Title :: Power Play
Authors :: AlexJ69 (Genesis), Whiskeyn (Rufus)
Pairing :: Genesis/Rufus
Rating :: NC-17 overall
Warnings :: jailbait!Rufus, UST, language, violence, fluff
Summary :: Lazard gives Genesis a mission that Genesis believes is beneath him, and he goes straight to the young vice president to appeal it. Adapted from our RP, part 4 of many.
Rufus blushed to the roots of his hair, turned, and immediately left his office. Ten minutes later he returned with wet hair and decidedly different clothes. He had chosen a black turtleneck and kept his usual white slacks for contrast, but the jacket was missing. He looked his age, though perhaps a little bit on the small side. He wore cologne. "Better?"
"Much." Genesis winked at the boy, amused by how easy it was to cause a blush. The next few minutes had the two boarding one of Shinra's private choppers. An hour later, they arrived in Northern Corel.
Genesis had taken part of the flight time to truly study the boy, and seeing as how the words "Genesis" and "discreet" didn't belong in the same sentence, the red-head was obviously staring. The SOLDIER was memorizing the young vice president. The kid was stunning; his profile alone inspired poetry. Soft, pale skin that could use some time outdoors covered a slim lanky frame. Round sky-blue eyes that could see into the depths of people managed to innocently mesmerize. Full, pouty kissable lips stirred a longing to taste them again. Gleaming sun-spun golden strands framed a strong aristocratic forehead and jaw line; there was no denying that the boy was a Shinra. The golden boy was, on the whole, a package of perfection. If Genesis fell in love with looks alone, he'd already be head over heels for Rufus. However, the auburn-haired warrior needed more than looks... though they definitely helped a potential lover's cause.
Rufus could always tell when people were staring at him-it was certainly something he had gotten used to-and he couldn't say he was displeased with Genesis' appraisal of his form. Having those eyes on him only fueled the fire that had started with teasing his brother and remembering every second of his previous encounter with Genesis. The SOLDIER had been surprisingly quiet during the helicopter ride, either gazing at Rufus or staring out the window poetically, one hand constantly on the magnificent sword he always carried with him. Rufus felt himself fill with a strong desire to see that sword in action, to see gloved knuckles gripping the hilt tightly, as the blade glowed red like blood, like arousal. He wanted to see Genesis strike, taunt, parry, feint, leap, and dive. He wanted to see his auburn hair dripping with sweat, his eyes glowing with bloodlust, his muscles taut with strain. Genesis would shed that gorgeous trench before he fought, or would he? Rufus couldn't decide whether he wanted the man shirtless or not. Everything looked incredible on Genesis.
He glanced down and saw those kinky knee-high boots, and pictured Genesis leaping gracefully, swinging that beautiful weapon with footwork so quick it made Rufus' head spin. He wanted to see Genesis in action… badly. Blushing, he wondered how he could convince Genesis to show off for him. He had no idea what the Gold Saucer was like; surely there wouldn't be an excuse for Genesis to pull out that sword? It was taunting Rufus. The memory of his erotic dream tormented him, and he crossed his legs to hide his erection, staring pointedly at the SOLDIER, who was thankfully still looking out the window. Rufus' lips burned with the desire to kiss him, and he found himself drifting deeper and deeper into thought, until the chopper landed with a whomp! and he was jolted out of his daydream, confused, dazed and aroused.
As soon as the two stepped out of the helicopter, Genesis could feel Rufus' excitement. It was a palpable aura that surrounded the teen, a living force that Genesis could almost touch. But when young Mr. Shinra's expression dulled with disappointment upon encountering nothing more than a small mining town, Genesis thought for a moment that his heart would break. "Hey, cheer up. We're almost there." He ruffled his fingers through blond hair, more in the manner of a father or brother, and not in the way a date would.
He knew he probably should have been irritated by the head pat, but Rufus felt himself wanting those hands on him so badly that it didn't matter. Gods, the evening hadn't even started and all he wanted was sex. Chill out, Shinra, he muttered to himself, as he followed Genesis. You're too important politically to succumb to stupid teenage hormones.
Not allowing for too much intimacy yet, Genesis let his hand fall lightly on Rufus' arm, leading him to the cable car that would take them to the entrance of the Saucer. He couldn't wait to see the look on the boy's face when the kid first got a look at the place. Hmm, I must make sure to win him a prize or something. I bet he'd like that. Genesis realized with a start that he had no idea what the boy would like. A Cactuar plushy? Yeah, that's really Rufus' style, he thought sarcastically, rolling his eyes at his inner monologue.
