Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, scenery, or towns; Square Enix does.
19 – Final Verdict
Rufus sat in an oversized chair in his living room, doing nothing but staring at the city beyond his windows. During his confinement it had become his favorite pastime. Television programming was dreadful, he couldn't concentrate enough to read, and STC Essai was far from being entertaining. Any reports or paperwork he had in his apartment were complete. Everything else was in his office, which of course he couldn't get to. The only solace he had were Legend's brief, infrequent visits.
His thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door. He craned his neck and found STC Essai looking at him with a curious expression. "What the fuck are you looking at me for? I'm on confinement, remember?"
Essai scowled and turned toward the door. He wondered who he'd pissed off so badly to have to guard the VP. The kid was a complete pain in the ass as far as he was concerned. The ash blond was foul-mouthed, temperamental, demanding, demeaning, and just plain annoying. His one bright spot was sleep. "Yes?"
"I'd like to see my son," came the reply.
Oh hell, the STC thought. Essai swallowed loudly before unlocking and opening the door. He knew the two Shinra's' didn't get along and prepared himself for anything. "Sir!"
"At ease SOLDIER," President Shinra replied. "Has Rufus been behaving himself?"
"Yes, Sir," Essai lied. No way was he going to get involved with the Shinra's anymore than he had to.
President Shinra chuckled and strode through the door. He found it hard to believe Rufus was capable of such a thing as behaving. The little shit caused him endless amounts of consternation and took great pleasure from it. While it pissed him off to the Lifestream and back, it reminded him of himself so he ignored most of it. "Rufus," he called in greeting.
"Father," Rufus replied in a bored tone without looking.
"Enjoying yourself?"
"You damn well know I'm not."
President Shinra walked around and stood in front of the windows so he could get a good look at his son. The boy looked like shit. His clothes were wrinkled, there were dark circles under his eyes, and it looked as though he'd lost weight. "Are you taking your medicine?"
"Yes father," Rufus replied in the same dull tone.
"Perhaps you should visit medical."
"I don't need a Gaia-damned doctor! What I need is to get the fuck out of this apartment!" Rufus yelled.
The elder Shinra was not fazed by his son's sudden outburst; he'd grown accustomed to such things over the years. "Is being on confinement really so hard?" The only response he got was an angry glare. "Essai, you are dismissed. Two SOLDIERs will be posted outside the door from now on. Resume your normal routine and duties."
"Sir?" Essai questioned, thinking it wasn't wise for the two of them to be alone.
"That was an order SOLDIER!" Shinra snapped.
"Yes, Sir!" the STC saluted before leaving the apartment.
"You do remember this apartment is soundproofed?" Rufus asked.
"Of course I do," the elder Shinra bit, sitting heavily on the couch. "Turn that damned chair around so we can talk."
"Talk?" Rufus snorted. "What's there to talk about?"
"The Turks." As expected he now had his son's attention. The VP stood and faced him, an unreadable expression on his face.
Rufus eyed his father with a healthy amount of suspicion. As much as he hated to admit it, his curiosity was peaked. He walked around his chair and moved toward a matching one that was positioned directly across from the couch. "I'm listening."
"I-," President Shinra shifted nervously. The questions and speech he had planned in his office had evaporated now that he was here. "Godsdamnit," he muttered. Why was he capable of dealing with global politics and other high stress, high-pressure situations yet his son could bring him to his knees?
Rufus raised an eyebrow at his father's sudden discomfort. What in Odin's Lance? He wanted to say 'spit it out', but refrained. This new side of his father baffled him. "Whatever it is, just say it," he finally said without anger or annoyance.
"How important to you are they?"
The Vice President blinked a few times before replying, "I hardly see how that's relevant."
"You disobeyed my orders and conspired with them. It's plenty relevant!" President Shinra closed his eyes and counted to ten. "I'm sorry."
"Did you just apologize?" Rufus asked in shock.
"Yes. Godsdamnit I don't want to fight."
"What do you want?"
"The truth, Rufus. I want to know why you would betray this company, betray me, for the Turks, with the Turks."
"The Turks didn't betray the company," Rufus said.
"Fine, but you did at least twice," President Shinra snapped. "Why? Why are the Turks so important? What makes them more important than this company? You're inheritance for Gaia's sake!"
"Why do you care? You've made it clear you have no interest in me in any way," Rufus snarled, thinking his father hadn't asked what made them more important than him. Only the company and money.
"That's not true."
"The truth is likely to leave a bitter taste in your mouth," Rufus said.
"So be it."
Rufus glared at his father for a moment before speaking. "Remember when you did nothing but laugh and ridicule my improperly formatted and poorly written reports?"
"What?" President Shinra asked, confused.
"Answer the damned question."
"Yes," the elder snapped.
"Do you know who taught me how to write a proper report, without mocking me?" His father shook his head. "Veld." After a pause he asked, "Do you know who helped me dress correctly for a man in my position? How to tie a Gaia-damned tie?" Again a head shake. "Tseng."
Rufus leaned forward in his seat and eyed his father before continuing. "When I asked you to teach me how to handle a weapon, you said you didn't have time, but Legend did. You said I'd never need to know hand-to-hand skills, but Rude disagreed and said every man should know at least the basics, so he taught me. When the computer system was upgraded six months ago, no one had the time or desire to teach me how to access our file system, hell, my own files for that matter, expect Reno."
"You probably pestered them to death or whined."
"No, I didn't."
"What of the rest of them? The women?"
