The large space was heating up, too many heated bodies packed into the stands, exerting themselves as the shouted down to the fighters below. At times it felt as if the collective breath of all those people were stroking their collars. Already Rude's torn suit was damp and his forehead was slick with dew no matter how often he wiped it away. His heart palpitated madly, fuelled by excitement to near the end and fear at what he had to do. Taking the liberty to to gauge Red's fitness noticed his opponent leaning more on his right leg to ease the weight off the left but even that seemed to be causing him pain. It had been difficult to spot, the man-or more accurately he should consider him a youth- insisted on putting on a nonchalant pretence, Rude couldn't understand his stubbornness.
Tseng solemnly began the match just as he had begun those previous; silently raising his arm and whipping it down to smack the air at his side. At first Rude had planned to play the waiting game however drawing the match out tediously would just be cruel for so he charge the slightest feeling of guilt tingling at the back of his mind knowing this was far from a fair fight. Hopefully more good would come out of it ending it quickly, he'd be doing the youth a favour really.
Red was not fazed by Rude's charge, another facade perhaps? Rude saw Red subtly shift his weight to prepare for the impact but didn't slow down. The hit with a sickening crunch, the large rookie's big mass ploughing straight into his foe. When the younger man took it, Rude was surprised, he was certain he would have dodged and had not his momentum kept driving him forward he may have stumbled especially now the redhead was clinging to him as he ran.
"You're quite fast."
Rude grunted his agreement as they neared the edge. He was expecting something from the other man who was still too calm for someone in his position and a small part of his mind was telling him to change action but the large more curious part was keen to see what the redhead really had. It happened two steps from the short drop off the stage.
Rude had not taken hold of the redhead, a little fearful of unseen injuries but mostly Red had been such a good job holding on himself it seemed unnecessary but at his choosing the youth easily slipped down his front like dribbled spaghetti. Automatically and almost comically Rude tripped over him, landing hard on his stomach, face over the edge. Had Red dropped down a second later he may have gone all the way over.
"That was close," Red commented dryly, standing up and rubbing his side. The landing had been hard on him as well and considering the collectively "oooo" from the crowd it had looked quite messy as well. As they staggered apart jeers started to come down already demanding more action. Rude scowled at the annoying noise.
"My, my so noisy." Red commented holding his head as if the echoing sounds were giving him a headache while casually moving out of striking distance, "Perhaps a proper show would make 'em happy?" The larger man didn't like the sly or maybe it was accusing look in Red's eye when he said this.
Red's manner of speaking had become a little darker, however he couldn't dwell on that as Red ran to the opposite end of the stage. Quickly the bald rookie took his place near the centre of the stage; ready for the next part feeling the ball was in the other man's caught.
Perhaps endeavouring to ensure he had Rude's complete attention Red charged forward emitting a cry to announce his move to his opponent. On instinct Rude crouched, preparing for another collision, instead he lost sight of the redhead altogether. Impossible!
Next second he felt a sharp pain in his neck, not enough to knock him but it let him know he could have been. Lashing out his arm met nothing but air even as he swivelled almost a full three hundred and sixty degrees. He stopped when he spotted Red standing ready for another charge at the edge again. Feeling less sure he resumed his defensive stance and waited as Red took another run up, surprised when the younger man suddenly jumped- so that's how he'd lost sight of him.
Watching Red launch himself into the air Rude forgot himself as he gazed, mesmerised at the sheer height the young man managed to reach. He should have been focusing on getting out of the way but his mind was too clogged up wondering
How in Odin...
The boot nearly smashing into his face was a good enough reminder to keep focused; he only just raised his arm in time. He hadn't expected to be fighting a grasshopper, surely only Soldiers- and just second and first class at that- could even think about jumping so high. Mind still trying to keep up with his eye he registered the weight on his arm had not done away; he was supporting the other man now latched onto his shoulders for support.
"You're eyes.... they look dim. I don't like it." Somehow his opponents tone managed to sound menacing and childish at the same time. Rude, slight unnerved, flung his arms out to dislodge the redhead, it worked and the smaller man back flipped to land gracefully across the stage (although the tiniest of grimaces escaped him). "You're distracted, why is that?"
"Just surprised."
"Better get unsurprised," Red responded quickly then added in a manner that could only be described as contemplative with a smile, "Otherwise you could die."
Rude grunted, he wasn't interested in falling for whatever his opponent could be pulling, "I'll keep that in mind."
Behind the juvenile smirk and playful motions- a rouse to cover the incredible amounts of pain the redhead was in most likely -he imagined he saw a venomous glint in the deep blue eyes. A whisper of evil seemed to fill the air and it was all he could do not to look up at the balcony where he imagined it was coming from. Regardless of this he made sure the tell tale dark stain had not appeared on his opponents new white shirt, he decided if he had not defeated the redhead by the time he started to seriously bleed he would forfeit the match. For now he'd concentrate on Red's third attack, this time he was able to track his slowing movements. His speed was equal to Kyo's now but the force behind his strikes was noticeably less, instead they were aimed for his pressure points but Rude was keen enough to parry most of the blows before they struck home.
