The coffee was stale and the whole cofrence room reaked of something that Cloud couldn't quite figure out. He was rather new to the police force here in Midgar, the bustling metropolise.  Cloud sighed and pushed the coffee away.... not really wanting stale coffee anyway. The door opened and Rufus walked in, which was sure to brighten Cloud's day, seeing that they both liked eachother quite a bit.

"Morning Cloud." Rufus smiled.

"Morning.... I hate paperwork ...."  Cloud said glumly... but still appeared to be happy Rufus was there.

Rufus sat next to him and looked at what he was doing. "Yeah, I hate it to. Something I've had to do all my life thanks to... dad.." Rufus stuck out his tongue with his last words, then grinned at Cloud again.

"Does it ever end.... for one hour of actual footwork we get to do theres 12 of paperwork...."

"I don't know... sometimes things last forever, sometimes not."

"You wanna come clubbing with me this weekend?  Im not on duty.... for once"

"Sure. Sounds like fun."

"Yeah it is.... specially when I get sloshed

Rufus chuckled. "How true. And you always need someone to take you back home after."

"yeah.... will you be my designated... dragger?"

"Dragger?"

"Yeah.... to drag me out of bars when Ive had too much"

"And bring you back home... of course."

"Yeah..... and tuck me in and leave me for the hangover fairy"

Rufus chuckled. "I suppose so. Better me bringing you home then someone else, right?"

"Yeah..... "  Cloud said with a small shudder.

"Ever had that happen?"

"Umm.... do I have to talk?"

"You gonna tell me?"

"Prefer not to"

"Alright. I'll just asume the answer is yes then."

Cloud nodded. Rufus looked over the papers and started to work on them for Cloud. Cloud smiled and got back to what he had been writing before. When it got to the end of the day they were both stiff and sore from all the paper work.

"Ohhh... geez.... cant we get some action?" Cloud grumbled and stretched, his muscles rolling smoothly under his shirt.

"I guess we can... this weekend that is." Rufus picked up the papers and seemed to watch him for a minute before standing up.

"Yeah.... mmm.... weekend.... you know.... I think next time I get off Im gonna rent a room with a Jacuzzi.....  "   Cloud said wistfully.... "And get room service...."

"That sounds good... but that will eat up money."

"Yeah... but I deserve it...."

"How true. Purhaps I do as well."

"Okay.. well I better get home..... if I dont feed my cat in time he claws up my stuff"

"Ok. See you tomorrow Cloud." Rufus smiled again and headed off.

Cloud waved and headed home as well. The next night Rufus picked him up at his place to go clubbing. Cloud was wearing leather pants and a cute little vest.... which would probably surprise Rufus a bit.

Rufus just smiled, an eyebrow lifting some. He was dressed in an all white suit, which he often wore to go out clubbing in. "So, where did you want to go?"

<Phoenix> "The usual"

<Sanosuke> "Ok." It didn't take them too long to get there and Rufus walked in first. it looked like the usall crowd.

<Phoenix> Cloud peeks around Rufus and smiles "Same old same old...."

<Sanosuke> "Yep. Gonna sit at the bar again?"

<Phoenix> "how bout a booth tonight?"

<Sanosuke> :Ok then. I'll find an open one."

<Phoenix> "Alright"  Cloud says with a small grin

<Sanosuke> Rufus slipped off into the crowd in search of a booth.

<Sanosuke> In the crowd Cloud spotted a flash of black and silver..

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns and shoulders through the crowd to see if he can find Rufus.....  feeling strangely menaced at the moment

<Sanosuke> Rufus was just clearing out a booth and sliding in, waving Cloud over.

<Phoenix> Cloud smiles and heads for him.... somewhat relieved

<Sanosuke> "You ok Cloud?" Rufus asked.

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... just felt a little chill...  ever get those weird feelings?"

<Sanosuke> "Sometimes. Why? Cops instinct?"

<Phoenix> "Maybe....  just weird....."

<Sanosuke> "Well, they say ever cop has a gut feeling... we call it cop instinct. Maybe you're getting it."

<Phoenix> "Maybe....  can I drown myself in liquor now?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah sure... knock yourself out." Rufus smiled and leaned back, gazing around at the people.

<Phoenix> Cloud grins and waves a waiter over

<Sanosuke> "Yes?" The waiter asked, "What can I get for you?"

<Phoenix> "A bottle of ... hmm... peach schnapps..."  Cloud purrs....

<Sanosuke> "Yes sir. and for you?" he turned to Rufus.

<Sanosuke> "Scotch.. straight up..." Rufus told him.

<Sanosuke> The waiter nodded and left to get their drinks.

<Phoenix> Cloud swings his legs and watchs the crowd.... his eyebrows raising whenever he sees something that interests him

<Sanosuke> That's when he saw... him.... the most beautiful person in creation it seemed. Long, silver hair.... a msucled chest clearly seen and barely covered by his cloak straps.... black clothing... and aqua eyes that seemed 

<Sanosuke> to just glow.

<Phoenix> "Holy.... would you look at him?"  Cloud murmurs... 

<Sanosuke> Rufus looked around. "Who? Where?"

<Phoenix> "That one.... with the silver hair..... "  Cloud says and points

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded slowly. "Geez... someone who could stop the whole club...."

<Phoenix> "I would pay... to .....   "  Cloud says... then stops himself

<Sanosuke> Rufus glanced at him, and sighed softly.

<Phoenix> "But... then again I probably couldnt pay him enough.... "  Cloud says with a sigh

<Sanosuke> "Cloud, come on... you know it isn't legal anyway... the vice squad would be on your ass in a heart beat. and you don't want them there."

<Phoenix> "Yeah I know... but... damn..... "

<Phoenix> "Ouch......  they dont make too many that hot anymore...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "I see. But what's the fun in that anyway? Ultra pretty faces only let you down in the end."

<Phoenix> "Yeah..."

<Sanosuke> The waiter placed there drinks on the table and walked away.

<Phoenix> Cloud grabs his bottle and doesnt even bother pouring it in a glass

<Sanosuke> Rufus picked up his glass and started sipping

<Phoenix> Cloud gets about halfway through the bottle before his head hits the table

<Sanosuke> Rufus pulled the bottle away from Cloud and sighed, patting his head.

<Phoenix> "Im okay... just... my head wont stay up...."  cloud says.... slurring his words

<Sanosuke> "You're drunk Cloud."

<Phoenix> "no... Im fine....."

<Sanosuke> "You're drunk." Rufus grinned at him and patted his head.

<Phoenix> "Dont wanta go home just yet....."

<Sanosuke> "Not gonna bring you home yet."

<Phoenix> "M'kay.... I jus.... jus wanna look a lil while longer...."

<Sanosuke> "Alright, but no more drinking." Rufus finished his scotch.

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns and reaches for where he left his bottle

<Sanosuke> Rufus pulled it away from him. "No drinking when you can't sit up.'

<Phoenix> "But I can....."

<Sanosuke> "No you can't..."

<Phoenix> Cloud struggles for a moment and pretty much falls out of the booth

<Sanosuke> rufus helped keep him in and sighed. "See?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... I guess youre right..."

<Sanosuke> "Want to go home yet?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah I guess.... "  Cloud mumbles

<Sanosuke> "Alright." Rufus stood up and helped Cloud to his feet after paying the bill.

<Sanosuke> As they left.. the silver haired beauty seemed to be watching them.

<Phoenix> Cloud leans on Rufus slightly  "mmm... we should see if we can do a sting operation.... you could be my pimp....."  Cloud purrs

<Sanosuke> "We're not vice Cloud... We're homicide..."

<Phoenix> "Aww..... "  Cloud says and sighs

<Sanosuke> "You can transfer if you like, but I'm sticking to homicide."

<Phoenix> "mm'kay...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus headed to Cloud's home and searched for his spare key to let them both in.

<Phoenix> Cloud staggers along with him.... being in general bad with his hands

<Sanosuke> Rufus didn't seem to notice as he got Cloud's appartment door open and helped him inside.

<Phoenix> "you gonna stay with me....?"  Cloud murmurs

<Sanosuke> "You think you need someone to watch over you?" Rufus locked the door behind them and helped Cloud to his bed.

<Phoenix> "If you wanna...."  Cloud purrs... his hands clumsily tugging at Rufus' pants

<Sanosuke> Rufus blinked. "Cloud... you're drunk. You'll hate yourself in the morning if you don't let go." Rufus sat on the edge of the bed anyway.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs  "Yeah... Im ... gonna sleep now.. "

<Phoenix> Cloud lets go and curls up.... looking quite cute

<Sanosuke> Rufus stroked his hair a little then sat down in a chair by the bed.

<Phoenix> Cloud hugs a pillow to himself and burries his face in it

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed and watched Cloud, making sure he wasn't too drunk.

<Phoenix> Cloud is purring in his sleep... cuddling the pillow as if it was a lost love

<Sanosuke> Rufus eventually fell asleep in the chair, snoring softly.

<Phoenix> Cloud wakes up in the middle of the night feeling monstrously sick.... and staggers for the bathroom

<Sanosuke> Rufus was still fast asleep, and Cloud didn't notice him till he got back to the bedroom after throwing up in the bathroom.

<Phoenix> Cloud smiles... his head a little clearer now 

<Sanosuke> Rufus looked rather cute asleep, his head down on his chest almost as he sat in the chair.

<Phoenix> "Youre too good to me Rufus...."  cloud says softly and touches his cheek

<Sanosuke> Rufus made a soft sound in his sleep and leaned slightly against the touch, but didn't wake.

<Phoenix> "youre so cute..... but... "

<Sanosuke> But they were friends.... partners.... hell, Rufus taught him everything about being a detective.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs "You look uncomfortable too..."

<Sanosuke> Very... considering he was sitting in Cloud's hard chair.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs and pulls Rufus out of the chair 

<Sanosuke> Rufus was still asleep, but moved slightly to the pulling.

<Phoenix> Cloud lugs him onto the bed

<Sanosuke> Rufus lay there once on it and snored softly.,

<Phoenix> Cloud smiles and pulls a blanket over Rufus.... then carries a pillow out to his couch

<Sanosuke> When Rufus woke he was surprised to find himself in the bed and Cloud not there.

<Phoenix> Cloud is still passed out on the couch.... an open bottle of aspirin sitting on the coffee table

<Sanosuke> Rufus shook him gently after finding him on the couch.

<Phoenix> Cloud mmphs and rolls over

<Sanosuke> "Cloud?" Rufus asked.

<Phoenix> "yeah?"  he answers..... and opens a bloodshot eye

<Sanosuke> "You look like hell. Why you sleeping on the couch?"

<Phoenix> "Cuz you looked uncomfortable in my chair...."

<Sanosuke> "I asked why you were sleeping on the couch and not your bed."

<Phoenix> "Because... you were in my bed.... I put you there.... and I wasnt sure if you'd be mad if I curled up next to you so I... came out here"

<Sanosuke> "Oh. Still, it was your bed. I'm sorry I took it up."

<Phoenix> "No its okay.....  "

<Sanosuke> "How do you feel?"

<Phoenix> "Head hurts..... "

<Sanosuke> "You should go back to your bed and get some more sleep."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods and stands up....   "You dont have to stick around ... Im okay now"

<Sanosuke> "Alright. I'll be at my place if you need anything, ok?"

<Phoenix> Cloud nods and smiles "I have your number set to autodial position 1....."

<Sanosuke> "Good to know." Rufus smiled and let himself out.

<Phoenix> Cloud returns to his room and strips down.... then passes out on his bed..... always preferring to sleep in the buff

<Sanosuke> Dreams came... dreams of that silver haired beauty he had spotted in the club.

<Phoenix> "mm.... gorgeous...."  Cloud mumbles in his sleep

<Sanosuke> He dreamed of running his hands over the flesh he saw... the tight muscles.... and that silky-looking hair.

<Phoenix> Cloud's hands move in his sleep .... as if he were really caressing that body

<Sanosuke> That body.. that perfect looking body... those eyes peering into his own. Those lips he longed to kiss....

<Phoenix> Cloud whimpers slightly in his sleep... his body never having wanted someone that badly before

<Sanosuke> Even Rufus.... and he'd had dreams about Rufus before... but nothing quite as intense and as driving as this.

<Phoenix> Cloud's fingers dig into the bed as his dreams become more and more wildly erotic

<Sanosuke> "Come to me..." He thought he heard the man whisper in his dream.

<Phoenix> "come?"  Cloud murmurs out loud.... 

<Sanosuke> "Come to me and by mine..." His voice sounded musical, and alluring.

<Phoenix> "where....?"

<Sanosuke> "You'll know..."

<Sanosuke> and the dream faded, leaving cloud to wake up.

<Phoenix> Cloud wakes up in a sweat.... 

<Phoenix> "Geez... Ive never.... had a dream like that before... "  He murmurs... and discovers that he's going to need to change the sheets as well

<Sanosuke> even those dreams about Rufus were not like this at all.

<Phoenix> Cloud rubs his temples and decides to get a shower....  his mind still dwelling on the dream

<Sanosuke> On the idea of pressing close to that beauty... of having him inside... 

<Phoenix> "This is gonna drive me nuts...."  Cloud whimpers and puts his head against the wall of the shower

<Sanosuke> He was getting hard again just from those thoughts.

<Phoenix> "Damnit... Im gonna have to go back to that club...."

<Sanosuke> this time without Rufus.... 

<Phoenix> Cloud finishes his shower and dries himself.... pulling on a decent outfit..... yet not as provocative as he was wearing the night before

<Sanosuke> Perhaps the silver-haired man would be there at the club again... perhaps they could meet...

<Phoenix> "Its probably just my imagination.... the guy's probably going to ignore me.... if he's even there..."  Cloud says to himself....

<Phoenix> "But I gotta ...  meet him..."

<Sanosuke> Meet him to see at least what he was like... 

<Phoenix> Cloud thinks about calling Rufus before he leaves.... so he knows where he is.... but decides to pass it off..... since he's used to clubbing

<Sanosuke> and besides, he wanted to go without Rufus this time....

 

The club was active as usal on weekends... again, mostly the regulars, but Cloud could almost FEEL he was there too.,

<Phoenix>  Cloud moves over to the bar.... his usual spot

<Phoenix> "this is probably really dumb of me..."  Cloud murmurs to himself

<Sanosuke> That drunk redhead that Cloud had always figured was into orginized crime was back at the bar, drinking everyone under the table as usal.

<Phoenix> Cloud smirks at him and shakes his head.... then orders himself a drink..... mindful to try and not get too drunk this time

<Sanosuke> It was the same redhead that had tried to take advantage of him before.... but at least he wasn't looking this way.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs and stretches... then decides to turn and look out at the dance floor

<Sanosuke> That';s when he spotted the flash of silver hair across the room.

<Phoenix> Cloud practically jumps to his feet

<Sanosuke> The silver-haired beauty was standing on the other side of the room, his aqua eyes flashing in Cloud's direction.

<Phoenix> Cloud moves towards him.... as if he's compelled to do so

<Sanosuke> The trip across the room seemed to take forever, but it wasn't really long at all before he got to the man.

<Phoenix> Cloud stands before him.... and just blinks

<Sanosuke> "Hello there." The man said softly.

<Phoenix> "Umm.... hello...."

<Sanosuke> "I've seen you staring at me across the room."

<Phoenix> "I.... didnt mean to stare.... Im sorry if it bothered you"

<Sanosuke> "Oh, no... you didn't bother me at all."

<Phoenix> "Oh.... thats good... "  Cloud says... bowing his head in relief

<Sanosuke> "You do seem to want something of course."

<Phoenix> "Well... I had this dream.... and ..... well you wouldnt believe it... Im just a pervert"

<Sanosuke> The man chuckled. "Wow, never heard anyone admit the truth before... that's a new one."

<Phoenix> "It bothered me enough to have to come and talk to you...."

<Sanosuke> "Really? How come?"

<Phoenix> "Well.... Ive never.... dreamed that intense before....

<Sanosuke> "What sort of dream?" The man grinned in such a way that it lurred Cloud in.

<Phoenix> "A really... wild ... and erotic dream...."

<Sanosuke> "Now, those are nice, arn't they?"

<Phoenix> "Yes.... and.... well... I didnt think I'd ever be able to sleep again..... if I didnt come and just ..... talk "

<Sanosuke> "I see... and what have your learnd from talking?"

<Phoenix> "Well... Im not really sure.... I havent asked you anything yet... but...youre probably going to turn me down:

<Sanosuke> "I didn't say that..."

<Phoenix> "n.... no?"

<Sanosuke> "Why do you think I would turn you down?"

<Phoenix> "Cuz... Im... not that good looking....."

<Sanosuke> "You're not bad looking."

<Phoenix> "I.... Im not?"

