Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, scenery, or towns; Square Enix does.
13 – The Meeting
"Did he say where to meet them?" Rufus questioned quietly. The Vice President, Turks, and Angeal were currently hiding in an alley in Sector 5. It was a tight fit and the alley smelled terrible; like rotting food and urine. His shoulder was swollen and throbbing but tolerable.
"No," Reno replied, nervously poking his head out of the alley entrance. They'd gotten to Midgar at 16:15, hid the vehicle, and quickly headed into Sector 5. Reno knew the area well and led them to the alley. It had a good view of the entire sector but its surroundings made it hard to see into.
The redhead looked at Rufus's PHS for the hundredth time since arriving: 16:45. He fought not to groan aloud. Where the hell are they? He damned well knew Genesis could move fast and Sephiroth was probably faster, so what was the hold up? Reno decided to slip out of the alley and do a quick search, if for no other reason than to have something to do.
Just as he was about to turn to tell the others something pressed against his right temple and he froze. A voice whispered, "Don't move," so close he could feel warm breath slide across his ear. He fought his instinct to fight and instead relaxed all his muscles, hoping everyone was ok and wondering how the hell they'd been spotted.
"You're pretty conspicuous with that hair," the voice harshly whispered.
Reno felt a tongue flick across his ear as a hand was brought up to his throat. The hand tightened a fraction and pulled him backwards until the back of his head was touching a body. He struggled to keep his muscles limp and took a deep breath to calm himself. Instead of rotting trash he smelled clove, ginger, and smoke.
"Genesis?" The auburn giggled and Reno melted into the body behind him. "I don't know if I should kiss you or slam my foot into yer nuts yo."
Genesis used Reno's ponytail to pull the Turk's head father backward and leaned down. "A kiss will do, thanks," he said, pressing his lips to the Turk's. As he pulled away Reno gave a low growl and the SSC smiled down at him.
"Asshole," said Reno through a smirk. "You scared the shit out of me."
Genesis snorted in place of the sharp retort on his tongue. If Reno had been that worried he didn't trust his companions very much. He wasn't sure if that was a reflection of Reno, or of those around him. The auburn stashed the question away for later.
Reno stood up and leaned his back against the side of a building. He crossed his arms and grinned at Genesis. Gods he was hot. He wanted to forget about the meeting and spend some time with the SSC. Heh, quality time...
"Reno?" Rufus said quietly. There was worry in his voice, as if the VP knew exactly what the Turk was thinking.
"I'm cool yo," Reno replied. He left the wall and wrapped his arms around Genesis's neck.
"I missed you," Genesis said.
"Missed you too," Reno whispered, tightening his grip. With his chin resting on Genesis's shoulder, the Turk suddenly saw the tall silver haired man standing awkwardly at the rear of the alley.
Genesis felt Reno tense a bit and gave him a squeeze before pulling away. He followed the Turk's gaze and felt like a jerk for forgetting Sephiroth. "Everyone this is Sephiroth. Sephiroth this is Elena, Angeal, Cissnei, Rude, Rufus, and Reno," he said, waving a hand at each in turn.
Sephiroth fought not to shrink away as he found himself the center of attention. He nodded to each as they were introduced. "Hello," he said when the auburn SOLDIER finished. A chorus of nervous 'hi's' and 'hello's' replied as wide eyes stared at him. He was behind Genesis and Reno before he'd realized he'd moved so he squared his shoulders and pulled himself to his full height to make up for the mistake.
Genesis watched Sephiroth shyly glide behind Reno and himself, then stand military straight. He knew that somehow moving behind them had cost Sephiroth something, but he wasn't sure what. Pride maybe? The auburn glared at the assembled group to challenge them to say something and to tell them to stop staring at the man. Everyone got the hint and looked away, shifting nervously. He knew that behind Reno, Sephiroth relaxed a little and it pleased him.
"We're running out of time," Angeal said, wiggling his PHS.
"Rufus will be on point, followed by myself. SSC Hewley and Genesis will bring up the rear. Everyone else, stay in the triangle of SOLDIERs," Sephiroth stated, going straight to business and his comfort zone. This time he didn't react when all eyes fell on him.
"That's it?" Cissnei skeptically asked.
"If anyone stops us, Rufus will state that the Turks are prisoners. It's unlikely anyone would question him, KOS order or not," at the round of nods Sephiroth continued. "SSC Hewley, Genesis, and myself will escort you to the 66th floor via the stairs. We will then split up and the Turks and Rufus will head to the board meeting while the three of us will go down to the 49th floor. The rest is up to you," Sephiroth finished, eyes locking with Reno's.
"What if they do question Rufus?" Elena asked nervously.
"We try to talk our way out of it. If we can't, we fight," Sephiroth replied.
"You'd really fight Shinra for a bunch of Turks?" Cissnei asked skeptically.
"If it comes to that they don't believe the cover story and will know I've helped you, so I've nothing to lose."
"You do realize we'll all die," Cissnei retorted. "We're no match for Shinra's forces."
"That doesn't really matter does it? If we don't try this you'll fucking die anyway so you might as well go out with a bang. Stop acting like sniveling pansies," Genesis snapped. Sephiroth's hand landed on his shoulder and he took a deep breath, knowing the man was wordless telling him to remain calm. "I also have to say you Turks are seriously underestimating SOLDIER. Besides, we're out of options." Cissnei glared at him angrily, as did Reno, Elena, and Rude. Rufus looked shocked and Angeal looked proud.
"He's right. If we're gonna go down, we go out as Turks," Reno said, confusing Genesis. If he agrees with me what's with the glare?