Rufus wasn't quite sure yet how he felt about that hand on his arm. On the one hand, Rufus didn't need or want to be led around like a child. On the other hand, Genesis was tall and imposing, and seemed to be a good leader. Rufus didn't mind following others occasionally, so long as they weren't complete dolts like his father. He preferred to be in charge, of course, and he was a bit of a control freak, but something about Genesis' flashy spectacle of a personality made him want to be the one watching instead of the one acting. Plus, he'd never been around here before-hell, he couldn't even remember the last time he left Midgar-and so following Genesis around seemed normal, comfortable.
Once they were in the cable car, Genesis decided that he should probably start fishing around for some interests of the adorable blond. "So, Mr. Shinra," he flashed a genuine smile, "tell me a little about yourself. What are some of your likes and dislikes? Hobbies?" The SOLDIER marveled at the fact the he actually wanted to know the answers. "Other than blowing daddy's money and being a stuck-up snob, that is." He couldn't help himself from adding that last quick clip. Yeah, annoying his date could definitely become a favorite pastime. He wanted to get to know the boy sitting across from him, if for no other reason than to find ways to irk him. Genesis laughed light-heartedly to himself.
"I'm not a stuck up snob," Rufus protested. "I'm classy and refined. You, on the other hand, are a bona fide drama queen. You're very nouveau-riche, Genesis. All flash and sparkle and pomp and circumstance." He said it as if he thought it were an insult, as if the attention-grabbing antics didn't impress him in some way in the back of his mind.
Genesis' mouth dropped. Drama queen? He was no drama queen. He held one arm out, and swung it around animatedly as he spoke. "Well..." Genesis' face was turning the color of his hair. "You are a power hungry, spoiled bitch." Then, deciding on a real insult, he quickly added, "…And you can tell you totally dye your hair." Genesis had made that last part up, of course, but it sounded good. Wow, this is fun. The SOLDIER was starting to like Rufus even more.
Rufus snorted. "Funny, one would think that you of all people would have found evidence that I'm a natural blond." His eyes glanced down at his crotch and back up at Genesis, and he smirked.
The two were standing a few feet apart, so Genesis took a step closer to the natural blond, his own eyes now on the center of Rufus' pants. "You know, Mr. Vice President, I don't recall my eyes paying much attention, since my hand was in the way." He smirked back. "However, if you would like to show me again – just so I can be one hundred percent positive – I wouldn't mind." He felt his cheeks flush with heat, and his heart skipped. Then he turned away. He swore to himself that he wasn't going to move fast. And that was way too fast, and a little over the line. "I'm sorry." He moved to his seat. "Please, tell me of your interests."
As he sat down in the cable car, Rufus found himself surprised at his date's sudden change of behavior, but tried his best to answer Genesis' question. My likes and dislikes? he thought to himself. He didn't think about those much, though he did remember thinking about them when he got the flowers. "Um..." he began. "I like fighting and battles. I like Dark Nation-he's my guard dog. He looks imposing, but he's a teddy bear if you know how to treat him. ... I like the Turks." He blushed at the admission. "I like weapons, especially guns, especially big ones. I've never seen anyone use a sword, though... maybe I'd like those, too." He glanced longingly at Rapier. "I don't like people telling me what to do. I don't like Lazard, the prissy bastard. And I hate my father." Rufus was shocked. Why was he telling Genesis these things? Didn't he know that Genesis could use such information against him?
Genesis' brow furrowed, and he narrowed his eyes suspiciously. Rufus had just blurted out his inner feelings toward two of the most important figures of Shinra's governing body. He wasn't sure what to say to that. He really did feel honored that Rufus was opening up this way, but his date had always struck him as a very guarded person who usually kept to himself, not someone who just voiced his emotions on a whim. He went back over Rufus' words in his head. Was it possible that the reason the vice president was revealing these intimate details was because he was crushing on him? Or was there something else? Genesis pondered the pause before Rufus spoke; the boy had had to think about what it was he enjoyed, and most of it pertained to violence. Was it that the only people Rufus had in the entire world that he liked were the Turks? That made sense. Oh, and his dog, let's not forget about the beast with the tentacle on its back. Genesis felt his heart sink. Gaia, the boy must be so lonely. Genesis feared that if he didn't stop thinking about it, he would cry.
