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Chapter Text

As she drifted into consciousness she felt the faint smell of ashes. She jolted out of her bed hitting her head on to the metal bar that held the bunk bed above her's. The scent was now gone but she could swear that something was burning in the proximity.

'' What the hell Cloud?'' a high-pitched voice screamed at her from above hitting the air with a clenched fist.

''Sorry Iul... I thought something was burning... couldn't you smell it?''

''Na man! And I thought that sharin' the room with a girl would be fun!'' he made himself comfortable again and a few moments later she could hear light snores.

It wasn't the first time she felt weird things that the other cadets couldn't. She thought it was the mountain sense or the Goddess guiding her but it was a stretch. At least she didn't wake anyone else up though they were used by now with her strange behavior. She wouldn't fall asleep again even if she wanted to. Carefully she changed into a tracksuit and left for a late-night run.

The sky was visible tonight, a silver glimmer shining upon the metal city of Midgar. Somehow, under all that machinery and pollution Cloud could still see the beauty behind the scenery. Even if she missed the cold of the mountains slowly sneaking under her clothes, making her shiver while on the hunt, the woman felt better as a cadet. It has been her dream to enroll as a SOLIDER since she saw Sephiroth's first appearance as the Wutai Slayer. But her dream started crumbling when she set foot on the gray platform alongside the others. In the beginning, there were other girls but the advances made by creepy men on the streets and the ''teachers'' -if they can even be called that- that hated training women for some reason made them leave without a glance back.

On the third lap of the training ground, she felt a change in the air. It made her senses go wild but there was something wrong. The smell of burning hair reached her again but this time stronger. Running towards the source she found two men dressed up in black suits watching a large fire. It wasn't unusual until she noticed what was burning. A weird creature was lying on the ground face-first that looked oddly similar to a human. Only that it had wings and scales on the sides of the torso.
As she got close enough to hear their voices she leaned on the wall of a tall business building to hide in the evergrowing shadows. The coldness of the surface was a blessed discomfort that helped with controlling her breath. 'If they hear you, you are dead' she reminded herself. Just like in the mountains she was on the hunt only that this time she was looking for answers to unknown questions.

''Aghh!! I'm sick and tired of chasing after these lunatics all night!'' peering over the draining pipe she saw a man with bright red colored hair, hitting random objects while another bald one was staring at the flames with disgust visible through his sunglasses.

''I have to admit that the smell makes even me sick..''

''How come we have to be here on the streets, in the cold, while Tseng is chilling with the Boss?'' with another dramatic sigh he leaned closer to the body that was now almost ashes.
They looked awfully familiar but the blonde could not remember from where. Cold sweat was running down her forehead as panic started crawling into her mind. If those things were hunted why not leave that job to the cadets? They usually took care of most of the jobs from the slums. Why were these any different?

''Again why are we doing this? I had planed a rather interesting meetin' for tonight. And now she won't even answer my calls, yo! This is bullshit!''

''It's done.'' said the bald man as he rose on his feet once more. The fire was gone and where the creature once stood there was a pile of ashes that spread an awful smell of death.

''Finally! I can't wait to get over this hunt! Seriously we need more newbies to take care of this kind of stuff. Good thing the selection is today! Maybe we're gonna get some girls to join our ranks. Cissnei is ignoring me again.''

The two men started walking towards the young cadet at a slow pace making her anxiety rise through the roof. Counting the steps she took a deep breath before stopping breathing or making even the slightest moves. They were dangerous, and if they would have found a blonde listening to their conversation she would most likely end up as the creature. They passed her without looking back but Cloud wouldn't make a move until they disappeared into the polluted mist.

She let out a sigh of relief and slid down on the wall looking at the sky. It was quiet in the crowded city for what seemed like an eternity. Her train of thoughts was interrupted by the pale blue that grew on the blackness of the night. She should go back but her legs were trembling in fear thinking about those men's words. They were not SOLIDER that's for sure and judging by the formal attire they were most likely Turks. But why were they hunting down creatures in the dead of the night? Wasn't that the Thirds' problem? The air suddenly felt heavy as she got closer to the ashes. Why burn it in the first place? Nobody does this unless... unless they want to keep a low profile. It was to be expected by the Turks but it was odd. A glimmer of light got her attention. One of the scales escaped the fire. It had a reddish pigment and an oval shape. Placing it in her pocket she rushed towards the dorms for the morning call, pushing aside the events the had just occurred.

