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Walking Out on Destiny	By : HarliqueenNight Category: Final Fantasy VII > Yaoi - Male/Male Views: 2575 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: Final Fantasy VII and all things associated are owned by Square Enix and Testuya Nomura respectively. I own nothing save for the characters and places created for the sake of this fan fiction and recieve no profit in the creation of this fanfiction.

Chapter List
- 17
- 18
- 19
A/N: One thing that I never got the vibe of was Cloud being shy. Don't get me wrong. I would assume he was kinda introverted in something's but to be so shy that it was almost girlish after growing up in a mountain town and then being a part of the ShinRa Infantry…shy just wasn't what I thought. Maybe a bit anti-social from being so far from home but to be so blatantly shy that after every communiqué there was a blush or an averting of eyes. Nah, that's just unrealistic after playing all of the games and watching the movie. I mean, come on, he cracks jokes. Subtle ones but their there. I mean he was even a bit cocky when he met Zack, calling his home backwater. My Cloud isn't going to be very shy because I think Cloud as a character wasn't really shy or broody. He just had a lot of traumatizing crap happen to him. Seriously, kid went through more shit by the time he was twenty-something than most people in their entire lives but hey, even he had a childhood. XD And now that that rant is over. PUPPY MEETS FUCKING CHOCOBO!

l

Walking Out on Destiny Season Two

Episode Three: Midgar, Midgar, That Title and Town! (part one)

"So you passed?"

"Yep, meaning I'm out. Not for good but for a long time."

"Mm…and that means when you come back…"

"I'll be a lot stronger than you. Maybe even mastered more materia…"

"Then…that means I need keep up."

"I rather you didn't!"

"Come on, why would I give you a lead over me you chocobo butt!"

"I think the only thing that has a lead over you is your tits."

SMACK!

"Ow!"

"Not funny! Why did you really call me up here?"

"Um…" Fidget…

"What is it?"

"You're the strongest and most stubborn girl in the village…so…I have a favor to ask you."

"I'll hear it but I ain't promisin' nothing."

"Figures. I want you to look after my mom."

"Ms. Alina? Pfft I was going to do that anyway!"

"Wait what?"

"You're abandoning her to go chase some silly dream; of course she'll need someone strong to look out for her until her prodigal son returns home with his tail between his legs."

"That was…surprisingly educated sounding."

"Go to hell, jerk. But I got a deal for you. Since when you come back, you're going to be all famous and crap, I have one thing to ask you."

"What?"

"Be my hero…my SOLDIER when I need you…"

"You're a beast on your own. What would you need me for?"

Silence…hesitation… "Just because! Look, I'm still a girl, Cloud. Remember that."

"I wonder sometimes. I don't get it. But okay. You promise to look after my mom, and I promise I'll be your toy SOLDIER. Deal?"

"Deal." Pinky swear…

Genesis cast a quick dispel over Cloud to bid him awake. Cloud had handled his chronic motion sickness very well until they got to the fairy that would take them across the waters into Junon. It was there that Cloud was bent over the railing constantly beside Tseng who had yet to get over his aversion to boats. While Tseng no longer got as sick, Genesis still ended up having to watch over both of them. It seemed to go downhill from there when they hit the rocky terrain of the eastern continent and eventually Tseng had to cast Sleep on him to keep him from suffering. When Midgar came into view Genesis had decided to bring him out of the coma so that he could see the City of Mako on the horizon.

"Cloud, dear? Wake up?"

Blond lashes fluttered open and he sat up as best he could. Tseng slowed down so that the car would not jolt as much and Cloud would be able to enjoy the view. Blue eyes were filled with the bright green glow of the city in the distance as the sun set behind it. They widened as they took in the strange mechanical beauty that was Midgar and a smile spread over his lips. The rose colored back ground made the city look ethereal set above the earth like architect's wet dream. Genesis smiled at his look of wonder and asked if he'd ever seen the big city on TV. Cloud nodded. He had, but never a view like this. It was breathtaking and filled his chest with a feeling he couldn't explain. His heart felt full of hope and drive as he realized that this was where he needed to be. This was the place to make everything wrong in his world right.

"Midgar…" Cloud whispered whimsically.

Tseng glanced at him in the rearview mirror, a light smile playing on his face. He remembered having that reaction when Vincent took him on a tour of the plate for the first time. He was so happy, so fascinated by the world that had been built so high above the ground. He was able to empathize with Cloud.

"The city of Midgar, standing approximately 50 meters above the ground with ShinRa Tower at the center of it all," Genesis said.