The Turks fell silent and exchanged glances. Finally they nodded and Reno continued. "Once we're on the 66th floor, me, Rude, and Rufus will head to the board meeting. Cissnei and Elena, you two will watch our backs from the hall. If shit goes sour, give us a heads up ya?"
"Why us?" Elena snapped, scowling.
"You're both less likely to draw suspicion or be challenged. Me and Rude hovering outside the boardroom door kinda scream trouble and they may send someone to investigate. While you two check the situation, the three of us will wait in the stairwell. If everything's cool come and get us," Reno replied tiredly. He was getting sick of the women being so defensive. The two female Turks reluctantly agreed, solidifying the plan. Reno turned to Rufus, "Once we're in the meeting, it's yer show. Don't fuck up," he said, handing the VP's PHS over. Rufus audibly swallowed and nodded.
"What about Legend?" Cissnei questioned.
"Dunno. He said he'd be there if things went south though," Reno replied with a shrug.
"That's Legend for you," Rufus said through a sigh. The Turks quietly agreed.
"We leave in five minutes," Sephiroth stated. "Make sure everything is in order."
With that the Turks began checking weapons. Reno checked the charge on his EMR as Genesis watched. It was low. "Shit," he whispered. Sephiroth held out a hand to the Turk. Reno raised an eyebrow but dropped the EMR into the SOLDIER's hand.
Genesis and Reno watched as Sephiroth made sure the EMR was off and closed his eyes. The air was suddenly warm, dry, and full of static. There was an electrical tang in the back of Genesis's throat and he heard a faint crackling sound. White-blue electric arcs flowed around the EMR for a few seconds before stopping abruptly. Sephiroth snapped his eyes open and they held the bright Mako glow Genesis was becoming accustomed to.
Sephiroth turned the EMR on and checked the charge; full. He flicked it back off and handed it to the redheaded Turk standing next to Genesis. The silver felt several pairs of eyes on him but ignored them.
Reno took his EMR with a grin, watching the light fade out of Sephiroth's eyes. "Thanks yo."
Sephiroth nodded before saying, "It's time."
Everyone froze for a few seconds before bursting into movement. Genesis gave Reno a fierce hug. Angeal kissed Elena on the top of the head. Rude and Cissnei exchanged a chaste kiss and Rufus nervously twitched before moving.
As Rufus passed Genesis the SSC put a hand lightly on his arm. The VP looked up with terrified eyes. "You can do this Rufus. I know you can," Genesis said. He gave Rufus a quick hug then pulled away, stopping next to Angeal at the back of the group.
When Genesis touched him Rufus froze, remembering how frightening the SSC had been by the monster trap. At his words the Vice President was surprised and confused, but grateful. Least someone believes in me. The hug irritated his shoulder but he refused to show pain in front of the man and he welcomed the comfort. The ash blond moved forward and took his place in front of Sephiroth.
"Whenever you're ready Vice President Shinra," the silver SOLDIER quietly stated.
Rufus nodded, undid the sling on his arm, and moved forward, praying he wasn't leading everyone to their death.
No one tried to stop Tseng as he made his way to the 66th floor. While he figured no one would kill him inside the building if he stayed in populated areas, he assumed his weapons would be confiscated at some point. He knew there were security cameras, visible and concealed, everywhere. On top of that he had to use his keycard to access the elevator on the 59th floor get to upper floors. Detailed records were kept on each card issued and he'd bet his paycheck his card had an alert on it. He had no doubt someone knew he was here, yet no one approached him. The Wutain had no idea if that was a good or bad thing.
The elevator stopped with a 'ding' and the doors slide open. He calmly stepped onto the 66th floor and peered around. Everything appeared normal. The doors closed behind him and he glanced at the clock at the end of the hall: 17:55. Just in time.
Tseng confidently strode to the boardroom, arms straight at his sides, spine straight. He halted in front of the door, took a deep breath, and slid his keycard through the lock. The door clicked, he pulled it open, and entered.
The door clicked shut and silence fell upon the gathering as all heads turned toward him. Reeve Tuesti's eyes widened in shock and surprise. Professor Hojo's lips curled into a twisted, almost malicious, grin. Professor Hollander's face stayed neutral. Palmer glared at him in annoyance. Scarlet and President Shinra wore baleful expressions. Heidegger gave him a look filled with disapproval and arrogance. Director Deusericus expertly hid a sly grin of approval. Ignoring them all, the Wutain silently took a seat.
The silence seemed to stretch on for eternity though it was only a few minutes. Tseng couldn't decide if no one knew what to say or whether they simply didn't want to draw attention to themselves by speaking. He shifted his eyes from one person to the next and watched faces go blank or become openly hostile.
"Where the fuck is my son?" President Shinra finally barked.
"I do not know Sir," Tseng replied calmly. After all he didn't know where Rufus was.
Shinra slammed a fist onto the table so hard everyone but Tseng, Hojo, and Scarlet jumped. Papers and pens quivered at the force of the blow and Reeve had to quickly grab his coffee cup before it toppled.
"You sonofabitch," Shinra fumed, face going red. "Hojo take him to the labs! Do whatever you want but find out where Rufus is!" Hojo smiled darkly but the look vanished as a new voice entered the conversation.
"I am against that Sir," Reeve adamantly stated.
"Shut the hell up you spineless piece of shit! I'm the President of this company and I'll do as I see fit!" the President yelled. "I want my son back and this piece of scum knows where he is!"
"Are you so sure about that?" a quiet voice stated. Shocked eyes turned to Professor Hollander.
"What? Of course I am!" Shinra yelled, spittle flying from his lips.
"Why?" Hollander shot back.
