Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, scenery, or towns; Square Enix does.
18 – Shopping and Mooning
"Gen!" Reno called. "Wake up Gen!"
At the urgency in Reno's voice, Genesis shot upright. Spider webs rubbed across his head and face, causing him to panic. He hated spiders! The auburn started to frantically try to get the webbing off, but hands latched onto his upper arms, stopping his attempt and making him whimper.
"Genesis!" Genesis went still and whimpered again. "Look at me Genesis."
Genesis slowly raised his head and tried to gain control of his panic. When his head was level, he heard someone whisper 'Kjata's Balls' and jerked his head in that direction. Reno was standing there with his jaw dropped open. His eyes were as wide as dinner plates. What the hell is going on?
"Do you know who I am?"
"Seph- Sephiroth," Genesis replied, voice cracking.
Sephiroth nodded. "Do you know where you are?"
"Son of a bitch," Genesis whispered, feeling like an idiot.
"Don' think that's where you are nushi."
"Oh stuff it," Genesis snapped in a more awake voice while his face flamed. "You can let go of me Sephiroth. I'm fine now."
Sephiroth watched the blazing blue-green fade from the SOLDIER's eyes. Rarely had he ever seen eyes so bright and cast a look at Reno. The Turk had obviously been startled by their appearance as well, making him believe it wasn't a normal occurrence even with the STC's imbalance. When the orbs returned to their normal sky blue color, he let go and straightened himself. "Is this normal?" he asked of no one in particular, just to confirm his suspicions. His eyebrows rose when Genesis said 'yes' and Reno said 'no'. He stepped away from the auburn and watched as the two exchanged a look he couldn't decipher.
"What do you mean 'yes'? You've never not woken up before!" Reno said. "Never had flashlights for eyes either."
"I've had troub-, wait, what?"
"You wouldn't wake up Gen," Reno repeated. He walked over and kneeled down in front of the auburn, who was sitting on the couch. "You feel asleep with yer head in my lap while we were watchin' TV. I tried to wake you up around 12:30, but you wouldn't budge. I shook ya, slapped ya, and yelled at ya. After 15 minutes of that, I got yer PHS and called Sephiroth. I was afraid to leave you alone and I didn't think you'd want Tseng to know."
"Wouldn't wake up?" Genesis parroted.
"What were you thinking of when you said yes?" Sephiroth questioned, drawing both sets of eyes toward him.
"Waking up confused," Genesis replied. "I-," he looked away, embarrassed, "when I woke up I thought your hair was spider webs and panicked. What do you mean flashlights for eyes?"
"Heh, spider webs," Reno snickered. "Ouch!" he yelped when Genesis smacked him on the arm. "Yer eyes were bright enough ta light a godsdamned room up."
"How long does the confusion last?" Sephiroth questioned, interrupting the two.
"Not long. A minute or less."
Sephiroth blew air out of his mouth in relief. "It's the Mako. You'll be fine."
"Fine? He wouldn't wake up yo!"
"Reno he'll be fine, though if he doesn't wake up again notify me immediately."
"Has this happened to you?" Genesis asked hopefully.
"Yes. When we sleep, our metabolism changes, which changes our Mako levels slightly. When we wake up the levels shift again. If you're already suffering an imbalance, no matter how slight, it can take longer to adjust when you wake up. That can cause disorientation and confusion."
"So why wouldn't he wake up at all?" Reno asked.
"Possibly because he wasn't asleep for very long. Depending on what stage of sleep he was in, his Mako level might have been right in the middle of rising or falling. SOLDIERs have been known to not wake easily during that time, especially if their Mako levels are out of balance in the first place. The brightness of his eyes supports that theory as well."
"Are they still bright?" Genesis asked. Both men shook their head and he sighed in relief. "What time is it?"
"12:54," Sephiroth replied.
Genesis nodded. "You can go get Tseng if you want. I'm fine now, seriously."
"Tseng would like to speak with you, alone," Sephiroth stated.
"About what?"
"If I knew the topic of discussion, why would he wish to speak with you alone?"
"Look smartass, he might think I'd be more forthcoming alone, whether you knew the topic or not," Genesis snapped.
Sephiroth thought for a minute before replying, "I had not thought of that."
"Of course you hadn't," Genesis muttered without thinking. He winced and sighed before replying, "Sorry. I'm bitchy apparently. It'll probably wear off in a few," he said, standing.
"Understandable," Sephiroth replied.
Genesis opened his mouth then promptly closed it. He wanted to ask, 'are you always so fucking agreeable?' but knew that was his bitchiness again. Least I'm not flinging fireballs around. At that, he realized he hadn't felt any tingling in his hands for two days or better. As he strode to the door, he wondered if his control was that much better, if his Mako level was finally adjusting, or if it was something else entirely. A certain delightful man with a seductive smile, quick wit, and eyebrow raising quirks with vibrant red hair popped into his head and he smiled. "I'll be back with Tseng in a few," he said, grabbing his sword and opening the door.
"We'll be here yo," Reno called.
