreedoniasatWar: "Laguna left everything intact..."
RufusSafer: "Yes, I see that."
FreedoniasatWar: "He was willing to give the throne back. He wanted to retire... so they let me have my ceremony in peace"
RufusSafer: "I knew that's what would happen."
FreedoniasatWar: "So Raijin moved in... and now I'm king."
RufusSafer: "And a good job of it too, what will you do as king?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I will maintain peace."
RufusSafer: "AS long as you do not enforce it.. of course.. it is your choice."
FreedoniasatWar: "I'll do my best not to become a dictator."
RufusSafer: "I'm sure the people will love you."
FreedoniasatWar: "I hope so.."
RufusSafer: Seifer went close and hugged him. "I know so."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine hugged back, remembering the warm down against his skin.
RufusSafer: "I will be.. out back.. in the garden."
FreedoniasatWar: "All right..."
RufusSafer: Seifer winked and walked out.
FreedoniasatWar: that evening Irvine was on the couch in Raijin's arms.
RufusSafer: Raijin held him close. "Can't belive I'm in love with a king who is my best friend's son..."
FreedoniasatWar: "It's hard to believe I know... soon I'm gonna be stressing out running this place.. so I'm gonna need alot of cuddles."
RufusSafer: "I'll be here for ya, night and day ya know." Raijin kissed him softly, holding the cowboy in his big strong arms
FreedoniasatWar: "Not to mention sex..."
RufusSafer: "Lots of sex." Raijin agreed, big grin on his face
FreedoniasatWar: "You don't object to that, do you?" He smiled back.
RufusSafer: "Not unless you do."
FreedoniasatWar: "Nope..." he chuckled.
RufusSafer: "hey... wonder where Seifer is."
FreedoniasatWar: "He's probably still in the garden"
RufusSafer: "Wanna go see?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Sure."
RufusSafer: Raijin stood up, catchjing a quick kiss of Irvine's lips as he did
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine held Raijin's hand as they went to find Seifer.
RufusSafer: They garden was quite large and beautiful.. with a pond and a waterfall in the center surrounded by trees.
FreedoniasatWar: "Seifer?" Irvine called out
RufusSafer: There was a shrill cry of what seemed like a bird.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine clung to Raijin.
RufusSafer: Raijin blinked. "what was that?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Sounded like.. a huge bird."
RufusSafer: "Phoenix?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Maybe..." Irvine went deeper into the garden.
RufusSafer: Phoenix down was left on the path.. shed there
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine picked up a feather.
RufusSafer: His father... the warmth.. he could fele it
RufusSafer: feel^
FreedoniasatWar: 'He turned into a phoenix.."
RufusSafer: Raijin nodded. "That's cool yah know, let's go to him."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine nodded and followed Raijin
RufusSafer: Towards the waterfall they went.
FreedoniasatWar: "Daddy?" Irvine called again.
RufusSafer: The bird's call greated his ears... and movement by the waterfall.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine saw some feathers near the water.
RufusSafer: There great bird was resting by the waterfall, curled up in its feathers.
FreedoniasatWar: in a huge nest.
RufusSafer: wait.. waiting for them
FreedoniasatWar: "Dad..." Irvine knelt by the huge bird.
RufusSafer: The beak nudged him gently, and the bird made a sound like a purr or something
FreedoniasatWar: "Hi dad... we didn't wake you, did we?" He nuzzled the beak.
RufusSafer: The bird licked him quickly, as if to say no.
FreedoniasatWar: "Making sure..." he ran his hand over his head.
RufusSafer: He kept his head down, urging Irvine onto his head.
RufusSafer: back^
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine climbed onto his back
RufusSafer: The phoenix chirred happily, glad to have his son.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine lay in the feathers.
RufusSafer: They were warm and soft, and convayed a sense of love from his father.
FreedoniasatWar: "I love you Daddy..." He curled up a bit.
RufusSafer: ~I love you too!~
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine smiled when he heard the voice in his mind.
RufusSafer: ~I wish to sleep here a while before living out a human's life...~
FreedoniasatWar: "I understand.. you can stay for as long as you'd like."
RufusSafer: ~You and your love should choose what you both want when you die... weather you want to stay mortal or become full GFs.. if one decides different you will never meet again...~
FreedoniasatWar: "What do you mean?"
RufusSafer: ~You are both half GF... when you die you must let one half go... either your mortal half or your GF half. GFs are immortal... we don't truely die...~
FreedoniasatWar: "but I might not be with Raijin..."
