Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, scenery, or towns; Square Enix does.
09 - Changes
Genesis awoke so suddenly that he jumped, startling Reno awake. The Turk looked at him with sleep blurry eyes and a raised eyebrow. Genesis started to say something when he realized what had woken him; a vibrating sound. His PHS!
The SSC jumped up and scrambled to his pants, wondering why in Gaia he hadn't moved the phone closer before he'd laid down. Other things on my mind, he thought with a grin. He finally had the PHS in hand. 'Unknown name and unknown number' displayed on the flashing screen. How helpful, he sarcastically thought.
"Yes?"
"SSC Rhapsodos?"
Genesis vaguely recognized the voice but couldn't place it. He wondered if he should say no until he knew who it was. Deciding it didn't matter he said, "Speaking."
"Thank Gaia," came the relieved reply. "It's Legend."
"You have news for us?" Genesis asked, putting the voice with the face for future reference. He turned on the speaker function so Reno could hear.
"Yes, but nothing either of you will like. I need your location," Legend replied.
Genesis certainly didn't like the sound of that. "Why?" he asked suspiciously.
"I need to drop off a package."
A package? He didn't like the sound of that either. Sure Reno seemed to trust Legend but he didn't. To him trust was earned and Legend hadn't done that yet. "What package?"
"Rhapsodos I'm not going to argue about this. Give me your godsdamned location," Legend snapped.
Reno had jumped up just after Genesis, curiosity and concern dragging him forward. He was standing beside the SOLDIER when Legend snapped at him. Oh shit, Reno thought as Genesis's eyes started to glow, face going angry. Wait, glow? He completely forgot about the PHS, Genesis's temper, and Legend. His attention was solely focused on the SSC's eyes. They were a vibrant blue and yep, they were glowing. He didn't think they'd started out so bright but now Genesis's face was bathed in dim blue. While it was true he hadn't worked with a SOLDIER before, he was fairly certain their eyes didn't glow that brightly.
"Look Turk, I don-," Genesis was cut off as Reno put a hand over his mouth.
"Legend?"
"Reno, how are you?"
"I'm fine, what's up yo?" Reno replied, removing his hand from Genesis's mouth, visually daring him to say something.
"I need your location."
"I'd tell you if I knew man."
Legend said, "Hang on," and Reno heard rustling in the background. Genesis was glaring at him and he swore the SSC's eyes were even brighter. It was freaky, but sexy. He pressed his lips together in a kissy face at the SOLDIER, who rolled his eyes in return. The intensity of the glow seemed to diminish though. Weird.
"I'm back. Tell me the direction you're heading and anything significant you've passed," Legend said.
Reno gave him a run down, finishing with, "We're in a cave in the third mountain we've come across."
"Third mou- ah. Damn you guys must have hauled ass. You're not too far from Junon. Maybe 100-150 miles at most," Legend replied.
"Good to hear yo."
"Do you have some way to mark your location so I can find it from the air?"
Reno raised his eyebrows and looked at Genesis. The SSC's eyes were no longer glowing and he shrugged. "Do you have a map?" Genesis inquired, thinking it would make pinning their location easier, with or without a signal.
"I do."
"Alright. Look for the ocean steam that breaks up the mountain range that separates the north and south part of the continent."
"Got it," Legend replied.
"We're somewhere in that little nook created by the mountains and that steam," he paused, looked at Reno, took a breath, then added, "I'll light a fire, but I don't know how easy it will be to spot so look closely."
"Alright," Legend replied.
"How long before you're here?" Reno asked.
"Not long."
"See you soon then," Reno replied before Genesis disconnected the call.
Genesis sighed. "Guess we should get dressed." Reno nodded and the pair started preparing for Legend's arrival.
Legend sighed as he disconnected the call to Reno and Genesis. One down, one to go. He looked over at the chopper and Rufus, who was glaring at him, expression full of anger and impatience. They'd taken care of the outpost last night and slept there for a few hours. Upon waking Legend had found a backpack and put some of the bases provisions into it. He'd sent Rufus out to refuel the chopper and they'd left 20 minutes later.
They'd flown over the mountains and he'd landed to make his calls. Rufus was pissed because he'd taken his PHS and made the kid stay in the chopper. He didn't want him to know what his plan was yet because he knew the kid wasn't going to like it. No choice.
He sighed, scrolled through his contacts until he found Tseng's name, and hit 'send'. After two rings Tseng picked up.
"Tseng."
"It's Legend. The situation has changed," Legend said.
"Oh?" said the man of few words.
Legend filled him in on the meeting, his 'kidnapping' of Rufus, and the call from President Shinra. When he finished there was a pause and he added, "It's your choice, Tseng."
