Days of Exile
Chapter 17 – Rescued, Rescuer, Rescuing
22 December 0007
The bleeding is never going to stop, I suppose.
Tseng found himself in a dilemma. He wanted to take a deep breath to ease the pain in his torso, but breathing was becoming too laborious. He tried to find a spot where he could begin healing himself, but his judgement was getting inaccurate.
Recite facts in your head. Tseng remembered Veld once telling him. The extra effort will keep your brain jogging.
I am Tseng, 28 years old. I am from Wutai and am working as a Turk in Shinra Electric Company…
When he ran out of facts to list, he decided to list the details of his current mission.
Elena and I were tasked to take the Keystone, the key to access the Temple of Ancients. Shinra believed that the Temple of Ancients contained information of the whereabouts of the Promised Land. We actually got in, and the murals…
Tseng remembered how every detail on the wall spoke of a clue and a piece of valuable information. He was not a scholar like some of his former Turks, but he didn't have to be one to understand what that most secretive information was. The murals made by the Ancients were simple and clear with their message.
The ultimate weapon of destruction… the magic, Meteor… Capable of wiping out an entire Planet, summoned by the Black Materia… No wonder the Temple of the Ancients is so inaccessible.
Shortly after learning all these, I sent Elena back to the HQ. That's when Sephiroth came and gave me this painful-as-hell injury. So that's why Sephiroth was looking for the Black Materia. Is that his true intentions from the beginning?
Despite his recitations, his pain did not diminish the slightest, although it made his mind clearer. In the end, Tseng leaned against the stone walls in the Temple of the Ancients and sighed in resignation.
Is this the end? At least Elena got away safely. That is, I hope she is safe.
Thinking of Elena reminded Tseng of the stupid mistake he made, something that he thought was unthinkable.
Hey Elena, how 'bout dinner after this job is over?
Elena hid her pleasure under her face… She had tried to sound professional and nonchalant about it, but Tseng knew that she was joyous. He always knew that Elena had a longtime affection for him… which was why Tseng felt an immense sense of guilt.
The hell was I thinking? He thought.
He wasn't sincere with Elena. Tseng couldn't explain what came over him to do that, but now that his mind was cleared up (thanks to Sephiroth), he realized that he made a terrible mistake.
I need to figure a way to clear up my frivolous mess. … Alana will kill me if she found out what had happened.
Tseng looked at his bleeding wound, a deep slash across his torso. Even now, he could feel his pulse throbbing madly against his chest. At least blood was not pumping out of his body, but death was not an impossibility.
Maybe first, I need to survive this madness.
A short while later, he met Cloud and the AVALANCHE. Seeing Aerith again, Tseng felt a surge of genuine affection. He cared deeply for her, to the point that many times he wondered to himself if he actually felt for her more than what he should. He had hoped against hope that someday Aerith would willingly help Shinra achieve their goals of the Promised Land, even though Tseng knew (from years of trying) that his hopes were futile. Aerith regarded the company and its people with a passionate hatred. There was no way that she would ever, ever cooperate with the people who tried to keep her and her mother in captivity.
Even so, Aerith shed tears for such a Tseng, when she saw him in such a pathetic state. She didn't see him as one of the enemies but a friend whom she had known since her childhood. It humiliated him to see that someone weaker than him pitied him, but it also comforted him to know that there were people apart from the Turks who cared for him.
Tseng entrusted the keystone to Cloud and then watched the group venture deeper into the temple, in full pursuit of Sephiroth. What else could he do, but to await his rescue or his death, whichever that was faster?
It had been some time after Cloud's party left. Tseng's breathing had begun to deepen with the increasing need of sending oxygen throughout his broken body. Time ticked by painfully, yet no sign of help came.
Once, Tseng looked at his gaping wound and gasped to himself, "I'm not dead yet." It was a bad and tasteless joke, but then any man at his deathbed should not have his jokes judged so critically.
Tseng sat there for a good half an hour, wondering many things. Especially things of the past, when his fellow comrades were around and safe. He often thought of Veld and wondered how his former mentor would've handled it. He wondered about how Reno and Rude would react if they were to find out that Tseng had never shot Veld and Elfe but secretly allowed them to escape. What if he could explain to everyone the reason why he insisted on staying in Shinra? Soon, as the minutes gone by and his wound only seem to throb harder, Tseng closed his eyes and awaited his death.