''And there she goes just like a scared rabbit!'' the red-head slid a hand through his hair yawning at the security footage.

''Tseng will pick our brains out for allowing that girl to listen to us, Reno!'' the bald man massaged the bridge of his nose before placing his glasses back on. They were quite surprised after they checked the footage to see that they have been spied on.

''Or he will kill her. Relax Rude, we didn't say anything important anyway. Just some Turks hunting some slum monster.'' he grinned at the monitor as the silhouette of the woman became clearer. A rather fit blonde in tracksuit managed to slip right through their fingers. Most impressive actually. ''And if she spills the beans nobody would believe her. Serves them right for putting us under Hojo.'' Most of his jobs from the past few weeks were lab assisting and monster hunting. The scientist let loose some of his failed experiments forgetting that his research was private. He said it was a test for the specimens but the redhead knew that he simply got bored of trying to stabilize failed attempts.

''She was probably drunk, I don't think she will remember anything and if she does she'd be too scared to talk about it'' he sipped from his coffee and made his way to the door from the Turk headquarters. ''Let's just call in the night. We have examinations early today!'' He didn't wait to see if Reno followed him.

After returning into the dorms she found the showers empty as most of the others were just waking up. The warm water was a blessing in there thanks to the shared bathrooms and most of the time you didn't even have soap. But it was never a problem for her as she would wake up earlier to train, even in winter.
She held the golden locks in place with a hair tie and her miracle wooden sticks. It was a Wutaian fashion trend and despite the war, most citizens had wutaian furniture. A rare sight was her reflection as she never paid attention to her looks most of the time. Presentable and professional that was her aim, considering she was the only female left in the program she didn't want any attention from the guys. From the dirty mirror, a young woman with deep blue eyes was staring at herself. Rebellious strands of blonde hair were framing her porcelain-like skin. Thick black lashes were brushing against her barely visible freckles. Back home her mother used to tell her that her face was made out of angles, unlike most people where they would have curves. She understood now why as her cheekbones were more prominent than they used to be, her chin being slimmer. She left for the gym where they had their examination before breakfast.

Gray walls held a tall roof. The other squadron was already there alongside their instructor. First, as always she took her place in the line waiting. She couldn't get the events of last night to leave her head, the smell still lingering around her like a cloak covering her senses. It was similar to something, but the young cadet couldn't recall from where. She patted the pocket containing the small scale just to make sure it was still there, that she hasn't lost it. A gentle elbow hit in her ribs brought her back to reality, noticing just now the rest of the cadets lined up after her.

''Hey Clo, still looking for that fire?'' Iul's voice whispered so that the Second Class wouldn't hear him. ''By the way, where have you been? I looked all over the dorms this morning and no sign of you!'' he said with a playful smile.

They were quick to become friends in the first days, being the most unusual in the facility, and being unusual there was something. Aside from being a woman, Cloud had already built muscle in the mountains and had rather animalistic instincts when it came to fighting. Brute force was never her thing, unlike the other girls who tried to keep up with the males. They miserably failed, but she kept moving faster than her opponents.

As for Iul, his appearance drove people away as he was small in stature with raven hair and red eyes. His mouth also didn't help as he would usually pick a fight with someone just because he couldn't shut up to save his life. So Cloud had to save his.

''A night run.''

The Second Class gave them the details of today's training session. Combat training and in pairs of two randomly drawn from a jar not far away from them. She waited patiently for her name to be called, calming her nerves. They never said anything about an exam today but those Turks last night mentioned something. The uneasy feeling from earlier was still present as if someone was watching her.

''That's me! Gotta go Clo. I can't believe I'm paired with Tray...'' he said with annoyance in his voice.

''Cloudia Strife and Liorn Prayder''

That name again, she really couldn't stand it and never understood her mother's decision on naming her that. Too girly or maybe just stupid. At least nobody called her that unless they were teasing or mocking her, mostly the latter. Picking up the wooden staff she took the guarding position waiting for her sparring partner. A tall muscly red-head was walking towards her with no regard or respect in his posture, a slightly deranged grin on his tanned face. Holding the staff as if it was a toy, he took his place opposite of her in the designated circle. A loud whistle was heard from the side of the arena, marking the beginning of the exercise.