"I can't say I know Elena or Cissnei well, but like the others, they've always listened to me, to my ideas, my problems, whatever. They always talk to me, show me things, let me vent, and offer advice. They always have time for me," Rufus replied.
"They kidnapped you as well," President Shinra grumbled.
"Yeah, they did, and it was my own fucking fault. You ask how important the Turks are to me? They're my fucking family," Rufus said, leaning back in the chair and crossing his legs.
"I'm your family Rufus!"
"By blood only. You don't want a son, only an heir. The sad part is you're unwilling to teach me how to be one," Rufus said in a monotone.
"No one taught me anything."
"That's apparent."
"What the hell does that mean?" the elder Shinra growled.
"It means you're driving this godsdamned company into the ground. You're unwilling to listen to the advice of others, expect those that you shouldn't. You want to pander to the people, to your departments, and you don't see the consequences of that," Rufus paused and took a deep breath. "I fight you because you're weak, because you're no longer fit to lead SEPC."
"And you think you are?" the elder mocked.
"Couldn't do any worse than you."
President Shinra sat speechless. Rufus thought he could run the company? Impossible! Yet… yet what else had the Turks taught him? It was obvious the entire department was ruthless, cunning, determined, and, dare he say, loyal. Some part of him felt terrible that he'd neglected Rufus and that others hadn't, but he had an entire company to run for Shiva's Sake! He barely had enough time in the day to sleep!
The elder Shinra stood and looked down at his son. "My final decision is thus, the Department of Administrative Research will remain active and all charges against any remaining Turks will be dropped. Tseng will officially be promoted to Director and Reno to Assistant Director. From this day forward, the department will report to you."
"What?" Rufus replied, dumbfounded.
President Shinra ignored his son and continued. "Tseng and Reno have been working on new Directives for the Department. You have two days to solidify them. After that, you will be relocated to Junon and placed on house arrest. Until then you are to remain confined to your quarters."
"You can't be serious! How the fuck am I supposed to run a department from hundreds of miles away?"
"You seem to think you can run a company that is spread over three continents and two islands so this should be easy," President Shinra snarled before briskly walking to the door and exiting the apartment.
Rufus blinked at the closed door, stunned. What in Gaia just happened? Did his father seriously just hand him the Turks? Yes. There had to be some catch, aside from being moved to Junon that was. Regardless, part of him was elated and part of him was petrified. Numb, he rose, switched chairs, and went back to staring blankly at the city beyond the glass.
There was a knock at the door before it slid open. Genesis was over the back of the couch, sword in hand, before Reno even had a chance to blink. He quickly turned his head and found Sephiroth standing just inside the apartment, eyeing the auburn SOLDIER with a raised eyebrow.
"Sephiroth," Genesis said, lowering his sword.
"Genesis," the silver SSC nodded. "We have been summoned to the board room, immediately."
"Ugh, not again," Genesis replied, harnessing his weapon.
"Ya know ya love Shinra yo," Reno teased, moving to the door and putting his shoes on.
"Oh yeah, the roly-poly dink just flat does it for me," Genesis said, tone dripping with sarcasm.
"Heh, I knew it," Reno grinned, straightening up.
Genesis rolled his eyes and quickly put his boots on. As usual, Sephiroth remained silent during the banter. It seemed the silver was ok with one on one conversation, but add even one more person to the mix and he remained distant.
Once the group was ready, Sephiroth exited the apartment followed by Reno, then Genesis. Tseng was leaning against the wall by his door in the hallway. He silently took his position in front of the silver SSC and led them to the elevator.
"Why the summons?" Reno asked as the lift ascended to the 59th floor.
"Final verdict," Tseng replied without emotion.
While Reno had suspected as much, having it confirmed made his heart race and his stomach flop. He was more nervous now than he had been the day they'd walked through the front door with a KOS order on their heads, though he wasn't sure why. Maybe it was because that day he'd been prepared to fight and die and now he wasn't. Whatever the cause he found it irritating.
The doors dinged open on the 59th floor and the two Turks stepped out, followed by the SOLDIERs. As the group waited for the second lift another elevator dinged open and Cissnei, Rude, Angeal, and STC Luxiere stepped out.
"Fancy meetin' you here," Reno joked.
"Reno," Tseng snapped before any of the SOLDIERs could.
"What? I was jus-"
"Quiet!"
"Hmph," Reno huffed, crossing his arms and scowling. He was getting tired of all this no talking shit. His nerves were almost worn through and he needed a distraction. As he fidgeted, the elevator his party had exited opened again and Elena and STC Kunsel stepped out. This time he kept his mouth shut.
"STC Rhapsodos and myself will escort Tseng and Reno up first. The rest of you will take the next carriage," Sephiroth stated as the lift finally arrived. While they might all be able to fit in one car it would be tight and he wasn't fond of that idea. There was a chorus of 'Sirs!' and he nodded before joining the others and letting the door close.
At long last, the first party stepped out onto the 66th floor. Tseng led the group a short distance from the elevators to wait for the remaining Turks. By this point Reno was having a hard time keeping still. His hands were twitching and he was drumming his fingers on his legs, earning him a scowl from Tseng. The redhead immediately stilled himself, but flashed a brief scowl of his own before sliding into 'Turk Mode'.
"I will inform the board of our arrival," Sephiroth stated as the second group finally joined the first. Once again a chorus of 'Sirs' sounded and he nodded before approaching the boardroom. He knocked before opening the door and entering.
"Ah Sephiroth," President Shinra beamed. "Everyone has arrived then?"
"Yes Sir."
