Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, scenery, or towns; Square Enix does.
04 - Beginnings
"Sir?... Sir?... SIR!" Elena's voice finally penetrated the haze that was Tseng's thoughts. He lifted his head and found Elena kneeling directly in front of him. Rude had a hand on his right arm and was squeezing it gently.
"Yes?" Tseng said in a quiet voice.
"Are you... well Sir?" Elena asked in a shaky voice.
"What?"
"Are you well? We've been trying to get your attention for several minutes," she replied, voice full of concern.
You're losing it Tseng. You can't afford to lose it. Get control of yourself! "I am fine. What is our location?"
"We're about 10 minutes outside of Midgar, Sir."
We should probably move farther away. "How many Turks remain with Shinra?"
"Sir?" Rude this time.
"You heard me."
"Not many, Sir. You're pretty much looking at them, aside from Reno, Sir," Rude said. He looked at Elena and could see the worry written all over her face. His own worry was hidden by his glasses.
That's all of us? Elena, Rude, Reno, and myself? Leviathan help us, Tseng thought. Surely they were forgetting others. New recruits perhaps, who hadn't climbed up in the ranks enough to be noticed. Elena is a new recruit. The others aren't even close to completing training yet. It made him want to laugh, or cry. Either he could be happy that so few remained and he could keep a closer eye on them, or he could cry for the overwhelming sadness of it.
"Cissnei!" Elena exclaimed. "She's still in Midgar isn't she?"
Tseng nodded before saying, "Rude, call her and give her these coordinates, but do not say we are here. Tell her it is a highly confidential mission and no one is to know the details. She must begin the mission immediately, time is of the essence."
All of this was said in a tone totally devoid of emotion, causing Elena and Rude further concern. Sure Tseng tended to be stoic, but this went beyond that. It was a complete blankness, an all-consuming nothing. Had the recent events been too much for Tseng?
Elena broke the silence. "Should I call Reno, Sir?"
"No," was all Tseng replied. Elena and Rude were to shaken to ask further questions. Rude jumped out of the chopper to call Cissnei. Elena moved to the bench opposite Tseng, gaze swiveling between Tseng, Rude, and the city, which, a moment ago had seemed warm and inviting. Now it just seemed menacing and cold.
Less than an hour after Rude had called Cissnei, he saw a tiny, reddish chestnut haired figure approaching their location as the sun began to rise. She's too easy to spot. I'll have to talk to her about being more cautious. "Sir, I believe it's Cissnei."
Tseng picked up the binoculars he had been using to scan the area and focused on the figure. He easily recognized Cissnei. "Confirmed," he stated. He was flooded with such relief that his legs almost gave out. Thank Leviathan she's safe!
At Tseng's words, Rude relaxed his shoulders and said a thank you to the Gods. He had used the down time to reflect on the events with Reno. He was not happy with himself. He prayed, something he rarely did, that it wasn't the last time he saw Reno and that he got a chance to redeem his actions. At the very least he wanted to apologize to him, and maybe even the SOLDIER. He felt like he owed Reno more than an apology, but that's all he had right now.
After thinking the events through, Rude realized that Reno's concern for the SOLDIER had acted as a catalyst to his own emotions. Rude longed for someone to share his life with, not as comrades or work partners, but something more. He wanted a soul mate, a wife, someone who he could love and who returned that love. Hell, he wanted kids someday.
So far circumstances, his job, and his awkward personality had worked against him. He didn't begrudge his job; he loved it and wouldn't trade it for Gaia herself. He couldn't do a thing about circumstances, but he could work on his personality, come out of his shell a little.
He knew that Reno hadn't done anything to intentionally hurt him, hell; Reno didn't even know his feelings in this area. They hadn't been partnered together long enough for either one to be completely comfortable with each other outside of missions. Maybe that time would come, assuming they lived long enough, but they weren't there yet.
Rude had been jealous of Reno, but it was misplaced and unjustified jealousy. He was irritated that Reno, who wasn't seeking anyone, seemed to have someone dropped right in his lap. He might have completely misinterpreted Reno's actions, but it did seem like Reno liked the SOLDIER. Rude shouldn't begrudge him that. Gaia, knowing Reno, if anything did happen it wouldn't get far. The guy seemed to despise relationships and didn't want to be in one. He was the king of one-night-stands and loved it.
Regardless, Rude's jealously had gotten the better of him and made him angry. His control broke down and he was left drifting in bitterness, anger, jealousy, and envy. After losing his control, every little action Reno made toward the SOLDIER just heightened Rude's feelings. The emotions clouded his decisions and judgment; something he wouldn't forgive himself for anytime soon.
Rude was pulled from his thoughts by Cissnei's footsteps. "Choco Tail," she whispered, just loud enough that he could hear her.
"Ton Knife," he replied.
She melted out of the shadows and walked up to Rude. "Glad you're still here. I was afraid you'd get spooked and leave."
Rude cocked an eyebrow and asked, "How did you know we were here?"
Cissnei giggle. "I am a Turk you know. Besides, even if I hadn't known before I left Midgar, it's hard to hid that helicopter behind you."
"The second part is true. As to the first, unless you were monitoring our GPS signals, you should not have known our location before arriving here," replied Tseng from the chopper's open cargo door.
"Sir!" Cissnei said, saluting.
"No need for that. Please, answer the question," Tseng said.
"SOLDIER, Sir. Their new director told me. He also gave me this to give you," she said, holding out a manila envelope. "And... ah... I'm not alone, Sir," she said, shifting nervously.