"All those Gaia damned Turks are traitors and he's their fucking leader! Of course he knows where Rufus is!"
"We don't know that they're all traitors, President Shinra. At the time of the incident Tseng was not in charge, Veld was," Lazard interjected, becoming the focal point for Shinra's rage. "Plus Tseng was presumably not in Midgar when Legend kidnapped your son. Given that he might truly have no idea where he is."
"Doesn't matter wh-," Shinra was cut off.
"I thought the purpose of this meeting was to discuss the Turks actions and vote on the fate of the department, not to blindly condemn," Reeve interrupted.
"Those in favor of hearing Tseng out?" Lazard questioned, raising a hand. Reeve quickly raised his hand, followed by Professor Hollander, who glared at Hojo until he too raised his hand. No one else moved.
"The motion passes," Lazard said.
"What? It's tied Deusericus! Four to four," Scarlet snipped.
"Tseng?" Hollander quietly questioned. Tseng silently raised a hand. "Five to four, Director Scarlet."
"You're all in this together!" Heidegger spat.
"Hardly," Hojo sniggered. "Can we move this along? More important things require my attention."
"I'll bet," Scarlet said through a purr. Hojo smirked and several heads swiveled between the two.
President Shinra lost some of his anger to surprise. Hojo and Scarlet? He pushed the thought away and analyzed the situation. Shinra didn't give a shit about the current Turks; they could be eliminated and the department rebuilt. On the other hand, if he appeared fair it might work in his favor with the other departments down the road. "Fine! Motion passed. Start talking Tseng."
Tseng nodded and started talking.
This is it yo, Reno thought as he placed his left foot on the bottom stair leading up to Shinra building. Nerves and anxiety were making his skin crawl and it was a huge effort to not fidget and squirm. He didn't know what was about to happen but was ready for it to be over.
Rufus stepped through the entrance and was immediately spotted by the guards on duty. Several stopped and a few began to move in their direction. One had his mouth open but suddenly snapped it closed. The VP knew without looking that Sephiroth had entered the building. Every guard snapped a salute and returned to their places without a word.
As the Turks came into view Genesis saw the guards tense. They quickly relaxed when Angeal and himself came into sight however. Rufus led them up the staircase to the right without incident. Genesis couldn't help the arrogant and confident look that appeared on his face. Stupid bastards.
Reno thought the Turks were doing a damned good job at appearing nonthreatening. Elena and Cissnei had an advantage since people tended to underestimate them if they didn't know them. He and Rude had gotten eyed, but the beating they'd given each other was working in their favor. While that hadn't been the reason for the fight, it was an aid nonetheless. They literally looked like prisoners that had been beaten and broken.
Rufus also thought things were going well. His biggest concern was that one of the guards would radio their commander or someone else and the news of their arrival would spread ahead of them. He feared that if Scarlet or Heidegger found out they would interfere. His father wouldn't give a damn since Sephiroth was with them. The President would assume his Golden Boy was bringing him presents in the form of prisoners. Still, his farther only had so much control over the individuals that composed the board.
Thinking of how much his father fawned over Sephiroth pissed Rufus off. The bastard liked the SOLDIER more than his own flesh and blood, more than him. He didn't blame the silver haired man, just his father. The VP slammed the stairwell door open harder than he intended and fire ignited in his shoulder and raced down his arm. A small grimace appeared before he shut it down and he was thankful he was in the lead. These people were risking everything for each other and himself. He would not let them down or give them more cause for concern.
"Ya'll do realize we gotta climb sixty-six flights of fucking stairs right?" Reno groaned as the door clicked shut behind the group.
"Quiet," Elena hissed.
"Stairwells are soundproof so long as the doors are closed yo," Reno replied.
"Really?" Cissnei said. "Weird."
"It's Shinra," Reno said with a shrug as if that explained everything. Maybe it did since no one said anything else.
"How fast can Turks move?" Sephiroth asked over his shoulder as he trudged up the stairs.
"Fast enough," Cissnei stated, somewhat arrogantly.
"Try to keep up then," the silver SOLDIER replied. Before anyone could respond Sephiroth and Rufus had vanished.
Reno faltered and slowed to a stop. "Shit."
Angeal and Genesis shot each other smirks. "That meant move Reno, not stop," Genesis quipped.
"We're not that fast yo!" Reno shot back in annoyance.
Genesis used his speed to move in front of the redheaded Turk. "Shall I carry you?" he said through a devious grin.
"Godsdamnit! I hate when ya do that!" Reno said, stumbling back a step from surprise. Damn super speed!
"Stop messing around and move," Rude scowled.
Reno sighed and looked at the offending slabs of concrete. "Fucking stairs." He gave Genesis a wink and bolted past the SOLDIER.
"That all you got?" Genesis said, swiftly moving back in front of Reno.
"Ooohhh good, a race," Reno teased and picked up speed.
Angeal sighed as he listened to Genesis and Reno. He knew they were just releasing tension but he wished they'd be more serious. It's Genesis, what do I expect? he thought with a sigh. Without a word Rude took off, followed by Cissnei, Elena, and finally himself.
On the 59th floor Reno abruptly stopped. Genesis was literally two steps behind him and had to quickly skit to the side to avoid slamming into the Turk. "What's wrong?"
"Using my card might not be the brightest idea yo."
"True," Genesis said, pulling his keycard out. He slid it through the lock, entered a number code, and the door popped open. "After you," he said, bowing at the waist.
"Heh, d-bag," Reno snickered, sticking his tongue out. He bolted through the door before Genesis could comment. The SSC chuckled and promptly followed.