RufusSafer: Seifer snorted. ~You belive your love will not last then? and speak up here~
FreedoniasatWar: ~All right... if we're GFs we can be together...right?~
RufusSafer: ~Yes.... same as if you both go mortal.. ~
FreedoniasatWar: ~I will talk it over with Raijin~
RufusSafer: ~One thing though... if you become a GF.... we are neither good nore evil... we serve both, whoever becomes our master and do their bidding. Our power is for their use. In that sense we are like gennies.. but.. we are immortal, and our love for eachother is undying.~
FreedoniasatWar: ~Still... I don't know if I'd want to live forever.~
RufusSafer: ~I know son.. that is why you must decide long before you die what path you will choose then.~
FreedoniasatWar: ~I understand...~
RufusSafer: ~Good... Anything you choose in life I will be proud of you.. remember that."
RufusSafer: ~
FreedoniasatWar: ~Thanks Dad...~ Irvine nuzzled the feathers.
RufusSafer: Seifer nuzzled him back and settled down to sleep.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine kissed the feathers, "Sweet dreams Dad..". He got up and went to Raijin
RufusSafer: Raijin was waiting by the trees, not wanting to spoil the family momment.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine hugged Raijin tight, "He wants to sleep."
RufusSafer: "That's good ya know,."
FreedoniasatWar: "Maybe we should.. sleep also" He winked.
RufusSafer: Raijin grinned. "ya.. let's go."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine let Raijin pick him up.
RufusSafer: Raijin was so strong, carrying him along'
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine curled up in his arms
RufusSafer: "I love you Irvy."
FreedoniasatWar: "I love you too Raiji"
RufusSafer: Raijin carried him to their room
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine lay down, "Let's make love.."
RufusSafer: "Alright." Raijin started to remove his clothing.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine stripped his own.
RufusSafer: "You're still beautiful."
FreedoniasatWar: "Thank you..." Irvine parted his legs.
RufusSafer: Raijin slid down between them,\
FreedoniasatWar: "I love you so much"
RufusSafer: "Io love you too Irvy..."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine relaxed his body so Raijin could enter him.
RufusSafer: Raijin was slow, and gentle with entering.
FreedoniasatWar: it felt so good now... having someone take him like this.
RufusSafer: to be slow and gentle.. and huge at the same time
FreedoniasatWar: He moaned softly, taking it all in.
RufusSafer: "I love you." Raijin breathed, pulling his strong arms tightly around Irvine.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine kissed those lips, grinding his hips carefully
RufusSafer: Raijin's pace soon picke up, thrusting faster into that small body
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine was crying out for release.
RufusSafer: As was Raijin.. moaning
FreedoniasatWar: "Come inside me..." Irvine begged, his own orgasm about to spill.
RufusSafer: "I.. I will.." Raijin panted/
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine tried to hold his own back as he felt Raijin drip a bit.
RufusSafer: Raijin thrusted faster, going in deap.
FreedoniasatWar: he hit Irvine's delicate spot, making him want to come more.
RufusSafer: that's when Raijin burst.. moaning hard
FreedoniasatWar: that made Irvine drench them both.
RufusSafer: "Ohhh... IRVINE!"
FreedoniasatWar: "Raijin!!!" He moaned back.
RufusSafer: "Mmmmm." He sunk into the bed
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine clung to him, snuggling up.
RufusSafer: Raijin wrapped him in his arms.
FreedoniasatWar: "Mmmm... amazing as always...."
RufusSafer: "Amazing to be in your arms."
FreedoniasatWar: "Same here..." He purred a bit.
RufusSafer: Raijin smoothed his hand through Irvine's hair.
FreedoniasatWar: those long chestnut locks....
RufusSafer: Beautiful... and Raijin loved putting his fingers through it
FreedoniasatWar: it was so soft and silky, not unlike his father's down feathers.
RufusSafer: that made Raijin smiled.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine wanted to talk about their lives.. but not until morning.
RufusSafer: And Raijin was good to sleep against.
FreedoniasatWar: he was a big cuddly teddy bear.
RufusSafer: a very big one
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine fell asleep quickly in his protective arms.
RufusSafer: and Raijin fell asleep once he was sure Irvine was safe.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine slept, thinking of his future.
RufusSafer: With his Raijin.
FreedoniasatWar: and his father.
RufusSafer: The proud GF... the noble phoenix.
FreedoniasatWar: he took after his father's beauty
RufusSafer: Raijin was beautiful too in his own way
FreedoniasatWar: especially to Irvine, who clung to him the whole night.
