Shado: Man, I am on a roll! And I think this is one of the longest chaps I've done for this story. Anyway, lots of plot line revealed here! It's getting closer and closer to the point I'm so anxiously awaiting for! That's probably why I'm updating like crazy.
Disclaimer: I own nothing, including the song Looking For Angels by Skillet, where the title of this chapter is sort deprived from the lyrics. I had to delete a word to make the title fit in the upload.
Chapter Eight – Angels Show Up in Strangest of Places
"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."
~ Bill Cosby
=3=
He had remained within the slums of Midgar for about a week, waiting to hear from the boy if he had been ruled out of the program. It was an agonizing week, one where he had to hide in the shadows away from the people and the Turks that freely roam about here. The stench of vomit, grime, mold, and mako was overpowering here.
Even so Vincent endured. When he received no word, he left Midgar behind. He made it clear that if the boy was rooted out of the program after the first week then he was to contact him. Since it didn't happen, it was safe to assume the boy will have six months of hard core training.
Still for a month and a half he remained close enough to Midgar where he could arrive within a moment's notice. When nearly two months passed he ventured further away as he took up more missions. He was still trying to hide under the radar of the Turks, so he took on minor jobs as a lone mercenary. When needed to, he could put on a rather good disguise so he wouldn't appear out of the ordinary other than the golden claw as his left hand.
After all, the Turks wouldn't look for a mercenary who was actually Gunslinger so close to Midgar. A mercenary was someone unimportant, someone with a job that paid well and allowed Shin-Ra soldiers to do other things besides these tasks of villagers crying out for help. For a company that was aiming to protect the people, it was not doing a successful job at driving to their goal.
And now with three months gone, the training program was halfway done. Now confident enough to travel without a disguise, enough time went by for the Turks to let go with the prospect of catching the assassin in vengeance. Vincent set aside all missions his contacts offered and made his way towards Nibelheim.
He had not gone back since the village was destroyed, therefore he didn't know what to expect once he arrived. It was a long journey, but with some greens he captured and tamed a chocobo to make the trip less lonely and enduring. To make things better the chocobo didn't seem fazed at all by the monsters they encountered on the way. It took a while, but it eventually grew accustomed to the sound of Cerberus firing.
Once he arrived Vincent had expected to see an abandoned village with crumbling walls blackened by time. Instead he found Nibelheim rebuilt, with people thriving within it. There was no doubt in his mind these people were a fake. Shin-Ra employees paid to live here and pretend the village had not been destroyed once before. There was only one reason for the company to go such great lengths to do this.
The mako reactor on Mt. Nibel. Although the mako was not inhabited by employees, it was still an important reactor for Shin-Ra to keep tabs of. It supposedly provided most of the mako Shin-Ra needed, as the mountain was one of the biggest of the world and still had endless amounts to last for centuries. Vincent wasn't quite sure the latter was true or not. Eventually the mako was going to be all used up, just like oil when it has become harder and harder to locate and drill the resource.
Cautiously Vincent moved through the town. It was to his luck he arrived very late at night, when everyone was asleep. Still he was trying to move as quietly as possible with the chocobo, whose large feet could awaken anyone who did not sleep so deeply. Eventually he made it past the last of the houses and in front of the gates of Shin-Ra Mansion. He was not surprised that the original mansion was not torn down, but remained as it was.
The mansion held the image of what the rest of Nibelheim should look like. The paint on its walls was peeling off, darkened by time and weather. The structure appeared sturdy, but he spotted a few spots where the wood was moldy and soggy. There wasn't enough sun for the wood to dry from its ailments.
As Vincent stared at it, he couldn't shake the feeling the mansion was staring right back. It seemed to have a life of its own as it creaked and groaned while ghouls and monsters inside moved about or fought each other for whatever small territory they could maintain. To increase his unease, the demons within stirred. They did not want to be within a hundred feet of this place, and they urged for him to turn back and forget exploring whatever stored information the mansion held.
'Must we come here, host? Couldn't you, what's that word…hack into Shin-Ra's main frame and extract the information you need from there?' Chaos was the most vocal about this place.
'I do not have a powerful enough computer to do so and not leave a trace for the Turks to follow. Besides, there could be one in here that could do what you suggested, if it still works.' Vincent was thinking about the computer Lucrecia had used for the Chaos Project.
'I know what device you speak of, host. I would rather destroy it than use it. However, I see your point. Let us make this quick. I wish not to linger in this cursed place.'
Finally, something he and the demon could agree on that was not Cloud Strife. The chocobo was beginning to show its unease with the mansion, so Vincent got off and removed the saddle and bridle. He fondly handed the last of the greens and let it go. The beast happily chirped and then went back the way they came.
