Triple Triad King

by

Syc0ticEpis0de

A/N: Normal alignment for all chapters: Activate! For this entry, two of these ... ... will indicate a 'quick jump' between different locations.

Ch 12: The Titan Rule

Balamb Garden, 12:30 pm

"-then BOOM! We blew the missile station to smithereens!" Selphie exclaims theatrically with exaggerated gestures.

"Oh my!" Ellone covered her mouth in suspense. "Did you really..?"

"Yup. Good thing, too," the little brunette chirped. "Both Balamb and Trabia Garden would've been toast."

Today was a rare, carefree day in a time of war. Some of the students and SeeD found comfort in the calm by spending it on FH. Others kicked back in the Dorms or diligently hit the books in the Library. Many were just content with a cozy lunch in the cafeteria. Meanwhile, the orphanage gang happily killed time in the courtyard with their big sis. They had fun regaling her with stories from the past, sharing laughs and tears in between.

"Wow, SeeD missions sound really tough." Ellone was looking at them with even greater appreciation. "You're all so incredible. I honestly don't know how you do it."

"Welp!" Zell set his guitar down and flexed his muscles proudly. "Takes a lot of manly courage to do what we do, ya know? S'no big deal. I usually let the fists do the talkin', ya know?"

"Don't casually talk like Raijin," Quistis chided.

"Mm." Ellone mentally chewed over Zell's words. "I see, so training the body and knowing how to throw a punch is crucial."

"Hey now, you gotta have charm, too," Irvine said with a tip of his hat. "Luckily you ain't lacking in that department, sis."

"Putting aside those 'essential qualities'," Quistis began with a sigh. "A certain measure of tact is important for any SeeD. Remember, it's not about how well you can perform in a fight. It's about how well you can assess them."

"That's right!" Selphie smiled wryly and hit her fist into her palm, as if she had a moment of lucidity. "And don't forget to Save often."

"Mm, of course. Yes, that does makes sense." Ellone nodded again. She mentally absorbed as much as she could.

"That reminds me. I have something for you, sis." Quistis reached into her pocket for a thin booklet. It was something she kept with her at all times- a habit from her instructor days.

"This is.. 'The Garden Code'?" Ellone read the title and briefly looked it over. The back had a passage that read:

Among the articles and text-based lessons drilled into each Garden student is the Garden Code. Within is a series of articles that informs the student on possible actions that could be performed during a given situation.

"I see, but why give this to me?"

"Even though you're not SeeD, or even a student for that matter, you're in Balamb Garden with us." Quistis pushed her glasses up, stating matter-of-fact. "It would mean a lot if you studied the procedures in case of an emergency."

Ellone understood it was the lovely blonde's way of showing affection. Should there ever be an emergency situation in Balamb Garden, the code would help her better respond to the circumstances. As they say, safety first.

"Quisty... Everyone, I don't know how to thank you. If there's anything I can do to help you, please never hesitate to ask."

Before, Ellone was just an unknown visitor to them. She was now their guest and big sis. Leaving Balamb Garden was the furthest thing from her mind right now. There was still the matter of reconnecting with Squall, after all. Talking to the gang had her feeling optimistic about seeing him again.

"It's enough to know you'll be close by," Quistis reassures with a faint smile. She'd been in a feisty mood after Squall left her room this morning. Talking to Ellone had calmed her down some. However, the thought of him still lingered.

"Heey, then today's your lucky day, sis." Selphie whipped out a name-tag and scribbled Big Sis~ (with hearts) on it. She handed it to Ellone and proclaims, "You've just become an honorary member of the Garden Festival Committee. Congrats!"

"Oh my, I hope I meet your expectations."

"Teehee!"

Zell also saw this as a good opportunity. "H-Hey sis, you think maybe you could listen to a few tunes I've been working on? I mean, if you're free..."

Ellone was genuinely intrigued at that. Turns out she missed Zell's debut performance (last night) at the FH concert. Even back in Edea's orphanage he would drum with sticks and spoons to try and impress her. Other kids would laugh, but it made her happy to see him pursue his passion. "I would love to hear your music, Zell."

"For real?! I mean, yeah, cool." He sniffed, casually thumbing his guitar.