Not giving up Red ducked and launched himself at Rude's midriff, maybe hoping to tackle him but the rookie responded with a snap kick aimed for the smaller man's shoulder (instead of the face as he would normally). Red countered by falling to the side supporting himself on one arm which he used as a pivot to swing, kicking Rude's knee and causing the larger man to collapse. Wisely the redhead didn't follow through to ground work, unlike Trent Rude was more flexible and was not stunned by the take down plus the bald rookie was practically on his feet again fighting back, although fight may have been an exaggeration.
The Kata of feints and barely grazing punches or kicks which the redhead easily avoided were only remarkable for their speed which for the first few had his opponent retreating. Red soon got tired of Rude's teasing and responded in kind except he escalated his movements into actual attacks. Rude reverted back to the defensive while Red used him as a punching bag. Even though it wasn't his intention by failing to be serious his opponent tried increasingly more complex tactics and techniques to get a reaction rather than a submission.
Rude noticed the strain on Red's still recovering body as his breathing became more laboured and the fugitive contortions of pain increased. However Red continued to be the aggressor, staying in close allowing Rude to block a front kick and come in to capture Red's arm and sweep the redhead to the ground. However Red instantly rolled back up with such rapid speed it rendered the following hold down Rude may have tried implausible but it did at least get some distance between them again.
Assessing the damage he noted a tiny crimson river slithering down Red's boot and there were already streaks of blood running down his fingers. He was reminded of his first image of Red when the younger man crashed through the window, glass raining down like shattered diamond landing cat like as if he wasn't even human at all. Now he looked as breakable as that glass, each hitch in his breathing Rude imagined (morbidly) something else was snapping inside his opponent. The image wasn't lessened when a cough Red had been trying to fold back produced a spray of red droplets onto the stage, even when he wiped his mouth with the back of his sleeve more was dribbling out. From the corner of his eye Rude noticed Tseng had tensed as if he wished to intervene but was restraining himself. Although Red for the moment was probably in no real danger Rude loathed to think of the unnecessary harm he would cause himself if he continued, it was less of a mystery why few believed a man who had no regard for himself could be a Turk. Depending on how long Red had served the company perhaps it was a miracle he was still alive.
Thinking it was for the best he relaxed his stance, looked over to Tseng and raised his hand.
Only a sudden pressure stopped him and before he had time to register Red gripping his arm the man used it as a lever to deliver a violent round house kick which had the his head spinning, following it with another and then another until Rude finally had enough sense to protect his head.
"Don't think about giving in," Red's unmistakeable voice hissed behind him. Wait, when did he get there? "We haven't even started playing yet."
Feeling flustered, something almost alien to him Rude swung round in time to duck a nasty looking downward strike which had already taken Kyo and Trent out this evening. "Playing?"
However instead of getting an answer he was forced to dodge another speedy barrage of attacks, more striking home than he would usually allow but he was still disorientated. Doing his best to protect his face he spotted another punch aimed for his jaw, taking the chance he leaned back just enough for it to go passed his nose and in doing so caused Red to momentarily lose his balance. Not wanting to waste the split second opportunity he pushed as hard as he dared against the smaller man until he stumbled. Rude quickly side stepped and ran to the opposite edge putting distance between them again.
By then Red had regained his balance and instead of looking annoyed or disgruntled seemed pleased. He gave Rude a calculating once over than slowly started to walk towards him, Rude's gut's squirmed in dread as the audience quietened in anticipation. His heart thundered, pounding the beat in his ears. He raised his guard and said, "Continuing will only make your injuries worse."
With a careless air the redhead waved his words to the side as he advanced but his pace was much slower now they were in hearing distance, "I'll live, besides don't you want to show everyone here what you're really capable of?" He asked as if Rude was really missing out on an opportunity, "After all you've beaten everyone else, why not go for a complete set."
"I don't want it that badly."
"Hate to tell ya this Baldy but that's like saying you don't want ta live 'that badly'. In the big world are ya going to let a hurt terrorist escape or a frail woman slit you're throat?" Though the words were accusing (and the insult unpleasant) his tone was not mocking at all.
"Does it matter now?" Taking the time to ask a question proved unwise for the moment he took to articulate his words he had to block another well aimed punch and he failed to detect his opponents other hand snake under his defences. He only noticed when he felt the painful tightening of his collar as it was caught in a fist and then he was pulled down with a force he didn't believe his opponent could possess, while simultaneously winded by a knee in his gut. Before he knew it the floor was spinning and all he wanted to do was throw up. The only think keeping him upright was the unyielding grip on his collar that was both choking him and holding back whatever was being forced up his gullet.