"I will attend," Tseng replied. "I am being summoned. If I do not attend it will reflect poorly on the entire department."
"Location?"
Legend looked at his map as Tseng gave him the general area, adding that they had flares. "That's good to hear. You're not far from Genesis and Reno."
"What are you going to do with Rufus?" Tseng asked.
Legend paused. He hadn't asked about Genesis and Reno at all, instead he'd skipped straight to Rufus. Confidence or... He wondered if Tseng did know how the kid felt about him. Not my damned business, he reminded himself. "I'm going to drop him off with Genesis and Reno before getting you."
There was a pause before Tseng replied, "He agreed to that?"
"Eh... no... not exactly. I haven't told him yet."
Another pause. "We will hold this position until you arrive. Call me after you drop Rufus off," Tseng said, disconnecting.
Legend sighed, refolded the map, and headed back to the chopper. He opened the door, threw the map in, and climbed into the pilot seat.
"I take it coms are back?" Rufus angrily asked before he'd even shut the door.
"Yes." He could feel the anger pulsing off the kid.
After a long silence, Rufus's anger and impatience got the best of him. "Yes? That's it? You're not going to say anything else?"
"Hadn't planned on it," Legend replied, running through the takeoff procedure.
"Hadn't plan- hadn't planned on it?" Rufus yelled. "Gods you're insufferable!"
The minutes ticked by in silence while Legend finished the preflight and got the chopper back in the air. He knew Rufus was still pissed but couldn't help it. Or could he? "Tseng is fine," the blond Turk said. He swore he felt the tension level immediately drop. Should have known.
"He's going, isn't he?" Rufus quietly asked.
"Yes."
Rufus swore before asking, "He'll be ok, right?"
How the shards am I supposed to answer that? He cautiously replied, "If I have anything to do with it." Silence followed until he said, "We're going to find Reno, give him these supplies," Legend partially lied. "I need you to help me look for a fire ok?"
"Sure," Rufus said. Silence again filled the cockpit as each turned to their tasks and thoughts.
Tseng had walked away from their makeshift camp during his call with Legend. He'd pushed his group hard due to the weather but they'd managed to find a dry place large enough that they could rest and started hinting, so he allowed them to stop. They'd taken turns on guard duty but he was confident everyone had gotten enough rest.
As he returned he noticed everything and everyone was ready to go. Cissnei was chatting up Rude, who chuckled every now and then. Angeal was standing close to Elena looking somewhat nervous. Tseng hadn't missed the signals on the journey and wondered if he was watching two couples form. It didn't bother him; he just hoped everyone stayed professional regardless of what happened in their personal lives.
The Wutain walked into camp and silence fell upon the group along with nervousness and anticipation. "We are going to hold this position. Legend will arrive within two hours," he said. He intentionally held back the meeting and other details.
Three heads nodded but Angeal asked, "Who's Legend?"
"The spook Turk," Elena replied. "Best Turk ever."
"Not the best Turk ever. He is one of the best Turks on active duty right now, however," Tseng added.
"Like a First Class Turk... cool," Angeal replied, smiling.
"If we aren't heading out right away can we make some breakfast? I'm starving!" Cissnei whined.
Elena giggled, Rude chuckled, and Angeal smiled wider before Tseng nodded his approval. Everyone started to either dig things out of the packs or fiddle with the fire, trying to get it restarted. Tseng walked over to Angeal and tapped him on the shoulder. The SOLDIER looked up at him and he jerked his head away from the group.
Angeal took the hint and followed as Tseng walked away. Oh Gods what now? Please let Genesis and Reno be ok! He was sincerely worried about his friend. The SSC had tried calling earlier but the line had been busy. He figured that was a good sign but one never knew. While he'd never admit it to anyone, Genesis was... kind of a pampered, spoiled diva sometimes. He honestly didn't know how well he'd do being in the 'wild' for this long. One thing was for sure, he almost pitied Reno and the whining he probably had to endure.
The two came to a stop a good distance away from the camp, plenty far enough to be out of earshot. Tseng turned around with a grave face, causing Angeal's worry to rise.
"There is to be a meeting tomorrow at Shinra headquarters," Tseng began. "It is a board meeting to discuss the fate of the Turks. I am to attend."
Of all the things Angeal prepared himself to hear, that hadn't made the list. His jaw hung open for a minute before he moved it. "With all due respect, are you insane, Sir?"
Tseng chuckled, "Perhaps."
As far as Angeal could tell Tseng didn't show many emotions. The fact that he chuckled worried him and his response didn't help. Maybe he had gone mad. "Sir, you can't! They'll kill you the second you walk through the door!"
Tseng was touched by Angeal's concern but undaunted. "Angeal, Legend is coming in an Apache."