"Alright, reckon I should get in on this." Irvine clicked his tongue thoughtfully, pondering what to ask of their cute sis. "Say, you play Triple Triad, right?"

Ellone smiled sheepishly. "I still have my deck, actually. I used to play a lot when I traveled on the White SeeD ship."

"Wow, sis plays Triple Triad! And you too, Irvy?" Selphie remembered Squall's love for that card game. Maybe they can teach me, she thought.

"Shoot, course I play. 'Cept I came up with this neat twist that makes it more fun."

"Neat twist?" Selphie tilted her head.

"More fun?" Ellone equally curious.

"You bet."

"What is this 'twist'?" Quistis asked, suddenly wary of him.

Irvine seemed confident as he explained. "Heh, I only play high stakes. See, instead of givin' up cards for the loss, the loser has to fork over a piece of clothing."

Quistis calmly got up from her seat and removed her glasses.

"A-A piece of-"

"C-Clothing?"

Both brunettes went slack jawed.

"Bingo. I call it Striple Tria-DOOWOOW!"

Irvine suddenly found himself in a standing guillotine hold.

"And we're done for today," Quistis huffed and squeezed tighter.

For Ellone, it felt like this peaceful afternoon would last forever. Just like Edea's orphanage back then, this seemed like a good place to call home.. if only for a time. She felt safe here, and knowing Squall was close by only reinforced her feelings.

It was the same for anyone residing in Balamb Garden in that they also felt safe. In that shared mentality, no one thought they could be openly attacked after the Galbadian missile crisis. Not with Garden's mobile systems online. Not under Squall's watch. Thus, not one person was assigned to guard duty on this carefree day.

However, as fate would have it, or perhaps for no reason at all, there was one man who unwittingly assumed such a game changing role.

Balamb Garden Cockpit, 1:00 pm

"You have got to be kidding me!"

Galbadia Garden was coming. Even after doing a double take with binoculars, it didn't change the fact. The massive structure was still a ways off, but it was clear they were moving full speed ahead. Their intent as clear as this day.

"Shit!" Nida didn't have time to be shocked. He took the automated lift back down without thinking twice about it.

Because he had just awoken from a long, painful slumber, his movements were sluggish and dull. Adrenaline was the only thing pushing him forward as he made a break for the P.A. system. He had to warn everyone of the impending danger. Every second mattered.

These days, things like this tended to happen for no apparent reason. Take Xu for example. If she hadn't knocked Nida unconscious the day she decided to skip work for a few hours, he would most likely be on FH enjoying shore leave. He would've been learning how to fish. He would've been sampling some of the local delicacies. There wouldn't be anyone to sound the alarm. Balamb Garden would've been taken by surprise. The fight would've been over before it began, and the war would've ended.

Xu had unknowingly given Balamb Garden a fighting chance against overwhelming odds, all because she was feeling lazy that fateful day.

The P.A. system went live. Nida was sweating. His hands trembled as he brought the microphone up.

"Emergency!"

...

...

Everyone fell silent. Utterly silent.

"Emergency! Enemy forces spotted! Galbadia Garden inbound!"

Students and SeeD in Balamb Garden were looking at each other. They hoped this was just some bad joke. Seconds ago they were laughing, forging new bonds, or enjoying something wonderfully mundane.

The illusion of safety completely shattered when Nida shouted once more:

"I repeat! Galbadia Garden is inbound!"

All at once, students in the library dropped what they were doing and rushed out. Books and papers scattering throughout.

The SeeD and underclassmen in the cafeteria did likewise. Chairs and the like knocked over in the commotion. Food still warm to the touch.

What students that remained in the dorms and hallways started frantically calling their friends and classmates still on Fisherman's Horizon.

Balamb Garden was in an uproar.

...

...

On FH

"An attack!?"

"There's no way..."

"I have to tell people here!"

"We're coming back now!"

War was at their doorstep. No one in Fisherman's Horizon was prepared for it. Word of the impending Galbadian assault quickly spread to the locals.

Mayor Dobe received the troubling news by phone. It seemed their home was in danger for the second time.

"Hrrm." The old man stared pensively out his window. He could still remember the clouds of smoke over his beloved home.