"Good, good. Send all the Turks in and pick one other SOLIDER to stand guard with you."
"Sir, I really think we should hear your verdict and discuss it first," Scarlett said.
"I really don't care what you think or have to say. I've already told you all I've made my decision. It's final."
"Si-," Heidegger began.
"Silence!" Shinra yelled. The board stilled and he turned back to the silver SSC. "Sephiroth?"
Sephiroth nodded and exited the room. In the hallway, he impulsively grabbed the auburn STC's right arm just above the elbow and pulled him away from the rest of the group. As he released him, Genesis said nothing but glared at him as he wondered what on Gaia had made him do that. He didn't touch people unless ordered to or during combat. "I wish you to accompany the Turks and myself into the board room," he finally said.
"Oookkaayy," Genesis replied, raising an eyebrow in confusion.
"You must not speak or react regardless of what is said."
The confusion cleared from Genesis's face as he understood. Sephiroth wanted to make sure he wouldn't snap if things went bad. He wanted to make sure he could control his imbalance and not roast the boardroom or worse, the board members. "I'm fine Sephiroth. I can keep my mouth shut when I have too, no matter how displeasing it is."
Sephiroth nodded and walked back toward the others with Genesis silently trailing behind. "STC Rhapsodos and I will accompany the Turks into the boardroom. SSC Hewley and STCs Luxiere and Kunsel will remain outside. Do not stray far in case you are needed." The three nodded and he turned toward Genesis. "I will go in first, you bring up the rear."
Genesis nodded and stepped back to allow the Turks to get in between himself and the silver SOLDIER. Angeal cast him a worried glance and his eyes narrowed. He wasn't exactly sure why his friends look annoyed him but it did. Deal with it later. Gods how many times had he said that to himself lately? How much had he put off? By now, he'd probably forgotten half of it for Ifrit's Sake! The auburn mentally sighed as Sephiroth pulled the door open and led the Turks through the door. In a heartbeat his thoughts vanished and he became the SOLDIER the company wanted him to be. Well, mostly anyway.
The auburn entered the room and noticed Sephiroth had taken up a position to the right of the door. He moved to the left and mirrored the silver as the Turks stood in a loose formation farther into the room. Tseng was in the front, Reno about a half foot behind and to the right of him, and the rest formed a line with Rude in the middle, Cissnei to his right, and Elena to his left a little way behind the redhead.
"Welcome Turks," Shinra began. He noticed the auburn STC and added, "You as well STC Rhapsodos," with a grin.
Genesis, standing at parade rest, inclined his head slightly in response as he mentally groaned. Shiva's Frozen Womb would the man never leave him be? Surely he had more important things to do at the moment than bait him. Yeah, maybe Shinra was just being polite but he highly doubted it. Gaia-damned bastard.
"After careful consider I have come to a decision. As such, I will now issue the final verdict for the Department of Administrative Research and the Turks," Shinra said, looking at each Turk in turn. "The Department will remain active and function as it did before. This includes missions, research, information gathering, and investigations of all types, much as before."
Shinra paused and again eyed each Turk in turn. None showed any sign of reaction and while it was somewhat disappointing, he was used to it. "At this time all charges will be dropped against the five remaining Turks: Tseng, Reno, Rude, Cissnei, and Elena. All access permissions, including vehicle, weapon and supply requisition as well as computer, physical file, building access and so forth, well be reinstated as before."
Again Shinra paused, though this time it was to take a drink of water. He repositioned himself and locked eyes with the silent Wutain a table length away. "Tseng, you are officially promoted to Director of the Department of Administrative Research. I trust that you have learned something from this recent experience and will not follow the same path as the former Director."
"Thank you, Sir. I will not, Sir," Tseng replied in a quiet but firm voice.
President Shinra nodded and shifted his focus to the redhead slightly behind him. "Taking into consideration recent events and past performance I see no reason to demote you. As such, you will remain the Assistant Director of the Department of Administrative Research. I understand you had… issues with your previous Director that may have hindered your performance. That aside I expect you to keep your new Director in line and if you can't, I expect you to report it immediately. Clear?"
"Crystal, Sir," Reno replied.
"Good," Shinra nodded. "From this point forward I am assigning the DoAR to Vice President Shinra." There was a chorus of gasps from the board and he quickly held up a hand to keep them silent. "The only thing this changes is that you report to him instead of anyone here. All major decisions and requisitions will go through him. Understood?"
"Yes, Sir," Tseng and Reno replied in unison.
"You have two days to clear the new DoAR Directives through him and deliver them to me. You will have to go to his quarters, as he is to remain under confinement. In two days he will be moved to Junon, where his house arrest will continue. Understood?"
"Yes Sir," Tseng and Reno again replied.
"Tomorrow the Turks will return to their regular assigned duties. Of course, this means that the Turks no longer require guards. I will leave that order to you, Sephiroth."
"Yes, Sir," said the silver SSC.
"One final thing, if any one of you places even a single hair out of line, I will personally execute every last one of you in front of Rufus and the entire company. There will be no third chance." President Shinra let that hang in the air as he placed the full weight of his gaze on each Turk. "You are all dismissed."
With that, all the Turks nodded and began filing out of the boardroom in a single line. Genesis kept his eyes straight ahead until Tseng passed him, and then stepped up behind him. As he was leaving, President Shinra called, "Oh and STC Rhapsodos?"
"Sir?" Genesis replied, spinning on his heel and bringing himself to attention as Sephiroth silently passed him and exited the room.
"Your new assignment begins tomorrow as well."