<Sanosuke> "No, you're kind of cute."

<Phoenix> "wow... thats a real compliment coming from.... someone as gorgeous as you....."

<Sanosuke> The man grinned. "what's your name?"

<Phoenix> "Cloud"

<Sanosuke> "I'm Sephiroth."

<Phoenix> "Sephiroth... a nice name.... bit odd"

<Sanosuke> "Is it now? I've never noticed..."

<Phoenix> "Its a nice name though.... exotic... fits you perfectly...."

<Sanosuke> "You see me as exotic?"

<Phoenix> "Gods.... youre hte most beautiful thing Ive ever seen.... of course... you are exotic...."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled. "I suppose I am..." His aqua eyes peeered down at Cloud.,

<Phoenix> Cloud looks back up at Sephiroth, transfixed by his eyes

<Sanosuke> "Do you come here often?" Sephiroth asked.

<Phoenix> "Whenever I get off from work"

<Sanosuke> "Then hopefuly I'll see you here again for now I must leave." Sephiroth started to walk away.

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns

<Sanosuke> Soon he had vanished into the crowd.

<Phoenix> "Gods..... Im gonna have to drink myself to sleep.... but better just take a bottle for the road...."  Cloud murmurs to himself

<Sanosuke> The next day he was awoken by his urgently rigging phone.. it made his head pound worse with his hangover.

<Phoenix> Cloud reaches for the phone and fumbles with it

<Phoenix> "Ehh.... who is it?"

<Sanosuke> "Cloud..." Rufus's voice said, "You'd better get down here right away."

<Phoenix> "Uhh Rufus my head... is kiling me....."

<Sanosuke> "You're needed here... we've had a homicide."

<Phoenix> "Ohh... okay..... Rufus..... I'll be down as soon as I can get ....outta bed"

<Sanosuke> "Alright. Please hurry." He hung up.

<Phoenix> Cloud drags himself out of bed and dresses

<Sanosuke> The pounding wouldn't go away... and he needed to get down to the station.

<Phoenix> Cloud pops several aspirin and pulls on his trenchcoat.... then staggers out the door to where his car is parked

<Sanosuke> It didn't take long to get there at least.... and Rufus was waiting... smoking a cigarette.. something he did when he got nervous or upset.

<Phoenix> "Rufus.... whats up?"  Cloud sys... looking  bleary eyed

<Sanosuke> "I told you... a homicide..." Rufus headed into the building, not carring to dispose of his cig.

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns and follows Rufus

<Sanosuke> They walked into the morge where the body of an atractive boy with aburn hair lay on the table... naked.

<Phoenix> "what got him?"

<Sanosuke> rufus removed the sheet over the body's torso.. which uncovered the marks across the chest from some sort of blade, like a knife or something. they looked to regular up and down and across to have been a random act, it

<Sanosuke> looked to planned.

<Phoenix> "Yep.... definately our department...... there any Coffee Rufus?"

<Sanosuke> "Over on the other side of the room." he continued to puff, taking the chart at the body's feet.

<Phoenix> Cloud goes and gets himself a cup... making a face at its taste

<Phoenix> "Any witnesses.... suspects... or is this a freakin open ended case?"

<Sanosuke> "His name was Irvine Kinneas... a young rich boy who liked to frequent clubs and pick up hookers..."

<Phoenix> "Ahh... so we gotta pull in some hookers..... we got any in lockup from last night?

<Sanosuke> "Nope. The kid was probably doing drugs too." Rufus shook his head saddly.

<Phoenix> "Wow... a night we didnt pick up any hookers.... musta been a good one..."

<Sanosuke> "I guess so. Let's find out who he was with last night... maybe she knows something."

<Phoenix> "Kei...."  cloud says.... and yawns

<Sanosuke> "That means a club he was at. Hmmm..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus finished his cigarette.

<Phoenix> "Theres a couple that work out of where we usually go"

<Sanosuke> "Alright. Let's go question them first then."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods and leans on Rufus for a moment as he tries to wake up a little more

<Sanosuke> Rufus pulled out another cig and lit up, heading for his car with the folder.

<Phoenix> Cloud wonders if Rufus is ticked at him as he follows

<Sanosuke> Rufus got into the car, still smoking. Perhaps he was just very upset about something.

<Phoenix> Cloud slips into the passenger's seat

<Sanosuke> "Late night?" Rufus asked him, driving off toward the club.

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... I went back to the club...."

<Sanosuke> "I see... we're here again..." Rufus parked and got out of the car.

<Phoenix> Cloud gets out as well... and frowns "You mad that I didnt bring you?"

<Sanosuke> "No..." rufus walked into the club, cigerette still in  his mouth.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs and follows him...... 

<Sanosuke> "Where are they?" Rufus asked, looking at Cloud.

<Phoenix> "They usually hang out in there" Cloud says and points to a secluded room... separated from the rest by a beaded curtain

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded and headed over to the room, sliding the curtain aside.

<Phoenix> A Burly man steps up to Rufus and glares at him "This is a private room.... ya know

<Sanosuke> Rufus puffed smoke in his face. "Exactly why I want to come in."

<Phoenix> "I cant let ya do that..... ya know... now would ya please get out?"

<Sanosuke> "Why can't I come in?"

<Phoenix> "Cuz.... I said ya cant.... ya know?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus took out his wallet.. but rather then flashing his badge he took out a few hundred dollar bills.

<Phoenix> "Aint it a little early to be takin out escorts?"  the man asks suspiciously.... 

<Sanosuke> "Not for those who sleep a lot during the day.... we want to have some fun." He waved the bills before the man's face.

<Phoenix> "Alright... alright.... just dont rile em up....."  the man says and snatches the money

<Sanosuke> "I won't..." Rufus walked past them into the back room.

<Phoenix> Cloud tags along after Rufus.... eyeing the bouncer for a moment 

<Sanosuke> Rufus gave a grin to those lounging in the room, after all he was a handsom blonde with pretty blue eyes.

<Phoenix> a few of them look up from what they are doing.... painting nails or playing cards

<Sanosuke> He finnaly put out his cigarette, "Morning girls."

<Phoenix> "Mornin mister..."  one Replies

<Sanosuke> He glanced over at her, smiling warmly.

<Phoenix> "What kinda experience level ya lookin for?"  She asks... going into the regular spiel....

<Sanosuke> "It all depends on my mood."

<Phoenix> "Better not be a bad one.....  dont like it when youre rough with us girls....."

<Sanosuke> "I'm not really the rough type..."

<Phoenix> "Well give me an idea what youre looking for and I will set you up"  She says with a wink

<Phoenix> "Oh yes... and a price range...."

<Sanosuke> "Well, I have this friend that mentioned that one of the girls here was extra nice... at least I asume he meant here since this is our favorate place to hang... so I was interested in meeting this girl. He didn't tell me her name though.. and price is no option.. I'm rich."

<Phoenix> "Know what she looks like?"

<Sanosuke> "Nope, but I got my friend's picture.,.. I don't know if he used his real name here so I'm not even gonna bother with it." He reached into his pocket and took out a picture of Irvine before he die, and showed it to the girl.

<Phoenix> "Ohh him... huh?  He liked the young ones..."

<Sanosuke> "Really? I guess it was another side of him I didn't know. Was he here last night at all? I havn't spoken to him since yesterday when he said he was gonna go out and get him some fun."

<Phoenix> "Yeah he was here.... the girl he took out came home early with no pay though..... "

<Sanosuke> "Can I meet her?"

<Phoenix> "Sure.... if her boss is done yelling at her...."

<Sanosuke> "I can wait... I'll pay her double what she was supposed to make last night if it helps matters."

<Phoenix> The woman nods and goes off through a second door to fetch whom she is talking about

<Sanosuke> Rufus sat down and waited.

<Phoenix> The woman returns with a rather young looking red head.... who doesnt really look like hooker material..... but she's there nonetheless

<Sanosuke> Rufus stood up. "This the one?"

<Phoenix> "Yep.... here she is.... all yours"

<Sanosuke> Rufus grinned slightly and reached out, letting his fingers stroke her hair.

<Phoenix> The girl flinches slightly.... apparently not used to this yet

<Sanosuke> "Got a place we can go be alone?"

<Phoenix> "Upstairs .... or you can take her along with you...."  The woman answers for the girl.... and points to a set of stairs

<Sanosuke> "I think I'll take her along with me, I know just the place."

<Phoenix> "Alright... just have her back before the evening she's got another shift to work then..."

<Phoenix> The woman gives the girl a slight nudge.... then returns to her card game

<Sanosuke> "I will." Rufus took her by the hand and walked off, whispering to Cloud "Stay at the club... I'll meet you back here." Before walking out the door with the girl.

<Phoenix> Cloud nods and hopes he can remember to stay out of the liqour..... as he wanders back out into the club and plunking down at a booth

<Sanosuke> Rufus took the girl to a hotel he knew, got a room, and led her up.

<Phoenix> The girl seems to be resentful of the whole process.... and remains silent

<Sanosuke> Rufus took out some money and handed it to her after he closed the door.

<Phoenix> She looks at him confusedly "You pay after.... you know"

<Sanosuke> "I just need info..." He said, leaning on the door.

<Phoenix> "Info?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes. On the man you were with last night..."

<Phoenix> "Why do you wanna know about him?"

<Sanosuke> "He was found murdered this morning.... pretty much gutted. His wallet was untouched, so I'm figuring it probably wasn't you since I heard your boss was mad at you for not bringing money home... if you had killed him, 

<Sanosuke> I'm sure you would have taken his money so your boss wouldn't yell..."

<Phoenix> "I left him because he was being..... rough with me.... wanted me to do more than he paid for.... "

<Phoenix> "or was going to pay for anyway...  "

<Sanosuke> "I see. Did you see him with anyone after you left?"

<Phoenix> The girl shakes her head "No...  just that he came back into the club after me.... but stopped following me"

<Sanosuke> "So, you didn't see who he might have left with?"

<Phoenix> "No.... well.... he was talking to some guy.... but I didnt stick around to see who"

<Sanosuke> "Any idea what this other guy looked like?"

<Phoenix> "The drunk that always hangs out at the one end of the bar...."

<Phoenix> "I dont really know.... anyone around the club yet...."

<Sanosuke> "How old are you?"

<Phoenix> "..... sixteen...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus frowned and nodded. "Only... two years younger... then my brother..."

<Phoenix> "Youre not a cop are you?"  she asks... fidgeting 

<Sanosuke> "Look... I'm not gonna bust you or anything... I just want to find out who killed this guy.... And keep the money..... please don't spend it on drugs..." Rufus walked out of the room and headed back to the club.

<Phoenix> The girl looks confused for a moment..... then slips the money into her pocket .... greatful that she's not going to get shouted at tonight.....

<Phoenix> Meanwhile cloud is sitting at his table.... boredly drawing on it with water from his glass 

<Sanosuke> Rufus rounded up Cloud and told him what he had been told. "Guess we need to question the red head..."

<Phoenix> "Oh.... you go head Rufus.... I have..... to do somethin elsewhere...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed. "Alright Cloud."

<Phoenix> Cloud slinks out of the bar.... not wanting anything to do with Reno

 

The girl's boss was waiting for her.

<Phoenix> The girl bows her head and holds out the money Rufus gave her.... afraid to look at the one who was raging at her earlier

<Sanosuke> He took the money. "You were not there very long... what did he want?"

<Phoenix> Lina fidgets  "He asked questions...."

<Sanosuke> "Questions?" Her boss turned to her, lifting up her chin so he could look into her eyes.

<Phoenix> "About... the guy I was with... last night"  Lina says... desperately trying to look away

<Sanosuke> "And? What about him?"

<Phoenix> "Well.... he died... someone killed him...."

<Sanosuke> "And you talked to this man today about it? What was his name?"

<Phoenix> "He... didnt tell me his name...:

<Sanosuke> "Foolish girl..." He gripped her cheeks hard and snarled.

<Phoenix> The girl whimpers and tries to pull away

<Sanosuke> He pulled her back, letting go of her chin but grabbing her arm. "You're not leaving Lina..."

<Phoenix> "leggo!  please... I didnt mean...."

<Sanosuke> "I think you need to be taught a lesson..."

<Phoenix> "Noo.... please...."

<Sanosuke> "He was probably a cop... we could all be arrested... so you must be punished."

<Phoenix> "But he said he wasnt going to .... bust... "

<Sanosuke> "You were the last person to see a murdered man alive... which makes you a suspect, right?"

<Phoenix> "He said I wasnt though.... because there was still money in the man's wallet.... or at least he didnt think it was me..."

<Sanosuke> "You didn't drop him my name, did you?"

<Phoenix> "no... "

<Sanosuke> "Good... at least you did something right." He pushed her onto the couch, letting go of her arm.

<Phoenix> "Days like this I think I'd be better off dead....."  Lina mutters to herself

<Sanosuke> "Do you now?" She had forgotten he had very sensitive hearing.

<Phoenix> Lina winces

<Sanosuke> He walked over and stood before her, folding his arms.

<Phoenix> "I... I didnt mean.... I ... just wish I had made some better choices...."

<Sanosuke> He reached his hand out and ran it through her hair. "Regretting one's past only leads to despair child."

<Phoenix> "Too late for that....."  She replies.... flinching away from him

<Sanosuke> "Hmph. I don';t regret the choices I've made... leaving the priest hood and going into the world of orginized crime. Far more prophitable and fun here."

<Phoenix> " I regret each and every choice that brought me to this.... near slavery...."

<Sanosuke> "It's too late Lina... enjoy what you got..."

<Phoenix> "Theres a way out.... I know there is...."

<Sanosuke> "Anyway... time for you to get back into the club and make me some more money.,.."

<Phoenix> Lina sighs and her shoulder sag  

<Phoenix> "Yes sir...."

<Sanosuke> "Good girl..."

<Phoenix> Lina gets up and moves off to fix herself up a little before returning to "work"

<Sanosuke> Back at the station Rufus was frowning. "He didn't tell us much of anything..."

<Phoenix> "Course not... they never do do they?"

<Sanosuke> He shook his head. "No, scum don't... he only said Irvine said a few words to him then left..."

<Phoenix> "So we know nothing more than where we started?"

<Sanosuke> "Not really, no. But I got a feeling something's up with our favorate club..."

<Phoenix> "Oh?  you mean the ... little brothel in the back?"

<Sanosuke> "That might be part of it... I wonder who owns it. That poor girl seemed rather afraid of her 'boss'."

<Phoenix> "She looked rather afraid of you too... like you were leading her to her death or somethin....."

<Sanosuke> "I noticed... Got me worried..." He sighed. "She's only 16... why is she selling herself??"

<Phoenix> "Because... not everyone makes it...."

<Sanosuke> "I know... I know that all too well." Rufus reached for a cigarette and lit up, sighing hard.

<Phoenix> "I think I'd rather die than do that though..."

<Sanosuke> "Me too. I don't understand why people would do that..."

<Phoenix> "Think her parents  sold her into it?"

<Sanosuke> "Probably she ran away.... she doesn't look like a druggie to me... and she seemed rather new to it."

<Phoenix> "wanna go fish her out if youre so worried about it/"

<Sanosuke> "And just how do you say we do that?"

<Phoenix> "Make her disappear"

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed and shook his head. "It's not that simple Cloud. Besides, she's probably staying for a reason."

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... I know I know....

<Sanosuke> "Anyway. Did you find anything out?"

<Phoenix> "Nope... just watched people come and go pretty much...."

<Phoenix> "Want me to go stake it out tonight.... see if anyone is talking about.....it?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes, please." Rufus puffed on his cigarette and seemed just a tad distant.

<Phoenix> "They probably know youre a cop now.... you know..... at the club"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah, I'll just stick around here..."

<Phoenix> "Probably know I am too.... but eh... no big deal for me..."

<Sanosuke> "Just be careful, ok?"

<Phoenix> "I will... and I promise....no drinking"

<Sanosuke> "Good. I'll either be here or at home... so just page me if you need anything."

<Phoenix> "Alright.... dont worry bout me... "  Cloud says... and stands to pluck the cigarette otu of Rufus' mouth

<Sanosuke> Rufus frowned and pulled the Cigarette back. "What was that for?"

<Phoenix> "You shouldnt be usin these... bad for you"

<Sanosuke> "They help me calm down..."

<Phoenix> "Find somethin else to calm you down then..."  Cloud says... and musses Rufus' hair

<Sanosuke> Rufus kept a mask face, putting the cig back in his mouth.

<Phoenix> "Youre impossible sometimes Rufus.... "  Cloud says.... putting on a pouty face  "I'll tell you if Ive found anything in the morning"

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded. "Thanks. Now get going, ok?"