"Don't. Waste. Your. Breath. On. Useless. Questions. Or. You. Could. Get. Hurt." Red replied, voice guttural and determined, accenting each word with a sharp knee thrust in just the right place as to upset Rude's breathing and jostle his guts. Still he found it in himself to shallow the bile and answer back.
"Aren't ...you?"
As soon as he's said the last word Red pushed him back up, even though he was only a few knee thrusts away from certain victory. The large Rookie stumbled, gasping but before he could even raise his arms again a foot collided with his face forcing his head up, his jaw ramming hard into the rest of his skull, fpushing him further away. He could just see Red landing after the backward flip, eyes burning with something unidentifiable.
The space between them was much greater, enough for Rude to return to his sparring stance but Red didn't appear inclined to rush at him again (he appeared to be exchanging looks with Tseng) he quickly used one hand to reset his jaw, it clicked loudly but wasn't too damaged, he kept his other hand up just in case. The smaller male's shoulders were rising and falling rapidly, breathing definitely forced, uneven and shaky. His posture was wary and expression shrewd. Knowing Red was not going to attack him for the moment he dared continued their conversation.
"Still what more is there to prove? These last fights are just for Entertainment so-"
"Exactly," He didn't know what hit him, suddenly bony knees were latched into his side; he felt the full weight of Red on top of him as long fingers wrapped around his wrists restraining his arms that were crushed between their chests. Had he blinked? Because he no idea how he came to be looking into those almost demonic eyes. "So let's put on a show."
The momentum of the collision had them falling, but instinctively Rude had steadied himself easily cancelling out the effect of the man's weight and speed. He felt hands gripping his clothes, once again using them to cut off his air supply, awkwardly he pushed with all his might to dislodge the man and to his surprise he wasn't met with much resistance, if anything the force he exerted was used to give the man enough leverage to gracefully do another back flip.
That was thrice now his opponent could have finished the match. He knew Red was capable of it from what he saw back at the warehouse, using pressure points to stun and knock out people in a single strike no matter their size or ability. If he wanted to he could have elbowed Rude in the back of the head when he had him doubled over, it would certainly had knocked him out. Just now he had been close enough to just reach round and it would have been lights out or pinch the nerves that would have rendered his arms useless. He knew he could do it yet he had not. In Red's condition finishing the match quickly would be the most logical strategy.
He dared not look over to Tseng; least Red tried another surprise attack. But then it didn't seem to matter if he was looking or not and he really wanted to try and see how the second in command was viewing this fight. It was painfully obvious that Red was drawing this out and hurting himself as he had been all evening by doing so.
"Ya know," Red said wiping a bit of blood that was running down his chin, "It ain't as bad as it looks."
Rude cocked his head still somewhat wary of another attempt at a distraction.
"Seriously," Red pressed wiping off his jacket- there were no red marks on the chest or torso areas of his over sized shirt only a streak along his right arm and he quickly pulled the unbuttoned sleeve up revealing a long cut which was only bleeding because the jostling of his jacket during the fighting had somehow taken the scab off, it seemed the blood coming from his leg was caused by the same thing when Red also reveal his calf. Rude didn't comment on the red marks that would become bruises by tomorrow he had more than a fair few of his own. " And this," Red added pointing to his mouth then proceeding to stick out his tongue to show the blood oozing from it as he talked and smiled around it, "I 'it ma'ong." (I bit my tongue.)
"..."
Red laughed as the rookie mentally hit himself the sound was triumphant as he returned his appendage back where it belonged so he could enunciate properly, "So gonna come at me like ya mean it now?"
The Rookie didn't reply, the redhead's cockiness was not going to persuade him although seeing his fears for the man's health had been vastly exaggerated was calming. Still he didn't quite feel like going all out on the younger man which is what he obviously wanted.
"Stubborn aren't ya," Red sighed putting on a little theatrics by throwing up his hands completely confident Rude wasn't going to attack him, "Well how about I make you a deal, you do ya best and I'll make it worth your time."
Rude frowned but asked, "How?"
Red didn't answer him immediately, actually pondering his reply making Rude roll his eyes behind his shades he'd been expecting too much thinking Red had everything planned out and was luring him along. It didn't help matters that the audience didn't like this stop start display and were voicing their opinions loudly. Again he felt pressured to finish this quickly although Red now seemed content to take his time. He was starting to think the redhead was making the most of this one match since he missed out on so many, a little pitiful really but he could safely bet his money the younger man was a thrill seeker.
"Ya like information," Red suddenly asked snapping him back into the conversation, "right?" It was absurd how much uncertainty the smaller man could cram into that last word but it did the trick and Rude nodded feeling he was being lured into this agreement after all. "Great, then I'll tell you something no one else knows, what ya learn depends on how much ya impress me. And from now on I ain't holding back either so if ya want to leave tonight in one piece ya better start dazzling me quick." Ending the speech with a wink, acting as if the matter had already been decided (which Rude supposed it had) Red stepped back and looked at Tseng. The second in Command nodded and signalled something to the crowd, and judging from the response it must have been something that signalled the end of the unofficial 'time out', that was awfully considerate of him Rude thought.
