S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Rhapsodos: Taking the Backseat
Disclaimer: Refer to the Prologue Chapter.
Beta-ed by: CommentatorInThePeanutGallery (October 12, 2012) [Last Edit January 1st, 2016]
AU Notes: Thanks to those who have Favorited and alerted this fic: Isaliz Crossmine, deltawaves, YoukoKurai, Mreaca, ellky510, Twin Tails Speed, child-of-paradox-and-chaos, Rei-Crow, and Vfran. Thanks to Athelhelde for inserting this fic in their C2 and author fav!
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Happy weekend~! Hope to brighten your holiday with this installment.
Enjoy!
~ Chapter 4: Working on the New Job ~
"Work saves us from the three evils: boredom, vice, and need." ~ Voltaire
"Why do I forget you're a godforsaken actor when I made that bet?"
With a Bluetooth device in his ear, Genesis shrugged innocently. "Maybe that's because Natasha isn't around to remind you? You're starting to forget."
"Hey! I'm not that old yet!" Phil protested on the other side of the line.
"That doesn't change the fact you still owe me free breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The wind sails over the water's surface... Quietly, but surely." A grin crept up Genesis' face.
A sigh. "Alright. You win, Genesis." His voice then turned a good 180 degrees. "So, how are you doing in your new job these days? How's the Captain doing?"
Genesis had to resist not to glare or just torch his desk with a Firaga spell at his current workspace. However, he did owe the elder agent the story on his side on things. "Work? I'll probably regret it for most of my life when it comes to the numerous paperwork and things I have to check up on. I feel like I want to burn my desk right now and be done with it." Laughter was heard on the line, which the younger agent rolled his eyes to. "Laugh it up, Phil," Genesis muttered dryly.
"Now you know how I feel when I'm dealing jobs like taking care of you three." Coulson joked. "How was your first day with the Captain, though? And how is he doing right now?"
"A lot better than I expected." Genesis genuinely said. "I'd have to thank you for telling me that Lil' Steve needed someone to fill in when his father when you couldn't. Kids work wonders on the guy. As for how he's doing lately, we've got all the health and mental sheets filled up, so he's good for duty again. I just wasn't expecting for Fury to chuck all the other Initiative member files on me, including about those who were kicked out." He signed another document on a tablet that had to do with paperwork with a stylus as he waited for a reply.
"That's good to hear, which means you're taking the job well and Captain is going to be in action in no time!" A pause. "Wait– The Director threw you all that information on the others?"
"If it means knowing that you and Agent Sitwell were behind in making sure Blonsky or the Abomination didn't get into the Initiative, then yes." Genesis smiled widely. "Nice tactic on setting Tony Stark on the General." (1)
"Setting Stark on the General wasn't my idea, it was Agent Sitwell's." Phil lightly argued. "I was reluctant that he might make things worse."
"But in the end, he was the only one who could piss the big wig off so the World Security Council would take Blonsky's name off the list."
"Yeah... you know that this means your clearance level is now at level 8, Genesis?"
Genesis seriously didn't like being reminded about it. It was like knowing he'd dug his own grave. "Yes, it's getting closer to your clearance level; which means Fury will have my ass if things royally screw up. Talk about pressure," he mumbled as he signed another document.
"Don't worry, we'll split up the workload should they need to band together if the time comes. I'm their handler, remember? Don't forget I'm in charge of you too." Phil said as if he was grinning from the other side of the line.
"I wouldn't dream of having someone else. A fool thinks himself to be wise, but a wise man knows himself to be a fool." Genesis chuckled back. He gave a moment of thought before he asked, "How's everything on your end?"
There was an uncomfortable short silence. "The Tesseract has increased activity readings, but so far it's not spiking up and down like a yo-yo like before. It's stabilizing– for now. I'm not sure if it's a good thing or a bad thing. The security checkup is usual as always. On second thought, I think I remember about Fury wanting to send you and the Captain on a mission."
"What?!" Genesis asked surprised as he stopped skimming through his paperwork. "Is this some kind of joke? Isn't it a bit too early to get Steve into a mission that could be handled by another agent?"
"The Director insisted on 'baby steps', which I think it's not really such a bad thing." Phil reasoned. "Genesis, it's not a hard mission. Just a bodyguard mission and these people aren't high-profile, they're our own scientists."
The former Commander calmed down a little. "You know the mission details?"
"Not all of them. However, they're the scientists here at Project P.E.G.A.S.U.S. that have no ties to the Tesseract project in particular. You and the Captain aren't coming into this facility; you guys are just going to accompany them travel to our other secret facility."
"Now that you mention it, I suppose it doesn't sound so bad," Genesis stated. He trusted Phil when it came to missions. The man had a good instinct on how they would usually turn out.
Phil agreed. "Yeah. It'll get Steve at ease in working with the other agents too. He could use the exercise getting out and doing something that he's going to get involved with in the future. Fury would most likely brief you two before you head out."
"How's Clint by the way?" Genesis asked about his co-worker.
"I haven't talked to him for a couple of days since I got here. He's guarding the Tesseract." Phil said. "I've scouted around this place and sorting out the security and scientists that should be evacuated out of the area. You should call him some time."
"Most likely I will, once all of this newly blasted paperwork is over and done with." Genesis scoffed.
A laugh. "Okay, I'll get off now. I've got another sector to check out for today and you got to get your credentials done. When we're both done with our jobs, I'll pay up my side of the bet."
"Looking forward to it, Phil," Genesis said before he said his goodbye and turned off his connection.
On his personal tablet, Genesis typed up a small mission on his to-do list before he settled back to the other numerous tablets that littered his desk. It wasn't as hectic as paper that could stack up to the ceiling like back in ShinRa, but the amount was nearing to what he was receiving back in the past... all because he gave up and had to agree to be a consultant than the average Avenger member. Who knew being the supporting crew was so tedious? Genesis shook his head and considered that he would avoid the limelight anyway. It was the main point he agreed to this.
The good thing about enhancements and magical abilities was that there were no rules he couldn't use them in doing paperwork.
Looking at the clock, Genesis smiled. Time to speed things up.
On himself, he cast the spell Haste. (2)
He wasn't cheating, he was just... resourceful. Genesis would even bet a certain red-headed Turk couldn't have thought on how to use Materia to the fullest (more like abused) in any sort of situation, even for office work.
In Gaia, Reno who was complaining of doing his own share of tiresome paperwork sneezed.
.
.
Xavier's Institute for Higher Learning...
Scott Summers sighed as he waited for three teenagers that day in front of where the Danger Room was located. As Cyclops and second leader of the X-Men just behind Professor X, he was wondering on plans to make sure that his next session for the teens would make some progress today.
"Is there a problem, Scott?"
"Professor," Scott responded slightly surprised. "I'm sorry, I was just– sort of occupied."
"Is this about Zack?" Xavier asked. At Cyclops' frown the professor smiled. "I don't need to be psychic where the young man is concerned. You've been pushing yourself to figure him out most of the time this week."
"No kidding." Scott sighed. "I've tried to pinpoint his abilities. So far, it's a whole jumbled up mess. Although, it seems he has far more sophisticated combat and tactic abilities than I would have thought."
"Combat and tactical abilities?" the Professor asked in wonder.
