S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Rhapsosdos: Taking the Backseat

Disclaimer: Refer to the Prologue Chapter. [Last Edit January 1st, 2016]

AU Notes: Thanks to those who have Favorited and alerted this fic: Menooshuh, Eggbert 3000, Lazy Historian, Aquasrn, haha42, CommentatorInThePeanutGallery, Krystal Nytemare, Anonymous Legacy, Anira De'Ember, tomorrow4eva, Hypnosis Writer, child-of-paradox-and-chaos, DHB-Spike, truevampireprincess,Jane Lucas, Warriorsqueen, Raging Berseker, and Lixem.

Giving away digital avengers action figures and plushies thanks to our Reviewers: yorushihe, 3hourmonologue, YunaBlaze, HatchetChu, Guest, Dannichigo, drake202, huntress dream, riem-chan, GeminixDragon, Basia Orci, Kitsune Foxfire, angelxofxmine, and Jordan. Thank you for your support on this fic! Now – I've seen a lot of people asking about how Genesis concerns with Loki and even many of the Avenger members. Originally this fic could have been Cloud as the main character, but when I weighed the pros and cons, Genesis won by a long shot just how much his experiences were uncannily familiar with the Avengers (including the villain Loki). All in good time, I promise you. Well, this chapter isn't posted on the weekend, so I hope it can brighten up your day/night at least with what I deliver.

Like always...

Enjoy!

~ Chapter 5: A Helping Hand ~

"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Genesis just stood there frozen like a statue, completely utterly speechless. Both Angeal and Sephiroth would have been shocked in the past if they ever saw him like this. No one was as talkative or, at least, argumentative as the auburn Commander of the Materia Unit. He was known to be the most expressive of the trinity three. However, in this sort of situation, it just got too overwhelming that no words came out of his mouth. He was scared stiff that this was a dream that was too good to be true; if he woke up it would end up as a nightmare that this moment never existed. The former WEAPON tried opening his mouth again, but nothing came out. Honestly, he felt like a fool for being so flustered to speak in front of a girl younger than him.

"I'm sorry," the girl apologized. "I just wanted to make sure." The auburn agent chose not to say anything, but let the girl explain. "But when I asked you what was your name, you had a look you were about to break..."

"It's been rather lonely." Genesis finally said something, but his voice came out as a weak croak. He breathed out bitterly, "I-I... Too many times... always a blank slate... You're the first... in a very long while."

Aerith smiled up at that and gently held the auburn haired agent by his arms looking into his eyes. "It's going to be okay. I thought you would have more faith in the Goddess than many would. But you have been doubting because you've been alone all this time."

Genesis blinked at the hint, surprised, "There's another with you?"

"My mother." the flower girl replied. "I'm only half-Cetra. I remembered when I was 10 years old because of a memory trigger. But my mother... she's remembered what happened back home all her life. Including when she first met father."

"Just you and your mother?"

A solemn nod. "Yes. I don't know of any others, except for you. Mother was the first one to notice of the Lifestream in you when you entered this plane. Yours was far more intact than my father's. I guess that's how you're aware of your past life."

Genesis shook his head. "I wasn't born here, Aerith. Minerva took me here, just like that. I simply 'existed' here... far younger than what I was supposed to be."

"But as a SHIELD agent now?" the girl asked curiously. "I never thought you'd take a job like a Turk. I had the idea that you resented anything to do with them. You can imagine my surprise when I found out you're some super spy."

A chuckle left Genesis's mouth, he was actually smiling. He never had felt this free after coming to Earth, free to talk with someone back from home. "Things change. Some old habits die hard. I have obligations now, and I took this job because I promised someone to look after another."

A nod of understanding. "Are you happy with that?"

"It's been entertaining. That certain person thinks it's the other way around." Genesis smirked. "Reminds me of home, just with more variants of weird people and things." His smile died down. "But I've been meeting people I recognize that are dead on Gaia here... with no memories... I never thought I've ever felt so alone in a crowd. I joined SHIELD because I wanted to find them."

"Your friends?"

"If possible, Fair as well," Genesis said softly. Green eyes looked hurt, and he quickly corrected himself. "My apologies– I owe him..."

Aerith shook her head. "It's alright. I've been wondering where he is here in this world. He took this second chance too. But I'm not sure if I'd ever meet him again or he would remember. Earth is a lot larger than Gaia ever was. Our fates might not meet."

The silence in the room was an awkward affair, but the two seem content that finding each other it eased their hearts a little.

"So, will you help me with the samples?" Aerith started their conversation again.

Genesis shook his head in amusement. "I don't have anything else to do while we're stuck in the air until we get to the new facility." He went back moving samples that Aerith instructed him moments ago. "I don't wish for your father to report of having complications from any agent I'm responsible for while we're on the move. Fury will have my neck for failing a relatively simple mission. My friend, the fates are cruel... "

The younger girl giggled. "Your thing for dramatics is returning."

"Very few know it on Earth," Genesis smirked to himself. "Then again, the Director can be such a slave driver at times. The amount of work he throws at me is sometimes preposterous."

"How long are you staying with us? With our scientist group?" Aerith asked excitedly to actually have another person from back they originally came from.

"That depends on the situation. At minimal, perhaps 24 hours to 48 hours of standby time. I'm keeping my ears open for reports or calls."

Aerith beamed. "Good! Mother would want to talk to you. Think you can take three stacked trays of samples?"

"I can take ten, but that would be conspicuous to the other agents on the plane," Genesis responded. "Only certain people with certain levels of clearance know about my real strength, skills, and abilities."

"Take five then." Aerith nodded. "It should be enough for my dad." She lifted up her two trays of samples. "Lead the way, Mr. Rhapsody!"

Genesis snorted as he made his way to the door with samples in hand. "I'm not going to hear the end of that nickname, am I?"

"It's better than Moogle isn't it?" the girl noted.

"Moogle?" (1)

Aerith innocently replied, "They have an affinity for magic..."

"..."

"Too cute?"

"Just– stick with the former." the auburn haired spy said dryly.

The walk to Lab 2 was a short one. Even though the plane was larger than most commercial planes, it wasn't as big as an Airbus type. As the two walked, Genesis was quite aware of the Lifestream flow that the young Cetra emitted. It was soft, soothing, and much at peace. His own Lifestream in him was reacting to it like it hadn't seen a friend in a long while (which was true), poking and prodding hers in a playful game. Truthfully he wasn't sure why it was acting that way, but every time it did, Aerith seemed to want to laugh. The Lifestream was a part of them, but also an entity on its own. Usually, Genesis was more acquainted with it in missions that had something to do with dangerous situations, telling him of things that were going on at the battlefield. To feel it acting this way puzzled him.

"It does not bother me, Genesis," Aerith spoke in a low voice behind him. "Don't be so surprised, it is a part of you. So to speak, you've missed having someone from Gaia dearly." This time, her Lifestream flow seemed to take to the challenge and did its own relentless teasing pokes to his.

