[ Genji has appreciated it greatly. It's not that he expected people to suddenly start avoiding him or anything, but the normalcy is appreciated. Throughout the week, he replies casually and sends a picture every once in a while. There hasn't been anything as... jungle like as before, but he still starts to grow little plants out of the crevices in his body if he isn't careful.
He accepts Cisco's invitation and heads over, dressed down casually like always, and heads over. The new cuff had been greatly appreciated but he can tell it's starting wear on him a bit... he feels tired and he knows the dragon spirit isn't happy with being subdued like this.
He smiles brightly when he enters. ]
Greeting my friend. [ He notices the various little plants and things. ] Time for some much needed testing, for sure.
[ It's good, to see Genji smiling, and that he doesn't seem ambushed or alarmed by Cisco's clear intentions. Maybe the invitation had been more transparent than he'd thought. Still, Cisco goes out of his way to make sure Genji's comfortable. He gestures to the extra chair, and then gets up himself, announcing: ]
I promise I'm not gonna keep you here too long, but! While you're here, I did make tea.
[ Not just the kind of tea Cisco will have at night when he's curling up with Eddie for a movie, either. This is fancy, loose-leaf tea that Cisco had bought at a store that only sold tea, and has made in a teapot, and everything. (It's not actually that fancy, and the truth is he'd probably scalded it a little, but it's the thought that counts, right?). He pours a little cup, for Genji, and one for himself. ]
I was thinking... if it's okay with you, I was thinking maybe we could talk a little bit more about how your powers showed up, and maybe take some readings while you're using 'em? Nothing invasive. Just, you know, heart-rate, some neural readings. The basics.
[ Cisco is a man of science and Genji has spent enough time around them to know when someone was curious. It isn't something he minds at all; he wants to understand just as much as him, if not more. ]
Time is of no concern, don't worry. Thank you for the tea.
[ Genji slides into the seat by one of the tables and accepts the cup, taking a sip right away since his mouth is pretty immune to high temperatures at this point. ]
I think that's a very good idea, and not anything I'm not used to either. [ He smiles a little. ] At least I'm in a much better place for it this time around, unlike a few years ago.
[ He put the cup down and crosses his arms, the one with the cuff sitting on top. ]
I have been trying to make a timeline of events myself ever since it started to become a problem. I had noticed little things that were happening but I hadn't really... addressed it yet. Until that happened. The only real physical symptom I can remember was that I had a very mild fever for a couple days a few weeks ago, but that in and of itself isn't terrible strange. My life support fights off things for me rather consistently.
[ Cisco is silent for a moment, tapping the pads of his fingers against the teacup (still too hot for him to drink). He hadn't been planning on laying things out quite so openly, but Genji had seen through his ruse of an invitation, apparently. When he mentions that he'd been in a bad place for the sort of readings and tests he'd had to live through a few years before, Cisco makes his mind up. ]
I know you're used to it and all that, but listen... if there's any tests or things you wanna skip, just tell me, alright? I don't want you feeling like you've gotta prove yourself. None of this is life or death, and I'm not gonna do anything you're not 100% down with.
[ Not the way Caitlin would have worded the same speech, but Cisco's not a doctor. He has no official qualifications for this sort of thing. Only a big heart, that he wears in full view on his sleeve. His facial expression is soft, and solicitous, as he goes on: ]
Genji, you've been so helpful to me. Teaching me to meditate, calming me down, listening to me - even when I make dumb old man references. I want you to know... I want you to know, it's okay if you need me to be the one who's helping, for a while. 'Cause the whole suddenly-getting-powers party is one I've been to before. I know it can be complicated.
[ He folds his arms as well, unconsciously mirroring Genji; what he hears doesn't surprise him much. He'd tried to ignore the little signs of his own powers at first, too. Easier to be in denial, to focus on other things... ]
The fever's interesting. Whatever triggered your powers might have also activated your immune system, or it was your body responding to some internal change. Do you mind if I get some baseline readings, before we do anything else? And take a blood sample?
[ When Genji thinks about it, nobody ever really asked back in Overwatch. Dr. Ziegler did but everybody else was rather standoffish and no nonsense. Genji didn't really think anything of it because he couldn't be bothered to care about anybody else back then.
It's funny, really. His little breakdown a few weeks ago seems almost silly now... of course there are people looking out for him here. He doesn't need to try to be strong on his own, nor does he need to pour too much of himself into helping other people.
His expression softens. ]
I greatly appreciate your concern Cisco. I don't foresee anything making me uncomfortable but if it does I will let you know. I am just as curious about this as you are.