Angeal stared at Tseng as he processed what he'd said. An Apache? Those only have two... his eyes widened. "No! No way are you going alone!"
"I will not be alone, Legend will be with me."
"No! What abo-," he stopped as Tseng held up a hand.
"I am leaving with Legend, Angeal. You cannot stop me. What you can and will do is lead the rest of the Turks to Junon once I am gone," Tseng said in a cool voice. Angeal's jaw was hanging open again as Tseng continued. "I understand this is difficult and I know you do not like it, neither will they," he said, indicating the remaining Turks. "Once you are in Junon, find Reno and Genesis. Reno will take it from there and Genesis and yourself will be relieved."
"Wha- I- You don-," Angeal sputtered and Tseng again held up a hand.
"Director Lazard placed you under my command SOLDIER and this is an order. In addition, until Legend gets here you are to say nothing to Elena, Rude, or Cissnei about this," Tseng crisply stated. With that he headed back to camp, leaving Angeal with his jaw hanging open, again, thoughts racing.
"There!" Rufus called out.
Legend had been slowly piloting along the perimeter of the area Genesis had indicated for about 10 minutes. From their previous location it had taken 20 minutes to get here and finding the location so quickly was a relief. They were under a deadline after all.
Legend glanced toward where Rufus was pointing and saw a medium sized fire. He scanned the land and found a decent landing spot, noting the soggy ground and praying the chopper didn't sink on touchdown. To his relief it didn't and soon both were out of the chopper and headed toward the fire, Rufus running ahead of him. Kids.
Upon seeing Reno, Rufus picked up speed and he practically knocked the Turk over as he flew into his arms and gave him a hug. "Gods I'm glad you're ok!"
"Holy shit yo," Reno replied, both because he was almost bowled over and because he was almost bowled over by Rufus fucking Shinra. He glanced at Genesis and noticed his eyes were glowing a bit, a scowl clear on his face. The Turk smiled, trying to silently reassure the SOLDIER but the glow only intensified. The hell?
Rufus let go of Reno and glanced at the SOLDIER, saying nothing. Reno noticed the slight and saw Genesis's eyes flash. He sighed and walked over to Legend, who was standing just outside the fire's perimeter. The redhead figured Genesis either didn't like Rufus or the fact he was here was the problem. Either way he couldn't deal with it now or even ask the SSC what the problem was.
Genesis came up on the other side of Legend and their eyes locked for a minute before the SSC inclined his head, telling Reno it was his show. Reno was unsettled by the SOLDIER's sudden coldness but shrugged it off. "How's everyone yo?"
"Fine," Legend replied.
"So what's this package," Reno questioned, relieved that everyone was ok.
"It's in the chopper," Legend said, heading back the way he'd come.
Reno flashed Genesis a glance and the SSC shrugged his shoulders. He told Rufus to stay with the SSC and followed Legend. Genesis went back to the fire with Rufus trailing behind him. As he and Legend got close to the chopper, Reno had a bad feeling about what the package was. Surely not...
Legend took one look at Reno's face and knew what he was thinking, "Yeah, he's the package."
"Fucking shit Legend! The hell is goin' on yo?"
Legend told him the same thing he'd told Tseng earlier. He suspected Reno would react badly but the redhead said nothing. Instead the redhead simply looked at the ground, ran a hand through his hair, and nodded.
"You're ok with this?" Legend finally prompted.
"Fuck no but I can't see a better option. 'Sides, Tseng can handle himself and you'll be there. If he gets killed... I'll fucking kill you," Reno said.
Reno's tone had been nonchalant but Legend knew he was dead serious. "Reno I'm only so good and there will only be the two of us. You can't blame me if it goes wrong," he angrily replied.
"Watch me yo," Reno said, turning away.
Son of a bitch, Legend thought. Few of the Turks had the skills to match him but unfortunately, Reno was one that could. He really didn't want to see who would win if Reno came at him. "I'll do my best Reno, you know that."
"Do better than your best," Reno said, facing him again.
Legend sighed, retrieved the backpack from the chopper, and handed it to Reno. "Rufus doesn't know I'm leaving him here."
"Shit," Reno said in a quiet voice. "He's either going to cry his eyes out or be as pissed as a chocobo with a flattened dick." A pause. "Or both."
Legend couldn't bite back a chuckle. "You have such colorful expressions sometimes," he said. Then a thought occurred to him. "You know... don't you?"
Reno looked down at the ground, knowing exactly what Legend was talking about. "Yeah, I do. Rude does too."
"And you've never told Tseng?" The redheaded Turk shrugged. "And here I thought you had a big mouth."
Reno grinned. "I do when it suits me."
Legend chuckled before getting serious. "If things go wrong Reno..." he trailed off. He didn't want to say 'the kid's going to be heartbroken' or 'you'll be in charge'.