<Phoenix> "Okay okay... "  Cloud says and heads off... puzzled by Rufus' behavior

<Sanosuke> The club had its usal crowd.... but Lina was having  a hard time attracting anyone.... it was starting to look like a bad night.

<Phoenix> "Im dead Im dead Im dead...."  Lina is practically whimpering to herself

<Sanosuke> "How are you dead?" a soft voice asked.

<Phoenix> Lina jumps... quite startled  

<Sanosuke> That man with long silver hair was watching her, smiling slightly.

<Phoenix> Lina blinks....  "Im dead... cos I cant find work... and .... my boss is already pissed at me...."

<Sanosuke> "You're a hooker are you?"

<Phoenix> She nods slowly

<Sanosuke> "I see... such a fragile young girl gets swayed by powerful people to sell her body for a price..." He mussed.

<Phoenix> "Way its always been.... way it will always be..."

<Sanosuke> "Tell me... fragile young girl.. how were your lurred into such a world?"

<Phoenix> "I... dont really know myself.... I ran away from home.... and here I am...."

<Sanosuke> "A sad tale I've heard many a time... and you think home is worse then this?"

<Phoenix> "no... but... I cant go back"

<Sanosuke> "And why not?"

<Phoenix> "Im... sure he'd.... send someone after me...."

<Sanosuke> "Your boss?"

<Phoenix> Lina nods

<Sanosuke> "So your boss is a fiend who calls you his slave then?"

<Phoenix> "prettymuch...."

<Phoenix> Lina bites her tongue.... realizing this guy might work for her boss

<Sanosuke> The man chuckled softly. "So many of them are like that girl..."

<Phoenix> "Nothing I can do though.... and the world isnt changing

<Sanosuke> "So you are powerless then?"

<Phoenix> She nods

<Sanosuke> "Then just do what you do... Why not go sit at the bar and grin at ever man you see.. you're sure to make money tonight then..." And he walked off.

<Phoenix> Lina sighs and sits at the bar..... wondering IF she can still smile

 

<Sanosuke> Meanwhile... sephiroth had slid into Cloud's booth.

<Sanosuke> "Hello lovely..." Sephiroth said to him.

<Phoenix> "Oh.... hello.... you here every night?"

<Sanosuke> "Mostly. Having fun on your own over here?"

<Phoenix> "Not really... just thinking to myself though"

<Sanosuke> "About what?"

<Phoenix> "Nothin much really... just my friend"

<Sanosuke> "Something wrong with a friend of yours and you're trying to figure out how to help?"

<Phoenix> "He's just been really distant the last couple of days....:

<Sanosuke> "Have any idea why?"

<Phoenix> "Im not really sure..."

<Phoenix> "Maybe its work.... maybe its me....."

<Sanosuke> "What about you?"

<Phoenix> 'I dunno... he doesnt let me get cute with him anymore...."

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs and fiddles with a straw

<Sanosuke> "Cute eh? What sort of cute? You want him, do you?"

<Phoenix> "N.... no I .... well I dont know..."

<Phoenix> "Usually he smiles when I do stuff.... but lately...."

<Sanosuke> "Compition?" Sephiroth grinned, leaning on the table toward Cloud.

<Phoenix> "Ehh?"

<Sanosuke> The silver haired man grinned, making it clear that he desired Cloud.

<Phoenix> Cloud swallows.... not sure what to say 

<Sanosuke> "Got any plans tonight?" Sephiroth asked him.

<Phoenix> "Well.... not really... not after I leave the club...'

<Sanosuke> "How about dinner?"

<Phoenix> "where at?"

<Sanosuke> "What do you like to eat?"

<Phoenix> "Just about anything"

<Sanosuke> "Lots or little?"

<Phoenix> "Um.... whatever?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth chuckled. "A tough cookie I see. This promises to be a fun night."

<Phoenix> "No Im not picky at all...  anything you wanna eat I will eat.... unless your a cannibal...."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth chuckled. "Don't worry, I'm not a cannibal.. I don't eat people that way."

<Phoenix> "Ohh.... umm...."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth chuckled. "You're nervous, I can tell."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods sheepishly

<Sanosuke> "It's ok. I'm being a little forward.. especially when you probably have a crush on that friend of yours,"

<Phoenix> "No... no he's..... just a friend...."

<Sanosuke> "I see. He's cute isn't he?"

<Phoenix> "well.... yeah but...."

<Sanosuke> "But?"

<Phoenix> "He's more like.... a brother to me..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled. "Ah, so I do still have a chance with you, eh?"

<Phoenix> "Of course!"  Cloud says.... trying not to sound too eager

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth placed his hand on Cloud's head and started to stroke the spikes.

<Phoenix> Cloud closes his eyes and sighs contently

<Sanosuke> "You are quite pretty..." Seph whispered, stroking Cloud's hair.

<Phoenix> "youre... probably the only person that thinks... that"

<Sanosuke> "I can't be... there must be others."

<Phoenix> "Never really ... anyone thats not forced me..... anyway"

<Sanosuke> "Forced you?"

<Phoenix> "I got taken advantage of once.... when I was drunk"

<Sanosuke> "I see.... do you remember what happend?"

<Phoenix> "a little..."

<Sanosuke> "Were you hurt bad?"

<Phoenix> “Just a few.... cuts”

<Sanosuke> "And the emotional scars?"

<Phoenix> "I... dont like to talk about it"

<Sanosuke> "Ah, once again I push in the wrong place. Forgive me."

<Phoenix> "Its okay...."

<Sanosuke> "Are you free tomorrow night?"

<Phoenix> "Well.... I dont know"

<Sanosuke> "Hmm, any other time this week?"

<Phoenix> "Possibly the weekend.....  I do have late evenings off.... after 8... but.... I usually have to get to bed"

<Sanosuke> "Alright. What's a good time for you?"

<Phoenix> "mmm.... well I do get sundays off"

<Phoenix> "Hmm... well... weekdays I couldnt do anything until 9.... days off.... anytime"

<Sanosuke> "What time would you like us to meet here?"

<Phoenix> "Well.... thats up to you I guess.....  I gave you my available times"

<Sanosuke> "Morning, afternoon, or evning?"

<Phoenix> “Evenings are best”

<Sanosuke> "Then how about 6 pm here?"

<Phoenix> "Alright"

<Sanosuke> "I look forward to it. Please don't stand me up... I have had that happen in the past."

<Phoenix> "I wont...."

<Sanosuke> "Thank you." Sephiroth rose and smiled at Cloud.

<Phoenix> "Leaving then?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes, I sense I'm interferring with your job at the momment and I have things to do myself."

<Phoenix> "Oh....  alright...."

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns.... wondering if the guy's figured out he's on a stakeout

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth blew him a kiss before walking off into the crowd of people.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs

<Phoenix> "damn...."

<Phoenix> "Did he have to play with my hair?"

<Sanosuke> He saw Reno over at the bar again as he scanned around.

<Phoenix> Cloud shudders

<Sanosuke> Reno seemed to be looking at him from the bar.... scowling.

<Phoenix> "Oh man.... "  Cloud mumbles... an fingers the cel phone in his pocket

<Sanosuke> Reno shook his head at Cloud and turned back to his drink.

<Phoenix> Cloud relaxes a little and sighs.... then calls over a waitress for some snacks

<Sanosuke> The waitress took his order and hurried off.

<Phoenix> Cloud watches Reno.... and wonders if he did it.... since he was seen talking to the guy that died

<Sanosuke> Reno was right there, and even though Rufus didn't get any info out of him, perhaps he could...

<Phoenix> Cloud gets up and moves to the bar while waiting for his order.... sitting down Reno's end

<Sanosuke> Reno turned his head toward him. "What yah want?"

<Phoenix> "Wanna ask some questions"

<Sanosuke> "About what?" Reno finished his drink before turning fully to Cloud.

<Phoenix> "The guy that died last night

<Sanosuke> "I got nothing more to say..."

<Phoenix> "What'll it take you to say more?'

<Sanosuke> Reno smirked. "You know what..."

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs  "you sure tehres nothin else/"

<Sanosuke> Reno chuckled. "Nothing else that will make me talk..."

<Phoenix> "Fine.... you gotta give me at least some of the info first... though"

<Sanosuke> "Then we're talking elsewhere pretty boy..."

<Phoenix> "alright.... where at?"

<Sanosuke> "My place... I'll drive you there."

<Phoenix> "alright..."

<Sanosuke> "Good. Let's get going."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods and stands... 

<Sanosuke> Reno lead him out to his sports car and climbed in.

<Phoenix> Cloud gets in as well.... and wonders if he should page Rufus

<Sanosuke> Reno took off in the car, driving down the road towards his appartment.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs....

<Phoenix> "No rough this time"

<Sanosuke> "You're not gonna struggle, are you?"

<Phoenix> "No... 

<Sanosuke> "Then no rough..." Reno parked in the garage of the building and opened the door for Cloud.

<Phoenix> Cloud gets out and notes he is trembling slightly

<Sanosuke> They headed into Reno's large appartment, which showed just how much money this guy made.... probably from drug selling or something.

<Phoenix> Cloud looks around.... and wonders for only a moment why  he stays on the straight and narrow

<Sanosuke> reno sat down on the large and comfy black leather couch. "Now, what was your questions?"

<Phoenix> "What do you know about the man that died?"

<Sanosuke> "Irvine? He liked coming in and buying the girls from the man in back... he treated some of the roughly..."

<Phoenix> "Any of them have a motive for vengeance of any sort?"

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps... but I never paid attention to his regular girls. Girls don't interest me at all."

<Phoenix> "See him leave with anyone?"

<Sanosuke> "Nope. After we talked he walked out of the club."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods "Know anything about the girl he was with that night?"

<Sanosuke> "The new girl? Lina?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah... thats her name?"

<Sanosuke> "Yep. she was whinning at the bar all night."

<Phoenix> "Ahh.... how about her boss?"

<Sanosuke> "I will not say his name.... but he was not pleased that Irvine didn't pay Lina the other night...."

<Phoenix> "would he have killed Irvine for that?"

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps..." Reno grinned and pulled Cloud into his lap, "but ask me the rest after I'm paid..."

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs "fine...."

<Sanosuke> "Get yer clothes off then."

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns and strips slowly.... the phone he was carrying slipping out of his pocket as he does so

<Sanosuke> Reno knocked it away subtily and pulled off his own clothing, pressing Cloud down against the soft leather.

<Phoenix> "promise.... no more scars?"

<Sanosuke> "I promise..." Reno's breath smelled of liquer as he leaned down and kissed Cloud.

<Phoenix> Cloud squirms slighty... not liking the way Reno tastes

<Sanosuke> Reno was fully naked on top of him, pressing him against the couch.

<Phoenix> Cloud isnt sure what to do... and he doesnt really want to touch Reno

<Sanosuke> Reno didn't seem to care about anything put pulling Cloud's legs open and rubbing up in between them.

<Phoenix> Cloud whimpers softly when he feels Reno rub against him.... not at all wanting this

<Sanosuke> He tasted that mouth again unwantingly as hands held him down.... though not quiet as roughly as the last time.

<Phoenix> ~oh please let him be quick~

<Sanosuke> Reno at least had the good sense to use oil this time and slicked himself up.

<Phoenix> Cloud squeezes his eyes shut.... not at all happy

<Sanosuke> He felt his legs being lifted up so that Reno could angle and plunge into him without any trouble.

<Phoenix> Cloud tenses... even though he knows its best to be relaxed

<Sanosuke> He felt him enter, and for a momment he got a flash back of when this happened before.... though back then it hurt more.

<Phoenix> "no...."  cloud whimpers

<Sanosuke> Reno didn't seem to be paying any attention as he startd to thrust into him,

<Phoenix> Cloud struggles slightly against the pain

<Sanosuke> Reno held him down, much as he had before, still thrusting.

<Phoenix> ~please no.....~

<Sanosuke> The red-haired man's breath hit against Cloud's face some more, hot...

<Phoenix> "Oh gods.... no....."  Cloud whimpers and begins to struggle..... his flashback taking over reason

<Sanosuke> back then Reno had held him face down, rather in a twisted and uncomfortable possition as he repeditdly slammed in and out of him... over and over until he'd finnaly orgasmed.

<Phoenix> "stooooop.. please!"

<Sanosuke> "Hush..." Reno told him.

<Phoenix> "please.... please... I cant...."

<Sanosuke> "Hush..." Reno ordered again, still thrusting./

<Phoenix> "Pleeease..... stop.....  "  cloud whimpers, looking very pale now

<Sanosuke> He felt Reno orgasm inside of him and hear the man grunting in pleasure.

Cloud whimpers and tries to curl up

<Sanosuke> Reno gripped his sides as he pulled out. "Where you trying to go now?" He asked.

<Phoenix> "thats all... no more... please..."

<Sanosuke> "Well, I got what I wanted. Oh, and you didn't hear this from me.. but the guy in the back is named Xellos..."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods ...."a.... alright"

<Sanosuke> "Good. You can leave now if you don't want any more."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods and picks up his clothing... pulling it on slowly

<Sanosuke> Reno didn't bother getting dressed again as he strolled over to his own mini bar.

<Phoenix> Cloud picks up his phone and looks at it

<Sanosuke> Reno didn't even seem to notice him any more.... even pulling out a case of something that was probably drugs of some kind.

<Phoenix> Cloud dials Rufus' number after dressing.... and leaves Reno's apartment

<Sanosuke> "Rufus here." The voice on the other end answered.

<Phoenix> "Rufus.... could... you come pick me up?"

<Sanosuke> "Where you at?"

<Phoenix> Cloud looks up at a street sign "Umm... Elm and 6th"

<Sanosuke> "But that's......" There was a long pause, "I'll be right there...."

<Phoenix> "thanks...."

<Sanosuke> Soon Rufus's car pulled up and he got out, looking Cloud quickly over. "Did that bastard hurt you?"

<Phoenix> "no... Im okay... just take me home... okay?"

<Sanosuke> "Alright. Hop in." Rufus got back in the car.

<Phoenix> Cloud slips into the car... wincing slightly

<Sanosuke> Rufus scowled slightly and drove off.

 

<Sanosuke> The next day....

<Phoenix> Cloud stares listlessly at his coffee cup

<Sanosuke> Rufus came in, shaking his head. "Cloud... there's been another one..."

<Phoenix> "Oh.... "

<Sanosuke> "Come on... This time it was a drug dealer named Edgar.... don't know the conection other then the mo."

<Phoenix> "Alright...."

<Phoenix> Cloud drops his coffee cup into the trash can and stands

<Sanosuke> Rufus walked down to the morgue area and took out a cigarette.

<Phoenix> Cloud pulls back the coverlet on the body

<Phoenix> "Ugh..... nice work whoever it is..."

<Sanosuke> "Yeah.. same patteren of slash marks... practicly gutted the poor bastard."

<Phoenix> "I have a suspect...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus took out a camera and started taking pictures of the body.

<Sanosuke> "Do you?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... the guy that runs the brothel at our club.... Least he fits the first one.... “

<Sanosuke> "Sounds like a lead.... he might have ordered a hit." Rufus continued snapping pictures as anotehr officer came down the steps.

<Phoenix> "We'll have to see if this guy liked the girlies...."

<Sanosuke> "Detectives.." the officer greated, "We picked up a kid that was using the dead man's credit card... we'd like one of you to question him."

<Phoenix> "I got him Ruf..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus barely looked at the officer. "Thanks Cloud... I'll finish up down here."

<Sanosuke> The man lead Cloud up to the holding cells.

<Phoenix> "lead on...'   Cloud says to the officer

<Sanosuke> He was lead to a cell where a kid, around 18 years old, was loungin around.

<Phoenix> "This the one?"

<Sanosuke> The officer nodded. "Yep. Have fun."

<Sanosuke> The kid looked up at Cloud and grinned. "Hey, can you get me a smoke?"

<Phoenix> "Bad for your health kid..."

<Sanosuke> "So what? You got one or not?"

<Phoenix> "Sorry... my partner does all the smoking"

<Sanosuke> "Then go steal one from him and gimme."

<Phoenix> "Alright..."

<Sanosuke> The kid stood up in the cell and walked to the bars.

<Phoenix> "You just stay right there..."  Cloud says with a small smirk.... and heads back to the morgue

<Sanosuke> Rufus was still puffing away and snapping pictures... Cloud had never seen him smoking this much before, must have been the stress.,

<Phoenix> Cloud slips over and skillfully lifts his cigarettes out of his pocket

<Sanosuke> Rufus didn't even notice as he studied the body.

<Phoenix> Cloud heads back for the holding cells and holds out the cigarettes to the kid.... along with the lighter thats tucked into the pack

<Sanosuke> The blonde boy took it and lit up, puffing with a sigh. "Thanks. Now that that's taken care of, what yah gonna ask me?"

<Phoenix> "Whered ya get the credit card?"

