The Awakening/Archive4

&lt;&lt; I - II - III - IV - V - VI - VII - VIII - IX - X &gt;&gt;

 Thank you, Violet, for that wonderful monologue... Reeve thought, half dazed and lying on the catwalk. Her ranting lasted long enough to negate the shock mechanism's delay, effectively shocking her. He didn't like feeding her voltage after all that battering, but it was necessary. After Violet left, Reeve stayed on his back a few moments. The pain had already been receding, but his arm was pretty sore. “It wasn't as bad as Reactor One, at least.” he said quietly before lifting himself up and heading downstairs. In the hallway, he saw Violet still out there. She was still arcing electricity and looked injured, as well as angry. Reeve held onto his shoulder. “Could you....possibly be a little more careful next time?”

Hues snapped to Reeve as he spoke, a dark brow slowly quirking as her hands continued to twitch still discharging electricity. Blades were slowly flipped back into their resting position against the back of her arms as she just eyed him for a moment. “B...b...b...be more careful next time?!?!?” She stuttered just a bit taking a few steps towards him. “Sephiroth was gonna cut off my head, tuck it underneath his arm and drag it to the crater.” A light pause was given as he head tilted slightly. “And you’re telling I should have been careful?” She just sighed, looking at her reflection in the shiny whitewashed wall – a look of disgust crossed pale features as she saw blood dripping from the corner of her mouth and oozing from the wound over her right eye. She honestly looked like a cross between a zombie and the bride of Frankenstein covered in dust and bits of plaster. '''“Then to top it all off, you shock me out of Holy Rage; do you know just how painful that is? Thanks a lot, Reeve.”''' She hissed, now glaring at him.

 Reeve shook his head, a look somewhere between frustration and concern on his face. “I'm sorry, Violet, but...” His tone became serious. “If I hadn't, you'd have killed us all.” It was true, he thought. He had heard Sephiroth backing down in response to Angeal, but Violet, stubborn as always and sounding like was in the middle of a transformation, couldn't stop. He wasn't blaming her. However...she needed to be more careful. Anyways, he wasn't all that eager to, but he wanted to see if Angeal and Sephiroth were okay. He started heading towards the other door.

A low growl passed lips as she reached out and grabbed his sore arm, giving him a light shock as she slowly drug him down the hall towards the elevator. '''“So yeah, what am I gonna do now? Sephiroth doesn’t even remember me and he won’t get off this whole “Mother” trip he’s on.”''' She said low, glancing over her shoulder to make sure they weren’t being followed. “Now if it were just me and me alone, I would have probably just let his clones die out and take the fragments of his consciousness return to the planet; it would have hurt like hell and I would have been devastated, but it would have been so much better than this.” A pause was given as she stopped walking and let him go. “But I made a promise that I intend on keeping.” At this point she didn’t know whether to laugh like a madwoman or cry. “I’m not going to submit my babies to the life I had – I never knew my real Mother and Father and look what it did to me Reeve.” A light sigh passed lips as fresh blood began to run down both sides of her chin. “I haven’t seen Kane and Abel in almost two months now; I miss them so much, but I’m not going to bring them back to Midgar until Sephiroth is in his right mind if you catch my drift.”

 As she pulled on his arm, it started to hurt again, though nowhere nearly as bad as before. He hissed a bit, as it was a bit unexpected. He listened as she continued to talk about Sephiroth. 'Mother'. Jenova. Didn't Hojo instill that in him? After all, He never got a chance to see his real mother, did he? Reeve sighed inwardly, as always when seeing the effects of the damage Hojo caused. “Yes, I know what you mean, but...” He trailed off as she continued. He hadn't really seen them, either. Cait Sith was there to watch the kids, but to report only in emergencies. No contact gave him a bit of relief. However, he had been checking on Cait. “They—They're fine.” His sore arm was finally getting to him. He quickly yanked it back, breaking free. “What are you going to do about this?” He asked, crossing his arms. He then started reflecting on his earlier thoughts. Sephiroth never saw his real mother, who was...He shook his head. He knew, it just wasn't coming to him.