But it never came.
Instead, a wash of cool air brushed against his face. Magic. And Tseng knew that he was saved… for now.
"That was close, Tseng."
Tseng opened his eyes and came face-to-face with Cait Sith, Reeve Tuesti's robotic cat.
I'm… I'm saved.
Cait Sith was not an unfamiliar face to Tseng. Previously, Cait Sith had helped the Turks (in particular, Haato) locate one of the Support Materia, indirectly helping to thwart Zirconiade from pulverizing the Planet, but that felt like a long time ago. The exiled Turks were still around then. Even before that, Cait Sith had always been a huge resource and spying tool for Reeve. Its involvement in Shinra went all the way back to almost fifteen years ago.
Tseng asked some questions and Cait Sith answered. There were times when Cait Sith suddenly stood still and lifeless. These intervals weren't long and Reeve explained the erratic behavior. The Cait Sith that Tseng was seeing is the brand new Cait Sith used to replace the older model. The old model was currently in the Temple of the Ancients, for some reason that Tseng could not comprehend in his weakened state.
Cait Sith finished its finishing touches of curative spells, but Tseng knew that he needed real medical help. As if reading his mind, Cait Sith informed Tseng that he will send people to bring him back to Midgar. "One more thing," said Cait Sith. "My identity as a spy has been found out, but I will be staying with them. They're quite an interesting bunch. I'm very interested in what they will do." Tseng nodded. It'll be a while before he remembered what Reeve Tuesti said. "Right," grinned the cat, lifting its megaphone. "Let's get you moved somewhere." Tseng felt his body being lifted, sending such an acute pain that Tseng passed out.
When he awoke again – Tseng hated to admit – he panicked. His eyes could barely open and his vision blurred. Just what did Sephiroth do to me? He cursed to himself. If not for the fact that it was Reeve who was planning his journey back to Midgar, Tseng could be dead, or worse.
He felt a presence hovering over him and squinted. "Yo, Tseng. You look pretty beat up, man." A redhead grinned down at him. Tseng shook with recognition. That was not Reno. Tseng's lips parted to utter a response, but nothing came.
A big burly man with sandy hair approached the redhead. "Thanks for coming all the way down to help Kido and I."
"I have to." The redhead spoke. Tseng could almost imagine him swinging his EMR haphazardly. If Tseng wasn't so weak, he'll chide him for being careless with his weapon again. "You said it was a matter of life and death. This," announced the EMR user with flourish. "IS pretty life and deathy."
A third man approached the former two. Tseng didn't need to hear his voice to know who he was. Even with half-blurry vision, he could recognize the crazy hairstyle. His voice, locked in a deadpan, was the confirmation of his suspicions. "Mason, what are your plans from here?"
Many questions swam in his head. Why did Reeve contact these people, who were long banished from Midgar, and not Shinra directly? How did he even get their contacts? Just where are they taking him to? Are… Tseng thought with a small sliver of hope. Are the other forgotten Turks there too?
Apparently, in his thoughts, he did not really hear Mason's reply, because Kido immediately retorted, "We can't go there. Shinra will have us down once they spot us."
"Wrongo." Tseng heard Rod answer. "Since President Shinra is dead, technically all charges are dropped against us… right?"
Tseng wished he knew the answer too. The verdict of banishing the Turks to never enter Midgar seemed like a pretty good permanent solution. Rufus Shinra never mentioned bringing back the old Turks even when Reno was complaining of the lack of manpower. Like father like son. Perhaps Rufus too, fear the fiasco might repeat itself and decide that capping the number of Turks will help him more than hinder him.
"I admit…" Mason said with an embarrassed cough. "I can't be too sure myself."
Tseng then remembered his Full Cure Materia. The Materia had been with him the longest time, through extremely tough times. This rare Materia was also the reason why he had been alive for times when he shouldn't be. The first and only gift Veld had ever given him…
I cannot die yet. Tseng realized. Alone, he didn't have the mental capacity to cast the spell. If someone were to help him…
He tried to get the attention of Rod. "U…Uz... Full…"
"What's that?"