Genesis shrugged. "I'm not used to it feeling so... happy. All this time, it's been the one watching over me in missions."

"Wait until you meet mother's." the flower girl giggled back.

"You know of a quiet place in the other facility to have our chat?" Genesis asked. "We are going into a SHIELD facility."

"Private living areas don't have cameras or the bugs or the like," she answered. "If there was, mom's good at destroying them and throwing them in the bin."

Genesis raised a questioning brow. "She sounds like a spitfire."

"She is!" Aerith exclaimed happily. "Father's nearly always driven with his research, so Mother is usually the one to remind him what's the time."

"Remind me not to get on her bad side," he commented. When they arrived at Lab 2's door, Genesis stepped to the side, "Ladies first."

The flower girl walked in first and Genesis followed her in an equal pace. Like she had said, her father was observing his work on a microscope in examining a sample, very much ignoring anyone who was going in or out. However, his tone said otherwise. "Aerith? You brought me my samples?"

"Six trays. Agent Rhapsodos is helping me here, Dad." Aerith said back.

"Great! That should be enough to examine before we land!" the Professor turned to Genesis in a nod. "Well! I didn't expect you to be so young! We could use some help with people who have younger spirit than old bones! Your friend Rogers is helping my wife at the back."

Genesis put the samples where Aerith had put hers carefully, before taking out his tablet. "We have a couple of agents on this ship along with technicians. Have you been assigned technicians and agents to your team when we get to the facility, Professor?"

Professor Gast crossed his arms. "I've got three technicians, no agents so far. Since my wife likes Agent Rogers, I think we can assign him with us."

"He happens to be my current partner, Professor," Genesis said.

"That makes it convenient. You two with us, then." the biophysicist ordered. "The other scientists can take the others. Some agents are far too quiet for my liking or Ifalna's. Your friend is a polite one, and since Aerith seems to be happy with you, I think you're better off with us too."

Genesis was delighted with that decision and sorted his and Steve's name on the tablet for the current mission roster. That meant he could talk more with Ifalna and Aerith during this mission. "Very well, Sir. I'll make sure the other agents know of it. Is there anything else I can do for you?"

Gast dismissively waved a hand, "Not yet. Like I said, these samples should last me until we land. I think you and Aerith can help my wife at the back." He went back to observing his work.

Genesis didn't get a chance to say 'yes, Sir' as Aerith quickly dragged Genesis towards the back. If it weren't for his SOLDIER reflexes, he would have tripped. "What's the rush?"

"Mom wants to meet you," Aerith said. While her face was turned the other way, he could still hear the amusement in her voice. "Her Lifestream flow is excited."

The auburn mage had to focus a little to find it, but once he did, he was overtaken with a flood of Lifestream flow like he was tipped over as an older but stronger energy tendril poked him. It wasn't as powerful in terms of sheer strength as his, but all the same, it was a very vibrant flow display of life.

"That... wasn't what I expected."

"She likes surprising people like that." the girl dragged him said, smiling.

The next lab was slightly smaller than the Professor's but with the boxes being moved to neater stacks and other objects to the sides of the wall, it felt wider. Unlike the other room, this one didn't have as much clutter or observation hardware. Mostly, it stored research notes and computers that were stuck to the tables and walls of the plane itself. Inside was a woman wearing a lab coat, so much like Aerith but unlike her daughter, she was very lively– especially how she ordered the Super Soldier around and sweetly praised him for his help. Steve was blushing and trying to shrug it off so miserably, Genesis had to hold a chuckle by disguising it as a cough.

"Genesis?" Steve turned to look at him in relief. "You're here."

At Ifalna's raised brow, Genesis introduced himself. "I'm Agent Rhapsodos, or by my first name as Agent Rogers said Genesis."

"Professor Ifalna Gast," The full Cetra introduced herself taking the young agent's hand. "I see you've met and dragged my daughter out of the greenhouse. That's a good sign. It's difficult to separate her from her flowers." she jested.

"Mom!" Aerith protested with a small smile. "Dad wanted samples, and Mr. Rhapsody here was helpful in carrying some sample trays here."

"Mr. Rhapsody?" Steve held his laughter. "New nickname?"

Genesis resisted rolling his eyes at the blond. "It stuck. I wasn't left with a choice," he bluffed. He didn't mention the other choice because it was more embarrassing-more importantly it would be a dead giveaway he wasn't from Earth.

"Your friend?" Aerith asked.

"This is Agent Rogers. He also goes by Steve," he introduced. If it weren't for his SOLDIER enhancements, Genesis probably wouldn't have noticed Steve wasn't comfortable and would shift his stance with the title 'Agent'. He was a real soldier through and through. The only chance he was going to ever be called an agent was this mission.

"Nice to meet you, Miss," Steve said as formal as ever.

The teen smiled back. "Just call me Aerith." Mischievously, she turned back to her mother. "He must have really impressed you, Mom, if you want him to escort us back to the facility."

"He's polite and a sweetheart." Her mother winked at her.

At Aerith's tap of her chin, Genesis was somewhat aware what was to unfold.

"Okay!" She decided. "Your nickname will be Mr. Golden Retriever!"

Poor Steve had to do a double take on her sudden bold declaration while both Genesis and Ifalna laughed. If Ifalna made him blush, Aerith made his face feel hot red. He truthfully didn't know whether he should say anything about it, not wanting to offend the young girl. His soldier mind was reminding him that this was his first mission. Rogers couldn't do anything to the women, but he did shove an elbow to the younger agent's side and made him grunt.

"Ack!" Genesis stumbled, but he was still smiling. "She did hit right on the mark, besides the looks... it suits your nature."

"Shut it, Genesis." the Super Soldier muttered.

Aerith pouted at Steve, grabbing his attention. "You don't like it?"

This time, Genesis had to cover his mouth and look away with giddiness from the Super Soldier. From the way Aerith played her 'guilt trip pout' with a pleading voice, was just too much for him to hold his laughter back. Steve seemed to have a weakness for innocent girls and too bad the flower girl wasn't afraid to use it. Obviously, Steve looked rather torn and realized he made a mistake that would upset the Professor's daughter. If Genesis wasn't so professional, he would have been rolling over with laughter on the floor.

"I-I...Um... Er..."

"Aerith!" he mother scolded her softly. Ifalna then quickly brushed it off, "Don't mind my daughter, Agent Rogers. However if you don't mind, her giving other people nicknames is her way of wanting to be your friend."

"I don't mind at all, ma'am." Steve shrugged timidly. He calmed himself a little when Genesis whispered to him softly that it's just for fun before the auburn haired spy put on a poker face. At times like this, he wasn't sure whose side Genesis was on.

Back to business, Ifalna nodded. "Now, I think we still have a lot to sort through. Agent Rhapsodos?"

