When Rude met Reno

by Vitalini

Its not easy being a Turk, but what does it take to become one? While Rude is discovering what it really means to be a Turk, Tseng finally thinks he’s found a way to calm a certain redheaded devil causing havoc in the Turk department. Join Rude and....

9. Wake up

Title: When Rude Met Reno
Authoress: Vitalini
Rating: T
Summary: Its not easy being a Turk, but what does it take to become one? While Rude is discovering what it really means to be a Turk, Tseng finally thinks he's found a way to calm a certain redheaded devil causing havoc in the Turk department. Join Rude and many new faces as they come to face the reality that is ShinRa.

Warning: Violence and language if there is anything else I'll warn you about when it comes.

Disclaimer: I only own any original characters and the fic- obviously, apart from that I own naught

Author's note: I'm alive! It's been awhile since I lasted updated but this Chapter was a difficult one and I'm still not sure about it, not even after re-writing three times. This last version is totally different then the original but oh well. I hope you like it anyway.

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"Yo! Morning Sunshine!"

Rude's eyes blinked open, the loud singing voice still ringing in his ear. "W-w-what?" Something soft was tickling his cheek. Turning over he managed to make out the blurred figure of someone hovering over him on all fours. The figures bright red hair glowed like fire in the glaring light.

"This is you wake up call to the dawn of time!" He recognised the familiar voice and had enough self-control not to smirk. Now his eyes were adjusting to daylight he could easily see the lopsided smile in the redhead's face. "Come on! Get moving, yo! Tseng want's to talk ta ya about tonight." It was getting a little annoying, okay painful to have him practical yell down his ear. Not done with the bigger rookie yet, Red bounced off him and began to tug at his hand.

Rude refused to budge; his body was telling him it was too early to rise. But by sheer determination the smaller man managed to drag him half way out of bed, covers and all. Satisfied with his work and heaving loudly from the effort Red let go and scampered off somewhere, leaving Rude to clumsily try to right himself as he clung to the mattress, that last pull had nearly dislocated his arm, what was the kid playing at? Once balanced and unfortunately awake he slowly rubbed the sleep from his eyes and reached for his shades.

"HUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURYUP!"

A violent jolt sent him flying off his precarious perch on the edge of the bed. Angry and in pain he turned round to find a cackling redhead rolling around on his mattress. Having pounced on the bed with his entire might Red had managed to wind himself so his manic laughter came out endearingly wheezy. The larger rookie shook his head at the other's antics. Finding it hard to summon the anger to yell at the scrawny man, he made a playful swipe for him but Red bounced out of the way. Still giggling like an excited child the pest disappeared out the door before Rude could throw a pillow at him. Picking himself up he decided to make an effort to get ready since he wasn't likely to go back to sleep now. Groggily he stumbled to the bathroom where a cold shower awaited him.

Something was nagging at him ever since he realised the bothersome bug that was pulling him from peaceful slumber was Red. Still confused about the unique wake up call he turned on the water, its cold touch causing unpleasant chills to race up his body but also doing wonders to clear the fogginess in his head. Eventually it hit him, along with the recollection of last nights frightening adventure, the mere memory of Scarlett's evil laugh causing chills to run through him deeper than the water could reach. Leaving Red in such a disturbed woman's clutches was nauseating especially since, (he had to admit this,) he'd grown fond of the crazy person. Despite the blatant flaws or just overall imperfect being that Red may be and the small fact that it usually took Rude months to like someone enough to call them a close acquaintance, it was a surprising revelation.

Part from that, what was bothering him was last time he saw the vibrant redhead he'd been unconscious on Tseng's sofa. Now he was suddenly bouncing off the walls, with some sadistic desire to yell into his ear to wake him up at what felt like an ungodly hour. Either everything he'd heard about Hojo was wrong and the scientist was in fact a miracle worker or Tseng had given the rookie a 'Hyper' this morning or hopefully it had just looked worse than it actually was. None seemed likely. He knew the raven haired Turk wouldn't be so irresponsible, he wasn't second-in-command for nothing. A gut feeling was telling him Red hadn't set foot in a lab, not to mention he sorely doubted Hojo was a disguised saint, he had done his research and the paperwork wasn't pretty, the only pretty thing about it was that it was pretty disturbing and that was putting it pretty nicely. As for the last idea, he threw it out the window last night when he'd seen Tseng's body language, he trusted the Turks judgement and from what he saw Red was in a serious state, further evidence to push the reckless use of a 'Hyper' as a the cause out the window.

This left him with the other options that the redhead was a fast healer and just plain mental to begin with, (that seemed more plausible) or the hyperactivity was another side effect, or it could be a mix of both. He really wanted to know what that woman had done to him, but deep down he knew he wasn't going to get any answers any time soon. He contended himself that at least Red was up and running… quite literally.

Stepping out of the shower, feeling refreshed as he dried himself off, Rude wondered about the drama's that may unfold today. He was beginning to feel that the Investigation Division of the General Affairs Department of the Shinra Electric Power Company was perhaps the weirdest part of ShinRa, if his fellow rookies were anything to go by. It always struck him as strange that ShinRa's ruthless assassins had so much personality, but he supposed that if part of the training program had been to kill individuality most would have gone insane. One the other hand, there was no point moulding a load of people into mindless killers before you knew who actually had the skill to become a Turk, was there? The question was would they rely on them to change or would the company do that for them. It had been a long time since he wondered what would become of him and his friends once he entered the darkest realms of ShinRa.

Had it not been for Youji he would have stuck to the SOLDIER program. From past experience and knowledge there was always the hope one could become some kind of hero in that field. As a Turk, well from when he was a child all he'd known of this group was the dark suits, cold eyes and terror, why his bubbly childhood friend wanted to become one of those people remained a bemusing mystery. However, being part of the academy had softened his view of ShinRa.

Brainwashing perhaps?

Anyway, under Youji's suggestion he'd switched to being a Turk trainee after half a year even though at the time he was strongly against it. So why did he change? Simple, he couldn't keep up with the with the sword and gun training, despite having the strength they couldn't drill the skill into fast enough for their liking. Being a Turk was more about intelligence (modesty aside for a second, he did have plenty of that) so he was caught in the middle, the build of a SOLDIER but the mind of a Turk. It hadn't taken that much persuading for him to chose the path of a Turk. At the time he was loathe to admit he actually preferred it. It suited him better and it was, dare he say, everything he'd ever wanted. Now almost a true Turk or more precisely an official rookie his worries of what he was to become were returning and he knew deep down there was a catch. Call him cynical (and he was) but there had to be some negative. However when he saw people like Tabby, John, and Jim striving to succeed to whatever end he couldn't help but remember it was not all bad. Needless to say it took him awhile to dry himself off, tie the towel around his waist and brush his teeth with these thoughts and feelings swimming around inside.

Emerging from the bathroom he made sure he checked what the time was, he liked the assurance of knowing such little things.

I'm going to throttle him!

He couldn't believe it, no wonder he was feeling so crabby. He'd been deprived of over an hour of sleep! That's it when he got hold of that Scrawny little….

However before his murderous thoughts could develop he was distracted by a rather loud alarm going off in the room next door, followed immediately by a startled yelp. Hardly a second past before it happened again, and then again, it was as if everyone's alarms were going off like dominos all down the corridor. Quickly realising what must be going on he found himself silently congratulated the redhead. He only hoped, for his sake, that he did this for a good reason and not as some prank.

Once enough time had gone by and the irritated grumblings had died down, he stuck his head out the door to see what everyone was making of this. The corridor was still poorly lit, the lights would remain dimmed for at least another hour but that didn't stop people wandering about curiously wondering what the heck was going on. Further along the corridor, Jim was talking to the lanky man they had seen yesterday, both looked considerably ruffled and the man with no name appeared to be rubbing the side of his head. Of course, he couldn't hear what they were saying this far down but enough of the others annoyed complaining and dark mutterings drifted over to him. Again, he hoped no one found out Red was behind this.

Restraining the threatening smirk, he glanced down at the lock on his own door. How did he do it? Tracing his dark fingers over the smooth metal, he could see no indication of it being picked even with his trained eyes. When he was first given the room, he had tested how secure these locks were supposed to be by trying to pick them himself. He had little faith in the claim that they were more secure then electrical pin coded locks even if there was the off chance someone could hack or figure out the codes to the room. Failing no matter what method, he could think of and he'd picked a number of locks in his time, therefore making him conclude that the locks were indeed impossible to pick.

Red not only managed to pass their locks but also managed to sneak into all their rooms without anyone detecting him. It had been quite a curious thing to consider how the young male could even be considered Turk material, especially when he was so undisciplined. However, with so much potential and skill how could he be anything but a Turk. The idea he could roam the building like a ghost was more then a little disconcerting.

"Rude!" Looking up he saw Jim limping towards him still dressed in his bed wear. The strained muscle in his calf that had stiffened over night caused his clumsy jog. Sighing Rude pushed his door open a little further to allow the other man entrance while he went to find something to wear.

