Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, scenery, or towns; Square Enix does.

36 – Bloody Stalkers

Reno took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and tilted his head back as he waited for the elevator to descend. He was jittery and anxious, like he hadn't slept for three days and the only thing that was keeping him going was caffeine. The redhead racked his brain trying to find the source of his tension but failed. He figured he had to be missing something, forgetting something, but for the life of him he couldn't pin it. With his luck it was some big ass board meeting or something.

The elevator dinged, the doors whooshed open, and Reno stepped out of the carriage. A chill ran down his spin as he looked down the desolate hallway that led to his office on the 52nd floor. The hell is everyone? Instinctively his eyes landed on the clock mounted at the end of the hall and his eyebrow lifted; the second, minute, and hour hands were in constant motion. "Ookkaay," he said, pulling out his PHS only to discover it was dead.

Reno replaced his phone, uprooted his legs, and took a few hesitant steps forward. He squinted as the fluorescent lights overhead began to flicker off and on at different intervals. His heart began to race and he swallowed loudly, wondering if the other Turks were playing some kind of joke on him. That has to be it.

"Alrigh' ya got me yo!" the Turk called, hating that his voice wavered. Sound like a cowardly child. Reno chuckled nervously into the silence, thinking he needed to lay off the horror movies for a while. They were taking a serious toll on his imagination.

He began to move forward again and had taken no more than ten steps when every door in the hallway slid open then slammed shut. Some repeated the action while others stayed either open or closed. There was a rustling sound as a sudden wind whirled around him, bringing with it papers from Shiva knew where.

Unsure of what to do Reno sprinted to his office. He flew through the open door and plummeted. Freefalling out of control he scrunched his eyes closed and waited for impact or for his heart to explode; whichever came first. His hair lashed his face with such force it stung and the noise in his ears was deafening.

Frustrated he yelled, "Stop, stop damnit!" A second later his eyes flew open and his jaw dropped. He hadn't expected to stop but he had! The redhead bounced upward a few feet like he'd hit an invisible trampoline, then he was simply hovering in darkness. "Holy shit," he breathed, fighting back a fit of nervous laughter as his arms pin wheeled in the air.

Heart beating dangerously out of control Reno once again closed his eyes and forced himself to relax. Even though he knew he had to be dreaming, calming down was a hell of a lot harder to do than it sounded. After what seemed like an eternity, he wasn't exactly relaxed, but at least he could focus.

The Turk started to open his eyes when searing pain shot through his entire body. He couldn't pinpoint the source of the sensation, only that it felt like he had tiny needles moving around under his skin. All he could do was grit his teeth as tears leaked out of his eyes and fell into the darkness below him.

Reno sucked in air like a man who'd been underwater too long but had managed to break the surface. Then, as quickly as the pain had begun, it vanished, leaving him reeling from confusion. What in hell is going on, he thought, regaining his breath as his thoughts began to spin out of control.

"You are running out of time."

"What?" the redhead called, spinning in the blackness. He squinted this way and that but saw nothing in the inky dark. "Where are you? Who are you?"

"Act Sanguine. Act now before it is too late."

Suddenly Reno was aware of a dull ache in his wrists. He tried to move them but the pain became worse so he stopped. Hades what now?

"Reno!"

The Turk stilled at the new noise. It sounded so distant it took him a minute to figure out it was a voice. He tried to put a face to it but failed. The faint smell of cedar and copper wafted to him and while they seemed familiar, he couldn't place that either.

"Come on Reno, wake up."

Wake up? the redhead thought, mind still beyond the ability to comprehend. The ache in his wrists subsided slightly but didn't vanish entirely. He also became aware of a heavy weight pressed against him and it took the remainder of his willpower to not fight against it. Panic will get you nowhere.

Calling up every ounce of his training Reno managed to get his mind to once again process data. A dream. Just a dream. "I'ma wake," he mumbled. Even to his unbalanced senses he sounded drunk. It felt like someone had glued his eyes shut but he finally managed to get them open. After a few blinks his vision was mostly clear and he fought not to jump as his eyes locked onto glowing green orbs.

"Can you hear me? Do you know who I am?"

Reno nodded as his mind supplied a name at last. "Sephiroth?" It sounded like 'sleph-ear-oth' but the silver haired man nodded, slowly removed his hands, and slid backward. "Wha' 'appened?"

" I… stopped being able to sense you."

"Sense me?" the Turk parroted, finally gaining control of his tongue. His body felt like it weighed a million pounds but at least he knew where he was and that he was safe. After a few minutes he tried to sit up but as soon as he started to push himself up pain shot through his wrists and he winced, falling backward. "Itai, itai, itai."

"My apologies," the silver quickly mumbled. He unsheathed his sword and turned the hilt toward the Turk. "Place a hand on it."