The door slid shut behind him and he took a deep breath and stretched. He was still fighting the lingering embarrassment from his episode, but at least he was fully coherent now. It felt good to be alone, even if only for a moment and even if there were people within 20 feet of him. After a brief respite, he stepped forward and knocked on Tseng's door.
"Yes?"
"It's Genesis." The door slid open in response.
"Please enter and be welcome," Tseng said, bowing slightly at the waist.
How very formal, Genesis thought. Aloud, he bowed and said, "Domo arigato gozaimasu, Tseng-sama."
"You speak Wutainese?" Tseng replied with a look somewhere between surprised and pleased.
"Hai," Genesis replied, entering the apartment. Compared to Reno's apartment, Tseng's was an explosion of color. The walls were a medium beige color and the floors were a sunny hardwood. There was a medium brown couch with a black hardwood frame, two medium orange chairs, and a black coffee table in the living room. The furniture had cream, orange, and white throw pillows and there were silver, rectangular floor lamps in each corner of the room. The final touch was plants scattered here and there. Some were floor plants, some were vines, and some were small plants placed neatly on metal shelves and floor holders.
"Did you paint those?" Genesis asked, indicating calligraphy kana symbol paintings scattered on the walls. The symbols were painted in black, gold, and red.
"Yes. Do you read as well?"
"Strength, fire, life, courage, believe, serenity, and passion," Genesis said in reply.
"Would you like some tea?" Tseng smiled.
Genesis thought for a few seconds before replying, "Yes, please." Not like we're on a time schedule. Tseng's smile widened and he moved toward the kitchen, gesturing for Genesis to follow.
The sunny hardwood floor flowed from the living room into the kitchen uninterrupted. The cabinets were done in light beige and the countertops were an immaculate white, making the room brighter than the living room. Some of the cabinet doors had been removed to add depth and the shelving he could see was also white. The refrigerator, stove, and sink were all stainless steel. There was a dining table with a light wood top and four chairs of the same color. Each piece was accented with steel that matched the appliances. There were also two tall floor plants in each corner where the living room and kitchen meet. The final addition was a small bonsai tree as a centerpiece on the table.
"Please be seated. It will be just a moment," Tseng said, waving toward the kitchen table.
Genesis eased into a chair and tried to prepare himself for the coming discussion. Admittedly that was difficult since he didn't know the topic, however he assumed it was Reno. Thanks to Reno's story the other day, he knew their relationship crossed from simple boss and subordinate into the realm of friendship, albeit a potentially lose and complicated one. The upcoming discussion was something he'd expected however. Even before Reno's story, he'd already figured out the redhead was well liked and well respected within the Turks, and the Turks were a tight knit bunch.
Tseng busied himself with the tea preparation, keeping one eye on the SOLDIER the entire time. It wasn't that he particularly mistrusted the STC; it was habit. In addition, he wasn't used to having anyone in his apartment other than the Turks. The Wutain wasn't including Sephiroth since more than once he'd forgotten the man was there at all. The silver SSC said very little and made himself as invisible as possible. Not exactly what something would expect from a houseguest.
When the water finished heating, Tseng placed the kettle on a serving tray and carried it to the table. He poured tea into one of the white teacups and handed it to the STC. "Would you like anything to go with it?"
"No thank you," he replied, eyeing the cup in his hands. It was made of porcelain and white with cherry bloom branches painted on it. He suspected that if the cups where placed just so next to the teapot, the branches would extend from one piece to another, forming almost an entire tree.
"The set was a gift, though I must say I enjoy it," Tseng said, reading the STC's thoughts.
"I'd expected something darker from you. Actually, I expected that of your entire apartment."
"Black on black?"
Genesis chuckled, "Dark blues, greens, and grays, perhaps some red here and there. You know, assassin chic."
"Are you disappointed?"
"No."
The pair sat in silence for a few minutes and enjoyed their tea. Genesis's lack of patience finally reared up and he asked, "What did you want to talk about?"
"How well do you know SOLDIER Second Class Sephiroth?" Tseng replied without preamble.
"Sephiroth?" Genesis parroted. His first reaction was surprise but it was quickly clouded by suspicion. "Why?"
"Please just answer the question."
"If you brought me over here to interrogate me, it's not going to happen. Great tea or not," Genesis snapped.
Tseng inwardly chuckled, face remaining blank. One of the reasons he'd asked to speak with Genesis was to get a feel for him, which meant some probing and testing. He had pushed and the SOLDIER's reaction was not unexpected. Perhaps it is a redhead thing. "I am simply curious, STC Rhapsodos."
"I believe I told you to call me Genesis."
"So you did."
Genesis narrowed his eyes and took a sip of tea. From experience he knew the conversation was a stalemate at this point. He could answer the question or leave. It was possible Tseng would elaborate if he tried to leave, but he wasn't certain. The auburn sighed, placed his cup on the table, and said, "Not well."
"How many missions have you worked together?"
"Until this incident, none." Tseng's right eyebrow rose and he lifted one to match it. "I'm sure you can access our mission records. Verify it yourself if you don't believe me."
"It is not that. I am perplexed."
"Serves you right," Genesis snickered, glad he wasn't the only one.