The SOLDIER stood. He had noticed Rufus eyeing his baby, and maybe if he showed some sign that he had been paying attention, really listening to the boy, then he might be able to win Rufus' trust. It never hurt to have such powerful allies. The commander's hand went to his hip, and he unsheathed Rapier. He flicked his wrist, and held it out to the vice president, handle first. The delight that manifested on Rufus' features was so beautiful that Genesis decided right then and there that what he would do for Rufus, other than pester the hell out of him, was make sure that that look was on his face as often as humanly possible. "Its light weight makes it faster and easier for us smaller guys to handle."
Rufus' eyes widened. Was he... was he asking him to touch it, hold it? Rufus had never held a sword before. His father thought that they were antiquated and useless, a remnant of a day without Mako and modernity and the Shinra Company, despite being proven wrong by many of the best SOLDIER First Classes, including the great General Sephiroth himself. Lazard liked swords, of course, but it wasn't as if he owned any, having no idea how to use them, and even if he had, he surely wouldn't have let Rufus play with them. Lazard was such a kind brother in that regard, Rufus thought bitterly. Rufus nervously reached for the sword with his right hand, feeling himself tremble slightly. The weapon was beautiful, and surely the swordsman even more so. Shinra, what the fuck are you thinking? First you tell him your life story, and then... His thoughts trailed off as he took the hilt in his hand. An immediate rush of adrenaline coursed through him. It was as if Rapier were alive in his hand, alive and breathing, with blood pumping through it. Rufus realized quickly what the sensation was-Lifestream energy, of a much purer and less detectable kind. Certainly not the sort his father mined for gil. It made Rufus feel physically stronger.
Rufus took a step back, and slowly turned the sword over in his hand, examining it, feeling its weight, marveling in the length of the blade and how gracefully it moved, as well as that strange energy that made him almost feel as if the sword liked him. Gods, he wanted one. And even more, he wanted to see Genesis use it. Surely the man could do its beauty justice. Rufus felt at once like a child and a man-a child because he couldn't yet wrap his head around the principles of sword work, a man because when he held Rapier in his hand, he felt powerful. He felt invincible. Rufus looked up at Genesis with childlike wonder and an unspoken thank you.
As soon as Rufus had taken the sword, Genesis was at his side. The shining red object was his darling, his first love, and he didn't want Rufus to hurt her. Yes, the commander could be a little ridiculous when it came to the weapon, but she was his baby. He kept close to the executive as the sword was admired and fondled almost with as much respect as he showed her. "I call her Rapier," he announced proudly.
He was suddenly aware of his proximity to the second in command of the most powerful political structure in the world. Genesis loved men with power. And not only those of physical power like his on-again, off-again silver general. The ability to bankrupt your competition with but a phone call was also real power. Watching Rufus wield the blade, Genesis couldn't help but wonder, Is everything this man does sexy? When did he start referring to Rufus as a man? He needed to focus before his hand ended up sliding through golden silk and his lips ended up sucking hungrily at possibly unwilling ones. "So is that 'teddy bear' you call Dark Nation the bodyguard you were going to get to kick my ass?" He figured some light teasing would draw his mind away from wanting to touch his date.
Rapier... It even had a name, and a gender, though perhaps a counterintuitive one, given the shape of the object in question. Rufus wondered immediately why his handgun didn't have a name. He'd have to think on it some more. Then Genesis' voice startled him out of his reverie, and he handed the sword gingerly back to its owner, who sheathed it proudly. Damn, he wanted one of those.
Rufus glared at Genesis in mock-fury at the question. "No," he retorted. "You'd probably scare the damn dog away with... Rapier," he remembered the name of the sword, glowing a bit at the memory. "I was talking about Tseng." He blushed involuntarily and his eyes darted downward and over to look at anything that wasn't Genesis' teasing smile.
Genesis appreciated that the Rufus had remembered his most treasured object's name; however, the mentioning of the Turk's name overshadowed that feeling. Then the kid actually blushed, while thinking about the Wutaian, while on a date with him. Rufus was un-fucking-believable!
"Rufus," Genesis laughed. "Do you honestly think Tseng could take me?" The SOLDIER tried to picture Tseng trying to take a swing at him, then just shook his head. It would be rather amusing; he might try to goad the Turk into doing it one day. "What do you find so interesting about that guy anyway?" They could hear cheerful music playing in the distance.