Jim entered just as he was pulling out a fresh suit. "You're getting changed already! It's only 5:00 a.m. I was planning on going back to bed." To emphasis, his point he promptly collapsed on Rude's vacant bed.

Ignoring the short man, he pulled out his training gear, reconsidering which would be most appropriate. He decided on his training clothes unless Tseng advised otherwise when he went to see him. "Need a potion for that?" he gestured to Jim's sore limb wondering why the man was taking so much interest in his sheets that had been tossed all over the place by Red earlier.

"Huh...Oh, yeah that'd be a good idea I have my own I can use though…erm did you have trouble sleeping last night?"

He'd just grabbed his trainers when he replied, "More of a unusual wake up," then headed for the bathroom again to change while Jim chuckled at his comment.

A few minutes later and pulling on his jumper he emerged from the bathroom, expecting to find Jim dozing on his bed since he'd been oddly quiet. He was still on the bed but it took a moment for Rude to figure out what he was actually doing.

"Why are you smelling my sheets?" he asked off hand putting on his watch.

"I…well err Rude do you have a new cologne, perfume or something because I can smell it on your sheets."

Shrugging he walked over to his friend to drag him unceremoniously off his bed. Jim let out a short squawk of protest just as he hit the floor before smirking evilly, "So I take it you didn't get lucky last night then?"

"You know very well ShinRa doesn't allow unauthorised personal into their apartments." He gave Jim a stern look, showing he was not impressed with his trail of thought.

The other man simply sniggered while awkwardly getting up again as Rude turned off his alarm in case it went off later. "Get changed, Tseng wants to speak to us."

"I forget how you're not a morning person." Jim mumbled, shaking his head so his brown uncombed hair got into his eyes while sounding a little irritable and rubbing his now pained rear. "I thought the meeting was tonight?"

"I was told now." Rude answered opening the door, indicating it was time for him to go. Shooting the taller man a curious look Jim wondered where he'd heard about this but he knew Rude, always a man of few words and currently a unimpressed man of few words wasn't likely to give him a straight answer. He let his questions drop for now, he would find out soon enough.

Once Jim had gone, he decided to sort of the mess that was his bed. He pulled on the soft sheets, adjusting them back into place and airing them out before tucking them in. At one point, he detected the smell Jim had referred to and curiosity made him bring it closer to his face even though he knew it was off Red. Immediately he identified the scent of expensive perfumes and roses from Scarlett's private study. He also caught a whiff of leather and coffee, no doubt from Tseng's office but there was something else, something he couldn't identify but reminded him of an exotic spice and was rather pleasing to his senses. Realising what he was doing he hurriedly pulled the cloth away. Thankful he was alone he quickly finished tidying the bed before opening a window to allow in some 'fresh' air.

Stepping out into the hallway he securely locked his door; no longer sure of what good it would do. Then he made his way through the loitering individuals to Jim's room to wait outside. Watching the others walk by, some stumbling in a half-awake state, he thought over how he never brought himself to really care about the other trainees and he hardly knew their names. Yet he could recall the time the dustbins were to be emptied or when the cleaners were meant to clean their floor. They'd stayed in the same corridor, smiled at each other in passing but never really encaged. He was deemed a classified recluse and he had held that title with pride… until recently. Truth was he never attempted to integrate, never planned to, even after Youji's death he kept his distance and pushed people away. He didn't know what happened during those exams but suddenly he had people who sort his company, who trusted and relied on him just as Youji did making him wondered how he lasted so long without them.

"Hey! You going back to sleep there?" Glancing down he saw Jim smiling at him looking neat and perky. "You didn't have to wait."

"I wanted to." He replied calmly just as a screech caught their attention.

Turning to see a dark haired woman jumping back as flash of red raced passed her yelling out, "Yo, Tseng wants to see you in the common room now!" This time Rude did smirk as Red appeared and went in a swift blur, most likely to scar more people out of bed. At least he didn't have tell everyone else about the meeting now.

"You heard him." He started walking with Jim in toe. Along the way they met Tabby and John, from the sounds of things they had a similar wake up call as well, the kid sure got around. There complains put him in a slightly brighter mood, as usual their chitchat made everything seem normal again.

Today they had no trouble finding where they had to go. The card keys they'd been presented with allowed limited exploration as it was, Rude had found out that the Labs he'd stumbled across weren't the main labs and since they were still on the lower levels of the ShinRa building it was unlikely they would come up across anything important. Still they were enough to get them to where they needed to go for now and the room assigned for them was only two floors up, once they were went passed a few familiar landmarks he really wondered how they ever got lost in the first place, there wasn't very far they could go.

Entering the room there was no sign of Tseng and Rude was again hoping this was not some prank at their expense. Thankfully other rookies had already arrived which gave him reassurance. Admittedly, they'd collapsed in the nearest chairs, one or two remained on their feet but none of them were talking. Voices from the far end of the room drew his attention to the familiar sight of Kyo and Trent, who were again apart from the new recruits. He noticed Red was also with them. After exchanging glances his group decided they would see if they could join the Turks, so made their way over.

"Damn, Milestreak lost again!" the orange haired Turk groaned throwing down the newspaper he had been intently studying when they'd entered.

"Nah, what ya gonna do?" Red sighed slouched in his seat looking and sounding immensely bored.

Trent, who was sitting opposite the others in his own chair added, "Told ya that bird was getting past it's sell by date," this wasn't something Kyo wanted to hear as he started to mutter darkly but his giant friend ignored his typical grumbles and growls. "Who did you bet on Kid?"

Red, who had started cleaning his fingernails with a small pocket knife mumbled, "Alboltross," in answer.

"What!" Kyo bolted up in his seat like someone had electrocuted him, "You lucky sonofva…" However, he stopped mid curse when he finally spotted the rookies heading their way.

Red who'd given him a strange look followed his gaze, as did Trent who brightened at the sight of them. "Looks like we got some more company."

The big man raised a hand in greeting, signalling it was okay for them to come over and sit with them. Red, who'd been somewhat spread out shifted to make room on the two seated sofa allowing Jim to squeeze in while the others pulled up chairs as they were made welcome. A few jibs and wise cracks later they settled down.

"You're lively this morning." John stated, earning a smile from Trent when Kyo gave a sarcastic snort to the comment.

"At this ungodly hour? I do not think so." Everyone sniggered as Kyo yawned after making his point.

"That's what ya get for staying up late, yo." Red replied, "Ya lot have a good time then?"

Tabby nodded enthusiastic as the redhead's comment sparked more conversation as they relived their eventfully night out. From the sounds of things, Jim was going to have a few more things to live down after last night. Rude smirked as he listened to the talk, trying to visualise what he'd missed out on. He glanced at Red who appeared to be intrigued by their banter and smiling along with everyone else, his eye lighting up every now and then, as if nothing serious had happened to him at all. It made Rude wonder even more about his own adventure last night.

"See what you missed out on big guy," Jim finally said, "Oh by the way did your find your watch?" In answer, Rude showed the item and waited for the next question. "So what took you so long?"

"I got lost again." As he hoped, they took it at face value and cracked a few jokes at his expense. He glanced over at Red again only to find the single narrowed orb focused on him looking slightly confused because he knew Rude was lying. Maybe it was a good moment to change the subject, "What were you looking at before?"

"The newspaper?" Trent asked and Rude nodded, "Just put a few bets on the Chocobo races."

Jim with his usual tact blurted out "So you lost?" He directed his question at Kyo but it was more of a statement since winners didn't usually have faces liked a sour pickle. Naturally, he earned himself a glare.

"Just his usual luck." Trent laughed but moved back in his seat at least his friend went to throw something at him again. However, Jim wasn't listening, he'd ducked behind Red to avoid Kyo's death glare and seemed to be quite taken with the redhead's suit. "You have a cold?" Trent observed as Jim made another sniffling noise. Red tried to move away.

"Huh? No I just smelt something familiar…" he smelled Red's suit again getting more queer looks as his face contorted while he tried to figure something out. Rude shifted uneasily, knowing what Jim was about to say next. "…I got it!" he clicked his fingers and elaborated, "I smelled the kid on Rude's sheets…wait a minute you two didn't?"

Good Gaia! Smacking his hand to his forehead and then shaking his head in disbelieve the taller man replied, "Must everything go that way in you head?"

"What?" Jim defended, "he smells just like your sheets did!"

Kyo and Trent had looks on their faces showing they had no idea what to think and Red who, was freaked out by having Jim smell him, was inching away from him even more. Thankfully, Tabby just sighed and John shook his head sadly too used to Jim's one-track mind even to entertain his suggestion.

"Forgive him," John started, "His dad and brother were…well gay and he is a little obsessed but you get used to it." He shrugged to show it wasn't such a big deal even though they knew it was slightly more complicated than that but there was no need to go into detail about it.