"What?" the Turk breathed, sucking in a breath and rubbing his hands across his face. His wrists ached dully but the irritation helped clear his head, as did the slight jab from the silver's weapon. "Okay, okay," he muttered, lowering his hands and touching the hilt. He sighed as a Cure spell washed over him. "Thanks yo."

"Least I could do since your injuries were my doing."

"Yeah… about that…"

"When you… disappeared… I tried calling your name and shaking you. That failed so I tried the next option: pain."

"Guess it worked yo."

The SSC watched as Reno sat up and then stood. He swayed a bit but quickly centered himself and took a few tentative steps. "No, you woke on your own. You showed zero response to outside stimulus."

"Shit," the redhead muttered, rubbing his face again.

"You don't seem the slightest bit surprised."

"Somethin' like that's sorta happened to me before."

"Sort of?"

"The last time I was awake and I don't know if I fell off anyone's Mako-dar."

"I see. When did this happen?"

"Gongaga. Hollander was givin' me an exam. One second we were talkin', the next he was askin' me if I was there. I didn't think much about it, I mean I had the flu, or at least thought I did, so I figured I just zoned out. Lookin' back there coulda been more too it though. The incident peaked Hollander's curiosity or he knew more than he was sayin'. Maybe both."

"Explain."

"After the checkup the guy made somebody babysit me all the time. Tried fer one of his lackey's but Tseng didn't play along and Rude got the job yo."

"Interesting," Sephiroth replied, heading into the kitchen to stir the soup. "It never happened before that?" The Turk shook his head. "This is the first time it's happened since?"

"Yea-, n-, I dunno. There was one other time after that I had a hard time wakin' up. Rude had to shake me ta get my attention but I'm not sure if it's related. In Gongaga right after I started feelin' better I fell asleep and Rude had ta shake me to get me to focus. It was like I was there but wasn't."

"You don't think the incidents are connected?"

"Like I said I really don't know but I think that one might have had more to do with my connection to Gen than anything else. I woke up panicking and my skin and eyes felt like they'd been dipped in acid yo."

Sephiroth nodded in understanding. The Turk didn't want to say it but he believed that might have been when Genesis got an overdose of Mako. After a moment's thought he agreed. While his mind continued to spin he placed a strainer onto a small saucepan and ladled soup into it.

So far the silver hadn't asked Reno what happened because it mostly seemed self explanatory. The Turk had fallen asleep, had a dream, and all hell broke loose. The parts that weren't self-explanatory neither of them could answer right now. He flashed back on the incident when Genesis had difficulty waking after a brief period of sleep. It was possible the episodes were similar, however that would imply Reno's Mako was imbalanced. While possible, he didn't think so. For whatever reason he felt there was more to this incident but for the life of him he couldn't figure out what.

Reno idly watched the SSC while he tried to fathom how and why he'd temporarily vanished from the silver's senses. He was beyond the ability to believe in coincidence, at least for the moment, so it had to mean something right? But what? He arched an eyebrow as Sephiroth began pouring the freshly strained broth into a sippy cup before ladling soup into two bowls. The hell did he get a sippy cup? "Seph?"

"Yes?"

"You remember us talkin' about the spike of Mako you tracked?"

"Of course."

"Right after it moved and before you sensed Genesis, did you feel me? My presence or whatever?"

"No. I didn't feel anything until after it had gone. What are you thinking?"

"Give me awhile, then we'll talk yo," the Turk replied. Was it possible that Sephiroth hadn't been able to sense him on Mt. Coral because he'd been too close to the entity that had possessed Gen? If so, what did that mean and could it help explain what just happened?

"Very well," Sephiroth replied, finished setting the table. "We'll eat first, then try to feed Genesis."

"Works for me," grinned the Turk. He didn't think Gen would mind and he felt like his stomach was chewing on itself. Besides it would give the broth time to cool. "I'm freakin' starvin'."

"Aren't you always?"

"Now that ya mention it, I am yo," Reno beamed, digging in.

As soon as Tseng was certain the copter was powering down he bolted out the door and made his way toward Rude, who was standing just outside one of the perimeter fences surrounding the airfield. He started to call over his shoulder at the nameless employees but they'd already taken charge of the bird. From what he could see they were well trained and efficient so he moved on, having little doubt the machine was in good hands. The Wutain cleared the fence and kept walking, Rude seamlessly falling into step beside him. "Anything?"

"No. Angeal used a cover story to ask around town about a blond teenager but turned up nothing."

"What was the cover?"

"That a gang of teenagers are running amuck, performing acts of vandalism and burglary."

"Had anyone spotted a youth matching your description they probably would have said something then. No one likes having their possessions destroyed or stolen."