"Darling..?" The Mayor's wife, Flo, recalled her husband having that same stern look after their peaceful city was attacked. She knew what was coming without needing to be told.

Balamb Garden Infirmary

Dammit!

Squall couldn't believe it. How did the enemy find us? How much time do we have to prepare? Such were the thoughts running through his head.

Xu, who was supposedly asleep in one of the beds, was already awake and on her feet.

"Tch, how's a girl to nap with all this racket."

"Xu, you're..?"

"Up and at 'em," she said, dusting off her shoulder.

The P.A. system was still live.

"Commander Leonhart! Commander Leonhart! Please report!"

"Huh. Looks like Nida's awake, too." Xu sounded like she said it half to herself and half to Squall.

Squall didn't have time to be astonished by her antics. He just shook his head and steeled his nerves.

"Let's move."

Xu nods and cracks her knuckles before following his lead.

...

...

Rinoa didn't know what to do. She watched as all the Cadets and SeeD hustled to their respective positions. They were either trained or in training, so they had an idea of how to prepare for an attack even if the acting commander had yet to issue direct orders. Mostly, it looked like there was some method to the chaos.

"Angelo, what should we do?"

The dog whined and tilted its head.

"-are incoming! I repeat. This is not a drill!"

Just then, the princess saw Squall and Xu running in her direction from the Infirmary. She originally intended to make sure nothing 'funny' was going on between the commander and his elite operative, but now she was at a loss. Everything was happening so fast. The sight of Squall was comforting at least.

"Squall!" Rinoa waved to get his attention. "What's going on? Is there anything I can-"

"Not now! Find cover." Squall said as he ran past, making for the elevator.

"But I want to help!"

Xu shot an annoyed glance at the princess. "Get to the second floor with the noncombatants. You'll be safer there!"

With a dismissive wave, Rinoa was left behind. Her lips twisted bitterly. There was nothing she could say to that. All the same, standing idly was not in her nature. She was a rebel at heart and a Timber Owl still. She was the same girl who found herself at constant odds with her Galbadian General of a father.

"Woof!"

"You're right, Angelo. They're going to need all the help they can get."

...

...

Fujin and Raijin met up by the entrance to the Training Area. Officially, they were no longer with Balamb Garden. It was either fight or flight.

"Hey, it's jus' gettin' too hectic around here, ya know?"

"ASSIST."

"You kiddin'?! What if we fight Seifer?"

"ASSIST!"

Both of them could sense that their old posse' leader would be participating in the assault. Raijin could deal with beating down a few Galbadian soldiers, but the thought of potentially going up against him was just unthinkable. Even after everything that's happened.

"I dunno.. ya know?"

Fujin understood how he felt, but there was no telling what the Sorceress might submit their friend to in the future. It was better to seek out Seifer sooner rather than later, and beat some sense into him. Bring him back by force if need be. Additionally, if she could help Squall defend Balamb Garden here and now, all the better. This was the right path, she thought.

"WE FIGHT."

Raijin took a deep breath and slapped both sides of his face. "Haah! Guess it's now or never, ya know?"

Galbadia Garden 1:20 pm

Of the three Garden structures in existence, this one was by far the largest. It was a true beast as it parted the ocean violently in its wake.

"Raven Squad, stand by for Seifer's signal."

"Yes, Major."

Lieutenant Wedge and the rest of the men's motorcycles roared in response. They've been waiting a long time for this moment. With Galbadia's newest machines of war and the element of surprise, morale was high. No man had any doubts as the ramps began firing up, ready to launch them onto the enemy base.

Seifer stood at the forefront to see everything before him and everyone could see him. You could not read his expression with the mask he wore, but his stance, posture, even the way he lifted his head was all killing intent. It was nearly time to commence the attack, so he raised his black gunblade high into the air...

"Fox Squad, ignite thrusters and prepare to drop anchors. I want you in the air before we ram the bastards."

"Copy zat, Major. Engines hot."

Sergeant Markov and the rest of the paratroopers' A.A.P. suits came online, ready to dominate from the skies.

Major Biggs shut off the comm unit in his helmet. He stood in the Bridge Control Room with 3 trusted officials (and longtime war buddies). From here, they could oversee the troops and issue orders mid-combat.

"Ramming into Balamb Garden... Not impressive." One of the officers finally spoke up. He was saying what was on all their minds.