Her ice-blue eyes watched his moves when he charged full speed at her going for a direct hit in the stomach, but she moved out of the way with ease. The same way it went for the second and third attack until she noticed his unbothered expression. Blood rushed in her face. He was taking her lightly! Like a signal he gave her a superior look and hit her on the left side of the body, only to meet the wood of the staff. She was pissed now. Instead of learning his movements, she moved with him, letting him guide as she hit him in the back of his legs, back, and head. And he couldn't block any of them. But it wasn't enough, so she put a little distance between them then started swinging her staff violently. Rushing towards him instead of full force charge, she stuck the staff in the ground lifting herself over him to kick the back of his head, rendering him unconscious.

She ignored her messy hair that was sticking to her neck and forehead, the sore muscles, but she could not ignore the burning eyes that were laid on her. Looking up, to the roof she couldn't distinguish anything from the darkness. The instructor got close, noting something on the paper then shoving her into the empty hallway. Others have won but she saw her good friend still fighting. The young men watched her as she went past them leaning on a wall and catching her breath. Two silhouettes approached her.

''Look who made it! The one and only Cloudia. Why are you that thirsty that you want to taste some SOLIDER's?'' said a black-haired man. The other one just laughed and didn't say a word just came closer to her leaving little to no space between them. He tried to touch her waist but the woman grabbed his wrist, twisting it over his head.

''Not my type Shay, but if you are into that stuff no one is judging, really.'' the dark-haired cadet was now trying to grab her, but she simply slid under his friend's hand, making them face each other in an awkwardly close position. She wasn't in the mood for a fight and she didn't want to attract attention to herself. Finally, when the last cadet joined them, a different Second was accompanying him.

He had long spiky hair, as black as the raven's feathers being built like a tank, with a broad training sword strapped to his back. The uniform was spotless and a warm smile made the dense atmosphere leave the room. Being on the opposite side as those two fuckers helped with her nerves.

''For all of you who don't know, I'm Zack Fair, a Second Class SOLIDER. You stand here and not with the other cadets because you have shown promise. You have been selected either for Third's or soon enough the Turks will come to take you, but in any of those situations be proud of your accomplishments.'' he gave us a genuine smile as he laid eyes on the blonde with messy hair. ''As of tonight, you are part of the Shinra. You can party or visit your family because tomorrow you will start training. Dismissed!'' with a quick salute, the other males made their way back to the dorms, leaving for the Slums where they would party or drown their sorrow with alcohol.
She wanted to leave also but a strong grip held her in place. The hallway was empty now, only her and the Second remaining. She faced him prepared for inappropriate advances, for feeling his fingers on her body inviting her to bed. Even the thought was repulsing. Instead, he had that same smile, radiating bright energy unusual for SOLDIERS. Noticing her reaction to the touch he quickly stepped back giving her an apologetic look.

''I didn't mean to startle you just... um... it's a rare sight seeing women making it to the final cut.'' he stretched his hand and with no hesitation Cloud shook it. There was something about him that made her trust him.

''I'm Cloudia Strife, sir! But please call me Cloud...''
''Then you call me Zack! I know this might be weird but if you are in trouble around here just tell me... I know how hard it must be for you and I want to see more young women joining us with the will to fight. But the ideology here sucks and most of the newbies have the misogyny set in their minds.'' he smiled again. That was something she wouldn't expect. She can't even keep a low profile.

''Sir- Zack, I just want to be treated the same as the others. I appreciate your offer..'' but I don't want to have to earn my place in that manner. He may smile now but in the end, all men were the same, even here in Midgar. Maybe more so here than in Nibleheim.

''Offer? oh... OHH.... no no no no no, you got me all wrong... I'm not trying to...'' his head fell in disappointment. ''I'm just trying to be friendly... the guys here kinda suck and we really could use some female energy around. To brighten up the place... '' his train of thought was stopped by a ringing coming from his pocket. He picked the call, Angeal's voice greeting him.

ANGEAL: ''Hello, Zack! How are the selections going?''

ZACK:'' Great actually! We finished just about now so I should be heading back soon.''

ANGEAL:'' Meet me in the simulator, you have skipped enough training hours already!''

ZACK:''Yeah, yeah... see you there''

He turned back to Cloud meeting her curious gaze. Even under all that sweat, she looked stunning, no wonder those guys earlier picked on her.

''I have to go now, but I was serious! If you need help dealing with guys like Shay just tell me.''
He left the room in a hurry the same as the blonde. The exchange was weird but it filled her with a warm feeling in her stomach. Getting in the common showers she ignored the naked bodies around her and started undressing. None of them made a move on her as they were from her class. They had a light-hearted chat about the examination and their adversaries. Shay was nowhere to be seen. Lying on her bed she declined her roommate's offers to go out drinking one by one until she gave in. She allowed herself to celebrate even though a little voice in her mind reminded her of the dangers of the Slums for a drunk woman.