Tseng took the envelope but stopped at the last comment. "Not alone?"
"No Sir, sorry Sir. I was asked to bring a SOLDEIR along," she turned around and warked, causing Elena, Tseng, and Rude to all raise eyebrows.
A SOLDIER was just suddenly there, about 10 feet behind Cissnei. How the hell did he pull that off? Rude thought. Tseng regarded the man apprehensively while Elena stared at him blankly. The SOLDIER was wearing SC purple, had straight, layered black hair that fell just past his shoulders, and had a broad chest and shoulders. Tseng couldn't make out his eye color, but the figure had a somewhat square face and jaw, and appeared to be in between 6'-6'2 in height. The last thing noted was the Shinra issue sword hit sticking up just past the figure's right shoulder.
"SOLDIER Second Class Angeal Hewley. I've been temporarily placed under your command Sir," the SOLDIER said, looking at Tseng.
Under my command? "I do hope you have some answers for us, Second Class Hewley," Tseng replied.
"Please, call me Angeal, Sir. I hope I can answer some of your questions. The letters in that envelope may help as well."
Tseng felt like the situation, whatever it was, had slid from worse to horrible. Having a SOLDIER under his command was unprecedented. The Turks and SOLDIER didn't do joint missions. They rarely even cooperated with each other as far as sharing intelligence. Hell, they didn't cooperate with each other at all when he thought about it. The two departments were like annoying ghosts to each other. Something like this? He had no idea how to handle the situation. Was it a trap? Was this SOLDIER sent as an informant, or worse, to slaughter them?
As if reading his mind the SOLDIER said, "Sir, I know this is highly irregular, but please, hear me out. I swear on my honor that I mean no harm to you, or your people."
Tseng sighed and glanced at each of his Turks. The SOLDIERs words struck a chord with him, though he didn't exactly know why. He did know he needed answers, and maybe even help. This SOLDIER was offering both. He didn't know if it was worth the risk, but he would accept it.
"Rude, Cissnei, in the chopper with Elena." Both Turks moved to comply. He gave the SOLDIER one final look before saying, "You too Angeal but I want this clear first, if any harm comes to us either by your hands, or because of your actions, I will kill everyone you hold dear in front of your eyes before I kill you."
Angeal fought a shiver, hearing the truth in the man's words. Though he was sincere and honorable in intent, he couldn't make promises and guarantees. He seriously didn't want to piss this guy off, but he had to say, "I will personally do nothing to you or your people. As for my actions, I have no control over others and cannot guarantee something I say or do will not be used in the wrong way. I can guarantee to watch my words and actions to reduce the chance though."
Tseng regarded the SOLDIER for a minute. He believed he was telling the truth. Furthermore, the man was being honest; he couldn't guarantee what others would, or wouldn't, do. "I understand. Come," he finally replied.
Angeal smiled and let go of some of his tension before entering the chopper. Tseng looked at him before saying, "Proper introductions, I am Tseng, that is Elena, Rude, and of course you know Cissnei." Angeal nodded to each in turn.
"Now talk," Tseng said.
"Sir I will, as soon as we are in the air," Angeal said, doing his best to appear non-threatening.
"And where are we to go, SSC Hewley?" Tseng asked suspiciously.
"Fort Condor."
"Fort Condor?" All four Turks said at once with almost identical expressions.
Angeal couldn't help but smile. Tight knit group or training? Reason aside it was creepy, but funny. "Fort Condor."
Tseng bit back a curse. "Rude, Elena..." he sighed, "take us to Fort Condor."
"Try to find a landing zone just southwest of the reactor," Angeal said.
Tseng glanced at the SOLDIER, while Elena and Rude glanced at him. "Do it," he ordered.
Angeal smiled and sat down. "After you read the letters, I'll answer whatever questions I can on the way." Tseng sat down next to him. Cissnei took that to mean the two wanted privacy, so she moved to the opposite bench and laid down as Elena and Rude powered up the chopper. Maybe she could sleep on the way, Gods knew she was tired. Fort Condor huh? Wonder if there really is a big bird on top of the reactor, she thought right before she drifted to sleep.
Genesis awoke with the sun shining directly in his eyes and the morning breeze stirring his hair. Why the hell didn't I close the window and draw the curtains, he thought, aggravated with himself. He didn't mind mornings, he just didn't like to be woken in such a manner. He shifted his position and used his right hand to readjust his pillow, except the pillow wouldn't move. What is wrong with thi-
His eyes jerked open but he quickly had to shut them again due to the bright sunlight. In those few seconds his mind ran through the previous nights events; the injured Turk, said Turk's partner, something about his PHS, and... nothing. What happened after that? Try as he might, he couldn't remember. Then something else occurred to him: that isn't a pillow...
He slowly cracked open his eyes, turned his head, and came face to chin with the injured Turk. The revelation caused him to stand too quickly and he abruptly found himself on his knees; his legs were asleep. The impact caused his head to throb. The feeling made him remember the rest of last night's events. His damned partner bashed me upside the head! His anger was quickly replaced by exasperation and humiliation. I let a fucking Turk take me down? Sweet Minerva I hope no one ever hears of this!
His stomach decided to make its presence known in such a way that he thought it flipped completely over. He managed to scramble behind the rock before heaving. He hadn't eaten since yesterday, and even then he hadn't eaten much; dry heaving was about all he could do, aside from bile. He hoped the nauseated feeling was a delayed reaction to the blow to the head. Whatever the cause, the heaving made his head pound more, which caused a groan to escape his lips.