"I know, I know. But they're not gonna go wrong are they?" Reno asked, the challenge clear in his tone.
"No," was all Legend could reply. "You better head back to the fire," he said, sticking his hand out.
Reno shook it. "Wait until I'm close to him before you start the bird yo."
Legend nodded and opened the door as Reno headed back to the fire, feeling depressed. Gods this sucked. Maybe he should have told Legend to tell Tseng. Least then if he... he'd know someone had loved him. Do not think like that!
As he approached the fire Genesis glanced at him with a knowing look. Somehow it didn't surprise him that the SOLIDER had heard the conversation from so far away. Even he looked depressed.
Rufus, who didn't have super hearing, said, "Where's Legend?" Reno didn't say anything so he glanced at the SOLDIER. They wore almost identical expressions: depression, concern, and... pity? It wasn't until the chopper blades powered up and that it hit him. "No!" he yelled, running forward. He didn't get far before Reno caught him.
Reno's throat constricted and it was all he could do to say, "It's okay Rufus, it's okay," while Rufus thrashed, trying to get away.
"No! He can't fucking leave me here! Godsdamnit Reno let me go!"
"I can't do that Rufus. You know I can't," Reno soothed.
"You have to!" Rufus yelled, falling to his knees and dragging Reno down with him. "You fucking have to," he said weakly. "I have to tel-, help him!" He knew it was a pointless struggle, that he'd lost, and tears were running down his face. If he... if I... what if I never get a chance to tell him? What if I never see him again? The thoughts filled him with panic. He pulled his fist back and slammed it into Reno's face, not caring if he hurt him or not.
Reno hated this but there was no choice. The Apache only sat two people and it was more important for Tseng to get to that meeting than any of them. If Rufus went with Legend to Tseng... Gods knew what would happen, but it would probably be worse than this. He didn't like it, but it was reality. Knowing this, he took the blow to the face without a word. So he might have a black eye, big deal compared to a possible broken heart filled with regret. The Turk shook his head to clear his vision and stop his own tears.
"Let Legend go Mr. Shinra, we'll find our own way," said a voice from above them. Immediately Rufus stopped trying to get away and together they jerked their heads up in surprise.
"What?" Rufus asked quietly.
"I said we'll find our own way," Genesis repeated, knowing which part the kid wanted to hear.
Neither Rufus nor Reno knew what to think. Reno figured it was a tactic to get the kid to calm down and while it worked, he got pissed when he saw the hope in Rufus's eyes. Rufus was just stunned, wondering why the hell a SOLDIER would give a damn about a Turk since the departments were notorious rivals. They routinely undercut each other, stole each other's recruits, and generally tried to make the other department look as bad as possible, whenever possible.
Something inside Genesis had broken upon seeing the Vice President's reaction to being left behind. He didn't know the full story but he had heard the conversation between Reno and Legend; it told him enough. The SSC looked at Reno, saw the anger on his face, and took a step back, confused.
While glowering at Genesis, Reno watched the emotions slide through the SOLDIER's eyes. Surely he didn't mean... He heard the chopper lift off and breathed a sigh of relief while simultaneously his heart sank. Rufus was quiet, but still crying. "You're serious... aren't you?" Reno asked.
Genesis gave Reno a confused look. Serious? Then he realized Reno had thought he was just trying to calm Rufus down. He straightened up and scowled down at the Turk, "Yes, I am," he retorted. He was pissed Reno would even think he would play with someone's emotions like that.
Rufus suddenly stood up, brushed off his suit, and pinned Genesis with reddened eyes. "But you're a SOLDIER."
"What the hell does that have to do with anything?" Genesis snapped.
Rufus was taken aback by the tone in the SOLDIER's voice and anxiety and depression were replaced by anger and annoyance. Was he seriously snapping at him? Did the SOLIDER have a brain? "You do realize who I am, don't you?" Rufus replied in a cold, angry tone.
"I said Mr. Shinra didn't I? Gods what's wrong with the two of you? I offer to fucking help and you both get pissed!" His hands started to tingle and he shook them out. Before he could completely lose it he stalked away, thinking it best to put some distance between them.
Rufus and Reno exchanged a glace. Rufus couldn't believe he'd been yelled at by one of his own employees. He was gripping onto his anger so he could push away his other emotions. Reno couldn't quite believe Genesis would risk his career, hell his life, for someone he didn't know. Sure he liked the SSC, thought he was starting to love him even, but the SOLDIER didn't seem like someone who stuck his neck out for people he didn't know. People he loved and cared about, sure. Maybe it's a career move.
Rufus was the first to break the silence. "Who the hell is that and what was that about?" he asked Reno.