A burst of memories flooded Rufus' head. One was himself at ten years old, down in the Turks' shooting range tucked neatly in between Tseng's arms, as the man stood behind him, steadying the gun his father had given him as a birthday present that year. Another memory of his first trip out of the Shinra building and into the world, in a disguise that the Turks had created for him, as he took in the sights and sounds and smells of the dingy industrial complex he called a home. Coming-of-age discussions he really should have had with his father instead. Learning that Lazard was his half-brother, a fact that President Shinra had almost fired Tseng for disclosing.
Rufus realized quickly that almost every memory he had involved Tseng somehow. It both filled him with warmth and pained him. Did he care for Tseng because of who Tseng was, or because he was all Rufus had ever known?
Who was the mysterious Wutaian bodyguard his father had assigned him? Did he leave his home country with tears or was he exiled? Did he find opportunity in Midgar, or despair? Was he bilingual? How old was he? Rufus realized that he had no answer to most of these questions, and shortly after that, that he honestly had no idea who Tseng even was. He had no answer for Genesis, and it bothered him. Couldn't he at least come up with something? Couldn't he at least lie?
"I like feeling safe," was the best thing he could come up with. "I've never seen Tseng lose a fight. I've never seen him get hurt. He must be really brave." Must be? Why didn't Rufus know for sure? Why was it that the one person Rufus thought he had in life, the one person Rufus thought he knew better than anyone else… why was it that Rufus didn't know him at all? And now, it was making him look like a fool in front of Genesis, whom he really did want to impress. "Can we just go inside now?" he pleaded, wanting the conversation over with as soon as possible. Rufus felt humiliated, and he wished he could sink into the floor, or at least take back the comment, or something. It was a revelation that made him more of an adult, and it was necessary, but his heart felt sick with pain. He had been so sure that Tseng was close to him, but it wasn't until now that Rufus realized how isolated he was from any real human relationships.
Genesis didn't know how to feel about that statement. "I like feeling safe," Rufus had answered. It wasn't what the commander had been expecting. Rufus was looking very insecure at the moment, almost lost, and very small. The taller man felt a compulsive desire to pull the blond into his arms and whisper that he could make him feel safe too. Rhapsodos couldn't help but question how bad Shinra had been hurt to have to look to the Turk for complete safety. He sighed softly and let the subject drop.
The first thing that Rufus would notice was the bright neon lights, the throngs of visitors and the array of costumed people milling around the entrance. The doors to the car opened, and Genesis allowed his date to exit first. The conversation they had in the transport could continue later. Right now, Genesis wanted to watch the wonder cross Rufus' face as he took in all that was the Gold Saucer.
Rufus' eyes widened, and he almost forgot everything he had just been thinking about. It was... well, pure sensory overload was what it was, really. So much loud music and flashing lights... and laughter. Rufus didn't hear laughter very often; home and work were inextricably entwined in his life, and the sound felt almost whimsical, as lyrical as the music. He felt a smile engulf his delicate features. People were happy here. No doubt it was because some of them were drunk and most of them were rich, but happiness of any kind wasn't really something Rufus was used to seeing on such a grand scale, even if it was transient, hedonistic happiness.
Rufus caught the faint smell of cigarette smoke and cotton candy; the first smell he was used to, because Reno was practically a chain smoker, but the other smell was reminiscent of a childhood he had never experienced. He knew that this was a date, but surely Genesis wouldn't mind indulging him? Surely Genesis could see that Rufus had had a bizarre upbringing that hadn't made sense? Rufus wondered if Genesis had the same experience. He'd have to ask him later. "What... where are we going?" Rufus asked. He wanted Genesis to lead, since he'd been here before, and since he'd asked Rufus on the date. ... That's right, this was a date, wasn't it? Did that mean they should hold hands or something, like they did in movies? Perhaps it was practical to hold hands; there were an awful lot of people here and Rufus didn't want to get lost. He grabbed Genesis' gloved hand and clung to it. It was much larger than his, strong, weathered. Battle-worn.
Genesis couldn't have been more surprised at Rufus taking his hand than if his soon to be lover had taken a cup of hot chocolate and thrown it in his face. He figured the boy would have a problem with public displays of affection. Well, they were only holding hands. But Genesis was Genesis, and instead of just cupping palms together, he interlaced their fingers. A small act of intimacy on his part, nothing too fast.
While they waited in line to get their entry tickets, Rufus could tell they were getting stares, but all eyes seemed to be on Genesis. A group of girls around Rufus' age were blushing, pointing and giggling. The SOLDIER First didn't even seem to notice. He was too used to this sort of attention by now. The girls came to a unanimous decision, and approached the pair.