[ He drops his hands to his knees. ]
You are very kind. I am quite fortunate to have you as a friend. For all I have assisted you, you have helped me as well. I haven't once thought I would have to deal with all of this alone.
[ Genji shifts and nods, then points to the coverings around where his ears used to be. ]
That sounds fine with me. I get audio readings from my life support from time to time, and I'm pretty sure they're stored for about a month at a time. You might be able to figure out a way to access it. [ A pause. ] If it still works, I suppose.
[ Then he huffs and looks at his very un-organic arms. ] Ah, a blood sample might be tricky. You may have to get through my legs.
Those readings would be helpful, if you have them. Even if the data looks weird or is absent, the details could tell me something. Just tell me how to transfer 'em over later and I will.
[ Cisco is already pulling his hair back into a loose ponytail and then pulling on sterile gloves when Genji mentions the difficulty of getting a blood sample. He'd forgotten that it might be a bit complicated. Fortunately, Genji's got a solution in mind, and Cisco gives a quick nod, rolling with it. ]
Right. Um. Yes. I can totally do that.
[ He might not have Caitlin's utter indifference to this sort of situation (he's pretty sure to get on that level, med school is required), but Cisco manages it with only a minor degree of awkwardness. He lets Genji bare his leg just enough that he can get a blood sample. It is, however, a rather startling reminder of just how much Genji had lost, when his brother nearly killed him. Sure, Cisco interacts with him regularly, is used to his prosthetic arms and the rest of it. But that familiarity can make him used to it, and cover over the sheer brutality of it.
Once he's drawn two vials of blood, Cisco pops a cute little purple bandaid onto the puncture, and gestures for Genji to relax. He walks one of them over to the cold storage as a backup, and then sets about using the other vial, drawing a few drops from it at a time and setting them on slides, putting those slides into four separate machines, all of which start chugging away. The results should be fairly quick, but not immediate. ]
Last time... you said you got some good news, right the whole vine sitch. D'you mind if I ask what kind of news?
[ Quickly, Cisco clarifies: ]
You don't gotta tell me if it's really personal, but... if you can be as specific as possible about how you felt. You know, was it excited-happy, or comfortable-happy, or thank-god-finally kind of relief happy? How intense was it? It's possible your powers are connected to levels of neurotransmitters in your system, like mine are, in which case, controlling your powers is gonna be at least half about controlling how you're feeling and reacting to stuff.
I'm pretty sure you can access it with Bluetooth. [ A playful pause. ] That exists in your time, right?
[ With an amused and faint little chuckle, he pulls up a part of his shorts to expose the still organic parts of it above the knee. It isn't something that Genji thinks about anymore, what parts of him are still flesh that is. Every piece of metal and circuit and silicone is him now, after all. (He also bites his cheek to stop himself from quipping 'At least by me a drink first' as Cisco takes his blood.) Genji doesn't even flinch and smiles at the purple band-aid.
There's a beep in his ear that alerts him that he's "lost blood" but he taps at the covering around it and ignores it. He watches Cisco, idly thinking that he and Dr. Ziegler would probably get along very well. ]
Hm?
[ He pulls himself out the nostalgia that hit him unexpectantly. Genji rubs under his nose and huffs almost a little shyly. ]
All that happened was that I had a very nice date with Shigeru. [ It's a very diplomatic answer. Cisco is free to read between the lines as much as he wants on that. ]
And I— I don't know. I was just very content, at ease. I must have had a very good dream or something because that seemed to be mostly when it started. From what little I have allowed myself to, well, 'test' things I believe it's attached to positive emotions. It's the only thing that seems to make sense.
[ Cisco might not quite be reading between the lines, but he's definitely looking at that gap between the lines and wondering quite a bit. 'A very nice date' could mean a lot of things. But, as far as he's aware, there's no medical or scientific reason why he needs to push for details. He at least has a vague idea of which direction to move in. ]
Well, can I just say? Super glad to hear about the date, and now I'm doubly jealous about your powers.
[ He said he'd been feeling comfortable, contented and at ease. That makes Cisco think that, for Genji, adrenaline probably isn't involved. Probably not dopamine, either, though it could be associated with positive emotions the same as negative ones.
Cisco gestures towards one of the little plants sitting in a small plastic pot on the table, near to Genji: a tiny spider plant, its leaves spotted with green and white. ]
You said you tested a little... mind if I hook you up to a couple sensors and you try making this baby grow, or move, or I don't know, do a mambo?
[ When Genji gives him permission, Cisco starts attaching a few sensors to his forehead and temple, careful to make sure each ones is getting readings before he moves on to the next. And, just to help with his emotional state (and because he's curious) CIsco says: ]
It is far more irritating than it seems. Trying to stop being in a good mood is quite difficult.