"I, eh, wait you don't know who he is?"
Rufus shook his head. "Lazard told me he sent two SOLDIERs to help the Turks but he didn't say who he sent or where he sent them." Rufus sighed before adding. "Ok honestly he might have but my memory hasn't been one hundred percent these past few days."
"Oh, well that's SOLDIER Second Class Genesis Rhapsodos and I don' think Lazard sent him. I kinda stumbled into 'im right in the middle of all this shi' and he was ordered to stay," Reno replied. Accent, watch the accent.
Rufus let that sink in for a minute. That was SSC Rhapsodos? He'd heard about him but his mental image didn't exactly fit with the person he'd just seen. The guy was scrawny looking and short yet he was supposed to be one of the Shinra's best SOLDIER's?
The VP then thought about the fact that Genesis was an unwilling participant in all this. Maybe he did mean what he said, but only so he could betray the Turks once they got to Midgar. He hadn't liked the idea of sending SOLDIERs to work with the Turks but at the time they hadn't had a better option. Lazard had told him they'd volunteered, which apparently wasn't true.
Reno, seemingly reading Rufus's thoughts, said, "No, no, no, it's not like that. He's pissed at us but he ain't going to turn us in."
"What's he got to be pissed about? For that matter how would you know if he'd turn us in or not? You barely know him!" Rufus lashed out.
"I- He- We-," Reno stammered. He took a breath to still his thoughts before continuing. "He's pissed because he just offered to help and we acted like ungrateful dickheads. As for the other, I know him well enough. Shiva we've spent the last, what, two or three days glued to each other's side." He didn't add that the gluing was a mutual want or exactly how they'd been glued together. "It's like being in battle with someone, you get to know their character pretty fucking quick Rufus. He's not going to turn us in."
Rufus was thoughtful for a minute, then sighed and nodded. Reno brought up some good points and he was probably right. He'd spent the last few weeks looking over his shoulders for enemies and now that's all he saw. The SOLDIER hadn't done anything wrong, Ifrit, he'd offered him hope and he'd lashed out at him. He didn't have to trust him right away, but he didn't have to treat him like dirt either. "Fuck."
"My thought exactly yo," Reno said, standing. "I'll go talk to him."
Rufus held up a hand, "No," he said and went after the SSC.
Reno didn't know if that was a good or bad thing, but he let him go. He walked over to the backpack Legend had given him, hoping it had more food. They weren't out yet but another person to feed was going to put a real crunch on their supplies. Before he sat down he looked up and couldn't see Rufus or Genesis anywhere. Is everyone superhuman but me?
Rufus trudged off in the direction that Genesis had disappeared but couldn't find him. How far could he have gone? His forward motion suddenly stopped and he was roughly jerked backwards. He tried to go for his weapon but his position was all wrong. The next thing he knew he was staring into bright blue eyes.
"You should really watch where you're going, Vice President Shinra," Genesis flippantly said, releasing his grip on Rufus.
Rufus was stunned and almost fell flat on his ass when the SOLDIER let him go. He glowered at the SSC, who pointed toward where he was walking, and he looked down into a sinkhole. He would have walked right into it! The VP edged closer and realized it was a monster trap, not a sinkhole. Someone had dug a pit then placed spikes in the bottom. Ouch. He turned around and faced Genesis. "Thank you."
Genesis inclined his head but said nothing. Rufus was eying him like someone eying an Ancient artifact; intent, curious, and perplexed. "Can I do something for you, Sir?"
The SOLDIER said 'sir' so sarcastically that Rufus felt it like a physical blow. Maybe Reno should have talked to him first. He was used to ordering people around and getting what he wanted, when he wanted it. The VP wasn't used to apologizing or trying to smooth things over. These past few days had been a test of his skills and he'd found himself lacking. Ok... so... hone the skills.
"We haven't been properly introduced. I'm Vice President Rufus Shinra," he said, sticking his hand out.
Genesis eyed him warily before shaking the offered hand. "SOLDIER Second Class Genesis Rhapsodos."
Rufus took his hand back and fought not to fidget. For some reason he was intimidated and nervous around Genesis. It wasn't his training, hell he hung out with the Turks all the time and SOLDIERs weren't all that different. So what is it?
Genesis endured being stared at once again for a while, but finally snapped. "If you have something to say, then fucking say it." Rufus took a step back and he smirked.
Odin what was the SOLDIER's problem? He'd come to apologize but he was only getting more pissed off. The nerve of the jac- and then he understood. Genesis intimidated him and made him nervous because he was confident, arrogant even. The SSC didn't give a damn who he was, he wasn't intimidated by him.