Tseng suppressed a chuckle and leaned back in his chair. It was clear that Genesis had played this game before and it would be hard to get the man to talk unless the STC wanted to. Regardless of who it was he didn't think the auburn would be easily intimidated or broken. The young SOLDIER very much reminded him of Reno, but there were marked differences between the two.
Reno dealt with things through humor. He was an optimist who would find good in any situation, no matter how long it took. Leviathan, he'd been known to create a bright spot if one didn't exist, especially if he saw someone being overwhelmed by the bad. That was also an earmark of Reno; he was constantly aware of those around him and would try to lift them up, even if he didn't know them.
Tseng took a sip of his tea and eyed the auburn. He had a feeling that many of the qualities he found endearing in Reno he wouldn't find in Genesis, which wasn't necessarily a bad thing. While he didn't think the SOLDIER was uncaring, he didn't think he made a habit out of raising people's spirits unless he was close to them. It might take someone a very long time to get close to him, if they ever really did since the STC seemed closed off and abrasive. Genesis certainly didn't strike him as an optimist like Reno; rather he appeared pessimistic and cynical.
That brought Tseng to perhaps the biggest difference between the two. Unlike the jaded SOLDIER, Reno approached everything with a fresh outlook. He couldn't tell just how bitter the SOLDIER was, but it was there. Surprisingly, bitterness was something he rarely saw in Reno, regardless of his past. He didn't know the SOLDIER's history and wondered what had happened to shape him in such a way, as he couldn't be all that old.
Tseng pulled himself back to reality with a sigh. From his thoughts, he'd concluded that if he wanted answers he'd have to try a more open approach. He could push harder, but he'd be unlikely to get anywhere. The Wutain needed to learn more about the SOLIDER and his personality before knowing where and how to push. Right now if he forced it, the most likely result would be that the STC simply left. While he wouldn't stop him, he didn't want to cause friction, at least not yet. He really didn't want to cause potential problems for Reno at this point either. "I concede."
"Then start talking," Genesis replied.
Once again the SOLDIER threw Tseng. It wasn't his directness; it was the lack of arrogance or victory in the reply. The tone hadn't held boredom or indifference either; it was simply a statement. The STC acted like this was an everyday occurrence and it puzzled him. How familiar is he with this game? "Very well," he said, pouring more tea. "Would you like more?"
"Please."
Tseng filled their cups and continued, "How much do you know about Sephiroth?"
"Aside from news stories and press releases not much."
Tseng nodded. "Are you aware that he has never been written up?"
"I assumed as much. He's Shinra's wonder boy after all."
"Then you must also realize he has never disobeyed an order, whether big or small."
"Maybe he just never got caught."
"Highly doubtful, though not entirely inconceivable."
"Ok so he's the perfect SOLDIER. Is this going somewhere?" Genesis snapped.
"Think about it from my point of view," Tseng replied, unfazed. "Why would Shinra's impeccably obedient SOLDIER suddenly start breaking rules without any apparent concern or second thought?"
How the hell should I know? Genesis thought, and then it hit him. "You don't trust him."
"Not entirely, no."
"So what, you think he's working both sides or something?"
"The thought has crossed my mind." Genesis scoffed and he added, "Consider this, who is to say Shinra has not ordered him to play along to get definitive proof of our misdeeds? Perhaps he is also trying to find out who are supporters and sources are and to find out what else we may have planned."
Genesis leaned back in his chair and crossed his legs. Is he fucking serious? By nature, he was suspicious, but Tseng made him look downright gullible. It was true he wasn't trying to protect an entire department, but damn, he thought Tseng might have slipped from suspicious to paranoid. There was no way Sephiroth was a plant. Was there? Ifrit now I'm doing it!
The STC looked back over the past week with a critical eye. It was true Sephiroth had just popped up out of nowhere. With a vehicle exactly when they'd needed it. At the time, he'd taken his explanation at face value, but was there more to it? Shinra could have discovered their location and sent Sephiroth in as an agent. While possible, it didn't seem likely. As far as he knew, Sephiroth had no direct contact with any of the Turks until they'd gotten to Midgar, though he'd had plenty of opportunity. Sephiroth hadn't sought them out at all; he'd gone after him.
In addition, while Sephiroth had agreed to help the Turks get into the building, he hadn't done so eagerly. If he'd been working for Shinra, he should have been more receptive to the idea since he would have known the outcome and not faced punishment regardless of his actions. Sephiroth hadn't even really asked him questions about the Turks or their activities. He'd really only asked about him. And Reno. Yet the discussion about Reno had been about their relationship, not the Turks.
It was true Sephiroth seemed to be facing no punishment for being involved in the incident, but according to the faked reports he'd played a minor role only. During his time spent with the man the silver SSC had been listed as being on an active mission as well. Why should they punish him? To top that off, Sephiroth was Shinra's golden boy and the man had zero reason to suspect the SSC would ever go against or betray him.
There were also the little things he'd noticed when the two had been alone in the beach hut. While Sephiroth had implied he'd been with the company for a long time, he hadn't seemed happy about it. Mention of isolation cells and a lack of friends had been done with a bitterness bordering on malice and hate. There were times where he'd thought Sephiroth was afraid of the Shinra Company, especially in reference to the labs.