"I'm right here!" Jim grumbled. "I did have valid evidence…"

"And the mind of a sewer rat," Tabby finished off. "I'm sure there is an innocent reason behind your evidence."

Taking his queue to set Jim straight Rude confirmed, "He woke me up this morning." He was not sure if he should call the redhead Red since it wasn't his name and it seemed like flimsy nickname anyway. It just was wrong in his head but he'd never been one for nicknames.

"What was he doing in your room hmm?" It was fairly obvious that no one was taking him seriously but Jim pressed his point.

Red who was recovering from coughing fit, Rude noted he'd had quite a few since they'd arrived, elaborated in a slightly raspy voice, "same thing I was doing in ya room." He cleared his throats and continued without the rasp, "But I think you were up to somehin' a little more interest, if da limp o' yours is anything to go by, yo."

"W-w-what!" Jim spluttered, his skin going a bright shade of pink, "I got the limp in training, why what were you thinking?"

The redhead was snickering behind his hand at the older rookie's reaction. "Nuthin'" He replied innocently, "Why ya getting' so defensive, yo? I know an old timer like you ain't gonna get no action. Ya got somethin' else ta hide?"

Not really understanding what Red was trying to accomplish with that Rude watched as his friend bristled, though what annoyed him more remained debateable. He certainly was struggling to come up with comeback. Red cocked his visible brow in anticipation for the answer, smirking to goad Jim on. Maybe he was just enjoying putting the poor man on the spot because now the whole group was waiting for his answer. Rude might have felt sorry for him but he was enjoying the playful suffering Jim was going through and it seemed like a more rewarding revenge then chasing the man through shrubs and trees.

Anyway after a minute or two of Jim sweating and going even redder between anger and embarrassment he finally blurted out, "What do you mean old timer!"

Of course every one laughed, except Rude who grinned which counted as a laugh for him. "You're so slow, man." John reached over to pat John's shoulder, "must be losing your touch in your old age."

"You're so funny I forgot to laugh." Despite his words, Jim was no sourpuss and even he began to smile. Rude couldn't help but feel it was wrong for them to be so happy.

Why? Well he wasn't stupid or deluded, he knew what this job entailed and even if it did have a lower mortality rate then Guards or SOLDIERS, there was still a high chance that'd they'd end up dead in the next five years, though there was also the kidnappings and murder that apparently went on. During his training, he'd learnt a lot, had a lot of his old hopes and ideals trashed but had carried on this course for the sake of another, in doing so come to terms what he was possibly letting himself in for but he knew he was not getting the whole picture. In short, they would not be smiling for much longer.

"Joking besides," Tabby said then addressed the seniors, "Since you're here does that mean Tseng really does want to see us." She gave Red a nervous glance but he didn't appear offended in fact he'd picked up the discarded the newspaper proceeded to be engrossed in it, something Rude found not quite right, it appeared out of character to the redhead even though he hardly knew him. As for Tabby's queries that was perfectly justifiable since Red seemed the type to pull practical jokes at others expense. He had no problem upsetting higher officials, and so what was waking them all up. The repercussion couldn't be any worse. Fighting his fellow rookies would be appealing to what had happened to him in that study, whatever had happened. That and Rude wasn't about to let the little redhead fend himself along against the rest, his conscious wouldn't let him.

"Wait a minute," Jim blurted out just as Trent was about to answer, "You reset our alarms!"

What away to disrupt his mental thinking, Rude thought as Red applauded Jim's realisation with slow sarcastic claps. Still it was a good thing to concentrate on the now, even if the chair was inviting him to take a short doze.

"…Anyway," Trent started, "Tseng phoned us to come here and wait so I guess that means he does want us here."

"We think it's to do with it being started earlier and to save even more time they're giving the instructions now instead of tonight." Kyo elaborated sounding distinctly bored with the whole affair all of a sudden.

"What's it?" the old rookie didn't know when to shut up but from the looks of things this was a question that had been brought up during last night, that is if the eye rolling as anything to go by.

"Jim shut up; it's too early for that." John begged from where he was laid back in his own chair, "Just wait and see."

"Yeah, like we keep telling you it's a surprise." Trent pressed, sounding tired himself.

"Well you could give us a hint, something to help us guess and pass the time by."

Red sniggered and patted Jim on the head in a manner an adult would do to hush a child, "Don't worry the suspense ain't gonna last long, yo." He stated absentmindedly, "Tseng'll be here in a minute."

True to Red's word, Tseng walked in almost a minute later. However, they didn't realise at first and Rude couldn't see since his back was to the entrance, but he got their attention by coughing loud enough to waken even those that had fallen asleep. Two other people had followed him in. One was the woman they'd come across yesterday, Arisa and the other was a stranger. Rude guessed the stranger was another senior since he followed Arisa towards his group.

Something told Rude he'd be seeing more of this man so he paid extra attention to his appearance so he could recognise him in the future. The first thing that came to mind of Reeve Tuesti, the head of urban development, it wasn't like he'd met Reeve before but he'd seen a photo of him and there was something very similar in their appearances only this man looked taller, stronger and more deadly. That and he was blonde and had more hair in general that wasn't sleeked back as was custom of official's (even Palmer who hardly had any hair seemed to have the bits of turf sticking out of his scalp pushed hopelessly back, the man hadn't heard of gel obviously.) The man's shoulder length hair was pulled back in a loose pony hair and his suit was commendably smart. That combined with the way he held himself gave him a refined and proud air. As the man got closer, Rude noted the man's hair wasn't blond but a light sandy brown streaked with natural golden highlights, his eyes compliments his hair, brown with amber speckles. Although he did have unusually thick eyebrows, which would make him easier to identify from a respective distance. More importantly, he noted the man way the man moved and the way he conducted himself. He was definitely the oldest and most experienced of the senior Turks they'd come across, excluding Tseng and Veld naturally. There was strength and wisdom to behold in him and Rude found himself respecting him already.

"Hey Kitty, how's it going?" Red grinned as he jumped off the sofa and onto the floor, making room for the woman to sit next to the annoyed ginger haired Turk.

"That pun is getting old now." The man answered like a father softly reprimanding a child that doesn't understand what they are doing wrong.

"I ain't simple, yo." The redhead still sounded amused, "I just know ya don't like it, but I think it suits you."

The man sighed in defeat, "You have the strangest tastes. Speaking of which what is with this 'yo' business I thought ending every other sentence with those nonsensical phrases, 'zo to' and 'yo to' were bad enough."

"Want me to stop, yo?" Red smirked flashing a cheeky grin at the senior Turk who appeared equally amused by the conversation.

"Would you tell me what they mean?"

"They don' mean nuthin' just habit." Red explained waving his hands a bit.

"I see and what about that slum drawl? Could you explain why you have started putting 'yo' in your sentences as well?" The new man pressed sitting himself on Tabby's armrest and for some reason she blushed.

"Okay, okay I'll stop with da 'yo' then." Red pouted playfully but he didn't seem bothered after all he still ended the sentence with that 'zo to' which made the whole sentence sound funny but they were already used it, in fact Rude had until the man pointed it out been mentally ignoring the strange speech pattern after he'd first noticed it.

"He's a case isn't he Lyon." Trent nodded at Red and they shared a knowing look.

"Indeed he is," Lyon replied calmly, "Though I can't wait to see the rest in action as well."

"Yeah, this year is going to be interesting wouldn't you say?" Trent continued, stretching casually in his seat. Rude however was suddenly too busy staring at Lyon that he tuned out the rest off the conversation. Tabby liked this man, liked him to such a degree that it bordered on idolism and a high school girls crush. Well no wonder John kept shooting her those looks. No wonder she was currently brighter than a beetroot.

"If you're all listening," Tseng left a dramatic pause to glare pointedly at their group. Instantly all the careless smiles vanished and they propped themselves up to better see and hear their commander. All except Red, who was still spread lazily across the floor, the cocky smile tucking at the side of his mouth but he was looking at Tseng and paying attention, "I would like to get started. I understand this is sudden however due to the circumstances the department believes that you need to be briefed earlier than originally planned. Although, we hadn't planned it being this early." Tseng shot another look at their group, or more specifically, the redhead who held up a sheepish 'V' sign.

Naturally a few other glares were shot in their direction, since they were sitting down they couldn't see the redhead but they knew someone in their group was to blame for getting them out of bed. The man sprawled across the floor merely coughed again and pretended to give the raven-haired man his full attention when he continued.

"As you may be aware there is an event, a recent tradition if you like, which you will be partaking in tonight. Since there are so many of you this year, we will be starting it early. There is some discussion still over whether a time limit should be put in place, when it is decided we will inform you. Until then we will give you instructions on what will be expected of you." He smiled offering a small form of comfort, "Don't worry, the procedures are quite simple, though the event itself it quite big. In fact, it's most looked forward to by those closely associated to the President outside the company and all within. Once it is over I'm sure you'll all find the work worth it."