"Full…C… C…" When he saw that his words were slurring like a drunk, Tseng resorted to tapping his forearm, where his Titanium Bangle was beneath his sleeves.
Kido was always the sharpest to these details. Immediately, he pulled back Tseng's sleeves and examined the bangle. He did not even seem to exclaim any form of surprise at the rare Materia. "Full Cure." He reported to no one in particular. Without pausing to think, Kido pulled off the bangle and cast the spell on Tseng. Instantly, strength was restored to Tseng, but magic could only work so much on the exterior. Inside, there was still much work to be done. Tseng was far from full recovery.
"Thanks," choked Tseng.
"Don't talk too much, sir. You need your rest." Mason answered. The martial artist stretched out his hand. "Now that you feel much better, you need your sleep. Please forgive me for casting this spell."
Questions came one after another in his head but Tseng was simply too tired to ask. The sleeping spell took its effect almost instantly. It wasn't that hard when the pain in his body pleaded him to rest and the boat was rocking ever so comfortably. Soon, his fatigue gave way and he drifted in and out of sleep. At one point, he was fairly awake and he could hear them talking again.
"This is bad, and you say you are just going to abandon him after you reach Junon?" It was Rod talking.
"The Shinra medical team will help," replied Kido.
"This doesn't look like something normal medicine can help."
Mason grunted his agreement. "That is one nasty slash, after all. I can barely call out the names of those who are capable of such damage."
There was a stony silence as the three men thought of the one man capable. "Ain't impossible." Rod shrugged.
"So…" Mason trailed off.
"I guess we'll have to play by ear when we reach Junon." Tseng could imagine Rod scratching his head in frustration. "I won't count on any solution we have in our hands a good and comfortable one. I'm telling you, Cassie will NOT be excited about this."
Tseng squeezed his eyes tight and concentrated on breathing. Then, he remembered no more.
Reeve Tuesti shoved aside stacks of papers on his desk and picked up the video call from his robotic spy, Cait Sith.
"Hey, Reeve!" Cait Sith beamed. Behind Cait Sith was a dark area with walls carved with ancient runes and hieroglyphics. From the camera that was located in the Moogle's eye, Reeve had already seen the interior of the Temple of the Ancients. Still, he was impressed by the sheer architecture and design of the forgotten temple.
Cait Sith was waving at him and Reeve immediately focused again. "Hey Reeve, will Mr. Tseng be alright?"
Reeve nodded. "He will be. I've contacted one of the former Turks to help us." However, it was hard work to even track down one of them, much less convince them to help. Cait Sith, are you sure about this?" He asked uneasily.
Cait Sith frowned cheerfully, something that probably only Cait Sith could do. "Weren't you the one who suggested this?"
"I know but…" Reeve could not continue. It was brutal of him to even suggest to his old-time friend and companion to sacrifice his body. For the Temple was the Black Materia itself, it was to be shrunk and extracted out with a sacrifice.
"But nothing!" Cait Sith grinned. "I'm more than happy to do something that could help Cloud!" Cait Sith bounded across the dark corridors and finally came to the main temple, where the puzzle is. Reeve watched his robot solemnly. After a while, Cait Sith spoke, this time with less chirpiness. "You know…"
"Hm?"
"She told me to 'Be strong'." Cait Sith said, rattling on like a child going to school and not to execution. Reeve didn't have to ask who 'she' was, he was there when Cait Sith was with Cloud, Aerith the Ancient and Cid, offering to sacrifice his body.
"I guess you're happy." Reeve smiled. Being a robot, Cait Sith was obviously not treated like a human. Among Shinra executives, they referred to Cait Sith as a tool. Then again, they referred to anything and anyone as a tool. Apart from Reeve, Cloud's party was the first to treat Cait Sith like a living creature. Even when they found out that Cait Sith was a Shinra spy, they did not treat him any less of a living thing.
Cait Sith giggled. "I feel so happy." Suddenly, Cait Sith tripped over its own feet and fell. At a closer glance, Reeve realised it was because the Temple was shaking. "Owwww… What happened?"
Reeve set back on his chair with relief. "You tripped, that's all." Cait Sith took some time to regain his posture. It was hard trying to manoeuvre a large Moogle body. Reeve frowned again. "Are you sure you can do this? You are a pretty old machine, after all."