“I know they’re fine, I just miss them...” She said low, trailing off as she stepped over to the elevator, hitting a random button. She didn’t even know where she was going at this point so it would be up to Reeve once the elevator got here. “I don’t know, I just don’t know but there’s got to be some way to convince him...” And then it dawned on her as she spit a mouth full of blood across the whitewashed wall. “Lucrecia was Sephiroth’s biological mother, Reeve.” A smile crept across bloodstained lips as a light ding was heard before the elevator doors slid open. She quickly stepped in, dragging Reeve with her as the doors slid shut. “Maybe if we take him to the crystal cave where she sealed herself, she will talk to him and make him snap out of this whole Jenova reunion thing.” She thought for a moment, leaning against the elevator wall – Violet didn’t remember where the cave was though but she knew someone who would. “Vincent...” Was said low as she looked to Reeve. “You got to find Vincent and make him come here because we don’t have much time and I like my head where it is – attached to the rest of my body.” A pause was given as blues slid shut. “Sephiroth no longer carries Jenova; you were there when I separated them so you know – but if he gets a hold of me again and I can’t fight him off, we’re all screwed because said reunion will take place and it’ll be the damn Jenova War all over again.”

 '''“Lucrecia? That's right...”''' It came back to him – the cave, the conversation, all of it. '''“Yes, that just might work, but the world around us has changed. The scouts we've sent out have just barely found places like Nibelheim and Rocket Town. An obscure location like that would take months to find.”''' He shook his head, a little dismayed. He then looked at Violet. She was on to something. Vincent could probably find the cave without having to search. He was just...kind of connected to Lucrecia. He couldn't really figure it out. Anyways, Reeve took out his phone and dialed Vincent's number. “We're sorry,” He heard an automated voice start, '''“Your call could not be completed. Please hang up and--”''' Reeve shut the phone and re-pocketed it, laughing a bit. '''“It seems he's turned it off. I can check to see if he's been to 7th Heaven, but it's entirely possible he hasn't. In any case, we need to get you to the Infirmary, first.” He looked her over again and shook his head, “You're tough, but not indestructible.”'''

“Says who?” She snapped, now feeling her stomach tighten just a bit. “Ok, ok, the Infirmary it is but don’t tell Faremis anything.” A gloved hand brushed the keypad as the elevator slowly began to descend a few floors at a time. “Knowing Vincent, he’s hiding from us because we always seem to call him when we need something.” She facepalmed for a moment as a sharp pain moved through her head. “But hey, it’s always good to be needed I guess.” In a cryptic way, she was right about that one. “So yeah, check 7th Heaven and other random places you think he might be.” Random being the key word there. “And when you find him, make him come back – I don’t wanna hear none of this 'no I’m not going' crap.” A light sigh was given as the elevator stopped and the doors slid open. She stepped out into the hallway looking around. “Tell him it’s a life or death situation; as in I’m alive but for how much longer and he needs to get here pronto.” She staggered a bit now; crashing into the wall and then bouncing across the hallway to the other leaving blood smeared everywhere. “Or just make something up; I don’t care how you get him here just do it.”

 He quickly ran ahead, trying to help Violet stay on her feet and off the wall. ''Ah, Violet. Always trying to do it all yourself'', he thought, guiding her to the infirmary. It wasn't far now, but she was getting there, even if she didn't like being there. “You know..Vincent won't like it if he sees you like this.” He mentioned, laughing weakly, “Take it easy for a while.” He stopped at a door, moving to open it with his free arm.

<font face="Century Gothic"><font color="Blue">Hues rolled back into her head for a moment as she just looked up to Reeve with a smirk as her hand was drug along the wall. “Ya know Vincent isn’t going to like any of this period...” Words were slurred as she staggered along kinda using Reeve as a crutch. As soon as the shock fully wore off, she began to grow weaker every minute which wasn’t an uncommon side effect, it had happened before. “His feelings towards Sephiroth aren’t that great – yeeeah, sure he was there when I separated the Sephie from Jenova, but as the rumor goes; well you know everyone thinks he’s dead.” A chuckle laced with mild insanity passed bloody lips as she just shook her head. “And Reeve, I know you meant well by shocking the living hell outta me.” Was said in a weak tone as hues rolled back into her head once more. “But you really shoullll...” But she was out cold before she could finish the sentence and all her dead weight was now on Reeve.