[ Genji nods at the question and looks at the plant. ]
Of course. Any of those could happen... I suppose as long as it doesn't start talking. [ A pause. ] Which would be interesting but a bit— much to deal with.
[ He lets Cisco place the sensors on him and takes off the power dampening cuff when he's finished. Genji looks at the plant and reaches a hand up to gently brush against the plant... sometimes contact helps.
But he looks back at his friend when he asks the question, color flooding his cheeks at the sudden question. Genji audibly sets his jaw with a metallic sounding click. ]
You know what the recent little 'event' in the Quarantine was. [ He looks back at the plant and it's leaves seem to perk up with a sudden sheen of health before starting to grow ever so slowly. ] You can put two and two together.
Naw, come on. There's not gonna be any need for that. Once you've got some practice controlling how you direct that energy, there won't be any need to rain on the parade.
[ Cisco says it with his voice warm and coaxing, more optimistic than he has scientific evidence to back up. But he doesn't want Genji's relationship to his powers soured from the start, so he's going to make sure he doesn't let a negative mindset like that take hold too deeply. ]
It's not about stopping the emotions, it's figuring out how to feel them without control of your powers slipping away from you. That's what you taught me.
[ His attention is so focused on the movements of the plants - and the readouts on the small monitors that are showing Genji's physiological responses - that he almost misses the implication. ]
Mhm...
[ Then, belatedly, it sinks in. ]
Oh! Oh, yeah... that's. Um. Informative, thanks.
[ A little embarrassing for the both of them to talk about, certainly, but potentially relevant to figuring out these powers. Cisco jots down a quick note, his own face a little warm. ]
Can you focus for me on the plant - see if you can make it stay perfectly still?
[ And Cisco goes quiet, then, stops moving, wanting to provide as little distraction as he can. ]
[ Genji hopes that one day Cisco can meet Zenyatta, because for a moment he gets very nostalgic. He knows the two would get along quite well, his master always eager to speak with the curious and inventive. He let's out a faint little self deprecating chuckle. ]
You are right, my friend. Sometimes I do not take my own advice.
[ And although he was sheepish a moment ago, the color fades from his cheekbones and he can't help feeling amused. Another laugh bursts out of him, a crinkle forming at the corner of his eyes for the first time in a few weeks. ]
The things we must do for science, right? Don't worry, I'm not offended. But you'll understand if I don't go into details for everyone's sake.
[ Genji's delight made the plant seem to flourish a moment, leaves growing more. But at Cisco's request he nods and takes in a deep breath.
He's found if he tries to be calm, think of stillness and the chill of the night air in Nepal it can... calm it. After a moment, the little plant stops growing and shimmering under Genji's touch.
A small sprig of a plant has popped up in the crevices of his hand however. ]
[ Cisco isn't a prude - far from it - but he looks up to Genji. He is not just a friend, but a mentor as well, and definitely not someone whose sex life Cisco wants to know anything about.
He watches with interest as Genji stalls the growth of the little seedling, but then a ping from his computer alerts him to a change. Seconds later he notices that sprig and sucks in a short breath, brow furrowing. But he keeps his voice calm as he says: ]
You've got a bit of an intruder on your hand there. See if you can... pull the energy back from it, go in reverse, and put that energy into.... that plant.
[ Cisco points to a different one of the little potted plants. It might be asking too much, too early, but it will be useful if only for the readings of what's happening in Genji's body while he's trying to direct his powers. ]
[ Genji is making a face, a look of slightly perplexed pensiveness. ]
This has happened a number of times. Thankfully not to the point I'd have to disarticulate and clean all of my joints, but it's still curious.
[ At Cisco's suggestion, Genji's expression perks up. ]
I hadn't thought of attempting that. [ He looks serious again, although there's an air of playfulness to it. Genji loves a challenge. ]
I need to stop thinking of this as a new skill and instead perhaps just similar to ones I already have. I already understand the concept of redirecting energy from summoning the dragon spirit.
[ He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, something deep within his chest whirring for a moment. The little sprig seems to twitch and it gets... shorter, but it does not entirely vanish.
Genji exhales. ]
I suppose it would be too easy for it to work the first time.
[ And there's something Cisco had never quite thought of - does Genji have to occasionally disarticulate and clean his joints, just as a part of regular self-maintenance? Surely he would need to, every now and then? But, as unfamiliar as it sounds at first, is it really all that different from, say, going to a dentist for a cleaning? All bodies needed to be maintained, one way or another.
He watches as Genji concentrates, sees that sprig reduce in size. It doesn't entirely vanish, but Genji definitely shrank it. ]
Hell, I call that 'working'. Might not be gone, but now you know you can get there, with practice. You've taken the first step. That's the hardest bit, trust me. Now you've got a feeling for that specific energy.