A nod. "He says he's doing it instinctively, but from what I'm seeing, he's been trained before. Ororo says it's not possible, at least according to Zack's civilian documents she has found he doesn't have any record in martial arts training."
Xavier was silent at that. Perhaps the boy had something to do with the Weapon-X program? (3) But that couldn't be, all his school grades and witnesses were accounted for. "Tell me about what you found out about his abilities."
Scott then went to a chronological order explanation of what happened that week.
After a day, he was notified to be Zack's mentor, along with his two friends Kitty and Peter, Scott was in charge in knowing what their abilities were and training them so they could use their abilities with fine control. The black spiky haired kid was a really eager one, even though he was not a mutant. Still, he did display higher strength, speed, and stamina that were above a natural human. So far as he could have a fight with Peter, whose specialty was changing his skin to metal and acquiring super strength. There wasn't really any reason on how that Zack's eyes glowed, it was basically permanent at best. Cyclops concluded that it turned out that way after Zack awoken his powers by what he heard about him.
The first ability Scott found out that particular day was during lunch.
Zack wasn't exactly in the right condition that day, thanks to the day before of fainting in front of the Professor, Jean, and Beast. The boy only mentioned he got weird visions again, about people he didn't know of, but were somewhat familiar but couldn't specify where he'd seen them. No name of place or person would come to his mind. The poor kid was frustrated, nonetheless, he seemed happier once his friends found out they supported him. Apparently, the rest of the student body seemed to want welcome the three. One of the ways to find out was the classic 'slushie throw' on them. No matter how much the Professor banned it, it was already like a tradition among the students to get to know what the new kids could do.
Peter out of reflex turned to metal and threw the slushie in the opposite direction, getting his throwers wet.
Kitty's didn't even land on her, as they just phased through her.
Zack was tense and shouted the slushie to 'Stop' and it did. (4) He left the whole student body bewildered. The Slushie ended up stuck and frozen in the air for the next few hours. No one was able to move it, at least until it wore out by itself. The raven teen didn't know what he did, all he thought about was making it stop.
Then in class, one of the teachers was affected by the boy in an odd manner. Zack had later told them he was feeling bored and he had wished that things would speed up a bit, so did the teacher. He realized it was his fault when the maths teacher was already squeaking like a chipmunk and moved too fast. Panicking, Zack had immediately tried to talk to the teacher to slow down, only to find out seconds later the person was talking far too slow. The class was dismissed early (even though the teens in the class found it funny or cool), and Scott was called in to calm Zack down.
Jean and Scott that day guessed that Zack had abilities to do with time. Except that... they were proven wrong the next day.
In one particular Science class, there was a discussion about the elements. Elements in relating what was believed ancient societies, to even what was still used today like in Feng Shui. Hank who was in charge of the class, got a hell of a surprise when Zack had accidentally burned, shocked, and frozen the white board by mistake. The poor kid ran out of the class apologizing and left the scientist of the X-Men in a loop. So it was then noted that Zack had the elemental affinity for fire, lightning, and ice.
The next few days was followed by more weird power bursts. From suddenly experiencing a local earthquake, causing a whole crowd to lose their voices, causing his P.E. class to sleep, and when he wanted to escape from causing trouble, he'd disappear or teleport out of the way. All those happenings left the older X-Men students baffled and confused. (5)
"I see why you're very adamant in wanting to know." the professor stated. "However, it may not be a good idea to push Zack too much. You may frustrate him and things might not go for the better. Do remember that while he isn't a mutant, that does not mean he isn't just as confused as any of the teenagers that come here to learn."
"I know, Professor."
Xavier chuckled. "It's been a while since we haven't been through something like this. I have to say it is good practice for you, Ororo, and Jean."
Scott raised a brow awkwardly behind his red glasses. "Practice? I can't figure anything out when it comes to Zack!"
"Take it as an experience. Some mutant powers can be as just unpredictable or have a wide variety." Professor X explained patiently. "There may be a time when I will not be here to take care of the school and you would at perhaps one time handle a similar situation. To think I've seen it all... Zack's arrival is quite refreshing."
"You and Jean still can't read his mind, can't you?"
A pause. "No. I simply have given up. Whatever those energy tendrils are, they're quite more alive than you think they are." He held a hand up to notify Scott he wasn't finished yet. "They seem to be infused with emotion, memories, and perhaps knowledge as well. At least, that is what Jean and I have caught from their whispers. Nonetheless, when both Jean and I entered his mind together there was a rather strange occurrence that transpired." His student waited patiently before he continued, "Those energy tendrils communicated with us through emotions. From what we both had felt, it was persistent that Zack was its business and that we should not meddle on what was going to happen. Oddly enough, the nudge was like being scolded gently by a mother, which meant it knew we didn't mean harm to Zack."
The younger man's mouth gaped. "You mean that energy is alive in him? And it said to you to mind your own business? And I thought mutant business was weird. But now that you said it if Zack isn't really a mutant... then what is he?"
"Human," Professor X said gently. "According to his DNA, he's human as the rest of us. It seems our students have arrived."
"Are you staying with us today, Professor?"
Xavier nodded. "I'd like to see how he reacts to the Danger Room, along with his friends."
.
.
Genesis sat with his cell phone in his ear in front of Steve Rogers' training room. Just as he was finished with his paperwork, he was about to meet up with the old-timer until there were guards in front of the training room doors. He wasn't allowed in, as Fury was inside talking with Captain America privately. There was no point in eavesdropping because the room was sound proofed from the corridor outside of him. Bored without LOVELESS to distract himself, Genesis had decided to have a chat with Clint Barton: new-found annoying blond brother, not the average social seeker, and sniper to boot.
"So, new job?"
"A week old."
"You're not with the Captain now?"
"Director Fury has him occupied. Otherwise, I wouldn't be talking to you." Genesis snorted. The line was silent for a while as the auburn fiddled around with his tie. "Are you nesting again?"
"Observing from a distance." Agent Barton corrected with a deadpan tone.
Genesis combed his hair ignoring that statement. "I've checked your apartment and the landlord at the old building at Bedford-Stuyvesant. Everything is as it is. No one's touched it." (6)
Clint's voice was relieved. "Thanks. I was getting a little worried that since Phil is here, no one else can't keep an eye out on it. You got this month's pay paid?"
"Yes. Yours, Natasha's, and even Phil's place as well." Genesis replied. "Your apartment was a total mess by the way."
"You didn't clean it up did you?" Clint asked the question like it was an invasion of privacy.
The auburn haired agent frowned. "Just your bookcase. Nothing else. I hate seeing books being discarded so thoughtlessly by any owner."
"Fine. At least, you don't clean up the whole apartment like Phil does. I swear every time he comes in my apartment he fusses over it."
"I wouldn't be so surprised, Clint. Your apartment does resemble a hovel sometimes." Genesis noted.
"I prefer to live in that neighborhood. You know I can't stand–"
"Living near rich and conceited people. I know, Clint." the younger agent interrupted. "Keeping it a bit neater would give you points from Phil."
"The reason why you're living in the middle-class apartments?"