Chapter Text

It was Cloud's first time in Wall Market but somehow the atmosphere seemed familiar. Blinding lights following the colorful silhouettes in the contrasting darkness of the night. Even a patch of sky was visible from here. The smell of sweet drugs and cheap perfume made her dizzy enough but the mesmerizing music was dragging her on its rhythm. Even so, she was holding close to Iul, Jarris and Rhyse. They were dressed in denim and white and black plain shirts. The young woman had her hair set loose. Blonde locks were flowing down framing her pale face, the long lashes casting a deep shadow on her cheekbones. Her pink lips were stretched in a wide smile.

'' Aye girl! Get yo head back from the clouds, would ya?'' said Jarris dragging her by the hand to a table inside a colorful bar.

The boys ordered their drinks and started chatting about their departure. The three didn't make the cut unfortunately and they wouldn't join the infantry either. The blonde's eyes were fixated on the stage where a rather curvy dancer was seducing men left and right only to turn her head revealing the disgust in her eyes. But the hunger in those men's gazes were making her frown. Looking at the raven-haired as she performed as an object of their fun. Same as a tall, skinny guy that was dwelling by the bar watching her.

''Hey Clou! Why the long face? You should be drinkin' till ya drop!!'' they knew that she wasn't a fan of drinking regardless of the environment, but this was just a simple reminder to have fun for the night and enjoy herself while she could. She gave them a warm smile that turned into a laugh when she saw their expressions while tasting the cheap alcohol.

''I heard bout' your encounter with Shay and Lawn.'' her friend with brown hair and a nice chocolate-like skin- Rhyse- gave her a shameless grin as the three pairs of eyes turned at her waiting for a story. She began telling them as they kept on swallowing the burning drinks. The telling was received with proud looks and grins hearing the way it turned out. She didn't tell them about the encounter with Zack though.

The night went on, Cloud carrying her drunk friends and avoiding weird clubs. Finally, they stumbled upon Honey Bee Inn. Making their way inside, a strong smell of cologne made her feel dizzy again. This time she wouldn't pass the opportunity to dance. Leaving her friends on the couch, making sure that they wouldn't ask for more drinks, as they had no more money on them, she got close to the scene. It was full of dancers dressed in yellow and dark stripes, bouncing all around with graceful movements. In the center of them all, it was a man all in dark silk with golden details that resembled bee wings. The blonde was watching him from afar. He was like a snake, moving in his clothes as if it was his skin, not caring for the looks he was getting. His stance on its own made him seem proud, but his eyes were lucid as if even though he was dancing like he was alone, the man acknowledged the persisting presence of his clients.

Even if in the beginning she was keen on joining them, now she felt intimidated. The man seemed to notice the admiring attention. His face softened a little. He was intrigued by the woman clinging to the stage. Something in her gaze was more than just the usual lust but a need to indulge herself in the beauty of the moment, feel her body get lost in the rhythm. So he left his dancers giving them a knowing look. He got close to the girl, noticing now the beauty that was standing at his feet, due to the height of the stage. He extended a hand with a smile as an invitation. Many would've declined his offer thanks to his reputation but she just shily took his hand, glancing over to where three wasted men were. She pulled herself on to the stage with little to no effort still hand in hand with him.

''Don't worry about what the others think of you. I see grace in your movements and Andreea is never wrong.'' he gave her a reassuring smile, dragging her to where there was some room left. The lights dropped only to find the rest of the stage empty, Andreea and Cloud being the only ones left. Music started blasting, the blond feeling the bass deep in her body.''Try and keep up with me'' were the only words that left his mouth before he started matching with the rhythm.

Unsure what to do she slowly began to move her hips, feeling the burning eyes laid on her body. Somehow she was sinking, her breath became heavy and her mind fogged, but never stopped moving. It felt like it would've been a grave mistake. And Andreea caught on to that, so he moved towards her, placing his hands on her sides, guiding her with reassuring touches. It seemed like normal stage fright. But they kept on going, her body now moving on its own, responding to the beat, unconsciously following his lead. Cloud opened her eyes again. A smile bloomed on her face, dancing now for the fraction of sky under which she had once danced with Tifa, where they had laughed.