"This war dog also seconds that opinion. We risk significant structural damage to ourselves and compromise our boys in the vanguard."

"And there's something strange about Seifer. Anyone else get the feeling-"

"We have our orders," Major Biggs said as he turned to face them.

Even though he, too, had his doubts, the proud Galbadian Major didn't let that stop him from performing his duty. Biggs was a man ready to die for his country.

"But, Major."

"We're soldiers." He said with finality, thus quelling the commotion in the ranks. "Brothers in arms, are we not?"

"Of course, Major."

"Impressive choice of words."

"Hn, this war dog always follows through on an order."

These Galbadian war vets were truly incredible when it came right down to it. When they saw how Balamb Garden could be used on land and at sea, they realized the massive potential of using Galbadia Garden as their own mobile fortress.

As soon as they were able to awaken the red beast, the finest in the military were brought in. The students and SeeD of Galbadia Garden were either absorbed into service or detained, so there was plenty of room to house an elite force. This is what was about to collide into Balamb Garden. One crashing wave after another.

For the Sorceress, supreme ruler of the Nation of Galbadia, it didn't matter what damage FH would ultimately sustain in the process. It didn't matter how many were killed in the process, innocent or not. Ultimately, all that mattered was finding her.

On Balamb Garden

Ellone was in the very position she didn't want to be.

"Sis, we're taking you to a more secure location. End of story." Quistis left little room for argument.

"But what about all of you?"

"We're assembling in the Quad. Squall most likely returned, so we'll wait for his orders and muster a defense."

"Squall..." Ellone gripped her shawl at the mention. It seemed their reunion would have to be put on hold.

Zell grinned and fist pumped. "C'mon, sis. We're the bees' knees! We'll beat these punks back in no time."

"Booyaka!" Selphie added her own fist to the mix.

"You got that, sis?" Irvine was already priming his shotgun for the fight. "Ain't having you caught in the crossfire."

The orphanage gang was on the move. As per Garden Code, all students too young to fight or those unfit for battle in the event of an attack, were to be taken to an upper level classroom and watched over by a senior SeeD. Away from the fighting. This did not necessarily mean all noncombatants were treated thus, as even the lunch-ladies and general staff helped smooth along battle readiness.

"I...I understand. Please be careful, everyone."

For the first time since they reunited, Ellone didn't feel like the reliable big sis. The kids had grown up, and it was a fact that both saddened and overjoyed her. Time hadn't slowed or stopped for either of them. It was evident now more than ever.

...

...

Squall stepped out the elevator with Xu. They wasted no time getting to Bridge Control.

"Commander Leonhart! Operative Xu!" Nida was relieved to see them coming in, despite looking a mess himself.

Squall got to the point. "Galbadia Garden. How long will it take to reach us?"

"Estimate 10 minutes, maybe less. What are your orders?"

"Start manning Balamb Garden. If they came for us, we need to draw them away from FH. If not, we flank them."

"Yes, sir!"

"Squall, look." Xu had been sifting through Balamb Garden's social network on her mobile device. "There are still students and SeeD on FH. If we leave now they're not going to-"

"I know. Xu.. put me through on speakers. Relay everything I say to the message boards."

"On it."

For the second time ever, Squall was about to address all of Balamb Garden. He did not consider himself much of a public speaker, but assuming the role of leader was changing many things about him. The duelist spirit inside also helped bring out his assertiveness. With this, he understood the lives of everyone here hinged on his orders.

The P.A. system went live.

"Everyone, this is Commander Leonhart speaking..."

Squall mapped out his plan, put his faith into all who were listening, and instilled in them the belief that victory was possible. It was easier to do if he treated the situation like a duel. In fact, this was how he mentally prepared for it. Like a Random style match, this was the hand he'd been dealt. How and when he played his cards could make the smallest difference between victory and defeat.

...

...

On Galbadia Garden

"Major Biggs, enemy base is on the move."

"Now that's impressive reaction."

"Stay on them!"

"Proceed as planned."

Comm units chatter with activity as the massive Galbadia Garden closed in on the smaller Balamb Garden. From afar, the two titans almost resemble fantastical creatures about to fight for dominance of the seas. It was the big red beast chasing after the lesser blue one, in that regard.