Genesis shrugged. "I've had enough time staying in the worst places before. I want to move my life forward. Not backward." That was an understatement, when he was suffering the degradation, he probably lived in the worst conditions and being not so sane was even worse. "I just prefer to blend in these days." Another pause. "Have you and Natasha tied the knot yet?"
"What?! The fucking hell, Genesis? W-Where did that question come from?" the bowman stuttered on the other side.
"Some of it from Phil. He was wondering some time ago before Natasha left for her current mission." Genesis smiled, but it was turning to a smug grin. "Or would you prefer Katie Bishop or maybe perhaps Barbara "Bobbi" Morse?" (7) A choking voice from the other side was a sign the blond would be blushing heavily now.
"I wouldn't do that to Natasha! And Bobbi is just a co-worker. Just be glad no one can see me. If not, I swear I'll shoot you as a target practice dummy!" the sniper snapped from another line, but Genesis snickered anyway. "Since when were you interested in knowing who people think I'm getting laid with?"
"Since you proclaimed me as your 'younger brother'." the former SOLDIER said easily. "Annoying the 'older' brother is what the younger does by the book. I do have bugging rights, don't I?"
Clint sighed, but asked, "How did you find out in the first place?"
"Came with the job. I'm at level 8 clearance now. I read over your files." Genesis explained. "I'm betting Phil knows even more whose level is at 9 or some other 'level' we don't even know about. Not to mention the Director who has the highest at level 10."
"Damn," Clint swore. "Now you know that much, I think it may have been better you joined up with Avengers Initiative. You're going to be walking on thin ice if you go any higher. I don't know about you, but I have a gut feeling Fury wants you to be Phil's successor if anything happens to him."
"You don't say?" Genesis asked feeling weary of the news. For the current record, he was no handler.
Clint snorted. "I'm guessing it's the reason why he's talking with Steve Rogers right now. He's inspecting your work."
"I noticed, Clint. Although, I have predictions that he still wants me in the Initiative anyway."
"Is this about those other abilities you have?" the archer asked. "Look, I don't know what or how much you can do. If Fury's really pinning you down and you got some special abilities, why not use them?"
"Just a preference to mingle and be part of the crowd," Genesis said tiredly. "I'm not joining in until I find what I'm looking for. If I join in the limelight crew, it'll make my search harder to do."
"Genesis? Are you alright with that part of your past? I heard from Phil it's something you just can't let go."
"I just need to find the people I'm looking for. If they moved on, I'm game. If not, I'm going to try to talk to them. The wandering soul knows no rest." was a determined reply.
"Was the past so bad you can't let it go?"
Starting a catalyst that changed the world? Yes. In the process made his only friends succumbed to the brink of insanity? Oh yeah. Killed plenty of other guys being insane during the degradation that ate his body in a slow gruesome death? Right on the mark. Fought another war that led to more people getting killed? It was obvious his last life was so bad he sometimes thought whether if he even deserved a second chance at all.
A heavy sigh. "I got this second chance, Clint. I'm not letting that go."
"Alright," Clint said agreeing on Genesis' decision. "I believe you. I'm just making sure that whatever job you're taking from Fury; just make sure you're the same good kid I got to know."
"I'm not a kid," Genesis growled.
Clint chuckled. "I don't care. Just know I got your back, OK? I know you got mine. Got to go, I've got to report to the main security area again before I do my next shift. There are plenty of people coming in and out of this place, I don't want any misconceptions."
"Thanks, Clint."
"Just doing my share in our small odd family Phil's got." the archer said lightly. "I'll join up with you and Phil later at the Diner you two like to eat at when this job is done. Later Genesis. Take care."
"You too." Genesis said ending the call, he shut his cell phone.
Honestly, he needed that call from Clint. While he wasn't as calm as Angeal, the blond archer was someone who he trusted in S.H.I.E.L.D. in personal matters. Even when Genesis had never told his true abilities or his past, Clint was just a person who he could have a chat with without going too deep or prying into details. Clint had his own share of bad experiences in the past, but he was willing to make amends. Well–as long as he did it his way–'from a distance' was the only thing that kept Agent Barton going. It wasn't easy in getting close to the archer at first for Natasha or Genesis. Thanks to Phil though, they managed to find out what he was truly like. Behind the man that kept most people at an arm's distance, was a loyal and outgoing guy who actually cared about others. The former SOLDIER would never second guess on labeling Clint as Robin Hood, he had the skills but more importantly he had the heart.
Genesis then looked towards the door where the guards stood in front of Steve's training room. They haven't even moved since his conversation with Clint over the phone. Fury probably wouldn't expect him to finish his paperwork this quickly. The auburn haired spy tapped his foot.
'I'll give them another half an hour.' Genesis thought. 'If they're not done by then, I'll sneak in if I have to.'
.
.
S.H.I.E.L.D. Training area...
Steve Rogers had to say he enjoyed that week. He was finally getting a grip on the life he had missed for nearly 70 years stuck in ice. Life wasn't much these days, which mostly consisted of training, conditioning, and a few small reports with filing. But that was all towards the goal that he'd be back on duty, whatever work that S.H.I.E.L.D. would have for him. Living in the current world was just a bit too much for Steve. So he basically stuck to the closest thing that hadn't changed much, the military. Only, the military he was in was also mixed in with plenty of scientists and spies around him.
The most notable spy, the SHIELD Consultant to the Avengers Initiative, was Agent Genesis Rhapsodos.
Genesis had an ironic name at the end, as the young agent would quote just about from any sort of quote or poetry he could get his hands on. It was awkward at first for Steve to get used to at first, but knowing the odd perks of the younger agent became usual for him.
The next day after that fateful night, Steve was very surprised he didn't exactly had a hangover the next day after he got tipsy from drinking Genesis' mix of alcohol. The agent only mentioned he got good at mixing and somehow figured out how the alcohol supposedly would wear off thanks to his Super Soldier Serum metabolism. To the blond, having Genesis cheered him up for that day and even as to help him pick up the pieces had him want to trust the agent more.
That first week, Genesis would occasionally drop by in his apartment or training area. For those numerous times he did, Steve Rogers or Captain America had no bloody idea how the young man would sneak in so easily or creep on someone with Super Soldier enhanced senses. It was rather spooky how he just was there in the room when Steve wasn't looking. No matter how much Steve tried to pry him about it, the red-head easily shrugged it off or teased him that he was getting sloppy. The blond was sure he'd probably never knew what secret Genesis had in doing the art of stalking so easily. Unless the young agent was willing to let his secret out, something that was on Steve's highly unlikely to happen list.
Despite the oddness and the 'spy behavior,' the agent displayed, Steve was glad for his company. Genesis was easy to work with, although at some times the Super Soldier noticed he was close to losing his temper or patience. Eventually, the kid would breathe out a sigh and restrain himself. Steve had to admit, Genesis was pretty serious when he took to the job to a professional level, but he'd then from time to time joke around like there wasn't a problem in the world. It eased Steve's nerves a bit when he was too tense in training exercises or answering questions that the Division needed to know about.