"Exactly, but like I said he turned up nothing. I didn't join in the canvass because I thought that might be suspicious. Turks don't handle low level crime." His boss nodded agreement so he continued. "While Hewley was out I re-questioned the guards. I really don't think they know anything Boss. They're still being detained though."

"Unfortunately you are probably correct."

"How do you want to proceed?" inquired Rude, stopping outside of the Vice President's apartment.

"I have no idea." Normally he would issue a bulletin advising all Shinra personnel to be on the lookout for the VP. Do to certain circumstances he didn't want to do that just yet. Whether Rufus had taken off on his own or someone had gotten him, the guards on duty would look like fools and by extension so would the Turks. He did not need that headache right now. If something didn't turn up by dark he'd have no choice however.

"I know he's Code Zero, but maybe we should think about contacting Reno."

"His presence is far too risky right now."

"Boss he's Class A Hacker. He could easily get into any security system in Junon no matter where he is."

"We can just as easily review the recordings and logs from here."

"True, but it'd draw attention in a big way."

Tseng paused. Rude was right of course. Unlike Reno they would have to physically go to many of the security systems, as quite a few were owned by individuals or shops unaffiliated with Shinra. That was bound to attract attention and eventually someone might piece together what was going on. Even so he didn't want to expose Reno, or for that matter anyone else, to unnecessary danger. If someone was after the redhead who knew to what extent they might go to obtain him. "I will take it under advisement," he finally said.

Rude nodded and pulled a stack of neatly folded documents from his inner pocket. "Harbor and airfield logs for the past week as well as the manifests for any vessel entering or exiting the city."

Tseng fought a scowl. "That probably drew attention."

The bald Turk shook his head. "Give me some credit. I told the Chief Controller and Harbor Master that Shinra was investigating individuals suspected of aiding AVALANCHE. Right now no one, regardless of whether they're a company or an individual, wants to even be remotely connected with AVALANCHE so they tripped over their own feet to get me the lists, lest they look suspicious."

For the first time since he arrived the Wutain smiled. "Good man," he said, taking the documents from Rude. He moved away from the front door and stood in a shadow to quickly scan the pages. At first glance nothing set off any warning bells but on his second look over one name seemed to jump off the page. While unusual, it didn't necessarily mean anything and he eventually handed the documents back to his subordinate. "Go over these in more detail."

Rude nodded, took the papers, and the pair entered Rufus's apartment. Tseng immediately performed a thorough walkthrough, but as expected he didn't find anything unusual or any clues as to Rufus's whereabouts. Trusting Rude's interrogation skill and intuition he sent the guards home on indefinite unpaid leave pending further investigation. It would be easy to simply fire them, however he wasn't convinced incompetence had anything to do with Rufus's disappearance. The VP had been watching Turks sneak around his entire life and likely had picked up some skills of his own over the years. Aside from that, anyone wishing to kidnap him would use a team with skills on par with that of the Turks. Like it or not normal guards simply weren't trained to deal with groups of that nature. It was the equivalent of pitting a civilian against a SOLDIER in battle. Chances are the civilian would lose, and badly.

With a sigh the Wutain pulled a bottle of tea from the refrigerator. Leaning against the counter he closed his eyes and took a sip as he tried to piece things together. Originally he'd agreed with Rude and thought perhaps Rufus was toying with his new guards. Yet if that were the case the VP would have turned up by now or he would have left a clue to the Turks, whom he knew would eventually be called in. Since nothing like that had happened he was becoming more and more concerned. Whether he liked it or not it appeared as though he was going to have to issue a BOLO, notify the President, and lockdown the harbor and airfield.

Tseng finished his tea and strode into the living room where Rude was hunched over the coffee table, eying various documents. "Anything so far?"

"Not yet."

"Keep at it. In the meantime I am going to head to the office."

"Boss?" Rude asked, looking up.

"It has been almost a day, maybe more since we do not know when Rufus vanished. I have no choice. With any luck we will simply be asked to resign."

Rude nodded, knowing the President and almost half the board still had it out for the Turks. Unfortunately, Lady Luck hadn't exactly been smiling on them lately. They were more likely to be beheaded than asked to resign. He swore if Rufus was pulling one of his stunts, he was going to beat the shit out of him the first chance he got.

"The longer we wait the worse the consequences may be. I fear I have waited too long already," Tseng added, sensing Rude's uneasiness. "I will keep you informed. In the meantime stay here and let me know if anything turns up."

"Understood."

Hiding his dejection the Wutain exited the VP's apartment and headed toward the Turks Junon office. The office was located in one of the many nondescript six story brick buildings that faced the main thoroughfare through Junon. The building had no affiliation with the Shinra Company and was primarily an apartment complex, though a few shops operated out of the ground and lower levels.