Genesis felt Rufus tense, and he gave the vice president's hand a reassuring squeeze. The commander flashed the fangirls a smile. "Hello, ladies."
The leader of the pack, a bleach-blond wearing too much make-up, squealed obnoxiously. "Oh my gods, you're Genesis Rhapsodos!" She looked as if she may have a heart-attack. "Can we get your picture and autograph?"
Genesis nodded, eating the attention up. "Of course."
Genesis drew Rufus up beside him, and posed for the picture with the girls, then signed papers they were shoving in his face. Of course this had gathered a crowd. It took the pair over an hour just to get their tickets and get through the gate. "Sorry, I guess I should have warned you about that," Genesis told Rufus once they were inside the park. "So, what would you like to do first?"
They were inside a circular room, rainbow colored teleports all around them, a glowing map in the middle. Over each gateway was a sign indicating where they were going. "Well, we have games, rides, food, shows." He kept a firm grip on Rufus' hand.
Rufus had no idea what he wanted to do. He was still tense over the attention. Who the fuck were those girls, anyway? And why had Genesis made sure to tuck him under his arm, even in the pictures? Rufus felt his face burn. Now a bunch of stupid fangirls were going to have pictures of Shinra's vice president being practically joined at the hip with Genesis. That wasn't to say that he hadn't liked being next to Genesis... oh, to the contrary. Being pulled into that half-hug had given him goosebumps, especially when Genesis was so warm and his arm felt so strong wrapped around Rufus, keeping him safe from the crazy girls, the crazy environment. ... Keeping him safe.
And Genesis wasn't letting go of Rufus' hand. It comforted him more than words could say. He was in a strange place with strange people, and though he wanted to be here, it was still a little frightening. "Can we play something?" Rufus asked shyly. "... What do you do when you're here? What do you recommend?"
"Of course we can play games." The thought, we will be playing my kind of games later crossed his mind, but he quickly shoved it away. No, he was going to treat the young man with respect and assure that he had a good time. It saddened Genesis to no end that no one had ever thought that Rufus would like to visit a place like the Saucer. What kind of bastards had Rufus had to grow up with? Hell, even his asshole parents had brought him here when he was a kid.
He took his pretty companion to Wonder Square. As soon as they exited the portal, they were stopped by a man in a chocobo suit, and were asked to pose for another picture. It was one of the park's specialty photos, and when developed it would have the Gold Saucer logo trimming its border. Genesis pulled Rufus close to his chest, looked down into the boy's eyes, and pressed his lips to those of the teen. A white flash and Genesis eased away. It was as if the warrior was flaunting the guy he was here with, and in a way he was. He didn't care if this got back to... Oh, dear Goddess. Genesis was so used to dragging his latest lover into the spotlight with him and laughing as the tabloids had a field day with the story that he had totally forgotten that it was Rufus fucking Shinra he was here with. He really wasn't here with the Rufus he was trying to get to know, but with the vice president of the Shinra Electric Power Company. Ah, fuck, can't I do anything right by him? Genesis suddenly was furious with himself for neglecting that fact.
The kiss had totally taken Rufus by surprise. At first he was mortified at the idea of a picture of the two of them lip-locked, and was terrified of it getting back to anyone in Midgar, but at the same time, he desperately wanted a copy of the picture. He could only imagine how blissful he must have looked, with one of Genesis' arms around him, looking up into Mako blue eyes and collapsing, melting into the kiss, eyes fluttering delicately closed. The entire night was a whirlwind, a spectacle; everything was larger than life and chaotic. It stressed him out, but there was a thrill in being part of a world that was purely Genesis, purely drama and color and flashiness. He had been so secluded that the thrill of being out in the world was a drug. He couldn't even protest at the pictures, at the adoring looks that he soon realized were being sent his way as well. He wondered how he looked beside Genesis. Did he compliment the redheaded warrior, or did he detract from his beauty?
There was nothing Genesis could do about the publicity at this point, so he took Rufus to get cotton candy-the boy chose blue-while they waited for the photo to be printed.
After picking up their picture, which had turned out better than Genesis thought it would, he gave it to Rufus as a souvenir. While stuffing his mouth with pink fluffy sugar, Genesis took his partner to a row of shooter games. Rufus had mentioned liking guns, and there were prizes to be won for high scores. He knew the vice president would love the competition.