<font face="Palatino Linotype"> Reeve shook his head, noticing how weak Violet was getting. '''“It's not going to be easy, but I'll get him. You can bet on that.”''' He attempted to get her through the door, only to have her fall on him, passed out. He staggered a bit before putting more strength behind himself, though it wasn't quite enough. A ShinRa executive trying to carry a Turk just didn't work well. He kept trying though, but now the heard footsteps nearby. “Is someone there?” He asked aloud, relaxing a bit. <font color="Yellow">“Reeve?” A female voice asked, then the footsteps speed us, bringing Elena into view. She was smiling, but it quickly faded as he noticed an injured Violet resting on him. She sped down the hall to where the two were. <font color="Yellow">'''“Oh my gosh, Violet! What happened?”''' She asked, a bit frantic. Reeve didn't know if he could tell her. If Reno, Rude, or even Tseng found out, all hell would break loose. '''“It's...a long story. I need some help getting her to the Infirmary, though.”''' Elena nodded quickly, moving to Violet's feet and lifted her legs while Reeve got her under the shoulders, carrying her in the door. The nurse there looked up, then quickly stood up. <font color="White">“Go ahead and put her on the bed over there,” She said, pointing to a long row of white-dressed medical beds. She sounded as if this wasn't the first time she's seen a Turk carried in. Reeve and Elena did just that, making sure she wasn't going to roll off. <font color="White">'''“It looks like she came from the training center. Just who was she fighting?”''' It seemed like everyone wanted the single bit of information he couldn't give. The nurse then shook her head, reading his tired expression quite clearly. <font color="White">'''“Sorry, it's not important. I'll take care of her.”''' She then took a good look at Reeve. <font color="White">“Are you hurt, too?” Reeve quickly shook his head. He didn't want to be stuck here, either, but he wasn't passed out on the bed. <font color="White">'''“At least go rest, a bit. You, too.”''' She said, looking to Elena. Reeve nodded before turning to leave.

<font face="Palatino Linotype"> Out in the hallway, Reeve started to head for his room when he felt a tug on his arm. It was his good arm, but that didn't really matter anymore. He was exhausted, more mentally then physically, but he didn't feel like doing much at the moment. He looked over his shoulder to see Elena tugging on his arm. <font color="Yellow">“I'm not done with you yet!” Reeve turned around, causing Elena to straighten up. <font color="Yellow">'''“What happened to her? You have time to tell me now, sir!”''' He just stood silently for a moment before turning to walk away. “Sorry, Elena.” He tried to walk away, but he felt her pull on his other arm, causing him to flinch. Elena gasped and ran around to face him. <font color="Yellow">'''“You really are hurt, aren't you? You're going back to the infirmary!”''' She said as the turned him around and tried to push him back in the other direction, all while he protested. He then ran ahead a few steps and turned, passing the young Turk. It seemed that she gave up after that, since she didn't bother him anymore.

<font face="Palatino Linotype"> Back to his room, Reeve immediately removed his coat, showing that he was wearing a white t-shirt underneath. Not very official, but it worked. He quickly hung his coat on the back of his door, kicked off his shoes, and made his way to the bed, sitting and then lying down. Crossing his arms, he closed his eyes and focused. Various scenes played out in his mind, all from 7th Heaven, and all from about a foot and a half off the ground. Everything sort of fast forwarded, stopping every few seconds. <font face="Century Gothic"><font color="3366FF">“Kitties love ham and cheese.” - “It's Shalua, isn't it?” - Suddenly, Reeve caught a glimpse of gold and red. Everything stopped at Shelke. <font face=Garamond><font color="FF9933">“Vincent Valentine.” Echoed through his mind as his view changed, moving to see Vincent before fast forwarding to seeing him at the bar. <font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">“So what have you been up to lately that’s keeping you away from all of us?” - <font face="Garamond"> '''“Reeve's been wanting me to come back ever since. I'm not going back.” - <font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">“Well, maybe it’s important and you should go back.”'''  Then, everything went black. So...he was there. Reeve thought before today's events caught up with him again and he drifted into sleep.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">Later that week...