Before Vincent could so much as touch the gates and push them open, they opened by themselves. His unease grew, as it felt like the beginning of a horror film. But he needed to sort through Hojo's old notes here. And if the computer was still salvageable, he could greatly use its power to look through any information the company had about the Strife family. For if he was to look for records of any families, Shin-Ra would surely have it as it was one of their darker habits to obtain all information about any citizens no matter how unimportant they were.
Vincent made his way through the courtyard. Behind him he heard the creaking of the gates closing on their own. Out of instinct the assassin pulled Cerberus out of its holster. With caution he awkwardly opened the front door with the clawed hand and peered in. Dust covered everything where it could settle. The wood inside seemed to have fared better than the ones outside, for they were dry and appeared sturdy despite going through years without proper care.
Seeing no immediate danger, Vincent walked in. He had gone just three feet from the door when it suddenly slammed shut. He whirled around, gun raised and ready, but there was nothing there. He distinctively heard the turn of a lock.
He stood there, confused, but still kept Cerberus aimed at the direction of the door. He could not see or sense anything out of the ordinary. And the demons were just as alert. Surely they would be able to sense whatever slammed the door and locked it. At least they couldn't blame a highly intelligent monster that had thumbs.
After three minutes of just standing there Vincent lowered his gun. Moving about as silent as possible he set out to look for the computer room.
He had a horde of monsters to fight through to get to his destination, which was annoying. Some of them were mutated, and there was one that was huge and swung around in the air as it hung onto the chain of its weapon. That was the only creature where Death Gigus grew impatient during the fight and urged to come out, which Vincent gladly allowed.
He swore Gigus had a superiority complex of some sort. It always seemed to be roused when they fought huge monsters that were a challenge. Maybe it had something to do with the fact Death Gigus was a hulk of a demon.
Eventually he came across Hojo's base of operations. To his surprise there was little dust within this room. Although he could tell this place hasn't been touched in a long time. It just seemed even the dust bunnies avoided the place where Hojo conducted his experiments. The computer was against the far wall, and with a few push of the buttons he coaxed it to life.
The thing still somehow works. With little effort he hacked into Shin-Ra's systems and typed in Strife. He had expected maybe a few folders to show up. Instead there were endless files. This was not a good sign in his book. He scrolled through until he found the first of Hojo's notes. It was dated sixteen years past. He opened the file and began to read.
Entry No. 1
Date XX/XXXX
The subject has been comatose due to the large amount of sedatives the Turks shot him with. Although he should practically be dead, his heart still beats. Interesting. Will have to see just how strong this man truly is.
Entry No. 2
Date XX/XXXX
Finally, after weeks being under and with the help of mako injections, the subject opened his eyes. He doesn't seem all that surprised that he's alive. He doesn't even inquire about his wife. Strange. Perhaps this was all planned out indeed.
He doesn't answer any of my questions. The subject glares at me. I am sure he would attempt to strangle me, but at the current moment his body is still weak from recovering from the coma. I will have to find a way to keep him in line.
Entry No. 3
Date XX/XXXX
The subject seems resigned to his fate. He answers any questions, albeit he doesn't give me any answers to go on. Although he glares at me I allow him to walk about, so long as he does not fight when it's time for the injections.
The mako seems to be the reason why he didn't die from the sedatives. It would seem the subject is the ultimate carrier. Perhaps with a little tweaking, I could create another spectacular result as Project S.
And thus I am now going to add J Cells infused in the mako cells.
Entry No. 3, Later
There was an immediate reaction upon first injection with J Cells. The subject screamed and writhed on the table, demanding what was introduced into his system. When asked what he was feeling, the subject claimed to be experiencing burning sensation as the J Cells moved though his body.
He was in so much pain apparently when large wings sprang out from his shoulders. Before I could properly examine them the subject experienced a mental breakdown. It took some time, but my assistants and I were able to subdue him with sedatives spiked with mako. The subject was out in no time.
As the subject was being transferred back to his cell, I watched with great fascination as the feathers of his wings transformed. At first they were white. But for some reason the introduction of the J Cells made the feathers turn black. Very intriguing. I will have to collect a sample and take a closer look.
Entry No. 4
Date XX/XXXX
Upon awakening the subject has gone through more changes other than the change of color of feathers. His eyes have a permanent glow now, and unlike similar experiments where the pupils become more feline, the subject still retains the oval shape. Though they seem bigger than normal, making him truly appear like the nickname his peers claimed him to be a wolf in human skin.
The voice changed too. The subject's voice is deeper now, and perhaps a little more sensual. He smiles more often, if one can call it a smile. It appears more of a wolf grinning as if it were presented its favorite meal, but instead of eating it he's toying with it. When the subject laughs, it is cold and humorless, a complete opposite of his personality before the last injection.