Rufus had always had a hard time around people like that and though he was learning, he still faltered. Right now he wasn't faltering, he was failing. He was used to people treating him like royalty, not treating him like just another person. At the realization he started to laugh. Gods that's all I've wanted! That's why I have so much respect for the Turks! Why didn't I see it before? The SOLDIER was doing the same thing, just using a different method, albeit a much more abrasive one. He was jealous of his confidence, attitude, and for just being himself.
"Vice President Shinra, if you have lost, or are going to lose, your mind please do so elsewhere. I've already claimed this spot for my emotional rampage," Genesis said. His tone was equal parts curiosity, annoyance, and exasperation. Rufus only laughed harder, making him scowl. "Fine! I'll go elsewhere!"
"No wait!" laugh, "I'm sorry", another laugh, "Just give me a second." He finally stopped laughing and looked at the SOLDIER. He'd moved farther away than Rufus thought possible in such a short period of time but Genesis had stopped so obviously the SSC could hear him even with the distance.
Genesis took a deep breath and sighed. He didn't want to go back, but he would. Might as well get whatever this is over with. With that he spun and returned to Rufus.
"Fucking shit!" Rufus exclaimed, backing up. Genesis whirled, sword in hand, looking for the threat. "No, I mean, there's nothing there. Just... you."
Genesis sighed and gripped his sword tighter. I should have known. Reno had the same reaction the other day. What's wrong with me? Was he so used to working with other SOLDIERs that he no longer knew how to control his speed? Had he forgotten how to act 'normal'? "Sorry," he said because he couldn't think of anything else.
"No, I'm sorry. I've never actually met a SOLDIER before and it was improper of me to... comment. Look we got off on the wrong foot. When you said you'd help, I thought you were either trying to distract me or had... ulterior motives," Rufus said. "I think you were sincere and my reaction was unjust. I was laughing because I figured out that you... act like I want to, among other things." No reason to tell him I like that he treats me normally.
Genesis relaxed his grip on his sword and finally put it away. "The first part I understood, the second... you... want to be like me? Is that what you just said? Minerva's Gift why?"
"You're confident regardless of who is standing in front of you. It's a skill I haven't completely developed. You're just... you, regardless of circumstance and you don't apologize for it," Rufus replied, almost shyly.
"Oh," Genesis said, shrugging. He was thrown off and had no idea what else to say. That seemed to be happening a lot lately and he didn't like it.
A silence settled over the two as each processed recent events and fully took stock of the other. Rufus quietly broke the silence. "So... was Reno right? Were you serious?"
"About getting to Midgar and helping Tseng?" Genesis asked. Rufus nodded so he added, "Yes."
"Why?"
Genesis couldn't think up something fancy to say so he said the first thing that came to mind, "Because it seems as though the Turks are getting screwed, at least some of them. Because he's important to Reno a-," he cut himself off before he could finish.
"...And...?"
"And Reno's important to me," Genesis replied, blowing out a breath.
The confession took Rufus slightly aback. Was he saying what he thought he was? Reno had been quick to defend the SOLDIER... quick to want to calm him down as well. He must be a great piece of ass. "Holy Gaia you and Reno are dating aren't you?" he said, smirking. No way was it possible but he wanted to see Genesis's reaction and he didn't disappoint. The SSC's head snapped up so quickly Rufus wondered how he didn't suffer whiplash.
"What? No!" Genesis quickly said. Rufus's smirk transformed into a full-blown smile. Son of a - "We are not dating! We just messed around!" Shit! Rufus laughed, eyes twinkling with delight. "Godsdamnit I'm telling the truth!"
"I know," Rufus said. "Reno doesn't date. I'm laughing because you're as fucked as I am."
Genesis was stunned. Was Rufus trying to pissing him off? Maybe the VP knew something he didn't. The blond did hang out with the Turks all the time so he probably knew Reno pretty well. He fought not to reach out and latch his hand onto the kid's neck for answers.
Reno said he'd never felt anything like what he was feeling toward Genesis before, but what if the Turk was just saying that? What if he said that to everyone? Was he using him as a way to blow off steam like Angeal had? He didn't hold it against Angeal, but he would hold it against Reno. For all he knew Reno did this kind of thing all the time; told people what he thought they wanted to hear, got close, had his way with them then left. The Turk had hinted about past experiences but surely he didn't toy with people's emotions to get what he wanted. Or did he... Genesis had assumed he was talking about one-night-stands but those were different. You didn't lead people on for a one-night-stand, that just wasn't part of the game. The tingling started and he didn't fight it, he was too confused and upset to care.
Rufus said, "Well, if you're serious let's get back to Reno and come up with a plan." He took two steps when the SOLDIER raised his head and he froze. His eyes were neon blue and his lips were curled in a nasty smile. Blue light covered the SSC's face, giving it an ethereal quality. The light cast shadows, and combined with the smile, it made him look fucking scary.