"Ya ok back there?"
The voice made him groan again, though more out of reflex than anything. Reno's head appeared over the rock. "Heh, ya look like me after a nigh' of partyin'. "
Genesis grit his teeth together before grating out, "Shut the fuck up Turk."
"Hey now, don' need ta be rippin' my head off... damn," Reno replied before disappearing from view.
Genesis unclenched his jaw before rolling onto his back. His stomach had settled down and he hoped the worst was over. His legs had that prickling sensation they get when blood flow returns after it has been absent for a long time. The feeling made him squirm.
"Ya shouldn' do that. Migh' upset yer stomach again," Reno said.
Genesis looked back towards the rock but the Turk wasn't there. Instead the Turk approached from his feet, face appearing before the rest of his body. "Sit down. If you fall over I can't catch you right now."
"I'm touched ya care 'bout me," Reno said with a grin, right hand over his heart. "I feel better tho." To emphasize the point he stretched, promptly wincing. "Okay, mostly."
Genesis smirked at the Turk's discomfort. "Serves you right." The blood finally began flowing normally in his legs and he sat up; he wasn't willing to stand just yet. A thought occurred to him. "Where the hell is your bastard partner?"
"I'll have ya know his parents are married an' his daddy loves 'im," he said before looking around. "As to the second par', I dunno."
"You don't know?" The suspicion was thick in Genesis's voice.
"Can' say I do, no," Reno replied, shrugging his shoulders. "Maybe he wen' on ahead of us."
The suspicion went from being vocal, to clearly showing on Genesis's face. "He clobbered me and left? Didn't bother leaving a note or telling you? What the hell kind of a partner is that?"
This guy's temper is worse than a Dual Horns, Reno thought. "Chill man, maybe he jus' went fer help... or... or he's scoutin' the area."
"He could have called for help! You have my PHS! There is nothing in this area! You both found that out yesterday!" Genesis was practically yelling now. He wasn't sure if he was angry, or just really, really irritated. Either way, raising his voice wasn't a good idea. It made his head throb more and he closed his eyes to block out some of the light. At least his stomach didn't stir again.
Reno didn't know what to say. Genesis's anger was like a bomb; it kept expanding and would eventually explode. He really didn't want to be close to him when the shards flew. Lying to him didn't seem to be helping matters, so maybe he should just tell him the truth? Either way he was probably going to get hit with shrapnel. Why the hell didn't I think this through better?
Genesis finally opened his eyes and looked at the Turk. Reno seemed nervous, right hand running back and forth over the top of his head. For some reason the movement fascinated him. It made his hair shift around, but it just snapped right back into place. Surely he had to put something in it to get it to stand in all directions like that. Shouldn't that have worn off by now?
After a minute or two of staring Genesis finally said, "Look, whatever it is just tell me."
Reno stopped running his hand through his hair and looked back at Genesis. He was sitting with his legs bent in front of him, arms circling the legs. His head was lowered but not resting on his knees. The tone of voice and the posture told Reno he wasn't angry anymore, just resigned or defeated. He felt bad. Fuck, now I really don't want to lie to him. He wondered if that was the reaction Genesis had wanted, but it didn't matter now. He'd tell him the truth. The SSC would find out eventually anyway. He had just been hoping that eventually wouldn't be now, that he could ease into it. Should have known better.
"Alrigh' look. We used yer PHS ta call our boss. He brough' a chopper out, gave me a Hi-Potion n' a Potion, took Rude n' left." There, the truth.
It seemed to take awhile for Genesis to process what the Turk said. They'd called his boss, he'd come out, given Reno medicine but left him here, still injured, and taken his partner, who was mostly unharmed? Why the hell would he do that? Shouldn't he have taken them both? Maybe Reno was in trouble and this was his punishment? Gaia Turks made no sense.
He tilted his head to the right and looked at Reno. The Turk was clearly trying to decide how he was going to react. His intuition told him he was missing something. The Turk was gauging his reaction to the minor part before he dropped the major part. "And you're still here because..." At his words Reno's shoulders slumped and he looked at the ground. Definitely missing something.
"We eh, need ta talk," Reno said, looking back at Genesis. This was the part he was afraid would make the SOLDIER explode. The look in his eyes gave him hope though; he didn't look pissed, just curious.
"...Talk..." Genesis parroted, drawling the word out.
"Eh, ya, talk." Reno sucked in a breath before continuing. "Here it is. I told ya Rude n' I were on a mission. The Turks woulda taken ya inta custody to make sure ya didn' say nothin' 'bout what ya saw or what we said," he paused before adding, "make sure ya don' know nothin'. Ya follow?"
"You're saying they would have kidnapped me, possibly tortured me, just to find out if I knew anything about your mission, right?"
"Righ'."
"But I don't know anything!" That time he did yell and Reno winced. "Minerva's Gift I tried to fucking help you both and this is the fucking thanks I get from the Turks? The next time I find one of you fuckers injured and alone, I'm going to kill their ass without a second fucking thought!"
Somewhere in the middle of his rant, Genesis had gotten to his feet, though he didn't remember standing. He had also started moving closer to the Turk, who was slowly backing up in response, hands in front of his chest, palms out. The part about Reno saving him from Turk custody hadn't registered in his anger. He was seriously thinking about beating the shit out of him or worse. His right hand reached behind his shoulder for the hilt of his sword, but he only grasped air; that stopped his forward motion. My sword! Where the hell is my sword! His anger suddenly had company: panic. He spun around, hurtled the rock, and began looking for his missing weapon. He hadn't looked long before a new voice drifted to his ears.