During those days when Steve felt a little down and overwhelmed, the young agent was a mood changer. Genesis like the mystery he was would drag the Steve out of the building without telling where they were going. Those visits then would lead them to places where Steve would get an eye opener about the new world he lived in now. Whether it was the museums to see how history has unfolded through the decades... to even meeting up with New York's heroes that were New York's Finest and Bravest. To learn about the September 11th terrorist attacks was an actual shock for Steve, however, hearing their stories that were both sad and courageous would later leave an impression on him he had still had much to fight for. Rogers would later learn that the 'small' Steve Genesis introduced him to, had lost his real uncles who were a policeman and firefighter during those times. The world may have achieved peace, but there were still plenty of bad people around that exploited the innocent and weak.
All in all, Steve respected the younger agent on his thoughtful actions. If anything, the Super Soldier would consider Genesis as a friend (perhaps only friend currently) since he woke up. Steve just wasn't so sure about the others. While Genesis was acquainted with Agent Romanoff, Steve hadn't had met her once after the time he first woke up. And Director Fury... he was trying to get to know him right now.
"I see that you're ready for duty, Captain." the Director stated. "I hope that my replacement was adequate."
Steve didn't comment on Genesis for that moment, more interested in having his own question answered. "How young are you recruiting agents these days?"
"Naturally, after all, personnel graduate from our spy school. Agent Rhapsodos is an exception to the rule. He has plenty potential than most agents of his age." Fury responded. "Is there a problem with him, Rogers?"
He shook his head. "None at all, Sir. I'd probably say he's doing his job very well."
Fury raised an interested brow up. "Really now?"
"Maybe too well," Steve acknowledged. "Whatever you guys taught him, he's able to sneak up on me without alerting my senses. I haven't managed to detect him even when I'm on guard."
"He's one of best ones in using stealth, even if Agent Romanoff still holds that title." Fury agreed. "Anything else you found out about on our youngest S.H.I.E.L.D. agent?"
"He's professional and a good kid," Steve said concluding his thoughts. The Super Soldier wasn't going to give much away as he was curious why the Director was very interested in Genesis specifically. "Why are you so interested in him? I heard you actually considered him into the Avengers Initiative before something happened between the higher-ups."
"The World Security Council thinks Rhapsodos is too young, inexperienced. That's their view." Nick pointed out. "I, on the other hand, think he's ready to take on larger things on the job. He's shown to be very adaptable to hostile situations. All he needs is the right nudge in the right direction to use his talents. At S.H.I.E.L.D., we take the best, Rogers. We make sure no talent is wasted."
Steve merely shrugged. "Is there anything else you wish to discuss, Sir? Besides that, I've read the files you wanted me to and that you're declaring me fit for duty?"
"I've got you a mission to do." At Steve's raised brow, Fury replied, "It's a simple bodyguard mission, and Agent Rhapsodos will accompany you. If you're going to start working with us Captain, we're starting off small. It's to get used to our personnel and procedures. It'll make things easier in the long run."
The two who were startled when they heard and knock from the back of the room. Only, when their heads turned, the very agent they were talking about was standing there. "We're escorting our Scientists to another facility, Director?"
Steve had noted that Fury's expression was unreadable. "Yes, and how long have you've been there, agent?"
"Just now," Genesis said truthfully. "I've been waiting in the corridor for half an hour. All the paperwork you sent me is done."
Fury shook his head in amusement knowing that the younger said the truth. "Sometimes I don't know what to do with you, Rhapsodos. If it's true, then that would be record time."
"Honestly, Sir, I don't need more work than you've given me. If not, I'm asking for a pay raise." Genesis said in a rather teasing tone, shocking Steve in the process how he was casual with his superior.
"Don't tempt me, kid." the Director warned but chuckled all the same. "You would have been in the Initiative otherwise." Then he went back to business. "I take it you heard the mission, Rhapsodos?"
Genesis easily switched to report mode. "From Agent Coulson. He notified me that Steve Rogers and I are to accompany some of our scientists to our other facility that isn't directly related to the main project at Project P.E.G.A.S.U.S."
"Correct." Fury nodded. "Go ahead and prepare the transport, son. Our scientists should be arriving soon. I want you ready to depart shortly with Rogers."
"Yes, Sir." Genesis nodded before he disappeared from the room.
The Director stared at the door for a long while before he turned to Cap again. "He's an elusive one when he wishes to be. Rhapsodos knocked only because he didn't wish to disturb us and he respects your privacy."
Steve was rather speechless. "He's really good. But you've managed to read him easily."
"Like I said, Rogers. He let me read him." the Director said. "Now imagine the kid's got my experience and can do it at a younger age than I am."
"You want me to keep an eye on him?" Steve asked curiously.
"With any eye, you can spare him." Fury nodded. "Perhaps one day you'll persuade him to believe in heroes." When the blond hesitated the Director added, "I still believe in Heroes, Rogers. There will be a time when we can't handle everything that's beyond our capabilities. Just as those known heroes, we also need a younger generation who can inherit that belief as well."
The Super Soldier understood that. "I'll do my best, sir."
"Any other questions you wish to ask before your first mission in years?"
"No, Sir."
"There are some clothes for you on the second floor. You'll meet Agent Rhapsodos in the lobby waiting for you."
.
.
To one particular black-haired headed teen, he honestly hated the danger room.
It wasn't the fact it was literally dangerous. It was just mainly because the person who was behind making the simulation was a bit too imaginative in the scenario he, Kitty, Peter, and Scott were facing with. First, imagine you're in a medieval setting in a gigantic castle. Now, add in rampaging Vikings and dinosaurs who were out to kill them.
Crazy?
Yeah...
But why did Zack felt fighting these guys was a normal thing then?
Especially about the training in the simulations room that could kill them part.
When Scott complained, Ororo (or by her codename Storm) only replied that there may be something just as weird in the real world they never knew about. Scott didn't take the advice too kindly, blasting a stampeding triceratops with his laser beam eyes at them that jumped the danger room to the next level. Worse, he wasn't going to help the three of them. His method of letting the students learn was the 'jump into the fire' method. Meaning: the three were on their own.
With the triceratops gone, in its place was a large pack of Velociraptors.
Zack was not a dinosaur fan. Not since he watched Jurassic Park or its sequels when he was little which his parents dragged him to and it actually scared him in kindergarten. The part those lizards were in a pack right in front of them increased his dislike for them. He had no clue on what the Vikings are doing, but they were fighting themselves. It was the weirdest scenario Zack ever faced in this life, but he had to get through this. The teen wouldn't mind fighting with fists against the Vikings, but he was doubtful they'd worked on dinos. Peter was pounding away on them with his now turned metallic state, and Kitty was using her phasing powers to confuse the raptors into fighting each other.
The spiky haired teen, at first, started to blast ice blocks at them, but when he find they were too slow to form (and they were large to begin with), Zack ran through a couple of medieval castle corridors. Sure, he was good and fast at running away. Bad thing was, the raptors easily caught up with him. He was eventually cornered into a weapons room.
Another blast with lightning and fire on some of the raptors did work for a while. Unfortunately, that only worked until they were smart enough to figure out when Zack was vulnerable during the moments charging up for each blast. He winced and rolled out of the way when one raptor slashed him on the arm and quickly backed away.
"Zack, focus."
The teen looked around frantically, wondering if he was hearing things. He shook his head and dismissed it. The last place he wanted a flashback of a sort was in battle, even if the voice was the familiar one that looked out for him. What the hell was he thinking? Hearing voices in your head, was the first sign of madness. Well, except if it was from a psychic like the professor or Jean. Zack calmed himself down and took his surroundings just like the voice said. He needed to focus on getting rid of the raptors.