Rufus felt the world around him slow down as he stared at the picture Genesis had given him. He had never seen himself look so blissful, and Genesis was every bit as lovely and graceful as he had imagined he would look. Rufus felt himself blushing and shivering. He tucked the picture into his pocket, determined to keep it safe and look at it again later when he eventually had to go back to Midgar, cursed place though it was.
The shooting games ended up being a wonderful idea. Rufus was astonishingly good at them, and even Genesis was impressed. Well, Tseng had said he had been practicing. But Tseng wasn't here, Rufus thought with a sly grin. His shadow was gone for the evening. Did that mean he could do whatever he wanted? He took out all his pent-up emotion over his recent epiphany out on the game, and ended up getting one of the highest scores on record. "I won!" he shouted, then immediately covered his mouth. Was he allowed to get excited? He felt immediately embarrassed. "I mean, I won," he mumbled. He looked at Genesis, searched his eyes for any evidence of disapproval. "... What did I win, anyway?" he asked.
Genesis laughed at the young man's excitement. His date's eyes were sparkling, and his mouth was split in a smile. Genesis had never known Rufus to ever wear such an expression. "I am impressed, Mr. Shinra." He pulled the golden boy's hand away from his mouth, "Rufus, it is okay to be loud here." He gestured around. "Everyone else is." Just as excited as Rufus, the SOLDIER took the vice president and his score card up to the exchange window. The lady behind the counter read his points, and congratulated him. She then pointed to the prize wall. The vice president was given a choice between a cutlass with two materia slots, a red materia that read Phoenix on the plaque under it, or a pair of earrings. "Your choice, love." Genesis encouraged. It wasn't until it was already said that he realized the term of endearment he had just used on Rufus. He hoped that in the merriment of the moment, his companion hadn't noticed.
Rufus immediately chose the cutlass. He had no idea whether it was a good one or not, but that didn't matter; he had the rest of his life to buy nice swords, and he just wanted one he could learn to use. He didn't know how to use summon materia, and he hated jewelry, so it was an easy choice. When it was in his hand, he held it and appraised it in the same way he had done Rapier. It wasn't nearly as smooth, of course, nor did it have that invigorating Lifestream energy coursing through it, but it felt good in his hand, as good as the sawed-off shotgun he was growing accustomed to using. He'd have to ask Genesis how to use materia. Somehow, Dark Nation could use it and Rufus couldn't, and it had always infuriated him that his father would rather teach the damn dog to heal Rufus than to teach Rufus to heal himself.
Then he froze. What had Genesis just called him? Whatever it was, it had sent a shockwave through his body, and he felt like he was tingling. As spoiled as Rufus was, he had had everything lavished on him but the attention of someone who truly gave a damn. "What did you just say?" Rufus asked cautiously, pulling Genesis aside, the sword momentarily forgotten, though he was still holding it. "And why did you allow them to take pictures of me? If any of those get back to my father..." Rufus went pale. "He'd order the Turks to kill me. He doesn't want two gay sons, Genesis. He's already disowned Lazard." The thought pained him. He wondered how it had felt for his brother. "What will you do if anyone in Midgar sees those?" How will you protect me, was what he really meant.
Genesis pulled the small teen into his embrace, wrapping both his arms around Rufus' tiny waist. "Shh," the SOLDIER soothed, lips against the golden top of the boy's head. "If anyone sees the pictures, just claim that they're doctored. It's a believable story since you'll be dealing with the tabloids, and everyone knows how those papers love to print stories about me." He took the young Shinra's chin between his thumb and forefinger, and tilted it so the two were face to face. "And Rufus, I would kill anyone who tried to hurt you." The red mage was shocked to his core to discover he meant those words. He let his lips brush across Rufus'. "So stop worrying."
His blood ran hot and thick, and he felt himself quiver with a lust he knew wasn't healthy. Rufus' eyes said all the approval Genesis needed. He knew it wasn't right, but... hadn't that dream been so erotic? Genesis, and that sword dripping with blood... Nothing mattered anymore. Hadn't he been raised to be patient, to await a happiness that would never come? He didn't want to be in the same spot as Lazard, working for a man he hated, spending his time engaging in whatever twisted crap his brother was into in order to forget how unhappy he was. Rufus was young. He'd give himself a try.
Rufus stepped forward, grabbed Genesis' face in both hands, and dragged him down into an impassioned kiss. He was shocked by his own boldness, but it was no more dangerous than anything Genesis had done already, right?