Sephiroth released his irritated charge in front of the door to the 66th floor. Rufus had demanded several times that he put him down but he'd refused. Not only would the VP slow their progress, being carried would save his energy and reduce the irritation to his injury. He'd explained this to Rufus and finally he'd quieted down.
"Thanks," Rufus whispered as his feet touched the concrete. Sephiroth gave a small nod. The VP made his way to the corner and braced himself against the walls, resting. Even though Sephiroth never jostled him, his shoulder was seriously starting to ache. Should have taken more ibuprofen.
Five minutes after the duo made the landing, Genesis and Reno joined them. Genesis had barely broken a sweat and gave Sephiroth a confused look as he stopped. The auburn SOLDIER said nothing, causing the silver SSC to raise an eyebrow. Genesis shook his head but remained silent, deepening his confusion. Something else do discuss later.
Reno pulled to a stop next to Genesis and used the SOLDIER as a leaning post. He was sweating and panting, tongue sticking out like an overheated dog. "Fucking... stairs. Never... again... yo." Genesis smirked and snorted. "Shuddup... SOLDIER... boy," Reno added, licking the side of the SSC's face.
"Reno!" Genesis snapped, fighting to control the volume of his voice. He smacked Reno in the back of the head but grinned before wiping the slobber off his face. The SSC heard Rufus quietly chuckle and Sephiroth was looking at them like they'd both sprouted second heads. Genesis opened his mouth but quickly shut it, pulling Reno to the side as Rude came up behind them.
"Slow ass," Reno said with a grin.
"You had a head start," Rude replied, sweat dripping from his brow.
"Yer still a slow ass." Rude wiggled his tie as Cissnei, Elena, and Angeal came into view.
"We must go," Sephiroth said, turning toward Genesis.
Tension cramped Genesis's muscles but he nodded at the silver haired man. He grabbed Reno and pulled him close. "Be careful godsdamnit," he breathed in the Turk's ear.
"Ya know it," Reno replied, giving the SSC a squeeze.
Sephiroth leapt down the flight of stairs, landing gracefully next to Angeal. Genesis released Reno and turned to Rufus. "He'll give you strength," he said. With that he joined Angeal and Sephiroth. The trio stood for a moment before they vanished.
"Have I mentioned I hate that yo?" Reno said through a chuckle. Cissnei quietly giggled and Elena gave a weak smile. The two women moved to the front of the group and stood in front of the door, turning to look at Reno.
Rufus moved closer to Reno, confused by Genesis's words. No one could give him strength but himself. As Rude moved up behind him he did have to admit he felt more secure with the Turks around. Maybe that's what he meant.
Reno took in the group, locking eyes with everyone. The finish line was in sight but he knew they could still get trounced. He didn't want anyone to get overconfident and screw up. Staring into their eyes he knew they wouldn't. "Go."
With that Cissnei cracked the door and peered through. She pulled back, nodded to Elena, and slipped through the door. Ten minutes later there were three distinct taps on the door.
"That's our cue yo," Reno said. He pulled out his EMR, yanked open the door, and charged headlong into fate.
"The leader of AVALANCE was Veld's daughter?" Palmer questioned in disbelief.
"Yes," Tseng calmly replied.
"No wonder he stopped following orders," Reeve quietly added, earning several glares.
"That's not an excuse," Heidegger snapped. "It certainly doesn't forgive the Turks for disregarding company orders for Veld's."
"I am not offering excuses," Tseng replied.
"And you expect us to believe you shot and killed Veld and his daughter?" Heidegger sneered.
"I did," Tseng stated, mentally adding the 'not'.
"I don't believe it and even if I did, the remaining Turks should still pay for their insubordination," Scarlet said. The blonde woman leaned back in her chair and leered at Tseng. "We can't trust any of them now. Besides, they're replaceable and their deaths will serve as a warning to new recruits for years to come."
"I agree," Heidegger eagerly replied.
Hojo opened his mouth and Hollander quickly elbowed him with a glare. The man glared back but closed his mouth. Not for the first time Tseng wondered about the dynamic between the two and what their angle was. Palmer looked completely indecisive and the Turk had a feeling the man would vote with whatever side appeared to be winning. Reeve and Lazard had stayed on his side and defended the Turks actions throughout the meeting. It made him happy but also worried him. If things went against the Turks what would happen to them?
President Shinra had listened to the entire conversation and said nothing. Heidegger and Scarlet were doing a fine job ripping the Turk apart without his aid. "Enough!" he yelled, having made his decision. The room immediately fell silent and all eyes swiveled to him. "The Department of Administrative Research, also known as the Turks will be -" he abruptly stopped as the door swung open.
"Wait! It would be a huge loss to the Shinra Company if the Turks were disbanded and executed. They must continue their work," Rufus said, stopping just inside the door. Reno and Rude took up positions about a foot and a half behind and to either side of him.
"Hmph, I can't allow that," replied the President after the shock of seeing Rufus wore off. Earlier he was ready to do anything to get Rufus back, now he wanted to strangle the boy with his bare hands. "The Turks are a risk to this company."
For a minute the weight of all the eyes of the board made Rufus freeze. His voice stuck in his throat at the glares and accusing stares. Then his eyes locked with Tseng's and Genesis's words rushed back to him: 'he'll give you strength'. He was right, he thought, feeling Tseng's calm, quiet fortitude seep into him.
"I understand that," Rufus coolly replied, stepping farther into the room. "Yet they assassinated Veld and the AVALANCHE leader, carrying out a company order."
"Assuming they even assassinated them it was only to save their own asses. It had nothing to do with company orders," Scarlet mocked.