There was one matter though that needed rectifying before they began again. Also taking one step back he said loud and clearly, "Deal."
The Redhead smirked.
Finally!
I had a feeling this one would be interesting, I was right (but then why wouldn't I be?). Still it took a while to convince him to come out of his 'shell' so to speak, did that little incident with Scarlet traumatise him or something? Funny that he didn't respond to the pounding I was giving him, true I wasn't going hard on him just warming up but he changes his mind over a deal like that, sure is a weirder guy than I supposed.
Anyway now I know Rude (hn still think he picked a strange name for himself) can take more than a good beating that's something to keep in mind in the future- you know if I need a durable sparring partner or something. He's fast, well compared to anyone on the street for his size although mediocre by ShinRa standards still now he's starting to put all that muscle to good use I'll actually get a decent work out and show off properly.
Currently I'm crouching on the edge, trying not to touch the floor considering the amount of spit and blood that's got on it-most of it probably mine. Since he's started taking the initiative in attacking it's easier to assess his skills and so far he's lived up to his stats which is more than I can say for some, still I can't help thinking there is more up his sleeves and if I push the right button I might find out what it is.
Oh here he comes again. I don't mind, I was getting bored of going to him all the time although he could make it less obvious he's trying to push me off. Looking into his face now I can tell he's pretty determined this time, -probably cleared his mind of everything else, he does have that look about him not a good idea on a mission but now I suppose its okay. I'm not worried, I've researched enough about him to figure out he's not the kind to make mistakes often. Still I want to laugh at his perpetual stony face.
What is a little scary though when he runs at me is the reminder of the time I nearly got my head taken off by a train- come to think of it I need to ask Reeve just who decided to put manholes in the train tracks anyway? Must be the similar feeling caused by a large mass coming straight at you, the ground shaking...of course Rude is human and not a hundred odd ton machine and I'm bigger myself, good thing to otherwise what Im going to do next definitely wouldn't work.
Counting to five I spring forward, raising my forearms as I do. The impact with his knee was expected but still hurts, like smacking into rock. I've grabbed onto his trousers, it's not a strong hold and even as I kick off the ground as if I'm going to do a handstand he's already moving back and his pants leg slip out of my grasp. I just somersault forward, managing to got touch the floor and I've landed facing him. Not what I wanted but lucky. I dodge the straight punch for my headg. I can't help smiling (a little madly) as he continues to aim useless punches at me, I evade them easily and I get a little thrill seeing the glimmer of shock that crosses his features when I'm gone from his line of sight. Whatever magic they worked in that medical room feels like a miracle, I haven't felt this good in ages but Tseng did tell me it was a temporary thing and I could look forward to being bedridden most of tomorrow. Kill joy.
Ducking down and avoiding a roundhouse kick I strike, aiming for the nerve in the leg that would definitely make the limb useless. I hit home and I like to think I've made Tseng- stick in the mood as he is- proud when the rookie stumbles. Leaping up I show him what a roundhouse should look like. I'm too fast for him to even consider reacting and I send him spinning.
"I thought you were going to try harder," I taunt, watching him get up quickly (too quickly) and shake his leg experimentally, it seems fine and I frown. He hasn't even acknowledged me maybe his ears could still be ringing. I bite back a laugh wondering why I just seem to get giddier. Thankfully he's racing towards me again and I don't have to think about my state of mind.
I run over all the styles and moves I know but acting on reflex and instinct, nothing I did looking as graceful as when Tseng showed me or really resembles much of anything anyone has taught me in fact. At least I know I have a wider arsenal of techniques than my opponent so eventually I pull of something that catches him by surprise. Almost infuriatingly they never keep him down; am I doing something wrong? I spare a glance at Tseng and he's wearing that 'laughing-on-the-inside-at-your-misery' look, which isn't helpful.
I hide my confusion- well it's starting to become frustration- by egging the guy on more, "You want to win or what?" I leap into the air to stomp on his back, just to rub it in as he's getting up. I wasn't expecting the hand to shoot out and grab my ankle though; before I can scramble and grab anything I'm being swung round like someone would swing a bucket. Nausea grips my stomach as blood rushes to my head after the third spin. He kept going (the sadist) and I am just about to throw up when he finally lets go. I was definitely flying, flying to the edge. Swallowing back bile I jerk my body just to try and slow down in any way possible. My clammy hands managed to scrap the stage; I was dangerously close to the edge but now I'd made the connection to the floor I relaxed letting gravity do most of the work. In a way that could have broken my neck (if I wasn't me) I naturally twist and flip to end up unsteadily balanced on the brink. Slumping forward and stretching out I keep my weight on my burning finger tips finding the lower down I am the faster my head stops spinning and the urge to lose my stomach contents weakens.