"It's beautiful, sir."

"Its home," Tseng said contentedly.

"We'll be getting into the gate around zero-hundred so we'll go straight to my place and I'll put you up in the guest room until I can set you up for the physical."

"I do not think that would be wise considering who you inhabit that penthouse with."

"Oh yeah…AH! I've got it. You'll stay with Zack!"

Tseng's brow arched. "Zack?"

"Who's Zack?"

"A puppy" they both said in unison.

"You want me to live with a dog?"

l

Cloud…was totally confused. He was merely a bystander when they had knocked on a very nice apartment in what was considered the SOLDIER sector of Midgar. He was merely a bystander when the door opened revealing a tall black haired man who looked like he'd just witnessed a nuclear explosion and his hair had been comically blown back because of it. He had thick fluffy bangs in his face and his eyes were an amazing violet blue that glowed in the dim lighting of the city. But, what weird poor Cloud out…was the chicken bone wedged firmly in his mouth that moved up and down when he made affirmative noises.

"Zackary, what the hell is that in your mouth?" Tseng asked plainly.

"Mm?" he pointed at the bone.

"No, the dick hanging out your mouth," Genesis growled.

"Heh! Chicken!" he said with a mouthful. "I was eatin'!"

Tseng shook his head. "Genesis, I have to report in, can you get Cloud settled in alone."

"Yes, yes, woe is the worry of a Turk. Go play house with Veld and I'll handle my own mess."

Tseng rolled his eyes muttering about it being the last time he ever traveled with him again. He glanced at Cloud. "It was a pleasure meeting you. If you make it into SOLDIER 3rd Class, then you and I will be seeing more of each other."

"Cool," Cloud nodded and waved goodbye to the Wutain man. He turned back to see Genesis smacking the grinning man with the chicken bone upside his head.

"You're so rude! Didn't even invite us in! Angeal taught you better."

"Ow, okay, okay!"

Cloud simply followed them in with his suitcase of precious few belongings. He watched Genesis snatch away the chicken bone from the grinning man and throw it in the garbage. Zack looked put out about the loss of it and practically pouted at Angeal.

"Awe come on, do I throw away your food right outta your mouth?"

"Look, I know we call you puppy but aren't you taking it a bit far by chewing on bones."

"That's how you get all the good stuff," Zack complained picking up his plate. He looked at Cloud as if noticing him for the first time. His violet eyes roved over the petite blonde like a curious animal and Cloud felt like he should've been poise to run with the way Zack's head tilted this way and that at him. Suddenly, the man beamed. "Hey! What's ya name?"

Cloud blinked. "Um, I'm Cloud. Cloud Strife."

Zack's face twisted up. "That accent, where in the boonies did you come from? Soundin' all moutainy, Dudley Doo-Right."

Cloud made an indignant face. "Nibelhiem, where we eat the chicken not the bone."

"Touché, strong words coming from a chocobo's ass," Zack jabbed playfully, his eyes lighting up like a puppy with a new toy.

"Strong words coming from a porcupine's bitch!" Cloud retorted bravely.

Zack laughed and practically pawed at Genesis. "Oh-ho! I love him, can I keep him, can I keep him!"

"Actually yes you can," Genesis grinned. "You're going to watch over him until physicals come up."

Both Cloud and Zack stopped. "Wait what?"

"You were serious?" Cloud asked.

"You can't be serious. Is that even allowed?"

"Zackary, you're 2nd class. Its time you started acting like it. Your own home, your own food, your own little baby chocobo," Genesis fluffed Cloud's hair and was swatted at. "So yes, do me this one teensy weensy favor and I'll owe you."

Zack crossed his arms and cocked his head to the side, looking Cloud over. Cloud did the same sizing up this man he would be staying with. Of course, that required Cloud to look up at him. Damn his stunted growth. Where Cloud was still soft and pudgy in places, Zack was all taught defined muscle that moved under sunkissed cream skin. Sharpened pectorals and broad chest pushed against his navy colored wife beater. Despite the fact that his first impression of him was with a chicken bone in his mouth, Cloud realized that Zack was an amazing example of SOLDIER engineering. Cloud felt slightly intimidated but he refused to let it show. He wouldn't be able to best Zack in a fist fight,but he could stick a foot out to trip him down and that's all that counted. The dark haired SOLDIER suddenly gave a silly grin.

"Okay, I'll keep him! I'll pet him and feed him and love him and call him George!"

Cloud's brow arched. Was every high-ranking SOLDIER this eccentric or was it just people who hung out with Genesis?