Unfazed, Rufus reached into his pocket and pulled out the bloodstained PHS he'd removed from its protective bag. "I assure you Veld and his daughter is dead. They also rescued me from Legend. As you can see he put up quite a fight but was ultimately eliminated," he added, using one hand to motion toward Rude and Reno while using the other to throw the device on the table. All eyes focused on the phone as it slid, finally stopping in front of Tseng. "Those actions prove the remaining Turks true loyalties." The room was completely silent as gazes shifted from Rufus, Reno, and Rude, to the PHS, to President Shinra.
"Impossible," Scarlet spat. "Those two couldn't have killed Legend."
Rufus shrugged. "Legend's DNA profile is on file, test the blood."
"Hojo, if you will," Heidegger said, pointing at the PHS. Hojo nodded and snatched the phone off the table. He removed a device from his pocket, punched in a command, and started scanning the phone.
Even with the doubts Rufus could tell their plan was working, that's why Scarlet and Heidegger were getting so pissed. They could all see the President's conviction waver. He also knew a little extra push wouldn't hurt so he added, "Tseng killed the AVALANCHE leader. Something your precious pet couldn't even do."
"What?" Hojo and Scarlet said in unison. Hollander smirked and quirked an eyebrow. Reeve, Palmer, and Lazard looked confused. Heidegger looked ill and his father faltered.
"What's he talking about?" Reeve finally asked.
"Father sent Sephiroth to destroy AVALANCHE and their leader, Elfé. The SOLDIER failed," Rufus replied, contempt dripping from his words. "Tseng didn't."
"You did what?" Scarlet screeched at the elder Shinra.
"Why were we not informed of this?" Reeve questioned, exchanging a glace with Palmer.
"He failed?" Hojo demanded as Hollander hid another snicker. Palmer, Lazard, Tseng, and Heidegger remained silent.
"Rufus is correct," the President replied through a sigh. "I did send Sephiroth and he did fail. The mission was need to know only." No one commented though Hojo visibly fumed, causing Hollander to hide a wide grin.
Scarlet opened her mouth but closed it at a beep from Hojo's device. The Professor picked it up, looked at the screen, and slammed it back down. "Confirmed as Legend's," he said in disgust.
Scarlet jumped out of her chair and stormed toward Rufus. Reno and Rude instinctively moved in front of the VP. "Move!" she yelled. Reno tapped his EMR on his collarbone and raised an eyebrow. Rude stayed motionless. "Now godsdamnit!"
"Stand aside," Rufus said from behind them. Both Turks instantly moved.
The Head of Weapons Development moved forward while glaring at Rufus. "Take off the jacket," she demanded. The VP shrugged his jacket off and tossed it on the ground. Scarlet shot forward and ripped his shirt open, popping several of the buttons off. She then yanked the bandage off, causing Rufus to wince.
"Easy there, bi-, yo," Reno censored himself.
"Son of a Gaia forsaken whore," Scarlet whispered. When President Shinra had told the board that Legend had shot Rufus she hadn't believed it, yet here appeared to be the proof.
"What?" Heidegger called.
"Satisfied?" Rufus snapped.
"He really did get shot," she called over her shoulder, stepping back. Her hand shot sideways and she locked her fingers on Reno's chin.
"The hell?" Reno yelped, struggling to get away and not slam her with his EMR as she raked a fingernail across his busted lips, causing them to bleed anew.
"The wounds are fresh," Scarlet mumbled.
"According to the scan, Legend's blood is less than 24 hours old," Hollander called.
"Gaia-damned Turks!" Scarlet growled, releasing her grip on Reno. She stomped back to her seat without another word.
President Shinra sighed. "There are some… loose ends to Rufus's story but at this point, I see no reason to doubt him," he paused before adding, "Or the Turks."
"Mr. President!" Heidegger and Scarlet said in unison.
"Quiet!" the elder Shinra bellowed, silencing any other comments. "I've made my decision, for now, with or without the board's approval," he glared at each department head in turn before continuing. "I expect formal reports from Tseng, Rufus, and the redhead there covering every event for the past two weeks by the day after tomorrow. I also expect less detailed reports from every Turk still alive. Lazard, assign a SOLDIER to each Turk and Rufus. The Turks are not to have contact with each other, or Rufus, until the reports are hand delivered to me. They are to be confined to their rooms and under watch at all times. Is that clear?"
"Yes Sir," Lazard crisply replied.
"And after the reports are delivered?" Scarlet questioned, her tone dripping with disapproval and agitation.
"I will deliver my final verdict. For now the Turks are not to be disbanded or executed." He swiveled his head toward Tseng. "How many Turks remain?"
"Five, Sir."
"Where are the other two?" Shinra questioned.
"I do not know, Sir."
Rufus called, "Elena! Cissnei!" The two females almost instantly appeared behind him.
"You," the President demanded, pointing at Reno. "Are just you two injured?"
"Just us and Rufus yo," Reno confirmed.
The elder Shinra nodded. "Hollander, call a medic here pronto. Lazard get Sephiroth and five SOLDIERs up here now. Make sure the two assigned to the redhead and the bald one are good. I want Sephiroth assigned to Tseng. Everyone else get out, now!" he said. "You five," he waved a hand at Rufus and the standing Turks, "Sit the fuck down and don't talk."
The board quickly filed out of the room as the standing Turks and Rufus took seats as far away from President Shinra as they could get. Rufus eyed his farther defiantly while the Turks memorized the wood grain pattern of the tabletop.
"Bet you're proud of yourself," President Shinra quietly said.
"No. I'm relieved," Rufus replied.
"Relieved?"
"Yes. I stopped the board from making a detrimental decision, saving the company time, money, and worthy manpower." The President snorted. "You do not agree?" This time his father sighed.