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">Business had been slow that week, but Tifa didn’t mind; the change was kinda nice and she really enjoyed the break. A nod was given as she tapped the eraser end of her pencil on the bar top; checking over the inventory list Zack had made for her the night before. It seemed gyshal liquor was a popular choice in Esthar because they just couldn’t keep enough in stock and it was in high demand. Personally, Tifa didn’t care for the stuff; it smelled bad and had a funny after taste. According to Zack, it was an acquired taste but in her opinion, you had to already be three sheets to the wind to actually enjoy the putrid stuff. “Hey Zacky, could you go out back and check on the little ones for me?” She asked, tucking the pencil and paper away in her apron pocket. She had sent the kid out back to play since it was such a nice day – there was really no need for them to stay cooped up inside, wreaking havoc upon poor Yuffie and Nanaki. “Well, wait a sec...” She said, pulling a tray out from underneath the counter. Four glasses were filled with ice and placed upon it as she headed for the refrigerator. “You can take them a drink while you’re at it.” She pulled out a large pitcher of lemonade and filled the glasses before returning the container to its chilly home.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">A light smile was given to him as she then picked up a plastic box and headed out to a few tables that needed cleaning. “Make yourself useful.” A nod was given to that as she headed over to Yuffie’s materia stand – yup, she was still there and Tifa figured she wasn’t gonna leave anytime soon. “Business is booming aye?” She said with a smirk quickly clearing a nearby table and then moving on to the next as she spotted Cloud slumped at a corner table, reading some kind of motorcycle magazine. “Well hello there mister anti-social, I didn’t think you were awake yet – ya must have snuck past me.” She said with a smile sitting the box on a nearby table before she took a seat across form him. “Am I not ever worthy of a ‘good afternoon’ anymore?” Head tilted slightly as she just watched him flip through the pages.

<font face="Trebuchet MS"><font color="Green">Yuffie looked up from her Magic/Support bin and nodded. '''“I think I'm getting through to some of the regulars about what materia is. I might be able to open up my own shop soon!”''' She then returned to her bin. “Heh heh heh...Wait 'til Shake hears about this.” She said to herself.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">Blues looked up to Tifa for a moment as she sat down. He returned her smile and went back to his magazine, shaking his head lightly. “You were busy with a customer when I came down so I didn’t interrupt.” He replied in his usual stoic, soft spoken tone as he shifted slightly propping a foot up on the window seal. “I guess I’d better warn you – I’m thinking about leaving again; might go help Barrett and Cid in Midgar.” Another few pages were flipped as he spoke glancing up to his beloved. “That’s not going to bother you is it?” Head tilted slightly as the magazine was finally closed and tossed aside.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">She shook her had, propping her elbows on the table. '''“That’s still not an answer as to why you’re hiding in this corner all by yourself. Why don’t you go talk to Zack? I think you two have the same taste in magazines.”''' She said with a giggle, leaning back a bit as brows slightly rose. “Do you really think those two need any help?” She asked looking back to him now. “Midgar is over half complete now and you didn’t bother lending a hand on the first four sectors.” A light pause was given as she just shook her head again. “If that’s what you really want to do Cloud, you know I can’t stop you and at least I know where you’ll be so I won’t worry as much – but I’ll still worry.” Slim frame slowly rose as she collected the box and headed back to the bar. “But I still think it’s just an excuse to get away from the little ones.” She glanced over her shoulder, giving him a wink before she continued on to the bar.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">A sigh was heard as he almost toppled over in the chair but regained his balance. He really didn’t feel like talking to anyone right now – hence the fact he was sitting alone in the corner, Tifa just kinda came along and started talking to him. Light brows knitted together as he just picked up his magazine and stood, following Tifa to the bar. “It’s not an excuse Tifa – even though Kane and Abel do creep me out just a little, the kids aren’t all that bothersome.” He took a seat on his usual stool and glanced to the magazine Zack had left on the bar – it was last month’s issue of Motorbikes Bizarre. “Huh, I must have missed that issue.” He said to himself looking back to Tifa. “I’m serious about it though, I just can’t sit here all day doing nothing and the delivery business around here is really slow.” That was the drawback of living in Esthar; everything was automated which made running a delivery service kinda pointless. “Besides, we could use the extra Gil and I hear construction jobs in Midgar pay well.” That was another thing that irked Cloud – Tifa was working her ass off day after day to make a living and he was doing nothing.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">Another giggle was heard as she stepped into the back room, sitting the box on the sink. '''“Cloud, just because Kane and Abel are Sephiroth’s children doesn’t mean they’re gonna grow up to destroy the world ya know. Yeah, they may have his looks but they’re more like their Mother ya know?”''' A pause was given as she slowly made her way over to where he was sitting. “Children aren’t always like their parents ya know.” She said with a smile, leaning on the counter. '''“And as for the extra Gil you speak of, we don’t need it we’re getting by just fine – I mean what would we do with it? Put it in the bank and let it sit there?”''' She just giggled again, turning to fix up Cloud one of the house specials. “Cloud, you kill me sometimes.” Was said low as she sat the drink in front of him. '''“Stop worrying about finances ok? We’re gonna be fine.”'''