"Yes, Sir. Will that be all, Sir?" Genesis crisply replied.
"That's all. Dismissed."
The auburn heard 'Sir, this is a mistake' from Heidegger and 'We should discuss this! You can't make a decision like that alone!' from Scarlet as he exited the room. He fought a scowl as the door clicked shut behind him. Gods he wanted to run those two through with his sword a few times.
In the hallway Reno quickly pulled up beside the auburn and whispered, "Come back to my place when yer done." Genesis nodded and he bolted off to join the rest of the Turks waiting for the elevator. The lift arrived and the Turks piled in as Sephiroth addressed the SOLDIERs.
"Fuckin' glad that's over with yo," Reno sighed, leaning against the back wall of the carriage next to Tseng.
"Me too," Rude agreed.
The two women remained quiet and he noticed Cissnei glaring at him. "What?"
"Nothing," she snapped.
Before Reno could reply, Tseng cleared his throat and inclined his head a fraction of an inch toward the camera in the corner. He took the hint and remained silent, settling for matching Cissnei's glare with one of his own. Was she seriously still pissed about the incident in the buggy? That was days ago!
The group switched elevators and Elena hit only the '50' button. He raised an eyebrow but remained silent. True Tseng and himself lived on the 50th floor, but Rude and Cissnei lived on the 46th floor and Elena lived on the 40th. Guess we're having a meeting.
"Reno," Tseng said, turning toward the redhead.
"Yeah boss?"
"It is late, we should wait until tomorrow to speak with Rufus," Tseng stated.
"Alright yo."
"I believe we have most of the Directive's laid out, but not officially drawn up. Continue to think about it overnight," Tseng added.
"Sure thing boss," Reno replied as the doors opened on the 50th floor. "Who's place yo?"
"I have more furniture and supplies," Tseng said.
"Yours it is," Reno grinned.
Tseng ran his card through the lock and keyed in his code. He had a feeling he knew what the problem was, but wasn't certain. The door slid open and he gestured for everyone to enter before going in himself. "Make yourselves comfortable," he called on the way to the kitchen.
"Shit, hang on," Reno said, grabbing a pen and paper from an end table. He scribbled something on it, pulled a roll of tape out of the drawer, and bolted out the door. In the hallway, he unlocked his door, taped the note to it, and headed back into Tseng's. "Sorry," he said since everyone was staring at him. Cissnei was still glaring, Elena looked curious, and Rude's face was blank. "Godsdamnit what!" he snarled at Cissnei.
"You said we'd talk."
"Yeah, and we can but you don't have to be a bitch about it yo."
"Reno!" Tseng snapped, returning from the kitchen with beverages.
"She started it!"
Tseng sighed and sat the serving tray on the coffee table. He loved Reno dearly but sometimes he could be rather immature. "I do not care. There is no need for name calling." Reno 'hmphed' and he pointed to the couch. The redhead promptly sat down and crossed his arms, looking like a two year old who wasn't getting his way.
"Fine. Where do ya wanna start?" Reno questioned, uncrossing his arms and grabbing a soda.
"How long have you been our SIC?" Cissnei asked.
Reno's eyes darted to Tseng. The charcoal haired man nodded once and he turned back to the rest of the group. "For five months. Almost six actually."
"What?" Cissnei exclaimed. Elena's jaw unhinged slightly and Rude had no reaction. "What did you did, screw Tseng and Veld?" Cissnei snapped, taking an angry step toward Reno. Rude put a hand on her shoulder and she shrugged it off, balling her hands into fists.
"Cissnei!" Tseng sharply interjected as Reno shrank in on himself. "I will not tolerate such behavior in my home. If you wish to discuss this that is fine, but do so calmly and without accusation."
"How can I be calm when he's been lying to us for months?" Cissnei bit. "For that matter, you've been lying to us for months."
"That is true," Tseng replied. "However understand the decision was mine and Veld's, not Reno's. Also understand that Reno did not sleep with anyone to earn his post."
"Is that why Reno's file is locked? Because you didn't want us to find out?" Elena asked.
Tseng raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Perhaps, though I do not know for certain. I was unaware his file was sealed. Veld must have done it."
"Or he did it," Cissnei said, pointing at Reno.
"I've about had it with you yo," the redhead growled, standing. "You got all pissy with me on the way to Midgar, accusing me of the same shit. You don't believe the truth, regardless of who it comes from. I don't know what yer problem is with me and I'm really startin' not to care."
"I already told you what my problem is."
"You wanted ta find out if I can watch yer back? If I slept my way to the top? What my rank is? Yeah, no, and Assistant Director. We done?" Reno popped off.
"No."
"Then else is there?"
"How could you outrank me?" yelped Cissnei.
"What?" Reno blinked in disbelief. That's what all this was about? "Yer fucking jealous?"
"No!"
"Bullshit!" the redhead exclaimed. "Yer pissed because technically you've been here longer, but I outrank you."
"I- I didn't say that!"
"Might as well have. It's either that or you think I fucked someone you want, or wanted, to fuck and yer jealous."
"Reno!" Tseng snapped.
"No," Reno said, turning on Tseng. "Now I've had it. I know her history. I know she was practically raised by the Turks. I know she's the youngest Turk to date, even if she wasn't on active duty for most of it. It's either she's jealous because I made SIC and she didn't, she thinks I took her place as the 'golden Turk' and now I'm the 'favored one', or she thinks I slept with someone she's after and ya know what? I don't give a fuck what the problem is anymore." He turned back to Cissnei and continued, "Whatever yer problem is with me, fucking figure it out or learn ta deal with me anyway."