"Honestly Rufus, I don't know."
"Honest? You? That's a first," Rufus muttered.
"Don't push it boy. Believe it or not I'm proud of you," his father wearily replied.
"What?" Rufus said in shock.
"Regardless of what your angle is, for the first time you stood up to this board and fought for something. If you pull your head out of your ass and focus on what's important, you just might make a good leader someday," President Shinra replied through a chuckle.
Rufus was happy his father was proud of him, but surprised he'd admitted such a thing. He was annoyed that his father thought he had his head up his ass though. He's the one with his head up his damned ass. The VP opened his mouth to reply but there was a knock on the door he snapped it closed.
"Enter!" President Shinra barked. The door slid open and Sephiroth stepped through with five SOLDIERs trailing him.
"Ah Sephiroth! Come in, come in!" the President beamed.
"I was told you required SOLDIERs," Sephiroth replied in his typical flat tone.
"Yes," the President replied, losing some of his brightness. "I need guards on every Turk and Rufus. They are to be secluded to their chambers with no outside contact of any kind. The redhead and bald one require more than adequate security. I would like you to secure Tseng. The others…" he trailed off with a shrug.
Sephiroth nodded and turned to the Turks. "Tseng I know. What are the rest of your names?"
Reno raised an eyebrow and fought not to snicker as everyone stated their names. From anyone else the action would have seemed odd and perhaps given something away, but from him such actions were expected. When they'd finished Sephiroth faced the gathered SOLDIERs.
"SSC Rhapsodos will go with Reno. SSC Hewley, you take Rude. STC Kunsel, you are assigned to Elena. STC Essai you have Rufus. That leaves STC Luxiere with Cissnei," Sephiroth stated. Each SOLDIER snapped a salute and took up positions behind their assigned charges.
"The two females and Tseng can leave," President Shinra said. "The others must wait for a medic."
Sephiroth nodded. "Wait five minutes after one group leaves before another one follows. Clear?" The SOLDIERs nodded and he looked at Tseng. "Let's go."
Tseng inclined his head, stood, and walked to the door. Without a word or a glance over his shoulder he left the room, Sephiroth trailing behind him. Five minutes later Elena left with Kunsel on her heels. A few minutes after they had gone there was another knock at the door. The door opened without invitation and a short woman in a lab coat entered. She had wavy hair tied back in a ponytail and glasses perched on her nose. She was carrying a black medical bag.
"I am Professor Rayleigh," the woman said in a crisp tone. "I was told medical assistance was required in the board room."
"Yes," President Shinra replied. "My son and these two Turks need an exam."
Professor Rayleigh nodded and moved to Rufus first. She immediately spotted the bullet wound through the open shirt and went to work, pulling out Materia and other supplies from her bag.
"How is he?" the elder Shinra asked after a few minutes. He watched Cissnei and STC Luxiere silently exit the room.
"The wound is swollen but I don't see any signs of infection. I should be able to fully heal it," Rayleigh replied, placing a green Materia in her pocket before pulling out another. "Either this was a lucky shot or whoever did this knew what they were doing."
"They knew what they were doing," President Shinra snipped.
Rayleigh nodded and decided a Cure 2 spell should work since she'd picked up no major internal damage. Once done, she replaced the Materia and removed a small bottle of pills from her bag. "Take these twice a day for one week," she said, handing the bottle to Rufus.
"I thought you said there wasn't any infection," President Shinra shot.
"I didn't sense any, but better safe than sorry don't you think?" Rayleigh calmly replied, grabbing her bag and moving onto Rude.
Silence settled over the gathering as Rude was examined. "Someone was not careful with you," Professor Rayleigh mumbled as she picked up her Materia spheres and went to work.
Rufus watched Rayleigh attend to Rude with a bored look on his face. While he was concerned, he couldn't show any more emotion than necessary or his father would be more suspicious than he already was.
"Rufus you may go," his father said, interrupting his thoughts.
Rufus nodded, stood, and almost ran right into the SOLDIER behind him. "If you're going to stalk me the least you can do is stay the hell out of my way!" he snapped. The SOLDIER jerked his head up and the VP froze. "Godsdamnit!" Rufus muttered.
"Something the matter?" The President asked sounding amused.
Rufus shook his head 'no' and moved forward. This was one of the SOLDIERs who had been assigned to watch him before his father had discovered Legend in his room. Those two had driven him crazy all day. "Just tired of being followed," he muttered, keeping the rest to himself.
"Then stop fucking up," his father snarled as Rufus slipped out the door.
Professor Rayleigh finished with the bald Turk and moved around the table to reach the redhead. She was unfazed by the intense stares that followed her movement. Working with Professor Hojo had made her immune to such things. What she wasn't immune to was the sight of glowing eyes ten inches from her face. She froze as the blue orbs pinned her with a scowl.
"There a problem Professor?" President Shinra asked in amused curiosity.
The auburn haired SOLDIER in front of her raised an eyebrow with an expression that was both curious and challenging. The level of luminosity in the gaze bothered her, but SOLDIERs weren't her department so she let it go. "No Sir."
"Rufus's apartment is closer than the others. You two can go," Shinra said to the healed Turk and his guard.
Angeal and Rude nodded in unison. The SOLDIER moved back a step as Rude stood. He didn't like leaving Reno but what choice did he have? Surely his partner could stay out of trouble for a few minutes. He'll be fine; Genesis is with him, he thought, surprising himself that he trusted the auburn enough to even think that. Guess he grows on you or something. Rude calmly walked to the door and exited the room with Angeal at his back.
Professor Rayleigh made a 'tsking' sound and clicked her tongue, turning toward President Shinra. "This one's injuries are more complex than the others."