[ Cisco is trying to teach not by giving specific instructions - because how could he, not having the same powers Genji has? Rather, he's trying to help the way he'd always seen Wells doing when training Barry. Giving suggestions, letting Genji try stuff and figure out on his own what he needs to do and think in order to master his powers. ]
Does it feel any different? Than the energy you channel for the dragon spirit?
[ He had to do it more often when he was traveling and did not have proper access to medical and mechanical care. It's still something he does at least once a month whether he needs it or not.
But what Cisco says is helpful guidance, and appreciated. Genji rubs at an eye with the heel of his palm, a little tired suddenly. ]
Indeed, the first step is always the hardest.
[ He leans back and pulls away from the plant, the shine of it diminishing now that Genji's hand isn't close to it. ]
It feels like a different 'kind,' if that makes sense. The difference between creation and power. It's hard to describe because it's something that's always been a part of me, like breathing.
[ He can't help being a little jealous of that; part of the reason why his own powers have given him so much trouble was that they didn't start off feeling natural to him. They were just there, one day, unexplained, unwieldy, uncooperative. ]
Do you... for the readings, could you do something with the dragon spirit. So I can see if any of the levels change? And even if they don't, it might help solidify the difference between the two. How they feel compared to one another.
[ Cisco has only seen Genji do this in a combat situation, in that dream. Had that been accurate to the reality? He's a little bit curious if the strange beauty of it had been a byproduct of the dream, or if it really does look like that...
(He also thinks it might be a good idea, after Genji has been suppressing his powers, and dampening his connection to the dragon spirit, for him to flex those proverbial muscles a little.) ]
Is it safe for you to call on it? When you're not fighting, I mean?
Ah, yes, of course. [ He sits up straighter and rolls his neck, a whir coming from one of his cervical joints. ] That is a good idea. And it is completely safe, do not worry.
[ A look crosses his face that's a little hard to decipher. ]
You know, I never let Overwatch attempt to study this. For all the good I knew they were at least intending to do... [ He tilts his head. ] Even in the disarray I was in at the time, I knew an international organization such as that should not have any data on this power my family holds. [ Then he looks very serious for a second. ] Someone I worked with, I can only imagine the things she would try to do.
[ But he shakes his head, expression getting casual again. ] I talk too much. What I mean to say is, I trust you Cisco.
[ He straightenss up again and closes his eyes. After a moment, flecks of green light start to gather around him and congregate around his back. The vents on his shoulders start puffing out more steam, and the face of a dragon seems to overlap his own after a moment.
Genji opens his glowing green eyes, seeming otherworldly now. ]
Listen, as a proud and certified member of the talks-too-much team, you definitely don't, dude.
[ There is something soft around the edges of his smile, as he turns to check that the various machines are hooked up and taking readings properly. It means the world, that Genji trusts him with this. After all, being skeptical of letting Overwatch know too much about this power was a good call, apparently. And Cisco could see how Genji might think letting any scientist know about it would be too dangerous. So the fact that Genji is letting him see this, study this, even a little...
Cisco watches, rapt but silent and unmoving, as the spectral face of a dragon overlaps Genji's just for an instant. Seeing Genji opening his eyes to reveal a solid green glow is a little unsettling, at first. It reminds Cisco, unpleasantly, of the Reverse Flash. But he quickly shoves that thought aside; focuses instead on the richness of the green, the way the foggy light seems to shift constantly, never still. ]
I don't know if it's weird to say, but... it's really beautiful.
[ Which Genji probably knows, of course. This is a part of him - something passed down in his family, something he'd grown up being aware of, and probably proud of. ]
[ He chuckles a little, it not entirely sounding 'right' anymore. Not threatening or powerful, just not entirely 100% Genji anymore. This was a meditative state that had been drilled into him since his dragon manifested; it was as easy as breathing now. ]
That eases my mind. Sometimes I feel like I have too many words pent up from the past decade.
[ He rolls a shoulder and exhales through his nose, the green light and energy making it look not unlike a dragon huffing steam. Genji smiles at his compliment, all toothy. Are his teeth pointer? Probably just an illusion of the light. ]
Thank you. It's not a sight most people get to see and talk about it later.
[ Cisco says it simply, without explanation; there had been a period in his life where he'd tried to curtail his own chattiness. It had been just one of the many things he did to try to be the son he thought his parents wanted. He'd tried not to talk so much, had dressed how they wanted, had pretended to care about the things they wanted him to. In the end, it hadn't changed anything; that had been right before he'd given up trying to please his family, entirely. After that, he'd swung in the opposite direction. ]
You never gotta worry about talking too much to me. The sky's the limit.