<Sanosuke> "Found it in a wallet left laying on the street this morning..."

<Phoenix> "Ahh... where at?"

<Sanosuke> "I'm not sure... I was drunk at the time."

<Phoenix> "Ohh... well.... you know the guy who that card belongs to was murdered last night"

<Sanosuke> "Really? Too bad for him. I bet you think I did it then eh?"

<Phoenix> "Well you are a suspect now”

<Sanosuke> "What then? It's not like I did anything to the guy."

<Phoenix> "Well.... it is a little suspicious when a dead man turns up.... and a few hours later someone is having a party with thier credit card

<Sanosuke> "Not like he was gonna need it any more, right?"

<Sanosuke> The boy puffed on the cigarette and leaned on the bunk.

<Phoenix> "Right... did you know the guy at all?

<Sanosuke> "Since I don't know who died how can I say?"

<Phoenix> "surely you saw the name on the credit card?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah but it's not one I knew.... besides, I know a lot of guys that never tell me their names." He grinned in a way that made Cloud figure it was in a way he'd not want to be known himself.

<Phoenix> Cloud goes over to a table and brings back a picture of the man who was killed "This help any?

<Sanosuke> "Yeah, I've seen him before... ran all sorts of drugs and had girls all over him...."

<Phoenix> "Hookers?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah, mostly.... and some just flocking to him cause of his looks."

<Phoenix> "He deal with a guy named Xellos?"

The boy got all silent at the mention of that name.

<Phoenix>  "Gonna answer?"

<Sanosuke> The boy still said nothing, his face paling slightly.

<Phoenix> "This guy that bad huh?

<Sanosuke> "I'm not talking..." The boy said bluntly, his whole additude changed.

<Phoenix> "Okay... then you can stay in here"

<Sanosuke> The boy puffed on his cigarette, not even looking at Cloud now.

<Sanosuke> It was almost as if he was afraid.

<Phoenix> "Useless... "  Cloud mutters to himself..."only way to find out is to go there myself"

<Sanosuke> He might as well return to Rufus down in the morge.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs and heads back down into the morgue

<Sanosuke> Rufus was done taking pictures and was just studing the marks. His back was to Cloud and for some reason the look of Rufus's hair matched what Cloud had just seen in the cell.

<Phoenix> Cloud walks over to Rufus and pinches him

<Sanosuke> Rufus wirled. "Hey, why'd you pinch me?"

<Phoenix> "Cos.... you need to loosen up...."

<Sanosuke> "Hmph. Well, I think I learned all there is to know here. What about you?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... "

<Sanosuke> "I mean, did you learn anything?"

<Phoenix> "Nope... well.... a little... maybe....  but this Xellos guy ... everyone is afraid of him"

<Sanosuke> "Xellos?"

<Phoenix> "Guy who runs the brothel at our club.... I wanna talk to him...."

<Sanosuke> "Cloud...." Rufus sighed, "Be careful... my face is already known there..."

<Phoenix> "What .... I can take care of myself..."

<Sanosuke> "Yeah.... alright. I'll go talk to that witness now that you're done... good luck ok?"

<Phoenix> "Did you get that girl's name?  Im gonna try to use her to get in...."

<Sanosuke> "No, I didn't... besides, using her again might lead to trouble." Rufus walked off to get cleaned up,.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs "Looks like its a night at the club again"

<Sanosuke> He left before Rufus got out of the bathroom. The club was a little down since it was only the middle of the day, but a few people were around. At least Reno was not one of them.

<Phoenix> Cloud heads for the back room.... feeling a little bold

<Sanosuke> The bouncer was asleep at his post and Cloud could see the girls doing different things.... and as he looked he saw a two guys as well who also seemed to be hookers.

<Phoenix> "Wow.... thats kinda new..."  Cloud muses to himself

<Sanosuke> "Can I help you?" One of the girls asked, brushing a lock of her green hair aside.

<Phoenix> "Yeah... I wanna talk to your boss"

<Sanosuke> She blinked. "What for?"

<Phoenix> "Wanna ask him some questions...'

<Sanosuke> "WHAT?" She gave him a rather shocked look.

<Phoenix> "Im serious..... "

<Sanosuke> She bit her lip and scurred off to the back room office.

<Phoenix> Cloud boredly picks lint off of his jacket

<Sanosuke> She came back and waved Cloud into the back room.

<Phoenix> "Thanks"  Cloud says... and tries to keep calm as he heads into the back room

<Sanosuke> She left and closed the door once he was inside. The room looked expensive... all the fancy furniture and all looked to have cost a bundle. There was a man with his back to Cloud over by the desk.

<Phoenix> "Nice...."  Cloud says quietly .... still wondering why he has to be the "good guy" and get to live in a barely furnished apartment

<Sanosuke> The man turned to him. He was dressed in a black suit and looked to be very neat about it. His eyes sparkled like ametheste and his hair was very dark, but purple in its tint. "I heard you wanted to speak to me?" 

<Sanosuke> he asked, sounding unconcerned at all.

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... just wanted to know if you knew anything about the two regulars who have died recently"

<Sanosuke> "Ah, you're a detective I take it?" He smiled as if he wasn't bothered at all.

<Phoenix> Cloud nods in affirmation "Im not here to bust you tho.... you keep my favorite club going pretty much"

<Sanosuke> The man chuckled. "Very good. Yes, I do run the club."

<Phoenix> "Anyway... Im sure you dont like it that someone is picking off customers...."

<Sanosuke> "Doesn't mater when they didn't pay... but it's not like I had them killed or anything, that's not my busness."

<Phoenix> "I figured that.... but do you have any ideas on who it could be?"

<Sanosuke> "Nope, not a clue." He smiled sweetly.

<Phoenix> "Well I guess this was a waste of both of our time then.... huh?"

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps and perhaps not. Why don't you sit down."

<Phoenix> Cloud settles down in a chair  "okay"

<Sanosuke> Xellos sat down as well. "I'm sure we can come to some agreement here...."

<Phoenix> "What sort?"

<Sanosuke> "I see you admiring my office.... I'm sure something has to interest you...."

<Phoenix> "Oh no... taking bribes is bad... "

<Sanosuke> "Is it? What a pity.... you must not have much on your police salary, do you?"

<Phoenix> "Nope.... but I enjoy the challenge"

<Sanosuke> "I see... then if you're sure about that then we have no further busness to conduct."

<Phoenix> "Sorry bout that.... but ... Im a little gung ho.... just well... i like this place..."

<Sanosuke> "I know... I was once like you a long time ago...."

<Phoenix> "It kinda irks me..... youre "bad" yet you got all this neat stuff..... '

<Sanosuke> "Bad is in the eye of the beholder... tell me, why am I so bad?"

<Phoenix> "Well everyone is scared to death of you for some reason..."

<Phoenix> "you dont look scary...  you must weild something that frightens them:

<Sanosuke> "Because I used to be a priest.... that's what scares them." He smiled again.

<Phoenix> "Oh?"

<Sanosuke> "It's true."

<Phoenix> "My partner said that girl he talked to was dead afraid...."

<Sanosuke> "Oh Lina? She's just new..."

<Phoenix> "How'd you manage to aquire her?"

<Sanosuke> "Poor girl was lost on the streets... probably would have starved to death. I gave her a place to live and a job, is that really so terrible of me?"

<Phoenix> "No... not really"

<Sanosuke> "Good. Now why don't you run along home or something?"

<Phoenix> "Sure...."  Cloud says and shrugs

<Sanosuke> Xellos waved him out.

<Phoenix> Cloud heads back for the station

<Sanosuke> He wasn't even in the door when he heard Rufus shouting at someone.

<Phoenix> "Man... Rufus is pissy..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus was still shouting saying "Just cause you're my father doesn't mean you can boss me around!!"

<Phoenix> Cloud winces "Family problems...."

<Sanosuke> He could see Rufus now, waving his arms about as he stood before a man in his 50s.

<Sanosuke> "I said no..." Rufus growled.

<Phoenix> Cloud watches quietly

<Sanosuke> Rufus folded his arms and glared at the old man.

<Sanosuke> "Yeah come on, let me out!" Came a voice from down in the holding cells that they were standing near.

<Phoenix> "Let him out Rufus...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus growled. "It's not even in my authority to let him out.... besides, he's much safer in there and is probably sober for once..."

<Phoenix> "Rufus.... you have to let him out..."

<Sanosuke> "Then talk to the goddamn cheif!" Rufus turned and nearly plowed into Cloud. "Oh, Cloud, you're back."

<Phoenix> "Yeah... Im back

<Sanosuke> "Come on, I need to get out of here before this argument gets worse." Rufus walked out of the holding cell area and into the confrince room.

<Phoenix> "I talked to the Xellos guy.... he seemed pretty nice"

<Sanosuke> "He seemed nice? In what way?" Rufus sat down with some coffee.

<Phoenix> "Well... offered me something as a bribe... Rufus... would you care if I went bad?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed. "Yes, I would. I already failed someone once.... I don't want it to happen again."

<Phoenix> "But he had such nice stuff...."

<Sanosuke> "Please.... Cloud..." Rufus sighed again and started to light up.

<Phoenix> "Look at my apartment Rufus..."

<Sanosuke> "I know..." Rufus puffed hard on his cigarette, figiting in his seat.

<Phoenix> "man... I walk the straight and narrow .... and I have nothin...."

<Sanosuke> "And what happens when you fall off Cloud? Didn't you see any of it?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... but..."

<Sanosuke> "You can sink all the way to the bottom..." then he added softly, "like my brother..."

<Phoenix> "we're already at the bottom though...."

<Sanosuke> "No, we're not...."

<Phoenix> "yes.... we are"

<Sanosuke> "It can get much worse and you've seen it..."

<Phoenix> "Yeah.... I know"

<Sanosuke> "Don't fall... please don't..." Rufus was puffing harder on his cig, the ashes collecting on the table.

<Phoenix> "Rufus.... why do you care?'

<Sanosuke> "You saw my brother.... that's why."

<Phoenix> "oh..."

<Phoenix> "I have a date on sunday"

<Sanosuke> "Good for you." rufus got up and walked off, seeming to want to be alone.

<Phoenix> Cloud sigh

<Phoenix> "Figured you wouldnt care...."  Cloud says with a sigh

<Sanosuke> Back in the holding cells Rufus's brother was finnaly being reliesed.

<Phoenix> Cloud wanders to his office to do paperwork... and file some reports 

<Sanosuke> Rufus didn't join him, perhaps he had a lot to think about.

<Sanosuke> When sunday came around it was almost a nervous day.

<Phoenix> Cloud plays with his hair nervously.... "Ohh man...."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth would be waiting for him at the club tonight, waiting to take him to dinner.

<Phoenix> "What should I wear?'

<Sanosuke> He had some nice clothing in the back of his closet, stuff he didn;t get to wear often. Perhaps one of those sets would be good.

<Phoenix> "Oh geez... sexy or formal?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was so cute.... it as hard to belive that people had stood him up as he said.

<Phoenix> "Ohh Im going with sexy"

<Sanosuke> It was a nice outfit.... he hoped Sephiroth would like it.

<Phoenix> "yeah ... he said I was cute...:

<Phoenix> "I hope this impresses him a little..."

<Sanosuke> It was time... he wanted to get down there and see him.

<Phoenix> "alright... "  Cloud says taking a deep breath

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was waiting for him before the club and smiled at his approuch.

<Phoenix> "hey..."

<Sanosuke> "You came." Sephiroth smiled.

<Phoenix> "Of course... couldnt pass you up"

<Sanosuke> "How very good. You ready?"

<Phoenix> "Yep"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth put out his arm. "Let's go then."

<Phoenix> Cloud takes Sephiroth's arm and smiles

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth walked with him down the street to a rather nice resturant.

<Phoenix> "hey wow..."

<Sanosuke> "My treat." Sephiroth told him, getting them a nice corner booth.,

<Phoenix> "This is a nice place.... you sure?"

<Sanosuke> "I'm quite sure."

<Phoenix> "Okay... just wanted to make sure.... "

<Phoenix> Cloud blushes slightly

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth grinned and looked over the menu.

<Phoenix> Cloud peruses the menu as well.... wondering if he should splurge or be cheap

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth ordered a bottle of wine before any food.

<Phoenix> ~oh man.... this is almost too .... much~  Cloud thinks to himself

<Sanosuke> "Come to a choice on food?" Sephiroth asked him, opening the bottle of red wine.

<Phoenix> "well.. Im not sure...."

<Sanosuke> "See anything on the menu that looks good?"

<Phoenix> ~Do I want to be a glutton... or frugal????~

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth sipped his wine. "Want a glass?"

<Phoenix> "Sure"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took Cloud's wine glass and poured him some.

<Phoenix> Cloud sniffs it and takes a sip.... "mmm..."

<Sanosuke> "Tis good, is it not?"

<Phoenix> "Yes... whats the vintage?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth pushed the bottle over to him, "Have a look for yourself."

<Phoenix> "Whoa... this... has got to be expensive!"

<Sanosuke> "It's one of my favorates... it's nice to share."

"I... I shouldnt really... the ....w ay way Ive been acting... its just... like I only want your body... but.... thats not..."

<Sanosuke> "Do not worry about that just now. The body is for starters, it lets you get close.. then the rest follows."

<Phoenix> "But its not right...."

<Sanosuke> "How come?"

<Phoenix> "I.... its alright... Im just overreacting"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah. And you're nervous too, I can tell."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods "I rarely get to go on dates....  "

<Sanosuke> "Same here..."

<Phoenix> "Why.... youre... gorgeous"

<Sanosuke> "That makes people get to nervous to go out with me. I'm too good looking for most."

<Phoenix> "Thats ... really hard to believe

<Sanosuke> "No, think about it. People get intimidated."

<Phoenix> "True... I was a little at first"

<Sanosuke> "Exactly."

<Phoenix> "But you seem like a really nice guy"

<Sanosuke> "I suppose i am when I'm in the right setting."

<Phoenix> "What sort of work do you do?"

<Sanosuke> "All sorts of things.... I'm between jobs right now though, but I've always had money. And you?"

<Phoenix> "Well... Im a detective... in Homicide..."

<Sanosuke> "Ah, I figured as much... you have that baring."

<Phoenix> "I spend a lot of time with dead people...."

<Sanosuke> "Anything interesting?"

<Phoenix> "Working on a case right now..."

<Sanosuke> "Probably can't talk about It I bet."

<Phoenix> "Well... I guess Im not supposed to... but you frequent the club...."

<Sanosuke> "These days I do... I used to go around all the clubs.. but ever since I saw you..."

<Phoenix> "You mean it was an instant attraction for you?"

<Sanosuke> "You could say that. You captured my interest."

<Phoenix> "Well... at least someone is interested in me..."

<Sanosuke> "I'm surprised I'm the only one Cloud..."

<Phoenix> "Well. I used to think Rufus was...

<Sanosuke> "How come?"

<Phoenix> "He seems so uptight lately... I think he's angry with me..."

<Sanosuke> "Why does he?"

<Phoenix> "I guess its the case...."

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps so. He's probably got lots of stress."

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs and sips at his wine

<Sanosuke> "Ready to order?" The waiter asks.

<Phoenix> Cloud nods 

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth ordered some sort of roasted meat on sticks platter.

<Phoenix> Cloud goes for some seafood platter..... not remembering the last time he had time to cook that sort of thing

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled at Cloud and leaned back in the booth.

<Phoenix> "Man .... this is much better than sitting at home..."  Cloud practically purrs... the wine getting to him a little

<Sanosuke> "I'm glad I could bring a bright spot into your life dear Cloud."

<Phoenix> "I need more of those.... you know..... weekends usually just consist of me getting drunk"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth chuckled. "I see. Well, that's something to do.. but I'll hope to entertain you on the weekends."

<Phoenix> "Oh please do... getting drunk has lost its joy..."

<Sanosuke> "That's good to know. Drunk isn't all good."

<Phoenix> "No.....  I used to always hope that one day I'd wake up curled next to Rufus.... but I guess he isnt that type"

<Sanosuke> "Really?"

<Phoenix> “I never could though... he was my partner...."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded. "You ever ask him?"

<Phoenix> "I couldnt... he's... more like a brother... it'd be weird"

<Sanosuke> "I see. As I said before, that's good for me since he's not compition then."

<Phoenix> "Why... do you kill the competition?"  Cloud asks jokingly

<Sanosuke> "Nope. Just don't like to have them around."

<Phoenix> "Ahh... well he's not competition..."

<Sanosuke> "Good."

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs "I think Im gonna transfer in my work..."

<Sanosuke> "Work another department?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah... Rufus.... just doesnt seem partnery anymore"

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps that is for the best." 

<Sanosuke> Their food arivided.

