Tseng

"Over there," Marlene said.

She pointed with one small arm. Then she stood up, moving to show Aerith, when the door to the bar opened. Aerith froze, before remembering to duck to try and hide behind the bar.

A familiar figure stood in the doorway. It was Tseng, the leader of thr Turks who'd been trying to get her back to Shinra her whole life. Immaculately suited, unflinching, unblinking.

"You've led us on a merry chase, Aerith," he said.

She shrunk down lower. Yes, she was all too aware of that, it had been the Turks in Wall Market that had started this conga-line of humiliation. She looked around the bar nervously.

Marlene crouched, hiding behind her butt from the stranger. Aerith's mind raced.

"Before you say another word, know that your options are limited," Tseng said.

Aerith reluctantly had to agree. the Turks wanted her back at Shinra, but that was also because they wanted her to show them the Promised Land, which meant she'd need to willingly return and help them. They couldn't drag her back by ****, as countless visits from Reno and Rude attested.

But desperation was another matter. Under a plate that was going to fall, with a girl she wanted to protect...

"We can make a deal. If I go with you," Aerith said, stammering. "Will you take the girl somewhere safe?"

She was much less self-assured than she wanted to be.

Tseng smiled. He took a step to the side, leaving the way open for her to leave the bar. Thankfully his chopper had landed not far outside, limiting the need for any more naked running through the Sector.

"And can I bring an apron?" Aerith said hopefully.

She looked towards where Marlene had pointed, hoping she'd be able to quickly spot one. No such luck. Then there was another boom outside, and a crackle from Tseng's comm.

"I very much doubt there's the time for that," Tseng said. "Are you coming with us?"