Calling the space the Turks occupied an office was a bit of a stretch, as it was actually a three-bedroom apartment which had been converted to suit the Turks needs. Veld had originally leased the space and it had been used as a safe house for those under Turk protection. Safe houses were routinely moved however, but instead of letting the apartment go Veld decided to use it as a place for Turks staying in Junon to crash or simply a place to get away from Shinra's prying eyes. Over time it had morphed into more of an office than an apartment.

Today only the smallest room remained a bedroom and contained nothing more than a twin bed, a nightstand, a small closet, and a small dresser. The second largest room had been turned into storage space. One wall was lined with shelves that contained paper, ink cartridges, and other office supplies. The rest of the space was overrun by a maze of filing cabinets containing data on a plethora of subjects. The largest room was the office and included as many amenities as could be crammed into the space. There was a large 'L' shaped desk which held three computers, two all-in-one machines, three phones, and various small office essentials, such as staplers. There were two bookshelves stuffed with three-ring binders and the rest of the space was taken up by two more filing cabinets and three desk chairs.

Ten minutes after leaving Rufus's apartment, Tseng arrived at the office/apartment and entered quietly. The Wutain shut the door and peered into the small living room and kitchen. These areas remained unchanged from their original purpose and to anyone visiting the place they looked perfectly normal, as did the bathroom. From what the Wutain could see there wasn't anything unusual or out of place so he moved down the hallway without bothering to remove his shoes. The place was mostly an office after all. Besides, he didn't intend to stick around any longer than required.

Tseng paused at the mouth of the hallway. Of the four doors, half were closed. It wasn't the doors that gave him pause though, as it was normal to shut the office and storage doors, it was the task ahead. Leviathan how he dreaded informing the President of the current situation. It wasn't the Turks fault, as none of them had been on sight, but he knew that wouldn't matter and they'd be blamed nonetheless. In fact he'd probably get reamed for not having at least one Turk in Junon. In truth he agreed with that, however other matters had taken precedence, namely the mess in Gongaga and AVALANCHE, not to mention Reno's current predicament. Whatever that is exactly. Sadly he didn't know many of the details but he trusted his instincts and they said the redhead was neck deep in some kind of mess or another. Leave it to Reno. Regardless, it wasn't that Rufus wasn't a priority; there were just too few Turks these days.

The Wutain righted his drooping shoulders and entered the bathroom. After using the facilities, he washed his hands and glanced at his reflection. The wind had been gusting off the sea and had taken a toll on his hair. He removed the tie, smoothed it, and started to retie it when he noticed the band was almost worn through. It would probably snap while he tried to re-secure it. Annoyed, he threw the band away, deciding it would be best to buy a new one later. In the meantime he could probably dig something up in the apartment. Rubber band will do.

Wondering what other annoyances awaited him this day, Tseng exited the bathroom, crossed the hall, and opened the office door. Though the sun was still up the curtains were drawn and there was no light on in the room, making it almost pitch black. There wasn't enough light filtering in from the hallway so he flipped the switch to the right of the door but nothing happened. Light must be burnt out. It wasn't surprising since he couldn't remember the last time anyone had come here. Judging by the stale air and the thick dust coating everything it had been awhile.

Tseng quickly walked to the desk and started to turn on a desk lamp when he felt something on the back of his neck. Figuring it was a spider or cobweb he jerked his hand up but stopped midair at a voice directly behind him.

"Slowly put your hands were I can see them then don't move."

Not recognizing the voice the Wutain did as he was told. He spared a thought as to how anyone had bested him but quickly let it slide. He wasn't foolish enough to think that he was better than everyone on Gaia. There were those out there with skills equal to or better than his own and he damn well knew it.

"Take one step to the left, and then use your left hand to turn on the light. Keep your right hand where I can see it and remember: no sudden movement."

Tseng compiled while calculating the odds of taking down his foe. He was confident in his abilities, however he had no clue what the guy behind him was capable of. On top of that, he didn't know what kind of weapon the guy was using nor did he know how twitchy he was. If nothing else it was best to play along until an opening presented itself. Better safe than sorry, he thought, turning on the light.

"Tseng?"

The Wutain quickly spun, recognizing the new voice. "Rufus?"

"Son of a Gaia-less whore," Rufus sputtered. "What the fuck are you doing here? Why isn't your hair tied back? I almost fucking shot you for Planet's Sake!"

"Mouth," Tseng snapped, looking around. "I could ask you the same thing. Where is the second person?"

"Second person?" parroted Rufus, face scrunching in confusion.

"Do not play coy."

"There isn't anyon… oh… oh!" The VP lifted his right hand, where a palm sized black device lay. "You mean this? It's called a voice modulator Tseng."