The Rookie looks confused with himself, as if he couldn't quite understand he'd just tossed me across the stage or he's wondering how I recovered, either way I'm pleased with his expression and happier I put it there. My heart is already returning to its normal speed and I feel its time to spring. Tseng usually chastises me for relying too much on my gut feelings and I have ended up at his feet clutching said gut before now but this time as I duck under the strike Rude prepared to greet me with, grabbing his wrist and using the forward momentum he started to throw him into a long fluent arch I know I made the right decision.
Rude practically rolls through the whole thing coming out unharmed showing a sort of lumbering dignity that I'm almost envious of. Even as he blocks my strikes and kicks he is as steady as if he were part of the buildings frame work but I can see even behind the shades he's flinching. He draws himself up just a little bit and I know he's going retaliate. So I relent, giving a little allowing him to take the chance feigning a bout of exhaustion. Even if I don't think he's that fast he's fast enough to nearly take my head off. As the slightly damp fabric of his sleeve chaffed my cheek I smelt his sweat most potently, it didn't have the same smoky and poisonous mako tainted scent that usually lingered round those born and bred in Midgar but there was something of gravel, street grit and I dare say waste land dirt that I recognised from the morning I went to great pains to awaken him. The urge to laugh again rose within me but another fist aimed for the side of my head helped quell it. I block by meeting the arm with a rising forearm, other hand shielding my face as I find myself on the inside, practically face to face with his brooding one, the fat droplets running and dripping unattended and freely from his bald head straight down his face, neck or nose. I can see the dark glass is misting, marked already by the salt and minerals that stuck when the water from the sweat that had landed on them before evaporated, the remains forming noticeable shapes. Whatever, they can't be much good to see through. I see his deep chocolate irises peeping over the black rims, the glaring lights shining on us-making the insufferable heat between us that more intense- sharpness everything to a new distinction. As if that wasn't bad enough we're so close and breathing hard into each other. His breath (that smells of nothing but energy drinks and potions, enough to make me loathe the thought of what my breathe smelt like) is pressing into my face and again I am engulfed by his bodily odour and cologne I didn't realise he was wearing until now. I don't like it.
He's still throwing punches at me, swift hooks and straight ones while I lost my senses taking in- no, now I feel I am simply absorbing- the heat and scents from his bigger frame looming over me. I remained directly in front of him instead of going round the outside but it eventually worked to my advantage when I recalled what I was doing. Using my right arm I block two consecutive punches, automatically side stepping into so there was no longer any distance between us and fit my leaner body easily and snugly into his. In one motion my arms swing in circles as I simultaneous bent my legs and pushed my hips out. The continuous punches he used before already had him leaning forward, enough to make taking the rest of his balance a little easier but I still grunt from the effort as his greater mass presses against my back and over. Something tears right up my side, the shooting pain just like this in the bathroom earlier today threatened to break through my lips but that was the last thing I wanted. Alleviated of Rude's weight, accompanied by a satisfying thudding noise, I immediately scamper backwards. I felt Tseng's eyes on me and I wasn't sure what was more piercing the pain in my side or his gaze. A flush goes through me leaving me chilled and almost clammy, I bite back the curse or any other sign that I've overdone it save for my paled skin. I'm thankful for the bandages as much as they make it difficult to see and sometimes move- or at least rub uncomfortably- they would slow the bleeding I know is really starting now.
So busy trying to not think of the pain, I didn't notice Rude rolling along the floor and it was only when my left ankle is caught and I am falling did I care to check where he is. At least I had been fiddling with the bandages on my face, damp and already worn they were irritating but made a good excuse for why I didn't react sooner. I hit the floor hard, saving my head at the last second but the break fall came too late and I only achieve smacking my arms hard against the platform, adding the sting shooting through my arms to the jarring pain over my back while all my inner organs had slammed up before falling back into place. The crowd gave another collective "oooo" noise appreciating just how bad it was.
I didn't have time to savour the feeling, coughing and spluttering like I'd been drowned I yanked my legs away but didn't have the energy to bound to my feet just yet so rolled and rolled, adding dizziness and unnecessary pressure to my growing list of aliments. Getting back to my feet, a twinge runs across my ankle, the muscles and tendons twisting awkwardly and though I don't give it much thought as I'm back to dancing to and fro with my opponent it sure feels like insult to injury. Oh course aside from the split in my side the rest isn't anything I haven't handled before.
Smirking at Rude, as if nothing had happened I welcome his next advance suddenly adapting to some of the stranger moves Tseng has taught me, their named after animals or something. It works in startling my opponent again and he fumbles. Now I have him off caught I do some fancy hand gestures and many elbows strikes, I believe my teacher would call this 'crane' style but I'm going on what feels right. Really the only weird style I like would be 'monkey' style. Hmm I wonder how my rookie would react to that.