Five against one–-hardly fair-–but he needed to defeat them to get to his friends. He was virtually weaponless and knew his fists weren't going to help to fight them. Since it was a medieval era, there were weapons from that time. Zack threw a spear with a good aim, effectively taking out two. He didn't have time to take note he was getting stronger, but he knew he had no love for lances. That left three more to take care off. With their buddies dead, they were now getting cautious of him.
He tried a Captain America by throwing a shield to bash one out.
It worked, only because the cold-blooded critter got knocked out of the window tumbling to its falling doom below.
Okay, so he scratched shields off the list.
Zack had to jump back a few times from getting pounced by the last two. He managed to push a couple of weapon racks on them, but they were persistent in making him their meal. All he knew was doing was anything he picked up from Hollywood movies or those old Chinese (use everything on site tactics) movies his mom liked Jet Li for. Frustrated that he couldn't even defend himself, he grabbed the nearest and familiar (?) broadsword. The balance was a bit off but he took arms and a defense position.
How the fuck did he knew it was balanced or not? He never even picked up a sword in his life!
When one Velociraptor took its chance to cut him down, his body went on autopilot. Zack feinted to the side and slashed mid-arc cutting off the head. He breathed out heavily looking at his bloodied sword in bewilderment but didn't dare to look back at the dead dino behind him. His attention was already on the last raptor. There was another odd feeling that went through him now. It was as if his body was telling him that he shouldn't have a problem in taking this raptor in front of him down; like he had forgotten how to ride a bike, and his body was readjusting itself so it could remember.
A flash. A memory. The silver-haired man. "Take down that monster in one hit. No more."
Monster? Zack forced himself not to think about the sudden memory flash. He did take the man's word for it and charged. In a blink of an eye, he beheaded the other raptor without a thought.
"Oh yeah!" Zack whooped when he took care of the last predator. He twirled his sword easily in his hand, somewhat shocking himself that the sword felt very comforting in his hand. "Why do I feel like it's right to have a sword?" he asked himself. Shrugging, Zack decided he'd think about it later and help the others. Peter may be able to fight back, but Kitty didn't exactly had fighting skills. She only learned when she got to the Institute.
After finding the sword's sheath and fastening it to his back, Zack jogged quickly in the direction of his friends.
.
At the surveillance room ...
"Ororo, did you see that?" the professor asked brightly. "The way he used the sword."
"I don't understand. How can he use it? It's like he's done training before." Storm frowned keeping her eyes on the teen that was making his way back to his friends.
Jean on her left rubbed her chin. "Maybe his abilities also consist of easily adapting to weapons he's seen before. Or copying others?"
"What makes you think so?" Xavier asked interested in the explanation.
"Well, before Zack's powers manifested, he was shown by other students about their abilities. This included some of our students who have element affinities such as fire, ice, and after how Ororo used her lightning strikes."
Ororo leaned her head. "I suppose that may be true. He showed having new ones when he saw the others of what their powers were. He confessed after my class was dismissed yesterday he'd didn't feel alien to them. It was like recalling something when he did in the past."
"Perhaps that's what it is." Professor Xavier stated. "He has the power to recall things. Something he sees, he recalls. But we should keep an eye out to see how he develops next."
.
Back in the danger room...
Kitty wasn't really expecting to get saved by Zack when he came swinging down the raptors down with a sword. Peter was just as surprised but he only smirked back at Zack.
"Where did you get that?" Peter asked.
"Weapons room." Zack sighed as he took out the last raptor. He breathed out tiredly. "Don't ask how I can use it. My body just knows it. I'm pretty much fighting on instinct. You two okay?"
The only girl of the group sat down on a crate that survived the rampage. "Peachy. The Vikings kinda just left. I don't like those raptors."
"Neither do I," Peter agreed. "Keep your guard up, Kitty. Scott did mention that the danger room level gets harder every time we defeat one level."
The simulation shimmered and the surroundings changed. They were no longer in the medieval castle, but now they were in a large clearing.
Kitty smacked the larger teen on the arm. "You just had to jinx it!"
Zack warily looked around his surroundings. He was actually glad his sword didn't disappear from his back. It felt right that it was there. His senses were on high alert, he heard heavy steps coming their way. "Uh, guys..."
His friends were too busy bickering with each other until their next opponent was towering over them.
Zack seriously hated dinosaurs right now. In front of them was now the icon of the Jurassic Park films.
A killer Tyrannosaurus Rex who wanted them for lunch.
Shit.
"RUN!"
Three teens ran for their lives as the large predator's feet boomed the ground chasing them down like hunted prey. The thick undergrowth didn't stop the T-Rex from taking out trees that were in its way. Kitty was in front of the boys, as her abilities didn't hinder her from obstacles getting in her way. Peter would usually turn his fists and legs to metal to leave more obstacles behind him while he ran pushing things out of the way. Zack to his amazement was keeping up with the two by jumping around on top of the trees like a freaking ninja. Again, it was adding up to the numerous questions why he felt so invigorated like he done it before.
Another flash. He was on top of a train that was hijacked and taking down the bad guys with his sword.
Reality hit back, Zack tripped and went crashing down on the floor in another clearing where the other two who were taking deep breaths, trying to get their oxygen back.
"Ow, ow, ow, ow." Zack groaned as he sat up nursing his head. "Dammit, stupid visions."
"You okay?" Peter asked worriedly. "That was one heck of a fall."
"I'm okay, but I think I'll go to the med wing later for a thorough check up." the raven haired teen replied.
"So how are we going to defeat the Godzilla?" Kitty asked. "We need to kill it if we're going to get out of this."
"Or the next level." the eldest teen muttered darkly.
"Don't jinx it again, Peter!" the girl exclaimed.
Zack had to play peace-keeper. "Easy there! Peter's right, Kitty, it could get worse. But Kitty's right too, no need to make the situation look worse. Hope for the best but we should expect the worst."
Kitty looked back wearily as the T-Rex was closing in on them. "You got a plan, Zack?"
"Um– Uh– I do. It's a reckless one– but– "
"Now Zack," Peter insisted. "You lead, that thing has to go down."
Zack gulped but breathed out a quick calming breath before he turned to Kitty. "Peter and I are going to distract it. I want you to grab on its leg and phase into the ground. The fewer movements it has, the better chances we can take it down. The area doesn't have anything else to keep it still." To Peter, he said, "There's a chunk of boulders here. You're going to use them as artillery. The more distracted the thing is, we have more chances on getting hits on it."
"How about you?" Peter questioned.
Zack took his sword out. "I'm going to distract it and try to lop off its arms."
Peter didn't know what to say for that except, "Are you nuts?!"
"That's not the first time you said that to me." the spiky teen smiled. "I've still got your back. We're friends, right?"
Another memory. He was with a blond spiky teen with black soldier clothes on a back of a truck. "I'm just joking. I'd never abandon you. We're friends, right?"
At the end of the last vision, he felt sad for some reason. Like as if those were his last parting words. Zack wondered if that the person who he considered a friend in it came out okay. His eyes were now on Kitty and Peter, and he swore he'd help them survive.