The blonde didn't even notice Andreea easily stepping down from the stage, leaving her the space to tell a story, watching from afar. Her insecurities faded it seemed and her moves intrigued him even more. The music started to fade in the background and with grace, the young SOLIDER received applause with a smile. She didn't notice the silver-haired woman in black leather, with glowing green eyes that had followed the show ignoring her conversation.

Cloud stepped aside, meeting Andreea's gaze. She was breathing heavily, the blonde strands of her fading bangs sticking to her forehead, much like the white shirt. The dancers flooded the stage yet again while she tried to make her way back to where her friends were.

''Where are you running off to?'' behind her it was Andreea with a judgemental look on his face. ''I believe, after we shared the stage, it might be polite to introduce yourself.''

''Oh, I'm Cloud'' she shook his hand then followed his eyes studying her body. It somehow didn't feel intrusive.

''You, my dear, have a great sense of music... hmmm... and your stature isn't bad either.'' she tilted her head just a little in confusion. ''You would make a fine dancer, Cloud. I'm not easily impressed so you know, and receiving this kind of compliment from Andreea Rhodea is indeed rare.''

''I.. thank you'' she gave him a warm smile. Her pocket started vibrating. With an apologetic look, she checked her PHS. Her eyes widened. '' I'm so sorry I would like to talk more, but'' They were almost past curfew!

''Well then I'll let you to it, but if you have trouble with your current... job... you would be welcomed here at Honey Bee Inn as a dancer. If you keep yourself in shape, that is.'' he leaned forward to kiss her cheek as the music got louder. ''And never forget to pursue beauty regardless of gender notions.''

She looked back at him, watching the lights making a path for him to the stage. She took a few deep breaths calming her body before she rejoined her friends. Men were looking at her with lust in their eyes and she felt her skin crawl. Picking a very wasted Iul the four of them made their way back to the dorms. The smell of alcohol was impregnated in her friends' clothes but fortunately not hers.

They avoided the principal entrance and went for the supplying garage, but they weren't alone.
Lawn and Shan alongside some other drunk cadets were also trying to sneak back in. The others, those who didn't make it, will simply leave in the morning but she will have her first lecture as a Third Class.

With a lot of swearing and sneaking around carrying Iul they managed to make their way back in the unsurprisingly empty dorms. Rhyse and Iul fell asleep as soon as they touched the mattress, Jarris accompanying her to the showers. The cold water was refreshing, the young woman happily washing off the smell of sweat and alcohol impregnated in her hair and skin, replacing it with the scent of the cheap soap. The two exchanged a few words and said their goodbyes as they would not have the time the next day.

In clean clothes she listened to the room falling quiet, soft breaths filling the silence. She searched her little bag of clothes, which mostly contained the equipment for climbing in which she has crossed the Nible Mountains a year and a half ago. Under the hand sewed jacket, a necklace was resting, dangling now in her hand, the weight feeling comforting. For the most, it was just a pretty shard tied with a string but for her or anyone from Neibleheim it was more. Her mother's voice came into mind, telling her stories of the Wolfes and Goddess, which at times kept her awake at night, wondering about the truth in the legend. ''When the war of the beasts brings about the world's end'' she recited softly drifting into sleep, holding the mako shard close to her chest

''Hold you guard higher, Zack!'' a graceful hit was dealt to the black-haired man's side, pushing him further back. His stance widened, allowing Angeal to place a hit in his stomach making his student lean down breathless. The cold edge of his mentor's sword guided his head upwards, locking his gaze with the blueish-green eyes, that were staring back at him with annoyance. His broad shoulders and toned muscles made The Black General of Shinra seem threatening even outside of the battlefield. But not for Zack, as he knew that his lover would never hurt him on purpose if it wasn't in training, but even then Angeal didn't inflict open wounds, just bruises. And this session was one of which the Second Class would end up feeling for a few days. He accepted the stretched up hand getting up on his feet, ruffling his raven spikes under the worried look of the other man.

''What's wrong, you are distracted today.'' he placed the training sword on the wall, reaching for the water bottles, to throw Zack one. The coldness of the water felt like a blessing, sweat rolling down his forehead. ''Is it about the new cadets?'' he asked in a curious tone, watching the young SOLIDER place his sword next to the other. He took a towel then stopped midway to his face a wide grin blooming as he met yet again the caring gaze.

''A girl made it in SOLIDER, Geal! There is finally another woman aside from Seph in the program! I can't help but be excited!'' the smile faded as quickly as it came. ''Though i think i scared her..''