Drawing his own verdict Genesis pulled himself away from his thoughts and eyed Tseng suspiciously, "Why did you want to talk to me about this? If you suspect Sephiroth is secretly working for President Shinra why not talk to the other Turks? Why would you talk to another SOLIDER for Odin's sake? Unless of course you suspect me of something as well."
"Until now, I thought the two of you might be close. Many would disregard orders to help a friend. I thought perhaps Sephiroth was no different in that regard."
"Until now?" Genesis asked, his voice even more suspicious than before.
"Now I do not know what to think."
"Fair enough," Genesis shrugged. "You're wrong about him though," he added, finishing his tea.
"Oh?"
"Don't ask me to explain it Tseng because I can't. I just know you're wrong. He's not working for the dickhead upstairs."
"Cannot or will not?"
"A bit of both actually."
"Very well. What of you?" Tseng asked.
"If you're seriously implying I'm spying for Shinra, you're dead wrong."
"Why is that?"
"This place pisses me off," Genesis snorted. "I could care less what these power hungry bastards say or do."
"If you dislike the company so much, why are you here?"
"My reasons are my own," retorted Genesis, standing. "I will give you two reasons for my involvement with the Turks however."
"Alright."
"First, it really pisses me off when good people are screwed over and disregarded like trash. Second, regardless of what you might or might not think, I really do care about Reno and he cares about all of you."
"That does not mean you have to care about us."
"Not personally no, but by extension yes. If Reno's unhappy, I'm unhappy. During all this I saw a look on his face I never want to see again and I'll do what I can to keep it at bay."
"Would you elaborate on that?"
"No," Genesis replied. "Not until I know you better."
Tseng nodded and placed his empty cup beside the SOLDIER's on the serving tray. He carried the tray to the sink, rinsed everything out, and turned back to Genesis. "Perhaps in the future we can speak again, in more detail."
"Maybe."
Tseng watched as the SOLDIER fought some sort of internal battle. He looked as though he was reluctant to say something. "Say it Genesis, whatever it is. You have not cared about rank or protocol this entire time."
"I rarely care about rank or protocol," Genesis snorted.
"Then what is holding you back?"
"Confidentiality," Genesis replied through a breath. "Look, leave Sephiroth alone ok? If you don't trust him fine, don't say shit around him but don't corner him with nothing but suspicion."
"If I discover more than suspicion?"
"Then notify me." At Tseng's hesitance he added, "You said the Turks and yourself owe me a debt. If you find proof, or think you've found proof, bring me in before you confront him and both debts will be repaid."
"It is that important to you," Tseng replied. It was a statement, not a question. Genesis nodded and he added, "I acquiesce. If at all possible I will bring you in."
"Your word," Genesis demanded.
Tseng cocked an eyebrow. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't seem to get a firm handle on the STC. One minute he was uncaring and the next he was fiercely protective. "My word."
Genesis nodded. "We should really get over there before Reno drives Sephiroth to murder." Tseng's eyebrow shot up again and he chuckled, "Quiet and withdrawn meets the overly chatty and outgoing. Talk about a clash."
"Let me get my shoes. I am not as liberated as yourself," Tseng replied, waving a hand toward the SOLDIER's socked feet.
"Heh, didn't seem worth putting on boots just to go across the hallway and remove them again."
"I usually do not force guests to remove their shoes."
"I didn't know that. Besides, it's polite to remove them," Genesis replied, moving to the door.
"I thank you. If there is anything in the bags we you traveling with that you would like, the sacks are in the guest bedroom."
"How'd they get here?" Genesis asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Sephiroth and Legend retrieved them from a vehicle."
"Oh?"
Tseng nodded. "Apparently Sephiroth loaned a vehicle to the Turks that he acquired from the science department. After we returned here the night of the meeting, Sephiroth stated he needed to give the vehicles location to the science department since it would draw attention if he said nothing. I agreed and he contacted Legend using my PHS. Legend removed everything pertaining to the events before the meeting. After that he and Sephiroth brought the packs here and Sephiroth called President Shinra and gave the vehicle's location."
"Shinra wasn't suspicious?"
"No. According to Professor Hollander Sephiroth was asked to test the vehicle during his last mission."
"What?"
"That was Sephiroth's reaction as well, non-vocal of course."
"Great, a loose end or something," Genesis sighed. "How did Sephiroth get the packs up here? He was supposed to be watching you."
"He and Legend took turns bringing everything in through the window. I was never alone for more than five minutes."
"Enough time to pull something yet you still don't trust him," Genesis scoffed, earning a shrug from Tseng. "I don't need anything from the packs though you might ask Reno if he does," he added after a lengthy pause. There were some accessories in there but he didn't know what they actually did. Besides the new SOLDIER director would probably want them back since he was the one that provided them.
Genesis watched as Tseng sat on a bench to the left side of the door and slipped on his shoes. While he didn't know the man well, he respected him and wasn't annoyed by their discussion. He couldn't really blame Tseng for being suspicious, even if he did think it was unfounded. Every decision and action the man made seemed to be made with the welfare of his department in mind. A man who was concerned about his people got his respect so long as he didn't push it too far.