"Leviathan's Scales Rufus," Tseng breathed. He couldn't tell if he was more relieved or irritated. "What are you doing here? How did you even know about this place?"

"To answer the second question, Reno. As to the first, it's complicated."

"Uncomplicate it."

"Someone's following me and almost got into my apartment. I saw them Tseng."

"Did you tell the guards?"

"Of course I told them," Rufus scowled.

"I apologize. Please continue."

"One day I went out to talk to some employees, trying to gain support within the company, you know?" The Wutain nodded. "While I was out I swear there were people following me. At least two of them, if not three. It was weird. Anyway, I pointed them out to the guards but didn't think much of it beyond that. I mean, I've had stalkers before, not that many at once, but still." Once again the Wutain nodded. "Later that night I saw someone outside one of my bedroom windows. The guy or whoever must have seen me as well because he bolted. I yelled at the guards and two of them walked around the perimeter while two more waited inside with me. They didn't find anything so they told me I was mistaken. It was probably a reflection or some such nonsense. They obviously think I'm just another spoiled little rich kid with an overactive imagination."

Tseng couldn't hide his scowl at that. Rich? Yes. Spoiled? Perhaps. Overactive imagination? Hardly. In fact one of the things that had always impressed the Wutain was the fact that Rufus was so well grounded. "Why did you not call me?"

"I… I didn't know if you'd believe me either."

"Why would I not?"

"I thought you might think I was making shit up just to get you here. I did try to get in touch with Reno but he never responded. I snapped, took matters into my own hands, and left. I didn't take my PHS with me, though I admit I should have called from here or something. I guess I thought I could handle it own my own."

"Reno is Code Zero and while the thought may have crossed my mind that you were seeking attention, I still would have come. You have never cried wolf before Rufus."

"True," the VP sighed. "I wasn't thinking clearly okay?"

"You were thinking well enough since you remembered your PHS could be used to track you. As for handling it on your own," Tseng waggled his hand, "I admit there was a bit of a lapse there. Protecting you is not merely my job; it is the job of every Turk. If you were unwilling to reach out to me and cannot get in touch with Reno, there is still Rude, Elena, and Cissnei."

"You're right," Rufus sighed. "I'm sorry."

"An apology is not required Rufus. All I ask is that you learn from your mistakes. Your actions were adequate this time but next time do better."

Rufus blinked at the reproach. Usually if he didn't do something perfectly his father yelled at him. He'd call him ignorant and useless while pointing out everything he'd done wrong. He was not used to someone understanding he was human and would therefore make mistakes. As such he wasn't sure how to respond. He tried to speak a few times but failed. Finally he closed the distance between himself and the Wutain and wrapped his left arm around him with a sigh. For the first time in two days he relaxed. I'm safe.

Tseng rested his chin on top of the VP's head and most of the tension drained from his body. Thank Leviathan he's okay. He gently removed the gun from Rufus's right hand and immediately the arm snaked around his waist. After a few moments of peace his mind returned to business. "Do you have any idea who may have been following you?" The blond's head shifted from left to right. "Has anyone been giving you more attention than usual? Have you pissed anyone off lately?"

"Aside from my father? No. No one's been paying me much notice either," Rufus mumbled into the Wutain's chest.

"I highly doubt your father is behind this. Unfortunately that leaves well over half the Planet on the suspect list."

"Not making me feel better here Tseng," mumbled Rufus, detangling from the Turk and taking a few steps back.

"I apologize," the Wutain replied, removing his PHS and typing on the keypad.

"What are you doing?"

"Notifying Rude that you have been located and that we will return shortly."

"Oh," the VP chuckled. "At least one of us is using their head."

"Stop being so hard on yourself Rufus. You did what you thought was best."

The ash blond sighed and watched as Tseng continued to input his message to Rude. It wasn't that he didn't believe the Turk, rather right now all he could see was everything that he should have done differently. By the time the Wutain had finished with his message, he felt like his head was going to explode.

Tseng put his PHS away and battled a grin at the petulant expression on the blond's face. Wherever his thoughts were he obviously wasn't pleased with them. He placed the index finger of his right hand under Rufus's chin and gently tilted his face up. The VP stared at him expectantly and suddenly he wasn't sure what to say. If he were a Turk he'd tell him to stop dwelling on it, but that would probably just annoy Rufus. Hell, it would annoy some Turks but he was admittedly less concerned about their feelings. Unable to find the correct words, Tseng leaned forward and pressed his lips against the blond's. At first the VP didn't respond, but soon he felt him melt into the kiss. When he finally pulled back Rufus's face was placid. "We should get back."