"Yes, Professor?" Genesis asked her by her title.

"Have you and Agent Rogers assigned yourselves to guard any of the scientists on this plane when you'll arrive at the facility?" she asked.

A smile. "Actually, your husband requested us to be assigned to him. So we'll both be joining you for as long as the duration of this mission."

"Wonderful!" Ifalna beamed. To the Super Soldier, she said, "Can you be a good dear and have those boxes on the side and get them to the storage room?" A nod but Steve had an expression on confusion where it was. "Oh, Aerith will show you the way."

With the other two leaving the room and a good distance away from enhanced hearing, Genesis took it as he cue to begin a long-awaited conversation. "Is this place clean of unwanted ears?"

"Yes, cleaner than our recent facility no doubt," Ifalna replied. "If there was any, the Lifestream inside us will tell us." She strode to Genesis and gave him a hug. Her own flow of Lifestream followed its mistress' example hugging the energy happily from Genesis' own Lifestream.

Again that day, Genesis was left dumbfounded, even though he was thankful for it. "Mrs. Gast?"

She let him go and smiled. "I'm glad we found you. So far those who we know of are just my daughter and me."

"Thank you, I wasn't expecting to meet you or Aerith," Genesis admitted. "I thought my search would end up as a lost cause. I was about to give up within a year if I didn't find anyone."

Ifalna agreed. "It seems the Goddess is truly kind in our second chance." She walked over to the table and ushered Genesis to sit opposite of her. "Perhaps you have many questions in need of answers."

The auburn haired agent sat where she indicated. "Are you aware of anyone else that may have taken a second chance?"

A sigh. "No. Most decisions were very much private for everyone. Some agreed to it, others were happier to sleep peacefully in death while others were reborn as a gift without them knowing." The true Cetra shuffled in her seat to the side. "You are aware that there's a flow of Lifestream here, Genesis?"

Genesis nodded. "It's not as visible in Gaia. However, the strength is just as the same... if you know how to tap into it and have enough yourself. Is there a possible reason that Earth and Gaia are related?"

"I don't have all the answers," Ifalna said. "But just as the Norse Gods, Minerva once upon a time was here."

Genesis tensed up when he heard of such information. "You're aware of them?"

"I'm quite aware at Project P.E.G.A.S.U.S. there's something there that doesn't belong in this realm but it belongs to the Norse Gods."

Silence.

"It's because the Lifestream told you?" Genesis asked, ending the tense atmosphere himself. He used his jesting nature to mask his wariness. "You're more attuned to it aren't you, Mrs. Gast?"

A small smile. "Whether it's here or even back at home, not a day single day goes by I don't hear it, Genesis. It speaks of many things. But even now She watches over you, for you are her most loyal follower."

"Far from it," Genesis sighed, not really believing her words. "I thought the Cetra are." (2)

"She favors her heroes. Those who are close back at home, or worlds away." Ifalna said cryptically. "That agent who is with you has a thread of fate of a hero in this world. I don't think such a meeting would be a mere coincidence, Genesis."

The auburn haired ex-SOLDIER was quiet before he spoke, "I never believed it was a coincidence... but what does it mean? What does She want me to do?" There was a reason why Earth was his second chance, was there?

"Choose your own path this time," Ifalna said with conviction. "You've done your part and sacrifices on Gaia, do what you wish to do whatever your concerns are. This life has struggles, but don't forget that it is also Her gift."

Genesis couldn't help but feel awed at her information. Most his of the initial weight he had on his shoulders felt lighter. He gave the Cetra his own question, "Are you talking from experience?"

A humble nod. "I never would dream living with my family again in a second life. Now I have three daughters."

This new information caused the auburn haired agent's eyes to widen. "Three?"

"You haven't met the smaller twins yet, Genesis. They're in the lounging area away from the labs." Ifalna brushed it off easily. "It was what could have been if Faremis and I weren't involved with ShinRa chasing us."

"I must say that's impressive." Genesis breathed out, taking it in. "I certainly wasn't expecting that. I'll take your words to heart, Mrs. Gast."

"You may call me Ifalna." the professor permitted.

"Just how much are our worlds interlinked with each other?" Genesis questioned wanting more clarifications.

Ifalna frowned. "Is there a problem?"

Now Genesis was on guard but only mentioned, "I know a few things, but by my clearance level there are things that I'm sensing we might cause some trouble in the near future. I'd rather not be specific on it, the Director demands it."

"Much more than you think it is." the professor answered. "Whatever SHIELD has underground at the P.E.G.A.S.U.S. Facility, it's stirring as if it's awakening from a deep sleep."

The former SOLDIER didn't like hearing that, especially when Phil and Clint were very, very close to the source of the problem: the Tesseract. If things end up worse, that could also mean Steve wasn't too far away of getting dragged into it too, because the Tesseract was involved with Schmitt's plans in taking over the world during WWII. It wasn't Ifalna's business to know, but he'd decided to give some small clues away just for good measure. "It's the reason why you're being moved to our other facility. Safety measures."

"I see." At Genesis' blank face, she knew. "It's all I need to hear, Genesis. I won't intrude on your responsibilities."

"Thank you," said Genesis with appreciation. "Is there anything else I can help you with during this flight?"

"All is left is just sorting out a cabinet file, if you're not too busy." Ifalna pointed to one side of the room. "I wish to see my younger daughters for a while."

"No, not at all." Genesis complied. "I'll guard this lab while you're out."

"You need a drink? I'll be on my way from the lounge area."

"Coffee will be sufficient."

A nod. "I'll be back in 30 minutes or so." And the Cetra left.

Genesis combed his hair back before letting it fall back in place with a large sigh. Even though he was now sorting the cabinet, his mind was elsewhere. 'So, that bad feeling was right.' he thought worriedly on the other two agents he got to know as his family. He was more than surprised to find out so many things from Ifalna... but there were still some questions left unanswered. Why Earth? Why not some other realm like Thor's? Or those other realms connected by the Bifrost bridge?

On the subject of the God of Thunder, it was a sign that somehow he was going to be involved. Knowing they were in the air, Genesis cursed he could only contact Coulson or Clint in another 7 hours more, give or take. It wasn't like he can use the public lines on the plane so freely– too much-classified information was at stake. Even then, he wasn't sure if he would be able to contact them. His current mission was his main priority.

And Steve Rogers...

For some reason or hunch, Genesis knew Ifalna was aware Steve wasn't as young as he appeared to be. If there was something that the Lifestream can tell clearly, it was the age of people. For her to know that the man was an actual hero had blown the auburn mage away (which he hid carefully). Perhaps it was expected as she still had her ties as a Cetra descendant.