<Phoenix> "mmmm....."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took up a stick and started eating from it.

<Phoenix> Cloud digs in.... but tries to not look too much of a glutton

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled at him though and went on eating.

<Phoenix> "Mmmmft...  havent eaten this well in a while...."

<Sanosuke> "What have you eaten?"

<Phoenix> "well I dont cook to well..."

<Sanosuke> "I cook well. Perhaps I should cook for you some time."

<Phoenix> "That'd be great!"  Cloud says.... barely able to hide his enthusiasm

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled, still eating.

<Phoenix> "Anything you wan to know about me?"

<Sanosuke> "Not sure.. what do you wish to tell me?"

<Phoenix> "Anything you wanna know"

<Sanosuke> "Favorate color.”

<Phoenix> "Turquoise"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled. "REally?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah"

<Sanosuke> That was the basic color of Sephiroth's eyes as they flashed at Cloud./

<Phoenix> "And not just because of your eyes..."

<Sanosuke> "What's your favorate food?"

<Phoenix> "I really dont have a favorite... but I do have a weakness for Teriyaki"

<Sanosuke> "What about book prefrance?"

<Phoenix> "just about anything I can get my paws on.... aside from mysteries..."

<Sanosuke> "You don't like mysteries?"

<Phoenix> "I live a mystery..."

<Sanosuke> "How true." Sephiroth smiled.

<Phoenix> Cloud smiles "And a lot of the books that are about that are a bunch of hooey"

<Sanosuke> "Really? Like what?"

<Phoenix> "Lives of Detectives are in no way glamorous...."

<Sanosuke> "Like they have them in the books you mean?"

<Phoenix> "Yah... my apartment is barely furnished..."

<Sanosuke> "So you really don’t like your job?"

<Phoenix> "Ive seen some people who have better stuff than I do... and they are against the law...."

<Sanosuke> "So that makes you wish to join them?"

<Phoenix> "yeah"

<Sanosuke> "So what's stopping you?"

<Phoenix> "Rufus...."

<Phoenix> "But...."

<Sanosuke> "But?"

<Phoenix> "He doesnt care... does he....."

<Sanosuke> "He what?"

<Phoenix> "Rufus.... he doesnt care....

<Sanosuke> "Then why stay?"

<Phoenix> "Where does one start?"

<Sanosuke> "That is something you have to ask yourself."

<Phoenix> "Guess I can always go visit Xellos... again"

<Sanosuke> "Xellos?" Sephiroth pursed his lips.

<Phoenix> "Yeh.... why?"

<Sanosuke> "Who... is that?" Sephiroth asked slowly.

<Phoenix> "Gut that runs the brothel in the club I frequent"

<Sanosuke> "I see." Sephiroth nodded slowly.

<Phoenix> "He's kinda .... nice for a bad guy.. tho he sorta treated me condecendingly"

<Sanosuke> "What's your definition of bad guy?"

<Phoenix> "Anyone who braeks the law...."

<Sanosuke> "But why is that bad? Some laws are very awful indeed. Did you know some places make it illigle for two guys to have sex?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah....."

<Sanosuke> "Do you consider that bad?"

<Phoenix> "No... the law itself is the bad ting...."

<Sanosuke> "Correct. So how then do you judge good and bad? By your old saying all laws are good and any breaking of them is bad."

<Phoenix> "I...."

<Sanosuke> "So, you must go by your heart rather then the laws."

<Phoenix> "Yeah...."

<Sanosuke> "What does your heart tell you?"

<Phoenix> "I ..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took the check as it got to them and pulled out his credit card.

<Phoenix> "So..."

<Sanosuke> "Yes?"

<Phoenix> "What now?"

<Sanosuke> "Shall I drop you back at home?"

<Phoenix> "yes please"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled, paying for the meal and standing up.

<Phoenix> Cloud stands as well... and moves to Sephiroth's side

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took his arm and headed out. "Which way is home for you?"

<Phoenix> Cloud chuckles "this way" 

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled and escorted him back home.

<Phoenix> "I would invite you in... but its a mess..."

<Sanosuke> "Tis ok. I do not want to push you to far into anything. I'm sure you need your rest. I really hope to see you again though."

<Phoenix> "Sure.... want my number?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded.

<Phoenix> Cloud pulls an old receipt out of his pocket and writes it down for Sephiroth

<Sanosuke> The man smiled and took it from Cloud.

<Phoenix> "You know.... I think I'll put in my resignation tomorrow"

<Sanosuke> "Good for you."

<Phoenix> "I can be a security guard if I cant find anything else"

<Sanosuke> "Just remember, you should always find a new job before you quit the old."

<Phoenix> "Two weeks notice... and I have some money put away in case...."

<Sanosuke> "Alright. I'll call you soon."

<Phoenix> Cloud hugs Sephiroth  

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth hugged back.

 

Monday brought another work day....

<Phoenix>  Cloud humms quietly to himself as he does his paperwork

<Sanosuke> Rufus came in and sat down at the work table, sighing.

<Phoenix> Cloud chirps a good morning to Rufus

<Sanosuke> Rufus smiled slightly. "Morning Cloud," Then brushed the hair from his face and got some coffee.

<Phoenix> Cloud's withdrawal from service form is resting on top of his paperwork pile... pink like most official type documents of that type are

<Sanosuke> Rufus spotted it and frowned deaply. "Cloud?"

<Phoenix> "Mm?"

<Sanosuke> "You're... leaving?" 

<Phoenix> "You dont seem to want to be my partner anymore..."

<Sanosuke> "WHERE DID YOU GET THAT?" Rufus spun to him, shock in his eyes.

<Phoenix> "Youve been giving me the brushoff the last couple days..."  Cloud mumbles..... shrinking in his seat

<Sanosuke> Rufus turned away from him and hung his head. "It's not you Cloud... You're not the reason."

<Phoenix> "Then what is?"

<Sanosuke> "This case... and now my brother really IS involved... and my father... for god sakes...."

<Phoenix> "Guess it wouldnt help to let you know.... why I was leaving...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus leaned his head on the table, pounding it with his fist in despair. Cloud had never seen Rufus so upset in his life.

<Phoenix> "Calm... down Rufus... please?"

<Sanosuke> "Calm down? this case is already causing me to reach my stress limmit... and now you're adding to it by quiting... and you expect me to CALM DOWN????"

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns "What do you want me to do Rufus?"

<Phoenix> Cloud moves over to him and puts a hand on his back

<Sanosuke> "Don't quit... please... I don't think I'd be able to handle this any more if you just walked away now."

<Phoenix> Cloud hugs him sadly "Im stuck between a rock and a pointy place..'

<Sanosuke> Rufus made a vauge sniffling sound, his head on the table.

<Phoenix> "Why..... are you crying....?"

<Sanosuke> "Cause... I feel like I'm gonna explode..."

<Phoenix> "Its okay...  just calm down...  you need someone Rufus..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus turned around and put his head on Cloud's chest, hugging him tightly.

<Phoenix> Cloud stands there.... blinking 

<Sanosuke> Rufus was shaking, trembling.... all of this caused by stress.

<Phoenix> "Maybe you need a day off...."

<Sanosuke> "Can't... got too much work to do and a killer on the loose."

<Phoenix> "Shh.... I'll take you home... put some food in you and put you to bed...'

<Phoenix> "I'll take care of the work"

<Sanosuke> "So you're not quitting on me?"

<Phoenix> "no.... shh.... He'll understand"

<Sanosuke> "Thanks. God, even my father was telling me I should let someone else handle the case.... he must think I'm under a lot of stress too."

<Phoenix> Cloud feathers his fingers through Rufus' hair 

<Sanosuke> Rufus smiled slightly.

<Phoenix> "c'mon... get your stuff together.... mind you I dont cook to well"

<Sanosuke> "Doesn't mater." Rufus sighed, grabbing his coat.

<Phoenix> "Im gonna go tell the Chief Im taking you home

<Sanosuke> "Alright." Rufus sat in his chair.

<Phoenix> Cloud goes off to the Cheif's office and tells him

<Sanosuke> Rufus was still there when Cloud got back.

<Phoenix> cloud smiles at him "C'mon....

<Sanosuke> Rufus stood up and followed Cloud out.

<Phoenix> Cloud drives Rufus home... wondering what to do with himself

<Sanosuke> Rufus lived in a nice appartment, thanks to his father's wealth.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs "Now I wouldnt mind living like this..."

<Sanosuke> "It's cause my dad's so rich..." Rufus sighed.

<Phoenix> "my apartment is crap compared to this"

<Sanosuke> "I'm sorry..." Rufus frowned.

<Phoenix> "Its okay.... go get dressed for bed... I'll find my way around the kitchen"

<Sanosuke> Rufus's apparment, though large, was rather empty compairidly. He didn't seem to own much at all.

<Phoenix> Cloud shoos Rufus into the bedroom and heads for the kitchen

<Sanosuke> Rufus sat in his bedroom, sighing to himself.

<Phoenix> Cloud scratches together some noodles and broth

<Sanosuke> There was at least that much to be found. Rufus apperently didn't keep much food around the house.

<Phoenix> "Poor guy...."  cloud mutters to himself as he fishes for a tray to put the food on

<Phoenix> "He has even less than I do..... "

<Sanosuke> He just lived in a bigger appartment... and that was cause his dad owned the building.

<Phoenix> Cloud finally finds something suitable and carries the food he prepared in to Rufus

<Sanosuke> Rufus smiled slightly at him, sitting on his bed smoking.

<Phoenix> "You really ought to cut that out Rufus.... it makes stress... high blood pressure and stuff"  Cloud says and takes the cigarette away

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed as his cig was taken. "They say that about everything now adays."

<Phoenix> "C'mon... we gotta find you a boyfriend....or girlfriend... never sure about you"

<Sanosuke> Rufus hmphed. "I got myself, don't I?" He reached for his food.

<Phoenix> "Whats the matter?  You dont want anyone?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed and sucked slowly at the broth. "It's not that..."

<Phoenix> "Then what... youre supposed be open with your partner..."

<Sanosuke> "Open? What sort of open?"

<Phoenix> "C'mon Rufus you know what I mean...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus smiled slightly in amusement. "I suppose I do."

<Phoenix> "tell me whats keepin you from hooking up with someone...?"

<Sanosuke> "I guess cause I keep thinking of my little brother."

<Phoenix> "Why... he have bad relationships?"

<Sanosuke> "No.... he's been on drugs since he was 13... wandering the streets since he was 15... selling himself... was in jail when he was 16...." Rufus shook his head saddly. "I just get too busy thinking about my family to worry about relationships for the most part."

<Phoenix> "you have to think about yourself sometime Rufus...."

<Sanosuke> "I do.... I try to... but I get so busy with work."

<Phoenix> Cloud pats Rufus on the head  "Take a break.... go clubbing.... find yourself a hottie...."

<Sanosuke> "Where's the fun in that?"

<Phoenix> "What do you want Rufus?"

<Sanosuke> "I don't know... I guess that's part of my problem. I don't know what I want."

<Phoenix> "well..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus finished his food and set the bowl aside.

<Sanosuke> "Well?"

<Phoenix> "You really need someone Rufus... want me to set you up?"

<Sanosuke> "Nah, that's ok. I really don't like the idea of being set up."

<Phoenix> "Okay...'

<Sanosuke> "thanks for the food."

<Phoenix> "Youre good looking though.... you could probably have anyone you wanted"

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "Probably."

<Phoenix> "You okay then.?"

<Sanosuke> "I suppose so. Listen, get back and catch this guy... ok?"

<Phoenix> "Okay.... you rest.... sleep.... hear me?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah, I hear yah."

<Phoenix> Cloud pats his head and heads back to the station

<Sanosuke> the station was fairly quiet for the rest of the day... just paper work this and paper work that.

<Phoenix> Cloud crumples the pinkslip and throws it away..... wondering if Sephiroth will mind

<Sanosuke> Of course, as he did so, he remembered Xellos offering him a bribe for some reason.

<Phoenix> "What am I gonna do?"

<Sanosuke> cop instinct.... he felt somehow Xellos and that club were connected to the two deaths...

<Phoenix> "Wonder if I should go stick my nose in there again.... "  Cloud mutters to himself

<Sanosuke> Would probably be for the best... that night at any rate.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs "another night at the club.... hope Xellos doesnt mind me popping in again"

<Sanosuke> The club was packed. Saddly, Sephiroth didn't seem to be there.

<Phoenix> "Oh well... this is business anyway" Cloud tells himself

<Sanosuke> The bouncer to the back room was awake this time.

<Phoenix> Cloud looks at him and frowns

<Sanosuke> The bouncer looked at Cloud and folded his arms.

<Phoenix> "I wanna see Xellos"

<Sanosuke> The bouncer blinked and looked behind him for a momment... then nodded to Cloud, letting him pass.

<Phoenix> Cloud heads for the back room 

<Sanosuke> Xellos was standing there, and turned to him. "Ah, so you returned did you?"

<Phoenix> "yeah... "

<Sanosuke> Xellos seemed to have just been doing something, but smiled anyway. "What for?"

<Phoenix> "Just wonderin what the bribe was for the other day"

<Sanosuke> "Anything you want... just ask dear boy."

<Phoenix> "Youre hiding something.... right?"

<Sanosuke> "What do you mean?"

<Phoenix> "Well what was the bribe for?”

<Sanosuke> "Someone on Vice would understand that one."

<Phoenix> "need any more male hookers?"

<Sanosuke> Xellos raised an eyebrow. "Why are you asking?"

<Phoenix> "Just curious.”

<Sanosuke> "You must have some reason for asking."

<Phoenix> "I wanna be one maybe?"

<Sanosuke> Xellos chuckled. "You don't seem the type."

<Phoenix> "No?  neither does that Lina girl"

<Sanosuke> "She's here cause she has no where else..."

<Phoenix> "And what would you do if she did have somewhere else to go/"

<Sanosuke> "Do? Nothing. She's free to leave if she wants to."

<Phoenix> "Why she so afraid then?"

<Sanosuke> "Probably cause she's got no where to go."

<Phoenix> "Can I have her?"

<Sanosuke> "You want her as a bribe?"

<Phoenix> "Sure...  but whats the bribe for?"

<Sanosuke> "Sore Wa Himitsu Desu." The man grinned.

<Phoenix> "Oh now.... "

<Sanosuke> "You're not going to kill her, now are you?"

<Phoenix> "Your patrons are getting slaughtered and you have no problems.... is this bribe for me to stop investigating?

<Phoenix> "No.... gonna give her to Rufus.... he's got a big empty apartment..."

<Sanosuke> "I see... well, why not take it as that. I will not be pleased if you go back on your word though."

<Phoenix> "What is my word though? What do I have to not do.... for this bribe.”

<Sanosuke> "You already told me what you would take it for... stop investigating. That's fine with me."

<Phoenix> "so you want me to stop investigating then?"

<Sanosuke> "Go right ahead. The more it gets inestigated the more I risk getting busted by vice... "

<Phoenix> "Ohh... I see...'

<Phoenix> "I just wanna make sure no one else gets killed"

<Sanosuke> "I'm already making my own arrangments on that end.... just keep this investigation away from me."

<Phoenix> "So you will stop the killings.... and I will stop the investigation... and we will all be happy?'

<Sanosuke> "I'm not behind the killings... I will just take greater messures that they do not affect my people.... and perhaps that way will wind over to take care of the killer."

<Phoenix> "Yeah but I want them to stop against anyone.... youre gonna get the killer most likely?"

<Sanosuke> "In the underground we take care of murders.... if they are murderers that is. I can only tell you that it will no longer affect my busness...."

<Phoenix> "I guess thats good enough.... now I I break the deal.... what happens?"

<Sanosuke> "Sore Wa Himitsu Desu...." HE grinned again.

<Phoenix> Cloud sighs "alright.... its a deal... I hope Rufus likes his little pet..."

<Sanosuke> "Good man. Just remember, she's not a slave LINA! GET IN HERE!"

<Phoenix> Lina appears at the door "Yes sir?  she says timidly

<Sanosuke> "Go with this gentleman..."

<Phoenix> "for how long sir?"

<Sanosuke> "However long he wants..."

<Phoenix> ".....  however long?"

<Sanosuke> Xellos nodded. "He wants you to live with that man you met the other day.. the cop."

<Phoenix> "But...  I....?"

<Sanosuke> Xellos waved his hand at her. "Just go."

<Phoenix> "C'mon.... he wont eat you... I dont even think he likes girls...."  Cloud says and stands up

<Sanosuke> Rufus was asleep by the time Cloud got back to his appartment with Lina.

<Phoenix> Cloud knocks on the door and sighs 

<Sanosuke> no answer

<Phoenix> "Well gotta let myself in....  c'mon"

<Phoenix> Cloud unlocks the door and leads Lina into the apartment

<Sanosuke> Rufus was snoring softly on his bed, looking like he really needed that sleep.