"Incoming!" Kitty gave the heads up, as the T-Rex came charging in.
Peter started to throw boulders, Zack kept his ground and taunted loudly. "Hey, Ugly! I'm the piece of meat that's going to kick your ass!"
T-Rex roared and it started to snap its head and fangs to the raven headed teen, being the noisiest target. Zack fought back swiping his sword and blinded its left eye. When the large beast was stunned and roared, it stopped in place trying to focus its own vision. It was at that chance, Kitty phased from the ground, wrapped her arms on the lizard's leg and phased back, sinking the T-Rex into the ground. Because it was so large, Zack had to grab Peter by the shirt and drag him out of the immediate sinking area.
Sadly, he was a little too late to make the escape.
The T-Rex swayed its head violently at the two and Zack with Peter ended up getting smacked across the ground. Peter for one, had been knocked unconscious. Zack groggily picked himself up and picked up his sword. He frantically shook his friend to snap out of it. "Peter! Peter wake up, man!"
"PETER! ZACK!"
The teen was foolish to think that danger was far away when they were both still in the range of the T-Rex's fangs. His heart sped up. A split second his body heated up. In a horizontal motion, Zack deflected the jaws coming on him which made the beast stagger back.
From a safe distance away, Kitty watched with wide eyes how Zack just deflected an attack from a T-Rex. More absurdly, Zack's body shined like he was charging up energy. The raven head released it as he charged at the dino's head, performing five consecutive attacks, grabbed Peter from the dinosaur and leaped away 10 feet in the air to safety. Fatally injured, the T-Rex roared its last breath and tumbled to the ground with a 'BOOM'.
At that moment, Peter chose to wake up. "I feel like crap."
Kitty only came over and hugged to two. "I thought you guys were goners!"
"We nearly were done back there." Zack said tiredly, but he was looking to his hands. What the hell was that attack he did? He knew it was important. More importantly, there were a lot of things he needed to figure out after the simulation. But first, he was going to take a break. "How about we take the day off?"
"I second that." Peter agreed. "I need more training."
"Me too." Kitty raised her hand tiredly.
As the whole simulation in front of them disappeared into the room they all knew as the metal danger room, Scott came over to them to check their injuries. Zack stood without his sword feeling wrong without it. Before Scott shooed them out of the room, Zack had a memory with the large man who was his mentor.
"Seems like you found your very own Limit Break. Well done, Zack." His mentor was affectionately messing his hair.
Zack blinked a couple of times.
What was a Limit Break? (8)
With a sigh, Zack left that matter for later. He knew one thing, though...
He still hated the man-eating dinosaurs. Thank God they were extinct.
.
At the surveillance room ...
"That attack at the end." Jean pointed. "It's not something a newbie would be doing. Perhaps his 'recalling abilities' go to a professional level?"
"It doesn't go along how he now has super strength, speed, and stamina." Ororo objected. She put her two cents in, "During the second level, he was tired. But after he got together with the others, his stamina was somehow replenished. Like he recovered quickly. He's not as banged up as Peter after getting knocked out by the T-Rex."
"He has fast regenerative abilities." Xavier nodded with an interested tone. "Impressive. Let's not forget all those abilities functioned or came out when his was under threat."
"Zack would have been a dangerous mutant if he was one. We're lucky he isn't. I can't imagine if Magneto heard of him, we'd have our hands full." Jean commented.
Storm sighed. "I don't know about you professor, but I don't think that was the last of what Fair is capable of. All those things he did were instinctive. If he had full control, it would be a different matter."
Professor X watched fondly as Zack with a wide smile took Peter by the arm and helped the older teen to stand up and walk to the exit. "He may have dangerous powers, but I think as long as he uses it for good and keeps his heart that way... I guess we won't have to worry about it. I may not be able to read his mind, but he finds this Institute home. As long as he thinks it as home and care for the other students, he can stay."
"He's got a lot of work to do," Ororo said.
The professor smiled. "And so do my oldest students. I think Zack Fair will teach us of many things we haven't learned."
.
.
When Genesis was busy listing the things he had prepared on his tablet, he had to stop and close his eyes.
The Lifestream in his body pulsed lightly.
The former SOLDIER was in deep thought if it was a sign of sort. Was it a warning? Or was it a sign there was someone close who came from Gaia? Genesis wondered if this time he'd find someone who may still remember clearly what had happened back home. Not a person who was reincarnated and would be a blank slate. But then again, the Lifestream in him was still useful. Because it was imbued with the power of life itself, it was very versatile in use; whether he could use it to pinpoint spies that were sneaking up on him, spotting out whether people lied or not, to even note and conclude if a person was dead or not. Genesis didn't like the latter ability. It reminded him about the CIA agent he was close with before he died.
Steve Rogers came into the lobby feeling a bit out of place. Genesis, though, smiled seeing Captain America in the man-in-black uniform. "Looks good on you."
"It feels awkward..." Steve said tugging his neck.
Genesis helped the Super Soldier in getting the tie into a better position and loosen the knot a bit. "It's only for this mission, Steve. There wasn't much left of your old suit. It's being remade with a better material at the moment. You'll just have to mingle with us normal agents for now." When he was finished, Genesis took a step back from his handy work. "There. Better?"
"Yeah. Thanks." Rogers sighed with relief feeling better. "Last time I wore something so formal, was at the war meeting before we attacked the last HYDRA base. Is my shield fine?"
Genesis shrugged. "Vibranium's tough stuff. (9) It got out of the ice better than you did, that's for sure. Don't worry, it'll be together with your new suit once it's done." He didn't mention how Phil had a fanboy moment when he was ordered to make enhancements and was in charge of Cap's costume design. Steve had other worries to think about now. "We're going to the airport, from there it's a flight to our new research facility along with the scientists."
"Who are we escorting?" Steve asked as they both now walked toward the parking lot to a black SUV.
Genesis gave him the general details. "They're a group of biophysicists, along with their families. We're to guard them as some of the individuals are head project officers on Flora sustainability development research. If they succeed there's a chance they'd be able to revolutionize food and natural biomedicine production."
"Wouldn't they be better off at a world research facility than S.H.I.E.L.D.?" Steve asked curiously.
The younger agent shrugged. "There are people who don't like it. Especially people who exploit on famine in third world countries. The scientists could be targeted so they don't find the solution, because to those who exploit hunger to rule, it means they will lose their power over people." They both got into the car and Genesis drove it towards the airport.
After some silence, Steve was bored. Even with the radio on to a channel with jumpy beats, it felt quiet to him. "So you live alone?"
"Yes," Genesis replied.
"No girlfriend?"
A shrug. "I haven't had the time for one. Not after the Director switched me into my current job. Why the questions?"
"You know nearly everything about me," Steve responded. "I hardly know anything about you. We're going to help each other in future missions too."
Genesis couldn't help put his guard up and breathed out. "I have trust issues."
"I know. You've been avoiding more than enough questions from me or the director."
A regal brow was raised. "You're not backing down are you?"
"I'm not a person who backs down easily," Steve said earnestly. "But from your eyes, you look like have you been through a lot."
A lifetime. Genesis would have said that, but he'd never had confessed all his life in Gaia to anyone except the person who was already dead and Phil. "You have no idea."