Red was thirsty for blood and hot on its enemy's heels.

Blue, despite being smaller, was mechanically faster. Unfortunately, it lacked the momentum and accumulated force of its larger foe.

Little by little, the gap between them begins to close.

...

...

On FH.

"They're leaving?!"

"Look at this! Direct orders from Commander Leonhart."

"What if the enemy hits FH?"

"Just come on. All the more reason to get everything ready!"

Most of the students and SeeD (on Fisherman's Horizon) did make it back in time. What few that remained were now carrying out Squall's contingency plan, should the worst come to pass. All they could do now was try and get the locals to cooperate. It would be no easy feat, as the Mayor's pacifist ideals were very deeply rooted in them.

...

...

On Balamb Garden

Xu kept track of the enemy's movements with Nida's binoculars. "You called it! They're still coming for us."

"Good. Nida, can you handle everything here?"

"I got this, sir!"

"Xu, with me to the Quad Area."

The elite operative looked at the opposing force maneuver once more with grace unfit for its massive size. She clicked her tongue and followed after Squall.

"Sailing away from FH bought us some time, but that monster's got momentum on its side." The elite operative gave her thoughts as the lift took them back down. "It won't be long now."

Squall glanced at Xu. Everything seemed just fine on the surface, but given his recent experiences with the fairer sex, he felt like looking beyond what he could see. As a young man emotionally maturing, he just had to know...

"Xu, were you asleep at all?"

That kind of direct approach caught her off-guard, and it was written briefly on her sharp features. "Eeh~?"

The two got into the elevator together and Squall signaled for the First Floor. There was a brief calm between them once the doors closed. A stolen moment from the war.

"I'm just curious."

"As am I." Xu twisted her lips devilishly. "Squall. Leonhart."

The way she said his name when they were alone did something strange to him. It didn't help that the inside of the elevator made for a tight space.

"So you were awake."

"And why should I tell you?"

"Because I'm your superior." He turned to her, not backing down.

"Mm?" She lifted her head defiantly. It seemed like she was mentally debating something.. until finally she whispers, "Prove it."

Without thinking it, Squall backed Xu up against the wall. She hits it with a prolonged grunt, although it sounded more like a growl.

"Squall, what are you...a-ah!" The elite operative felt him pressing against her.

"Well?"

"T-Talk about a rock and a hard place." Xu was finding it difficult to look her commander in the eye. "Fine... OK, I was-"

Then the elevator doors open with a Ding!

Squall held her there for a moment. Searching those elusive, almond eyes. He then untangled from her and stepped out, resuming pace to the Quad Area as though nothing happened. "Let's go."

Xu's heart was racing. It was not something she was accustomed to. None the less, she followed after her reaffirmed superior. "Sir."

Quad Area 1:30 pm

The plan was to assemble with the Saber and Medic Class squads. Proficient Magic users were also put into teams, but they were assigned to the inner campus in case the enemy tried to flank them. With what little time they had to prepare, Balamb Garden's defense was looking solid. Once the Commander and his elite operative descended the steps to the Quad, they were greeted by a spunky, familiar face.

"Squall! Heey!" Selphie's enthusiasm for seeing him didn't go unnoticed.

Xu didn't pay it much mind and went over to check on the Saber teams.

Quistis on the other hand, was watching intently. She'd been paying more attention to Squall's interactions with the other girls as of late- Selphie in particular. That little brunette was quite chipper whenever he was around. It bothered her more than it should've.

"Selphie, what's the status here so far?"

"Duh, we're ready for a fight! And that speech you gave... we're all behind you. One hundred percent."

Squall nodded. He found some comfort in that reassurance.

"Yo, Chief!" Zell made his way over. He was wearing his brand new knuckles for the battle. "Tell me you got your Party figured out and that I'M in it!"

"I'll decide that soon."

Irvine and Quistis decided to come over as well.

Squall made brief eye contact with her, but she was the first to look away.

"Boss." Irvine tipped his hat. "We're about as ready as we're gonna be. Darn shame we ain't at capacity."

"And the noncombatants?"

"All those unfit for battle have been taken care of," Quistis chimed. She seemed disinterested in saying more than necessary to him.