"Get on with it," Red called over now lying horizontally on the floor, "Sir." He added as an after thought. His rudeness was not reprimanded instantly as they would expect, leaving the other rookies perplexed.

"Certainly," Tseng nodded, "I gather holding you in suspense any longer is an unnecessary torment on your already frail nerves." He glanced at a number of particular individuals that appeared more apprehensive then most, not surprising when you considered how much had been thrown at them already. Though they were said to be official Turks now none of them believed it possible quite yet, it was strongly thought that tonight's event was in fact the final test, which was quite true. "This evening you will all participate in Tournament…."

"A tournament! As in a fighting tournament?" A small woman chirped up, her friend, the dark haired female for earlier pulled her back into the seat they were sharing away from the annoyed glares from those that didn't appreciate the interruption.

"Good job I got ya all up early, yo." Red muttered, "If it carries on like this then we'll be here awhile, not that I mind though." Jim gave the young man another venomous glare; Rude knew full well how the old rookie liked his 'beauty sleep'.

"Yes, it is a fighting tournament…." Tseng didn't sound happy about the interruption but he expected as much.

"Will we be judged?" another young gentleman in a floppy hat inquired.

"See what I mean, yo." The redhead smirked at Rude when he said this. Rude felt inclined to nod in agreement.

"Yes…"

"Can we use our weapons?"

"Yes"

Rude cringed at the excited look on the man's face. Rude was vaguely aware that he specialised in bombs and other explosive devises. Rude had always had an interest in explosives, though not enough to have them as a weapon of choice. Unfortunately for him and many others this gave the man a huge advantage over them and no one looked please, not even Jim who technology was better off then most but as training always provided, so long as the person could dodge the bullets a gun wasn't much use. Bombs that was different, if they engaged in close combat he could sneak small explosives on your person, or plant huge bombs it'd be hard to kept up. If Rude's memory served him well, then this man who wore big circular glasses was not only an expect with making bombs but also was skilled enough with hand to hand combat to survive close range fighting and use it to his advantage.

"However all types of ammunition or explosive weapons will be replaced with safer alternatives that are used in normal training." Tseng assured the worried rookies.

"Will we get killed?" Tabby mumbled, fear creeping into her voice.

Lyon rested a strong hand on her delicate Shoulder but his words were loud enough for everyone in the room to hear, "No one will die, we're not fighting to kill." His rich deep voice calmed her nerves slightly; she wasn't the only one to relax.

"Will…." Someone started up they were quickly cut off by a rather annoyed growl from Red who'd shot up.

"Shut up will ya and let the man talk. Geez he'll tell ya everything if ya let him get a word in." This instantly quietened all those about to ask something themselves. However, it earned him a few more dark glares. Not that it mattered to Red especially when Tseng viewed him with a more favourable eye despite his blatant lack of manners.

"Thank you," The second-of-command acknowledged, his own patience had been wearing thin but it was fortunate that the redhead lost his temper before he did, though the amount of authority in his tone had been surprising for the other rookies it was more than pleasing for Tseng who was reminded of what a promising individual he was despite everything else. Not that he'd ever let on that he thought such things, certainly when so few other had such high hopes for the 'ruffian' of the company. "As I was saying, this is a fighting tournament which will be used to demonstrate your skills and all that you have learnt up until that point and you will do this by going against everyone in his room, excluding myself." There was a pause were the rookies glanced at the seniors who all sported menacingly sweet smiles and disconcertingly friendly waves. "It is not elimination, if you are injured there will be a injure room where you will be treated immediately to full health. I will be present to make sure you don't come to any serious harm though I imagine the respect between all of you will prevent my intervention from being necessary."

Rude noticed the sparks between Marko and John as soon as Tseng mentioned everyone having to go against everyone else, there would certainly be a grudge match to worry about and though John had improved greatly over the years whether he was a match for his more skilled brother was still uncertain. John, though still having a low self esteem liked to think he could at least give his elder sibling a run for his money. Rude always refused to give an opinion on the matter, except for him to train hard so as not to make his hopes too high by encouraging him too much. Personally Rude was thankful Tseng, possibly the sharpest man in the company, was standing by. Marko would not hold back on his younger sibling and he liked John in one piece. As for fighting everyone in the room, that worked out at over 400 fights in total. The night was certainly going to be a long one; he got tired just thinking about it.

"As you maybe aware, the number of matches seems vast but the President feels there is no point changing the rules though we are used much smaller groups as a passing event before the President retires to the party that follows. As a result, he is turning it into a much grandeur affair this year; there is the possibility that the time the party will be held may be changed. Many of the fights may not last long, five minutes is often the average but some of you are more equal in skill so it may take longer, therefore a time limit maybe placed on earlier matches. That is just to clarify some trivial matters. There will be three rounds." Tseng paused for breathe and allowed them to absorb all he'd said so far then set off again. "The first round will be you demonstrating your skills by fighting against each other. The next round will be the senior Turks demonstrating there skills in a similar fashion. Finally you will each go against each of the Turks in turn though you will have the advantage since you have a short resting period."

The Turks smiled innocently again, though Arisa and Kyo, were glaring at each other instead.

"What if we beat one of the Turks?" Marko asked. Rude rolled his eyes behind his shades, he had a feeling that was coming up and it was no surprise that the bigheaded rookie was the one to bring it to attention. Red suddenly burst out laughing at this question, receiving an annoyed scowl from the number one pupil. More coughing quickly interrupted the laughter, which the youth desperately tried to cover with his hand. Tseng shot him a concerned look but made nothing of it. His reaction led Rude to watch Red more closely, the images of last night coming back.

"Depending on who it is then you may become their partner, then again if a particular person is requested by a Turk then they may be that Turks partner instead. I hope you understand this is reasonably new tradition and is used for the executives of this company to monitor your skills and level. Your representing this department as well as yourselves, don't let us down. That's all you need to know, however if anyone has any private concerns feel free to ask." As he said this, he looked on each of them in turn making sure they took in every word.

Indeed, they had many concerns more than he'd first appreciated. The first question was when it would start but Tseng replied that the time had yet to be confirmed but they'd be informed well in advance when it was decided. His patience was out doing itself, Veld would be proud. Tseng was being kinder to them than he normally would on account on talking to them at such a tender hour for most people and the daunting prospect that awaited them this evening, the least he could do was deal with their avalanche of questions.

Unfortunately, their mounting questions and anxiety caused the volume to rise considerably high and Red was soon complaining of a headache. Rude's group were content to stay in their places, being at the far end they felt separate to the main group. No that it mattered; none had the desire to join the others as they bombarded their boss with concerns.

"The Boss is taking a hounding today," Trent commented reaching over to ruffle Red's head as he nursed his temples. "Then again I was expecting it to be worse than this, they really don't tell you a lot because most of it's last minute adjustments depending on the turn out of who's watching and their timetable."

"You mean this whole tournament is just some rich man's evening entertainment?" Jim asked, sounding a little disgusted.

Arisa sighed and nodded, "Like Tseng said it only started recently, a year or two after ShinRa went to war with Wutai I think. It's the Presidents way of showing off the strength of the company and his military force, if you like and an excuse for a business get together." She didn't sound too bothered by it, though having gone through the system herself in a much smaller group it hadn't been such a big deal then.

"Still 400 fights in he first round then possibly a 100 in the third plus the 15 in the second." Kyo calculated, "you'd think the President would make it a knock out tournament so the top of the first two rounds go against each other in the third." He conclusion was met with much agreement but his unofficial rival was more than keen to point of its follies.

"That would defeat the entire point," she began, interrupting John's encouragement to suggest such a thing to Tseng. "Everyone in this room has particular strengths and weaknesses, this time the variety is greater than ever before. Part of the purpose of this exercise to learn more of our limits, a poor match will result in a person feeling they are inferior to the rest when that mayn't be the case. The idea is that we know what we can overcome while being humbled by our own downfalls; it is not a competition. More of a learning exercise. In short it's a test to see if you can adapt to any situation and ability thrown your way and to learn how to defeat any opponent. At a time when the future of the company remains uncertain the department needs to know it's new recruits are up to scratch." When she finished she quickly took in a mouthful of air, long speeches had never been her forte though she was by no means a woman of few words.

Kyo, annoyed by the fact she'd pointed out something he already knew and that she'd taken his proposal so serious that he now appeared ignorant, clapped sarcastically. "Congratulations, that was your longest speech on record, but we're aware of all that. You didn't seriously think I was going to take it up with the superior." He shook his head then added as an after thought, "and it's already a foregone conclusion ShinRa's going to win the war."

"I'm glad you're amongst the few with such ignorant believes. An attitude like that could cost you." She folded her arms, clearly not fond of the discussion. His attitude was insulting and her frustration was rising but she was unable to let him score a point against her and Kyo was feeling the same. Such characteristics Rude viewed with interest and wondered if the qualities of their person would be damaging to them.