Sometimes the subject hums. Upon listening, it has reminded me of the same tunes Ghast's girl hummed. That woman was one of the last few of the Ancients, as was her daughter. Is it possible I stumbled across another Cetra? If so, then it might be possible to breed him. But the subject already has an unborn child, one that has escaped from our grasp thanks to the subject's wife. Perhaps, if I bid my time, the child will show up on our radar.
I will have to take a closer look at his DNA, see if he truly does have Cetra blood in him.
Entry No. 5
Yes! The subject is a definite match to the Cetra lineage! He is roughly at ninety eight percent, more than Ghast's wife and their child. Perhaps with this subject, I can create better soldiers suited for the purposes of Shin-Ra.
I have requested the Turks to put up another search for the subject's wife and child. At best they will keep an eye out for them. No matter, even if they aren't found, we still have the father. Although there is one concern that I find disturbing.
The subject does not take well to J Cells. The body is trying to reject them, so I have stopped the flow of J Cells in the injections. I have increased the number of injections with mako, and that seems to have helped a little. But I'm missing something critical for him to be physically stable.
At the current moment the subject is showing great psychological trauma. It has been reduced to growls and snarls. The subject bites anyone who comes too close, nearly bit the hand off of one of my assistants that have grown fond of him. The woman didn't return because of that incident.
I will have to conduct further research to rectify the subject's behavior and health. I will not let such a rare find slip through my fingers. It could be possible to transfer a few samples from Project S into the subject, since they are almost identical in structure of a perfect carrier. If that doesn't work, then I will have to urge the Turks to find the subject's child. I hope its mother doesn't interfere with the amount of Cetra blood in the child.
There were a few more entries after that, but Vincent didn't have the heart to continue. Maybe later on once he recovered from the shock of reading them. Of all the things he came here for, he did not expect this at all.
'Host. We should not have allowed the boy to join the training program.' Chaos growled, the others joining him soon afterward.
Guilt and horror was swirling through his head right now. The demons were right. He shouldn't have allowed Cloud to go. The chances of Hojo taking notice were too great. And surely the Turks are suspicious right now. The boy has no protection from the Turks.
As he recovered, an alarm nearly made him jump out of his skin. The computer was locked out of Shin-Ra's system. Somehow it detected him going through them. With newfound horror, Vincent fled the mansion as fast as he could. The Turks would surely come to the scene of the crime. It will take some time, still Vincent had to put as much distance between him and Nibelheim in order to be safe.
=3=
"Tell me, why am I here again Director?" Genesis crossed his arms, eyes accusing as they shifted from the director to Sephiroth.
"Hold on a moment, we're waiting for one more person to join us." Lazard said without looking up from his paperwork.
Just then the door opened to reveal Lt. Zack Fair. The First was humming a strange tune, one none of the other men have heard. But the moment Zack saw Genesis he paused and straightened his shoulders, smile gone.
"Um…I didn't do it!"
"You're not being accused of something. Not unless you wish to confess anything right now?" The director glanced up from his desk to eye the young First.
"I assure you I've been a good boy, director. So uh…why am I here?" Zack cautiously stepped forward and eyed the red commander suspiciously.
"The two of you sent in a request to take a recruit in as your pupil. The problem here, lies in the fact both of you requested the same recruit, Private Cloud Strife." Lazard informed, setting aside the current papers he had been working on. "While looking through his files, I admit he has some potential. But I wish to know why the two of you show so much interest. I have to choose by either whoever's the most convincing, or go about resolving this issue academically."
"Meaning…?" Zack raised an eyebrow.
"He will grant Genesis the boy as his pupil." Sephiroth informed. "While you may have befriended him, Zackary, you have been a First for not even a year. And you've just started your teaching career as well. Meanwhile Genesis has been a commander for nigh seven years, and has been teaching Materia ever since he became a First. Academically, he has more experience than you. However, you're the one who has a knack of understanding people."
"But…but I sent in my request two months ago! When did Genesis send in his?" The young man pouted.
"Just yesterday. And don't forget I saw him before any of you. Remember Kalm?" Genesis smirked at the sight of a nearly snarling Zack.
"It doesn't matter who sent in the request or who saw him first." Lazard shook his head. "I was about to give you the go ahead when Genesis decided to slap his request on my desk. The only reason I'm debating about this is that I can't ignore what Sephiroth said about you, Zack. You're one of the few I've seen to get him to talk upon first meeting."
At that Zack perked, tilting his head. "Really? What about the commanders?"
"It took Genesis only two days when he realized flirting wasn't going to do any good and had the bright idea to harass him. You can imagine how that turned out. Angeal took a while longer, but you can say he's the glue that holds the other two together aside from the friends with benefits part." Lazard sighed, as if disgusted in saying the last bit out loud. "Anyway, I would like to resolve this today at the very least. There's a disturbing matter that requires my immediate attention. I'll listen to your arguments one by one and then I'll decide. Lt. Fair, if you would please step outside for a moment."