His words did not discourage the cat at all. As if to prove his point, the Moogle jumped up and down. "I can still move more." Cait Sith insisted.
Reeve raised his eyebrows. He hardly see Cait Sith so persistent about doing a task. Usually, if Reeve were to abort the task, Cait Sith will hardly argue. It would take an issue of great emotional value for Cait Sith to disobey Reeve blatantly. And it can disobey Reeve if it wanted to. He was as much a living being as a robot. Both life and programme work together to form Cait Sith. That was Reeve's secret to create robotic individual who has a better cognitive programme than any artificial intelligence.
Reeve sensed the determination behind his cat. "Alright, alright." He relented. "Move on."
Cait Sith immediately bounced towards the altar in response. From the Moogle's eyes (that was where the camera was at), the holographic temple was floating. "This must be it!" Cait Sith said excitedly. "The Ancients sure did a great job making this."
Reeve smiled. The Ancients, indeed, were great designers and architects. The Temple of the Ancients itself was a wonder. "Great job, Cait Sith." Reeve smiled. "I sure hope that we can get the Black Materia out for Cloud and the rest."
Cait Sith chuckled. "I can protect the Planet too!" It waved its arms shyly. "I'm kinda embarrassed..."
"Everyone is counting on you, Cait Sith." Reeve said. "We'll have to work the puzzle out and then..." Reeve trailed off. He had not realised just how much he'll miss Cait Sith, who had accompanied him for almost a decade. "And then it's goodbye, isn't it?"
Cait Sith looked at his master, smiling. "There's plenty of stuffed toys like my body around, but there's only one me!"
"I'm sure it's true." Reeve said, his voice full of emotion.
Cait Sith was still cheerful, as if oblivious to its pending consequence, although Reeve knew that Cait Sith was no fool. It jumped excitedly. "Don't forget me even if another Cait Sith comes along. Good bye, then! I guess I'm off to save the Planet..."
When the robotic cat turned to the holographic puzzle, Reeve did not switch off the monitor like what he usually did. He stayed, watching his robot work, and offering bits of conversation. He did not want to leave his companion to face the inevitable death alone.
Many times till today, Reeve still asked himself: Is my rebellion worth facing the wrath of the higher ups?
Each time, the answer became clearer to him: It is not worth it, but at least you're doing something you want to do, for once.
He marvelled at how he had managed to tolerate the acts of Shinra for almost a decade, but finally he had run out of tolerance. That, or because Reeve finally was responsible behind one of their recent attacks. Previously, Reeve made the decision not to be involved with the numerous scientific experiments and unethnical recruitment of SOLDIER. He stayed with Shinra all these years because he sincerely believed that Mako was a step in improving people's lives, he also found pleasure in his contribution to the Midgar infrastructure.
But when President Shinra released the Plate – the structure designed to accommodate the demographics of Midgar – Reeve knew that his design was no longer for the good of people.
What did Reeve do? He hid in balmy Costa del Sol and waited for his master obediently to recall him back to the headquarters. Maybe that's why the slum citizens call Shinra executives 'Shinra dogs'. Sad but true, that is exactly what everyone is doing, performing and running errands to satisfy the greed of Shinra.
With Cloud, it was different. Reeve had expected a bunch of arrogant brats who only talked the talk and stop there, it turned out that it was far from that. They were a bunch of youngsters, no doubt. But Reeve sensed a sense of urgency in everyone, a true conviction that they could make a difference. That was something uncommon in the Shinra HQ. As they travelled, Reeve grew to really like the party. It was understandable that Cloud and the rest were angry with Cait Sith for giving the Keystone to Tseng; Reeve didn't blame them. Most of them tolerated his presence after that, but no one said anything unkind to him.
Then, there was a trigger that happened recently, that Reeve finally made the decision. Reeve thought of the new employee, Matilda Ederfeld, and how confident she was of her idealistic beliefs. She too, shared the same conviction that one should work for the things and people that they love, not for money and power.
Perhaps I need life lessons from the youngsters.