"What? you think Wutai could possibly win. They can hardly use Materia and when Sephiroth gets back on the field their army of farm hands won't stand a chance." Kyo sounded very sure of this but Arisa wouldn't let him indulge in the feeling.

"Sephiroth is hardly dispatched to Wutai; Hojo is still doing whatever he has to do on him. As for your farm hand comment, the war has been going on for years, if ShinRa is so elite why have we not beaten them already."

Trent finally tiring of their tempers cut in before Kyo could say anything, "ShinRa is a growing company so we are just as vulnerable. Actually considering that's it the company against a entire country and rival businesses were not really in a favourable position. On the positive side we are superior in many more ways and the SOLDIER training is producing some great candidates and the companies economic success as well as other exploits," he gave the other seniors knowing looks, "the rival companies are more of a nuisance or ignorable presence."

Lyon smiled, "Soundly put though we're boring the fresh men and women," he shot Tabby a warm smile, "with this political talk. May I propose a lighter topic of discussion?"

"I second that!" Red said forcible silenced by another coughing spurt, wiping his hand with a tissue when he was done. "I don't like it when ya all start talkin' fancy, ya get enough o' that from da higher ups."

A hearty chuckle from Trent greeted his comment and the red hair was once again vigorously rustled. Red responded by attacking the big man's shins with the newspaper. "You'd do well to take a leaf out of our books and start speaking properly; coming from the slums is not something you advertise." Trent advised though his tone was far from stern and Rude was once again observing the fond regard Red was held by the others.

"I'm just speakin' naturally; being formal takes too much effort so you guys wanna cut the act out now?"

"Its no act," Lyon assured the young man, "When you discuss certain topics you speak of them with the respect and air they are due." The blonde man was smiling slightly as he spoke with a purposely-pompous air that fooled no one; in fact, they immediately began snickering.

"So if we change topics to say flirtin' rights over ya new eye candy there," he nodded at Tabby who shrank back blushing into her hand, "we can be as crude as we like, right?"

If Red had meant to make an attack on the man, it was not taken as one for Lyon remained in good humour and even resting his hand on her shoulder as he continued to smile more broadly, "I wouldn't say that. And what is this about flirting rights?"

"You know, since she's ya girl now is she off limits to flirtin' or are you gonna give me the honour, man." It was strange how the redhead could abuse such refined phrases with his rough tongue, that smirk on his face only making his suggestion that much less agreeable.

Lyon apparently used to Red rolled his eyes then said, "I would not approve" but in a tone that suggested he knew the younger man would flirt no matter what he thought. Red simply snorted and coughed a bit more.

The other seniors though aware of Lyon's obvious attraction to Tabby since he had no qualms in displaying his affections openly, had quietly promised to dissuade his affections until she was settled as a Turk. Relationships were strongly discouraged in the company it only led to problems. They knew Lyon was wise enough not to be so foolish but he was also a headstrong individual, traditional and proud. It was unfortunate he'd fallen head over heels for the plain rookie, not that he would do anything improper but as friends they'd warn him anyway. In the mean time, he was now open game to tease and poke at in the open.

"Lyon your so forward, give the girl some space," Arisa scolded, "Let her have some fun and sample what there is to offer before you smother her entirely." Her words were rewarded with a brighter blush to Tabby's cheeks and Lyon stiffening.

"I have no intention of smothering her," Lyon then quickly tried to change the direction of the conversation as Arisa looked ready to contradict him, "so do you have any concerns about tonight?"

"Yeah," Red raised his hand, "If I damage ya bride ta be will ya kill me?" The others laughed and Lyon replied with the affirmative. "In that case when on you kitten's getting' married?"

Lyon simply scowled, such a prospect, as much as he desired it, was not an option which only made him desire it more. Kyo sensing Lyon's turn quickly moved to more immediate issues. "Seriously you guys want to tell us about anything you're worried out, how about you big guy?" He looked at Rude who immediately felt thrown into the spotlight.

"I don't know what weapons the other's use, nor their style and as I don't use a weapon I'm at a disadvantage." He stated honestly causing some frowning.

"Well not much we can do to help you there, just watch and learn I guess, but that's what it's all about really. As for being weapon less, it's never done me any harm." Trent shrugged and grinned, "so long as you're good at what you do you can over come any obstacle." That sounded so profound Rude wondered if he had read it in a book.

"How about you Jimmy boy?"

Jim, who been silent for some time since he'd been absorbing their valuable information thought for a moment, "Guess the number taking part is daunting not that you can do anything about that."

"Nope," Arisa cheerfully agreed, "But you can pace yourself."

"Okay John, worried about anything?"

John, who had been mediating on his private concern since the Tournament was mention, replied miserably, "My brother."

His friends shoulders sagged, they'd been expecting as much. The sibling rivalry between Marko and John had been renowned at the academy, though he tried to make light of it, the fact he was considered inferior to his brother in every way bothered him constantly. It was not uncommon for his expression to change for carefree to one that mirrors the cold when a cloud passed over the sun in seconds. Such an attitude often plagued and hindered him when he needed to be the most positive and vigilant, in the past it often resulted in him failing tests.

Equally, Arisa who had read his file and knew the history but not the origin of this private competition between the siblings as well as storied she had heard from associates, eyed him sadly. She had insisted Lyon take him in his team since the man was known for helping those with confident issues or at least getting them through difficult situations and death on their final trainee mission was never a possibility in her opinion. She was intrigued as to the reasons for the deep-rooted rivalry but Lyon advised her not to pry. Being as Lyon was older and therefore wiser she respected his judgement, not even his friends knew what to do about that problem.

"You know John," Tabby reluctantly broke the silence, she'd hoped the Turks would have some advise but most were biting their lower lips. For them it was too sensitive topic to probe, but Tabby had to deal with it enough and actually thought this was John's chance to get over the self-imposed physiological barrier. "Maybe your just letting your nerves get to you."

"It's not that. I've accepted the fact I'll most probably be beaten by every other person in this room but I just can't stand another defeat against him. I'm already a failure with out him rubbing it in my face." John ran a hand over his face.

"Don't be like that, I'm sure there is something you're better at than your brother." Jim had tried this tact before but it had been months ago. John had improved greatly since then but his answer remained the same.

"No. I'm not as fast, he'd smarter than me, sharper, stronger, more determined. I just can't compare. I'm the total opposite."

One would find his hopelessness frustrating, viewing him as a quitter and Kyo certainly looked ready to belt him one. Rude knew John would and always had tried every possible way to up his game but no matter how hard he tried, Marko just surpassed him. It was heartbreaking in a way to see someone you care for tear themselves up in every sense, to the point that admitting his brother got to him even though he preferred to keep that part of him private. John would always push people's assurances aside, Rude had never assured him only advised and encouraged his training during their short acquaintance, to which John responded better. Rude half-believed John humbled himself so passionately to get the stimulus to better himself, accepting that he could be better would destroy his modesty which he needed to get stronger. John, whether it true or not, believed he was less a person than Marko that it'd set in his mind and now impaired him to the degree that no matter how good he was his mentality would always stop him doing his best when competing against his brother.

"Look you know Jim how much I've trained and I've still never come close to him. I'm not graceful and I'm clumsy. I'm just…"

"You," Red finished for him dragging the attention onto him, "And not your pigheaded brother."

Finally, John cracked a short-lived smile, "Pigheaded but talented."

"So what does that make ya?"

John had no reply to that but the others were more than willing to fill the gap with praise. Tabby admired his control over his daggers, something she insisted she'd yet to achieve with her staff and that she was envious of his abilities. Jim backed her up re-living his finer moments of the exam and the conversation quickly changed. The more talkative rookies threw praise at each other while simultaneous bringing up their own faults.

"Gee you guys have lots a faults, ya honestly good at anything" It was clear the Red was only playing with them but Jim was quick to praise the others.

"Yeah both Tabs and Johnny boy here are faster than me no matter what they say. John goes on about how slow he is and he doesn't consider how he damages me by saying such things."

"I imagine a lot o' things are faster than ya Gramps." Naturally, Jim scowled but Red was still playing with him.

"The kids right," Arisa joined in, "there's no point in concentrating on your faults unless you're going to do something about them. For now just focus on what you can do."

" If your still believing your going to fail and make a complete idiot of yourself then you're probably right," Red said, "but if ya thinking that you'll make it through and it wouldn't be so bad then you'd right about that too."

Kyo who'd been listening with some growing amusement clarified Red's meaning for the bemused rookies, "Basically believe in your selves and things might turn out the way you want them to." Trent agreed glad to put that matter to rest but Red insisted on the last word.

"If it's any consolation, I like you better."

John already in good humour again smiled while looking between Rude and Red. Rude had told him similar things, always meant the same sentiment, that it was better to be him than try and be something he was not. Usually he'd twisted his big friend's good intentions into criticism which wasn't hard due to the way Rude tended to talk. Having Red agree in a manner liking childish innocence that refused any argument finally made him entertain everything that Rude had said to him. Rude's advice had always been the most valuable to him but now he viewed them with less a clouded mind. He saw their clarity and meaning like crystal and it actually sank in for once. Maybe he could actually give Marko a run for his money.