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">“Hey, ya never know... Kids are kinda funny these days.” He said looking to the drink; today’s special was honey mead of all things. “Well, having extra Gil in the bank is always a good thing and I feel like a bum just sitting around doing nothing while you work all the time.” A pause was given as he took a sip of the mead and cringed at its sweetness. “Besides, I was kind of thinking of a place out in the country – you, me, a white picket fence and maybe a couple kids of our own one day.” A light smile crossed his lips for a moment as he just shrugged. “It was just a thought...”

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">Hues widened as she looked to Cloud, almost dropping the mug she was putting away. '''“Gee Cloud, are you feeling ok? I didn’t think you’d be up for something like that.”''' She thought for a moment as her head tilted slightly. “Or the kids part anyhow.” A light giggle was heard as a warm smile crossed pink tinted lips. “As I said, if that’s what you want I’m not going to stop you – but if you do take the job, you better call as often as you can or that house with a white picket fence will just be wishful thinking mister.”

<font face="Comic Sans MS"><font color="3399FF">The back door opened again, with Zack popping in once more. He closed the door behind him and headed to the bar with Tifa and Cloud. '''“Hey, it's my main man Cloud! Where'd you come from, all of a sudden?”''' He hopped on the stool next to the empty one next to Cloud. “So, how are ya?”

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">A light brow rose as he looked to the back door as it opened and kinda shook his head. Looking for a distraction from the current conversation with Tifa, he pulled out his phone, flipped it open and began going over the 150 missed calls. “Tifa, Tifa, Tifa, Tifa, Tifa, Cid, Tifa, Tifa, Barrett, Yuffie, Tifa, Tifa, Tifa, Tifa, Tifa, Reno...” He thought to himself as head tilted slightly. “What does Reno want?” He wondered, just shrugging it off. “Probably nothing important.” He had to chuckle at his thoughts as he went on down the list looking at just how many times Tifa had called him – and how many times he didn’t answer. He watched her for a moment, just shaking his head lightly. “It’s not that I don’t want to answer...” Both brows rose to his thoughts. “But if I did, it would just make you worry more.”

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">He turned his attention to Zack, shaking his head for a moment as the phone was closed and put away. “I’ve been here all day Zack.” A light pause was given as he thought for a moment. “Just been taking tips from Nanaki.” He looked to the beast that was quietly curled up in the corner sleeping. “Kinda staying outta the way, ya know?” A pause was given as he thought for a moment. “How am I?” He just didn’t know the answer to that one. “I guess you could say I’m ok.” Was said with a nod as he slid his issue of Motorbikes Bizarre in Zack’s direction. “It’s this month’s issue.” He said in his usual stoic tone. '''“Wanna trade? I missed last month’s.”'''

<font face="Comic Sans MS"><font color="3399FF">'''“Really? You're too quiet, man.”''' He said, thinking. Ok...that sounds like Cloud... He thought. He then looked at the Magazine for a second. '''“This month's issue? Sure!”''' He said as he reached back and grabbed last month's from its resting place on the bar and offered it to Cloud. Then he took hold of Cloud's issue, opening it up. '''“Sweet! Thanks, man!”'''

<font face="Garamond"> Vincent figured it was a bit too early for the bar to be crowded as he made his way in. He was right – not even the kids were inside, it seemed. He joined everyone but the materia ninja and the corner-dwelling Nanaki at the bar. <font face="Comic Sans MS"><font color="3399FF">'''“Hey! Vincent! What's shakin', bro?”''' Zack greeted him as he usually did. “...Nothing.” Vincent replied, shaking his head.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">A light chuckle passed pink lips as she listened in on Zack and Cloud. She thought it was kinda nice for him to have a friend from the old days – sure, there was Barrett, Cid and Vincent but the only come around once in a blue moon and she always thought Cloud kinda got kinda discouraged being surrounded by all these girls and kids all the time. “Boys will be boys I suppose...” She thought to herself, hearing the bell over the door ring as Zack greeted Vincent. “Oh, wow...” She finally said, turning around. “Look who it is, back so soon?” She asked tucking the dish towel into her apron. “Times are boring when you’re not out saving the world hum?” A light giggle was heard as she reached over to snatch a wine glass from the shelf, sitting it down in front of Vincent before filling it half full with the usual, red wine. The bottle was returned to the shelf as she then looked to the full mug of warm honey mead that sat in front of Cloud. “Are you done with that already?” Head tilted slightly as a light sigh passed lips.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">He took the magazine with a light nod and sat it down on the bar top. “No problem.” Was said as he glanced over his shoulder hearing the bell ring. A light brow quirked as he spotted a familiar face slowly trudging towards the bar. “Hey Vincent.” He said low as a look of amusement crossed pale features. “Long time no see.” Head tilted slightly as he turned back to the magazine, flipping through a few pages before looking to Tifa and then back to what he was reading. “It’s too sweet; get me a soda water or something.”