Genesis beamed and pet Zack as if he were a puppy. "Good boy, 2nd Lieutenant."

Zack snatched his wrist lighting fast making Cloud's eyes widen. Zack's face sobered and he turned and looked at Genesis. "On one condition."

"What you insufferable mutt," Genesis asked with narrowed eyes.

Zack was quiet for a moment, staring hard at Genesis before breaking into a pout and pleading eyes. "Can you make Angeal not mad at me!" he whined. "He's not talking to me and stuff!"

Cloud almost lost his footing.

"I refuse to fight your battles for you, Zackary," Genesis said haughtily.

"But I'm taking care of the chocobo chick." Zack whined cutely.

"Pansy ass," Cloud said without thinking.

"Your mother!" Zack snapped before returning to his groveling. "Please, Geni!"

Genesis visibly twitched. "I'll do it if you never call me that again!"

"Ah, deal!" Zack straightened up and went over to Cloud. "Okay Choco Ass, is this all ya got cause I only got one spare in this place and it's about the size of a walk in closet!"

"Uh, yeah, just the one."

"That accent is killing me," Zack said snorting as he effortlessly lifted the suitcase from Cloud's hold. He glanced at Genesis. "You're still here? Get out!"

Genesis rolled his eyes and went over to Cloud with apologetic eyes. "This is the first time we've been a part in a week."

"Yeah," Cloud said softly.

"I'll be back tomorrow after I go to debriefing and get your physical lined up. You think you'll be able to handle Wolfy over there."

Cloud leaned and looked at Zack who stuck his tongue out at Genesis while the man's back was turned. "I'm weighing my options..."

"Two strong country boys can't possibly do much damage to each other," Genesis bit his lip and fluffed the soft tufts of blond hair that made up Cloud's spikes. "Well, I best be going. You call if you need anything and perhaps tomorrow if you and Zackary have not killed each other, I'll have a gift for you."

Cloud offered him a gentle smile that made Genesis's heart flutter. "I think I can handle myself."

"Jeez, Geni, you act like I'm going to rape him!"

"Being the hound that you are, I'll probably find you humping his leg on my return!" Genesis bellowed heading to the door. "I'm warning you Zackary Fair, if I come back and a single spike is displaced I will hunt you down and fucking murder you."

Zack's face was comical. "Genesis?"

"What?"

"Get out of my house!"

Genesis scoffed and opened the door, grumbling about mutts and useless dogs. When the door closed, the silence was deafening and slightly awkward. Zack pulled himself up on one of the bar stools that were placed near the breakfast nook. He picked up his plate of food and continued eating, while keeping his eye trained on Cloud. Cloud sat down on the carpeted floor Indian style and rested his hands on his ankles, staring back. Zack chewed, his expression not saying anything, but in his spikey head, he was thinking Cloud looked like a pissy chocobo chick and wondering what the hell was he supposed to do with him. His personal life was a bit too active to have a roommate, but the "no" had died in his throat when he'd looked Cloud up and down. He was small, frail if he did say so and practically swam in those olive green cargo pants and that t-shirt looked a bit big on him. This was one of Genesis SOLDIER candidates, sought out and recruited. There had to be something special about the cute little thing. He wondered if old Genesis had decided to make him a protégé like Angeal. Ah well, he'd save that thought for later. As he shoveled the last spoonful of food in his mouth, he thought of what to do and put his plate down. Best male bonding was done how, ladies and gentlemen?

"Wanna get wasted?"

"Uuuuuuh, sure."

A few hours later, Cloud cracked up when Zack lost his footing and fell out of his victory dance straight onto his face. Cloud had gotten comfortable in a big t-shirt and drawstring shorts, feeling a bit self conscious about his scrawny biceps. They were full, they were wasted and they were kicking some newbie ass in some war games. Zack had been impressed with how fast Cloud had picked up on the controls and was catching up with his skill fairly quickly, especially since the kid had never even picked up a game controller before. Voices erupted over the comm. link whining and cursing at Zack and Cloud for their prowess. Getting a good head shot in on one of the other teams sent Zack into a drunken victory dance that required him to stand on the couch and trample it. This resulted in his foot getting caught on the cushion and him ending up face first on the floor. Cloud relayed to their team that Zack had been assassinated by the couch.

Zack sat up instantly. "I'm okay!"

Cloud laughed and lowered his controller. "The carpet made you its bitch!"

Zack touched his tender cheek. Patches of it were red from scrapping the rough carpet too hard. "Laugh all you want! Let's see how it looks on you!"