Before he could continue, from the other side of the private training room, a loud groan was heard that caught the attention of both of the men. On the door frame, Genesis was waiting, arms crossed with an obvious impatience tapping the floor with his foot. He was wearing a loose shirt, probably Angeals, and some sweat pants. The blue was contrasting with his long red hair, which was tied in a short ponytail.

''Oh! But you two are sure taking your sweet time, aren't you? I told you some time ago that dinner was almost ready so you could go wash and get ready to eat.'' he started walking towards them with a menacing look in his deep blue eyes, in which green spread like ink in water. '' But of course, you didn't and now food is getting cold! That's it, from now on you are the only one cooking. Angeal, since you clearly don't enjoy my food.''

''That is not true and you know it.'' said Angeak in a soft voice placing a soft kiss on his lover's cheek.

''I'm sorry Gen, I was distracted and this lesson got longer than it needed to.'' he lifted his chin slightly kissing gently the Red General on the lips, indulging himself in his sweet taste.

''Yes flattery all over, but you two are still sweaty, in gym clothes, IN the gym and the food is still getting cold. Go shower, you smell disgusting.''

''You didn't seem to mind us being sweaty last night'' Zack said with a wide grin on his face.

''If you aren't in the kitchen in ten minutes, I'm throwing your food in the trash.'' the redhead spoke, before leaving the private gym from Angeal apartment.

The two smiled at each other then followed behind, turning left when close to the long hallway entering the common bath. Angeal had a big apartment much like the rest of the First's, with three bedrooms one of which had a king-size bed, for all of the three to fit. Even if they spent most of their time at Genesis's place because as he said it was cozier, Angeal had a better variety of ingredients, so when it was one of their turn to cook they would spend the night at the Black General's place.

Angeal's apartment resembled a cabin, with the wooden floors and hand-made carpets pinned in the walls or laying on the ground. He had a lot of plants, most of the spices, and climbing flowers that were bloomed even now, filling the space with a delightful smell. Vegetation like this was not only hard to find but also to maintain in the pollution of the city. Somehow his home was a haven for these lucky flowers, brought from the battlefields.

Zack turned to his partner, tugging his collar to make the bigger man lean down, kissing him with passion. His big hand found its way to the younger's hip and the other holding his cheek. They broke the kiss, a playfulness lighting the First's eyes.

''As much as I enjoy this, Zack, we have a very petty boyfriend and he would not hesitate to leave us hungry for the rest of the night.'' they entered the bath undressing with military efficiency, then stepped in the shower kissing lazily. They washed each other, Zack feeling blessed by the gentle rubs of his lover's hands on his naked body. He also loved to feel the tight muscles of his partner thanking Gaia for building him like a force of nature.

They quickly dried and put on some sweat pants similar to those of Gen's and walked in the kitchen. The smell of cinnamon and basil filled the room. The redhead was eyeing them, shirtless as they were when they sat down at the round table, leaving the middle spot for him.

''Twelve minutes. You are lucky I put a lot of work into this meal or you would've starved until tomorrow morning.'' he took steaming plates and placed them in front of the other two, before taking his place. ''I'm not as proud of the steak as I am of the Banoran pie.''

''It looks amazing, Gen.'' Zack dug in under the exasperated look of Genesis, while Angeal chuckled. The older two always disliked their lover's table manners and tried making him learn etiquette that he used only in public.

''You won't get food next time you ignore me, pup. You need to learn to appreciate more such gestures!''

''I do appreciate them!'' he said potting slightly.

''You surely don't show it! Maybe Geal should be rougher with your training and teach you to behave.''

''Speaking of training, you mentioned the new cadets.'' the raven-haired man said enjoying the bittersweet taste of the red wine chosen by Genesis.

''Oh, yeah! Gen, a woman made it into the program!''

''Then she must be rather skilled!'' he said, taking his dessert in hand moving to the big cream couch. Zack followed behind Angeal gathering the dishes before joining the two. The Second Class was cuddled in Genesis's lap, while the bigger man played with his lover's firey hair his head resting now on his chest.

''She is! Her name is Cloud. And when I tried to talk to her she felt attacked? She thought that i was trying to get her to bed..'' Angeal nodded in acknowledgment, Genesis making a displeased sound when he stopped playing with his hair.

''Remember the reason most women don't stay is because of sexism and other inappropriate behavior. It's normal for her to be on her toes at all times.''

''Oh she is all right! She made a fool out of her opponent.'' he said delighted by the sweetness of the pie. Genesis smelled now like cinnamon his warmth feeling comforting.