President Shinra leaned back in his chair and swiveled to get a better view of the trio. "What do you mean more complex?"
"It would appear he has been severely injured more than once over a short time period; say a week. Nothing has completely healed and some minor infection has set it," Rayleigh replied. "He needs to take antibiotics for at least three days before I can completely heal him."
"He doesn't seem any worse than the others," Shinra said.
"It's mostly internal, Sir."
"I see. How did you hurt yourself boy?"
"Lemme see... my chopper got shot down, a Behemoth tried to make me dinner, and Legend didn't take kindly to me tryin' to kill 'im," Reno replied, fighting the anger that tried to seep into his words. He didn't like anyone calling him 'boy', let alone the arrogant, fat bastard President.
"How did you survive all that?" Professor Rayleigh asked in amazement.
"Guardian Angel."
A boom of laughter startled Rayleigh and made Reno and Genesis tense. The trio looked at President Shinra in confusion.
"I like you boy. Do what you need to Professor, but make sure he gets healed. He could prove useful. In the meantime, make sure he's comfortable. You," he waved a hand at Genesis, "don't hurt him unless you have to."
"Yes, Sir," Genesis crisply replied.
Shinra nodded as Rayleigh cast a low level Cure spell then handed Reno two bottles of pills. "Take two of these a day for a week and these are midgrade painkillers; take them as needed. If possible I'll see you in three days," she said, glancing at the President.
"It will be taken care of," Shinra said.
Rayleigh placed her supplies back in her bag. "Is there anything else Sir?"
"No." Shinra watched her backside as she exited the room. He turned toward the remaining two. "Go."
Reno didn't need to be told twice. He stood and quickly made his escape with Genesis right behind him. As he waited for the elevator he idly tossed one of the pill bottles into the air and caught it.
Genesis watched Reno launch the bottle into the air over and over again. He suspected the action was caused by nervousness or agitation though the redhead's face was expressionless. The auburn wanted to comfort the Turk but couldn't since anything he said or did would be recorded. He'd have to wait until they were at Reno's place, which was frustrating.
The SSC was not only concerned about the Turk's mental state, but about his physical state as well. Genesis knew the injuries the chopper crash had caused, but Reno had said nothing about being hurt by the Behemoth when it happened and he didn't know if the redhead had been injured and not told him, or whether he'd just told Shinra he'd been hurt to screw with him. He wasn't exactly sure who had beaten the Turk up, but he doubted it was Legend. The SSC wasn't clear on every detail of the plan, but he was fairly certain they hadn't killed other Turk.
The elevator doors dinged open and the pair got on. Reno moved to the back right corner and slumped against the wall. "I live on the 50th floor," he muttered.
"The 50th?" Genesis parroted, surprised. Floors above level 49 contained Shinra's upper echelon; whether it be offices or living quarters. He knew Reno was the Turks SIC, but he thought he'd just earned the promotion. If that was the case he should have an apartment on a lower level since he hadn't been official promoted, let alone gotten an apartment upgrade. That Reno already lived on an upper floor was interesting and made him wonder where the other Turks lived.
Reno nodded and Genesis hit the '59' button. The set of elevators that serviced the upper levels only went down that far. From there they'd have to change elevators to go further. Paranoid bastards, Genesis thought as the elevator glided downward.
It didn't take long to descend seven floors. The doors slid open, they exchanged lifts, and Genesis hit the '50' button. He desperately tried to read the Turk's mood but wasn't doing well. The SSC couldn't decide if Reno was angry, irritated, tired, or all of the above.
The doors slid open on the 50th floor and Genesis stepped out. He stopped and let Reno take the lead, having no clue what door was Reno's. He'd never been on this floor and glimpsed around. It pretty much looked like any other floor in the building, glass and metal. As they passed closed doors, he noticed none were marked and wondered who Reno's neighbors were.
Reno moved toward his apartment with a sense of relief and anxiety. He was glad to be home, more than glad to be alive, but knew it wasn't over yet. The Turk was worried about the reports they had to turn in. Tseng had been told some of the plan but not all and he worried his boss didn't have enough details to match his and Rufus's reports well enough, and that would be a bad thing. He also wondered why he had to turn in a detailed report instead of a lesser one. The redhead sighed, thinking he could deal with it all later. Right now all he really wanted was a shower and a nap on a surface that wasn't dirt or rock.
As he approached his apartment he noticed an STC holding two brown paper bags by his door. What now? he thought, eyeing the man.
"Halt," Genesis said, stepping in front of the Turk. He didn't care if he offended Reno. His job was to not allow him to talk to anyone, whether he agreed or not. It was annoying but those were his orders and with cameras everywhere, he wasn't going to slip up. "Who are you and what are you doing here SOLDIER?"
"SOLDIER Third Class Sebastian, Sir. I would salute but my hands are full, Sir," the SOLDIER quickly replied.
"No salute required. What are you doing here?" Genesis questioned.
"SOLDIER Second Class Sephiroth requested I bring food here, Sir. He said anything perishable would be inedible, Sir," STC Sebastian crisply replied.
"Relax will you?" Genesis said. All the 'sir's' were getting on his nerves. "Who's the other bag for then?"
"Me, S-," he stopped and nodded with a sheepish grin. "Delivering all the food made me hungry."
"Heh, I'll bet," Reno replied with a grin.
"Quiet Turk," Genesis snapped, earning a glare from Reno. He mentally sighed and took the offered bag from the STC. "Dismissed," he said.
"Sir!" STC Sebastian replied. He snapped a salute with his now free hand before heading toward the elevator.