RufusSafer: Raijin was warm.. and his
FreedoniasatWar: Body was large... and so gentle.
RufusSafer: His soul was gentle.. loving.. for Irvine
FreedoniasatWar: the next morning Irvine sat down with Raijin for breakfast.
RufusSafer: Raijin smiled, eating his fill of sasagues.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine watched him, "Raiji...?"
RufusSafer: "Yes Irvy?" he looked up.
FreedoniasatWar: "Since we're both half GF.. you think we should die mortals.. or become GFs...?"
RufusSafer: Raijin cocked his head. "I never thought of it ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: "That's what Dad and I was talking about..."
RufusSafer: "Well, what do you think?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I don't know.."
RufusSafer: "You don;t?"
FreedoniasatWar: "No..." Irvine held his head down
RufusSafer: Raijin reached over and patted his shoulder. "It's ok. I'll go where you go ya know,.":
FreedoniasatWar: "Thank you..." Irvine smiled.
RufusSafer: "So whereever you choose to go... I will be there." Raijin smiled.
FreedoniasatWar: "That means alot, Raijin..." He leaned over to kiss him.
RufusSafer: Raijin kissed back. "Means all to me."
FreedoniasatWar: "Now I have to go to my duties.."
RufusSafer: "Yes my love."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine stood up and went to meet with his advisors.
RufusSafer: They were pretty friendly folks and smiled at him as he entered. "Good morning sire."
FreedoniasatWar: "Good morning.. What's on the agenda?"
RufusSafer: "You're first speach to the public."
FreedoniasatWar: "Yes..." Irvine looked nervous.
RufusSafer: "We need to get the details down."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine sat down with them and worked on a speech
RufusSafer: "Very good sire." they all agreed after he was done
FreedoniasatWar: he dressed in something presentable and went to speak to his people.
RufusSafer: Raijin went with him.
FreedoniasatWar: he carefully addressed his people.
RufusSafer: They listend.. amazed that the princed had reclaimed the throne and become king.
FreedoniasatWar: he said he'd uphold peace... without hurting his nation.
RufusSafer: They clapped.. some of them.. but most were unsure
FreedoniasatWar: he would have to prove himself to the uneasy ones.
RufusSafer: Prove he was a good person
FreedoniasatWar: and not some weirdo like his mother.
RufusSafer: Not an evil person
FreedoniasatWar: he finished his speech and walked into the palace.. "I bombed..."
RufusSafer: Raijin frowned. "It didn't go over?"
FreedoniasatWar: "the people were so skeptical of me.. I could feel it"
RufusSafer: "Don't worry.. it's only natural after what your mom did ya know."
FreedoniasatWar: "Yeah..." Irvine hugged him.
RufusSafer: Raijin kissed him softly. "One day, they'll forget about this and think of you as great."
FreedoniasatWar: "Let's hope so lover..."
RufusSafer: "What do you want to do?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Start my new career..." he grinned and left with his advisors.
RufusSafer: Raijin grinned too and waiting for Irvine to return that night.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine had gotten back late.
RufusSafer: But Raijin was still awake, yawning though,. He smiled when Irvine came in.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine was beat, "Man.... that was rough..."
RufusSafer: "What ya do love?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I worked on more speeches, met with foreign leaders..." he sighed.
RufusSafer: "like who?"
FreedoniasatWar: "People from Galbadia"
RufusSafer: "Who is in charge now ya know?"
FreedoniasatWar: "I.. forgot his name..."
RufusSafer: Raijin chuckled.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine hugged him tight
RufusSafer: "At least you've got work."
FreedoniasatWar: 'True..."
RufusSafer: "what should I do?"
FreedoniasatWar: "You could be my guard.."
RufusSafer: "Hmmm... alright." Raijin grinned.
FreedoniasatWar: "That would be perfect.."
RufusSafer: Raijin wrapped him again in his big strong arms
FreedoniasatWar: "Mmmmm.. so warm and safe..."
RufusSafer: "Always my love."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine yawned, wanting to sleep.
RufusSafer: "Tired my love?"
FreedoniasatWar: "Very tired..."
RufusSafer: "Then let us rest."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine took a long shower and got into his pajamas.
RufusSafer: Raijin lay in bed, waiting for him.
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine crawled in, snuggling up.
RufusSafer: "Sweet dreams darling."
FreedoniasatWar: "Mmmm.. nite nite Raiji..."
RufusSafer: "Night my beloved Irvy."
FreedoniasatWar: Irvine slept soundly.