Genesis' body ignited in that kiss. The fact that it was Rufus who had initiated it caused his blood to boil. It was the kiss one gave to their hero. Genesis needed to be someone's hero, and maybe, just maybe, he could be the savior of the small man claiming his lips right now.
The commander tightened his arms around Rufus' waist and pulled him closer. He deepened the kiss until they were both breathless, then he pulled himself away from the vice president. Genesis swore the man's lips were becoming an addiction. "Rufus," he said hoarsely, releasing him from his embrace, "we could have stayed in Midgar if you..." He shook his head, sending his cinnamon locks out of his eyes. "Hey, wanna see me fight?" He needed a distraction, a way to work off the frustration that had built up, due to an entire evening of playful touches, soft caresses, and sweet kisses.
He saw Rufus' eyes light up when he said that, and suddenly it was Rufus dragging him by the hand. The soon-to-be president wasn't stupid, and he had figured out that Genesis could only be talking about the battle arena, which he had seen a sign for earlier.
The time between being dragged away from Wonder Square and registering for the fights was a blur. Genesis was shown into a room where the combatants were kept until their names were called, while Rufus was shown to the stands.
Rufus had the pleasure of witnessing a few hand-to-hand fights and one sword battle before Genesis was called. Because Genesis was a SOLDIER and had an unfair advantage against more normal contestants, the officials decided that he would be fighting a Behemoth.
The materia master walked into the center of the arena, head held high, swollen with pride, Rapier already drawn. His coat had been discarded in the back, and there was that cocky smirk on his lips. The crowed that had filled the stadium erupted with cheers when Genesis' name was called. Obviously, as soon as he registered, the news got out that he would be fighting, and the area had quickly become packed.
Somehow Genesis had managed to spot Rufus in the flood of people-it had to be those Mako enhancements-and graced his golden boy with a wink.
Rufus felt his heart pound in his chest when Genesis winked at him. He found himself riveted to the scarlet warrior, and was surprised that he had managed to get such a good seat. He was thankful that no one seemed to recognize him, and that no one had sat down immediately next to him. He crossed his legs to try and hide the erection he had been sporting ever since Genesis had mentioned fighting to show off for him. The cutlass he had won was on the seat to his right, and he still hadn't let go of the hilt. Rufus was so pleased with the idea of having his own sword. He thought briefly about asking Genesis to teach him how to use it, but knew he'd make an ass of himself in front of the warrior. His thoughts ended abruptly when the monster came out of the other side of the arena, lunging at Genesis. Rufus gripped the hilt of his new sword with both hands, needing something to steady himself. He almost yelled to tell Genesis to watch out, but before the words even had a chance to threaten to escape him, Genesis began to move.
Genesis' thoughts and actions became one; years of training kicked in. He jumped back when the monster took a swipe at his chest, but in the same movement of his jump Rapier was in motion. The brilliant weapon bit deep into the tough hide of the creature; fur sheared, skin opened, and blood dripped. The monster howled. Fans cheered.
The towering thing charged. Genesis was already in the air, drill twisting down toward it. The Behemoth was not a stupid creature, and as the warrior descended, the monster leapt upward and caught Genesis through his sword arm with its massive horn. Genesis screamed. It flailed its head, and the fiery First was sent crashing to the hard dirt floor. The SOLDIER, fighting the pain in his shoulder, tucked in a ball and rolled out of the claw attack that the purple-furred monster was coming down on him with.
Rufus was on the edge of his seat, and then he was standing, not caring if anyone behind him could see or not. He clung to the sword, grasping the hilt between his two hands, as if somehow holding onto it would give Genesis strength. When Genesis first wounded the monster, he let out a shrill cry of joy that was extremely embarrassing, and he immediately looked to his left and right to see if anyone had heard or recognized him. Genesis was flung to the ground, and Rufus whimpered with worry, peering over the railing to see if Genesis was badly hurt. He wished urgently that he knew how to use materia, but then that would be cheating if he helped him.
Genesis was casting even before he was back on his feet, wincing in pain and panting. The Cure healed the damage completely and the SOLDIER went back on the offense. He ran head on at his opponent, blade angled flat, deadly tip leading the way. The monster dropped its head, ready for Genesis to collide with its sharp horn. At the last minute, the commander slid to the right, preformed a tight 360 degree circle for momentum, thrust, and drove Rapier hilt-deep into the Behemoth's massive shoulder. He quickly withdrew his steel and bounced backward.