[ Then Cisco himself goes silent, watching the shifting energy. He isn't looking at the monitors; he can examine the readings later on. For now, he just wants to watch this, to see Genji do his thing up close. When Genji says few have seen it and lived, Cisco huffs a small laugh. It's the sort of comment that might have elicited a little thrill of fear, if someone else had said it. But Cisco trusts Genji, knows that it's the truth, rather than any kind of threat. ]
Could you always... did someone have to teach you to do this?
I will keep that in mind then. I am glad to have found such a kindred spirit.
[ It's said lightly, but he genuinely means it. Cisco is one of the few people he has met in his life that he has felt a near instant connection with. Genji is quite glad to consider him a friend.
He rolls a shoulder. ]
There is some sort of innate understanding, but there is training involved. It usually starts around twelve years of age.
[ Genji closes his eyes and exhales, and the green glow slowly vanishes like steam dissipating in the air. Any longer and he would start to get exhausted, or wear down on his systems.
He wipes at his forehead with the collar of his shirt. ]
I doubt it's a coincidence it happens around the time puberty starts, mind you. [ He explains a little more about what he knows of the dragons, how he was trained and how they manifest. The legends their father would tell them, and how he wonders now if those stories were meant to control more than to inspire.
'Real life is not like the stories our father told us' his brother said. He's not wrong. But Genji takes a different meaning from them now. ]
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no subject
He accepts Cisco's invitation and heads over, dressed down casually like always, and heads over. The new cuff had been greatly appreciated but he can tell it's starting wear on him a bit... he feels tired and he knows the dragon spirit isn't happy with being subdued like this.
He smiles brightly when he enters. ]
Greeting my friend. [ He notices the various little plants and things. ] Time for some much needed testing, for sure.
no subject
[ It's good, to see Genji smiling, and that he doesn't seem ambushed or alarmed by Cisco's clear intentions. Maybe the invitation had been more transparent than he'd thought. Still, Cisco goes out of his way to make sure Genji's comfortable. He gestures to the extra chair, and then gets up himself, announcing: ]
I promise I'm not gonna keep you here too long, but! While you're here, I did make tea.
[ Not just the kind of tea Cisco will have at night when he's curling up with Eddie for a movie, either. This is fancy, loose-leaf tea that Cisco had bought at a store that only sold tea, and has made in a teapot, and everything. (It's not actually that fancy, and the truth is he'd probably scalded it a little, but it's the thought that counts, right?). He pours a little cup, for Genji, and one for himself. ]
I was thinking... if it's okay with you, I was thinking maybe we could talk a little bit more about how your powers showed up, and maybe take some readings while you're using 'em? Nothing invasive. Just, you know, heart-rate, some neural readings. The basics.
no subject
Time is of no concern, don't worry. Thank you for the tea.
[ Genji slides into the seat by one of the tables and accepts the cup, taking a sip right away since his mouth is pretty immune to high temperatures at this point. ]
I think that's a very good idea, and not anything I'm not used to either. [ He smiles a little. ] At least I'm in a much better place for it this time around, unlike a few years ago.
[ He put the cup down and crosses his arms, the one with the cuff sitting on top. ]
I have been trying to make a timeline of events myself ever since it started to become a problem. I had noticed little things that were happening but I hadn't really... addressed it yet. Until that happened. The only real physical symptom I can remember was that I had a very mild fever for a couple days a few weeks ago, but that in and of itself isn't terrible strange. My life support fights off things for me rather consistently.
no subject
I know you're used to it and all that, but listen... if there's any tests or things you wanna skip, just tell me, alright? I don't want you feeling like you've gotta prove yourself. None of this is life or death, and I'm not gonna do anything you're not 100% down with.
[ Not the way Caitlin would have worded the same speech, but Cisco's not a doctor. He has no official qualifications for this sort of thing. Only a big heart, that he wears in full view on his sleeve. His facial expression is soft, and solicitous, as he goes on: ]
Genji, you've been so helpful to me. Teaching me to meditate, calming me down, listening to me - even when I make dumb old man references. I want you to know... I want you to know, it's okay if you need me to be the one who's helping, for a while. 'Cause the whole suddenly-getting-powers party is one I've been to before. I know it can be complicated.
[ He folds his arms as well, unconsciously mirroring Genji; what he hears doesn't surprise him much. He'd tried to ignore the little signs of his own powers at first, too. Easier to be in denial, to focus on other things... ]
The fever's interesting. Whatever triggered your powers might have also activated your immune system, or it was your body responding to some internal change. Do you mind if I get some baseline readings, before we do anything else? And take a blood sample?
no subject
It's funny, really. His little breakdown a few weeks ago seems almost silly now... of course there are people looking out for him here. He doesn't need to try to be strong on his own, nor does he need to pour too much of himself into helping other people.