In his heart, he knew that he will not be able to stand for another thing against his wishes. Now, as a token of his apology to Cloud and the others, Reeve and Cait Sith both agreed that they will sacrifice Cait Sith so that Cloud can continue his quest with the Black Materia. It was the least Reeve could do, to prove to himself that he could play a part in helping the Planet from destruction.
"If it is true that Sephiroth is going to summon the Black Materia to destroy the Planet, then I should at least ensure that the Black Materia doesn't fall into Sephiroth's hands." Reeve had told Cait Sith while eavesdropping on Cloud, Aerith and Cid in the Temple of the Ancients. They attached a listening bug on Cid's belt (without his knowledge) and could hear the entire conversation between them and Sephiroth. "Cait Sith, I'm afraid…"
"No worries, Reeve!" Cait Sith had said. "I will sacrifice my body for this nice bunch of people anytime!"
Reeve found it hard to let Cait Sith go. Although Cait Sith was constantly upgraded and revamped, the soul of Cait Sith had always remained the same. The newest upgrade (Version 6.1.2) was his most satisfied one. The stuffed Moogle had really helped the robotic cat a lot in battles. The previous upgrade, Version 6.1.1, constantly spoke in rhymes which frustrated many to no end.
The new Cait Sith, now on its way to the Temple, was completely new in its soul. Reeve uploaded memories of the old Cait Sith in its system so that the new Cait Sith was not lost in the information, but those were not its authentic memories. It won't be the same, but Reeve knew that it was for a greater purpose.
While I look like I'm going undercover for Shinra, I'm really Cloud's ally now. Reeve thought, smiling. Also, I'll need to inform Winston to return the little girl… what's her name? Marlene. I suppose keeping her around isn't going to be of any use.
Reeve made a mental note to return Marlene to Elmrya Gainsborough. That was where they first took her away. He already felt bad listening to Heidegger's advice to take Marlene away so that they can have some leverage over Cloud. It turned out to be quite useful, especially when Cloud and Aerith spotted Cait Sith passing the Keystone of the Ancients to Tseng and refused to cooperate anymore. Marlene was the only reason why Cloud and the party continued to tolerate Cait Sith. Then again, Reeve was the only reason why Marlene was in comfortable accommodations in Shinra. She could've been locked up somewhere dark, or worse.
"Reeve, you okay?" Cait Sith asked.
"Hm?"
"You kinda spaced out there. I'm almost done with the puzzle." Cait Sith reported.
Reeve smiled sadly. It was almost time to say goodbye. "I suppose."
"It's kinda late to say this but I think that you are a good master. All these years and you're finally doing something that you want to do. I'm more than happy to see that you are finally doing something that feels right."
"If that's the case," Reeve chuckled. "I guess I gotta thank Matilda."
"Who?"
"Matilda Ederfeld." Reeve answered. "She was the employee in my office the other day."
"Her name is Meia Etsky, Reeve."
Reeve paused to stare at Cait Sith. "What?"
"She was a former Turk. You remember? The little girl who was amused with Version 6.1.1's rhymes?" Cait Sith shrugged. "Looked different, for sure. But my identification always looks past disguises."
Reeve stared at Cait Sith, wide-eyed in surprise.
23 December 0007
Jasper was more than happy to see that there was nothing on his schedule today. His personal assistant (his father forced him to get one) had informed him that he will not be needed for any meetings nor trips so he was free to walk around and enjoy himself. It had been more than two months since he had escaped with his fellow Turks from Midgar. KK and Kido had accompanied him to Bone Village and stayed for a month or so, enjoying the place and also being there for him as he settled back into his life. Then, a few days ago, Rod gave them a call to whisk them to Kalm.
Jasper knew, the minute he returned home, that he could not hope for any other life apart from inheriting his father's business. His father had honourably kept his word not to interfere while he was a Turk, Jasper must now keep his side of the bargain. His father was also relieved to see that his son intended to keep his word and immediately set him for a tight schedule of events. For two months Jasper had shadowed his father in his business talks and conferences. He barely had time to entertain KK and Kido, though he knew that the two of them could get around Bone Village fine.