The monster roared, and before the fighter could throw up a magic barrier, it released Flare. The tiny balls of fire energy gathered around the First and engulfed him. He disappeared inside the glare of orange white flame; popping and crackling could be heard. The crowd was silent. When the spell dissipated, Genesis was on one knee, head lowered, body smoking. He shoulders were heaving, and his hair was soaked with sweat. His fighting arm was hanging limply at his side, and Rapier was scraping the ground. What the spectators didn't get to see was the half-smirk that was on Genesis' face.
Thankfully, Genesis was quick to cast, and he looked good as new, if not better. Rufus breathed a sigh of relief, releasing a breath he hadn't even realized he had been holding. Rufus cheered at the next shot Genesis got, but then his mouth fell open in terror when he saw that the monster had cast Flare, a magic attack so formidable that Rufus hadn't even known it was more than legend. Please, Genesis, don't get yourself killed, Rufus thought desperately. The flames didn't move, and Rufus felt his heart fall to the ground. Was he...? If Rufus were capable of crying, tears would have sprung to his eyes at the sight, but as it was he stood motionless, his face blank and full of pain.
Thinking that he'd already beaten the human, the Behemoth charged with its horn to finish the job. Genesis waited... waited... somersaulted under the creature's head, and stabbed straight up. Rapier pierced hide, muscle, bone and brain. The beloved metal tip came out the top of the monster's skull.
Genesis, now covered in a thick reddish black ichor, stood to his full height, lifting his kill off the ground with him. The on-lookers went wild with screams and claps.
SOLDIER First Class Rhapsodos kicked the monster off his sword and wiped her clean on his pants. He gently placed her back in her sheath, and moved to the wall directly below Rufus. With one finger, he for motioned his date to come to him.
Rufus had almost missed Genesis' next move in his emotion. Thankfully the blur of motion snapped him out of his reverie and he saw the incredible killing blow that Genesis delivered, and the monster gore that covered him from head to toe. Rufus felt himself breathe again, and realized his heart was indeed beating. He winced at the blood, but then Genesis raised the monster above his head, tossed it, and wiped off his sword. Somewhere in that series of events Genesis had made his way over to Rufus, calling him. Rufus took a few steps forward to meet Genesis, his face absolutely white, and then he stumbled, collapsing onto the ground. Rufus Shinra had never seen blood and gore of that magnitude, and the image of Genesis covered in it was too much for his weak stomach to handle.
Genesis was over the wall in no time. He threw threatening glares at anyone who tried to get close to the fainted vice president, effectively keeping the audience at bay. He picked up his date bridal style and pushed his way through the crowed of cheering, patting and gawking spectators. Not one of them seemed to give a damn about the kid he was carrying, as long as they got to touch the famed First Class. And it in was times like this that he hated being famous.
Genesis had finally managed to get them to the lobby of the ghost motel when Rufus stirred in his arms. In his haste to get Rufus out of there, he had forgotten to get his jacket and to claim his prize. "Well, hello, sleeping beauty." He bit back his smile. "I thought you liked stuff like this." The SOLDIER was still covered in the creature's vital fluids, and it looked even worse because his face was now not just splattered, but streaked as well.
He set Rufus on his feet, but kept an arm around his waist until he knew the blond could stand on his own.
Rufus awoke to a face streaked with blood, and as soon as Genesis put him on the ground, he promptly bent over and vomited all over his feet. As much as Rufus loved fighting, blood and guts were not something he was used to seeing, especially not when Genesis was morbidly decorated with them. Not to mention that his white slacks were bloodied from being carried. How was he going to explain that to the laundry service? Did Genesis have a cleaning materia of some kind?
When he was finally finished, he tried to stand up but swayed a bit on his feet. Genesis tightened his grip on Rufus' waist to keep him steady. "I... I did like seeing you out there, it's just..." He bent double and vomited again. Genesis felt sorry for the boy, and rubbed his back affectionately. Rufus appreciated the touch, especially when he felt so miserable physically. Here he had been so excited to watch Genesis use that sword, and yet all he thought about during the battle was how badly he didn't want the man to get hurt. There was a part of him that did feel thrilled, though; it wasn't every day that a SOLDIER First Class took him on a date and fought and killed a monster in his honor.
He managed to stand up for good this time, and he allowed Genesis to escort him out of the lobby, apologizing profusely for the mess.
Comments are loved