Zack nibbled his lip, but did as he was asked without a complaint. If he was going to convince the director he can mentor Cloud, then he might as well show that he's matured. Even if he matured a little bit, though it might just be enough. As soon as the door closed Lazard turned his attention to the red commander.
"Director, dear Sephiroth has already pointed out my advantages over Fair. However, I would like to add that as good as a soldier he is in the field, he has little to no understanding about controlling Materia. Yes, he can use them, but can he teach Strife to channel the power within the Materia? Just yesterday the boy blew out the entire classroom without even trying."
"A fair point, but what makes you think I should grant him to you?" Lazard made it clear he was not going to play favorites.
"I've seen the Turks shadowing him. If we don't claim the boy now the Turks might try and recruit him onto their side. Although he shows potential in all fields except for the obstacle course that might prove to be his downfall. The Turks will keep him away from the SOLDIER program if he doesn't improve in that field. Under Fair, the boy will become an easy target. You know he's befriended a few of them, he trusts them too much." Genesis was scowling now, he detested the Turks. He only trusted them enough to do their jobs and doing it clean and swift.
"About that, do either of you know why the Turks are shadowing him? This is the matter I'm trying to look into, but Tseng has his reasons locked as tight as the security system." The Director eyed both Genesis and Sephiroth.
At that both general and commander shared a concerned look between them.
"You think it's more than because they're interested of recruiting him." Sephiroth crossed his arms. It wasn't a question but a statement.
"The night the mayor of Kalm was assassinated, Tseng told me he had seen a blond concubine with the mayor before he was killed. He also caught a glimpse of Gunslinger, but he didn't see much other than a dark red blur. And before he could comprehend the mayor was dead, both Gunslinger and the concubine disappeared." Lazard was drumming his fingers into his desk, suddenly feeling anxious. "We think the most probable reason for the concubine to go missing was because he's Gunslinger's apprentice."
"But the assassination was done at night. He couldn't have had a good look at the concubine. And how do we know Gunslinger wasn't looking for a little pleasure?" Genesis pointed out.
"Tseng may not have mako in his system, but he can observe every little detail no matter the circumstance. I could simply be jumping into conclusions here, but there is another reason that has just come to mind." Lazard shrugged. "And people disappearing after a kill made by Gunslinger, that is not his M.O. As soon as the assassination is complete he leaves without a trace. Even if he did decide to take a risk in having a little fun, he would kill the boy as soon as he served his purpose. Thus far, no bodies matching the concubine's description have been found."
"If he truly is an apprentice of Gunslinger, then why would he allow him to join the army? Is he trying to have someone he trusted over anyone else to find a way to sneak Gunslinger in?" Sephiroth narrowed his eyes. "I find it hard to believe that man would willingly let his apprentice go. The chances of him being caught are too high."
"While I agree with you there, we can't eliminate the possibility." Lazard was drumming his fingers on the desk again.
"What is the second theory you have about the Turks following Private Strife?" To Sephiroth, the idea of Cloud being an assassin's apprentice was absurd.
"It's about his father, who was a commander and a promising soldier who could have been general. I am sure you've heard of the rumors going around in the higher ranks, yes? I personally looked into it, and to my surprise the man is in fact Private Strife's father. What's disturbing however, is that in the records he submitted to us didn't mention his mother, only his father, but under a different name."
"And how is that disturbing?" Genesis crossed his arms.
"His father died soon after he murdered a great deal of soldiers. During the confusion his pregnant wife disappeared. The Turks couldn't find her, which is no surprise when she was a daughter of a Turk."
"This just goes to show we have to keep Private Strife. If the Turks get their hands on him, they will not let him go. Or if they do, he will be broken beyond repair." The red commander snarled.
"Right. I'm still debating, Genesis. Head outside and send Fair in."
When the red commander was gone, Sephiroth returned to lean against the wall. Since they had a moment, he shared his opinion.
"I would prefer Zackary be the one to mentor Strife. Although Genesis does make a point about the Turks, it is the one drawback that I see about Fair."
Lazard tilted his head, surprised the general would offer an opinion. "You've met this boy, I presume? What is it about him that attracts everyone's attention? Even yours, for that matter."
"He is…an enigma. He is stubborn, and shows he has good intuition with the sword like Zack. Though he has a little more sense than Fair. Still, he is naïve. And yet there are signs he's had serious training of some kind before he came to us."
At that the director sighed. "If that's the case then the suspicion of him being an assassin's apprentice is quite high. And he was trained under not just any assassin, but Gunslinger, who has been a thorn on our side for far too long."
"Assuming he is Gunslinger's apprentice." Sephiroth glared at the blond.