"Yes... let's," Genesis said in a scathing tone. He whipped his right hand out and fireballs flew into the monster trap with such force that the spikes on the bottom shattered and were thrown into the air.
Rufus swallowed so loudly he knew the SOLDIER heard him. The fire spell hadn't bothered him, it was the force behind it that did. He knew if he looked into the trap now there would be a crater at the bottom littered with debris. The sheer force of the spell and dirt falling back into place would have put out the flames.
The VP nodded, turned around, and started walking back toward Reno as quickly as he could. He would not run, but he wanted away from the crazy son of a bitch as quickly as possible and Reno would protect him. At least he hoped.
A half hour later and Legend landed the Apache a safe distance away from the Turks makeshift camp. As he powered the chopper down he wondered how badly this was going to go. He knew the Turks wouldn't like being left behind but hoped they were as understanding as Reno had been. If not, well the best he could hope for was minimal bloodshed.
Once the chopper had cycled down Legend opened his door, got out, and started walking. This area wasn't nearly as soggy and flooded as where he'd just left. That combined with the relative flat landscape and this group had likely had a much easier journey than Reno and Genesis. Legend fought a chuckle thinking that the redhead seemed to get the short end of the stick more often than most.
The blond Turk was almost within the perimeter of the camp when his stomach growled and he wondered if he'd get a chance to eat before all hell broke loose. As he closed the distance, a SOLDIER handed him a pair of chopsticks and bowl filled with rice and vegetables, making him wonder exactly how well SOLDIERs could hear. He thanked him, found Tseng, and sat down to eat.
As Legend ate he noted the tense atmosphere in the camp. He wondered if Tseng had already broken the news or if the tension was from not knowing. As he placed the bowl on the ground Rude broke the silence.
"Have you talked to Reno?" asked the bald Turk.
"Yes. He and Genesis are fine. They aren't far from here actually, just over that ridge there." Both Rude and the SOLDIER looked relieved by the answer and the tension level dropped slightly.
"Angeal," Tseng said, standing and moving in the direction of the chopper.
Angeal and Legend's eyes locked, both knowing the silent command Tseng had given. The rest of the Turks sensed something and tensed. Angeal mentally sighed and stood, heading over to Tseng.
"Remember what I said," Tseng said, so low only Angeal could have heard him. The SOLDIER nodded in response and Legend pulled up on the Wutain's other side. He took a deep breath before beginning. "Does anyone here dispute that I am now the Director of the Department of Administrative Research?" Tseng waited but no one challenged the statement. "Good. It is under this capacity that I have been summoned to a board meeting at Shinra headquarters."
At the statement the tension level spiked so high Angeal thought he could cut it with his sword if he tried. Elena, Cissnei, and Rude shifted uneasily but didn't say anything. The three were so still Angeal had to look to see if they were breathing.
"The meeting is set to take place tomorrow," Tseng continued. He paused before adding, "I will attend."
Following Tseng's admission the three too-still Turks suddenly came to life. Cissnei's eyes widened and her jaw dropped open. Elena cried "What! No!" and stood. Rude, who also stood, said, "It's a trap, Sir!" Angeal and Legend exchanged a quick glace but neither commented nor moved.
"Quiet!" the usually stoic Tseng yelled. "I can and I will." He looked straight into Angeal's eyes, telling him to be ready in case things went badly. The Wutain broke the contact and turned back to the now silent Turks. "It may indeed be a trap, which is why I will be going alone."
Now all three Turks were on their feet. Their faces showed almost identical looks of shock, fear, and anger. All three were talking and Angeal only picked out pieces of what each said. He heard Cissnei say '... can't do that', Rude said '... Sir please... about', and Elena said '... no... without you... lead'.
Legend cut the group off with a wave of his hand and looked at Tseng before speaking. The Director nodded so he said, "He won't technically be alone since I will be there. I will do all that I can to keep him safe."
Tseng nodded and turned back to the gathered Turks. "Listen well for this may be my final order. From this point forward Angeal will be in charge of this journey and you will follow his orders as if they were my own. Once in Junon, meet up with Reno and the other SOLDIER. Reno will be the Active Director," he paused and looked at each of the standing Turks. "Do I make myself clear?" No one responded so he raised his voice and repeated, "Do I make myself clear?"
At that each of the Turks nodded, but even from a split second glace anyone could tell they weren't happy about it. Rude was so angry he was clenching and unclenching his hands. Cissnei was visibly shaking and Elena was clearly fighting tears. While Cissnei and Elena didn't appear to be as angry as Rude, Angeal knew that they were, they were just hiding it better.