With that, Reno headed toward the door. He heard Rude call his name but ignored him. "Thanks for the drink," Reno said as he passed Tseng. The Wutain nodded but didn't try to stop him. He angrily smashed the open button and stormed into the hall, running into someone in the process. "Sorry," he mumbled, stepping back into the doorway to let them pass. Then he remembered he and Tseng were the only ones living on this floor and looked up. "You ok Gen?"
"I'm fine, though you don't appear to be," Genesis replied.
"Don't worry about it."
"Where the hell do you think you're going!" Cissnei called, quickly closing the distance between her and Reno. "I want to sort his out now godsdamnit!"
Genesis reached out and yanked Reno behind him before he or Reno realized what he'd done. "Sorry," he said. He started to step to the side but Reno stopped him.
"For once don't worry about it. I wanted out of there anyway," said the redhead softly.
"What, you hiding behind a SOLDIER now?" Cissnei growled, stopping two feet in front of the STC.
"I hardly think he needs to hide from you," smirked Genesis.
"Shut up SOLDIER."
Immediately Reno laid a hand on the STC's upper arm. "Let it go Gen."
"I see he's already got you trained. How cute," the female Turk snickered.
"Cissnei please," Reno pleaded.
"You want me to leave him alone then get back in here."
"Fine," Reno quickly said. He tried to step around Genesis but the SOLDIER stopped him.
"You don't have to do anything Reno," the STC stated, not taking his eyes off Cissnei.
"It's my problem," Reno replied, sensing danger. The SOLDIERs tone had been way too calm.
"It's Turk business SOLDIER, back off," Cissnei snapped.
"Cissnei," Tseng said, pulling up behind the smaller Turk. "Calm yourself." Like Reno, he too sensed danger. It was confirmed when he noticed Cissnei and Genesis staring at each other with way too much intensity.
"Gen," called Reno, noticing the SOLDIERs eyes had begun to glow. "Come on, let's go home." Genesis took a few steps backward and he was relieved.
"Be sure to give him a treat for obedience Reno," Cissnei mocked.
In the next second Genesis had his sword pointed at her throat, Cissnei barely held it at bay with her shuriken, and Tseng had his sidearm aimed between the SOLDIER's eyes. Elena and Rude shifted nervously behind Tseng while Reno squirmed beside Genesis. While he had his EMR, he didn't want to pull it unless he had to. It would probably make matters worse and honestly, right now he didn't even know who to side with.
"Stand down, both of you!" Tseng yelled. He was now seriously worried someone was going to get hurt. The SOLDIER's eyes had sprung to life with a Mako glow so bright he'd only seen it once before. He had no idea why Cissnei was behaving this way, but she was way out of line. The two would have to have a formal discussion later, but right now he wanted everyone unarmed and separated.
"Little girls should really know when to hold their tongue," Genesis said in that too calm tone.
Reno chewed on his bottom lip, noticing that the glowing in the SOLDIER's eyes had gained intensity. If things got any worse, he felt his only option would be to stun the SOLDIER with his EMR, an option he was desperately trying to avoid. "What in the fuck do you want to know Cissnei?"
"The truth."
"I've been telling you the fucking truth! You just won't fucking believe me!"
"Tell me again. I'll believe you with your toy in danger."
Fucking bitch! he thought, angered not only at her attitude, but at her reference to Genesis as a toy. Aloud he said, "Fine. Ask your Gaia-damned questions!"
"Did you sleep with Veld?"
"No!"
"Did you sleep with Tseng?"
"No!"
"Did you sleep with Rufus or anyone else that could promote you?"
"No! You really do think I'm a slut don't you?"
"Hn, who sealed your file?"
"Cissnei I don't know. It must have been Veld," Reno sighed.
"Why was it sealed?"
"I don't know who sealed it so how can I know that?"
"Speculate," Cissnei snapped.
"Sensitive mission details."
"Would you show me the file?"
"I'm not going to make that decision when you've got me cornered. Some of what's in there is sensitive to the company and myself."
"You said you saw mine."
"Part of yours," Reno replied. "Every Turk has two files. A public one and a classified one. I looked at the public one."
"What was in it?"
"I'll show you my public file and both your files if you want."
"Alright. Why weren't we told you were the SIC?"
"Veld was thinking about retiring but he didn't want to announce it. Instead he decided to train Tseng in silence, but Tseng couldn't do both jobs at once so he promoted me."
"Why you?"
"Tseng was already my mentor and I have the highest overall score based on my mission evaluations."
"Bullshit," snarled Cissnei.
"It is true," Tseng stated. "In addition, Rude has stated he does not want to be in a leadership position and Elena is to new."
"What about me?" Cissnei asked, not turning around.
"I would be more comfortable discussing that in private," replied the Wutain.
"Fine," Cissnei said. "Why are you on the SOLDIER's side and not mine? You're a Turk and you said you had my back," she asked, briefly flicking her eyes to Reno.
Reno wanted to say, 'because you're being completely psycho', but knew that would make the situation worse. "When this started he seemed more likely to listen."
"Well he's not listening."
No shit! You pissed him off and he's imbalanced! he wanted to yell. That and 'your mouth pushed him too far'. Instead, he took a step forward and placed his left hand underneath Genesis's sword, directly on the blade. Genesis's eyes tracked him but that was it. "Gen, please." At his words, he swore he could feel the SOLDIER's internal struggle through the blade in his hand.
"I can kill you with or without that sword. Might as well put it up," Cissnei said.