''Maybe our little pup will make a friend that will teach him some manners. Some feminine influence would be good for you.''

''I get enough of that from Sephiroth! Where is she anyway?'' their friend would usually join them for dinner after a long day at work since she was as skilled as Zack when it came to cooking.

''With Scarlet in the Slums i think. Scouting out dancers from Honey Bee maybe.''

The conversation changed topics, a movie playing in the background. It all soon turned into a sloppy make-out session on the couch, Zack being caught in between the more experienced men. Genesis was kissing him with passion, Angeal's skilled fingers moving on his and his redhead lover's body. Soon marks appeared on the raven-haired's neck, Genesis's shirt being tossed somewhere in the living room. With his legs wrapped around the redhead's the three moved in the bedroom, closing the door shut behind them, forgetting any problems and leaving them for tomorrow.

Chapter Text

In the morning the dorms were already empty, regardless of the early hour. Cloud sighed loudly saying a whispered goodbye to her already gone friends. She was all alone now. Glancing over to the window, she saw a dim glimmer of the descending moon. She grabbed her trooper uniform and went to the common showers, washing awake. The same tired face from the other day was staring back at her from the mirror, the same eyes but she felt proud.

‘’I made it Ma! I did!’’ she said like a silent prayer.

She tied her hair in a low ponytail, gathering her golden locks in a simple braid. Another run under the lighting sky allowed her to put her mind at ease, the necklace hidden underneath the clothes. She would start wearing the crystal with her from now on. It was a reminder, a promise to not accept defeat easily. And to make her strive for the better. The young woman hasn’t worn it since she climbed the Nible mountains and made it in the city that was supplying their home with food. It was rough knowing that she could die at any given time and no one would know. Not even her mom that she still sends money from time to time, not Tifa whom she misses deeply. She didn’t stall too much around the court and left for the cafeteria, where most of the new Third cadets and the rest from SOLIDER would eat from now on.

Seeing that she wasn’t the first one from her squad made her feel better. It would’ve been awkward. She paid for her food, smiling at the visibly overworked man behind the counter, sitting as far as possible from the douches from her class and avoiding the Seconds and Thirds. It wasn’t all tasteless and it was an improvement from the barely eatable food of the troopers. The big clock of glass, covering an entire wall showed that there was still an hour until they had to present themselves for the introductory lesson. What surprised her was the fact that some candidates were missing from her class. Even if they had been recruited by the Turks it still amazed her how they made the young men seem as if they never even existed in the program.

Insecurity crawled in her mind as she remembered the weird encounter from that night. She quickly dismissed those thoughts when she left the cafeteria, followed by some fellow newbies. And unfortunately for her Lane was one of them.

‘’Look who’s here! And I thought that we finally got rid of you, recruited by the Turks maybe, but it seems that even they didn’t want you.’’ The others started laughing closing a circle on her. Fifteen minutes until the instruction and the last thing she wanted was to be late.

‘’You seriously couldn’t have thought that you can evade me that easily, did you Lane? I have to say that I do feel in some way disappointed that you think so lowly of me.'' her words were filled with poison. Glaring at the group she looked for an escape but there was none and she doubted anyone would pass by. Hell she wouldn't have come this way if she was followed.

''Oh, so the little squirt knows how to speak? Still, think that your buddies will come and help you? Or are you that stupid?'' his eyes darkened as he looked at her body with a lustful gaze that made the young woman sick.

An unsettling silence fell as they closed in the circle pushing her against a wall. Ten minutes she counted and she was five minutes away from the gym. Just a great day! Seven men and all of them decently built, but she always watched her classmates closely when she could, and fortunately, they were slow. So she took advantage of that, placing a low blow at the man at her right that was leaning against the wall slightly. While the others moved in to grab her, Cloud jumps over the hunched-over cadet and ran towards the gym as fast as she could.

She continued running down the hallway not paying attention to anyone around her until she bumped into someone. The impact made her lose balance, while the other person grabbed her arm holding her not to fall. She looked up and her heart stopped. Silver strands of hair perfectly combed framed a pale face, revealing pools of glowing green cut in the middle by black cat-like pupils.

''General Sephiroth, ma'am!'' she quickly took a step back, saluting the taller woman, breathing heavily.