Nonetheless, it was very much the same with Director Nick Fury. Not many knew he was a lot older than he looked. He was related to Steve about the Serum more than people thought he was. (3)

Genesis was deep in thought how the Cetra had said that his life right now was his to live. He would decide on what things were, with the options laid out to him. Truthfully he was tired in being the hero, a reason why he avoided any sort of spotlight on him... his second reason was because he wanted to make amends. If this second life was truly a gift for second chances... then he knew what his goals were.

He'd keep searching for his friends, and Zack Fair, whilst watching over the Avengers members as the back crew. He'd owe it to them, and his new friends on Earth.

.

.

The familiar view of the school came to his vision as he rode into the grounds with his motorcycle.

A cigar in his mouth and the wavy wind blowing in his face was enough to make the burly mutant content just to be home from his trip. Steering his vehicle to the parking area, he was rather thoughtful of a recent increase of students at the school. Maybe the others were busy since he had been gone? Looks like it. However, there seemed to be a vibe of gossip and action going on and he was certain the matter involved his friends and the Professor. He promptly parked his bike with ease, swung his duffel bag on his back, and walked his way to Xavier's office. On his way there, though, he managed to pass a fountain. There was a blond-haired teen freezing the water.

"Bobby, you are going to unfreeze that after you're done?" (4)

"Holy crap!" the teen yelled not hearing the older mutant walking behind him. He turned around and was faced with the larger X-Men member. "Logan!" he recognized that older mutant anywhere. The man was usually in charge of the danger room and trained the new mutants in fighting skills, being one of the few teachers so versatile in many forms of fighting. His hair was thicker and sideburns a bit dangling, a note to anyone he had been out on a long trip.

"Well, kid?"

The blond teen hesitated with a shrug, "It'll melt on its own. I promised some kids who wanted to go ice skating."

Wolverine decided he wasn't going to push it. "Fine. Don't say I didn't warn you if Scott finds out." Cyclops was known to be a stickler for rules, and he wasn't the one to enforce them on students unless they did something plain stupid and getting themselves killed for it. He inhaled his cigar a bit and let out smoke. "So, what's with the vibe all about on campus?"

"Vibe?"

"Everyone seems to be worked up about something," Logan mentioned like it was the most evident thing in the world.

"Oh!" Bobby said and understood what Wolverine was asking. "There are some kids that came to the Institute about a week ago or so. There's a teen named Zack and he's got some pretty cool powers. He can make ice like I can, but he can also use fire and lightning too."

"An elemental mutant?" Wolverine asked.

A shrug. "I dunno. I don't think so. I mean the first time before that, he froze a slushie in mid-air like he stopped time, then in a few other classes, he's managed to silence people, make a small earthquake, and even teleport. Ororo thinks he's got more powers, Jean can't read his mind, and Scott's overworked trying to figure him out."

The cigar in his mouth dropped down. "Are you serious?"

"How else is the campus worked up by something?" Bobby pointed out.

Wolverine turned around and made up his mind to ask the Professor about it. "Later, Bobby. Don't forget to thaw your work later."

Noticing the cigar left on the ground, Bobby pointed at it freezing it in place. Better frozen than having it accidentally set anything on fire.

.

.

What started off sorting out through the storage room, eventually turned out to be a gardening outing, as he was dragged away by the girl to help her take care with her flowers back in the greenhouse.

Steve wondered if it was by sheer luck that Genesis was capable of dragging Professor Gast's daughter out of her favorite place. Aerith, like her mother, said, had an endless supply of energy to focus solely on her flowers. Something that the Super Soldier was aware that she'll make a good scientist herself like her parents in the long run.

He was starting to worry that the younger agent would need his help back at the labs. However, they were assigned to the two scientists now. Aerith's father was busy with examining his samples and for the most part, and wouldn't want to be bothered anyway. As for Mrs. Gast... Steve wasn't in a hurry to blush far too frequently during the 8-hour flight and decided that the auburn haired spy was more capable in handling that. Despite the fact that the young girl was calling him with his new nickname, Rogers wasn't too worked up about it as before. Aerith had a calming effect that the Super Soldier couldn't describe, along with her spirited personality that made his work much easier.

Rogers would stay out of the walkways in the greenhouse, but he'd guard at the right places making sure he had an eye on his charge. To Aerith who would take care of her flowers and steal glimpses of her new bodyguard, she would be constantly reminded of her time back at the church in Midgar. She would giggle mysteriously at times to her guard, earning her a confused look. It was just like her times when the Turks watched over her. Tseng was an authoritative watcher, Rude would pull a poker face as if things weren't any different, and Reno... he'd stole a few winks here and there with her or some flirty smiles and dismiss it like it was nothing. From Steve's demeanor, he wasn't like a Turk or agent at all. His stance was a proud but humble one, having an air of someone from the military like a SOLDIER.

"Hmm... Maybe your nickname is supposed to be Mr. Soldier."

"Huh?" Steve blinked. There she was again, saying things rather random it would confuse him.

Aerith explained as she put a seeded pot down. "You're more like a soldier than an agent, Mr. Rogers."

"Am I that obvious?" The Super Soldier sighed. He was rather glad Genesis reminded to try not make bets about it. The auburn haired spy said that Steve wasn't the best of actors.

The professor's daughter shrugged. "I just don't think it's in your personality to lie. I think that's the only problem. You like staying true to yourself, right?" A nod. "Then be yourself, Mr. Golden Retriever~!"

Steve just had to ask, "Why do you think I'm a golden retriever?"

"Because by what mom says and what I've been observing, you're a good person. Golden retrievers are known to want to serve others and do good things." Aerith answered easily. "You may be a soldier, but being a good person is what really counts."

"So you're sticking to your original idea?" Rogers questioned. A happy nod. "I guess I can't argue with that. I'm curious, though... about why you gave Genesis his nickname by his last name."

"Well..." Aerith started giving it a thought. "He likes reciting poetry and quotes when he talks. And... I think he nearly always takes on a role in any given situation. He's like an actor on a stage."

Steve laughed. "You're not wrong about that, Miss."

Aerith sighed and lightly poked a finger on his muscled arm. "How many times I have to tell you to call me Aerith, and not 'Miss'?"

"Force out of habit." the Super Soldier said. His mother's teachings haven't worn off as she drilled everything about being polite to others into his head. These days were just different from back then. He shifted and thought of an idea to get the attention off of him. "Does it feel lonely at times following your parents, Aerith? I don't think you see your peers around here often."

The flower girl nodded. "It does get lonely sometimes. But I think it's okay. Mom complains I can't go to a school prom to dance and find a boyfriend. Dad says the opposite, he's happy he doesn't need to fend off the boys." Steve chuckled at that. "Do you already have someone, Mr. Rogers?"

Peggy Carter slipped into his mind instantly. Steve now seemed a bit distant. "It's... complicated. I haven't met her in a long while." For nearly 7 decades was left unsaid.

"You're afraid she moved on?" Aerith asked.

"Something along those lines. I promised her when I'd meet her and I'd dance with her... it never happened."