<Phoenix> "Should I wake him up?"  Cloud asks himself

<Sanosuke> Rufus's chest raised and fell slowly.

<Phoenix> Cloud pokes him experimentally

<Sanosuke> Rufus groaned and shifted slightly, rolling onto his side and clutching a pillow like it was somone.

<Phoenix> "how cute..."

<Phoenix> Cloud sits on the spot Rufus vacated and pokes him again

<Sanosuke> Rufus rolled over again and muttered something.

<Phoenix> "You lazy... c'mon... just a few seconds of your precious sleepy time"  Cloud says with a small chuckle and pokes him once more

<Sanosuke> Rufus opened an eye. "Cloud? wha.. what you doing back already?"

<Phoenix> "I brought you a present"

<Sanosuke> "Present?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah... look "

<Phoenix> Cloud points at the girl who is chewing on her finger and looking timid

<Sanosuke> Rufus looked around and blinked, then fell off his bed, "What the????"

<Phoenix> "Well... I got her and I thought you might want her..."

<Sanosuke> "Wha.. wha..." Rufus started hyperventilating, "But.... Cloud... got her?"

<Phoenix> "Shh... Rufus... calm down...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus chewed on his pillow.

<Phoenix> Cloud pulls the pillow away

<Phoenix> "Im not saying you have to use her or anything

<Sanosuke> "Why'd you get her?"

<Phoenix> "Cuz... I made a bribe...."

<Sanosuke> "Y-you.. what?"

<Phoenix> "Shh...."

<Sanosuke> "Why'd you do such a thing?"

<Phoenix> "Because I didnt know what else to do"

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed and put his head in his hands.

<Phoenix> "Please Rufus... just take care of her...?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus mumbled a yes.

<Phoenix> "I dont have room in my apartment.... and you need someone to keep you company...."

<Phoenix> "Good boy"  cloud says and pats him....

<Sanosuke> Rufus groaned and grabbed his pillow, chewing it again.

<Phoenix> "Be good Lina...  "  Cloud says.. and heads for home

<Sanosuke> Rufus continued to chew on his pillow.

<Phoenix> Lina looks at Rufus and shifts from foot to foot... not sure what to do

<Sanosuke> Rufus pulled himself onto the bed, still chewing on the pillow.

<Phoenix> Lina looks about ready to cry herself

<Sanosuke> Rufus finally put his pillow down and pulled his arms around himself.

<Phoenix> "mister?"

<Sanosuke> "Y-yes?"

<Phoenix> "What... do you want me to do?"

<Sanosuke> "N-nothing.... I..." he shivered.

<Phoenix> "You dont like girls.... I think I heard..."

<Sanosuke> "It's more like... hookers make me nervous..."

<Phoenix> "Why?"

<Sanosuke> "Cause of my little brother...."

<Phoenix> Lina moves towards him and sits down on the edge of the bed

<Phoenix> "Tell me about him?"

<Sanosuke> "He's been on drugs since he was 13.... and eventually started selling himself to buy..."

<Phoenix> "ohh... so he's like me?"

<Sanosuke> "You use drugs?"

<Phoenix> "No...."

<Sanosuke> "Then you're not like him."

<Phoenix> "Do you want me to go back?

<Sanosuke> "No... not to that life..."

<Phoenix> "So I can stay here?"

<Sanosuke> "I.. I guess..."

<Phoenix> "I can go if you want me to...."

<Sanosuke> "Where would you go though?"

<Phoenix> "the only places I could go... is home.... or back to Xellos..."

<Phoenix> Lina shudders

<Sanosuke> "Both are bad?"

<Phoenix> "yeah... my sister at home is why I left there'

<Sanosuke> "Oh. Don't get along I take it."

<Phoenix> "she's cruel..."

<Sanosuke> "My little brother is just... stupid..."

<Phoenix> "I dont want to go back to either place.... but I can try... to make my keep here.."

<Phoenix> "So... why dont you try and stop him?"

<Sanosuke> "I have... he never listens.... hes gonna die young..."

<Phoenix> "Maybe he's better off...."  Lina says.... a far off look in her eyes

<Sanosuke> Rufus frowned. "When he was 15 he was in the hosspital because of an od.... it hurt my father a lot to see him like that."

<Phoenix> "You ever had to live that life?"

<Sanosuke> "What sort of life?"

<Phoenix> "The life I... or your brother has lead?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus shook his head. "My family is rich.... he doesn't need to do that.... he... he has a choice and he doesn't take it."

<Phoenix> "But if you lived... the way Ive lived... you would understand better I think..'

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded. "But he doesn't have to live baddly..."

<Phoenix> "I know...  but.... you'd understand better"

<Sanosuke> "Like what?"

<Phoenix> "The older girls used to always try to get me to.... use stuff... cuz they said it would make the pain go away... and after a while I wouldnt care anymore"

<Sanosuke> "Drugs?"

<Phoenix> "yeah...."

<Phoenix> "Some weird new drug..."

<Sanosuke> "I'm not keen on new drugs.. that's for the narcs."

<Phoenix> "This one's different though...."

<Sanosuke> "What's it called?"

<Phoenix> "Its called white hole.... "

<Sanosuke> "Never heard of it..." Rufus was holding his pillow on his lap now.

<Phoenix> "It really zonks you out Ive heard..."

<Sanosuke> "My brother's probably used it then..."

<Phoenix> "Its really addictive too..."

<Sanosuke> "Most of the girls use it?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah...."

<Phoenix> "Xellos kinda pushes them to..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed. "Does he now?"

<Phoenix> "I wouldnt tho..."

<Sanosuke> "Is that why you were afraid of him?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah... I think once you take it... you really are his slave...."

<Sanosuke> "What about him? Does he take drugs?"

<Phoenix> "I dont think so... whats a master that cant think to rule his slaves?"

<Phoenix> "Unless he's not the top...."

<Sanosuke> "Hmmm..." Rufus got a thoughtful look.

<Phoenix> Lina looks at Rufus a moment

<Sanosuke> "I'm going back to work.... you can sleep anywhere you want here."

<Phoenix> "Okay..."

<Phoenix> Lina flops down on Rufus' bed

<Sanosuke> Rufus got up and went to get changed for work.

<Phoenix> Lina curls up into a ball on the bed.... not used to sleeping alone and loving it

<Sanosuke> When Rufus got back to the station he went back to the morgue and studied the info on the two victoms.

<Sanosuke> Rufus was grabbing the files when he bumped into another cop.

<Phoenix> "Yo... watch it..."

<Sanosuke> "Sorry." Rufus turned to him.

<Phoenix> "s'okay"

<Sanosuke> Rufus took the files as he walked off.

<Phoenix> "Hey... wait a sec!"

<Phoenix> Serge grabs the report

<Sanosuke> "I need those!" Rufus grabbed backed.

<Phoenix> "I need em more!"

<Sanosuke> "Why don't we both look at them then?"

<Phoenix> "Fine...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus walked to the confrince room and sat down, spreading out the reports so they could both look at them.

<Phoenix> "You on this case too huh?"

<Phoenix> Serge flips a strand of blue hair out of his face

<Sanosuke> "Which case would that be? These two people were both killed by the same person..."

<Phoenix> "Well... they were both high on some new synthetic drug when they croaked"

<Sanosuke> "I see... Perhaps that's how they were able to not scream as they were cut up..."

<Phoenix> "Mph.. yea... this stuff really yonks you out..."

<Sanosuke> "Pain killer?"

<Phoenix> "More than just.... takes you out of this world"

<Sanosuke> "How so?"

<Phoenix> "Its a hallucinogenic....

<Sanosuke> "So they don't know what gets em?"

<Phoenix> "Yah.... its only that way for a little..."

<Sanosuke> "Horrible... I bet my brother..." Rufus sighed hard.

<Phoenix> "we're tryin to slow down its distribution..."

<Phoenix> "Cant find the key dealer though"

<Sanosuke> "Any idea why these two were killed?"

<Phoenix> "possibly because they were screwin with the distribution of that drug..."

<Sanosuke> "Well, Edgar was a drug dealer."

<Phoenix> "whoever killed them probably let them hit up.... to "test" a shipment... then offed em"

<Sanosuke> "So you're thinking the killer is a dealer? I don't buy it... these look more like some psycho what with the fact he nearly gutted them."

<Phoenix> "Could be just a warning... to others...."

<Phoenix> "You know... mess with me and die like this"

<Sanosuke> Rufus bit his lip. "Well, I do know a club that might be a disribution place... it's a club I go to a lot... there's a brothel in back and one of the former hookers told me they use white hole there a lot."

<Phoenix> Serge nods

<Sanosuke> "Want me to show you?"

<Phoenix> "Sure..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus stood up, gathering the files back together.

<Sanosuke> "Want to go there now?"

"Shall we go there now?" Rufus gathered the files together.

<Phoenix>  "I suppose..."

<Sanosuke> "Alright. I know the way. We'll take my car."

<Phoenix> "Cool... mine's a little sick"

<Sanosuke> "Sick?" Rufus headed out toward the garage.

<Phoenix> "has a few holes in it...

<Sanosuke> "Bullet holes or something?"

<Phoenix> "yah...."

<Phoenix> 'Whats your name anyway?"

<Sanosuke> "I'm Rufus... and you are?" He climbed into his car, tossing the files on the passenger seat.

<Phoenix> "Serge... Sergey.... Sergie-poo.... whatever you want"

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "You got quite a list. Get on in."

<Phoenix> "All from workin undercover..."  Serge says and plops down in the car

<Sanosuke> "I see... Serge then." Rufus started up the car.

<Phoenix> "Aww... no poo for you?" Serge syas with a smirk

<Sanosuke> Rufus laughed. "Why? You like that?" HE drove down the street.

<Phoenix> "Naw...  just well.... ahh nevermind"

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled and pulled up near the club, finding a place to park at this early hour.

<Phoenix> "Hey wow.... this a gay bar?"

<Sanosuke> "Why you ask?" Rufus got out, blinking at him.

<Phoenix> "Oh cuz Ive been looking..."

<Sanosuke> "It's mixed.... I think Cloud met his new boy friend here.. but there's a brothel in the back we just found out... full of girls."

<Phoenix> "ohh... those are some fun too... but.... I dont go there"

<Phoenix> "Ive had to pose through them...  even as a male hooker once..."

<Sanosuke> "... I see." Rufus walked into the club, "Well, I was told there's a lot of drug use going on in back."

<Phoenix> "ohh ... right up my alley"

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded. "Yep. Why we came here kid."

<Phoenix> "Ey.... thats one thing not ta call me...."

<Sanosuke> "

<Phoenix> Serge shudders 

<Sanosuke> "Sorry.... Serge.... I tend to call everyone younger then me that... a bad habbit I picked up."

<Phoenix> "Well just call me anything but Kid... long story....."

<Sanosuke> "Alright then." Rufus scanned around the room.

<Phoenix> "Lets just go to the meat and potatoes huh??"  

<Sanosuke> "Meaning?" Rufus blinked at him, not familier with the term.

<Phoenix> "Cut to the chase..... find the boss you know?"

<Sanosuke> "He'd be in the back."

<Phoenix> "Lets go then?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded and headed to the bead curtain, pushing it asside.

<Phoenix> Serge strides through and runs a critical eye over the place

<Sanosuke> The girls all look at him. Rufus stands his ground, glaring at the bouncer.

<Phoenix> "Hey ladies!"  Serge says and waves

<Sanosuke> One of them walked over. "How did you two get back here?"

<Phoenix> "What?  Im lookin for an escort"

<Sanosuke> The girl moved her green hair away from her eyes before folding her arms. "You're standing next to a cop..."

<Phoenix> "So?"

<Phoenix> "Wanna play good cop bad cop with me sweetie?"

<Sanosuke> She tapped her foot. "Don't call me sweetie... please leave."

<Phoenix> "What the?  You dont want my money?":

<Sanosuke> "You heard me.... This is a respectible place...."

<Phoenix> "Respectable?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes. Now turn tale and walk the other way."

<Phoenix> "Im definately not recommending this place to anyone"

<Sanosuke> "We only want regulars in here anyway."

<Phoenix> "Cant I be a regular?  Im new in this town..."

<Sanosuke> "I said get...." Her eyes narrowed at him.

<Sanosuke> Rufus leaned over and whispered that the boss was in the office in the back.

<Phoenix> "ahh.... blow me babe..."  Serge says and shoves her out of the way

<Sanosuke> "H-hey!" She yelped as she was shoved.

<Phoenix> Serge heads for the back room

<Sanosuke> HE saw a man sitting at a desk in the room.

<Phoenix> "Hey... you the big man here?"

<Sanosuke> He stood up. "What are you doing back here?" He asked politly.

<Phoenix> "Your girls were giving me a hard time about making some purchases..."

<Sanosuke> The man glanced past him, then at him. "I see."

<Phoenix> "They got a problem with out of towners?"

<Sanosuke> "Cops I do..."

<Phoenix> "Aww..."

<Sanosuke> "What do you really want?"

<Phoenix> "You been selling white hole?"

<Sanosuke> "I don't sell drugs..."

<Phoenix> "Oh come now.... Ive been told all your girls are on it"

<Sanosuke> "Just where did you hear such a thing?"

<Phoenix> "Can I take some blood samples...?"

<Sanosuke> "You'll have to ask them..."

<Phoenix> "So you dont mind then?"

<Sanosuke> "I didn't say that. Many of them don't like blood drawn..."

<Phoenix> "Not like they'll have a choice..."

<Sanosuke> "Fine then... call in the medical people to draw their blood. If you excuse me, I have an appointment.”

<Phoenix> Serge shrugs 

<Phoenix> "Alrighty then...."  He says and pulls out a cellphone

<Sanosuke> The man brushed past him, heading for the door.,

<Phoenix> "Can I get a med team down here?  and some lockup for trouble.."

<Sanosuke> The man was gone...

<Sanosuke> Rufus went up to Serge. "Who are you calling?"

<Phoenix> "Bustin down on this place... "

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded. "I suppose it's for the best... but I think Xellos got away..."

 

Rufus had his head against the wall, his clothing rumpled.... 

<Phoenix> Cloud looks at him ... puzzled

<Phoenix> "Rufus?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus was crying, banging his head softly against the wall. Another cop saw Cloud and waved him over out to the hall.

<Phoenix> "Whats wrong with him?"

<Sanosuke> "Better come see... we got two more bodies in last night..." The cop sighed, walking down to the morgue.

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns and heads down to the morgue

<Sanosuke> On the tables were two covered bodies. The cop gesutured to the first one and sighed. it was covered but the file was attached to the foot of the bed.

<Phoenix> Cloud picks up the file and looks it over

<Sanosuke> The name across the top of it was familier... then it hit him.. the boy from the other night...

<Phoenix> "Damn... we just had him in the other day..."

<Sanosuke> "Rufus's little brother..." The cop said softly before heading out of the room.

<Phoenix> "Oh man...."

<Sanosuke> The sheet covered the kid's nude body.

<Phoenix> "Poor Rufus... "

<Sanosuke> No wonder why he was up there crying.

<Phoenix> Cloud put his hand on his head...... not sure how to deal with this

<Sanosuke> There was another body in the morgue too.. listed as part of the same kill patern as the other two.

<Phoenix> Cloud sets down the first set of papers and picks up the others

<Sanosuke> Same pattern of slash marks, though hidden under the white sheet it was writen on the report Cloud was veiwing. The guy had been a drug dealer across town.

<Phoenix> Cloud shakes his head "Its not gonna end...."

<Sanosuke> They still had no suspects and no clues.

<Phoenix> "Im not supposed to keep investigating... but.... is that no longer in effect now that the club's been busted?"

<Sanosuke> The club had been busted by Rufus and now Rufus's younger brother lay dead on the slab... could there be a connection?

<Phoenix> "Man..."

<Phoenix> Cloud sets the paper down and heads up to check on Rufus

<Sanosuke> Rufus was yelling and shouting at random people, his cheeks stained with tears.

<Phoenix> Cloud moves to him.... "rufus... calm down.."

<Sanosuke> Rufus shook him off. "How can I calm down? I'm NOT going home! I doin't need fucking time off! I want to find out who the hell did this and nail them to a pole!"

<Phoenix> "Please.... Rufus..."

<Sanosuke> "What Cloud?"

<Phoenix> "Just calm down... okay.... please?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus huffed and took out his cigs, lighting up with trembling hands.

Rufus shakily lit up a cig.

<Phoenix>  "Rufus?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah?" He puffed away, his arms pulled around himself.

<Phoenix> "Are you okay?"

<Sanosuke> "Ok? OK! How am I to be ok when my little brother lays dead and cut up on a slab???"