"Maybe someday I will. If you're willing." was a reply. "I know it's not much, but I'm willing to hear you out if you need someone to ramble to."
The auburn haired agent snorted. "You don't know what you're asking for, Rogers."
"If it means I have to go through countless reciting of Shakespeare or whatever play you throw at me, I'd do it."
"Why?"
"Why what?" Steve asked.
Genesis sighed. "Why are you asking me to be your friend?"
"Why not?" Rogers questioned back. "People who look out for each other are friends."
"I was just doing my job." the former SOLDIER said evasively.
"No, you weren't. If you were just finishing a mission, or a means to an end, you wouldn't have stuck by me and helped me out for a whole week." Steve retorted. He asked carefully, "Is there something in your past that I remind you of?"
Genesis was deathly silent at the question. Too many. But the person he resembled greatly was Angeal. "He died a long time ago... He was my childhood friend." Why was he telling the old-timer? He had no clue.
"He was your brother, wasn't he? He may not be blood-related but you would consider it the same." Steve asked as the drive came to the highway. "Someone who was on your side no matter how bad it got."
"I don't see why you want to help me." He had to wince at remembering Angeal following him when he found out about the G project.
"Look, I've lost someone too, at your age, you shouldn't shoulder the worst of if by yourself." Steve shook his head in amusement, "I don't know why, but– you– you're like him for some odd reason."
"Who?" Genesis asked surprised.
Steve didn't look at Genesis but still answered. "Bucky. He was a natural flirt with the girls, always joked but he knew when things were serious. Even when he found about the Super Soldier Serum in me he still supported me as his friend. But during the mission– he shouldn't have taken it– he died... because of me." There was an uncomfortable long pause. "You know what? Just– forget it– I don't really mean to say you're his replacement– but– I want to move on. So far I don't think I have anyone I can trust besides you."
Two men with same regrets. Genesis couldn't help but feel the irony going full force at work here. Did the Goddess send him here in this world to meet Steve Rogers? Perhaps the other Avengers out of the thought that they had so many things that were the same pains and suffering in the past? Well, maybe it was working. So far, Gaia didn't have anyone else that went through that he did. Hearing Rogers lost his friend in a similar way he lost Angeal was slightly shocking. Genesis only knew the Super Soldier's friend died in a mission as an accident.
Earth was his second chance. It's okay to make new close friends, right? Besides Phil, Natasha, and Clint? The eldest agent was probably going to let Steve into the family anyway... he guessed he could have a head start.
"Alright."
"Huh?"
Genesis sighed with a small smile. "We'll be friends..."
"You won't regret it, Genesis."
"I'm more worried you would." the spy countered. "Trust me; I work with some really odd people."
Curious, Steve frowned. "I've wondered about that. Who's Agent Coulson?"
"He's Phil, the person who was supposed to come along with Lil' Steve back at the community event," Genesis answered. "Full name: Agent Phillip Coulson, and a senior agent. He's my handler and mentor. Also, he's the actual person who was supposed to be the handler for the Avengers Initiative."
"Okay..."
"I'll have to warn you, he's your fan," Genesis smirked as the Super Soldier had a look of dread on his face. "You'd be surprised he's got a whole collection of your trading cards he's managed to collect. He said they took about a few years to get them all."
"Is he going to ask me to sign them?" was an awkward question.
The auburn haired agent shrugged. "Perhaps." There was unease on the blond's face. "What's the matter?"
Steve shook his head. "Just seeing people worshiping me as a hero. I don't think I can get used to it."
"You never did take the time to get used to the fame." Genesis reasoned. "You were on countless of missions while the media were busy on your war stories, which I don't think you'd ever read them at the time."
"So why aren't you like the others?" Steve asked.
"I suppose that's because of chance. I grew up making sure I'd survive on the streets until I was in high school. From there I was focused on my studies so there was a way to get a better life." Genesis didn't say he 'suddenly' existed then, but he stuck with the story that his SHIELD files were. "I never really knew my parents... so I think I just didn't have any sort of hero figure."
"How about who's your family now?"
"They're all SHIELD agents. Phil, you know of, Agent Romanoff, and Agent Barton. The latter two are both on missions." Genesis listed out.
Steve understood, even back in the World War II there was always a small band of brothers that he considered his closest friends. Their drive was a long one towards the airport and Genesis during most of the trip was called again by Fury. Half of the time, it was Genesis who was trying to calm down the director he had everything under control. Paperwork was also discussed over the phone, but then it was the younger agent complaining he'd want a better salary if his superior was going to give him more. Even Phil Coulson didn't get as much, and the elder agent was paid better.
The more casual Genesis was in his numerous phone calls from nearly most divisions that were required in his work, the more Steve was reminded about Bucky. He hadn't meant to push Genesis to fill in the hole Steve had lost long ago. It was an uncanny gut feeling that he was on the right wavelength he would consider someone as a close friend. Rogers didn't know what Genesis' past was really like, but for some reason when Steve spoke of war and how many soldiers fought on the field it was as if the younger agent really understood. Not like one would know by reading textbooks, more of from Genesis' eyes he had gone through such things. But that wasn't possible, right? As far as Steve knew and Fury gave a slightly classified version of Genesis' files, the younger agent was never involved with a war.
At their destination, they were going aboard on a private plane SHIELD had owned. The airplane was a large beast, which had a few large labs that housed a couple of small labs inside. Genesis was already in his element as he converse immediately with the head scientist and making sure all the things they had, was on board. Steve had stuck by near the younger agent and talked when he was introduced to. An hour after a couple of rechecks and inventory finalization they were in the air; their destination was in due another 8 hours.
"You alright, Steve?" Genesis had asked once they were in the air. He was checking on the mission files through his tablet.
"I think so," Steve replied. "What do we do while we're up in the air?"
"Get yourself occupied, but keep your guard up." the former Commander said calmly. "Sometimes the scientists would have things they need help in lifting. Otherwise, you can speak or have a chat with them if they're not too bothered with it."
The Super Soldier nodded. "I think I'd like to stretch my legs a bit."
"I'll be here going through files Fury sent me." Genesis reminded. "You can notify me of anything through the comm. link if there's anything going on."
"Got it."
At Steve's retreating back, Genesis was back going through the files of the scientists on board. He'd rolled his eyes at them when many of them were probably each near in getting a Nobel Prize in what they were to achieve. It was a real shame that back on Gaia ShinRa didn't have such individuals. Save Reeve Tuesti, there wasn't really anyone else who had a name in developing technology breakthroughs in environmental sustainability. ShinRa only cared about the 'Promised Land' and all the Mako it could have held if such a place existed. What they ended up doing was destroying the Planet. At least, on Earth, people were more aware and accepting that they needed to change.
~( Genesis? )~
The auburn haired agent focused his hearing to the comm. link he had. "Steve? Is there something the matter?"
~( Just a small errand. But the Professor here in Lab 2 wants to call his daughter in the greenhouse to help with something. He said she's near your area. Can you call her over? )~
Well, he had nothing better to do. Genesis complied. "I'll escort her there. See you in a few."