Cloud was tackle mid laughed and hit the floor. Zack thought pinning Cloud would be easy, but the blonde gave him a run for his money. He had Zack in a headlock between his legs before long but the SOLDIER literally stood with those legs wrapped around his neck and lifted him up off the floor.

"Holy shit!" Cloud cursed as he was suspended from the ground. Zack unwrapped his legs from around his neck and tossed him on the couch face first in the cushion. "OW!"

"Hah! Whose's the bitch now!"

l

Tseng stood before Veld as he read over his report. He was tired, it was the middle of the night and he wanted to get home to lick the wounds seeing Vincent reopened. Veld had grown visibly older since Vincent's death. The strain of losing all he loved had carved deep stress marks into a once boyish face, the face that used to secretly smile when Vincent was near. Tseng had worked hard to get to his place as 2nd in command, even if Lady ShinRa had said the position had been willed to him. He worked hard, finished academy and did everything the hard way because Vincent didn't believe in free rides and he didn't either. Now, he stood there tall and proud before Veld who no longer even smiled at him.

"And this is everything, Tseng? You've omitted nothing?"

"I only omitted a bit of a ghost story."

"Oh?"

"A sound coming from the Nibelhiem Mansion. But it was nothing more than one of Hojo's experiments as it always tends to be."

Veld nodded, seeming saddened. "The scientist always was one to separate and act on his own. Shall I see you tomorrow night?"

"For Vincent's memorial, yes. I'm surprised I was able to make it back in time. We will all be present though I'm unsure of Lady ShinRa's status…?"

"She will attend. She will be bringing Rufus however, since things have become politically shaky in the company. You would've had to meet him eventually," Veld said with a sigh.

"Sir?" Tseng asked in confusion.

"How do I put this in terms you will understand?" Veld said rubbing his beard. "You will be Rufus's body guard. He will be the Lady ShinRa to your Vincent. He's about fourteen now, old enough for his old man to start pulling him into the office. I don't want that boy alone for a second with the president. He was unable to best his wife because when cornered, Lady ShinRa has one hell of a bite. But Rufus is still young and I hate to say it but our lady has been shielding him, keeping him close to her bosom. With you, I expect no coddling."

Tseng dared to roll his eyes and rub his temple. "I hardly believe that this is a top priority assignment, sir. I don't have time for children."

"Lady ShinRa made time for you!" Veld snapped, his eyes cold. "Could've turned you out of Turk when Vincent died but she saw the potential. Now I'm ordering you to find in Rufus what she found in you worth keeping. Besides, we need to have someone like you at the future president's side."

"Sir?"

"With what's going on in Wutai, it will look better to have Wutain blood at Rufus's side."

"You mean have Wutain blood under his heel," Tseng spat. "You wish to parade me to the paparazzi as a quiet, obedient dog. Proof that Midgardians know how to handle Wutains!"

"That's exactly what I'm saying. Is there something you plan to do about it? You could always resign; I'll give you the gun myself!"

Tseng's eyes flashed with a hint of the blood thirsty beast he had worked over the years to quiet. Veld had always had the makings to be cut throat and cruel or he would not have been Turk. But, since Vincent's passage from this world, he had become colder, crueler, and downright sadistic in his command. Being second, Tseng often had to downplay his treatment of his Turks. His loyalty would force him to follow Veld until the man's death, but loyalty to another would not permit him to respond to Veld's sudden changes in character. They had happened so quickly too. Vincent was not even cold yet before he brought down his iron fist and begun to hold a tight leash on the Turks. To add to this, Tseng often sensed something dark and heavy over Veld's conscience that had something to do with guilt and nothing to do with Vincent. Tseng knew something was amiss with the man since Vincent's death, simply because when Tseng was near the man the beast within him would scream.

"I understand, Director. I will do as I am required," Tseng said turning on his heel. "Give my regards to Heidegger. I got the memo that he is our superior now. So much for Turk."

Veld watched Tseng go, not seeing what everyone else saw. Everyone said Tseng was Vincent incarnate, but where Vincent had empathy and a noble degree of kindness, Tseng only knew loyalty and had no emotions for much of anything. Veld crossed his hands under his chin and stared at the group photo on his desk, his eyes locking onto the slight smile on Vincent's face.

"Your pup won't last, Vincent," he said aloud. "He's a monster in human flesh after all that has happened to him. What the hell were you thinking making him your successor? Is this punishment for all I didn't say? All I could've revealed but didn't."