Shoes snugly in place, the Turk stood, opened the door, and gestured toward the opening. "Shoes or not I'm supposed to be watching you," Genesis said, motioning that Tseng go first. "Nice try though."
Tseng nodded and walked through the open door. The STC followed and stood off to one side while he locked up. Once he was finished, Genesis moved to Reno's door, knocked once, and motioned for him to enter. He never took his eyes off of him and Tseng wondered if it was all for show or whether the STC didn't trust him. Perhaps he hasn't made up his mind. That rather mirrored his own sentiments.
"Yo boss," Reno called as Tseng walked through the door.
"Reno," Tseng replied. He nodded to Sephiroth who was standing in the far corner of the room. The position gave him a view of the door, the windows, and every other way into the room. "You have paper, do you not?"
"Heh, I'm not so primitive that I don't have basic items yo," Reno grinned. "There's paper and pens on that shelf over there."
As Tseng retrieved the items, Sephiroth walked over to Genesis. "Are you still up to shopping?" he quietly asked so neither Reno nor Tseng would hear.
"Gods I'm dying to get out of here for awhile," Genesis replied. Sephiroth raised an eyebrow and he chuckled. "No problems. I just don't like being pent up in one place for too long. At least not when I'm forced to be there and can't come and go as I please. Too much like prison."
Sephiroth nodded and turned toward Tseng and Reno. "Before you begin your work, would you both make a list for Genesis to take to the store? I'm told the President will issue his final verdict no later than the day after tomorrow, so it should be for a day or two."
"Really?" Reno asked. Sephiroth nodded and he turned his head to Genesis. "Whatever ya get is fine with me yo."
Genesis nodded. "Is there anything you don't like or anything in particular you want? Anything you're allergic to?"
"No allergies and I'll eat anything at least once but grab something ta drink besides water. Probably be easier to get tha' in the building though cause you won't have ta carry it all over the place."
Genesis nodded as Tseng rose and approached them. The Turk handed him a small piece of paper as Sephiroth pulled a small pouch from his pants pocket. "You have good taste," Genesis said, reading the Turk's list as the pouch dropped into his hand.
"Thank you," Tseng replied before going back to Reno.
"How long will it take you?" Sephiroth asked.
"Two hours tops. Probably less," Genesis replied, looking around for his boots. He could have sworn he'd left them by the door. The auburn tried to remember the last time he wore them. Must have been sometime last night.
"Bedroom," Reno called, not looking up from whatever he was writing.
Genesis fought a blush and walked toward the hallway. It was hard to move at a normal pace since he wanted to run from embarrassment, but he managed. He knew Sephiroth and Tseng knew they were dating, but he was still uncomfortable at flaunting it.
Entering the bedroom, he looked around and finally spotted his boots sitting just outside the bathroom. Then he remembered the last time he'd worn them had been during his interrupted conversation with Angeal. He'd taken them off before getting into the shower. The auburn sighed, put his boots on, and headed back into the living room. "I'll be back soon," he called, slipping out the door.
20 minutes later, Genesis deeply inhaled the fresh air just off the steps of the Shinra building with a smile. He'd stopped by his own apartment to retrieve some gil of his own and to change his clothes. Instead of his Third Class uniform, he was now wearing black jeans and a dark blue button down, long sleeved shirt.
In uniform, he was often stopped for various reasons. Sometimes people would simply ask questions about the SOLDIER program or what it was like being a SOLDIER, sometimes they'd ask directions, sometimes they'd ask him to stop a fight or report a crime, and sometimes they'd rant and rave about how much they hated Shinra and how the company was destroying the planet. Whether big or small, good or bad, he didn't want the hassles today.
The top of his head was warming from the sun and he turned his face upwards. The weather was pleasant, sunny and around 20-21 degrees Celsius. His ears picked up a thousand different sounds, everything from people talking to construction work to children playing. He imagined Midgar as a giant wasps nest. In his mind, people had wings and huge bee-like eyes, making him laugh. The auburn laughed more as he pictured Reno, Tseng, and Sephiroth. Which one looked more ridiculous was hard to say, but he was leaning toward Tseng.
Genesis pulled himself from his thoughts and looked around, wondering where he should head. Some of the sectors were a mess and not finished, hence the construction noises. He finally made his way to the Sector 1 train station. From there he would head below plate and into Sector 5. Many didn't realize it, but Sector 5 had the best food market in Midgar. Most just assumed that the shops above plate where the best, but they weren't. Below plate, food stores were restocked daily since many farmers and other suppliers sold items for gil daily, unlike those above plate. That translated to fresher and often better quality ingredients. On top of that, they were cheaper and contained more regional fares from all over Gaia.
After a quick trip the SOLDIER exited the train and walked to Wall Market. There were people all over the place, from all over the place, and it made him smile. The lack of sunlight certainly didn't seem to bother people here much. The auburn pulled Tseng's list from his right back jean pocket and blended into the crowd.