"You won't find it."
Genesis and Reno exchanged glances before whirling towards the approaching footsteps. In that short exchange Reno saw the shear panic and terror in Genesis's eyes. Genesis had seen shock and confusion in Reno's.
"You really should keep better track of your weapon, SOLDIER," said the newcomer as he finally made the last step onto the clearing. He was wearing a standard Turk uniform with sunglasses similar to Rude's. The shades hid his eye color, but his hair was medium golden blonde and there was a cigar between his lips. A rucksack was draped over his left shoulder. What caught Genesis's attention most was that he was spinning his sword by the hilt with the fingers of his right hand. Fuck me! Not another one, Genesis thought.
"Come to take me back to your Turk friends?" Genesis snapped in an angry, corrosive tone. He tensed up and took a defensive stance, preparing for the fight he was sure was coming. The new Turk didn't move, he just stared at Genesis, grinned around the cigar, and continued to spin the weapon.
"Legend?" Reno said from somewhere behind and to Genesis's right. The word came out in an awed whisper. Shouldn't have turned my back on him, Genesis thought, completely missing Reno's tone.
"Reno," replied the newcomer, Legend apparently, with a slight nod of his head.
Suddenly Legend stopped spinning the sword and threw it towards Genesis. The action caught Genesis off-guard and he quickly backed up so as not to be run through by his own weapon. The rock caught on the back of his calves, making him lose his balance. Thankfully, he didn't go over it, just ended up sitting down rather harshly. The sword struck the ground, point-first, about two feet in front of him. It stayed there, sticking straight out of the ground, with Genesis glaring at it. I'm surprised it stuck and didn't shatter. I thought all Shinra issued swords were flimsy and a bit dull.
"Wha'... what are ya doin' here?" Reno's question brought Genesis out of his thoughts. He finally managed to hear the awe in Reno's tone and wondered if it was a good or bad thing. He also realized that if Legend had intended to kill him, he'd probably be dead already. At some point the Turk had been close enough to take his sword and neither he nor Reno had known it. His focus was severely lacking.
"I came to give you this," Legend replied, looking at Reno. He removed the rucksack from his shoulder and casually tossed it towards him.
Reno's thoughts were racing. Legend wanted to give him a rucksack? What the hell for? He was supposed to be heading back toward Midgar with Genesis, not going on a camping expedition. If he wasn't back in 24 hours Tseng was liable to murder the both of them.
"Why does your name sound familiar?" Genesis's question pulled Reno from his thoughts and made Legend shift his gaze to him.
"Because you work for Shinra," Legend replied in a nonchalant tone.
"No, it's more than that," replied Genesis, brows furrowed in thought.
"He's also known as the 'God of Death'," Reno stated.
"Reno," Legend snapped in disapproval.
Genesis's face visibly paled and he swallowed loud enough he was sure they had both heard him. If this guy had come for him he wasn't going to be kidnapped, he was going to his grave. He had heard some stories about the 'God of Death', but he'd always thought they were, well, a legend. The sound of laughter shattered the silence and made both Genesis and Reno jump. Guess Reno's focus is shot too.
"What's so funny?" Reno asked from directly behind Genesis, startling him again. When the hell did he come up behind me?
"You two. The only thing I want from you, Genesis, is for you to call Lazard. As for you, Reno, stay alive." With those words Legend turned around and began walking away.
"Wait!" Reno yelled, causing Legend to stop and partially turn. "Aren't you gonna tell us whats goin' on? Tseng is expectin' us both in Midgar soon."
Legend regarded Reno before replying. "I thought it obvious that your mission has changed. Tseng, or Rude, will be in touch soon." He turned around once again and took a few steps before saying, "Oh and Genesis? Replace the card in your PHS with the one in the bag before calling Lazard," over his shoulder. Then he was gone, leaving both Genesis and Reno in stunned silence.
After a few minutes of numb silence, Genesis finally spoke. "Reno?"
"Ya?"
"How the hell can I call someone I don't know?"
"What?"
Stupid Turk! Genesis thought, but repeated the question.
For his part, Reno gazed at the top of Genesis's head in confusion. Call someone he doesn't know? Oh wait, who had Legend told him to call? "You mean Lazard?"
"That's exactly who I mean," Genesis said.
He was still sitting, but he'd half turned so he could look at Reno. His left eyebrow was arched but aside from that, Reno couldn't read his expression. Why have I heard that name before? Reno racked his brain trying to come up with an answer but it eluded him. "Eh, well, I dunno."
Genesis started laughing and Reno jumped. He stepped away, barely keeping his balance as a rock rolled under his foot. He peered down at the SOLDIER and wondered if he'd gone mad. Genesis now had one arm wrapped around his stomach and was almost bent completely over in his laughing fit. "Ya lost it er what?" Genesis laughed harder. Reno stood frozen, looking at him in bewilderment.
After a good five minutes, Genesis straightened and wiped at the tears leaking out of his eyes. The fit had made his stomach clench, but it quickly settled back down. He glanced over at Reno, took one look at his expression, and had to fight not to start laughing again. "We... are so fucking screwed," he finally said, chuckling.