Springing back I adopt the very low position I need to be in and start doing the odd weaving, pouncing, leaping movements, going in and bouncing back while the big guy wondered what on Gaia is going on. Still the pain in my side is severing from all my twisting and turning, I almost freeze midair after jumping over Rude's shoulders if it wasn't for gravity. I land with a grunt, wincing but I don't think anyone notices. Maybe I'll have to give those arts a rest, speaking of which I need to get my breath back.
I pause a moment too long and the next thing I know I'm being tackled, strong arms try to wrap around me but immediately my own arms fling out, preventing the bear hug and grab his hands, pressing down on his thumbs as I raise our arms like curved wings. At the same time I kick back my right foot connecting with his shin while dropping on my left yanking him over. As he falls his much stronger arms overpower mine and his left arm reaches to grab my right wrist. I end up sprawled on told of him, my own hold broken but I don't let that stop me as the adrenaline high finally kicks in. Swinging into a top mount I'm not exactly sure what I want to do; only it eases the pain on my wrists which Rude now had told of, his grip is as tight as crab pincers. I don't really have to think much about what to do as he's quickly dislodging me, as I fall I twist my arms using the natural weakness of the thumbs to ruin his hold and bend my legs prepared to kick out if he even tries to get on me. He does not instead he easily reaches over and tries to choke me, squishing my lungs in the process. Well two can play at that game. Tightening my chin against my chest I slip one hand into his jacket collar and use the other to drag down, coming up slightly to hug him to me but he instantly sits up as soon as he feels it. This is just what I want. Using one foot planted in his thigh and the other against his knee I push back, swivelling on my side intend on using a scissor action to take him back down. He already has hold of the leg which was on his thigh but no matter as I raise this leg up to his shoulder to hook round his neck as my other leg goes to greet it to complete the choke, my hands are occupied in locking his arm. It's all going perfectly until he stands up and I'm upside down again. I hear laughter and scowl. Releasing his arm and touching the floor I gracefully unhook my legs, performing a sort of upside down splits before cart wheeling to the side.
I hate how I'm already quite tired but Tseng did warn me with the blood lose and medicine in my system it'd be feeling fatigued more than usual (and I shouldn't push it), at least I don't seem overly giddy for no reason any more like I've come off a caffeine high. Rude seems completely fine, his breathing a little laboured but otherwise he's as fresh as early morning light. He's running at me again but he won't get me by surprise this time, I run at him as well intent on a sliding tackle until I change my mind and instead head straight for an upper cut. I don't quite pull it, actually I completely misjudged the distance and we end up banging heads.
OW!
I stumble back seeing spots, that's when a fist that feels likes it's made of rock slams into my cheek. For a second the world is black until a stabbing sensation in my diaphragm brings me back to reality and it spreads right through my split side. Oh leviathan I can't let him knee me again. Great he's got me in an arm long, how am I going to get out of this?
Twirling as if I were his female partner in a dance I spin my arm back into a comfortable arrangement, doing a high kick when I'm right round to knock his arm away, swiping it down again in a sort of 'back off' gesture. He gets the message, stepping back but before he starts taking in my condition I start running round him in circles back to what I was doing at the very start of the match, even if my leaps aren't as great in height and the extra effort I have to put in hurts like Infrit is sticking a poker into me I won't lose.
So Erratic, Rude inwardly groaned. Just when he thought he had a grip on the situation his opponent seemed to just change in an instant, stopping and starting like a temperamental engine. It wouldn't be so bad if he could just get his hands on him. How the redhead hadn't been flung off the stage that last time he tried was a mystery not to mention all the other risky moves the youth did with seemingly little thought, effort or care. Had Rude attempted the same thing, well he knew he wasn't even flexible enough to try in the first place.
He'd never fought with someone so ...slippery. It was bad enough he kept losing sight of the redhead but he couldn't keep his grip. Add to that, unlike everyone else it didn't seem Red had a strategy or plan he could figure out, one minute he was lashing out like a brawler, the next he could he hopping all over the place or doing complicated martial arts as fast as lightening, in fact now the redhead was clearly exhilarated his very touch was like electricity crackling over Rude's skin. Then there was that head butt, what was he trying to do with that?
In any case it seemed Red was back to using him as a punch bag but Rude was now trying to give as good as he received- if he could actually make any connections. Red's forte had to be dodging, it seemed barely any of his attacks touched and he was getting incredibly worn-out (and he knew it would lead to sloppiness) although he made sure to keep his breathing controlled and steady. His plan to wipe his mind clean and start anew was ruined; instead he was rummaging through his head for anything, anything at all that would make sense of Red's movements. All his discovered was from the start the redhead simply made everything up as he went along. He supposed it must be nice to feel as confident in one's self as to act on any whim they felt like but it was certainly a nightmare for him.
Currently Rude was feeling his mind and body were reaching their limits, he barely noticed his opponents diminishing performance as well. Red seemingly unwavering self assurance seemed to be sapping his will even as he tried to muster enough to give a decent fight. He maintained his poker face watching Red run circles around him, turning to keep him in front of him although it didn't seem to do much good when the lithe man would abruptly dash in and attack him before retreating just as fast. He was getting frustrated with this entire tactic changing.