Tseng made his way tiredly to the elevator. He wanted to return home and wrap himself in what remained of Vincent's scent and silence the beast that screamed for blood. The knowledge of Vincent being alive, albeit out of his mind, only made the beast within pace and roar. He got onto the lift and pressed for the ground floor. He leaned back against the glace and looked out at Midgar over his shoulder. He closed his eyes and sighed as he breathed in, Vincent's scent suddenly filling the enclosed space. He shook his head.

"This is a hallucination…" he said softly. "You aren't here."

"Vincent" leaned against the glass beside him, his eyes unfocused. "I suppose not. How long have you been having these hallucinations about me?"

"Years…but you've never been so vivid, so corporeal. I can practically taste you."

"These inner desires you have call me…will I remember when I become myself I wonder…"

"I wonder as well. But still, I know that you are not real."

"If you say so. You only think of me when this…beast you call it? When this beast pokes its head out?"

Tseng looked away from the figment of his minds stress. "I have yet to actually put these hands to work. It's been only guns and stakeouts and running all over the damn planet."

"You who have the blood of Mother Wutai in your veins cannot summon patience?" The deep chuckle sent a shiver up Tseng's spine. "You want blood, you're thirsty for it even after all the refinement lavished on you. You hunger for flesh to cut yet you have the patience to help me? Tseng, what is the true reason you wish for my return? Is it because you love me…or because I am the only one who can restrain you? Or perhaps, it's because you want my permission…to kill?"

Tseng whipped his head in surprise only to find himself alone. He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. He knew. After being reunited with the real Vincent, he knew that this was merely his subconscious, his beast. But why did that creature have to take on the form that made him vulnerable. He refused to admit that there was something wrong with him; much less that he seriously needed therapy.

The elevator stopped at the Turk floor and someone got in. He didn't lift his head to see who had got on board. He was too tired to care. That was until the scent of tobacco and cinnamon suddenly pervaded his senses and pushed away Vincent's sweeter one. He didn't have to lift his head to know who it was, but he gave the courtesy of acknowledgement.

"Reno."

"Bossman," Reno muttered blowing out smoke, his head tilted back so that it rested against the elevator glass. He's filled out nicely from the scrawny rat that had blown half of the Turk training academy to hell. His straggly red mop had become clean crimson silk that spilled down his shoulders like fresh blood from a paper cut. His unhealthy almost grayish toned skin had grown a pleasing shade of rich peach that he knew held a few scars from their more unsavory missions. Tseng knew of these scars because before given the "Where is Hojo" assignment, Reno and he had become partners. Oh yes, the redhead was a yin to his yang in most areas. Where Tseng was controlled anger like a sudden tsunami choosing to rob those of their very breath, Reno was vicious and untamed like wildfire, consuming all in his presence. Despite how they had met, Tseng counted Reno as one of his best subordinates on the roster…as well as his only friend.

"Hate to say it, yo, but it's good to see your uptight ass," Reno remarked, blowing out smoke.

"Such endearment, to what do I owe it?"

"Heard 'bout Heidegger?"

Tseng held up his phone, indicating that he had got the memo.

"Oh then you only got half the story," Reno reached up and killed the security camera, knowing the night guard wouldn't be paying attention. He moved to be closer to Tseng and pulled a data pad from under his arm, proof that he did work from time to time. "I want you to look at this thing they're making old Lady Red and Reeve engineer."

Tseng took the pad and brushed his hair back behind his ear. It seemed like blue prints of some sort. The design seemed light and it formed some kind of circular device that was most likely meant to be worn. "What am I seeing? Is this an armband?"

"If only…" Reno said shaking his head. "It's fuckin shock collar, yo."

"What?"

"One for each of the Turks who signed on before the Wutai conflict," Reno spat.

"Anyone who joined before Vincent's death," Tseng said, cold anger building in his eyes. "And what did Veld have to say to this."

"Fuckin' pansy backed down! I was there actin' as second while you was out. These mother fuckers have lost their damn mind. Veld is the only one who's not going to get one because he don't do field work anymore."

"And you?"

"I'm getting one too. Old man ShinRa don't trust me. But that's not the point. The point is that there ain't shit we can do about it. There is going to be the wrist band that controls all of them by name and number. And this," He ran his finger over the screen to a unique blue print of the collar that seemed to have more care put into it. "this one is your specifically. It's got a beserker status affect trigger. Pres wants you under his boot and I don't know why, yo."

"Of all people, Scarlet and Reeve had a hand in this."