"I guess," the blond sighed. "I could use a shower and a change of clothes anyway," he added, playing with Tseng's hair. "You never did tell me why your hair is down."

"The tie was frayed."

After another brief kiss, Rufus turned and exited the room with Tseng not far behind him. He wasn't sure how he felt about going home but he couldn't hide forever. Even if he could it would make him feel like more of a coward than he already did.

"These are your new guards," Tseng said shortly after arriving back at the VP's apartment. Rufus nodded but said nothing as he eyed the 16 newcomers. "You have all been briefed?" There was a chorus of 'yes, sir's' before the Wutain dismissed them. Angeal and Rude stayed behind.

"That's a lot of guards," Rufus muttered after they were gone. "Where'd you dig them up from?"

"You need not worry about that. Twelve and eight."

"If you say so," grumbled the VP. He supposed Tseng had reason for not telling him where the guards came from but it was irritating nonetheless. "Where are the others staying?" he finally asked, knowing twelve and eight meant eight would be on duty at once and they would work 12 hour shifts.

"In the apartment across the road. They can be here in two minutes or less." The VP said nothing and he added, "They are highly trained and experienced in situations like this, therefore they will be more effective than your current guards. Rude, SSC Hewley, and myself are staying as well."

"More than anything that makes me feel better," the blond replied, smiling slightly. "So, can I take a shower now?"

"Of course, but keep the blinds shut. They are reinforced with metal and much harder to get through than glass."

"Alright."

Tseng waited for Rufus to leave the room before turning to Rude. "Did anything turn up during your perimeter search?"

"We found some fresh scuff marks but that's all. Nothing to indicate where the intruder came from or went to. Any ideas?" Rude replied.

"Unfortunately we are not lacking in suspects. If anything the list is too large."

"Maybe Angeal and I should hit the street again, see if can turn up anything." The Wutain nodded consent. "You got any normal clothes SOLDIER? You didn't turn up jack in a SOLDIER uniform but undercover might be a different story. Especially at night. Different crowd and all."

"I picked some up earlier, just in case."

"Good thinking," Tseng said to Angeal. "Go ahead and change. If you need anything, pick it up while you are out. Until further notice you will be staying here."

"Here, Sir?"

"Yes here. Rufus does not bite,"

"That's not- I didn't mea-"

"I know what you meant SOLDIER," replied Tseng, waving the comments off. "Rude and I will be staying here as well, however your skills may be required. This is your only priority. I've already cleared it with Director Deusericus. In other words, you are not accepting missions at this time."

"Understood. So, ah, where should I change?"

"I need to change too so I'll show you. You'll be staying in the same room," Rude said, gesturing toward the hallway. The pair stopped at Tseng's words.

"Angeal? I know you are concerned about Genesis and I do not blame you. Keep in mind he is in good hands however."

"I know," the SSC sighed. "If you hear anythi-"

"I will notify you," Tseng finished for him.

"Thank you."

While the duo changed the Wutain preformed a walkthrough of the apartment, making sure all windows and doors were sealed and locked. He placed glass pieces or heavy objects on top of many of the windows, ensuring that they could not be opened without noise. For the doors and large windows he placed motion sensing devices. By the time he was finished Angeal and Rude had finished changing and left.

A few idle moments later Tseng glanced at his watch. It wasn't unusual for Rufus to take long baths, however he didn't want him out of his sight for too long right now, precautions be damned. As he debated on whether to interrupt the VP's bathing he heard the door open and footfalls head toward the bedroom. After a moment he headed in that direction, but hesitated at the closed door. Rufus probably had no idea they were alone or he'd probably have left the door open. Unfortunately their relationship was still too new for him to be comfortable simply barging in unannounced. He couldn't decide whether to laugh or scowl at the manners his parents had instilled in him as he finally knocked.

"Who is it?"

"Tseng."

"Enter," called Rufus, standing in front of a floor length mirror with a towel wrapped around his waist. "The hell did you knock for?" he asked when he saw the Wutain's reflection behind him. "Could have just come in," he chuckled. He chuckled again at the Turk's shrug.

Tseng watched as the blond grabbed a second towel off a dresser and dried his hair. When he was finished he tossed the towel aside and ran fingers through his still damp hair. The Wutain was fairly certain he couldn't look away if he tried. Every move Rufus made seemed to mesmerize him and while he chided himself for acting like a love struck puppy he couldn't seem to help it. Or maybe he just didn't want to help it.

Busy rubbing moisturizer on his face Rufus jumped as Tseng's fingertips played along his upper arms. He quickly finished his task and leaned his head into the solid chest behind him. "I'm sorry I worried you."

"Think nothing of it."

The VP wiggled and twisted until he was facing Tseng. "What's that look about?" he asked, unable to decipher it himself.