Aerith silently watched over Steve's forlorn face. The Cetra was reminded of the same face Zack wore in the Lifestream when they both first met after so many years. Her boyfriend then had asked for her forgiveness that he couldn't make it back to her. He didn't mean to leave her in the dark, that a lot of bad things happened he couldn't make it back to her no matter how hard he tried. She forgave Zack then, and knew he returned to the Lifestream when he died in front of Midgar. That was the path they both followed, as fate guided them back on Gaia. Another glance, the flower girl knew Steve hadn't meant to leave the person he was thinking of.

A few whispers in her mind, Aerith heard of what the Lifestream in her was telling her. Steve Rogers was one of this world's chosen heroes. He was older than he looked, decades older than he was supposed to be. 'That explains why he talks as if it was supposed to happen a long time ago.' she thought sadly. Aerith took another moment to hear what else the Lifestream was telling her and found out that the person the temporary agent thought of was alive. He was afraid of meeting his loved one. The Cetra wasn't one for sadness, so she took her own initiative to make the blond happier. Seriously, the way he was right now was like Cloud when he brooded... and this world didn't need any brooding Strifes.

"Can I ask you a few questions?"

Steve was startled at her change of tone. "I guess so."

"Why not meet her?" Aerith questioned. "It's better late than never."

"What should I do when I meet her?" the blond asked back confusedly.

Aerith put her hands on her hips and smiled at him. "Dance with her, silly! Like you promised." When Steve looked like he was avoiding her, she took a step closer looking in his eyes, "You know, I don't know why you couldn't meet her back then, but... I think she'll be really grateful to hear the truth why you couldn't make it. Your job is dangerous."

Steve already promised Genesis he'd be looking for the manila folder when he'll meet Peggy. There was another problem he faced when it came to the girl's suggestion.

Seeing the man froze in front of her, Aerith waved her hand trying to get his attention. "Helloooo~!"

"Um– Yes, Aerith?"

"What's wrong?" the flower girl asked him curiously.

Steve blushed when she answered her. "I can't dance."

He waited for her to laugh, but it never came.

"I can't dance too," Aerith raised her hand said understanding his problem. "But I'm sure we can learn if we had the right teacher." She had a thoughtful look before she triumphantly clapped her hands. "We'll have Mr. Rhapsody teach us!"

"Genesis?" Steve raised a brow disbelievingly.

A white lie. "He mentioned that he knows a few things in the drama arts, including dancing the waltz," Aerith mentioned. She knew about Genesis' skills from the Lifestream back on Gaia. With his aristocratic upbringing, it wasn't all that surprising. What Genesis or Steve didn't know wouldn't hurt them.

"Are you sure he'll agree?" The Super Soldier wasn't confident about her proposal.

Aerith had that knowing smile she wore when she was sure it'd work out. "I'll persuade him."

.

.

When Logan met with this 'teen' that was the talk of the campus, he was stumped. He wasn't expecting a young man who was so vibrant that many would think he was diagnosed with ADHD. The kid couldn't stay still, he was very restless like he'd been pumped with sugar and steroids at the same time. With black spikes and he had an expression he was just too friendly or innocent you wouldn't ever expect he'd turn up as an evil villain, very eager to make friends. To think that this person was the person who had so many abilities that baffled most of the Xavier Institute staff was enough to make Logan feel like he could use a drink like beer.

Zack Fair proved his musings wrong when they all agreed that he'd get some training from him (Wolverine). It was an odd request that Scott made him let the kid fight with swords. While Logan was familiar to use them, he questioned Cyclops' sanity of letting a kid that never trained in martial arts (according to Zack's database on what Beast dug up). Logan was more than surprised when he sped up his maneuvers the spiky teen was following his pace, even at some points the faster movements Logan did, were evaded. His stances whether attacks, defense, parries, were all perfect in terms of their positions one would expect from an expert. Nonetheless, the kid was doing it on auto-pilot which meant he wasn't exactly doing it consciously, letting his body move on his own.

Wolverine deliberately let his arm get nicked by the boy's sword and he hissed, stopping the fight altogether.

Zack panicked. "Holy crap! Sorry! Are you-"

"Don't worry kid, I heal quickly." Logan interrupted, so the kid would stop their fight. His blood stopped bleeding and quickly knitted itself up with new skin. Seconds later, there was no sign he had any slash injury before.

"Wow." Zack's mouth gaped, still staring at the arm.

Logan frowned. "I thought you have this ability too?"

"Not as fast as yours though." the teen noted. He then leaned to one leg as he stood. "So what do you think?"

"You're doing everything unconsciously." Logan shook his head, "I don't like it. As long as you keep your body doing the thinking, you're dangerous."

Zack shoulders sagged and he looked crestfallen at Logan's words.

From the back of the room which was filled with spectators, Scott spoke up, "Logan, you don't have to be so harsh. We're all helping him to pinpoint out what he's capable of."

"Stay out of this, One Eye," Wolverine growled. "I'm the one training him right now." He then turned to Beast who was hanging up on some training bars doing some pull ups. "Hank, you sure the kid isn't a mutant?"

"Yes, Logan." the doctor answered. "All the lab tests prove he's not one of us."

"Then why is he here?"

"Logan!" Jean scolded. "He's just as confused as the other kids in this school too."

"Doesn't change the fact we still can't predict what he's capable of." the Wolverine muttered. His gaze was on Professor Xavier. "I want real explanations, Chuck. Everything you told me doesn't make any sense, besides the kid's a mess."

"We don't have any other explanations, Logan," Xavier told him. "Our best chance finding any more clues is to ask Zack about how his dreams are related to his powers."

"Well, kid?" Logan went straight to the point.

"It's like I've lived before," Zack said uneasily. "Kitty thinks I'm sort of a reincarnation of somebody... or what my dreams are pointed out to my powers randomly."

The burly X-Men wasn't feeling patient that moment. Logan crossed his arms, "Alright, how about you try remembering something, but one small memory. I want you to focus on it, and then call it forth."

Ororo Monroe gave him a skeptical disapproving look. "You're making this more dangerous on Zack. I thought you said Zack was dangerous as he is."

"That's why he needs to control what he's doing!" Logan pointed out. "He can't keep following his instincts forever, knowing is different from relying on something that's on auto-pilot."

Ororo was about to argue, but Xavier held his arm up silencing the rest who were worked up about the argument. "Logan is right. This may be dangerous, but if Zack doesn't maintain control we might face problems in the future." To Zack, he said, "We don't mean to let you out of the conversation, Zack. Please understand that the more we know, the more information we can get to help you. This is the first time we've faced a case like yours."

Zack sighed. He was seriously getting tired of being separated from his friends because he was different, but he knew that these people wanted to help him. "Okay, I'll give it a shot."

"Thank you," the professor said gladly. "Take your time in shifting through those dreams you know of."

"Take his time?" Logan complained.