Learning about jewelling and mining was interesting, but Jasper caught himself daydreaming at times. Sometimes he would amuse himself by replaying scenes of his life in Shinra and his adventures with his former colleagues, his friends. He truly felt no regret anymore and was willing to return to taking up whatever he had set aside the last few years. Leaving the comforts of his protected life to seek an adventure outside was something he decided for himself, and still by far the best decision he'd ever made. And it all started from the day he met Patricia and Marshall, but that was a long story.
In the distance, Jasper noticed a group of travelers. Their features looked nowhere from the north, most likely they were from the southern continent. Jasper's heart ached as he thought of his friends from the main continent.
I wonder how everyone is? He thought. I want to see them so badly, but I'm bound to my promise to my father. Jasper's brow was set with determination. I won't break my promise to him… But it doesn't mean that I can't poke my nose into others' business.
"Excuse me," Jasper turned to one of the miners. "Who are they?"
"Ah, Master Jasper!" The miner was excited to see him. "Those group of people just arrived from the southern shores. They are trying to find the lunar harp."
"The lunar harp?" Jasper asked, surprised. "Nobody's has found it for ages. Gee… what are the odds…" His gaze swept across the group of eight, he noticed a few lone figures standing nearby. One of which was a man whose face Jasper would never forget. Grinning, Jasper walked up to him and gave him a light tap on his back. When the older man saw Jasper, recognition flitted across his face.
"Hey you, young chap!" He grinned. "What is a Turk like you doing in a small village?"
Jasper placed a finger on his lips quickly. "Not so loud, Mr. Cid. I'm no longer a Turk. They um… kicked me out." He grinned.
"You joking with me?" Cid Highwind laughed. "Ain't it lucky, then? Not many people can get out of the Turks alive, it's no secret."
Jasper had met Cid on one occasion. While he was a Turk, he was an escort to the Vice-President. He was utterly impressed with Cid Highwind's aeroskills. He was also the one who witnessed the failure of Shinra No. 26, the first and last spaceship to be launched.
"How is Shera?"
At the mention of her name, Cid scowled. "She is still trying to make amends, even after all these years. I don't want her to make amends. I just want her to leave me alone."
"But…" Jasper frowned. "It has been a really long time."
"Mind your own business, chap." Cid responded roughly and that was the end of that. "So? You haven't answered my question. What are you doing here?"
"Here?" Jasper gestured the village. "I live here." He looked at the group that Cid was with. "So, lunar harp, huh? Do you need help digging?"
Cid grinned. "Never thought you'd ask." Cid flicked the last of his cigarette and snubbed the burning end with his shoe. "Well, whatcha waiting for? You wanted to help, isn't it?" He gestured the muddy floor. "The harp ain't gonna pop up from the ground, is it?"
"Woots!" Meia grinned, one hand pumping a fist in the air. "Untrackable PHSes for the win!"
"Goodness, Meia," teased Legend. "'For the win'? What are you, 12?"
"Oh, sorry I ain't mature enough, mister ooh-look-I'm-so-sophisticated!" Meia teased back.
"Cut it out," snapped Alana. "We are here to update each other, not hear you two bicker."
"Agreed," rejoined Leia. "It's not easy to get all of us into a conference call. Let us not waste anymore time."
From the phone, Meia could hear Mason laugh. "Said in the most Leia-manner possible! Alright, let us get down to business. Who's here and who's not here?"
"Meia, KK, Cassie and Alana are all here in Rod's hideout," said Alana seriously.
"Haato and Leia. Icicle Inn." Leia continued.
"Kido, Mason, Rod, at your service!" Rod said.
"Hey, what?" Cassie exclaimed. "That's where you've been, Rod?"
"Hey babe! I can explain!" Rod answered in a flustered tone. "Later!"
"Legend speaking. I'm still in Wutai." Legend chuckled.
"Cissnei." Cissnei answered. "I think Jasper is not here."
"And Veld is not able to have a conference call with us too," sighed Cassie. "That Jasper! Taking the PHS and not using it is a waste of money!"
"Well," rejoined Katherine. "He did tell us that he don't intend to ever use it even after we forced the phone into his hands." She sighed. "Alrighty folks, shall we begin by updating things on Zir- sorry, I mean Jade WEAPON?" KK asked, ignoring moments of sniggering from Legend. "Oh shut up, Legend. As if you've never messed up your words before!"