His expression softens. ]
I greatly appreciate your concern Cisco. I don't foresee anything making me uncomfortable but if it does I will let you know. I am just as curious about this as you are.
[ He drops his hands to his knees. ]
You are very kind. I am quite fortunate to have you as a friend. For all I have assisted you, you have helped me as well. I haven't once thought I would have to deal with all of this alone.
[ Genji shifts and nods, then points to the coverings around where his ears used to be. ]
That sounds fine with me. I get audio readings from my life support from time to time, and I'm pretty sure they're stored for about a month at a time. You might be able to figure out a way to access it. [ A pause. ] If it still works, I suppose.
[ Then he huffs and looks at his very un-organic arms. ] Ah, a blood sample might be tricky. You may have to get through my legs.
[ At least he's wearing shorts... ]
no subject
[ Cisco is already pulling his hair back into a loose ponytail and then pulling on sterile gloves when Genji mentions the difficulty of getting a blood sample. He'd forgotten that it might be a bit complicated. Fortunately, Genji's got a solution in mind, and Cisco gives a quick nod, rolling with it. ]
Right. Um. Yes. I can totally do that.
[ He might not have Caitlin's utter indifference to this sort of situation (he's pretty sure to get on that level, med school is required), but Cisco manages it with only a minor degree of awkwardness. He lets Genji bare his leg just enough that he can get a blood sample. It is, however, a rather startling reminder of just how much Genji had lost, when his brother nearly killed him. Sure, Cisco interacts with him regularly, is used to his prosthetic arms and the rest of it. But that familiarity can make him used to it, and cover over the sheer brutality of it.
Once he's drawn two vials of blood, Cisco pops a cute little purple bandaid onto the puncture, and gestures for Genji to relax. He walks one of them over to the cold storage as a backup, and then sets about using the other vial, drawing a few drops from it at a time and setting them on slides, putting those slides into four separate machines, all of which start chugging away. The results should be fairly quick, but not immediate. ]
Last time... you said you got some good news, right the whole vine sitch. D'you mind if I ask what kind of news?
[ Quickly, Cisco clarifies: ]
You don't gotta tell me if it's really personal, but... if you can be as specific as possible about how you felt. You know, was it excited-happy, or comfortable-happy, or thank-god-finally kind of relief happy? How intense was it? It's possible your powers are connected to levels of neurotransmitters in your system, like mine are, in which case, controlling your powers is gonna be at least half about controlling how you're feeling and reacting to stuff.
no subject
[ With an amused and faint little chuckle, he pulls up a part of his shorts to expose the still organic parts of it above the knee. It isn't something that Genji thinks about anymore, what parts of him are still flesh that is. Every piece of metal and circuit and silicone is him now, after all. (He also bites his cheek to stop himself from quipping 'At least by me a drink first' as Cisco takes his blood.) Genji doesn't even flinch and smiles at the purple band-aid.
There's a beep in his ear that alerts him that he's "lost blood" but he taps at the covering around it and ignores it. He watches Cisco, idly thinking that he and Dr. Ziegler would probably get along very well. ]
Hm?
[ He pulls himself out the nostalgia that hit him unexpectantly. Genji rubs under his nose and huffs almost a little shyly. ]
All that happened was that I had a very nice date with Shigeru. [ It's a very diplomatic answer. Cisco is free to read between the lines as much as he wants on that. ]
And I— I don't know. I was just very content, at ease. I must have had a very good dream or something because that seemed to be mostly when it started. From what little I have allowed myself to, well, 'test' things I believe it's attached to positive emotions. It's the only thing that seems to make sense.
no subject
Well, can I just say? Super glad to hear about the date, and now I'm doubly jealous about your powers.
[ He said he'd been feeling comfortable, contented and at ease. That makes Cisco think that, for Genji, adrenaline probably isn't involved. Probably not dopamine, either, though it could be associated with positive emotions the same as negative ones.
Cisco gestures towards one of the little plants sitting in a small plastic pot on the table, near to Genji: a tiny spider plant, its leaves spotted with green and white. ]
You said you tested a little... mind if I hook you up to a couple sensors and you try making this baby grow, or move, or I don't know, do a mambo?
[ When Genji gives him permission, Cisco starts attaching a few sensors to his forehead and temple, careful to make sure each ones is getting readings before he moves on to the next. And, just to help with his emotional state (and because he's curious) CIsco says: ]
So tell me a little about this date?