Reno's only response was to cock an eyebrow. Great, I'm trapped with an insane SOLDIER. Why didn't I leave with Tseng and Rude again? Shiva's Lips, a pretty face and I completely for- He violently shook his head, scattering his thoughts. He seriously hadn't just thought that, had he? Oh yeah, ya did, his brain supplied. He was pretty sure his own thoughts just mocked him. Maybe I'm the one with my arms out for the straightjacket.
Genesis, who hadn't noticed the parade of emotions running across Reno's face, continued where he left off. "You're to go... somewhere and stay alive, while I'm supposed to call someone I don't know. We're both ab-so-fucking-lutely screwed."
"When ya put it that way, I see yer point yo," Reno replied, starting to grin. He tried to fight it but couldn't. His bewilderment and mocking thoughts were gone, replaced by merriment. Genesis seemed to be infectious.
Genesis's eyes sparkled with laughter at the Turk's words. "Oh Goddess we're beyond screwed! We must be totally fucked since we finally agree on something," he said while laughing. This time both of them started laughing.
Once the new bout of laughter passed, Reno went to check out the rucksack Legend had left. There was a tightly wrapped blanket tied to the bottom of the bag, a canteen tied to the right side, and a small compass attached to the opening flap. He pulled the flap back and stared down at the contents. Everything was neatly organized in bags, which he began removing.
The first bag he grabbed contained two travel sized toiletry kits; each containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, a tiny bottle of shampoo and conditioner, a bar of soap, dental floss, a tiny bottle which might be shaving cream, and nail clippers. Then came a medium sized first aid kit with different sized band aids, gauze, medical tap, antiseptic, gloves, finger splints, scissors, a thermometer, a few Potion and Hi-Potion vials, two Phoenix Feathers, and other items he didn't readily recognize or couldn't get to. The next bag contained food items: protein bars, granola bars, small bags of trail mix, chips, tubes of peanuts, and even a few MRE's. The last bag had Genesis's name on it. He remember Legend saying something about a card for Genesis's PHS, so that was probably it. Big bag for a PHS card.
With the bag mostly empty, Reno noticed two small pouches at the bottom. One rattled, and one made a rustling sound as his hand closed around them and pulled them out. Upon closer inspection he found one contained kindling and the other contained gil. He didn't count the money, but it looked to be enough to last for a while. Once the rucksack was empty, he wondered how in the hell someone had managed to stuff so much shit into the bag. Better yet how was he going to repack it?
"Damn, did they kick you out of the Turks or what?" Genesis's voice floated over to him.
Reno looked at the SOLDIER and noted his curious expression. "Kinda looks that way don' it?" His voice was somber as the contents of the bag played on his mind. In order to distract his thoughts he beckoned Genesis over. "This is fer you."
Curious, Genesis left his perch on the rock and went to the Turk. Reno held two bags out to him; one had his name on it and the other contained food. "I'm not hungry."
"Eat anyway."
Genesis sighed and pulled a granola bar out of the food bag. He lowered himself to the ground, opened the wrapper, and took a bite before turning his attention to the other bag. He looked at his name, which was written in black marker on one side of the bag. I know that handwriting.
He heard a crinkling sound and glanced over at Reno. The Turk had moved directly opposite him and was munching on a protein bar. "Those things are horrid," he said, as he opened the bag in his hands.
"Ya, but they keep ya goin'."
Genesis nodded, took another bite of granola, and dumped the contents of the bag into his lap. There were two envelopes, a bangle, a ring, and an earring. He picked up the earring first to examine it. It was titanium, about 1 1/2 - 2 inches long, and had varying levels of thickness and designs from top to bottom. On closer inspection he could see runes circling the top. They were so small a normal personal probably wouldn't even see them. Curious. There didn't seem to be anything unusual about the bangle or ring, so he turned his attention back to the envelopes.
One envelope was blank on the outside, the other simply said 'Genesis' in that familiar handwriting. He reverently brushed his fingertips along the writing before opening the envelope and removing the folded paper it contained. He took a bite and read the short note: 'I know you won't trust him, so trust me instead. Reno's life, and others, may depend on it.' Below that was a phone number that he didn't recognize. His pulse sped up and his hands started to gently shake.
Reno immediately became concerned at Genesis's reaction. Shit, did someone die? He leaned forward and threw his empty wrapper into the rucksack. His voice was quiet as he asked, "Eh, everythin' ok?"
Genesis tore his gaze from the short note and looked at Reno. He was so confused, thoughts flowing faster than he could keep track. Who was he supposed to trust? How had Angeal known who Reno even was, let alone that he was with him? How was Reno's life in danger? What do I tell Reno?
His subconscious made the choice for him as he found himself holding the note out to Reno. Reno gave him a questioning look before taking it from his hand. He took the last bite of his granola bar and watched as Reno's face changed from concern to curious to startled. His eyes scanned the note again before looking at Genesis.
"Who wrote this yo?" There was a faint waver to his voice.
"SOLDIER Second Class Angeal Hewley," Genesis voice was quiet but free of emotion. He tossed his empty wrapper into the rucksack with Reno's.
"I dunno that name. You trust 'im? Who's he talkin' 'bout?" Reno rapidly questioned.
"Yes, I trust him. Angeal and I have been friends since we were born. We grew up in the same town and joined SOLDIER at the same time. I don't recognize the number," he replied. He grabbed the second envelope while saying, "May I have my PHS?"
Reno blankly stared at him for a few minutes before retrieving the device from his jacket and handing it over. Genesis shut the phone off and Reno watched as nimble fingers removed the back plate on the phone, pulled out a small card, and replaced it with the new one. I bet those fingers would feel great running over my skin, he thought before he could stop himself. Damnit there I go again! Genesis held out an empty hand in his direction. He couldn't figure out what he wanted until Genesis pointed at the note still clutched in his hand. Oh, that. He felt like an idiot as he handed the note over.