Rude seeing this from a different perspective noted the challenge in Red's eye, as he looked John up and down. The redhead had the intelligent idea of addressing John's competitive side in a wisely chosen subtle manner, a mere look and the bait was set. Now though John preferred to believe he'd been persuaded by Red's strong faith in him it was as Rude just thought the challenge of surpassing himself was more appealing and was a clever move. Rude knew he could not have issued such a thing in a more successful manner. He directed his attention to the younger man and they exchanged a wink, (a cough) and a nod to congratulate themselves.

After the long-winded affair, everyone was in higher spirits and felt relaxed enough to dwell on their own meditations for a bit while eavesdropping on the others in the room. It was during this time that Red began to cough more frequently and violently, gaining everyone's attention, which he shook off persistently and they didn't want to pursue the matter as he grew more irritable. It wasn't until he began making noises like a cat choking that they dare disrespect his wishes of 'being left alone' and Arisa moved in. She'd barely started to get up when he suddenly bolted over the sofa and disappeared behind a door not far from the closet he'd hidden in yesterday. A pause then a loud retching sound followed. The door shut.

"…I'll go check on him." Kyo sighed, slowly getting to his feet and stretching.

"You could show a little more concern." Arisa scolded, she was also standing and had the same idea in mind.

He simply glared at her and marched off in the direction of the door. They waited in silent anticipation when he knocked on the door. There was no reply. He tried to open it but it was locked. He stepped back and in own fluid motion, so fast they didn't realise what happened, until the door burst open in with a startling bang as it succumbed to his force immediately. Now the whole room was silent but Kyo merely walked inside and shut the door behind him.

Looking round the rest of the room now, Rude noticed Tseng was no longer there, an observation Lyon had also made. Standing up he addressed the man sitting nearby, the one in the floppy hat. "Thatch, where is Tseng?"

It took a moment for the man to respond, "I-I don't know. Eden had something he needed to ask in private and they left." He sounded nervous.

"Was there something you needed to ask?" Lyon gave Thatch a stern look that only made the man more nervous.

"I-I…N-No."

"So are you waiting for someone?" The man looked round the room then shook his head perhaps not trusting himself not to stutter again. "Then I suggest you get back to training and stop gawking. Get working on that weak lunge of yours unless you want the insides beaten out of you." He gave the poor man a friendly slap on the shoulder. Thatch stumbled and he quickly hurried to the training room his black and white hat swaying with his straw locks.

"You shouldn't do things like that; they're not Grunts." Trent said as more followed Thatch out the room least hey were singled out as well.

"I am aware of that, but we all need guidance I was merely advising him….more forcibly then perhaps I should but they will be considered insubordinates and treated like such for some time, that's just the way things go. As for my advice it is merely the same as what you and Kyo did yesterday, I have every right to try and toughen them up."

"I hope you didn't treat them like that on their last trainee mission." Trent knew of the older Turks well enough to guess he did, but then there were few Lyon didn't treat as younger and less able then he and he had every right to even if he was not that old himself. As a wise man once said it's not age that brings wisdom but what is learnt during whatever time on this earth you'd had.

"I merely guided them on the best course to take, to make sure they didn't mess up. Perhaps if you'd made more effort to do like wise you wouldn't have to repeat the assignment."

"Had I done anymore it would have gone against the whole point. Also it wasn't a walk in the park job even you would have struggled. Don't get me wrong I did try and hint towards the correct course of action." The large Turk pointed out.

"If it was such a difficult job shouldn't that have given you more incentive to make your views known?"

"Not my fault we had an idiot that thought he knew better." Trent mumbled under his breath.

"Still you can't berate me for establishing some familiarity with my co-workers can you?"

"They're your co-workers now?" Trent sounded playfully incredulous, " I've known you longer yet I still don't get the benefit of such a title."

Before Lyon could respond in an equally teasing manner Arisa butted in, "Are you two playing with each other or just being jackasses?"

"Being playful Jackasses naturally," Trent grinned but said no more since Kyo had emerged looking considerably paler. There was a red stain on his open shirt.

The ginger haired Turk walked over to Lyon, whispered something in his ear then announced he was going to get Tseng. Before they had time to ask what was going on he had already left. Lyon also ignoring their inquiries strode to the smaller room, which Rude hoped was a bathroom. He disappeared behind the door, shutting it behind him; there was a huge dint in the woodwork.

"I'm guessing his condition is a worse then he was making out." Jim ventured but was rewarded with a sarcastic 'go figure' from Arisa. The seniors had stood up during the exchange between Lyon and Kyo but now didn't know what to do with themselves. Rude who had yet to move and inch from his place or speak a word observed the fretting of Tabby who couldn't stand the thought of one of their own in pain. It wasn't long before each ventured to the door but all were shooed away by Lyon. John who'd in the short time grown an attachment to Red tried twice.

In the end, Arisa contented herself by grilling Trent about anything that could have caused it. Of course, the rookies listened intently, Tabby and John were now sharing the couch with Jim. Arisa was sitting closer to Trent, and their voices were lower then before. Rude remained were he was, forgotten for the time being. Being closer to the Turks then the others, he caught more of the conversation.

…

"There was some drama yesterday involving Scarlett…" Trent whispered as if offering a possible reason.

"Yeah, I heard about that. You don't think-"

"That wouldn't be allowed." Trent assured her but he mirrored her concerned tone.

"Don't give me that shit, The President doesn't care and he's the only one she has to answer to."

Trent scratched the back of his neck, "Surely she wouldn't, the kid was already in no condition…any little thing would have…to do that would be…he'd be-"

"Don't say it. I would put nothing past the bitch. Tell me why was she mad at him." Arisa flickered her eyes in Rude's direction aware he could hear every word.

"A trivial matter as usual, less than what he did to her car." Trent replied coolly also giving the others the once over and contemplating asking them to leave though he knew they'd come to be concerned for the redhead's well being so wouldn't and he wasn't going to leave without finding out what was wrong with him, if only Kyo would hurry up.

"We should wait for Tseng's return then." Arisa sighed, "Though I doubted he'd tell us anything, it's not our place to know."

"Whose place is it then?" Trent counted half-heartedly though Arisa didn't answer him. Instead, she turned back to the rookies.

"Sorry about that. I guess I should ask you if you're looking forward to the evening." Her tone was full of false brightness that fooled no one. Rude, watching everyone from his seat mirrored the morning to that of a badly scripted pantomime.

"No." she almost laughed at the expected answer but controlled herself and instead smoothed her coat out while Trent carried on the conversation.

"Well you can be assured you're in a better position then we are," Trent took in their bemused expressions and explained himself. "Usually it's just one Turk against the small group of new entries and the Turk tends to win because the rookies are tired already and it's over pretty quick. There is a lot more to get through so endurance is a much more important factor and there are more Turks involved so you shouldn't over exert yourselves too much even if you'll get a lot of rests between fights. As for us Turks well we have the demonstration fights where we merely play fight until we show an opening, nothing extravagant or fancy just noticing and taking advantage at the right moment really. So we don't get as many rests as you do but I guess were more used to it." Trent concluded, unsure of who really had the advantage this year.

Arisa tried to smile, "It's hard to tell if you're better off or not but if you have a strategy you should be fine. I suggest when you fight against each other you turn it into an act, Gaia knows who many tough fights you have lined up. Might as well make the job easier for you."

"My only strategy is to not get beaten into a pulp." John offered, really none had thought of one yet.

"How can we think of a plan when we don't know what we're up against?" Rude said, he shifted uncomfortable as they all looked his way but he'd made a fair observation.

"Point taken but I think she meant how you were going to get thought the evening, your just going to have to wing the rest." They nodded in agreement to Trent but still none the wiser how they were expected to plan for the evening. They were saved from saying any more when Lyon suddenly stuck his head out the door and requested Rude's help.

Just as confused as everyone else was he stood up and went to see why Lyon needed him. While the others asked what was going on or tried to see inside the room Rude made his way to the Turk. As soon as he arrived, he was bustled in without hesitation and the door was quickly shut behind him. The first think Rude noticed was the artificial light was a brilliant contrast to the rising sunshine that shone in through the common rooms tall narrow windows. The second thing he noticed was the blood. It coated the walls, dripped from the sink and spilled over the toilet. Smearing the blue walls and tiled floor with wet stains, splatters and puddles. There was evidence of perhaps a struggle or disorientation that had disturbed and broken things in the room.

"It's sound proof so…" Lyon explained when he noticed Rude's attention drawn to the broken decorative bowl and the smashed sink.

Nodding Rude turned his attention on the other figure in the room. Red was squeezed between the wall and the toilet, his shirt and lower face were covered in a thick almost black viscous liquid that had just pored out of his mouth. Not thinking, he rushed forward but Lyon grabbed him.