Jean put a finger to her lips. "Logan! Shush!"

Tiredly, Zack closed his eyes and focused on the flashes he knew of. In nearly most of what he remembered, all of them were related in meeting many people he had no idea of who their names were. He simply labeled them by what their striking features were. None of them really told him what he was capable of doing in his abilities. The teen only knew his abilities and found out how to make them work because he saw things or thought of them on the whim. Honestly, he wasn't sure of what he was trying to get or any result he was expecting. Another breath he took and he focused on the ones he had with his mentor. Perhaps there was something he could pick up in one of those flashing memories.

The one he picked was of him holding a red marble in his hand. (5)

The X-Men were all silent as Zack glowed a red ethereal, and he laid his right hand out, a medium circle symbolic glyph appeared. Wolverine took to his stance and prepared himself for anything the kid was about to throw at him. By the expressions of the others, he was more than sure they haven't seen as this particular ability Zack was showing them now. The red light shined brighter until the whole group was blinded with it.

'POOF!'

Smoke filled the room, but oddly enough it didn't cause the fire detectors to sprinkle down the group with water. It was hard to see as the smoke was still thick, no thanks to the fact they were inside a closed off room. Hank knowingly gave Storm a look, and she nodded quickly. Focusing on her powers, Ororo's eyes turned milky white and the smoke slowly dispersed. Since her weather controlling abilities were capable of molecular cloud control, it was an easy matter for her. What she didn't expect was that without the smoke, there was something there that wasn't there before.

"Wark!" (6)

In front of Zack Fair was a very large yellow bird. It wasn't an emu or an ostrich, and its size was possibly far larger than the two and its body resembled more like a chicken. Only its head was larger, having an orange large round beak and the feathers on its head stuck out to the back. It was giving them all curious looks like it was trying to figure out something. All the X-Men had their own surprised masks as the bird observed at them. Dr. McCoy lowered and raised his glasses thinking he didn't have the right lens to look at it as if it were an illusion. Jean and Ororo wore identical shocked expressions on the creature. Scott was looking at it and back to the professor trying to confirm it was real or not. The professor was trying to remain calm and figure what was going on. Only Logan was capable of speaking up for the rest of the mutants.

"What the fuck, is that?"

Zack gulped. "I have no idea! I swear!" He looked at his hand. "All I focused on was a vision of a red crystal marble."

Logan skeptically pointed to the bird. "You were intent on attacking me by teleporting a big fat yellow chicken?"

"Wark!" the yellow bird complained, looking at Logan as if it were offended by his comment. Oddly enough, Xavier caught the thoughts it was projecting on Logan that it was not fat. Jean also voiced her concerns on the matter very much the same. She mentioned the bird understood what Logan was saying through their telepathic connection.

"Err... dunno." the spiky teen shrugged, feeling out-of-place on how to deal with the bird. The bird then walked towards him. "What do you want?"

"Wark! Wark!" This time, it was puffing its feathers as if it was ushering Zack for something.

None of the X-Men expected the boy to understand, but Zack seemed to with his attention on the bird. "Orders?"

It happily bobbed its head up and down, "Wark!" The bird was saying his guess was correct.

Zack scratched his head. "What can you do?"

This time, the bird was acting weirdly. It walked to the side of him and took a few steps forward like it was doing a march. It then turned its head back to Zack and called to him. "Wark!"

"You want me to follow you do it?" the teen asked. Okay, this was just too freaky but for some reason... but one of his visions was getting clearer. He couldn't hold onto it because he was rudely interrupted. Zack had to throw himself to one side of the floor when Wolverine attacked him. "What was that for?!"

"If ya aren't going to move, in a real battle you would have died," Logan said with his claws extended. "And that inflated yellow Kentucky Fried Chicken isn't going to help you."

The teen didn't agree because Zack noticed that something appeared on the bird's head. Huh?

Was that an angry ticked off mark?

"Logan..." Jean warned.

The said person wasn't listening. "That cute bird isn't going to deal any damage."

Another ticked off mark.

"Feathers probably can't do a thing."

Dr. McCoy face palmed when he noticed another tick mark and the yellow bird looked pissed.

The room was heavily quiet, as Zack chose not to make a move due to the fact he wasn't sure on what was the yellow bird's purpose. The doctor had to gasp with the others when the bird moved like a lightning bolt. Wolverine was caught off guard when it dashed at him and gave him a spiraling aerial kick to the wall. Its target flew and slammed to the metal wall. Clearly the kick resulted in embedding Logan into the wall. Amusingly, there was a large footprint of the yellow bird indenting the metal wall which resembled a letter Y surrounding him.

"Wark!" The yellow summon puffed its chest proudly in front of Zack in triumph. It chirped and danced with a victory of taking down the enemy.

Meanwhile, Zack's memories, this time, was clearer. He was walking in a march with the bird, doing the same sort of attack. Only, that they attacked from the air together and attacked their enemies on the ground, crushing them. Snapping back to reality, the raven head still had to wince at Logan's predicament, if that was a normal person... they would have clearly died. Or, if they survived the initial onslaught, they'd suffer a lot of broken bones.

Yikes.

The teen immediately apologized. "Sorry, Logan!"

Thankfully the professor wheeled his wheelchair beside him and laid a comforting squeeze on his shoulder. "It's not your fault. He'll be fine, there's a reason why he's our fighting instructor. But Logan was being disrespectful to your friend."

"My friend? Who? Him?" Zack pointed at the bird. The bird warbled at him happily. He didn't really know what to make of it, after the 'Limit Break' thing he learned previously, this one totally took the cake when it came to the bizarre.

"I can only read its projected thoughts through its emotions," Xavier said in an interested tone. "It definitely likes you and wishes to serve you."

Proving that it did, the yellow bird snuggled his head to Zack. The black-haired teen couldn't help but laugh as its feathers tickled and he petted the bird back. "Thanks for cheering me up. I suppose we're friends now?"

"Wark!"

While all the other X-Men were taking steps to get to know Zack powers of summoning a yellow bird, only Cyclops walked over to the victim. Clearly Logan was groaning trying to get out of the metal prison he was stuck in. He was drilled in at a sitting position with all his arms and legs in front of him, making it hard to see what was going on outside as he was faced down. Worst, it was tougher to get out as his adamantium blades were out of reach from the metallic walls that encased him. However, he knew that smell anywhere and who was in front of him.

"What are you looking at?"

Scott shrugged. "It was your idea. You shouldn't have pissed off the bird." He scanned the metal surrounding where the victim was stuck. "Looks like we're going to renovate. I wonder if the professor would let us keep the souvenir," he indicated to the footprint on the wall.

Logan glared. "Very funny, Summers."

When the bird poofed out of existence, Xavier called his students to him to re-watch the recordings in the surveillance room.

"Wait till Rogue sees this." Scott laughed.