The Turk glanced into the mirror before answering. "It is my resolve."

"Resolve?"

"I have always worried about you and that has not, nor will it, change. When I decided to give into temptation I further resolved to love you, no matter what. That means I accept the good with the bad."

"You make me sound like a demon that lured you from the light."

"Perhaps you are," Tseng replied, running his fingers through Rufus's hair. "If that is the case then I will revel in the darkness with you by my side."

Rufus didn't know how to respond and thankfully he didn't have to ponder it too long. His thoughts turned to smoke as the Wutain leaned forward and joined their mouths together. Instinctively his eyelids lowered and his lips parted slightly. A heartbeat later their tongues were twining together slowly.

Merely watching the ash blond had given Tseng a hard on. The fact that he could do more than watch made anticipation and desire flare though his entire body. Before long he found himself acting on his attraction. As the kiss gained a life of its own, his hands slowly explored Rufus's body. Eventually his need began to take control and his right hand dipped until it found the towel around the VP's waist. With a tug the obstacle was removed. Moments later, he grabbed the naked form around the waist and headed across the room. He lightly tossed Rufus onto the bed then began removing his tie.

While the Wutain undressed Rufus scurried across the bed on hands and knees. He reached a nightstand, dug around in it, and removed a tube of lotion. The blond started to move backward but was stopped by hands on his rump. He tossed a glance over his shoulder and chuckled. "Do all Turks learn how to undress exceedingly fast?"

"It is an acquired skill," Tseng replied, taking the tube of lotion. He squeezed some onto his fingers before eagerly caressing Rufus's opening.

Rufus gasped as a finger slipped past his barrier. Before he could turn his heard forward Tseng once again captured his mouth. At the same time the finger dipped deeper inside and he moaned as his tongue lazily explored the foreign cavity.

Tseng waged an internal war as he prepared Rufus to receive him. He wanted to drill into him right now but managed to control himself. He wasn't sure if his celibate months were catching up to him or whether it was finally admitting that he had longed for the VP for quite awhile, but once his bottled up libido had been released it was like an open flood gate and he could barely contain it. The only thing keeping him in check was the fact that the blond was still new to this and he was unsure whether Rufus liked a little pain with his pleasure or not.

The VP was forced to break the kiss for air and he groaned as the Turk added a second digit. He was so hard his member was ignoring gravity and pressing into his stomach. The fact that Tseng apparently wanted him very, very, badly was working as a major aphrodisiac. He'd be lying if he didn't say that the sight of the man partially unglued wasn't a huge turn on. Hell, it made him partially unglued. "Hurry," he breathed.

Tseng chuckled and finished his task as quickly as he dared. By the time he lined himself up his cock was throbbing and weeping, needing Rufus almost as much as the rest of him did. An immense sense of relief washed over him as he began pushing his way inside. When he was buried to the hilt, he bent forward, pressing his chest to Rufus's back and wrapping arms around him. The scent of shampoo, soap, and skin was intoxicating and he inhaled deeply.

Unable to bare it any longer, the VP wiggled his ass. Tseng lifted his body upward and slowly withdrew himself, then pressed back inside. Wanting something to grip Rufus grabbed a pillow and squeezed as he groaned in pleasure. He felt all of his limbs flush as a passionate fire smoldered just beneath his skin.

The Wutain moved in and out of Rufus while his hands roamed over the blond's sides and back. The skin beneath his fingers was smooth and warm and he couldn't seem to get enough of it. Without disconnecting, he sat on his haunches, pulling the VP upright in the process. The position once again pressed his chest against Rufus's back as the blond was forced to straddle him in reverse. His hands slid to the VP's waist, then to his upper legs where he began rubbing the inside of his thighs.

A long moan escaped Rufus as the new position left Tseng literally impaling him. He bent his own legs backward, trapping the Wutain between them. He briefly wondered about the pressure on the man's knees but decided he didn't give a damn right now. The Turk would reposition them if he needed to and it felt too fucking good to care much beyond that. The blond reached his right arm backward and locked it behind the Turk's neck, resting the back of his head on a shoulder. He placed his left hand on Tseng's left hip and used all three spots as support while he moved himself up and down the shaft inside him.

Rufus found his stride and arched his back without missing a beat. Tseng marveled at the young VP's apparently newfound confidence. They'd only slept together twice but both times the blond had appeared slightly uncomfortable and self-conscience. The man that now rode him didn't spare a thought to baring his body and seeking the pleasure he craved. Maybe it was simply the sensations but he felt that perhaps the VP was starting to become more comfortable and self-assured in his own skin. Regardless of the why, the Wutain absolutely loved it.