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">A dark brow rose as she picked up the mug and carted it over to the sink, dumping its contents down the drain. “Right away your majesty.” She said in an amused tone, grabbing a clean mug from the shelf. '''“What about you Zacky? You want anything?”''' Was asked as she filled the mug with soda water and sat it in front of Cloud, watching as he instantly grabbed the mug and downed half of it. “Ick!” She said, cringing lightly.

<font face="Comic Sans MS"><font color="3399FF">Zack looked up from the magazine he was reading for a second. “Not right now, thanks.” He said calmly before going back to the book, clearly engrossed.

<font face="Garamond"> “I could say the same for you, Cloud...” He said, showing a bit of a smile himself. He fell silent a bit, thinking. Then, he looked up at Tifa. '''“Hey, Tifa...has Starla been here since I was last here? I kind of wanted to ask her something.”''' He then noticed the door open for a moment, then close. It must have been Reeve's cat, since he was easily short enough for the bar to block Vincent's view of him.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">A finger came to rest upon her chin as her other arm found it’s resting place across her belly as she just shook her head. “Starla-” A dark brow rose as she looked to Zack and then back to Vincent. “Last time she was here, Zacky was hoggin’ her all to himself but yeah, I haven’t seen her since then.” A light pause was given as she heard the door open and then close. Reddish hues peered over the bar to make sure it wasn’t one of the kids. “Nope, just Cait Sith.” She thought now leaning over the bar next to Cloud. “Why, did you find out something about her?”

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">“I come and go, nothing special.” He said low, looking to Vincent and then back to his magazine as he took another drink of soda water. He then glanced to Tifa as she spoke of that strange girl. “I’m staying out of this.” He thought, flipping a few more pages. Sure, he was gonna stay out of it but who’s to say he can’t eavesdrop on the conversation.

<font face="Comic Sans MS"><font color="3399FF">Hearing his name, Zack lowered the magazine a bit. '''“Hum? What about me?”''' He looked over to Vincent. <font face="Garamond"> '''“Not really. I just thought of something she was telling me about last time.”''' Vincent told Tifa before turning to Zack. <font face="Garamond"> '''“Yeah. You were talking to Starla after I left?”''' Zack tilted his head, his eyes kind of glazing over. '''“Yeah, but it was mainly about Soldier. I figure you're not interested in that kinda thing.”''' Vincent nodded in agreement. <font face="Garamond"> “Did she say if she was coming back?” Zack put his hand to his chin in thought. “She mentioned that she might come back if she could, but, as Tifa said, she hasn't been back.”

<font face="Palatino Linotype"> “Are ya sure ya didn't run her off, lad?” Cait Sith asked, jumping on the stool between Cloud and Zack, taking note of Vincent on the way. Reeve!, He thought, Reeve, Vincent's here! He then laughed before Zack could say anything. '''“Sorry, lad, I'm jus' joking. So...Do ya think she's still mad about ShinRa? She sounded curious, yesterday.”''' At that moment, Cait heard the bell above the door. Watching anxiously, he slumped when he saw it wasn't Reeve. A bit of consolation to him, though was that it was Starla. ''I'm on my way there. Stay out of trouble.'' Reeve finally answered. Cait just nodded and sat down. '''“Speak o' the devil. Hey there, Starla!”''' He said, waving as she approached. He then looked at Zack, the both of them nodding before Cait jumped off the stool and headed for the one next to Vincent.

<font face="Trebuchet MS"><font color="CC99FF">'''“Hey, everyone! I'm sorry I couldn't come sooner.”''' She said, waving at the little cat. Even though he sounded like a ShinRa employee, he was kind of cute. As he moved stools, she took that as an invitation to sit next to Zack. The poor guy was trying so hard. She decided to sit there, anyways. “So, how's everything been going?” She then looked around, her gaze turning to the guy on the other side of her. “Oh, and who's this?” She asked, puzzled. He looked quite a bit like Zack, but he was blond. She then nodded, “It’s nice to meet you." A moment of silence passed before Starla heard a familiar voice speak. <font face="Garamond"> “Starla?” She heard Vincent ask, and leaned over the bar a bit. “Yes?”