Wolverine growled and sheathed two adamantium blades on each edge of his hands leaving the middle ones stuck out, substituting the remaining ones as his middle fingers. (7)

.

.

A pair of green pleading puppy eyes, Genesis was sure he could handle.

But four?

"You never did have the chance, Genesis," Steve said shaking his head beside him feeling sorry for the auburn haired agent.

Genesis scowled back at the old-timer and then sighed heavily. "One day you'll be the death of me, Rogers."

About two hours of being in the greenhouse, Steve eventually made it to the lounge room with Aerith where Professor Gast, his wife, and two daughters were at with Genesis guarding them. The auburn haired agent was in an animated conversation with the Professor and his wife about their research and things that needed to be moved once they landed at their destination. The talk ranged from electronic machines, papers, samples and other sorts of hardware. The Super Soldier was then introduced to the younger daughters of the professors, Anne, and Annice who were twins.

Aerith, in her happy mood, proclaimed that she wanted dancing lessons. It seemed as if Professor Gast was used to her sudden declarations, and asked for an explanation. That's when the Super Soldier was dragged into her reasons and by default (because he was a temporary agent) Genesis was too. Ifalna was more than thrilled about their daughter learning how to do the waltz from the auburn haired SHIELD agent, which then resulted in the twins who were both seven years old to wanting to see it too. To them, Steve was the charming 'prince' in a fairytale story, they wanted to see their big sister dance with him. Hence, why now the former Commander was faced with four pairs of pleading eyes.

"Please?" the twins said in unison. Both had medium cut hair and were identical to one another. Their green cute eyes were worse than Zack's on a good day.

Damn it.

"Very well." the agent now 'dancing teacher' snorted. "When we're settled on the ground."

The twins cheered, so did the Cetra and her mother. Gast instead shook his head with mirth. "Good luck in handling them. They can be a handful together."

"I was under the impression that you didn't approve of boys going after your daughter," Genesis commented with a sigh.

Gast waved it off. "I trust you and Agent Rogers here can take care of my family. Work is serious, but I don't want to make work relationships too stiff. The more the merrier, I guess. And... you two are hardly boys. Boys are for those at Aerith's age."

The auburn former SOLDIER noted Gast's tone of his still current dislike of 'boys' going after his daughter. If he ever found the Puppy, Zack Fair, the spiky raven head would need to be warned before he could meet his flower girl. Back in at home, he was lucky enough he didn't have to go face to face with the protective father. Even so, in this life the professor was a known scientist was passionate about his work and his friendly personality shined through the talks of his colleagues. Not so different from his former self back in Gaia. Perhaps that was the reason why he had Sephiroth's respect. While he was deep in thought, Steve was now dragged away by the twins who wanted to see the labs and with them Professor Gast.

"Genesis, could you-"

"Come on, Rogers," Genesis smirked to the Super Soldier. "Watching over them isn't that hard." He saluted the Super Soldier with two fingers in a goodbye.

Steve realized what the younger agent was doing, but it was too late as he disappeared from the room as the twins kept on dragging him with their father. With Genesis' enhanced hearing he knew Steve noticed it was his payback at Rogers when the other man cursed at him.

"That was unnecessarily harsh," Ifalna said breaking their silence.

"He needs the company actually. Children work the best on him." Genesis said. He elaborated, "Where he stands there's little communication with normal civilians. It's not like he had real happiness in the past, he wasn't there to enjoy the end. Hath endured torment, to find the end of the journey. Let him live a little."

"Was that why you agreed to teach him to dance?" Aerith asked him.

A nod, and he grinned. "And I am absolutely a sucker to please women."

The flower girl slapped him on the arm with laughter, "Flirt!"

That made Ifalna point to some other samples on the other side of the room. "Well, there's some more samples waiting for you to carry, Agent Rhapsodos. We're taking them to my lab at Lab 5."

"Yes, Professor."

Genesis knew it was all an act about him carrying the samples. It was just a cover up that they were in need of a private area to talk since the lounge area was frequently a busy area. A place where security cameras were on and bugs could be plopped on anywhere. The auburn haired agent diligently followed the two Cetra and stopped when the two would be talked to by fellow scientists. Fortunately for Genesis, it seemed like the other agents on the ship were busy with their own scientists they'd been assigned to, so basically, no one was suspicious that he was with the professor and her daughter. He observed that the elder Cetra had a youthful spunk despite her age, making her well liked amongst the other scientists. In two minutes, they ended up at Lab 5.

"I didn't think you had your own lab," Genesis said as he put the samples down on her observation workstation.

Ifalna then took the samples and laid them in a tray by chronological order. "My husband and I are working on different projects. Make yourself comfortable, we're safe to talk here."

The auburn agent sat on a table in front of Aerith who had passed him a mug with a SHIELD logo on it, with coffee filled in. "Thanks, Aerith."

Aerith gazed on him. "So... what now?"

"I'm not sure." Genesis sighed. "I thought, if someone remembered... it was enough. But now..."

Ifalna was now making notes, but she'd then and now would peer into her microscope. "You've taken a liking to Steve Rogers."

A shrug. "He asked me to be his friend."

"Then shouldn't it be a good incentive for you to move on?" Ifalna asked.

Genesis disagreed. "I got into SHIELD for a reason. Now I found you two, maybe I can find more. I'll keep searching."

Aerith's eyes were on him. "You think you'll find Zack?"

"Most likely." the agent agreed. "You said it yourself he took a second chance. And what I've heard back on Gaia, his parents died from the Geostigma outbreak... so there's a chance they'll be with him. Nonetheless, we don't know he'll have his memories back or not if we find him."

"Aerith?" Ifalna asked worriedly at her daughter.

She didn't realize she was crying until a tear dropped on the table. Aerith's voice sound like she was in pain. "Sorry, it's– just– maybe– but this... isn't our world anymore."

"Oh, Aerith." the mother hugged her child softly.

Genesis honestly didn't know what to say to her despair, but he did have a question for her. "You know Aerith, I found some Turks who died in the War of Resolve. They're a blank slate. No matter how many times I pass by them, they don't remember or won't ever remember. If I do find Zack in such a state what should I do?"

"Tell me about him," Aerith answered wiping her tears away. "He might not remember, but I'll be willing to reach out to him and be with him this time. It's all I ask."

"You're the bravest and most determined girl I've met." Genesis acknowledged. He closed his eyes and held his hand over his heart. "It's promise then."

"And what of you and Angeal?" Aerith asked back.

The former SOLDIER breathed out a breath. "I'd like to be his friend again if given a chance. Whether he remembers or not."

He wasn't so sure if both Angeal or Sephiroth were here. Sephiroth was tainted by Jenova the moment he stepped into Nibelheim... and Angeal... would he have preferred to stay in the Lifestream or take a second chance at life? Genesis wasn't going to stop searching. If he couldn't find the two, he could always watch over Zack who inherited both of his friends' spirit and strength. It was also the least he could do for his best friend who he counted as his brother since childhood.