"You really like this boy if you're trying to protect him from the scrutiny of the company. The chances are unlikely, but the odds aren't exactly in his favor." Lazard didn't seem fazed at all by the silent threat. "If you're so fascinated, how come you're not taking him as your pupil? This could very well solve everything, as well as get the Turks off of him."
The director didn't notice Zack entering. The First stopped in his tracks at the inquiry. He looked at the general with a horror at not only arguing against Genesis, but Sephiroth too on mentoring Strife.
"Tempting as that may be, but I will have to pass. You know that anyone who catches my interest will be under the watchful eye of Hojo. I would rather not see the boy become another pet for that man." Though that doesn't mean Sephiroth wasn't seething on the inside about Genesis claiming the boy.
"Hmm. A silent, seething General Sephiroth. I'm surprised you haven't run your sword through Genesis yet." The director shook his head. "When will the two of you end this dangerous dance?"
"When one of us can't do the steps anymore." Sephiroth responded coldly, though he didn't hide the smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. "As of late, Genesis has been trying my patience. He has yet to face me head on, however."
"I would make a suggestion in allowing Angeal to be around when the two of you clash swords. He's the voice of reason that can get through those stubborn skulls of yours." Lazard looked up, noticing the First. "Ah, Zack. I apologize for keeping you waiting."
"No problemo, el director." Zack grinned, now completely at ease since he didn't have to worry about Sephiroth.
"Anyway, I heard Genesis side. Tell me, what makes you think you'll be a better mentor for Private Strife?"
"Well, I'm already friends with him. Over the past three months he's been getting better in the training program. Though he has a noticeable issue with the obstacle course, but I think I have an idea to rectify that."
At the last bit Sephiroth raised an eyebrow. "Since when did the puppy learn how to use big words?"
"Must be something in the water." Zack grinned at his own joke.
"Pray tell this plan of yours is not something questionably dangerous, Lt. Fair." Lazard adjusted his glasses, refusing to pinch the bridge of his nose with dread.
"Pfft! Of course not! You wound me, Director!" The First waved off. "Anyway, all I'm gonna do is copy and paste what Angeal did with me. You remember when I was a recruit? I couldn't make that obstacle course, either. In fact, I think my worst record still stands."
"Actually, that record was broken. The irony of it is that it was Private Strife who now has the worst record in Shin-Ra history. So what exactly did Angeal do to get you to pass that course?" The director was interested now.
At that the lieutenant slumped his shoulders. "Well it looks like I've got my work cut out for me then…anyway, the plan is to turn the obstacle course from a Course of Hell into a game of fun. We simply take the fastest chocobo, and have it race through the obstacle course. Yeah, it's still a race, but it's not timed and no one wants to be beaten by a chocobo. Or get chocobo shit in your face, for that matter."
"And this actually worked with you?" Sephiroth tilted his head, puzzled.
"Hells, yeah! It took a while, but eventually I managed to beat the chocobo. And when it was timed I beat the time limit the instructors set." Zack was grinning widely now, the other two men could picture a wagging tail and perked up ears sticking up through those dark spikes.
"An interesting idea, indeed. And it's worked before, as crazy as that sounds. Well, thank you Lt. Fair. Would you mind stepping outside again? Both you and the commander will wait while I council with the general on a decision."
"Sure can do, director!" With that the First left the office with a hop in his step and humming the strange tune from earlier.
"What say you, general? I am no closer to making a decision than before." Lazard was drumming on his desk again.
"I still stand by what I said earlier. However, Genesis does bring up a valid point in warding off the Turks. Still, Zackary's idea on getting the recruit to pass that obstacle course is promising."
"Hmm." After a moment the director glanced at the general. "Do you think they will agree with a collaboration of sorts?"
"They're not friends, as I'm sure you're well aware, director. They would argue over every little detail, as well as drag Private Strife into the whole mess. But what do you have in mind?"
"It's to see which one the recruit responds best with. The commander can help him channel the power of Materia and private sword training. Meanwhile, Zack helps him with the obstacle course, as well as be the one to take him out on missions. All recruits have to experience at least three missions before the mako tests. This way, for a while at least, everybody's happy. And if we still can't choose by the end of the training program, then we'll let Private Strife choose his mentor."
Sephiroth thought over the plan. It was very promising, he couldn't ignore that fact. Though the one flaw is the fact they're talking about Genesis. The man never likes to share. He was possessive of every little thing he owned, and he had no problem getting what he wanted no matter how crass his methods were. It could take a lot of convincing him and a whole lot of Sephiroth's time stalking his friend to make sure he didn't overstep any boundaries.
But will it be worth it? For the recruit, yes, he could see Private Strife benefit greatly from both Fair and Genesis mentoring him. And in the end if he got to choose his mentor, then all the better. It would mean Private Strife made his decision from his own standpoint. Would it make Sephiroth feel any better? No, not really. Genesis still has a chance to become the boy's mentor, after all.