45 minutes later Genesis had procured everything on Tseng's list as well as enough food to feed Reno and himself for a few days, at least he hoped. Reno did seem to enjoy food, which made him wonder how the hell he stayed so damned skinny. Bags in hand, he labeled the trip a success, headed back to the train station, and up to the Sector 1 plate.
Instead of heading directly back to Sector 0 and Shinra, he headed into Sector 8. Sector 8 was mostly the entertainment district for the upper plates; however, there were a few boutiques, shops, and apartment houses as well. The Sector was a stark contrast to the one he'd just come from and it never failed to amaze him how diverse Midgar was. It wasn't just the difference between the slums and upper crust, above or below plate either.
Genesis window-shopped and watched people go about their lives. The pace up here was much slower, probably because they had more gil. Even so, he blended in as easily here as he had in the slums and no one paid him much attention.
The auburn spotted a vendor cart and stopped to purchase some iced tea. As he was waiting, he eyed the immediate stores and spotted something of interest in the window of a store with no apparent name. He paid the vendor, grabbed his beverage, and headed to the store. 15 minutes later he was excitedly heading back to Shinra HQ.
Inside SEPC, he purchased some soda and headed to the 50th floor. The auburn stopped outside Reno's door, knocked once, and entered. Tseng and Reno were sitting on the couch, using the coffee table as a desk. Sephiroth was back in the far corner of the room and Genesis wondered if the silver ever got bored simply standing there doing nothing.
"Welcome back yo," Reno said, lifting his head from whatever the two Turks were working on.
Genesis nodded and headed into the kitchen to put the groceries away. "Would you like me to put yours in here as well Tseng?" he called, unpacking items into the refrigerator.
"That will not be necessary. We are done for today and I would like to begin making dinner for Sephiroth and myself," Tseng replied, standing. "I have had enough takeout for awhile."
Tseng handed Sephiroth his keycard, knowing there was no way the silver SOLDIER would help him carry the items. It wasn't personal, the SSC was supposed to be on duty and vigilant. Sephiroth quietly accepted the card and moved to the door while he took the bags from Genesis.
"See ya tomorrow," Reno called, standing and stretching.
"Tomorrow," Tseng replied, gliding through the open door. Sephiroth nodded before exiting and the door slid shut.
"You look amazing," Reno stated, eyeing Genesis. The jeans were snug, but not too snug and the shirt made his eyes bluer.
"Thank you."
"What did ya get?" Reno asked after a pause. He tried to head into the kitchen but the STC stopped him, holding an arm in his path.
"Edible items," Genesis replied.
"Smartass," Reno laughed. "So what's fer dinner?"
"I haven't decided. Go sit down on the couch."
"You making me dinner yo?"
"If you're lucky," Genesis smirked. "Sit," he added, pointing at the couch.
Reno raised an eyebrow and crossed his arms over his chest. "A man shouldn't be ordered 'round in his own apartment," he teased.
"Pfft, sit!" Genesis demanded.
"Ok, ok," Reno relented with a laugh. He didn't know what the SOLDIER was up to, but he was persistent. It wasn't as if Genesis was being a dick or anything either. He heard rustling as the auburn dug around in one of the bags and he plopped down on the couch. Seconds later, he jumped as Genesis appeared in front of him with a black box. "Damnit yo!"
"Sorry," said the auburn sheepishly, looking down at the floor.
"It's ok," Reno soothed. "I'm getting used to it. What's that?"
"A present," Genesis replied, brightening instantly.
"Present?"
"Yes, here," beat the STC, holding the box out.
Reno looked up at the auburn's bright smile and felt one curve his lips upward. He got me a present? he thought, taking the offered box. Wonder what it is? The package wasn't wrapped and his fingers quickly pried the lid open. He peeled back tissue paper and felt his smile expand from ear to ear. "No way!"
"Do you like them?" asked Genesis, nervously shifting from one foot to the other. "I guess it's not much of a gift bu-," he was cut off as Reno's lips crashed into his. When did he stand up!
"I love 'em," Reno replied, pulling back. He grabbed the box, sat back down on the couch, and untangled a set goggles from the tissue paper protecting them.
They looked similar to his old ones though he could tell they were much higher quality. The lenses were roughly the same shape as his old ones but were a shade or two darker and thicker. There was also padding around the lenses on the inside that his old ones didn't have. Instead of braided nylon that wrapped around his head, these ones had slim posts like sunglasses. At the end of one arm, there was a loop and he wondered what it was for until he noticed the right arm was thicker than the other. He used his thumb and index finger to gently push on it and an extension piece easily slid out. The extension had a small clasp on it that attached to the loop, ensuring they stayed in place and fit snugly. The extension also automatically locked into place on each side so it didn't slide around or come undone.
"I- I noticed you hadn't been wearing yours, then I remembered they broke during the crash. It's not romantic or anything but, well I just thought you might like them," Genesis said into the silence.
"Like I said, I love 'em," replied Reno, slipping the goggles onto his forehead. They were so lightweight he could hardly tell they were there! His other ones had made the back of his head itchy, but without a strap, these sure as hell wouldn't. As he slid them over his eyes, the padding instantly formed to the shape of his eyes and nose, blocking all light and creating a snug, comfortable fit.