Immediately following Tseng's orders Legend headed for the chopper. So far no one had pulled a weapon but he was still worried someone would. Not only were they pissed at Shinra for their current predicament; they were now pissed at Tseng for what they perceived to be a rash decision. To top that off, they'd just been ordered to follow a SOLDIER. He didn't know how he felt about that or why the Wutain choose the SSC to lead, but it didn't matter. It is what it is.
Angeal saw Legend slip away but kept his focus on Elena, Rude, and Cissnei. Rude sat down with a defeated look on his face. Cissnei moved over and sat down next to Rude. Elena remained standing and continued to glare at Tseng. She started toward them and Angeal tensed, but Tseng placed a hand on his upper arm and gently pushed. Angeal didn't see a weapon so he stepped aside. He knew she could pull one, but he just had to trust he could disarm her.
"You stupid, overconfident, blind, proud son of a bitch!" Elena yelled. As she finished she used her right hand to slap Tseng hard across the face. The Wutain's head whipped to the right but he quickly faced forward again.
"I am sorry," Tseng said, running his tongue across his lower lip where blood had started to well up. Without another word he abruptly turned and walked away.
Elena lurched forward and Angeal caught her. "Run! That's all you've ever fucking done!"
At her words Tseng stopped in mid step. He turned as though he would speak, but shook his head instead. The Wutain stood for a moment before turning again and walking away.
Angeal started to let go of Elena but she promptly collapsed into his arms as the chopper took to the air. She started crying so he pulled her close, rubbing his right hand on her back for comfort. He saw movement and turned his head just in time to see Cissnei wrap herself around Rude. Both were standing and Angeal chided himself that he hadn't noticed their movement.
The four of them stood that way for quite a while. Elena was now racked with guilt for her comment and for slapping Tseng. Cissnei was simply in shock. She had thought a lot of things could happen but not this. Rude was so pissed off he had to watch how hard he gripped Cissnei, afraid he would squeeze the air right out of her. Angeal looked at all of them and sympathized, but had no idea what to do. SOLDIER training hadn't prepared him for this.
As he took in the shock, horror, sadness, and anger Angeal had a thought. He looked down at Elena, then to Cissnei and Rude before speaking. "Tseng said I was in charge, that my orders were to be treated as if they were his. Wil-," he swallowed before continuing. "Will you follow my command?"
Elena stopped crying, took a step back, and glared at the SSC. Cissnei pulled away from Rude just enough to add her glare to Elena's. Rude didn't move, just added a third glare and said, "Don't push it SOLDIER."
"No I-, that's no-, I don't want to be your Director. What if... if I change the orders... will you follow?" Cissnei looked confused, Elena looked curious, and once again Rude spoke up.
"What the hell are you talking about?"
Angeal walked back into camp and looked at each Turk in turn. "Tseng said to treat my orders as if they were his own right?" The Turks nodded so he continued. "If I changed the orders, that would be the same as Tseng changing them, right?"
"Is there a point to this?" Rude asked sharply.
"Yeah, I order you all to pack up as quickly as possible. We don't have much time and a lot of ground to cover," Angeal said, unfazed.
Elena glared at him and said, "You heard Legend, Junon isn't that far from here. Even so I doubt there's any way we can get there before nightfall if that's what you want."
Angeal smiled and looked at her. "We aren't going to Junon, we're going to Midgar." A stillness settled over the camp at his words.
"What?" Cissnei said in disbelief.
Angeal faced her before replying, "I haven't known Tseng long but I like him. He's honorable and a good leader. There's no way I'm going to let him do this alone but we don't have much time."
Everyone was quiet for a few minutes before Rude spoke. "You have a plan?"
"Eh... no," Angeal replied. "But we have a long walk and that will give us time to think."
"With that chopper, they'll get to Midgar before tomorrow. We can't beat them," Elena said.
"Legend won't take them to Midgar tonight," Rude replied. "He knows the longer Tseng is inside the city the more chance there is that something will go wrong."
"I agree," Cissnei said.
"Then that gives us some time right?" Angeal asked. "We just have to push hard. Gods we have to do something. If we don't even try and something happens… well I don't want to think about that."
Rude nodded and said, "Change of orders understood and accepted." Cissnei and Elena repeated the statement. Angeal thought that was weird, but figured it was a Turk thing.
Cissnei immediately started packing everything. Elena flew back into his arms and gave him a quick squeeze before going to help Cissnei. Rude stood staring at him and said, "We are under your command."
Angeal nodded and started handing things to Cissnei and Elena. Anxiety and uncertainly were still present, but the tension, fear, and despair had been replaced by hope. It was slim, but it was there and seemed to be enough, at least for now. Dear Gaia help us, Angeal thought as they quickly finished and moved out.