"Let's see if they will agree to this plan of yours first. If not, then you will have to set aside whatever plans you have until you've come to a decision."
When both lieutenant and commander were brought back in, Lazard explained his plan over with them. To their surprise, Genesis was happy to go along with it. He was eager, even. Zack, however, was a little more reluctant.
"So…I have to work with Genesis to mentor Cloud?"
"Essentially, yes. Until the end of the training program of course, and if I still can't choose then we let Private Strife choose."
"Why not let him choose anyway? I mean, a collaboration of a commander and a lieutenant? I'm sorry, sir, but that's a little unusual. Even for me, mostly because it's Genesis I have to work with."
"Well if you feel that way then just step aside and let me mentor him. Simple as that." Genesis smirked.
"The only reason I sent in the request was because I knew you were interested, Genesis. You said before the training program started that you were thinking about taking him in as a pupil. But you don't understand how people feel. I learned something about him of which you would care nothing about. If you make a snide comment that cut too deep, he will take it very seriously. And poof," Zack made a motion with his hands to add effect. "You've lost your pupil."
"What exactly did you learn, Lt. Fair? I don't mean to intrude, but there is a delicate situation at hand involving Private Strife and the Turks. They've been following him, and there are two plausible reasons that are both equally disturbing." Lazard frowned, leaning forward with elbows on his desk and hands intertwined before his mouth. The director meant serious business.
"The Turks have been keeping tabs on him? For how long?" Zack tilted his head, completely confused.
"See, this is why I should be Private Strife's mentor. With me, the Turks will give up tailing him." Genesis remarked with a scoff, crossing his arms.
"This is serious, Genesis." Sephiroth reprimanded with a cold tone to his voice.
"Enough, all of you. I don't want a fight in my office." Lazard stood up, intervening before the red commander could argue further.
All men turned away, avoiding the director's gaze. With a sigh the blond man sat back down and adjusted his glasses. This time he did not resist the temptation of pinching the bridge of his nose. He could feel the sexual tension between the two higher ranking soldiers, while he and Fair were caught in the middle of it. Lazard was beginning to wonder if he should call Angeal back now even if his mission was not yet completed.
"Lt. Fair, if you would care to elaborate? The Turks are interested in him and I need to know why. If we have all of this sorted out now we can effectively plan how to keep Private Strife away from the Turks."
"Well…can you promise me that none of you will question him about this? He only told me by accident when he had a…momentary breakdown. Even then, there's not much to tell." Zack nibbled his lip.
"Let's pretend we didn't hear the words 'momentary breakdown' from your mouth." Sephiroth crossed his arms and leaned against the wall.
"Why? What's wrong? Does this have something to do with your theories about the Turks tailing him?"
"If we tell you, will you promise not to speak about this to anyone?" Lazard offered.
"…All right." Zack nodded. He hated being out of the loop. And he was good at keeping secrets, for the most part anyway.
And so the director recounted everything he had told the other two. Now and then Sephiroth would add a few details to clear up whenever the young lieutenant was confused. Genesis remained silent during the whole ordeal, which made everyone else feel a bit disturbed. It was usually the only one foretell sign the red commander was going to explode. But as Lazard continued to explain, it became clear Genesis was waiting for it to be over.
"Jeez, Cloud as an assassin? Nah, I can't picture it! He's too adorable and he cares for everyone who is a friend." Zack just couldn't believe there was even suspicion of Cloud being Gunslinger's apprentice. Sure, they have some speculation of evidence, but it wasn't anything solid. Plus, Tseng didn't have mako in his system. He wouldn't be able to see much detail of the blond concubine that night!
"It is a matter we cannot rule out. Tseng told me what he saw when it was still fresh in his mind. I was one of the few he probably called to inform me Gunslinger had taken out one of our employees." In the director's mind the mayor of Kalm was better off dead. Gunslinger saved Shin-Ra a lot of time on setting up scandalous evidence and then locking up the man in prison.
"Okay, but I guess now I'll have to tell you what I know, right? Well, it's not gonna clear anything up. I think it'll just leave you guys more confused, cuz I sure am when it concerns your second theory. Basically? All he told me was that his mother sacrificed herself for them to escape from monsters. He later told me no one else from the town made it, and he wasn't clear as to who the other person who helped him escape."
"Did he mention when this was taken place?" Lazard was curious, as were the other two.
"He said it happened roughly ten years ago, so he was still a little tyke. I had thought that the other person who was with was his father, but now it doesn't make sense at all." Zack shrugged.
"Ten years ago…did he say where he was from?"
"Nope. He only mentioned Rocket Town, but I don't think that's where was from initially." Yes, Zack just lied to the director, but something in his gut told him he should't mention Nibelheim.