Beneath it all, there were mixed feelings between former student and instructor. It was hard on Quistis because she was still upset with Squall, yet empathized with him all the same. It was mostly because he had yet to remember the past.. to remember Ellone.

The day their big sis was taken from the orphanage without notice, a young Squall shed tears. The two of them had been inseparable up until then. Quistis had tried filling Ellone's shoes, but she was nothing like his sis. The kids just called her 'bossy', and Squall avoided her most of the time. And right now there was no time to tell him everything they had remembered. The orphanage gang made the decision to approach him after the fight with their big sis. They wanted the commander to be focused on just the battle, believing everyone would live to see another day.

"...Good." Squall stepped ahead, negotiating his way across the Quad. He passed by groups of SeeD and Cadets, silently appraising their readiness.

Each line was neat and uniform. Some looked nervous. Others more composed.

Now at the center of the Quad Area, their Commander stood alone. The vastness of the ocean spread out before him. In the distance, the rumble of the opposing Garden could be heard. Violent waves. The crackle of metal and water like approaching thunder.

All eyes were on him.

Squall took a deep breath and calmly surrendered himself to the ocean breeze. In his head, he imagined drawing his starting hand in a Triple Triad duel.

I'm ready to decide my Party now.

The Two Titans at Sea, outside FH

Galbadia Garden was finally in range. At this rate they were going to ram into Balamb Garden's side, right near the Quad Area.

"Fox Squad, you are now clear for lift off!"

"Ve go. Targeting!"

The paratroopers drop the anchors holding them to the ground and quickly take to the skies like a swarm. A.A.P. suit thrusters ignite and propel them forward with menacing speed.

At the same time, the red beast closes the distance...

Creeeeeeaak! CRASH!

The two monsters collide, shaking the foundations from each side to the very core. Further movement at sea was simply impossible with the two locked in a primal death grip. It was hard to say how much damage was truly sustained from either Garden, but they were both still standing. The rotation rings that kept them afloat even scraped against each other like dueling swords.

Only then does Seifer thrust Hyperion forward, thus commencing the assault on Balamb Garden.

"Raven squad!"

"Aye, Major!"

From the control room Biggs released the compressors, allowing the ramps to launch the motorcycle squads like daredevils. Engines roar. It was a true wonder to see scores of them leaping across like bats out of hell.

"Gut the bastards."

...

...

Everyone on Balamb Garden managed to keep their balance from the force of the impact. The crash would've been more devastating had they remained docked in FH.

Shadows were cast from the skies as swarms of paratroopers zoom over them. They pay no mind to the army of SeeD and Cadets below. Their sights were apparently set on the campus buildings instead.

"What the hell?!" Zell pointed to the army of flying soldiers. "Yo! I think they're going for the upper levels!"

Squall was about to call ahead and warn the Magic Teams, but he hesitated the moment he saw soldiers shooting through the air. On goddamn motorcycles.

Vrruum! Vrruum!

The SeeD were more collected and held their ground against the oncoming invaders.

"Here they come!"

"Stay in line!"

The cadets on the other hand...

"W-Watch out!"

"They're too fast! Ahh-!"

The G-soldiers drew first blood. They landed in the Quad Area with swords drawn, moving fast and hitting hard. Some of the Cadet lines had already descended into chaos. Once they started scattering, they were easy pickings for the bikers.

"Damn them!"

"Everyone, on my mark..."

In response, some of the SeeD unleashed several well-timed Blizzaras to shoot up from the ground. The icy tendrils devastated the motorcycle troopers unfortunate enough to crash into them.

"They're using Magic!"

"Evasive maneuv-gahh!"

Crash!

Guns were finally being drawn once the rest of the Galbadian vanguard moved in. These men swiftly boarded the enemy base on foot and started opening fire at any SeeD casting Magic.

"Taking heavy fire!"

"Defensive formation!"

Protect shields flicker wildly from the amount of bullets being pumped into them. They were used no different than riot shields, in that they moved slowly forward under fire.

...

...

"Dance! Hah! Dance!" Irvine fired off several Pulse Rounds, aiming directly for the motorcycles. The beams of light cutting through them like paper.

"What is that?!"

"S-Shit!"