"Don't rush in," Rude was tempted to growl at him to let go until the man lifted his shirt up to reveal a large red area that was already starting to bruise. Now Rude understood he reassessed the situation.

"Why did you want me?" his voice was so low it could barely be heard over the soft humming light but Lyon being so close heard him.

"I need more muscle but the room is small and Trent….well I'm sure you can understand." Lyon replied in equally low tones least they excite Red whose eye was unfocused. Rude noticed the bandages were stained and imagined they'd need to be replaced soon.

"What's wrong with him?"

Lyon looked Red over then a defeated expression cross his face, "I have no idea…"

"What happened?" Rude gestured towards the broken objects and blood with his head taking more caution now that the Turk sounded more worried.

Lyon took a slow breath then told him, "When I entered most of the blood on the floor was already there, he was throwing up in the sink. After a while he seemed fine and was about to come out when he suddenly jerked back and …well…" he gestured towards the walls and broken vase. "When I tried to calm him he just flipped, I'm not sure what happened. Next thing I know the sinks broken, the place is completely covered in blood and he's throwing up this strange fluid into the toilet. I think some of his older injuries have ripped open, see the blood on his shirt and the pool around him. Trouble is I can't get close enough to look at them."

"You want me to get him out." Rude looked sceptical at the idea of manhandling the redhead who looked as if he had trouble breathing, "and hold him down?"

The man nodded. "Be careful…and gentle." Lyon pressed his last words when Rude moved forward, rolling his sleeves up.

Taking steady steps he approached Red again but the man appear to have calmed down or was too concerned with his inability to breathe to give the dark, ominous looking rookie much consideration. Crouching down near him, but still far away that he wasn't in comfortable striking ranch he asked if Red was strong.

"Depends what you think is strong, you being considerably strong yourself may not agree with what I think is overwhelming. He does have a powerful kick." Lyon warned when Rude crawled in closer, he believe d if he was more level with Red he'd be less threatening.

However, no sooner was he with arms length did the man leap forward to burg more sloppy liquid from his guts. He made the mistake of trying to get closer just as Red's body suddenly tensed. Behind him, Lyon yelled something like 'he's going to flip again' but by then Rude was already in a crumpled heap on the floor, his face stinging and his head spinning.

"Fuck the Kid's strong." Was all he could say as he adjusted his shades, then he got up slowly and tried again. Red no longer as curled up was easier to grab hold of, though once in Rude's grasp he started to struggle and Rude let him go least he damage himself because of his efforts. That was also a mistake. No sooner had he let go Red went limp and dropped to the floor like a stone. Thanking his quick reflexes, he just managed to catch the man before his head smashed on the bloody toilet seat. Keeping a tight hold on him, he slid down the wall behind him. The lithe form violently withered and convulsed in his grasp. Nevertheless, he did his best to limit the man's movements, fully aware of the sticky dampness that seeped into the fabric of his training gear. Lyon, knowing he would be no help stayed back.

"What the hell is happening to him?" Rude yelled before his chin collided with Red's bony shoulder, "What did Scarlett do to him?"

"You know about that?" For the first time Lyon sounded surprised, he was now trying to be useful by moving the broken remain of the sink and bowl out of the way, preventing them causing any harm.

Rude pushed himself back up into a straighter sitting position as he continued to slip down the wall, "Of course, I was fucking there." He was lucky the situation was dramatic enough to let his sharp tongue be excused.

Lyon nodded; he looked pale and ghastly in the terrible lightening. "You were the rookie that Tseng sent?" Rude nodded as he adjusted his told while Red slowly calmed down. Lyon seemed relived, he did not want anymore involved then need be. "Then you know more that I do." He came and sat down next to Rude's left side, trying to get a better look at the redhead but it was still hard and he dare not touch him yet.

Rude felt wetness on his hand that was placed over Red's left lung, more disturbingly he felt the pulse that gushed more blood into his palm. Tightening his grip with his other hand, he raised his left to show the Turk, silently demanding an answer. All he got was a "Holy Infrit!" Then the door burst open again.

Tseng and Kyo stood in the doorway, the noise of the common room filtered in. Immediately Kyo swore but Tseng swiftly silenced him with an order that involved him leaving the room. The he looked Lyon over, making a decision, he asked the Turk to leave, and then shut the door. Coming over to the pair on the floor with graceful strides as if nothing was out of the ordinary, Tseng asked how long he'd been like this.

"10 minutes, I think." Rude replied automatically, he didn't actually know. It might not have been that long but it certainly felt longer so he took an educated guess.

Tseng nodded in acknowledgment then proceed to extract the man gently from Rude's hold; Red seemed to relax into the second-in-commands touch, allowing Tseng to look him over. Then he did something that surprised Rude, he swept the red bangs from his face in a fatherly manner and whispered softly in Wutain to him until the man calmed entirely.

"He hasn't seen Hojo yet." Tseng explained, pulling a yellow sphere from his pocket, muttering the word 'sense' before swiftly swapping in to a 'cure3'. "He needs to go to the infirmary immediately."

"Will he be alright?" Rude asked, taking in the care Tseng was handling the redhead as if he was a fine Wutain doll, and the urgency of his tone.

"Yes, it's not too serious…yet." His tone darkened as he continued, "no doubt he'll be seen fit for tonight."

"You can't be-"

A sharp look form Tseng silenced him instantly, "I am. Materia is a wondrous thing and he has many other fortunate attributes that favour a speedy recovery. Do not worry about him. A few hours rest and he'll be fit enough."

Even Rude could tell Tseng didn't agree with what he was saying but he dare not argue instead he replied, "I don't understand and I can't believe you sir."

"I don't expect anymore from you. Go and get cleaned up." he rose to his feet carrying Red with him as if he weighed nothing, "The others will be in the training room."

Tseng then pulled out his PHS and made two calls, while Rude could only sit and watch distantly aware his legs were beginning to cramp. They left, leaving him to dwell on what just happened but he couldn't make sense of it.

His eyes refused to stay focused, Red must have hit him in the head but he hadn't noticed. The ache of new bruises forming on his torso, arms and face was uncomfortable but he could live with it. He knew he was drenched in Red's blood, a wide puddle of it had formed around him, and all he could think about what last night in Scarlett's room. He couldn't imagine what she'd done, what could cause this much mess. He also knew whatever Red had done he didn't deserve this. Admittedly, he was shaken. What type of company was ShinRa? What was he getting himself into? It had always been happy achievements, they stopped illegal drug dealers and underground terrorists, it always felt like he'd been doing something right like when he trained for MP, but if they did things like this…

He'd never been sure if ShinRa was good or bad and now he he'd never been more uncertain. It was too late to change his path again though, so it didn't matter what he thought.

Glancing around the room again, he forced his vision into focus. Looking at the broken sink, he wondered if he could still wash his hands. Might as well try, if he made a mess it would not be any worse for the people who'd have to clean it up. He used the hot tap; it burned his skin but didn't spill over onto the floor. He watched as most of Red's blood dyed the water for a minute or two but a lot of it insistently glued itself to his hands. He examined the curious stains normal blood did make. He resorted to trying to get it off with soap. The froth and bubble were a dirty maroon shade but it worked. While he cleaned his hands, he noticed a small blue and black ball on the floor, just behind the toilet. He didn't think much of it at first except it was a little out of place but it kept drawing his attention. Therefore, when he had washed his hands instead of leaving he went to pick it up. He recognised it instantly as Red's; the youth had been playing with it earlier while Tseng had been talking about tonight.

The door clicked open behind him and he looked over his shoulder to see Arisa staring wide-eyed at the destroyed room.

"Shit."

Standing up he faced her fully but she was more interested in their surroundings to pay him much attention. The room held her in a hypnotic state of shock and he had to clear his throat loudly for her finally to notice him. "Oh! I didn't know you where here… Clean up will be here soon, you better come with me before anyone else sees you." She took a tentative step towards him, she didn't want to enter so he saved her the trouble by coming out himself. She was grateful but she was still shaking as she closed the door behind them. The common room was empty.

"I take it that doesn't happen often." He commented as she quickly headed for the bar.

"You'd be surprised, the other week someone's head exploded." He took a double take but she wasn't joking, "A terrorist group was trying out a new gas when we were sent to stop them, luckily they hadn't developed it properly and we destroyed all the research. Unfortunately, the poor soul got a face full of it at some point, we didn't detect it or know what it did exactly but we found out. A few days later his head just suddenly popped in the cafeteria all over the sushi, there was no warning or anything. I haven't been able to go back in there since."

He nodded his condolences and apologised. He didn't know what else to say to that so he inquired about her shaking. "It's alright, I've seen some gruesome things in my life but that doesn't stop it being any less of a shock, ya know?"

"Do you know what's wrong with him?" Rude ventured, "I heard you talking to Trent before."

She was now rummaging in one of the cupboards behind the bar and didn't reply. He feared the clinking of glass bottles and the sound of cardboard being moved had drowned him out. So he asked again, though he hated repeating himself.