"Enough Cissnei," Tseng snapped. The usually stoic man was quickly losing his patience. If something didn't give soon he would have to incapacitate her.
"Shut the fuck up Cissnei!" Reno snarled, feeling fresh anger and annoyance rolling off Genesis. "I answered your fucking questions now back the fuck off!"
Genesis suddenly realized someone was pushing up on his sword. He thought it was Cissnei's weapon until he smelled the sharp tang of blood and immediately knew it was Reno's. At that he sheathed his sword and moved forward so quickly no one knew he'd done it, including the female Turk.
Unable to follow the SOLDIER's movements with her eyes, Cissnei thought he was attacking when the blade moved. She swung her shuriken forward and down, making contact with something. She tried to yank it free and realized it was stuck, so she sprang backward and went into a fight stance. As she finally comprehended what had happened her jaw hit the floor in shock.
"Are you alright?" Genesis asked the Turk he was huddled over.
"I'm fine yo," Reno replied. He had no idea what the hell had just happened. One second he was standing in between Cissnei and Genesis facing Tseng's apartment. The next his back was pressed up against Genesis's chest and he was facing the elevator.
"Good," the SOLDIER replied, releasing him.
"Holy fucking shit!" Reno exclaimed once he'd turned around. Cissnei's shuriken was sticking out of the STC's lower right arm. One of the blades had gone clear through the lower portion where it was still imbedded. Blood was dripping freely from both sides of the wound and forming a decent sized pool below.
The SOLDIER started to shift his arm from a horizontal position to a vertical one for a better look, but Reno quickly stopped him, fearing it would make the injury worse. Judging by the position the blade was likely lodged between the ulna and radius. If he raised his arm vertically, the weight and sharpness of the weapon might cause it to slice through to his elbow. "What the fuck did you do Cissnei?" the redhead yelled, grabbing the weapon with his left hand to steady it.
"It's fine," Genesis's calmly said.
"You have a huge fucking shuriken sticking through your arm! That's not fucking fine!" Reno snapped.
"I've been perforated by worse," replied Genesis, swaying slightly.
"We need to get him to medical," Tseng said, steadying the SOLDIER while Rude helped Reno steady the shuriken.
"No!" Genesis screeched. "Just get it out of my arm. I'll heal."
"You are losing too much blood and removing the point could injure you worse."
"Then give me a Potion or cast a spell, give me some juice, and I'll take a Gaia-damned nap!" snipped the auburn, on the verge of panicking.
"Calm down Gen, please, you'll speed up the blood loss," Reno said, locking pleading eyes with Tseng.
"Reno don't let them take me to the labs!"
"Alright yo."
"Promise me!" Genesis said. He knew he sounded like an idiot but all he could think about was a warning from… someone.
"I promise Gen but please, you have to calm down."
"We need to sit him down before he falls," Tseng stated as the STC lurched forward. The movement shifted the shuriken and more blood rushed out. She must have hit major arteries.
"Elena!" Reno yelled as he, Rude, and Tseng eased Genesis to the floor.
"Sir?"
"Get Tseng's PHS and call Sephiroth. Tell him what happened and that we really need him ASAP."
"Is that wise?" Tseng asked as Elena fished his PHS out of his pocket since he was holding the SOLDIER upright, even while he sat.
"He can probably help. I promised I wouldn't take him to medical, Tseng," Reno replied, watching Elena pull up Sephiroth's number and move back into the apartment so she could hear.
Tseng nodded. "Why is he so afraid of going to the infirmary?"
"Can't… know…" Genesis muttered, half unconscious.
"Cannot know what?" asked Tseng.
"Don't answer that Gen," Reno interjected, flicking his eyes at Cissnei.
"I- I won't say anything," Cissnei said, looking pale and on the verge of tears.
"Why should I believe you? This is your fucking fault!" snarled the redhead.
"I thought he was attacking me! I didn't see him put his sword away!" Cissnei pleaded.
"Neither did I," said Rude.
"Nor I," Tseng added.
Reno took a deep breath and blew it out. "I didn't either. Fuck I didn't even know he'd grabbed me until I realized I was looking at the elevator," Reno quietly agreed. He looked up and narrowed his eyes at Cissnei. "Regardless this situation isn't entirely his fault. You do realize he was protecting me don't you? If he hadn't reacted, that thing would be imbedded in my fucking neck or side right now and I'd probably be fucking dead. Never attack if you're uncertain of the situation. You should have gone on the defense and used your shuriken to block while moving backward. Giving up ground isn't the worst thing in the world, hell sometimes it's the best thing you can do. It gives you time to gauge your opponent, determine what to do, and usually keeps stupid fucking shit like this from happening."
"I know," Cissnei replied. "I'm sorry," she added as tears fell from her eyes. "I don't know what's wrong with me today. I was just so angry and frustrated and I couldn't shake it. I just wanted answers! I'm sorry! Please forgive me!"
"I'm not the one you need forgiveness from yo."
"Sephiroth is on his way. He said not to remove the blade or move the STC," Elena called, coming up beside Cissnei and putting an arm around her shoulders.
"Keep… promise…" Genesis mumbled.
Reno almost jumped at the SOLDIERs voice. He thought the auburn was unconscious. "I will," Reno replied.
"Reno, what is he afraid of?" Tseng asked again.
"He has some Ifrit-damned rare Mako imbalance or something. That's why he took off right after you guys met him," he said, looking at Rude, Elena, and Cissnei. "After that, he spent some time with Sephiroth and something he said scared him I guess."