As he moved them up and down a few times to test the darkness of the lenses, his left index finger met with a small, upraised piece. "What's that do?" he asked, hitting the button. He hissed as insanely bright light overpowered his vision. "Ouch," he said, lifting the things up so he could see, blinking his eyes to clear his sight.
"Night vision," Genesis giggled. "Tap the button again and they'll go into thermal mode. There's a button on the right side as well. It's a zoom function."
"No shit?" Reno replied. He tapped the left button again before placing them back on his nose. Everything was in shades of blue, yellow, green, orange, and red. "Yer hot," he grinned, tapping them again, returning the view to normal.
The Turk rose and walked to the window before hitting the button on the right. Immediately the scene before him magnified. An LED display popped up that showed what magnification he was in as well as the distance to whatever he was looking at. He hit the button a few times and discovered the zoom was quite powerful at the higher levels and there was a powerful stabilizer that kept the scene from jerking around. The redhead stood there for a moment, looking around at things that were miles away but appeared to be right in front of him. It was fascinating and gave him time to figure out what to say to the SOLDIER.
Reno was more than pleased with the gift, but slightly uncomfortable. His old goggles had been Shinra issue and didn't have half the features these did. He knew Rude's shades had thermal and night vision and were quiet pricey; these were better than Rude's. These had ta cost a fuckin' fortune! Reno finally tapped the zoom button until his vision returned to normal before turning around.
"If you're in zoom and don't want to cycle through all the different magnifications, you can hold the button down for a second and it will shut off."
Reno nodded and positioned the goggles on his forehead. For some reason he felt better, less vulnerable. Must be a comfort thing. Aloud he said, "Thank you." His voice cracked and he wanted to kick himself. He settled for looking at the ground
"You're welcome," Genesis replied. After a pause he asked, "You ok?"
"Yeah. It's jus-," Reno cut himself off and crossed his arms over his chest. "No one's ever bought me anything so nice before. I don't know what to say."
Genesis smiled and closed the distance between the two. He used the fingers of his right hand to gently turn the Turk's face upward. "That you like them and said thank you is enough Reno."
"Doesn't seem like it," Reno replied, circling his arms around the SOLDIER.
"It is," Genesis said, pressing his lips to the redheads.
What started out as a chaste kiss quickly became something more. Reno used the tip of his tongue to draw small circles on the roof of Genesis's mouth. He placed his left leg in between the SOLDIER's and pulled him closer with a sigh.
Genesis was completely engrossed in the kiss. He didn't argue or attempt to fight as Reno picked him up and switched their positions. At least I didn't yelp, he thought, running his fingers through the Turk's soft hair. He gasped and leaned his head on Reno's shoulder as the Turk's left hand started rubbing the front of his jeans. When the redhead worked the button open he whispered, "You don't have to do this to thank me."
"I know," Reno replied. "It's just, whenever you're near I can't seem to control myself. It's like I have to touch you, need to touch you."
Genesis inhaled sharply as Reno's hand wrapped around his now free member and gently squeezed. "Not that I'm complaining, but is that good or bad?"
"I dunno," Reno said, kissing the STC's neck and sliding his hand back and forth. "I don't care either." With that, he dropped to his knees and licked each side of the cock in front of him before licking the underside.
Genesis moaned and placed his right hand on Reno's shoulder. The back of his head thumped into the window behind him as the Turk slowly enveloped his member with his mouth. He inhaled sharply as Reno began to lightly trail his fingers around his testicles before palming them. Lightening raced through his system and he dug his fingers into the Turk's shoulder with a groan. His hips began to move of their own accord to the pace Reno had set and the Turk moaned, sending vibrations through his shaft.
Reno found himself delighting in the pleasure he was causing. Every sound the SOLDIER made caused his heart to skip a beat; every twitch caused his stomach to flip. Genesis tilted his head forward and their eyes locked. The STC panted and watched him, exciting him immensely. His own body had responded long ago and he wondered if he would come from Genesis's reactions alone.
Genesis had become transfixed at the sight of his member disappearing and reappearing from Reno's mouth. The intensity in his blue-gray eyes also held him. He sparred a moment of wonder at the fact that Reno had somehow completely destroyed his hesitancy to look into eyes during such intimate acts.
The auburn felt the redhead swallow and his dick all but vanished. Reno continued to swallow and he panted and writhed for him. He felt fingers brush his left hand and he quickly latched onto them, interweaving them with his own, and giving a squeeze. His other hand detached from the Turk's shoulder and he gently stroked the side of his face. It was the best he could do since words had abandoned him some time ago.
Had Reno not had a dick in his mouth he would have smiled at the affection Genesis was showing. As it was, he wanted to cry for some damned reason. Thankfully, his own aching cock was holding that particular emotion in check. He hollowed his cheeks and began to inch backward. The motion made the tips of Genesis's fingers brush his own dick and he almost came right then. The STC must have noticed his reaction and began trailing his fingers from the base of the shaft to his lips.