"Yeah, that's another thing. They ain't got much of a choice. The Pres strong armed his way into Urban Development and indentured Reeve specifically. I think he's threatening him, cuz you know Reeve ain't even like that. He all about helpin' people and don't believe in this shit, but he have to. As far as Scarlet, well, there's something Lady Red ain't tellin nobody and she's trying to keep it that way. Seems like she rather be a cold hearted bitch than let anyone in on the secret."

Tseng nodded as he studied the collar made for him. "How will they even get these on us?"

"That I don't know, but I know that they're done and ready for wear. It's only a matter of time. My question is what the hell are we supposed to do about it? I'm all for a lil' kink but this shit is ridiculous, yo."

"We will do nothing," Tseng muttered handing the data pad back to Reno. "Nothing can be done as of right now but we will have to avoid being alone. How is Melitta?"

"She's working on how to take the damn things apart, but if its Lady Red's design then ain't gone be easy."

"Who all will have access to the controls?"

"The Pres for now, but they can be deactivated by S-Class Turks. Guess who were the only S-Class Turks?"

"Tsuki, Kid, and Vincent…" Tseng closed his eyes recounting their personal files in his mind. "and Veld."

"Yeah, two dead and one a deserter. They're going to be synced to the Administrative Research data bank so if the S-Class is a deserter then they won't have access to it so we can't track her down. The only one still around ain't about to take 'em off."

"How are they deactivated?"

"Voice and thumb print recognition but the S-Class Turk has to say their TID number. So, it's impossible to fake."

"Beautiful."

"Ain't it. We're gonna work on it but yanno it ain't gone go over too good."

Tseng sighed and patted his pocket, feeling stressed. Feeling the emptiness of his breast pocket, Tseng mentally cursed and lowered is hands. Before he could say anything, Reno pressed one of his own flavored cigarettes to Tsengs lips his fingers brushing against the young second's lips. Tseng took it without argument and didn't stop Reno from leaning in and lighting it with his own. With the camera down, Reno dared to slip his hand into Tseng's hair, filling the soft smoother than silk texture that only Wutai blood could achieve. Tseng leaned into and closed his eyes, breathing in the unfamiliar taste of the flavored coffin nails and getting the fix of nicotine that he desperately needed. If anyone were to see them, they would swear they were lover but in the nature of things, they were just two of the same type of sociopath. Reno toyed with his strands of hair idly, not saying a word as the elevator hit the bottom floor. They separated smoothly when telltale ding sounded and they walked out together. The night guard spied them but said nothing of greeting to them. No one spoke to Turk these days. Not with the way things had changed. They had gone from the best cut-throat Black Ops team to simple thugs and criminals in the eyes of the civilian personnel. Still, the two of them made their way into the parking garage, Tseng already acquiescing to Reno's silent offer of a ride home. It was silly really. If they walked out of the elevator together, that meant Tseng needed a ride; if Reno walked out first, it meant "have a good night." When had they developed such a silent communication when during the light of day, Reno was all talk and attitude.

"So, seen ya brother yet?"

"I just got back two hours ago so no I haven't. I expect him to be coddled between Genesis and Angeal."

"You almost sound jealous, yo," Reno remarked walking to his vehicle.

"The day that I'm jealous of Sephiroth having Genesis to nag at him will be the day I finally walk off the top of the ShinRa tower.

"Yeah I hear ya." Reno straddled the crotch-rocket, started it, and kicked up the kickstand. He waited patiently for Tseng to climb on the back and for the delicate hands to slip around his waist. Tseng shut his eyes tiredly and allowed himself to rest against Reno's back. Reno paused in readying the bike to glance over his shoulder at Tseng. The other Turk only allowed such intimacy, even as small as this, when he was dead tired in both mind and body. It was a rare thing to see and it had Reno curious as to what went on when he found Hojo. He said nothing and slipped his goggles over his face. "Let's get the hell outta here, then."

l

Scarlet's eyes roved over the foyer of the ShinRa Manor that had been the highlight of Lady ShinRa's career achievements. Reginald was not home, as usual, most likely out gallivanting with some young slutty thing. Scarlet passed her crimson coat to the maid and walked up the stairs, her red pumps clinking authoritatively on the floor. Even as she was fast approaching mid-forties, she was still shapely, strong, and powerful and knew it. It was by her will and innovation that Lady ShinRa did not lose her ground because of unfortunate handicap. She'd done everything in her power to aid Elloria into keeping her position as one of the Leading Ladies of ShinRa. So when she'd gotten the news from Veld, she wondered what divine force was against them. As she went up the stairs, she passed Lucrecia. They didn't speak; they didn't even make a gesture of greeting. They only eyed each other, lucid blue meeting crazed brown as they went their separate ways. Lucrecia had developed an arrogant swagger in her high heels and swayed sexily as she walked about as if she owned the place. Scarlet scoffed. A real woman didn't need to force it.