Reno glared at Genesis as he moved around him and pulled out his keycard. He couldn't tell if the auburn was simply trying to be a good little SOLDIER or if he was pissed about something. The Turk slid his card though his lock and entered a code as his mouth watered from the smells coming from the bag the STC had given them. The door slid open and he entered his darkened apartment for the first time in weeks.
The Turk stopped a few feet into the apartment and Genesis moved around him to place the food on a coffee table. He looked around, surprised at the apartments size. It was at least two bedrooms with a large living room and decent sized kitchen. He could see a half bath in the hallway and figured there was a larger bathroom attached to the master bedroom. The SSC figured the apartment was probably three times the size of the tiny little space he shared with Angeal on the 44th floor.
More surprising than the size was the complete lack of decor or personal touches. There were no magazines or books on the coffee table, no books or knick-knacks on the built in bookshelves. No throw pillows or blankets on the couch. Hell, there wasn't even a kitchen table. The only objects in the living room were a large sectional couch, an oversized chair, the coffee table, a small end table, and a floor lamp. No pictures, personal or otherwise, hung on the walls.
"Reno?"
"Hmm?"
"How long have you lived here?"
"Eh... 'bout eight months. Why?" Reno asked, turning on a floor lamp and shielding his eyes.
"Just... curious," Genesis replied uncertainly.
"Heh, ssuurre," Reno said, flopping onto the couch. "Spit it out SOLDIER boy."
"Godsdamnit stop calling me that!" Genesis snapped.
Reno tucked an arm behind his head and glared up at the SSC. It felt so fucking good to be laying on a couch he wanted to cry. "The hell's yer problem yo?"
"My problem?"
"Yeah, yours. You've been a dick ever since the meeting."
"For the love of Minerva Reno! I have to do my job in public. A damned Turk should know that."
Reno opened his mouth but closed it, throwing his other arm up over his eyes. "Yer right," he mumbled. "I'm being a tool."
Genesis quirked an eyebrow. "I didn't say that Reno."
"No shit, yo. I did," Reno said through a chuckle. He grinned at the SSC and grabbed the bag of food. "I didn't decorate because I didn't think I was gonna stay. When I did..." he trailed off with a shrug. "I just treat everywhere as temporary ok? Now let's eat."
Genesis nodded and walked over to the couch. The Turk moved to a sitting position and he sat down beside him, helping him pull takeout containers from the bag. The smell of Wutain food filled the air and made his stomach growl.
"Not the only one starving," Reno muttered, ripping the lid off of a container and using chopsticks to dig in. "Mmm, 'ere," he slurred around a full mouth. He held the chopsticks in front of Genesis's mouth.
"I can feed myself," Genesis said, opening another package and grabbing a pair of chopsticks.
Reno swallowed. "Feeding people is sexy yo," he replied, waving the offered food in front of the SSC's mouth again.
Genesis cocked an eyebrow but opened his mouth and let Reno feed him the bite. As he chewed, he placed a bite on his own chopsticks and held it out toward the Turk. "What about being fed?" he asked in a teasing tone after he'd swallowed.
"Also sexy," Reno replied, taking the offered morsel.
The two alternated feeding themselves and each other. While Genesis found it strange, he didn't mind it and Reno seemed to enjoy it. When the Turk offered him the last bite of his food, Genesis slid his mouth over the chopsticks in a wholly seductive way, using his tongue to clean the utensils off before pulling back. The Turk groaned and Genesis quickly swallowed before placing his empty carton on the coffee table. He took Reno's and placed it next to his, then leaned into the man for a kiss.
"Mmm, dessert," Reno breathed across the SSC's lips as he eagerly met him for a kiss. He parted his lips and was surprised by how quickly he found Genesis's tongue dancing with his own. He moaned and leaned backwards, pulling the SSC with him.
"I've wanted to do that since the alley," Reno said, pulling back for air.
"Me too," Genesis replied, fingers idly trailing across Reno's collarbone. His lower body was in between the Turk's legs, upper body partially on him and partially on the couch.
"I really need a shower," Reno said through a sigh.
"Need some help?" Genesis asked, hauling himself into an upright position.
"Heh, sure," Reno replied, rolling off the couch. He was almost to the hallway when there was a knock at the door. The Turk veered in that direction but Genesis stopped him.
"No. Go get in the shower," Genesis said, placing a hand on Reno's chest and gently pushing him backwards. "No outside contact, remember?" The Turk groaned but gave him a small peck on the lips.
"Alright yo," he replied before heading down the hallway and disappearing into a door on the left.
Genesis sighed, drew his sword, and went to the door. "Who is it?" he called.
"STC Sebastian, Sir," was the muffled reply.
Ugh, what now? Genesis thought as he pressed the door release button. The door slid open and he took a few steps back. He tightened the grip on his sword at the look on the SOLDIER Third's face.
"What is it?" Genesis snapped, worried and frustrated.
"President Shinra demands your presence in his office immediately," STC Sebastian nervously replied. "I'm supposed to watch the Turk while you're gone."
"You've got to fucking be kidding me," Genesis muttered to himself.
"Afraid not, Sir," Sebastian replied anyway.
"Did he say why?"
"No, Sir."
What the hell could the prick want? Genesis sighed and nodded. "Alright." He placed his sword in its harness and motioned the STC in. "The Turk's in the shower. He'll probably go to bed when he's done. I'll be back when I can."
"Yes, Sir!"
Genesis scowled and left Reno's apartment. As he waited for the elevator he wondered what this was all about. The doors dinged open and he was flooded with a sense of dread. He hit the '59' button and hoped whatever the problem was, it wasn't serious or that he could talk his way out of it. Gods would it never end?