He could not see the slight grimaces as Red put too much pressure on his now numerous bruising. He'd reached the point when his system struggled to balance energy for recovery and motion, everything the senior Turks had warned him about catching up on him. When Red stopped Rude took his chance, storming forward he almost landed a punch but the little eel sprung back just in time to avoid it. Rude followed him as he rolled, anticipating the kick as Red again tried to make him back off. He noticed the redhead was smirking and thought he was enjoying this. He swiped the leg out of the way, coming into the side but again Red was getting away. However they were too close for him to escape. Rude grabbed a fistful of his jacket expecting to end the match in the next moment.
Instead he was smacked across the face with a metal rod, sending his glasses flying to the opposite end of the stage. Reeling from the blow he loosened his grip, staggering back. He was faintly aware of Red's heavy breathing as he clutching his swelling cheek eyes tightly shut from the burning lights. As Red carefully got to his feet Rude retreated to where his glasses had skidded, squinting to see where he was going.
By the time he reached and adorned the accessory Red had gathered enough energy to perform a bit of magic, much to the audience's joy. The only warning Rude go was the sudden and unnatural green glow that engulfed him, he almost thought someone had cast a cure on him. Then he felt a heavy pressure just before he hit a wall. It took him another second to adjust to his predicament. He was trapped. He was trapped in a green, film pyramid to be exact, as thin as silk but as unmoving as diamond. He could see clearly through the cramped prison, only everything was shaded with an emerald green sheen. Punching the wall uselessly, he saw Tseng looking as surprised as he felt. This troubled Rude so far Tseng had seemed to be the only one unsurprised by whatever Red did. He quickly turned to his opponent. He was still standing at the other end of the stage but he looked exhausted. Slumped forward with his hands on his knees as his shoulders heaved up and down, he was looking at his work with a mixture of smugness and shock, sweat clearly dripping down his face. Knowing this would be the end if he didn't do something he started punching the walls as hard as he could in the small space, they were all as effective as when he first tried. Tseng looked ready to announce the winner.
But then the film shimmered. Then it flickered. Then it started to fade until it feebly shattered altogether, the pieces dissipating into the air.
"S-shit," Red breathed looking ready to collapse. Rude took a moment to see how Tseng was viewing this development. He thought the second in command looked sad for the Turk, disappointed for him as Red didn't seem able to express anything but need for air. Rude supposed this was his chance.
Rushing towards Red for what felt like the hundredth time he readied for a sacrifice throw something he hadn't tried yet and he was sure his opponent would not expect. It started perfectly. He aligned himself in just the right place, fists full of Red's jacket and shirt and was just falling down when Red decided he was going to fall the other way. Rude ended up on his back, one foot in the air with Red sitting awkwardly under the leg, his own legs sprawled out like a rag dolls. It wasn't the impressive display Rude had been aiming for.
"So much for putting on a show," he muttered, lowering his leg which Red redirected lazily from landing on him.
"You said it."
Leaning on his elbows he observed Red with a frown conveying his surprise. He had not expected Red to hear him but thought the man would make an effort to move. Then again Rude found the idea of getting up a laborious one; still if they just sat there it would make a mockery of the whole event.
In unison they performed backward rolls, raising themselves as if they were each other's mirror image but Rude was looking a little better for wear. Red took a couple of panting breathes like a wheezing dog before they lunged into another bout of cat and mouse- even if there was some confusion as to who was the cat and who was the mouse. It was much slower this time, and Rude sensed the match could end in a draw. Even if Red's body was screaming in pain the younger man wasn't going to give up. His exhaustion had stripped much of the cockiness from his act exposing the simple stubbornness and pride that was typical of the average teenager who had a point to prove. However normal teenagers would still know when to stop eventually. Whatever Red's age he was not normal. Rude's gradual sluggishness began to leave cracks in his defences and despite limbs internally burning from lactic acid build up Red made the most of them until at last a single when aimed strike to the back of Rude's head, that had been so well guarded until that moment, knocked the rookie out.
Red won.
It couldn't have come sooner for almost as soon Tseng announced his triumph the redhead finally let out a pained yelp and crashed to the floor, leg's giving into cramp. The sound of his groaning welcomed Rude back to consciousness as well as the voluminous applause, everyone in the stands rising in one to show their appreciation for the winner, the last fight, to all the combatants and because it was finally over.
Feeling, hot and dizzy Rude tentatively reached for the back of his head, slowly curling his body up from its spread eagled position. The knockout blow was no worse than anything else he'd received, it just been in thr right place but touching it made him feel sick. Quietening a moan he rolled steadily back to his feet supposing that people weren't crowded around him yet he'd only been out a couple of seconds at most.