<Phoenix> Cloud draws back... cringing

<Phoenix> "Im sorry... Rufus...."  Cloud says softly

<Sanosuke> Rufus pounded the wall with his fist and didn't notice the figure entering the room.

<Sanosuke> "Ahem.." The figure said.

<Phoenix> Cloud hardly notices... searching for his half completed withdrawal papers

<Sanosuke> "Detectives.... if I could speak to you..." The figure went on.

<Phoenix> "Sure... but... not detective much longer..."

<Sanosuke> "Sit down, we need to talk, and wait for that narco detective who is also a part of this."

<Phoenix> Cloud sits down 

<Sanosuke> Rufus sat as the figure got himself some coffee.

<Phoenix> Cloud pokes a finger in his mouth and chews on it

<Sanosuke> Rufus puffed away on his cig, not even noticing when Serge entered.

<Phoenix> Serge frowns when he enterss.... knowing that he killed Rufus' brother prettymuch

<Sanosuke> The figure shut the door and sipped his coffee. "Glad you all could get here."

<Phoenix> "Mph.."   Cloud says ... still chewing his finger

<Sanosuke> "Dec, please take that finger out of your mouth, we all need to talk."

<Phoenix> Cloud looks sheepish and does as he is told

<Sanosuke> The man... if that's what he could be called in the first place... sat down, drinking coffee still. "Thank you."

<Phoenix> Serge grabs a chair and turns it around... sitting down and leaning on the backrest

<Sanosuke> "Now, I'm from the FBI..." The person explained, "I called you all together here since we are all working on the same case."

<Phoenix> "Oooh... big gun...."  

<Sanosuke> "You could say that. I've come since now that the case is almost wrapped up my partner, whose undercover, is in a great deal of danger... and it seems you three are very much involved with this case, too much to be left 

<Sanosuke> out of it... besides, my partner's last messege to me said you'd probably be a big help in bringing the big boss down, even with the two plants on the inside."

<Phoenix> "I dont want anything to do with this case...."  Cloud whines

<Sanosuke> "And why not?"

<Phoenix> "Cos... Rufus hates me...."

<Sanosuke> "No.. I don't.." Rufus whispered, puffing on his second cig.

<Phoenix> "Yes you do!"

<Sanosuke> "No I don't... how could you think that??"

<Phoenix> "You always have.."

<Sanosuke> "Cloud, come on... where are you getting that idea?" Rufus was frowning saddly.

<Phoenix> "You never even noticed any of ....."

<Sanosuke> "Noticed what? Cloud?"

<Sanosuke> The FBI agent got himself more coffee.

<Phoenix> 'how I was always coming on to you..... youre so damned blind!"

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed and hung his head. "Yes, I am rather blind about the world... I... I'm sorry."

<Phoenix> Cloud draws his arms around himself and sniffles

<Sanosuke> "You got someone now Cloud..." Rufus pointed out, "And I think I'm to screwed up to love."

<Phoenix> "Thats not the point..."  Cloud grumbles

<Sanosuke> Rufus got up and went for the door.

<Phoenix> "Nobody's ever too screwed up.. to love... "  serge says

<Sanosuke> The FBI guy sighed and got yet another cup of coffee.

<Sanosuke> Rufus leaned his head on the door, puffing on his cig. "I just lost my brother... I wasn't there for him... I, always wanted to save him...." Rufus sighed, "Maybe Lina's right and he's better off dead now..."

<Phoenix> "Its my fault you lost your brother..... Rufus..."

<Sanosuke> "No... he's been lost since he was 13..." Tears dripped down Rufus's cheeks, "He's out of his misery now..."

<Phoenix> Serge frowns.... and gets up to put a hand on Rufus' back

<Sanosuke> The FBI agent sighed. "These are the guys... the ones we are after... that got your little brother hooked on drugs.. and the rest... all to black mail your father into giving them money..."

<Sanosuke> "W-what?" Rufus gasped.

<Phoenix> Cloud puts his finger back in his mouth

<Sanosuke> "We're still trying to get him to listen.. your father that is." The agent went on.

<Phoenix> Serge rubs his hand in slow circles on Rufus' back

<Sanosuke> Rufus slowly calmed down. "I want to get those SOBs.... I want to get the ones that killed him last night and long ago..."

<Phoenix> "Shh.... we will..." Serge assured him.

<Phoenix> "But... I.... I cant... "  Cloud murmurs

<Sanosuke> "Why not Dec?" The agent asked.

<Phoenix> "I.... I.... took a bribe..."

<Sanosuke> "I heard... it was ok, we in the FBI sort of needed you away from there as well... we had an idea this would happen. You didn't take a bad bribe kid, you helped someone."

<Phoenix> Cloud nods "But I should still resign..."

<Sanosuke> "Look, like it or not you're in on this whole thing and we could use your help."

<Phoenix> "What do ou want me to do?"  Cloud says... looking slightly panicked

<Sanosuke> "Look, all of you... go home.. get some rest... and think about it.... I'll be here tomorrow morning waiting."

<Phoenix> Cloud pretty much runs out the door

<Sanosuke> Rufus sunk down in the corner and sniffled.

<Phoenix> "C'mon rufus... I'll take you home okay?"  Serge offers

<Sanosuke> "Thanks." Rufus stood slowly.

<Phoenix> "No problem... c'mon

<Sanosuke> "I got an exhooker in my house... I don't want to send her away cause she's got no one."

<Phoenix> 'oh?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah, her name's Lina... poor kid. I... didn't save my brother... but maybe, just maybe... I can save her."

<Phoenix> "Ahh... well you want me to take you to your place right?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah, I do... thanks."

<Phoenix> 'cmon...."  Serge says and pulls Rufus along

<Sanosuke> Rufus followed him, the cig still in his mouth as he was pulled along.

<Phoenix> Serge stops in front of a motorcycle and hands Rufus a helmet

<Sanosuke> rufus put it on. "Nice bike."

<Phoenix> "Thanks... hop on"  serge says as he pulls on a helmet

<Sanosuke> Rufus slid onto the bike.

<Phoenix> Serge smiles at him "Hold on tight cutie...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus does so, holding tight to Serge.

<Phoenix> Serge peels out of the garage.... yelling to rufus "so where do ya live?" as he speeds along

<Sanosuke> "Down this way. Turn right at the next light."

<Phoenix> "M'kay!"  Serge says and turns at the light  "Just yell when ta stop"

<Sanosuke> "That large appartment building down the street."

<Phoenix> Serge stops in front of it and looks at it "Looks posh.."

<Sanosuke> "My dad's rich..." Rufus slid off the bike and headed up.

<Phoenix> "Hey wait.... do you want me to come up?"

<Sanosuke> "Sure... You can come up."

<Phoenix> Serge grins and locks up his bike..... then follows Rufus

<Sanosuke> Rufus opened his appartment and stopped.

<Phoenix> Lina looks up from what she's doing and flinches slightly... as if she's worried Rufus will  hit her...  but its apparent she's been... redecorating

<Sanosuke> "You max out that card already?" Rufus didn't sound mad, just shocked as he looked around.

<Phoenix> "Umm..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus stepped in and blinked some more.

<Phoenix> Lina nods slowly.... "Theres something I cooked in the warmer... if you want it...."

<Phoenix> The place has been done over in what appears to be Japanese style furniture... with paper screens and such

<Sanosuke> "T-thank you." Rufus headed into his kitchen.

<Phoenix> "Hey.... nice Rufus... "  Serge says... apparently not having it as well

<Sanosuke> Rufus was shocked that there was food in his kitchen and sniffed the stove area.

<Phoenix> "Rufus.... no fair..."  Serge complains..... not noting Lina as she slinks off to hide.

<Sanosuke> "What's not fair?" Rufus munches on whatever Lina made.

<Phoenix> "You got food... and a nice place to live.... Im lucky if I have ramen some nights..."

<Sanosuke> "I usally don't have food here... I eat ramen a lot too."

<Phoenix> "So thats the girl Cloud brought you home huh?"  Serge asks... sampling some of the food as well

<Sanosuke> "Yeah, let me go check on her." Rufus walked off and looked for Lina/.

<Phoenix> Lina is curled up on the bed in a room she's claimed as her own...

<Sanosuke> "Lina?" He asked, looking in on her.

<Phoenix> "mm?"

<Sanosuke> "Are you ok?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah... “

<Sanosuke> "You just ran off into here when I got home... oh, and thank you."

<Phoenix> "Youre welcome... I just... am afraid of ... men you know... I dont mean to be disrespectful to your company...."

<Sanosuke> "Lina.... my brother was murdered last night...."

<Phoenix> Lina sits up and frowns "Im sorry for saying he was better off that way..... now"

<Sanosuke> Rufus went over to her bed and sat down in the chair next to it. "It was horrible.. seein hisbody all cut up... he had traces of white hole in his system to."

<Phoenix> "Are you going to be okay?"  Lina asks... gingerly putting her hand on his shoulder

<Sanosuke> "I don't know.... I couldn't save him.. and now I've learned my father was being black mailed with my brother.... probably pictures."

<Phoenix> "Are you going to bust them?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes.... but I'm also worried... my father's been paying them off it seems... he could get in trouble."

<Phoenix> "Better than leaving them to continue..... right?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes... they killed my brother... I'm gonna kill them..."

<Phoenix> "All of them?"

<Sanosuke> "......" He sighed, "Just the ones that stuck knives in my little brother after... after fucking his brains out and dosing him with drugs."

<Phoenix> Lina winces at that 

<Phoenix> "at least he didnt die in total pain... you can be grateful for that.... its little consolance though...."

<Sanosuke> "They didn't find his..." Rufus couldn't say it but the tone sort of implied it. "Yes, he was probably to wacked to notice he was being cut up."

<Phoenix> Lina frowns

<Phoenix> "they are monsters....."

<Sanosuke> "Yes. My poor little brother... I just hope he's peaceful now... he was always at war with everything..."

<Phoenix> "Im sure he is...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus sniffled and closed his eyes. "That's all I can ask for... a little peace for my poor troubled little brother."

<Phoenix> Lina puts her arms around him and hugs him  "Life goes on.... despite the pain"

<Sanosuke> "Life is filled with pain.... if the end of life brings the end of pain then my little brother is much better off, but I will still kill the bastards that did that to him."

<Phoenix> Lina nods "you should.”

<Sanosuke> "Thank you... I hope I will survie it."

<Phoenix> "Please do?"

<Sanosuke> "Lina... I failed to save my little brother... I wish to save you.... do you understand that?"

<Phoenix> "Yes... I think"

<Sanosuke> Rufus hugged her and sniffled some more.

<Phoenix> "I dont want to go back to that life.. if something happened to you.... I would have to...."

<Sanosuke> "Then I'll live.. I never want anyone else to have to stay in that life."

<Phoenix> "Thank you"  Lina says with a big smile

<Sanosuke> "You're welcome."

 

After stopping by the Club to stare at it quietly.... Cloud retires to his favorite restaurant... wondering how he will ever find Sephiroth

<Sanosuke> Of course, as it turned out, that's where Sephiroth was... sitting alone in a back booth slowly nursing a drink.

<Phoenix> Cloud sees him and heads  for his booth.... stopping a few feet away

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked up and smiled softly at him. "Gonna join me?" He asked.

<Phoenix> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled.

<Phoenix> Cloud slips into the booth... wanting to wrap himself around Sephiroth and cry.... but restraining that

<Sanosuke> "You alright Cloud?" He asked, pushing him the glass.

<Phoenix> "No... Im not alright..."

<Sanosuke> "What's wrong?"

<Phoenix> "Im going to end up dead or something Im sure..."

<Sanosuke> "How come?"

<Phoenix> "They still want me to work on that damned case...."

<Sanosuke> "And you don't want to?"

<Phoenix> "I cant.. I took a bribe.... if I continue to work on that case... I guess myself and the bribe are in danger....

<Sanosuke> "Bribe in danger?"

<Phoenix> "I took one of his girls as a bribe...  one Rufus felt sorry for...."

<Sanosuke> "Took one of whose now? And you kept her out of harms way i take it."

<Phoenix> "Xellos' girls.... I took one of his.... she's a little thing... I gave her to Rufus..."

<Phoenix> "She's safe.... there I hope"

<Sanosuke> "Ah yes.. and because of Xellos's brothel the club was shut down."

<Phoenix> "Personally I think Im screwed... if I  keep working on the case.... that man is ... a freak"

<Sanosuke> "Xellos?"

<Phoenix> Cloud nods and puts his head on the table

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth stroked Cloud's hair.

<Phoenix> "I might as well though... Rufus hates me anyway... and Im supposed to die  on duty.... arent I?"

<Sanosuke> "Hey... come on now. You don't have to die..."

<Phoenix> "I need to go home... and sleep....."  cloud whimpers "because when I Wake up I have to go back...."

<Sanosuke> "I'll take you home then, ok?"

<Phoenix> "Okay...."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth stood, paying for his drink, and helped Cloud to his feet.

<Phoenix> "And I thought Rufus was the one losing it"

<Sanosuke> "Shh... I'll take care of you Cloud." Sephiroth wrapped one arm around him and walked out with him.

<Phoenix> Cloud leans on Sephiroth ... glad to have him

<Sanosuke> "Which way to your home?"

<Phoenix> Cloud points

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth followed the point, holding him close.

<Phoenix> "Here.."  cloud says ... stopping them in front of his building

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked up at the building. "Arlight... open it up?

<Phoenix> Cloud uses his key... his hands fumbling a little

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth helped him steady his hand and walked to his appartment with him.

<Phoenix> "Do you want to come in.... ?" 

<Sanosuke> "Yes, thank you."

<Phoenix> "Please spend the night with me?"

<Sanosuke> "If that will help."

<Phoenix> "Yes... please Im not expecting anything... I just need company"

<Sanosuke> "Of course." Sephiroth closed the door behind them and helped Cloud in.

<Phoenix> "my place is a hole.... dont mind it...."

<Sanosuke> "It's ok with me... where's the bedroom?"

<Phoenix> "Over here.... "

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth went with Cloud and sat down on the bed.

<Phoenix> cloud nestles against him... sighing softly "Im pathetic.. Im supposed to be strong... about this sort of thing"

<Sanosuke> "I can be strong for you Cloud..."

<Phoenix> "I keep thinking... about.... how I may end up in the morgue like all those others...:

<Sanosuke> "Which others?"

<Phoenix> "The ones from this case...."

<Sanosuke> "I don't know the case of which you speak Cloud, clue me in or can you not say?"

<Phoenix> "I... really shouldnt... but does it matter?"

<Phoenix> "Someone is goin around ... drugging up people then dicing them up....."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth brought his lips to Cloud's head, kissing him softly there.

<Phoenix> Cloud closes his eyes..... "I guess... its not a bad way to go though... you dont feel anything...."

<Sanosuke> "The drug?"

<Phoenix> "yea...."

<Sanosuke> "How so?"

<Phoenix> "Its a new synthetic I believe.... known as white hole... really puts you out of it supposedly"

<Sanosuke> "So much so that you can't feel pain eh?"

<Phoenix> "I would hope for those poor people's sakes"

<Sanosuke> "You think it hurt them?"

<Phoenix> "Dont know..."

<Sanosuke> "Try to imagine it then."

<Phoenix> 'No.. I dont want to..."

<Sanosuke> "Then just rest.”

<Phoenix> "m'kay"  Cloud says sleepily

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth stroked his hair slowly.

<Phoenix> Cloud relaxes on Sephiroth.... slowly drifting away

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth got comfy against the backboard and just held him.

<Phoenix> Cloud falls asleep in Sephiroth's lap.... an innocent smile on his face

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was still there in the morning.

<Phoenix> Cloud looks at Sephiroth sadly as he wakes

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was asleep, sitting against the backboard and holding Cloud.

<Phoenix> Cloud strokes his fingers along Sephiroth's cheek  murmuring softly

<Sanosuke> Those aqua eyes slowly opened and he smiled at Cloud.

<Phoenix> "Morning... "   Cloud says with a sad smile "I wish I could wake up to this every day..."

<Sanosuke> "Wake up to being held?"

<Phoenix> "wake up to you... period..."   Cloud says and kisses him

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled and kissed back softly. "I never thought I'd hear that. Mostly people only want me for one night."

<Phoenix> "Gods no.... damn.... I want you forever..  youre so wonderful.... "

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled. "You really mean that?"

<Phoenix> "Yes... please...."

<Sanosuke> "Then you'd better live... alright?"

<Phoenix> "I'll promise....that for you... anything for you"

<Sanosuke> "then live live live..."

<Phoenix> Cloud nuzzles Sephiroth's neck  "For you I will"

<Sanosuke> "Good... now, arn't you due at work?"