"I remember Angeal saying something about a Mako reaction," Cissnei said, gaining control of her emotions.
"Me too," added Elena.
"Is that why his eyes were glowing so brightly?" Tseng questioned.
"Yeah, they do that when he's really upset," replied the redhead, tossing a glance at Cissnei.
"That's why you were trying to calm him down," Cissnei breathed. "Oh gods I'm so sorry. I didn't know."
"I know ya didn't but it ain't my place to blab about his private affairs yo."
"No one here will say anything, that is an order," Tseng said. At first, he thought the STC just had some kind of fear of needles or something. After what Reno said he understood. Over the years he'd heard things about the labs and while he couldn't verify them, he could certainly understand why the SOLDIER appeared to be terrified.
Ten agonizing minutes went by. The auburn had lost consciousness and Reno and Tseng took turns ensuring Genesis was still breathing and checking his pulse. The blood flow had slowed significantly, but not stopped entirely. They all agreed that it was probably good he wasn't losing so much blood anymore, but they weren't sure since no one knew what to expect; none of the Turks had ever dealt with an injured SOLDIER before.
The elevator doors dinged open and before Reno could turn his head he realized someone was right next to him. The only thing that kept him from jumping was potentially injuring Genesis further. Thankfully, neither Rude nor Tseng jumped either, though Rude was clearly startled. Cissnei and Elena let out little squeaks and it made him smirk despite the situation.
"How did this happen?" Sephiroth asked, setting a small bundle on the ground next to him.
"It's my fault," replied Cissnei. "We were fighting and I thought he was attacking me."
Sephiroth nodded and Reno watched him examine the wound closely. "Will he be ok yo?" he breathed.
"He will be fine once we remove the weapon," Sephiroth calmly stated. "We need to move him inside for this."
"We can use my kitchen," Reno quickly replied.
"It will be messy."
"The floor is tile which is easy to clean and I don't have a table or anything so there's plenty of room."
Sephiroth nodded. "I will pick him up while someone else keeps the weapon stable," he said, looking at Reno.
"Rude should stabilize the shuriken; he's the tallest so it's less likely to wobble," Reno replied, wishing he was taller but knowing Rude was best for this job.
"That is fine," Sephiroth replied. "Will you carry this inside then?" he asked, picking the bundle up from the floor and handing it to Reno.
"What is it yo?"
"Blood. From what Elena said I thought he might need it."
"Does he?" Cissnei quietly asked.
"Yes, several veins and arteries have been damaged," stated Sephiroth, placing his right arm behind the SOLDIER's back and his left under his knees. "He would live without a transfusion but he would recover much more slowly. If the blood is replaced, he'll be fine before his class tomorrow."
"Why did the bleeding slow if there's that much damage?" Rude asked curiously.
"The wound healed around the weapon."
"What?" Elena exclaimed.
"Notice the swelling?" Sephiroth asked, shifting his right hand and pointing at a few areas. The Turks nodded and he continued, "Those areas are full of blood. The skin closed around the wound, trapping the blood inside."
"Is that normal for a SOLDIER?" Tseng asked.
"It is for me," shrugged the silver, replacing his arm behind Genesis's back.
Tseng slid out from behind the STC and turned toward Elena and Cissnei. "You two will remain here and help me clean up." Both nodded and he looked back at Sephiroth. "I will be over when we are finished."
Sephiroth inclined his head and locked eyes with Rude. "On the count of three. One… two… three." With that he slowly lifted the auburn while Rude kept the weapon still.
Reno sprang off the floor, opened his door, and locked it open so the two could carry the unconscious STC inside. Once that was done, he closed the door and rushed to the bathroom, figuring they might need a towel or two. By the time he'd returned Sephiroth had laid Genesis flat on his back on the kitchen floor. He'd switched positions with Rude so that he was hovering over the injured arm and holding the weapon. The redhead quickly rushed to their side and dropped to the floor with his bundle.
"Are you sure you want to stay here for this?" Sephiroth asked, looking at Reno.
"Yep."
Sephiroth nodded and turned his attention to Rude. "I need you to hold his arm here and here," he said, pointing. "I'm going to twist this sideways so the point will slide in between the bones, then go straight up. Be sure to keep your hands clear." The bald Turk positioned his hands and inclined his head.
There was no countdown this time. The SSC pulled the weapon free and threw it on the floor as Genesis's eyes snapped open. The trapped blood ran out and Sephiroth used one of the towels to catch most of it. Genesis tried to sit up, but Reno quickly placed his hands on his shoulders and held him down.
"Don't try to get up," Reno said, leaning forward so the STC could see his face.
"Where am I?" asked Genesis, though it sounded like 'wheremi'.
"My kitchen."
"Ow," the auburn frowned.
"Sephiroth is making sure your arm's ok," Reno soothed.
"What's he doing?" mumbled Genesis. It sounded like 'whas e doin'.
"Eh, making sure yer veins and other stuff are connected right I think."
"Oh. How terribly kind of him," the STC replied with only a slight mumble before closing his eyes.
"Least we know he's ok yo," Reno chuckled as Rude raised an eyebrow and Sephiroth smirked.
After a few minutes, Sephiroth pulled back and retrieved a green orb from his pocket. "Everything has reconnected properly. I'll cast a Full Cure then we can move him somewhere more comfortable and I'll start the IV."
"Alright," nodded the redhead.
"I'm going to go see how Cissnei is doing," Rude stated, standing.
"Thanks for helping Rude," Reno said, looking up at his partner with a weak smile.