Genesis crookedly smirked at Reno's reaction to him touching himself. Every time he touched the Turk's lips, the redhead would moan and hum with pleasure and his eyes sparkled with excitement. The acknowledgement was definitely not helping him maintain his flagging control, but it was worth it. When his cock was completely out of Reno's mouth, the Turk sucked in his fingers in its place. "You are positively, breathtakingly sexy," Genesis breathed.
Reno gently bit down on Genesis's fingers through a smirk. His heart pounded and his cock twitched. He sucked the fingers almost dry before pouncing on the dick before him again. The STC yelped and he heard a thud as the auburn slammed his head backward. He joyfully hummed before returning to his task with a much faster pace.
"Gods," Genesis breathed, running his right hand through the redhead's hair. Reno looked up at him with so much ecstasy in his eyes that he bent over a little, overwhelmed. He panted and shifted his hand back to the Turk's shoulder for support. "Reno!" he cried a few minutes later as his body was overcome with pleasure.
Reno slowed his pace as the STC came, but he didn't stop or withdraw. The man twitched and jerked for him and he lapped up his offering with a feeling of intense happiness. For a second he wondered if he'd joined Genesis in release, but as his rock hard cock pulsed against his pants, he realized he hadn't. It was as if he was riding on the auburn's orgasm, somehow joining with him. He'd never felt anything like it but it was amazing.
Once the twitching stopped and Genesis relaxed, Reno scooted backward a bit and the STC damn near fell into his arms. "I did ok then?" Reno laughed.
"Words... fail me..." Genesis replied, gasping for breath.
"Good ta hear," grinned the redhead, stealing what breath Genesis had for a kiss. The SOLDIER wrapped a hand around his head and kissed him passionately before pulling back for air.
"What about you?" Genesis asked after regaining his breath.
"Me?" At the look on the STC's face he laughed. "Oh, that. I'm fine yo. Fer now anyway."
"You don't wa-"
"All I want is for you to lay here with me for awhile and then we can make dinner," Reno said, cutting the STC off.
"You sure?"
"Yes."
"Ok," conceded the auburn, putting his clothes in order and snuggling up against Reno.
"Yer ass is on the window," Reno laughed a couple of minutes later.
"What?"
"Yer ass, look."
Genesis turned his head toward the window and saw the outline of his butt on the glass. "Oh my Gods! We have to wipe it off!" he exclaimed, trying to get up.
"In a minute," Reno laughed, holding the STC down.
"What if someone shows up?"
"Then stand in front of it yo."
Genesis scowled but it quickly melted into laughter in the face of the amusement sparkling in the Turk's eyes. He buried his bright red face into the crook of Reno's shoulder.
"So I had the appetizer, what's for dinner again?" asked the Turk when the laughter faded.
Genesis felt his face flame up once more. Need to stop acting like a schoolgirl! "Okonomiyaki," he mumbled into the Turk's neck.
"Never heard of it."
"It's Wutain. I thought of it when I was at Tseng's," Genesis replied, lifting his head. "It's sort of like pizza I guess."
"Sounds good." He paused then added, "Speaking of Tseng's, what did you two talk about?"
"Sephiroth."
"Huh?"
Genesis thought for a second then settled for the truth. "Tseng doesn't trust Sephiroth."
"You serious?" Reno asked, eyebrows shooting up.
Genesis nodded. "He thinks it's possible Sephiroth is spying on us for President Shinra."
After a pause Reno said, "I don't know what to say yo."
"Do you think it's possible?"
"Anything's possible, but Sephiroth spying for Shinra seems unlikely and I really don't believe it. You don't believe it do you?"
"No," Genesis quickly replied.
"I like Tseng but sometimes he gets the most fucked up notions."
"Just doing his job."
"Bein' paranoid."
Genesis chuckled and sat up. "That's part of it I guess." He rubbed his right hand down Reno's chest and sighed. "I need to start dinner. You get to clean my ass print off the window."
"Heh, I'm gonna wipe your ass."
Genesis groaned and flipped to his feet. "You're insufferable," he said, pulling Reno upright.
"You're foxy when ya use big words," Reno winked. Genesis moaned but smiled. "Ya keep moaning and groaning and I'm gonna drag yer ass into the bedroom and ravish ya."
"You want my ass?" asked the STC, wiggling his backside. The redhead nodded. "There it is, have at it," he smirked, pointing at the window. The auburn dodged when the Turk tried to grab him and he trotted to the kitchen.
A few minutes later Genesis started pulling ingredients out to prepare dinner while Reno dug around until he found the window cleaner and a rag. Genesis shooed him out of the kitchen since he kept stealing bits of this and that as the STC prepared them. The redhead chuckled and suddenly couldn't remember what life was like without the SOLDIER. One thing was certain; he didn't care to remember.
Side Note:
Domo arigato gozaimasu: thank you very much (formal)
Hai: yes
-sama suffix: more formal version of -san. Used for those of a higher rank and to show respect and admiration.
Okonomiyki: A Japanese pizza (or pancake) like thing. It's battered, pan fried, and usually contains cabbage. Toppings are pretty much endless. It can be stuffed as well, usually with octopus, kimchi, pork, shirmp, or yam. 'Okonomi' means 'to one's liking'.