Note in hand, Genesis turned on the phone, keyed in the number, and held it to his ear. He heard ringing and impatiently waited for someone to pick up. There was a clicking sound followed by a voice.
"Deusericus."
Genesis looked at Reno while he said, "I was told to call this number."
"By whom?"
The tiny thread that was Genesis's patience snapped. "Who in the fuck are you?" He was still looking at Reno and watched as both the Turk's eyebrows rose.
There was a pause before the voice replied, "Is this Genesis Rhapsodos?"
"If it is?" Barely controlled anger rippled through his words.
"Then it's a pleasure to speak with you. I am Lazard Deusericus."
Genesis lost his anger and hunched down. He was still looking at Reno, who was leaning towards him. "Lazard?"
"Yes."
"Fine, yes, this is Genesis," he said, blowing air out of his mouth.
"I am the new Director of SOLDIER, Second Class Rhapsodos. From here on I will be handling mission assignments, public relations, coordinating the department, and other matters," Lazard said.
A SOLDIER Director? Why hadn't he heard anything about this? Goddess he'd been gone less than 24 hours! "Oookkkkkaaay, why the cloak and dagger shit?"
"There is a dire situation within the company. The card which you were given negates the GPS function, making your location untraceable as well as encrypting all communications. I do hope you are using it. I will give a full explanation later, for now please just trust me," Lazard calmly replied. Genesis could hear him whispering before Lazard said, "Please hold."
Genesis scowled. He knew there was a 'situation', but he didn't trust easily, for any reason. He heard the phone click as though he was put on hold. After a moment the phone clicked again and Lazard said, "Go ahead."
"Gen?"
"'Geal?" He sat upright at the sound of his friend's voice.
He heard Angeal chuckle before replying, "It's good to hear your voice. I was worried when you didn't come back last night."
Genesis's only reply was a groan.
"It's ok. I know it's not your fault, though you could have called," Angeal said, slight scorn in his voice.
"Kind of hard to do when one Turk demands your PHS and the other wants to touch the inside of your skull with his fist." Just thinking about Rude pissed Genesis off and he shot a scowl at Reno.
"Ya did break my nose," the Turk said in an indignant voice at the same time Angeal said, "Wait, what? No one told me that."
Genesis said, "Shut up Turk," before telling Angeal, "Nothing I couldn't handle. Is Lazard really the new director of SOLDIER?"
"Yeah. Look I know you don't trust him Gen, so trust me. Something's going down with the Turks and you managed to land right in the middle of it. They need your help, our help," Angeal said in a too serious voice. Before he could say anything Angeal continued. "This is a conference call and I'm with a group of Turks right now. We'll probably run into each other soon ok?"
Genesis looked at the Turk in front of him. On the surface Reno simply looked like he was tired. Looking closer he could tell some of the Turk's confidence was gone, replaced by wariness and nervousness. His eyes looked haunted, like someone who had seen too much, too quickly and either didn't know how to deal with it, or hadn't had the time to deal with it. Reno noticed him looking, leaned back, crossed his arms defensively, and quirked an eyebrow. Genesis looked away.
"Gen, you still there?" came Angeal's voice through the phone.
Genesis shook himself. "Yeah I'm here. Be careful. Hopefully I'll see you soon."
"That's my Gen," Angeal said in a cheerful voice. "Oh, I hope you like the earring. I had it specially made. I was going to give it to you when we both made SOLDIER First Class but hey, emergencies are more important. I'll just have to think of something else for our promotion."
Genesis picked up the earring and squeezed it in his hand. Angeal had it made for him? He smiled. "It's perfect 'Geal. What do the runes do?"
"They give you a magic boost when the earring is equipped, a good boost too so don't lose it! I'll talk to you later. Take care of yourself," Angeal replied.
Genesis heard the phone click and knew Angeal had disconnected, leaving him with Lazard. "You're helping then?" the new Director asked.
"Sounds that way. What do you want me to do?"
"Right now just stay with Reno and keep him safe. Get as far away from the crash site as you can by nightfall. Use the accessories and money as you both see fit. Head toward Junon, unless I call and tell you otherwise. If you don't hear from me, call me before you get too close to the city for a report. If you need supplies before Junon, leave Reno somewhere safe and enter the town alone. You're not wanted, he is," Lazard replied.
Shit, he's a wanted criminal? he thought but said, "Alright I got it. What about his partner? And the other Turks?"
Reno perked up at those words. He gave Genesis such a pleading, lost look that it clawed at his heart. He wanted to make that look go away.
"We're aiding them as well," Lazard said.
"Can we contact them?"
There was a pause before Lazard finally said, "Wait until nightfall, unless they contact you first. I've sent new PHS cards to them but I do not know if Angeal has installed them. At the moment, I'm afraid their location can be traced and their calls monitored. If you are in contact now, there is a risk of you being discovered through them. I do not want to take that chance."
"Alright," he said, sighing. Reno apparently didn't like his reaction and drew away again. "Wait you just linked Angeal into our call and he said he was with them."
"Indeed," Lazard replied. "I know his PHS is safe. It's not just the phones SSC Rhapsodos. They are likely tired and strung out. Let things sink in for a bit."
"Oh alright," Genesis snapped. "Have them get in touch then."