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It is far more irritating than it seems. Trying to stop being in a good mood is quite difficult.
[ Genji nods at the question and looks at the plant. ]
Of course. Any of those could happen... I suppose as long as it doesn't start talking. [ A pause. ] Which would be interesting but a bit— much to deal with.
[ He lets Cisco place the sensors on him and takes off the power dampening cuff when he's finished. Genji looks at the plant and reaches a hand up to gently brush against the plant... sometimes contact helps.
But he looks back at his friend when he asks the question, color flooding his cheeks at the sudden question. Genji audibly sets his jaw with a metallic sounding click. ]
You know what the recent little 'event' in the Quarantine was. [ He looks back at the plant and it's leaves seem to perk up with a sudden sheen of health before starting to grow ever so slowly. ] You can put two and two together.
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[ Cisco says it with his voice warm and coaxing, more optimistic than he has scientific evidence to back up. But he doesn't want Genji's relationship to his powers soured from the start, so he's going to make sure he doesn't let a negative mindset like that take hold too deeply. ]
It's not about stopping the emotions, it's figuring out how to feel them without control of your powers slipping away from you. That's what you taught me.
[ His attention is so focused on the movements of the plants - and the readouts on the small monitors that are showing Genji's physiological responses - that he almost misses the implication. ]
Mhm...
[ Then, belatedly, it sinks in. ]
Oh! Oh, yeah... that's. Um. Informative, thanks.
[ A little embarrassing for the both of them to talk about, certainly, but potentially relevant to figuring out these powers. Cisco jots down a quick note, his own face a little warm. ]
Can you focus for me on the plant - see if you can make it stay perfectly still?
[ And Cisco goes quiet, then, stops moving, wanting to provide as little distraction as he can. ]
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You are right, my friend. Sometimes I do not take my own advice.
[ And although he was sheepish a moment ago, the color fades from his cheekbones and he can't help feeling amused. Another laugh bursts out of him, a crinkle forming at the corner of his eyes for the first time in a few weeks. ]
The things we must do for science, right? Don't worry, I'm not offended. But you'll understand if I don't go into details for everyone's sake.
[ Genji's delight made the plant seem to flourish a moment, leaves growing more. But at Cisco's request he nods and takes in a deep breath.
He's found if he tries to be calm, think of stillness and the chill of the night air in Nepal it can... calm it. After a moment, the little plant stops growing and shimmering under Genji's touch.
A small sprig of a plant has popped up in the crevices of his hand however. ]
whoops hit enter too soon
[ Cisco isn't a prude - far from it - but he looks up to Genji. He is not just a friend, but a mentor as well, and definitely not someone whose sex life Cisco wants to know anything about.
He watches with interest as Genji stalls the growth of the little seedling, but then a ping from his computer alerts him to a change. Seconds later he notices that sprig and sucks in a short breath, brow furrowing. But he keeps his voice calm as he says: ]
You've got a bit of an intruder on your hand there. See if you can... pull the energy back from it, go in reverse, and put that energy into.... that plant.
[ Cisco points to a different one of the little potted plants. It might be asking too much, too early, but it will be useful if only for the readings of what's happening in Genji's body while he's trying to direct his powers. ]
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This has happened a number of times. Thankfully not to the point I'd have to disarticulate and clean all of my joints, but it's still curious.
[ At Cisco's suggestion, Genji's expression perks up. ]
I hadn't thought of attempting that. [ He looks serious again, although there's an air of playfulness to it. Genji loves a challenge. ]
I need to stop thinking of this as a new skill and instead perhaps just similar to ones I already have. I already understand the concept of redirecting energy from summoning the dragon spirit.
[ He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, something deep within his chest whirring for a moment. The little sprig seems to twitch and it gets... shorter, but it does not entirely vanish.
Genji exhales. ]
I suppose it would be too easy for it to work the first time.
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He watches as Genji concentrates, sees that sprig reduce in size. It doesn't entirely vanish, but Genji definitely shrank it. ]
Hell, I call that 'working'. Might not be gone, but now you know you can get there, with practice. You've taken the first step. That's the hardest bit, trust me. Now you've got a feeling for that specific energy.
[ Cisco is trying to teach not by giving specific instructions - because how could he, not having the same powers Genji has? Rather, he's trying to help the way he'd always seen Wells doing when training Barry. Giving suggestions, letting Genji try stuff and figure out on his own what he needs to do and think in order to master his powers. ]
Does it feel any different? Than the energy you channel for the dragon spirit?
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But what Cisco says is helpful guidance, and appreciated. Genji rubs at an eye with the heel of his palm, a little tired suddenly. ]
Indeed, the first step is always the hardest.