"The papers he submitted to us say the same. However, I seem to recall an incident around that time. I will have to look it up later, but if I am correct then it would explain how Mrs. Strife hid from us for so long." The director mentally filed away the suspicions for later use. "Anyway, Lt. Fair, have you reached a decision of this collaboration?"
"Yep! I feel motivated now to collaborate with Genesis of all people. Unless, you don't mind of course?" Zack grinned up at the commander, who was now scowling.
"Fine, I'll play nice with the puppy. But don't think for one minute you've won. We have three months to get him into shape. And I say we should let him choose once this is all over."
"Fine with me!"
"I would suggest both of you come up with an excuse as to why you're pushing him. If the other recruits start to think he's won favors of both of you, Private Strife is going to have an ever tougher time." Lazard pointed out.
"I'll just say he's a friend! It's the truth, and I'll invite some of his friends if they need help. Everyone knows I do it all the time with other recruits." Zack was practically beaming.
"I'll pretend I wrote up a punishment to work off his debt, since he is the one who damaged the classroom all by himself." Genesis was smirking, which was never a good sign.
"Don't break the boy, Genesis." Sephiroth warned.
"Sounds like the general has a soft spot for Private Strife. Perhaps I have finally found your boon?" The red commander was close to purring.
"He is nearly ten years younger than I, Genesis. And not to mention a recruit." Sephiroth narrowed his eyes. Still, they both knew the commander was right.
"My friend, your desire is the bringer of life, the gift of the goddess."
"I may be wasting my breath but would you please stop comparing me to that poem, Genesis?"
His only response was the musical sound of laughter. Sephiroth only shook his head. Zack stared between them. He was astonished he had somehow missed the fact Cloud was possibly the reason why these two haven't been as close as they used to. Meanwhile Lazard pretended he did not just overhear the general having interest in a recruit.
=3=
It was the weekend, and since the program was halfway done the company finally allowed the recruits to go out and enjoy the city as another celebration. Perhaps it was the company's way of letting the recruits whatever was pent up in their system out so they can eagerly focus on the task of completing the program. Whatever the case, Cloud was eager to go about with his friends.
What they didn't expect, however, was running into a Turk who was "apparently" off duty.
"Hey, yo! I recognize you lot from that cafeteria incident a few months back." A familiar red headed Turk waved at them.
"What's a Turk doing in the slums?" Xaoli inquired, already suspicious.
"Only place where I can smoke without people tellin' me not to." The Turk shrugged. "Sides, what are you guys doing here? You know the people here don't take kindly to anyone from Shin-Ra, yo."
"Why do you think we're wearing regular clothes?" Carter pointed out. "Besides, we're looking for some guy who sells comics down here."
"Comics? Oh man, haven't laid eyes on one of those since I was a tyke!" The red head grinned. At that, he won Ozzie.
"Then you gotta help us! I'm sure if the rumors are true, the guy has a lot of them." The shortest of the bunch was eager on having a Turk on their side.
"I'm not sure if that's a good idea, Ozzie." Cloud on the other hand, was a little more reluctant. He was positive this was one of the Turks following him. What he found disturbing was the fact the red head was showing himself now, and in front of his friends to boot.
"Aw, c'mon Cloud! He helped us once before, right? If it weren't for him, we'd all have been in a huge fight." Ozzie did have a point, but the blond was not moved.
"But we're training to become a SOLDIER, aren't we? As far as I can see, they don't trust the Turks."
"Meh, it's been that way since the Turks were created, yo. But that doesn't mean some of us can't make friends with you lot off duty, right? So, how about it? I know the slums like the back of my hand, so with my help we'll find this guy who sells books!"
Everyone but Cloud was taken with the idea. Still, the blond accepted the offer like the rest of them but kept a watchful eye on the Turk. Although he had the appearance and attitude of a street rat, he was a smooth talker. Cloud was not fazed about the Turk's inquiries, and instead made a few of his own.
"Okay, if you're so curious, the name's Reno. I can't say how old I am, for my momma didn't keep track of the date I was born. I grew up in the slums. I learned how to steal like the other kids. I was really good at it, too. Then one day I tried to steal from a guy with some fancy suit. Got caught, and instead of being brought to the police he recruited me as a Turk. By the way, are you trying to interrogate me? Cuz that ain't gonna work, yo."
Cloud scowled. "I simply find it suspicious that you happen to be down here. And didn't you just reveal how you became a Turk?"
"I only told you enough to trust me, yo. Why, you still don't trust me blondie? Oh, you wound me so." Blue eyes watered up with fake tears and a pout that was even more ridiculous as Zack's.
"Wait, didn't you have green eyes?" Cloud tilted his head.
"Hm? No, my eyes have always been blue, yo. Are you color blind or something? You should probably check that out. Depending on what colors you have trouble with they won't let you into SOLDIER. Same goes for the Turks."