"Elloria?" Scarlet called when she reached her sisters office.

The door opened and Scarlet found herself staring down at big crystalline blue eyes that were so light they were almost grey and a tuft of honey blond hair. He was dressed in a white button up shirt with the sleeves neatly rolled up and a dark grey vest. A pair of light colored khakis covered his legs and smooth leather loafers, his feet. The freckles on his face made her smile in nostalgia as the image of young Elloria fussing over her face came to mind.

"Rufus, don't you look dashing today."

"Hello, Scarlet. If you're here to see mother, I ask that you make it brief. She isn't herself today and I'd like her to rest." he said gently, his voice still light and feathery. Though it had none of the masculine bass just yet, there was natural authority and charisma in his voice.

She smiled down at him and gently caressed his cheek. "I'll be sure to make this short, darling. Where is she?" Rufus opened the door wider to let her in and she was able to hear retching. "Oh my."

"Lazard is helping her. I'm going to go get her something to drink," Rufus said leaving.

Scarlet made her way to the attached bathroom and leaned in the doorway. Lady ShinRa was on the floor, her limp legs bunched beneath her as Lazard held her over the commode. His glasses were skewed on his face as he gently supported her and held her hair back.

"It's alright, mother. We'll try lunch later," he whispered comfortingly.

Lady ShinRa panted and made pained sounds as she dry heaved. "Dammit," she cursed, clinging to Lazard. "I'm sorry, Lazard."

"A sorry day it is to see you bent over and broken."

Both Lazard and Lady ShinRa looked up at Scarlet. Elloria whipped her mouth with the back of her hand and pulled herself off the floor back into her chair. Lazard tried to help but she waved him off.

"The day that I am broken, sister, will be the day that Maricella takes my place! No offense Lazard."

"I've already told you, you're the only mother I have." Lazard said smoothly as he picked up the strewn bathroom items.

Scarlet laughed and nodded warmly at Lazard as he passed by. He had grown so tall and very handsome that it was hard to tell he was Reginald's child save for having those deep blue eyes. He and Rufus didn't resemble each other by much but from what she'd witnessed, they got on fine. Scarlet had taken Lazard under her proverbial wing and was raising him intellectually to take the power he rightfully deserved as Reginald's child. She watched Lady ShinRa wheel her chair over to her desk. She had resisted all of Scarlet's offers to have Reeve engineer a powered chair, preferring instead to move of her own strength. She settled behind her desk and cleared up the scattered papers.

"To what do I owe this early morning call, Lady?"

Lady ShinRa rubbed her temples. "Yes, I have some news. Tseng contacted me a couple of days ago saying he'd located Kanaye."

"Oh thank goodness," Scarlet sighed plopping down in the guest chair. "Where has our beloved mad scientist been?"

"Nibelhiem."

"Ah, the birthplace of super SOLDIERs. Fitting, but why has he been in that backwoods place?"

"Tseng reports that he's been working on personal projects and took an interest in one of the local children. He's been playing recluse for the past few years working on god knows what with his personal savings. I'm just happy my friend is alive."

"As we all are, but I feel like that's not all," Scarlet pressed, seeing the tired expression on Lady ShinRa's face. "What's happened?"

She licked her lips and her expression looked both angry and saddened at the same time. She passed papers to Scarlet and averted her eyes. Scarlet picked them up and scanned them…her eyes going wide.

Due to Lady ShinRa's latest illness, she has been unfit to come into the office and therefor unable to run her departments. Therefore the Department of Administrative Research and General Affairs will now fall under Heidegger's jurisdiction while Urban Development will be solely under Reeve Tuesti's hand until further notice. Let us hope for our Lady's speedy recovery.