[ He leans back and pulls away from the plant, the shine of it diminishing now that Genji's hand isn't close to it. ]
It feels like a different 'kind,' if that makes sense. The difference between creation and power. It's hard to describe because it's something that's always been a part of me, like breathing.
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Do you... for the readings, could you do something with the dragon spirit. So I can see if any of the levels change? And even if they don't, it might help solidify the difference between the two. How they feel compared to one another.
[ Cisco has only seen Genji do this in a combat situation, in that dream. Had that been accurate to the reality? He's a little bit curious if the strange beauty of it had been a byproduct of the dream, or if it really does look like that...
(He also thinks it might be a good idea, after Genji has been suppressing his powers, and dampening his connection to the dragon spirit, for him to flex those proverbial muscles a little.) ]
Is it safe for you to call on it? When you're not fighting, I mean?
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[ A look crosses his face that's a little hard to decipher. ]
You know, I never let Overwatch attempt to study this. For all the good I knew they were at least intending to do... [ He tilts his head. ] Even in the disarray I was in at the time, I knew an international organization such as that should not have any data on this power my family holds. [ Then he looks very serious for a second. ] Someone I worked with, I can only imagine the things she would try to do.
[ But he shakes his head, expression getting casual again. ] I talk too much. What I mean to say is, I trust you Cisco.
[ He straightenss up again and closes his eyes. After a moment, flecks of green light start to gather around him and congregate around his back. The vents on his shoulders start puffing out more steam, and the face of a dragon seems to overlap his own after a moment.
Genji opens his glowing green eyes, seeming otherworldly now. ]
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[ There is something soft around the edges of his smile, as he turns to check that the various machines are hooked up and taking readings properly. It means the world, that Genji trusts him with this. After all, being skeptical of letting Overwatch know too much about this power was a good call, apparently. And Cisco could see how Genji might think letting any scientist know about it would be too dangerous. So the fact that Genji is letting him see this, study this, even a little...
Cisco watches, rapt but silent and unmoving, as the spectral face of a dragon overlaps Genji's just for an instant. Seeing Genji opening his eyes to reveal a solid green glow is a little unsettling, at first. It reminds Cisco, unpleasantly, of the Reverse Flash. But he quickly shoves that thought aside; focuses instead on the richness of the green, the way the foggy light seems to shift constantly, never still. ]
I don't know if it's weird to say, but... it's really beautiful.
[ Which Genji probably knows, of course. This is a part of him - something passed down in his family, something he'd grown up being aware of, and probably proud of. ]
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That eases my mind. Sometimes I feel like I have too many words pent up from the past decade.
[ He rolls a shoulder and exhales through his nose, the green light and energy making it look not unlike a dragon huffing steam. Genji smiles at his compliment, all toothy. Are his teeth pointer? Probably just an illusion of the light. ]
Thank you. It's not a sight most people get to see and talk about it later.
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[ Cisco says it simply, without explanation; there had been a period in his life where he'd tried to curtail his own chattiness. It had been just one of the many things he did to try to be the son he thought his parents wanted. He'd tried not to talk so much, had dressed how they wanted, had pretended to care about the things they wanted him to. In the end, it hadn't changed anything; that had been right before he'd given up trying to please his family, entirely. After that, he'd swung in the opposite direction. ]
You never gotta worry about talking too much to me. The sky's the limit.
[ Then Cisco himself goes silent, watching the shifting energy. He isn't looking at the monitors; he can examine the readings later on. For now, he just wants to watch this, to see Genji do his thing up close. When Genji says few have seen it and lived, Cisco huffs a small laugh. It's the sort of comment that might have elicited a little thrill of fear, if someone else had said it. But Cisco trusts Genji, knows that it's the truth, rather than any kind of threat. ]
Could you always... did someone have to teach you to do this?
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I will keep that in mind then. I am glad to have found such a kindred spirit.
[ It's said lightly, but he genuinely means it. Cisco is one of the few people he has met in his life that he has felt a near instant connection with. Genji is quite glad to consider him a friend.
He rolls a shoulder. ]
There is some sort of innate understanding, but there is training involved. It usually starts around twelve years of age.
[ Genji closes his eyes and exhales, and the green glow slowly vanishes like steam dissipating in the air. Any longer and he would start to get exhausted, or wear down on his systems.
He wipes at his forehead with the collar of his shirt. ]
I doubt it's a coincidence it happens around the time puberty starts, mind you. [ He explains a little more about what he knows of the dragons, how he was trained and how they manifest. The legends their father would tell them, and how he wonders now if those stories were meant to control more than to inspire.
'Real life is not like the stories our father told us' his brother said. He's not wrong. But Genji takes a different meaning from them now. ]