"That's what partner's do. Take care of him," the big Turk said before exiting the kitchen and apartment.
"Shit," Reno exclaimed as a Full Cure spell rushed over him.
"What's wrong?" Sephiroth asked.
"Still… had… injuries," panted the redhead, feeling muscles tighten and things twitch. His palm itched fiercely and he started to scratch it until he remembered cutting himself on Genesis's blade. It's healin'.
"Why didn't you say something?"
"Forgot."
"Genesis is healed. Lay down."
"Huh?" The Turk questioned in confusion. He was even more confused when a hand gently pushed him backward and straightened his legs. Before his muddled mind could formulate a thought, a spell rushed over him and he couldn't decide if it was pleasant or if it hurt.
"Reno? Reno wake up," Sephiroth called, lightly smacking the Turk's cheek. He was surprised the redhead passed out, as that hadn't happened before. Of course he wasn't used to dealing with people without enhancements so maybe he'd overdone it. I hope I didn't hurt him.
"Wha'?" the redhead groggily asked.
"Wake up. You passed out."
"I did?"
"Yes."
"Ifrit's Fire what was that?"
"A cure spell."
"Fuckin' strong cure spell yo," Reno replied, sitting up and rubbing his face. "Should you have done that? Professor Rayleigh might not have completely healed me for a reason."
"She probably couldn't ensure she removed any infection."
"You can?"
"Yes."
"How am I gonna explain that when I go in for my checkup?"
"You were working with Tseng on the Directive's, I noticed you seemed to have some discomfort, and I healed you."
"That's simple enough," said Reno, stretching his arms over his head. "Thanks. I feel great! Better than I've felt in awhile even."
"You are welcome," Sephiroth replied, taking a clean towel to the kitchen sink to wet it. "Will you remove his shirt?" he called over his shoulder.
"Now is hardly the time for that," Genesis weakly grinned, words not garbled in the least.
"Heh, shuddup yo," Reno grinned back, somewhat startled the STC was conscious again.
The auburn sluggishly sat up and helped Reno remove his shirt, not bothering to open his eyes. "I'm tired."
"Sleep," said Sephiroth, squatting down in front of the auburn.
"On the floor?"
"I'll put you in bed once you're clean," Reno stated, kissing Genesis's forehead.
"Ok," replied the auburn, wiggling his pants down.
"What are ya doin'?" Reno asked in amusement.
"There's blood on my pants. I can feel it."
"Oh, I'll get yer sleep pants," Reno replied, standing and briskly walking to the bedroom. By the time he'd returned Genesis had moved away from the pooled blood and was sitting bare assed on the floor with his head on Sephiroth's shoulder. His pants were still covering his front though and the SSC was removing any remaining blood with the towel. "He pass out again?" "No," Genesis sighed. "My head's heavy."
Reno grinned and looked at Sephiroth. "Stand him up and I'll help change his pants."
Sephiroth nodded and pulled Genesis upright without effort. The STC wrapped his arms around him and leaned forward for support while the Turk helped him change. It was strange to have someone so close to him, even if they were injured.
"Dizzy," whispered Genesis, gripping onto Sephiroth as tight as he could.
"Done," Reno stated, straightening up.
Sephiroth nodded. "You're going to get dizzier," he said to Genesis before picking him up completely. The STC made a noise that sounded suspiciously like a giggle while he carried him bridal style into the bedroom. He laid him on the bed and took the blood bags from Reno to prepare them.
"Go to sleep Gen," the redhead said, sitting down next to him on the bed.
"I can't be late in the morning," the auburn muttered.
"I'll wake you," Reno replied, kissing him on the cheek and standing.
Sephiroth took the Turk's place and easily started the IV. He hung the bag on a bedpost, stood, and faced Reno. "I must stay for awhile and change the bag when it is empty."
"Make yourself at home yo," Reno replied. The two made their way to the living room. Sephiroth sat in one of the chairs while Reno plopped down on the couch with a sigh. "How'd you know what blood type he is?"
"I checked his file," said the silver, turning his head to face the door before it slid open and Tseng entered.
"How is he?"
"He seems ok. Just sleepy yo."
"Thank Leviathan," Tseng sighed. He paused before asking the silver, "Are you going to file an incident report?"
"I had not planned on it. I'm sure it was an accident or a misunderstanding," Sephiroth stated.
"He did that too-fast-movement thing and Cissnei just… reacted," confirmed the redhead.
Sephiroth nodded. "I've attacked him before."
"You have?" Reno said curiously.
"He snuck up on me and I flipped him over my head. I almost attacked him once or twice before that as well," confirmed the silver.
"Damn. You really need ta work with him yo," Reno said, sinking back into the couch.
"Yes."
"Are you going to file a report Reno?" Tseng asked.
"No."
"Very well. Please tell STC Rhapsodos I wish to speak with him sometime tomorrow."
Reno nodded. "What time does his class start?"
"1100 hours," Sephiroth replied.
"Alright," nodded Reno, turning his head to face Tseng. "I might be a little late tomorrow but I'll be there yo."
"Understood," Tseng said before exiting the apartment.
"So what now?" asked the redhead, looking at Sephiroth.
"We wait."
"I'll make dinner then," Reno replied and Sephiroth nodded. The redhead made his way to the kitchen and started preparing food. Being busy helped take his mind off the incident and the sleeping SOLDIER in his bed, though not completely. Nothing would as even if Sephiroth said he was fine he would worry until he saw it for himself. He chopped onions to sauté and sighed, deciding it was going to be a long night.