"I'm in Gongaga," cut in Cissnei before the others could digress again. "I doubt I'll be going anywhere else. As many would remember, Jade WEAPON first came to Cosmo Canyon. I then provided everyone its basic characteristics and habits that I observed. Then… well… I admit," said Cissnei embarrassedly. "I haven't been paying much attention to what happened after that."
"Ah, thereafter, it's Kido and I in Wutai." Legend claimed.
Meia giggled. "Did you just rhyme?"
"Meia!" said Alana with an impatient tone.
"Sorry, sorry. I know, important things now."
"Yeah, I remember that now," said Haato. "You were going to be an additional help to those Turks living alone."
"Good thing I left for Wutai early." Kido said. "If not it would be Legend handling it all by himself."
"You mean, good thing you left for Wutai," said KK. "I can't believe you did that without telling us! I wish that you'd brought me along to Wutai. It's extremely boring in Midgar!"
"You'll serve a much better purpose in Midgar, Katherine."
"So…" continued Legend. "Where did Jade WEAPON go after that?"
"Costa del Sol," answered Kido. "I have been spot on with guessing the next Turk to attack."
"Thank goodness for Kido," said Mason sheepishly. "If not I would be caught unaware."
"I noticed that each time round, the WEAPON does not diminish in power, but its stamina drops drastically. It took me less time to fight the WEAPON with Mason than with Legend."
"It took me the longest," complained Cissnei. "One whole hour!"
Over the PHS (set on speakers), Meia saw that Cassie rubbed her chin thoughtfully. "Following that trend, I suppose the Jade WEAPON is weakening… somewhat?"
"Seems like it," replied Kido.
"Anymore reports on Jade WEAPON?" asked Leia. When none replied, Leia continued to speculate that assuming the Jade WEAPON does not return to attack the same people, the only places that it would go next was Icicle Inn and Midgar."
Rod's voice came out of the phone quietly. "Um... And Junon."
"Huh?"
"Mason, Kido and I are in Junon."
"Junon!?" chorused everyone.
"What the hell are you there for?" demanded KK.
Meia had never thought that Rod could sound more apologetic. "Erm, it's kinda top secret."
"What- The- Hell?"
Mason spoke up with Rod. "I'm sorry, KK. We were tasked by someone to help him. We can't reveal anything more."
"Well, look at us," said Cassie sarcastically. "All secretive among ourselves now?"
"Cassie…" pleaded Rod. "Please…"
"Is it so important that you cannot let us know?" Haato asked. "Not wanting to sound all family and mushy, but we ARE in this together."
"Our lives are at stake." Leia added. "We won't have you three jeopardizing all of us."
"Look, I can't force you to trust us," said Rod with a hint of desperation. "But please… We are not doing anything dumb."
"No extra help needed?" Asked Cissnei.
"Not currently."
For a moment, nobody spoke. Finally, Meia took a deep breath. "I trust you." Meia said. "You know that I'll always trust my friends. You've never done anything that harmed us."
She heard an audible sigh of relief from Mason. "Thank you, Meia."
"Of course, just don't end up calling us saying that you've got half the Shinra army at your heels and you want us to save your sorry butts!"
Mason gave an embarrassed laugh. "That… isn't too far an impossibility."
"Hmm…" Meia pondered. "If anything were to happen to us because of you… we'll go after you, won't we guys?" Meia giggled.
Some Turks laughed weakly. Then Haato spoke. "Fine, since Meia decided to trust you blindly-"
"Hey!"
"… We shall do the same too."
"Then I hope, for our sakes, that Meia's right in trusting you." Alana groaned and shot a warning glare at her mentee.
Did everyone enjoy their Christmas? Mine was normal, just had a small dinner with my family, and watched 'Wreck-It Ralph' on Christmas Eve. Now we're on our way to the new year and I'm real excited!
I have quite a bit to share and thus I'll give my review replies and other notes in my blog. To those who are still clueless as to where my blog is, you can find it under my author's profile. And bookmark, for Pete's sakes!
I hope you've enjoyed the weekly updates in the last 5-6 weeks! This is the last chapter before 2013, the original schedule will resume in the new year! Enjoy your last day of 2012 and may our new year be better than the last!