<Phoenix> "shit...  yeah... ohh I dont want to go ..."

<Phoenix> Cloud grumbles and gets up.... changing hastily

<Sanosuke> "Mind if I sleep here? I'm more of a night owl."

<Phoenix> "Sure.... you can sleep here:

<Sanosuke> "Thanks." Sephiroth smiled.

<Phoenix> Cloud fumbles with his tie as he leans over to kiss Sephiroth again before leaving

<Sanosuke> Seph kissed back then curled up in the bed,

<Phoenix> Cloud smiles at him.... and heads off to work.. a little happier than the day before

<Sanosuke> Rufus was fixing the coffee, muttering something about that strange FBI agent who was right now in the blonde's office.

<Phoenix> Cloud walks in .. brushing past Rufus and heading for his thier office

<Sanosuke> The strange looking person with blue skin was sitting at the desk, drinking coffee.

<Phoenix> Cloud grabs a chair and sits down

<Sanosuke> "Good morning dec Cloud..." He greated.

<Phoenix> "morning...."

<Sanosuke> "What have you concluded?"

<Phoenix> Cloud gives the FBI agent a sullen stare

<Sanosuke> "Well?"

<Phoenix> "Im doing my job like Im supposed to:

<Sanosuke> "Good man..."

<Phoenix> Cloud closes his eyes and look thoughtful

<Sanosuke> Rufus walked in and just handed the FBI agent the coffee pot, not even bothering to pour it.,

<Phoenix> Serge follows Rufus in

<Sanosuke> Rufus sighed and yawned.

<Phoenix> Serge hugs Rufus

<Sanosuke> the agent just drank from the pot after that as if he lived off coffee.

<Phoenix> "Youre yawning....  I slept on a couch...."

<Sanosuke> "I'm sorry..."

<Phoenix> "Next time I Get the bed.... "  serge says... then lowers his voice slightly "and its contents"

<Sanosuke> "Alright... alright..." Rufus yawned again.

<Phoenix> "Mmm.. hey you didnt complain... great!"

<Sanosuke> "Mmm?" Rufus blinked.

<Phoenix> Sergey pecks him on the cheek "youre the contents of the bed you know"

<Sanosuke> "Oh yah..." Rufus's head swam.

<Phoenix> "Poor thing.... sit"  Serge orders Rufus... pulling over a chair for him

<Sanosuke> Rufus sat down and yawned. "I didn't actually sleep last night... just thought to myself."

<Phoenix> "You'll sleep tonight then.... I'll make you

<Sanosuke> "Ok..."

<Sanosuke> "We have a lot of paper work today.." The agent told them.

<Phoenix> "Paperwork?"  Cloud complains

<Sanosuke> He nodded. "Yep..."

<Phoenix> "Man... "

The paper work was all boring stuff pertaining to the case and to be quite about the FBI involvment.

<Phoenix>  "Ohh this is bullshit..."  Serge gripes

<Sanosuke> "Yea..." Rufus groaned, filling the forms out.

<Phoenix> Cloud chews on his finger as he fills  out the forms...

<Sanosuke> IT took the whole long day... and that agent still didn't quit drinking coffee.

<Phoenix> "Gods man.... did you get the way you look from drinkin office coffee?  Serge asks... looking at his cup dubiously

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded as they left. '

<Sanosuke> "I got the feeling he runs on it or something...."

<Phoenix> Cloud frowns "I dont like paperwork...

<Sanosuke> "It's done now." The agent told him as he stood./

<Phoenix> "Can I go home?"  Cloud whimpers

<Sanosuke> "Yes you may."

<Phoenix> Cloud practically bounces out the door

<Sanosuke> Rufus got up and walked out as well, but with Serge.

<Phoenix> "Wanna go on a date Rufus?"  Serge asks

<Sanosuke> "Date?" Rufus asks.

<Phoenix> "yeah... I like you"

<Sanosuke> "I noticed... but I never heard the term date and me used together before."

<Phoenix> "Aww.. youre cute... why not?"

<Sanosuke> "I don't know. Cloud and I went clubbing all the time..."

<Phoenix> "How come you never came on to him?

<Sanosuke> "Well I...." Rufus sighed, "I sort of did but, we were partners and... I wasn't sure he truly wanted a relationship. I gues I am dumb after all..."

<Phoenix> "Poor kid... but I do want a relationship.... can ya handle that?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah... I suppose so. He's got someone else."

<Phoenix> "Oh?"

<Sanosuke> "Yah... let's get home.

<Phoenix> "Can I live with you too?"  Serge asks... looking miserable

<Sanosuke> "You don't have a home?"

<Phoenix> "I do... but its a shithole"

<Sanosuke> "Ah, alright.. come back with me then."

<Phoenix> "Yay!"

<Sanosuke> Rufus headed back with him just like the day before.

<Phoenix> "Can I sleep in your bed?"

<Sanosuke> "It's comfy I guess."

<Phoenix> "will you be in there too?"

<Sanosuke> "Yah..." Rufus walked into his appartment.

<Phoenix> "oh goody...

<Sanosuke> Rufus waved to Lina and yawned.

<Phoenix> Lina looks at Serge and seems a bit edgy about him being there

<Sanosuke> Rufus pointed Serge toward his room before going to Lina. "You ok?"

<Phoenix> "Yeah.. just the guy thing... Im sorry..."

<Sanosuke> "It's ok. He's got no interest in woman."

<Phoenix> Lina nods "do you want dinner?"

<Sanosuke> "Thanks. You've been eating too, right?"

<Phoenix> "Of course..."

<Sanosuke> HE smiled. "Good. Food and rest is very important."

<Phoenix> "Can you see if you can help me find a school I can go to?"

<Sanosuke> "What type of school?" Rufus smiled.

<Phoenix> "Even though I'd really be far behind...  I want to try to be something"

<Sanosuke> "Good. and here you can have a roof over your head and food."

<Phoenix> "Im glad for that... Im trying to repay you as best I can... cooking.. cleaning and the like"

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "Well, it's better then selling yourself."

<Phoenix> "Anything is better than that sir.."

<Sanosuke> "And here you will not be harmed."

<Phoenix> "No drugs.. no hitting... its wonderful..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus smiled softly. "It's the least I can do for someone..."

<Phoenix> "I thank you from the bottom of my heart... "  Lina says with a big smile... so unlike her usual smiles

<Sanosuke> He smiled back and tasted her food before helping himself to a bowl.

<Phoenix> "Gonna feed your .... umm friend as well?"

<Sanosuke> "Hey Serge, you hungry?" He hollered.

<Phoenix> "Hell yeah!" Serge replied.

<Sanosuke> "Come in here and eat then."

<Phoenix> Serge comes out... having lost his tie and jacket somewhere along the way

<Sanosuke> Rufus sat down and started eating.

<Phoenix> Serge grabs a bowl and starts eating as well.. not having good tablemanners however

<Sanosuke> "Lina, you gonna eat with us?" Rufus asked.

<Phoenix> "Um... sure"  Lina says and serves herself.. used to getting nothing but pickings when it came to serving people

<Sanosuke> Rufus finished his food and leaned back. "You can have as much as you want Lina."

<Phoenix> Lina nods "Im used to not eating much though..."

<Sanosuke> "I don't each much either.. but if you're hungry eat."

<Phoenix> "I dont want to make myself sick..."

<Sanosuke> "Then build up your levels."

<Phoenix> "Okay..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus got up from the table and stretched. "Thanks for dinner."

<Phoenix> "Welcome"

<Sanosuke> He smiled and headed for his bedroom.

<Phoenix> Lina starts cleaning up the dishes... as Serge follows Rufus

<Sanosuke> Rufus flops down on his bed and sighs.

<Phoenix> "Whats the matter now?"

<Sanosuke> "Nothing really... I guess." Rufus stared at the ceiling.

<Phoenix> "oh...?"

<Sanosuke> "Yeah... I gues I just feel bad for those I can't save."

<Phoenix>  "Cant save em all..."

<Sanosuke> "I know..." Rufus sighed. "What can I save then?"

<Phoenix> "Save all you can.. and try not to mourn your losses too much...  although I understand your ...loss of family needs to be mourned"

<Sanosuke> Rufus rolled to his side to look at Serge. "do you have any family?"

<Phoenix> "Just my mom..."

<Sanosuke> "No father?"

<Phoenix> Serge shrugs "He died... when I was real little"

<Sanosuke> "so did my mom..."

<Sanosuke> "I suppose that makes us a lot alike in some ways..."

<Phoenix> "yeah.. but.. you know.. you cant really miss what you never had... at least... not in my case"

<Sanosuke> "I suppose not.. then tell me.. why did you join the force?"

<Phoenix> "Dont really know... just had a knack for the save the world sort of stuff.... and a constant need to weasel out info..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "Meaning you were too much of a coward for the Army?"

<Phoenix> "Hey... they woulda kicked my ass outta there as soon as I started hittin on.....'

<Sanosuke> "Yah.. i know.. they're more uptite ain't they?"

<Phoenix> "Yup... Mm.. I woulda loved the army... communal showers.. oooh... "

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "Yah... nice tight muscles..."

<Phoenix> "Ive been in a few prison showers... you know...  

<Sanosuke> "What? How come?"

<Phoenix> "Undercover stuff.. once because I really belonged there ... not having a dad... well I got into trouble a lot"

<Sanosuke> "I see... but you got straightend out so they let you in the force?"

<Phoenix> Serge nods and stretches out beside Rufus "I had the ... street sense of a troublemaker.. but the want to do good once I realized bad was... well bad"

<Sanosuke> "Good for you.. most people never learn that..."

<Phoenix> "Well I did"

<Sanosuke> "I know.. that makes you a good person."

<Phoenix> "Yeah... "  Serge says.. and nestles up against Rufus' side  "Being good isnt always easy though... lots of temptations"

<Sanosuke> "I know.. but being rich for me has negated those temptations.."

<Phoenix> "Your partner got tempted... I feel kinda bad for him"

<Sanosuke> "Me too.. but i forgive him."

<Phoenix> "Think he'll be upset if we hooked up?"

<Sanosuke> "Nah.. he's got some beutiful guy with him..."

<Phoenix> "Ahh... so he wont mind if I get friendly" Serge purrs... slipping an arm around Rufus

<Sanosuke> Rufus didn't shrug him off but also didn't match his movement.

<Phoenix> Serge just snuggles against his side.. knowing Rufus is stressed... and not wanting to push him

<Sanosuke> Rufus stared at him a while.. but he mostly just seemed to be staring into space.

<Phoenix> "Rufus... want me ta go  home?  Ya dont seem to want me here"

<Sanosuke> "no no.. stay.. please.. I'm just, thinking..."

<Phoenix> "M'kay.. just dont wanna make you unconfortable"

<Sanosuke> "I'm not.. I shouldn't be alone anyway..."

<Phoenix> Serge repositions himself... and starts to rub rufus' shoulders  "Yeah... and youre too tense to get any sleep you know...

<Sanosuke> "I know... too sad... too, wanting to know who took my brother away all those years ago and now..."

<Phoenix> "Shh... let it go right now"

<Sanosuke> "I can't... not till I find those that did this.. it's all connected to the case we're working on.. I'm sure of it... now even the FBI is a part of this..."

<Phoenix> "Rufus.. youre gonna have a heart attack..."

<Sanosuke> "I'm too young for that.."

<Phoenix> "The smoking... the not eating right.. youre a prime target"

<Sanosuke> "Well, what should I be eating?"

<Phoenix> "Well now that you got that girl you can eat right"

<Sanosuke> "Yah... Lina is watching over my health..."

<Phoenix> "I'm here too... last thing I'd wanna see is you dead"

<Sanosuke> "thanks... then we'd better be careful when we go after the SOBs respocible for all this."

<Phoenix> "We will be.. dont worry.. I know how ta fight"

<Sanosuke> "Good.. so do I..."

<Phoenix> "Get some sleep then... you never know when we're gonna hafta"

<Sanosuke> "when I can fall asleep..."

<Phoenix> "I'll help ya.."  Serge says... nuzzling at his neck

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled lightly. "Such good help too."

<Phoenix> "Hey... I can wear you out the hard way or the easy way"

<Sanosuke> "Hard way? Easy way? What do you mean by that?"

<Phoenix> "Well I know you arent ready for the hard way"

<Sanosuke> "Just tell me."

<Phoenix> "Its either sex or I can give you some of my special recipe knockout mix

<Sanosuke> "What's in this mix?"

<Phoenix> "Nothin bad... herbals"

<Sanosuke> "I'll try that."

<Phoenix> "Figured you didnt want me"  Serge teases... and goes to fish something out of his jacket... leaving the room to mix it in some hot water

<Sanosuke> "I'm just... well, after how my brother died anything like that might make me think of him..."

<Phoenix> "Im only kiddin Rufus..."  Serge calls back...  using rufus' handy instahot tap and dropping a packet in it

<Sanosuke> "Good." Rufus rolled onto his back again.

<Phoenix> Serge brings him the cup of strong smelling liquid and waits for him to sit up

<Sanosuke> Rufus did so and took it from him, starting to drink.,

<Phoenix> Serge pats him on the head and waits for him to finish

<Sanosuke> Rufus handed the cup back when he was done.

<Phoenix> Serge sets it on the nightstand and stretches out beside Rufus again

<Sanosuke> Rufus yawned, placing a hand over his mouth.

<Phoenix> Serge pulls his arms back around Rufus.. and snuggles close... knowing Rufus wont be long to the waking world

<Sanosuke> Rufus snuggled back, feeling very sleepy.

<Phoenix> Serge plays with Rufus' hair... smiling because he knows Rufus needs sleep

<Sanosuke> Rufus fell asleep, head against Serge.

<Phoenix> Serge kisses Rufus' forhead softly... and drifts to sleep with him

 

<Sanosuke> Xellos knelt down before the figure sitting in the very ornate chair.. practicly a throne.

<Phoenix> The figure on the throne sighs and a dagger whizzes through the air... imbedding itself in the wall across from the throne... there are several other daggers stuck there  showing his level of irkedness

<Sanosuke> Xellos grimaced slightly since it was a meer inch from his head. "It wasn't my fault they broke up the club..."

<Phoenix> "Whose fault was it then?"  The figure asks.. his usually hidden tail twitching slightly

<Sanosuke> "I am not sure but these cops are clever see... but there is no way they could have traced me back to you... they probably just busted the club for vice reasons...."

<Phoenix> "You are sure of this?"  He asks... leaning foreward his face unusually calm looking for how angry he is

<Sanosuke> "Oh yes.. Quite sure." He was still grimacing.

<Sanosuke> "I don't belive him one bit.." Said the other figure, leaning up against the throne thing.

<Phoenix> another dagger imbeds itself in the wall... as if in agreement

<Sanosuke> Xellos backed up slightly. "They barely knew my name.. I'm not even sure how they got it unless Reno was talking again.. blame him!!"

<Phoenix> "I want names.... of anyone... cops.. your people.. who was involved in the bust..."  Kuja growls, standing up... 

<Sanosuke> "Well, we already took care of the insurence as a warning to the father to keep his remaining son away.. he was involved after all. And then there is that other cop who's name I didn't catch with him... those were the only two I can think of."

<Phoenix> "Killing Cops is a bad idea... but ... someone has to die...  "  Kuja says... looking at Xellos thoughtfully

<Sanosuke> "You need me more then you need Reno.. he's just a drunken sex addict.. he's the one who dropped my name I bet!"

<Phoenix> "Fine then he dies... "

<Sanosuke> Xellos let out a sigh of relief.

<Sanosuke> "You shouldn't let the former priest get off so easy..." The figure who was leaning against the throne adviced.

<Phoenix> "Good help like him is hard to find.. besides... his blood isnt good enough to stain my blade"

<Sanosuke> Xellos got to his feet. "Heh heh... yeah... um.. it's too formerly pure..." he chuckled nervously.

<Phoenix> "Why dont you go find out more about those cops...  see if there is a way to punish that other one... since we've already taken the other's baby brother"  Kuja says... waving Xellos off and pulling Zidane onto his lap

<Sanosuke> Xellos departed quickly.

<Sanosuke> Zidane chuckled. "He's a pure coward at heart.. he just acts tough..."

<Phoenix> "Hmph.. yes... but he's good at running the mundane little businesses that keep us going"  Kuja says...  moving his hand down to fondle Zidane

<Sanosuke> his lap warmer purred. "Going to kill Reno now?"

<Phoenix> "Yes... you be ready when I get home dove... you know what killings do for me"

<Sanosuke> Zidane licked his lips. "Mmm yah... I'll just declothe now."

<Phoenix> Kuja purrs and lets Zidane slip off to get ready... while he takes what he calls his "ceremonial" blade from the wall 

<Sanosuke> "How do we get Reno here?"