"You think you'll be able to visit us sometime after this current mission?" Ifalna questioned.

"With the Director breathing down my neck?" Genesis said sarcastically. "I can't say. If nothing hits the fan, I'll be lucky to try on my free time. But what after you said about something awakening back at your previous lab facility, I might think things may turn otherwise."

"Just what is stored down there back there?" the flower girl questioned.

A rueful forced smile. "That's classified. However, it's clear it shouldn't belong there. You'll won't have to worry now, you both are on the way to a place that is safer."

Aerith noticed his dark tone. "There are people you care about there that may get involved if things turn for the worse."

"Yes." Genesis uneasily, "And I fear I may get more involved than I would like to."

Ifalna rubbed her chin, "Is Steve Rogers involved in this?"

The auburn poet gave her a knowing look, "Mrs. Gast, you know very well he'll be involved with it whether he likes it or not. He's with SHIELD, and you knew his fate as this world's hero."

The full Cetra nodded but she smiled kindly at him, "Then Minerva wasn't wrong to have your destiny intertwine with his."

"What do you mean?" Genesis frowned. His heart beat sped up.

"The road that will appear might be a hard one, Genesis. But never forget this time around you only need to act your role as needed and that you're not alone." Ifalna said seriously. "You're a lot stronger than you think, Rhapsodos. Do not doubt that." Before the former Commander could question her words, she left the room leaving him with Aerith.

"Does she always speak in riddles?"

Aerith giggled. "That's rich coming from a person who speaks with poetry." A pause. "But, I think what she means that you should have a little faith in yourself and others."

"Like you have faith I'm well versed in the dancing arts?" Genesis raised a brow.

An eager nod. "I know you do, Mr. Rhapsody~!" She then added, "You know, I'd like for Steve to know how to dance once he meets his loved one. It'll be a long-awaited meeting. Whoever she is, she deserves it and Steve does too."

Genesis only then knew who she was referring to. "Does Peggy Carter remind you how you waited for Zack to come back?"

"Peggy's a nice name," Aerith said. She agreed to Genesis' question sadly. "Four years... perhaps five... I knew nothing about what happened to him. ShinRa declared him dead, but I didn't believe them. But when he passed through the Lifestream, I knew Zack would never come back. Steve still has that chance on relieving a person's heart that he was alright all this time. She'll be happy, I'm sure of it."

"Hmm, as far as I know... the Puppy doesn't know how to dance back then. If he still doesn't and still remembers, I'll make sure he can be your partner, Aerith, before he meets you." Genesis suggested.

"Really?"

Genesis laughed. "I'll make sure he's house trained. I wouldn't think of meeting Angeal in this life or in a dream pestering me that Zack isn't up to his expectations of 'dreams and honor'." He lightly argued, "If he's is about your age now, there's a chance he'll lose a bit of maturity."

"Did you when you first came here?"

A snort. "I think you'd know too, seeing you went through with it from ten years old. I was 'dropped' in this world in my teens. Raging hormones– Ugh, never liked it."

"Touché." Aerith agreed and giggled. "It's funny how your mind is grown up, and your body has a hard time readjusting to it."

Genesis crossed his arms. "So, we still have another good four hours before we land. I think we can share stories."

"What stories?"

"Yours. Mine is your typical 'join the international government organization' because of 'I didn't have many options.'" Genesis then suggested, "Your mother and father weren't originally in SHIELD beforehand. Where were you before then?"

"That's a long story." Aerith pointed out.

Genesis easily countered her, "We have time."

As Genesis heard with interest at the Cetra's tale of her life on Earth, already in his mind he had plans to keep tabs on Aerith and Ifalna for future meetings. He came to the terms he'd spend this time allowing himself to feel glad of having someone from home. Although she and her mother weren't the specific people he sought for, he'd cherish it.

Cloud Strife was right, after all, there's nothing in life that you shouldn't cherish.

Especially a second chance at life.

"I value the friend who for me finds time on his calendar, but I cherish the friend who for me does not consult his calendar." ~ Robert Brault

TBC...

Notes/Trivia:

(1) Moogle: Moogles sprout a "pom-pom" - a red ball of fur on a thin, wiry antenna - emerging from their heads, which they are very sensitive about being touched. From their suggested mole-bat ancestry, a moogle's wings are most often of a dark, Gothic, or bat-like design, as to juxtapose their otherwise harmless appearance and bubbly nature. Moogles generally resemble small mammals, ranging from rodents, to felines or marsupials. Because of their size, the lot of playable moogle characters in the FF series specialize in gadgetry, tinkering, and engineering. In FFVII Crisis Core, a Moogle was one of Zack's DMW summon where when summoned, grants a Regen status and levels up currently equiped Materia.

(2) Cetra: An ancient race of humans on Gaia who had deep ties to the Planet. The Cetra had the unique ability to commune with the Planet, an ability which regular humans lost once they gave up their close relationship with the Planet in favor of leisure and convenience. They also had the ability to guide the flow of the Planet's spiritual energy, this being the means by which they were able to cultivate life on the Planet's surface. - FF Wikia

(3) Infinity Serum: A similar serum to the Super Soldier Serum. Nick Fury's character in the Avengers movie is based on his appearance in the Ultimates comics timeline. It is believed that he was an unwilling participant of a 'tested' version of the Super Soldier before Captain America. It's effects are similar to the Super Soldier Serum but at low power, however, its aftereffect decrease his aging significantly. Because of this, Fury is actually over 90 years old. - Marvel Wiki

(4) Bobby or Robert Louis "Bobby" Drake a.k.a. Iceman (X-Men). A mutant who has cyrokinetic abilities enabling him to manipulate, make, and even turn himself into ice.

(5) Summon Materia: Contrary to a magic materia, a summon Materia is a red colored crystal ball and gives the caster the ability to summon forth a creature that is inside the Materia. Creatures called forth from it vary from harmless looking chocobos to fierce and powerful summons such as dragons.

(6) Chocobo Summon: Large avian creatures, Chocobos roughly act as the Final Fantasy equivalent of horses, being domesticated for use as mounts and for pulling carts and carriages. However in FFVII Chocobos are also seen in summons. The known summon in the original FFVII came from a summon materia summoning both a chocobo and moogle/mog. In Crisis Core, Zack's DMW special attacks have a chocobo summoning that performs the attack Chocobo Stomp. Many chocobos in the FF series are known to have other abilities such as Choco Dash (running away from battles), and one of its more dangerous damaging attack Choco Meteor/Comet.

(7) Adamantium is an indestructible metal alloy in the Marvel Universe. It is best known for being the substance bonded to the character Wolverine's skeleton and bone claws. In the first X-Men movies, Wolverine also used the rude middle finger gesture with his adamantium blades at Scott Summers.

Comments, opinions, your thoughts, very much welcomed.