"This can't be…"

"He's winning, Scarlet…I have to get up from here or he will take ShinRa away from me. If he takes ShinRa away from me then he can take Rufus away. I have to get up from here."

l

Cloud cracked his eye open at around ten in the morning. His head was killing him and his bladder was kicking his ass. Achingly lifting himself from the couch, he stumbled around searching for the bathroom. He could've sworn he'd gone to it last night. As he slid along the walls in search of the bathroom, he found what he learned was Zack's room door cracked open. For curiosity's sake, he peered in to see if his new care taker was around. What he was graced with was a full view of Zack's very impressive bare back having only a pair of comfortable work out pants on. His eyes drunk in a sight he had never seen before. None of the boy of Nibelhiem looked anything like this, not even the woodsmen who spent their days swinging and sawing. Zack's back was flawless. The steely line going down the center to form his spine was not lumped and noticeable like the boys back home. His shoulder blades flexed under his skin as he did his stretches and he noticed that he had what his folks called "Angel Bones." His shoulder blades were able to move to certain point that was almost unnatural as if they were meant to flex wings and not just arms. The muscles in his back, much like the impressive chest he'd gotten a glimpse of the night before, moved like liquid steel beneath such creamy skin. Not to mention, Zack had one of the most amazing asses he had ever seen on any male, boy or man. With a body like that, it was hard to believe that Zack was only nineteen. It made his breath catch to watch Zack bring his body to active duty and he bit his lip wondering if by the time this was all over would he look the same. Beneath that thought was the question: is it possible to fall in love with someone's back? Without realizing it, he'd leaned on the door making it creak and catching Zack's attention. The brunette looked over his shoulder at Cloud and grinned happily.

"Morning, Choco shit! Didn't expect you to come out that coma this early!"

"I-I um," Cloud sputtered and hoped his t-shirt was long enough to cover the fact that he needed to do more that pee. "I-I totally forgot where the bathroom is!"

Zack blinked and shrugged, pulling a muscle shirt over his head and making Cloud swoon at the way those arms and shoulders flexed to maneuver in the fabric. Zack turned pulling it down over his abs and came up to Cloud. "Come on, I'll show you again. You were lit like a Christmas tree last night so I didn't expect you to remember much."

Cloud backed away and subtly pressed himself against the adjacent wall so that he wouldn't brush against Zack. The scent of fresh water and cologne scented body wash filled Cloud's nose accented the growing problem. It practically filled the hall as Zack passed him and motioned for him to follow.

"I only got one bathroom so we're sharing. I ain't picky, but you better at least clean up after yourself."

Cloud made affirmative sounds as he followed, wincing on every step. Stupid teenage hormones. After Zack had showed him the bathroom, which was embarrassingly across from his assigned room, the SOLDIER left to go make some form of breakfast. Cloud sighed after he left and winced painfully at his full bladder and current state of arousal. Cold shower and clean clothes were a good idea.

"Hey Choco shit, since ya gonna be here indefinitely wanna go sightseeing?"

Cloud leaned out of the bathroom after having the world's most painful urination and coldest shower. "What?"

"Sight. See. Ing," Zack repeated slowly. "Ya know, take in the sights before you end up locked down in a compound for the year."

Cloud wasn't even sure if he would really pass the physical like Hojo had guaranteed. If they only had people like Zack in their ranks, what chance did his scrawny ass stand? "Uh, yeah I guess."

"Cool, put a shirt on and come eat."

Cloud did as he was told and was greeted with the scent of bacon, eggs, and biscuits with gravy. It was a country breakfast if he ever smelled one. A plate was waiting for him with thick slabs of bacon like he got back home and fluffy scrambled eggs. Zack grabbed his own plate and sat down at the small nook next to Cloud.

"Say grace!" Zack said popping his hand away from the bacon.

Cloud rolled his eyes. "Gaia, please let this not be poison and thank you for it even though it probably tastes like tire rubber considering who cooked it!"

"Hey you little shit! I cook just fine thank you!"

"Bet that's the last time you ask me to say grace!" Cloud shouted and ate.

Zack shook his head with a laugh and shoved a piece of bacon in his mouth.

l

A/N: I'm thinking of making the chapters longer now that I've got time and I'm back home. So much is going to be happening that it only makes sense to do so but the question is if you guys would be willing to read all that txt. It would be easier to put a lot more action in if they got longer but it would mean it would take teensy bit longer. I'm going to go back to updating every few days if I keep them this length but if you're okay with longer do let me know. As always read and review! And LOVE ALL OF YOU! Thank you so much for the support on this story. This story has been plotted all the way to season three if it stays strong. After all, you guys gotta wonder how Cloud and Sephiroth are going to be together. I don't believe a story should stop at the get together! Its no fun! Review, let me know! The drama maker is back, yo! XD

P.S: we're going to touch on Reno and Tseng's relationship. its not what ya think though that would be hot XD okay maybe its a little like that. ah screw it, just wait and see!
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Walking Out on Destiny