Tseng gently pushed him to one side so he could tend to Red's legs. Rude only just noticed the younger man collapsed beside him, still on the floor looking in absolute agony as he gripped his legs. Tseng reluctantly cast a cure and massaged Red's legs, the whole time muttering in Wutain. Rude could have sworn Red was replying through his gritted teeth but everything was unclear in his still fogged mind.
He waited until Red could stand before he congratulated him. The redhead appeared to take the praise warmly but Rude could tell the poor state of his body was bothering the man but didn't comment on it feeling Tseng's close presence and determined to keep things professional by staying mute. When they shook hands he was aware that the redhead was leaning heavily on him to stay upright. "Good fight." Rude said but Red only gave him a non committal grunt.
The rookie had to nod at this, there had been nothing 'good' about that fight from its pointless beginning to its messy end. The Red surprised him by bursting into a violent fit of mad laughter, one hand still clutching his like a vice and the other arm hugging his belly as he doubled over. Shocked Rude stood stock still until a nasty coughing episode cut the cackling off shortly. Tseng stood nearby one eyebrow raised but had an air of patience about him. It didn't seem like they had to be rushed off the stage.
Rude looked over the Redhead to the other rookies most of whom look apprehensive, knowing it was over but not sure what it would mean. Looking at the Turks he noticed they were already marching off in an orderly line. Some people in the stands- mostly ShinRa employees were also departing. The grip on his hand let go. He immediately reached out and grabbed Red's shoulder, the youth still seemed unsteady on his feet and his eyes seemed slightly glazed but they were clearing even as Rude watched. "Are you alright?"
"I'll live," Red smirked. It was obvious he was still hurting but Rude felt himself relax seeing the familiar look unadorned with anything malicious or scheming. "See ya around big fella." He flicked his hair back over his shoulder and walked passed him after the other Turks. Rude noticed his irritating speech pattern had returned.
He watched the smaller man for a little while, his progress was very slow and Tseng was obviously shadowing him as Veld made his way from the tunnel to the stage. Just then he remembered something.
"Wait," he said, gruff voice carrying to the retreating figures making them both stop and look back at him. He fixed Red with a steady stare, "Aren't you forgetting something?"
For a long time Red looked confused, well like a chocobo in the headlights really, but gradually realisation dawned on the younger man and his startled expression broke into a big grin. "Oh ya, I forgot! Good thing ya remembered." Somehow he got the energy to start gesticulating and start coming back to Rude, his gait still careful but eagerness had returned to it. Tseng was looking between them in vague interest. Rude met the youth half way also keen feeling he'd done enough to get something back on their deal.
When they were within arm's reach Red grabbed hold of his jacket so Rude ended up holding them both up. He tugged a little and the bigger man bent forward allowing Red to whisper in his ear. A couple of seconds later they pulled apart and Rude smiled- all his work to receive such a trivial piece of information. Part of him felt duped yet knowing the younger man's name was quite a prize when he imagined he'd been trying to hide it from him since he'd asked about it. "It's nice to meet you Reno."
"Names are important to ya?" He asked as if making sure Rude was content with the 'exchange'.
"Manners." Rude corrected.
"Like introductions?"
The taller man nodded.
After a brief pause the redhead held his hand out for Rude, "Okay, I'm Reno of the Turks."
"Rude," He replied, taking the offered hand and shaking it. Tseng observed this curiously, the large rookie imagined the man found some amusement in it as well. That also reminded him of something else. Reaching into his pocket with his free hand he produced the bouncy ball he'd been carrying the whole time and offered it to Reno. "This is yours."
The redhead stared at the ball, letting go of Rude's hand to reach for the item before thinking better of it, "Nah, keep it. Ya can start ya own collection like the Superior." He added looking over to Tseng whose expression became one of disapproval. "Good idea keeping it on ya, never know when you'll need one. Hopefully I'll see ya around baldie." With a wink and a wave he strolled away, or as best as one could in his condition. Nodding Rude left the stage as well thinking of nothing except his bed while Veld closed the evening with yet another speech.
I rewrote this chapter a couple of times, I have bits of it all over the place and I'm still not happy with the final result, my writing ability has gone down the pan somewhat but I'm glad to get this out of the way. If anyone suffered reading that I'm grateful you did and sorry for the disappointment it probably caused. Now I am in university I imagine I'll have more work to do (thats what I get for picking a science subject) but I also left all my notes for my plans for this story at home D= Well I did make them when I was much less mature than I am now so maybe that will be for the best, but then it won't really make much difference unless I actually update. Hey ho ^^; I do want to so I will try. I'm still discoevring things about Reno's character which is making him quite hard to write at the moment and I'm getting fan interpretations quite muddled up as well. I suppose from here on out if this story is going to go anywhere I will have to get my head around it. Sorry again for the usual bad grammar and spelling. I do check through my work but it seems I still make a lot of mistakes.
If you would still like to I would be happy with any reviews you give.