"I have an idea but only Tseng knows for sure…" she stopped at the distinct sound of Materia knocking together, it sounded like a baby's rattle.

"I thought the Turks knew everything." She smiled at him as she brought small box stacked with the glowing spheres.

"Between us all we most probably do. All the Turks know everything about all the towns on the continent, the goings on, people, everything and then some. We can't claim to know everything about all the countries but I'm sure we know more than they would like us to. If we don't know we look it up or find it out, that's part of the job. Inside however we all keep our secrets, I'm sure the commanders know everything about us. But us knowing each other well it's harder to say. And as far as the rest of the world is concerned we don't really exist."

He shot her a puzzled look and she explained while she sorted through the Materia before her, "Well no one at the academy knows what they're going to end up as when they enter do they? I'm sure in the Slums most people are aware of us, the people in the dark suits, the stuff they scare their children with until we come knocking on their door, that sort of thing. Did you know that there are secretaries that had the military training like us, see who knows where you'll end up. Loads of others, like you, switch courses while others with certain desirable skills are asked to join. Most volunteers end up as Guards, Grunts or SOLDIERs. I know that out of the twenty rookies this time less than half were volunteers off the streets. Most that fail the exams are volunteers to, so you can understand why the Turks are the least popular choice. It requires a lot more that most people have or are willing to commit. Your life belongs to ShinRa and you're no longer a part of normal society, it can be hard to make those kind of scarifies. I bet you didn't realise all that, did you, when you joined."

He nodded and she laughed a little as she pulled out some 'cure' Materia but all were less mature then the one Tseng had used. She ducked down again but continued talking, "As soon as you sign that contract you've sold your soul. Scary thought but it's true." She opened a different cupboard and carried on looking.

Coming over to stand on the other side of the counter he asked, "Would you say ShinRa is good or bad?"

She paused to consider her answer, and then went back to searching but he waited for the reply he knew he'd get. She eventually stood up, in her hands were some potions and from her lips she said, "It's not that black and white. It really depends who you ask. Talk to the ordinary Joe in the street and they'll say ShinRa is the biggest evil but if you take it from my point of view becoming a Turk was the best thing that could have happened to me."

Again, he gave her look that asked for an explanation and again she obliged. "You'll hear a lot of bad things about the Turks on the street and most of it is true. Some fools think they join to make the world a better place but really we're just high paid criminals doing ShinRa's dirty work." Her word stung him but she carried on. "I used to be in one of sector 4's most feared gangs. We were violent, we killed anyone that got in out way and did all other unspeakable things for the sake out our name. I was no better or worse then the others but the Turks, who knew everything about us singled me out as a possible candidate. At first, I turned them away with the foulest language I could think of but they didn't give up. When they came back a second time I thought they were going to shoot me, I met Tseng for the first time then. Anyway, when the others saw me talking to Turks they decided I could no longer be trusted; I was beaten practically to death. It just so happened Tseng and Shino were coming to try after me again that same day. They found me in a gutter. I expected they'd just shoot me and end my misery but they called for a Helicopter and I got the best medical care in the world. During the week I was recovering, they wiped out all the members of my old gang and I decided I'd take them up on their offer. In the end I was only swapping on way of life for another that was essentially the same thing but I got paid to do it."

"Do you ever feel remorse?" He placed the empty potion glass down; he'd drunk it during her story and felt impelled to ask.

"No, they had it coming to them. I feel a little sorry for those that just went along with the others but they're in a better place now so really they got the best out of the deal." She smiled at him again and handed over the selected Materia. "You're very easy to talk to."

"I'm a good listener." He replied, charging the green orb in his hand.

She nodded then added, "I think its more your honesty that people are drawn to. I guess it's wise you don't talk much it doesn't suit this line of work. The Shades are nice touch, keep those expressive eyes hidden."

"Expressive?" He didn't like how she seemed to know so much about him but he focused on healing for now. It wasn't long until his body was consumed with the soft green light and he felt the soothing touch as the Materia fixed his wounds. He handed it back. "You know a lot about me."

"Sure do, I know a lot about everyone." She grinned as if she was proud of it, "That's what I'm good at, people research, never forget a face." She then started putting everything away and he helped her.

"You read everyone's files?"

"All I have access to…and then some." She winked mischievous and shut the cupboard door. "I think we should go to your room and get fresh clothes for you." She started leading the way out and Rude followed keeping pace her as she hurried to the elevators.

"You only have access to five floors," she mused looking at his key card, "It's been a while since I was in an academy room. They still tiny?" The elevator door opened just as he claimed them to be quite spacious, she snorted. "Wait until you get your Turk residence after the partner ceremony, then you'll know what spacious really is."

"Partner ceremony?" he pressed the button and leaned back against the glass while she did the same.

"Yeah, it's after the Tournament, during the party that the executives hold for business associates. The rookies are meant to be the security but near the end they're called away and they get paired up with a partner, who'll also be your roommate. It's good in some ways, but being forced to live with someone is a bit awkward. My last partner was a bit of a dipstick and kept putting things in the wrong place. So many times, I wanted to strangle her but someone got there before me." She was looking through the glass at the city below them but the sad tone on her voice was enough for Rude to shift uncomfortably.

The elevator stopped and they quickly carried on to the academy. Arisa took him through a different door, which led to the same corridor he'd passed through with Mr. Surph before going off into different groups for their supposedly last trainee mission.

"So did all the seniors taking part lose their partners?"

"Gaia no!" She exclaimed, "Trent and Kyo are already partners didn't they tell you?"

He nodded apologising for forgetting but she didn't seem to mind. They carried on in silence; Rude wanted to ask her so many questions but waited until they were in his room. She played with her hair as they walked, occasionally pointing out changes or objects that she remembered but they didn't have far to go as Rude soon found. "Was that a short cut?"

"Sure was, your room is C529." he nodded and she smiled, "I checked it in your file."

They entered the room and she seated herself on his bed while he got some clean clothes out, "What does it say in my file?"

She smirked, "You don't know?" he shook his head making her smile even more, "I'm not really supposed to say but when have I ever stuck to the rules. Did you know every room in the building has cameras everywhere? The walls have eyes and ears and you're pretty hot in a towel." Naturally, he halted whatever he was doing and stared at her with his mouth open. She burst out into sniggers. "I was on surveillance this morning; Don't worry I'm not a crazy stalker."

"So I guess you can't tell me then." He replied checking for cameras but he couldn't see any.

She shrugged, "Depends what I tell you. For example, I know all about you and Youji, I know what you wanted to achieve in life and trust me that isn't going to happen not matter how good your intentions are. I know about your eye problem…"

"Does it really say they're expressive?"

"Nah, Trent told me that. When you all got back, we got together to talk about our groups while he was in the infirmary. Had nothing put praise for you except your eyes betrayed what you felt or thought too easily which was funny becuase your face never gave anything away. He thought it was a real shame. When you turned up in those glasses, well he was laughing his head off when he told us about it."

"Was it that bad?"

"Awful. Now hurry up and get changed already. I don't think there are cameras in the bathroom." She assured him. Not entirely convinced, he did as he was told anyway, no point being paranoid about it. He threw the soaked, uncomfortable clothes into the laundry basket and stepped into the shower for the second time. It didn't take him long to change and he was out in fifteen minutes.

Arisa was looking round his room when he walked in. The way she looked at things made him feel uncomfortable as if she was reading thing's from the way the room was and piecing the bits together. He had never felt such an intrusion into his privacy.

"He woke you up this morning didn't he?" she asked smiling while pulling a red strand of hair from the top of the drawers and holding it up for him to see.

"Do you know his real name?" He didn't like how everyone seemed to purposefully avoid the redheads name.

She giggled, "I think I do, but his files are off limits to me I'm afraid. He said I can all him whatever I want though."

"He told me the same thing," he mused, "What do you think it is?"

"Oh, That would be telling. " she smiled and pointed to a suit on his bed, "for later, when you get your new apartment you'll get a new wardrobe as well so enjoy wearing it while you can."

"What's the big secret about his name anyway?" Rude insisted, changing his shoes to a clean pair and keeping a watchful eye on her. "Mr. Surph calls him Red."

"No secret only I think he just has fun not telling people and by the time they find out the nicknames stuck. You'll hear people refer to him by so many different names you're not sure if they're talking about him or not. Loads of people don't actually know his name anyway and automatically call him whatever they want, that's what started it off I imagine. It's just a game to him and it's fun to play along and watch people guess." She grinned and opened the door. "As for Mr. Surph, he isn't the most imaginative of people, why do you think he's stuck as an examiner?"

He couldn't help but smirk slightly at her comment and replied, "So you do know."

"Maybe."

Before he left he went to his nightstand and placed the small ball on the side then followed Arisa to the training rooms, they never mentioned Red once along the way.

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A/N: Hoped you liked it though criticism would be great so I know how to make the next chapter even better 8D