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">Blues looked to the strange girl for a moment as a light brow slowly rose. “Cloud, always a pleasure...” He trailed off, taking note of the peculiar glow her eyes held – and then he quickly hopped off the stool. “Yeah, I’m definitely staying out of this…” He said low, making his way to the end of the bar and taking a seat. All this ShinRa talk was making him feel a bit edgy – he wanted to leave the bar all together, but figured he’d stay just in case anything did happen.

<font color="CCCC99"><font face="Times New Roman">'''“Ah! Cloud!”''' She stood up straight as he quickly moved, almost crashing into her. “Don’t be-” She started but then shook her head. “Don’t be like that...” Her tone lowered as she just looked down for a moment, sighing lightly “Anyway…” She was about to offer Starla a drink when she saw the girl busy talking to Vincent. “Well, never mind.” Was thought as she cleared the bar top of stray glasses and wiped it down.

<font face="Garamond"> '''“Could I ask you a question? You know, in private?”''' He asked. He'd rather not have the others hear about this, especially Cloud. <font face="Trebuchet MS"><font color="CC99FF">“Oh, sure!” She responded before abandoning her bar stool. Vincent did the same, and lead her over to his little part of the wall. Yuffie seemed to be away for the time being, so he figured the spot was okay. <font face="Trebuchet MS"><font color="CC99FF">“What is it?” She asked quietly. Before answering, Vincent peered over her shoulder to make sure no one was looking. The were, as expected, but upon seeing Vincent, they turned back to their business. [b]“In...In the files you told me about before...Did you see any mention of Chaos or a Doctor Lucrecia Crescent?”[/b] Starla looked down, tapping her chin. <font face="Trebuchet MS"><font color="CC99FF">“I don't remember a 'Chaos', but there were a few brief mentions of Dr. Crescent...though all the real info was blacked out.” Vincent went wide-eyed and shook his head a bit. Lucrecia...was involved in this, too? Vincent looked over to see Cait Sith back on the stool between Zack and Cloud, facing the bar. Vincent quickly pushed past Starla, making his way to the cat. “Cait Sith...” His voice was teeming with both anger and desperation, but barely above a whisper. The cat turned around, looking up at him with as much of a concerned look as a cat toy could give. <font face="Palatino Linotype"> '''“What is it, lad? You don't look so well...”'''

<font face="Palatino Linotype"> <font face="Garamond"> '''“Was anything else on Lucrecia found in the Deepground Archives? Or Junon?”''' His red-cloaked friend asked, seething for some reason the cat couldn't figure out. He opened his mouth to speak, but closed it. '''Ya need to hurry, Reeve. The poor lad doesn't look so good.''' He thought, knowing this would get ugly soon. “The archives were pretty fragmented when they were excavated, but...” He didn't want to do this, “I can't...give ya the details like this...I'm so sorry, lad.” Oh, this wasn't going to end well.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">Tifa had had just about enough of this ‘confidential’ and ‘I can’t tell ya’ bullshit Cait Sith was giving them when anything ShinRa was brought up. “That is it...!” She hissed, slamming the dish towel down on the bar top. “You can never tell anyone anything anymore when it comes to ShinRa... But that didn’t stop you from spying on us three years ago.” She started, as teeth ground together. “So why are you here anyway?” Gloved hands reached over the bar as she grabbed the cat by his collar and brought him face to face with her. “Reeve dammit, I know you’re in there somewhere so why won’t you tell us anything?” She just shook the toy for a moment. “I have two children out there that haven’t seen or heard from their Mommy in almost two months and it’s all because of some classified bullshit – you won’t even tell us if she’s doing, if she’s ok or alive or dead or what.” A pause was given as she banged the cat on the bar a couple of times. “You of all people – I figured you would have had some kind of heart and would let us know something but NOOOOO!” Tifa didn’t know whether she wanted to cry or laugh or just flat out rip the cat’s head off. “And you know just as much as everyone else that it isn’t fair to them at all; children shouldn’t have to be the ones to suffer ya know?” And with this she just began banging the toy’s head on the bar top over and over, growling as she did.