"Thank you. Until later," Lazard said, ending the call.
Genesis closed the phone and looked at Reno. He was stretched out, laying half on his back, half on his right side, and using his right arm to prop up his upper half. He was focused intently on his hands, which were just above his waist. He was looking at his fingertips like they were the most fascinating thing on the planet. Genesis was trying to think of what to say when he spoke.
"So, jus' how screwed are we yo?"
I'm not, but you are, Genesis thought. "Nothing we can't handle."
"We?" Reno made it a question and finally raised his head.
The hope Genesis saw in Reno's eyes tightened his throat. He smiled and said, "We."
Reno's emotions were on a roller coaster ride. He'd only heard half the conversation, but what he heard didn't sound good. Gaia couldn't he get a break? The last few days had been horrid, with no down time, and here he was, smack in the middle of another mess; an unknown one at that. It's not just you, you self-centered bastard, he thought. It's all the Turks. If possible he felt worse than before after his mental scolding.
When he heard Genesis wasn't going to leave him, relief pulled itself out of Reno's tangled emotions and rose to the surface. It wasn't like he couldn't handle himself, but he could admit, to himself anyway, that he didn't want to be left alone. He figured his own thoughts would make him go mad if that happened. Besides, as temperamental as Genesis was, he enjoyed having the company. He wasn't a natural loner and took comfort from simply having others around him, even if they didn't know him that well, or at all.
"So... what now yo?"
"First things first," he said, causing Reno to cock an eyebrow. He bent his head and took the small, silver hoop earring out of his ear, replacing it with the new one. Once done, he straightened his head and felt a brief tingling sensation. Good boost is right, he thought, scowling. Angeal had probably spent entirely too much on it. He'd have to give him something in return.
"I don' thin' now's the time fer fashion yo," Reno said.
Genesis scowled harder. He shook his head and felt the earring swing, gently tugging his earlobe; he loved it. He looked at his old earring and didn't know what to do with it. He had purchased it in a fit of rebellion and it had given him confidence for reasons he didn't understand. He didn't just want to throw it away. He held it out to Reno, who raised an eyebrow in response.
"My ears ain't pierced," Reno stated.
"An easy fix," Genesis said. He grabbed the first aid kit and found a package of five sterile needles, probably used for sewing wounds closed but they would do. He pulled one out of the pack, grabbed a couple sterile alcohol wipes, and started towards Reno on his knees.
Reno's eyes widened when he realized what Genesis intended to do. "Yo, you are not gonna jab a hole in my ear!" he said, scooting backwards a little.
Genesis stopped and tiled his head to the left, "Why not?"
"Fer starters it ain't clean out here," Reno replied. Genesis held up the alcohol wipes. He had started out with a small grin, which now shifted to an evil smirk as Reno talked. Reno didn't like that one bit and he swallowed rather loudly. "Don' we have other things ta worry 'bout?"
Genesis continued to smirk and said, "Don't like needles, Reno?"
"I didn' say that yo!"
"Not with words, no. No Turk is afraid of a little pain, so that's not the problem. We have everything we need to clean and disinfect the area, so it's not that. As for our situation, we have a few minutes. And you can't think of another excuse, or a good one for that matter, so it's the needle," Genesis said, dangling the needle from his fingers.
Reno swallowed again. He felt backed into a corner. He'll think I'm a coward if I don't let him do it! Damn him! Suddenly being alone didn't sound like the worst thing in the world. Truth was, he really didn't like needles, but he wasn't going to admit that to Genesis. Rude had taken him with him when he'd gotten one of his piercings. He'd tried to get Reno to pierce something and, well, it hadn't ended well. Rude thought the whole thing was hysterical; Reno hadn't.
He finally gathered his courage, glowered at Genesis and said, "Alrigh' yo, get it over with." To Reno, the smile Genesis gave as he closed the distance was purely sadistic.
"Which ear?"
"Uuhhh, left?"
Genesis nodded and finished closing the distance. He was on Reno's right side so he swung his right leg over Reno's outstretched ones to get his left side. The movement left him straddling the Turk. Since he was still on his knees, his head was slightly above Reno's, who was staring at his chest. It was different looking down at someone, even a little; most were taller than himself. He had to admit the view wasn't too bad. Reno slowly raised his head until their eyes met and he changed his vote on the view. Not too bad? Hell the view's great.
Reno stayed motionless as Genesis straddled him. His nervousness completely evaporated and his pulse sped up. He didn't move, figuring he'd make Genesis fall, but Genesis stayed where he was with Reno eye level with his chest. He waited for a few seconds but Genesis still didn't move. Finally he looked up at him and froze. It wasn't Genesis that made him freeze, his expression puzzled Reno but not enough to really bother him. The problem was he suddenly didn't trust himself.
If he moved, he couldn't guarantee he'd be able to control his body. Reno was fighting not to lean forward and find out if those lips were as soft as they looked. To keep from raising his hand and running it through that silky hair. To not trace his fingers lightly over the features before him like a blind man trying to memorize a face.
To make matters worse, he was overwhelmed with conflicting feelings. Was it so bad he found the guy attractive? No. Was it bad he was reacting this way? Maybe. Why was he reacting this way? Need to get laid? Is that really it? I don't think so. He'd been with guys before. Not going there. Even so, it wasn't that bad was it? No. He didn't do relationships. Who said anything about a relationship? Genesis might react badly and he needed him. He's not movin-... I need him? Only for the mission. Yeah, sure. He felt like he was going to crack if Genesis didn't move soon. But you don't really want him to move, so crack.
