Prologue – Mission Parameters
Vincent shook his head and set the data pad containing the objectives of his mission on the desk in front of him.
"Something wrong, Vincent?" Reeve Tuesti folded his hands and leaned forward, a careful expression on his slender face.
"No," Vincent replied slowly. "It's just… Given my track record, I was expecting something more challenging than a simple recovery mission. Cetra ruins are valuable, but this is nothing your other volunteers couldn't handle."
Reeve's lips pursed as he shifted in his chair. "Yes, well… Given recent events, I thought it best to give you a less strenuous task than you're accustomed to."
"Recent events," Vincent echoed under his breath. "You mean the Omega Incident."
"Yes, Vincent. While I realize your skills are as sharp as ever – congratulations on winning the target shooting competition, by the way – I cannot in good conscience place you in a position that might compromise your mental state. Think of this as a simple field test."
Vincent's eyes narrowed at his old friend and newly appointed boss. "With all due respect, I don't need a vacation. You know as well as I do, I'm the most valuable man in the WRO. I've applied for reinstatement as a Turk. Instead, you're sending me on a hiking trip."
"Yes, I received your request. And you're right – you are undoubtedly our best fighter and tactician. But things are changing rapidly in Edge, Vincent – hell, things are changing all over the world. Rufus is back in charge, now… and he wants to make sure you're fit to guard his life before he accepts you back into the Turks."
"I should've known. Hmph. Rufus Shinra. Very well, then." Vincent stood then, recovering the data pad and storing it on his person. "When do I leave?"
"First thing tomorrow morning." Reeve leaned back in his chair with an air of relief. Vincent realized Reeve must have been uncomfortable giving him such a menial task. Knowing the order came straight from the top made it somehow less insulting, as he liked to think Reeve had more faith in him than to send him on such a simple errand.
As Vincent strode toward the door, Reeve called after him. "One more thing, Vincent. You'll be accompanied by a representative of Shinra, Inc."
Vincent paused, then turned slowly. "Who?"
"Whomever they choose. To my knowledge, it's more or less a coin toss between Rude and Reno of the Turks."
Vincent grimaced inwardly. Rude might not be such a terrible companion; at least he was quiet. The idea of traveling with Reno, however… Well, he just hoped it would be Rude, if anybody.