<font face="Garamond"> At the toy cat's words Vincent began shaking, but Tifa stole his target and intentions right out from under him, leaving him to strike the empty bar stool, causing Zack to run for it. He knew Reeve and that his intentions were well-meant, but this was about Lucrecia. He hit the stool again, decimating it before heading for the door. About halfway there, though, the door burst open to show Reeve Tuesti himself, almost on the brink of tears, but still looking quite angry. Vincent would have been ready to pull Cerberus on the man if he didn't know him so well. He knew not to underestimate Reeve.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">Cloud just kinda chuckled at everything that was going on – Tifa was beating the hell out of a toy cat, Zack was running for cover and Vincent was just destroying things. “Nothing changes…” He thought to himself, not looking away from the magazine.

<font face="Palatino Linotype"> “That's quite enough!” He demanded in a tone he hadn't used in a long while. He saw his poor Cait Sith from his on perspective now, and he didn't like it at all. His skin was stinging all over from Tifa's assault on the cat. Focusing, he allowed Cait to chance an escape, which allowed the cat to run for it. “Reeve!” He cried, bolting behind the man. '''“You're saying I don't tell you about Violet when I should? She's the one who's telling me to keep everything under wraps!” He stepped forward a bit, “It was different three years ago. We were all against ShinRa. I leaked information to help you guys take down the old ShinRa management. Back then, we took the information and went against them, going in guns blazing and fists raised!”''' He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, swallowing. [b]“If we did that now...”[/b] He looked straight Tifa. '''“None of us would get out alive. Not even the kids!”''' He then looked away from everyone. Thinking maybe he went a little too far, but it was the truth. '''“I'm not doing this to be a jerk, or a corporate puppet. I just...want to keep everyone safe. Still, if it will make you feel better...”''' He looked ahead, holding his arms out to the side a bit, as if to say 'go ahead'. Looking up at his friend and lifegiver, Cait Sith clung to his leg tightly. “Reeve, no!”

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">Hues narrowed as she saw Reeve now standing in the doorway. “You...” She said low feeling the cat squirm between her hands – and she just let go. Brows knitted as she listened to what he had to say before reaching up to tighten her gloves. “That doesn’t sound like her at all.” A shake of the head was given as she hopped over the bar, heading towards Reeve. “If it was THAT important, she would tell us something; after all, we are heroes of the Jenova War...” Fists were balled up as she approached him, head tilting slightly. “Something isn’t right – I can feel it.” And with that, she raised her fist getting ready to sock Reeve one across the jaw, but then she felt a hand quickly wrap around her fist and pull her back.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">Cloud knew trouble was brewing when he heard Reeve’s voice and saw Tifa hop across the bar. A sigh passed lips as he quickly tucked between his waist and belt before hopping off the stool. He quickly darted across the room and grabbed Tifa’s fist not a moment too soon. “Hey, beating up on ShinRa executives never solved anything however-” He paused for a moment as strong arms wrapped around Tifa’s tiny frame. “Blowing them up seemed to work well.” He was just messing with Reeve, even though now didn’t seem to be the time for his morbid humor. “I think he’s telling the truth Tifa and there’s always a good reason behind the things Violet does even though half the time they really don’t make any sense.” A shrug was given as he pulled Tifa towards the door. “But I think it’s best if we leave now.” He said in a rather strewn tone. “Zack, keep an eye on things...” He called and hoped the message was heard. “And when Yuffie comes back, make her help you.”

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">A squeak was heard as Cloud began to drag her out the door – but what could she do? She was strong but he was stronger and would always win. '''“But Cloud! I’m not finished!”''' She yelled, squirming just a bit, knowing she was fighting a loosing battle.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="00CC99">“Yes you are, come on.” He growled, tightening his grip on her. “Zack and Yuffie can take care of things and Vincent is here too...” A pause was given as he forcefully shoved her through the doorframe, pulling the wooden door shut behind him. '''“C’mon, I’ll take you to lunch. You need a break; you’ve been working way too hard lately.”''' He said, hopping on to his bike.

<font face="Times New Roman"><font color="CCCC99">Before Cloud got her out the door, Tifa said one last thing as she eyed Vincent. “Please go back to Midgar and find out what’s going on... You could at least do that much!!!” Was yelled as the door slammed shut in her face. And angry puff was given as she looked to Cloud, shaking her head. “I’m not hungry...” Was mumbled low as she hopped on the back of the bike. Well, maybe she was... It depended on where they were going and how much Cloud was gonna spend on her.

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