The VP moaned as the Turk gently wrapped his left hand around his neck. His entire body had become more sensitive, pulsating with pleasure. Tseng's member was grazing his prostate with every movement and he felt the beginnings of a powerful orgasm build within his stomach. While he longed for the release, he almost wished it wouldn't come so the ecstasy he was now feeling could last forever.

The Turk gently stroked his neck as Rufus found himself closer and closer to the edge. Wishing to hold it off a bit longer and wanting to see Tseng's face, he detached himself and faced the man behind him. Now straddling him face to face, the VP slowly lowered himself with a shudder.

"I love you," Tseng said, stroking the blond's cheek with the tips of his fingers.

"I love you too," replied Rufus before pressing their mouths together.

For a moment the pair didn't move, simply enjoying being attached to each other. Eventually the Wutain lifted upward and laid Rufus on his back. Now on top, he rested his weight on his left hand while his right roamed the body beneath him. Still locked in a kiss, he once again began gliding in and out of Rufus, savoring every inch along the way.

Time held no meaning and neither was certain how long they had been lost in their embrace. Sensing he couldn't last much longer Tseng gripped the VP's member and stroked it. It was the first time he'd touched the organ since they'd started and Rufus practically flew off the bed at the sensation. He delighted in the noises that bubbled past the blond's lips as the man finally let go. A few seconds later he buried himself deep and released as well.

Panting and exhausted Tseng finally withdrew and laid down on Rufus's right side. The VP smiled lazily with somewhat unfocused eyes. Turning onto his side he wrapped himself around him. The Turk brought his right arm up behind him, holding him tightly.

"Eh, not that it matters now, but is Hewley here?" Rufus asked once he'd gained control of his racing heart. Tseng didn't answer and he cracked his eyes open, noting a slight look of confusion on the Wutain's face. "What's wrong?"

"I was trying to decide whether I should be offended that you are asking about another man after we have just had sex."

"What?" Rufus half gasped, half chuckled. "Get real. I was just thinking about his super hearing. I mean… well you know what I'm getting at."

"I do," laughed Tseng. "No, he is not here. He and Rude left before we began and since none of the motion sensors I placed on the doors have gone off, they have not returned. Do not fret, even if he heard anything he would not say a word."

"It's not really that. I'm not sure he knows we're even dating and the guy seems uptight. Don't want him to think you're in here raping me or something."

"Ah, I see. If that is the case then do not worry about it. I highly doubt he would say or do anything and even if he does Rude is here. He would intervene."

"Never know, he might run off to my father or something."
"I suppose that is possible, however he would not dare."

"Why?"

"For several reasons, however perhaps the most pressing is Genesis Rhapsodos's relationship with Reno."

"What's that got to do with anything?"

"Think about it Rufus."

The VP did, then finally said, "Are you implying he won't mess with you because you'll mess with him worse?"

"Exactly."

"If you interfered in their relationship you'd hurt Reno."

"Not necessarily."

"Awe, damn."

"What?"

Rufus lifted his head and grinned at the Turk. "That's a total turn on."

"My plotting ways to screw someone over?"

"Yep. I fucking love that cold blooded, overly protective streak of yours."

"Hmm, I shall keep that in mind," Tseng smirked. "I see you are ready for round two. Shall we begin?"

"Round two?" The Wutain wiggled, nudging Rufus's re-swollen member. The blond blinked and his eyes widened in understanding before a devilish grin twisted his lips. "Oh hell yes."

Sephiroth stood on the hut's tiny porch and gazed into the cloudy twilight. He tilted his head and watched as two clouds seemed to race each other to some unknown destination. What I wouldn't give to be one of them, the silver sighed. Clouds weren't exactly free, as they were at the mercy of the wind, however he imagined life would be much simpler if he were a mass of water droplets. For instance, he wouldn't have to worry about things like scientists who wanted to be, or thought they already were, gods. No power hungry corporate executives either.

The SSC wondered if he'd ever been so conflicted and confused in his life. Since he couldn't recall, if he had been he must have been young enough that it had been acceptable to climb under something and hide. Isn't that what you're doing now?

The thought started him and he blinked at the ocean. His thoughts felt sluggish, like someone who was falling asleep or had just woken up. He had been hiding, or at least avoiding. Close enough. Unfortunately, he was too old for that kind of thing and had been since he was three.

A gentle ran began to fall from the sky and Sephiroth was suddenly aware of the ache in his left hand. As the rain picked up his eyes fell upon the EMR he was clutching. The thing felt strange in his hand. Too short, too light. He stared at the weapon for a moment, unable to look away from the red rivulets streaming down its length and forming a small pool at his side. Willing his limbs to move he jerked the EMR upright and collapsed it on the palm of his right hand. He closed his eyes and formed a fist around the stain left there. Minerva forgive me.

Itai – basically means ouch. XD