The motorists quickly spun out of control and crashed.

"You want some?!" Zell was waiting for the right moment.

"Die!" A G-soldier revved his motorbike with sword drawn and charged. Confident he could take out an unarmed man.

But as soon as he got close-

"Get some!" Zell decked the G-soldier clean off his ride, those brand new knuckles connecting with a critical 2521!

"What the..." The bike spins wildly before crashing and burning.

...

...

Galbadia Garden Bridge Control

Major Biggs listened intently to the comms. It was full of codespeak, cursing, and calling of objectives. Every now and then, he would tune in on a particular frequency and issue a direct order. His war buddies carried on in similar fashion.

"Hit the Cadets first."

"Covering fire on Magic users."

"Watch that overhead."

"Tangos are using Protect. Switch to Dispel-Rounds."

The battle was going more or less how they predicted. However, the advantage they were looking for was not as great as they had hoped. The SeeD were well prepared and dangerous in a defensive position. The Sabers in particular outclassed the G-soldier's in CQC and ranged combat alone. Despite the Cadets not doing spectacularly, most were holding their own against the seasoned troops. Galbadia still had the numbers, but it was just surprising to a war vet like Major Biggs.

"Hn, the fight should go smoother once Fox Squad secures the objective."

...

...

On Balamb Garden

The first card had been played: using the strongest SeeD in Balamb to helm the defense in the Quad. Irvine and Zell were fighting alongside them, both in command of a squad of Cadets.

Squall and his team on the other hand, were on the move. Under gunfire. Surrounded by the incessant shriek of motorcycles. The occasional burst of Magic followed by a cry of pain. This was war. Much like the first time he saw battle in the Dukedom of Dollet, everything was starting to turn into a blur. Though he was still in full control and aware of his surroundings, he couldn't quite 'see' the battle it as though it were there in front of his eyes.

"Keep moving!" He barked, having already reached the steps leading into the campus.

"Right behind ya!" Selphie managed to keep up whilst maintaining a Protect. It flickered occasionally as it absorbed ricocheting bullets.

"Squall! There's still no response from the Magic teams." Quistis was beginning to worry. Those inside the buildings have no idea of the incoming paratroopers.

"Those sky soldiers couldn't have reached them yet." Xu reassured, managing to keep a shield on herself and her dear friend at the same time. "Tch, I bet they're jamming the signal."

"Then we have to hurry." Squall waited until everyone on his team made it inside.

Damn. They're trying to split us in two.

Just before going in after the girls, the commander glanced back at the battle in the Quad.

...

...

Irvine's Shiva had just broken free of her icy prison. Machine gunners immediately began shooting at the frozen goddess, though none were aware of the futility of shooting at a 30 second cut scene.

"What the hell?!"

"Just keep shooting!"

"But.. she's so hot."

Diamond Dust

Freezing air shoots into the high ground where the Galbadian gunners nested, chilling them in place. Their bodies trapped in ice crystals. With a snap of her fingers, the confused soldiers burst into 4302, 4235, 4563, 4765...and so on.

"That's my girl." The sniper blows a kiss. Onlookers could've sworn they saw the Shiva lift her middle finger at him before fading away.

"Booya!" Not far off and not to be outdone, Zell was uppercutting Dolphins into unsuspecting bikers.

"You can't be serious! Kh!"

"No! My only weakness..."

Crash!

Vrru-BOOM!

Despite the scores of soldiers being taken out, they just kept coming. If one died, it seemed like two were being put back in place. The forces of Balamb Garden were still holding their ground despite the initial shock and awe tactic of the motorcycle troopers. However, it wouldn't take long for the overwhelming numbers to begin withering down even the most skilled SeeD. Their Magic was limited. Their stamina was limited. Will was limited.

Squall understood that even with the current state of the defense still in their favor, something had to be done. They couldn't just take everything being thrown at them.

No...

The lion aimed his sights high at the enemy's red titan, still clutching onto Balamb Garden with its metal jaws. It kept pouring more and more soldiers with each passing moment. His duelist instincts immediately knew what had to be done.

We must sever the beast's head!

As soon as they dealt with the paratroopers inside, it would be time for Squall to play his next card...

To be continued

A/N: For anyone interested, CH. 2 has been revised.