"I could have sworn they were green, though…"
"Nah, don't worry about it. People always seem to think I have green eyes for some reason. Maybe it's because of the hair. People see it and think, 'My, isn't that the greatest shade of red hair? Green eyes should match that hair, like Christmas!'" Reno grinned.
"Now you're just being a show off." Cloud rolled his eyes.
"Wait until you see how I am in bed." The Turk winked suggestively at the blond, who couldn't hide his blushing.
"Haha! You walked right into that one, Cloud!" Carter slapped the shorter recruit on his back.
Cloud was nearly knocked off of his feet, he hadn't expected that. He sucked in air as the pain in his shoulders intensified. He wasn't aware of concerned voices of the others. His throat constricted as panic began to set in. That slap on the back was the last straw for his wings. They wanted out and they wanted out now.
Without offering any explanation the blond broke away from the group and ran. He didn't know where he was going, he knew he needed to find someplace safe and away from prying eyes and let his wings stretch. He heard familiar voices calling after him, trying to catch up.
But after a few quick turns and zig zags he was sure he lost them. Not even Reno would be able to keep up with his speed and endurance. As he ran Cloud did his best to keep the wings inside, bidding them to wait just a little longer. In his head he recounted safe places under the plate Father made him remember.
The nearest one was the graveyard for trains. It was a long ways off, but it was closer than any of the others. And it was full of monsters too. But Cloud was fast. He could get away from them. And with his wings, he could out fly them as well. He just needed to hold off letting the wings out until then.
'Just a little longer, a little further from now. Almost there.' He repeated these phases like a mantra, concentrating solely on them and making his way closer to the train graveyard.
He nearly tripped and fell a couple times when the citizens didn't see him coming. He heard curses, but no one pursued him. Good, he didn't need to make any side trips. He knew he was getting close to his chosen destination as he encountered less and less people.
Within minutes he came upon the graveyard. He avoided confrontations with ghost like creatures and strange birds and rounded a train lying on its side. Cloud didn't think there would be someone else here, and thus he ran into a solid chest and the smell of leather and musk hit his nose hard.
Still leaning on the tall stranger, he looked up and realized this was no stranger at all. He was so surprised he had lost concentration. Cloud gasped, the sound was a mix of surprise, pain, and relief all in one. His wings sprang out, tearing through his shirt. He will have to find a sweater or replace the shirt with another one. Without his consent his white wings wrapped around the man that was holding him steady.
Cloud held his breath as he stared into those eyes, he couldn't look away. He couldn't break eye contact with those feline mako green eyes. He was so entranced by those eyes that he couldn't even admire the handsome face framed with silver bangs. He whispered the name, forgetting to add the man's rank and title before it.
Of all people he could have run into at this moment, it had to be Sephiroth.
=3=
Shado: Oh yes, I ended it right there. No, your eyes are not deceived, I just love playing with my readers. You all should know by now how I love to abuse cliffe hangers. So much fun.
Someone pointed out that Reno has blue eyes, not green. I apologize. But I don't know if it's just me, but I see his eyes green O.o Maybe I'm color blind and not know it? Or maybe it's wishful thinking, as Reno pointed out here. Anyway, instead of going back to the chapter where Cloud first meets Reno and editing the part, I've decided to just go along with my confusion and make Cloud confused. It's fun to make that adorable chocobo head confused, yes?
On another note, Vincent has returned! And I've set up how the Turks are going to be on his tail. How are they going to catch him? That's my secret for a few more chapters. *Smiles evilly* XP
I've also set up something many of you would recognize. Remember in Crisis Core when it's Sephiroth, Genesis, and Angeal having an epic three way battle? Yep. That's gonna play a part here, too. I just gave them a reason why they're doing a random three way battle. They didn't really explain the reasons behind that battle, other than just for the sake to show exactly when Genesis starts degrading. And perhaps to see three hot, best of SOLDIER up against each other.
As for who's going to mentor Cloud, that's also my secret. For now, it's a collaboration. I've already made my decision long ago. So for those who were hoping Sephiroth take in Cloud, I'm afraid that won't happen DX Thus the reason why I had Lazard make the inquiry. Sephiroth's answer is also mine. In addition, I can't quite see the socially challenged man actually teach someone. In my head it would be awkward, or filled with too much yumminess if he's already in a relationship with Cloud.
Oh, and someone asked if this is going to be a ASZGC pairing. I would formally reply through private message, but alas the reviewer was only a guest so I shall reply here. I apologize, but this is going to be strictly Sephiroth and Cloud story. Though I can't help but think how tempting the other one is, but I can't find enough room in the plot to make it fit. But alas, there are other stories of the lovely foursome.
But that doesn't mean the others can't have a taste of the cute chocobo. *Winks*
I believe that is all. So, please leave a review and scream at me my lovelies~