~( Thanks. )~
Standing up from his seat, the former SOLDIER headed towards the greenhouse area. He was okay with the greenhouse that SHIELD had. Unlike some greenhouses he encountered, they were pest free. No bugs were around to crawl onto his suit or fly about near him. Genesis on his way there shifted through files to the Professor that requested his daughter, he tapped the file of Lab 2 and stopped dead on his tracks when he read the name labeled on it.
Biophysicist Professor Faremis Gast. (10)
It can't be the very same one that Sephiroth mentioned back then of the only professor he respected, could it?
Genesis quickened his steps towards the greenhouse. There was only one way to find out. When he got to the greenhouse door, he slashed his keycard swiftly and entered. The smell of flora was evident through his nose, but his sense of the Lifestream was a lot stronger, confusing him. His head wandered around until he bumped into a girl.
"Sorry~!"
Genesis blinked and was face to face with the very same girl he had met in the Lifestream before. He gulped as his body was statue still from the shock.
Aerith Gainsborough.
He quickly snapped up in attention as he masked his face on focusing the task he needed to do. "My apologies. I wasn't looking. Your father was looking for you. Umm– Professor Gast mentioned about getting him samples?"
"Oh!" the girl gasped as she was reminded of something she forgot. "I was taking care of my flowers here. There are a couple of trays my dad should want that are stored here. What's your name?"
Genesis' throat felt dry when she didn't recognize him. "Agent Rhapsodos."
"I'm Aerith Gast." She smiled sweetly at him. "Come on Mr. Rhapsody~! I could use the help." She quickly went deeper into the greenhouse before Genesis could correct her, leaving a dumbfounded auburn poet on his own.
He couldn't quite believe that he just talked with the Puppy's girlfriend. Genesis looked on the Professor's file again, noticing that her mother was Ifalna Gast. In this world, they were a family. They weren't all tragically killed one after the other. They probably were alive here for a second chance at life too. Distraught and feeling hopeless, Genesis' heart dropped to the pit of his stomach. Did it mean that people who were from Gaia were fated to not remember?
No; not after all he went through... he needed to make sure– No– Wanted to make sure.
Desperate but determined at the same time, he found the girl taking out a couple of tray samples out. There were numerous of seeds in varying stages of growth in each tray. Being silent wasn't going to give any clues to what answers he sought for. "Which trays should I take, Aerith?"
Aerith tapped her chin with carefree attitude while she was looking at them. "Take the red ones, but that's after I fill them in with more samples from this tray here."
"May I help?" Genesis asked.
She smiled. "The more the merrier!"
As he helped the flower girl, Genesis asked, "Aren't you supposed to be in school?"
"High school by my age." was a chipper reply. "But since mom and dad work for SHIELD, I have tutors come in. I'm really good at my studies I leaped a few years. Right now, I'm taking my first-year university studies."
That was a surprise for Genesis. "What course?"
"Biology. I plan to help my parents on their work, and SHIELD promised I could work for them if I keep my grades up and work hard." Aerith said proudly of her achievements. "You're the youngest agent I've seen around here, Mr. Rhapsody. How old are you?"
"I'm already 23. And it's Rhapsodos." the auburn haired agent deadpanned.
Aerith nodded. "That makes sense." She then teased him, "I like Rhapsody better. Do you like poetry?"
"Very dearly," Genesis admitted.
"That's sweet. Can I hear you recite something?" the girl asked.
Genesis wasn't sure what she wanted. "What do you wish to hear?"
"Hmm, I'm not familiar with poetry. How about your favorite?"
"It's lengthy, and your father wishes you to get the samples quickly."
"Your most favorite part then."
He was hesitant and even afraid. However, he spoke the last lines of LOVELESS by heart, "Even if the morrow is barren of promises, Nothing shall forestall my return... To become the dew that quenches the land..."
Aerith quickly interrupted him and continued, "To spare the sands, the seas, the skies... I offer thee this silent sacrifice." When Genesis spluttered she added, "Just because the Goddess Minerva is worlds away, it doesn't mean she doesn't watch over her children who are far from her."
Genesis froze. "Y-you– You remember?"
"Don't think the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing, because it was here first." ~ Mark Twain
(Cliffhanger) TBC...
Notes/Trivia:
(1) Tony Stark vs General Ross: this scene is seen at the end of the Incredible Hulk Movie, further explained in the Marvel short movie 'the Consultant'. A disgraced Ross sits drinking in a bar, when he is approached by Stark, who ends up annoying Ross so much that Ross tries to have him removed from the bar. In reply, Stark buys the bar, and schedules it for demolition. The Abomination is not released from prison because of this. - Marvel movie wiki.
(2) Haste: A spell used in many of the FF series. In FFVII this particular spell is shared inside a Time Materia in its level 1 spell. Like its name, it speeds ups the character's speed resulting using turns more frequently than the enemy.
(3) Weapon X is secret government genetic research facility project conducted by the Canadian Government's Department K, which turns willing and unwilling beings into living weapons. The project often captures mutants and experiments on them to enhance their superpowers and turning them into weapons and also mutates baseline humans. The Weapon X Project produced Wolverine, Leech, and other characters such as Deadpool and Sabretooth – Wiki.
(4) Stop: A spell that also resides in the Time Materia in FFVII. It causes a status alignment that freezing/stops an enemy or character from movie as their time is halted as long as the alignment lasts. A variaton middle spell of this is Slow, the opposed effect of Haste.
(5) Materia spells chronologically: Quake is an earth based Materia spell which causes a tremor on the ground taking enemies. Silence: a spell that restrains magic incantation (silences magicians of their voices). Sleepel: a status alignment which causes the affect to be in deep sleep. Escape: a spell in the Exit Materia that can help the user or along with the party escape from battles.
(6) Hawkeye's Apartment according to the 2012 comics based on him is located within this area of New York.
(7) Katie Bishop and Bobbi Morse. Some of Hawkeye's love interests according to the comics. Katie Bishop is a second bowmen to Clint and once took the mantel of Hawkeye when at one time he served as the hero, Ronin. Bobbi Morse is a former SHIELD agent who graduated on top her class (in the fic's case still in the Division). She's also well-known in the comics as the heroine, Mockingbird.
(8) Limit Breaks, also known simply as Limits, are powerful combat moves featured in several FF titles. It is said when a person's spirit energy rises to its ultimate limit, for a short while it aligns with and emits from the person's body. Limit Breaks are often among the most damaging moves for every character, typically capable of destroying enemies. Several Limit Breaks have developed into various characters' signature moves. Zack's original Limit break is Chain Slash. - FF Wiki
(9) Vibranium is the alloy used by Howard Stark to create Captain America's Shield (Avengers Movie). Howard states that vibranium is stronger than and a third of the weight of steel, is completely vibration-absorbent. It was strong enough to resist several laser projections from the HYDRAs guns, powered by the Tesseract in Captain America: the First Avenger. - Marvel Movie Wiki
(10) Professor Faremis Gast was the head of Shinra's Science Research Department. Unlike his colleagues, the later successor, Professor Hojo and Dr. Hollander, he pursued wisdom for its own sake, rather than using it to gain power. He was brutally murdered when ShinRa hunted what were remains of the Cetra, Ifalna and their daughter Aerith.
Comments, opinions, your thoughts, very much welcomed.