He was about to shift positions when Genesis finally moved. He simultaneously twisted his right knee and swung his left leg into the air, bringing it over Reno's legs in a fluid movement. He ended up slightly facing Reno's left side. Reno let out a breath that he hadn't been aware he was holding.
His head had followed Genesis's movements, but the SOLDIER wasn't looking at him. In fact, Reno thought he was being very careful not to look at him. He was currently opening one of the little wipe packages, head down, face covered by his hair.
During Reno's internal conflict, Genesis had been experiencing his own. Contrary to popular opinion he didn't sleep around. He was flirty sometimes, but it was just part of his personality. Angeal had told him he was naturally mischievous. Whatever the cause, it had gotten him into trouble on more than one occasion. Thankfully nothing had gone too far, but there were a few close calls. He didn't want a repeat of prior experience with the Turk, yet he couldn't seem to help himself. This isn't like anything before, don't compare. The thought made him jerk his head up and his eyes locked onto the Turk's.
Reno swallowed his heart before saying, "Eh, somethin' wrong?"
Genesis didn't move, just kept looking at him. It took him a minute to register that the Turk's lips had moved. "I'm sorry, what?"
"Is somethin' wrong?"
Get a grip Genesis, he thought. He remembered the supplies in his hand and immediately his mood lifted. "No, just wondering how big of a baby you're going to be."
Reno cocked an eyebrow. Why would I be a ba- shit! He'd forgotten all about Genesis wanting to drive a needle through his ear. The eyebrow lowered as he scowled. He started to reply, but the words were wiped from his brain as he felt a cool wetness on his ear and he laughed.
It was Genesis's turn to raise an eyebrow. "That tickles?"
"Yeh, kinda."
Genesis chuckled before leaning forward and blowing gently on Reno's ear to dry it faster. Whatever thoughts Reno had left were completely obliterated. His eyes closed and he shivered before he could stop himself.
Genesis watched the Turk and a thrill went through him. Reno's reaction filled him with immense delight. He reached over, unwrapped the needle, positioned it, and pushed it through the Turk's ear. Reno didn't even react and Genesis was even more delighted; he hated hurting people he cared about. The thought sobered him. Until that second he hadn't realized he'd actually cared about Reno; he'd thought he was just attracted to him and along for the ride. Attraction didn't explain his earlier feelings though. He smiled. I do care about him. For better or worse, Reno was now on his short list of those he considered friends.
"You can move now, ya know," Genesis spoke aloud. Did I just say ya? It made him laugh.
Reno opened his eyes and tilted his head toward Genesis. "What, ya change yer mind or somethin'?" The comment made Genesis laugh again and Reno brought his hand up to his ear. His fingers found the needle sticking through his earlobe. Holy shit, when did he do that? He wiggled the needle and found it didn't hurt at all. He broke into a grin, eyes finding Genesis's. "I didn' even fell ya do that yo."
Genesis's grin matched Reno's. "Guess you aren't afraid of needles after all."
"Eh, 'bout that... I... am, actually," Reno said.
Genesis's eyes went wide. "What? Then why didn't you sa- why did you let me do that?"
Reno couldn't help but laugh at Genesis's reaction. "Ya'd think I was a coward if I hadn'."
"There are other ways you could have proved you aren't a coward!"
"Maybe, bu' what's done is done, righ'?" Reno replied, still grinning.
Slowly Genesis started to smile again. "You're insane, you know that?"
"I've been told that before yo."
They looked at each other, both sets of eyes shining with amusement. Genesis broke the trance first, still smiling. "All that's left is to remove the needle, replace it with the earring, and clean the area again."
Reno nodded and had a thought, "Wai', how come Potions n' Materia don' close earring holes? Make 'em grow closed?"
"Magic," Genesis said, wiggling his fingers towards Reno. The Turk laughed and he continued, "Most earrings and body rings are spelled so Potions and Materia don't affect the area of whatever they're run through; the immediate area anyway. Didn't they teach you that in Turk school?"
Reno raised an eyebrow. "Turk school? Ha! We ain't got no school," he said, sticking his tongue out.
Genesis chuckled and held the earring in his fingertips. "Do you want to do it, or do you want me to?"
"You."
Genesis nodded and moved closer to the Turk again. He gently pushed the needle toward Reno's head until it was free of his ear. He then placed the earring through the hole and fastened it in place. Finally he picked up the second wipe, opened it, and cleaned both the earring and Reno's earlobe. This time the Turk didn't shudder, but he did close his eyes. Finished, Genesis moved in front of Reno to inspect his handiwork.
"It looks good," he said smiling.
Reno opened his eyes and felt his new accoutrement. "It tingles," he said, looking at Genesis.
Genesis didn't seem surprised and nodded. "It's healing the edges of the hole. In an hour it will be completely healed. You'll be able to remove the earring and everything like you've had it for years. No chance of infection either."
"Ya coulda told me that earlier, ya know," Reno replied in a playful voice.
Genesis nodded again, smile growing larger. "I could have, but it wouldn't have been as fun."
"Sadist," Reno replied.
"Sometimes." Genesis's eyes were twinkling again. He sighed and looked Reno straight in the eyes. "This has been immensely amusing, but we should pack everything up and get moving. We're bound to find more entertainment along the way."
There was a little glint in Genesis's eyes that Reno couldn't identify. He nodded and said, "Better not keep it waitin' then yo." Maybe exile won't be so bad after all.