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She opened her eyes feeling an overwhelming headache. Sephiroth glanced around her bedroom, groaning loudly when she noticed the clock showing the late hour. Damn that Scarlet and her drinking games. Next time she would rather stick with dining with Genesis, Angeal, and Zack. It wasn't actually that late, just late for the General who usually wakes around the sunset. Pushing herself off the bed she swore silently at herself for sleeping in her leather jacket. At least it wasn't her uniform one. Avoiding the bathroom she went into the large kitchen wondering again why she had such a big apartment. While the coffee was boiling the silver-haired woman opened the windows in all the other rooms.

The bathtub was now filling with warm water, the sweet scent of vanilla and jasmine blending with that of the coffee. Leaning against the white counter she tied her long hair in a messy bun before checking her PhS. And of course, it was flooded with messages in the group chat, mostly making fun of her for going out to scout again. But she couldn't help it. Another sip of coffee and she started typing before she abandoned the device on the countertop alongside the now empty cup.

She slid her tight black leather pants down, following with the loose black button-up shirt with silvery strings decorating the sleeves rolled up to her elbows. Taking down the hairpins and tie she stepped into the warm tub. She loved her bathroom more than anything in the apartment. The black furniture was complementing the blue and ultramarine walls, with tiles placed in a mosaic along the wall on which a big mirror covering most of it, was hanging. The tub made out of peacock marble occupied most of the space, next to it being the shower cabin, and to the leftmost the toilet made out of the same marble. A black shelf placed next to the tub held all of her products costume made for her. Se picked out a bottle of almond shampoo and started massaging her head loving the gentle smell sticking onto her instead of that of the alcohol.

Flashes started crawling back into her mind, events from last night shining through the dizziness in her brain. She remembered walking in the Honey Bee Inn as per usual only that this time someone sparked her interest. A young blonde walked on stage, in civilian clothes and started
dancing with the infamous Andreea, a very dear friend of hers. Scarlet was going off about some
problems in the Materia Study Department, as well as some issues in Hojo’s Mako Program, but she couldn’t care less. Her attention was directed towards the blonde, watching from afar. Even at that distance, Sephiroth, with her enhanced senses could see clear as day the bright blue eyes, full of
excitement.

Those eyes remained with her as she rinsed off the also almond shower gel. Emerging from
the steaming bath she quickly dressed in her black leather boots that were covering her legs up to
the knees, where dark pants were curving along with her muscles and bottom. A large grey tunic tucked in
her pants were covered almost entirely by her notorious battle jacket. She decided to skip breakfast as always and made her way to the weaponry room, where Masume held the spotlight, outshining all of the others with its grace. With it strapped now on her back, the Silver General made her way back down to the hell house named Shinra Tower.

One thing that she hated here was the excruciating noise of machinery all around the lower
levels. She couldn’t imagine the way the Thirds were sleeping in this kind of environment. She walked at a steady pace, feeling her head throb. Those blue eyes stayed with her. It was fascinating for the General how those blue pools managed to follow her all day.

It was still early and she knew damn well that her friend will be late since she missed dinner
and they probably resolved to enjoy themselves all night. She was jealous of their relationship more
than anything. She recalled the time when her three friends tried including her in their relationship
but it turned out weird. They gave up and stayed the way they were, Genesis still trying to find her a
partner. Most turned into hookups that were kind of disappointing on the men part while her female
partners intrigued her. She sighed passing in the empty hallway. Maybe that girl will be at the inn this night also, though she didn’t seem to work there.

Footsteps were closing in on her and before she could properly respond a woman crashed
into her. Her blonde hair held in place with a sturdy tie, light strands falling out of place on her pale
face. The same eyes from the night before were staring at her, with a frightened daze. The young
woman quickly with drawled from the silver-haired’s hold, saluting.

Sephiroth hid her surprise noticing just now the Third Class uniform on the blue-eyed, looking a little too big for her.

‘’Cadet, what is the rush?’’ her voice was cold.

‘’ I apologize, ma’am!’’ she couldn’t believe she could be this stupid and unlucky. '' I lost track of time and I don't want to be late for the instruction.''

Sephiroth heard other hurried steps, heavier and it seems as the cadet heard them to since a glimmer of fear found its way in her deep blue eyes. ''You are free to go.'' somehow the silver-haired wanted to warn the young woman to leave. She had been followed by someone, harassed maybe. It made her stomach turn at the thought. A few other cadets appeared glancing at the blonde. They saluted stiffly. She turned to them planing to ask them the same while the younger left the hallway. It wasn't a lot but she could stall them while she got to the instruction room.

And Cloud was infinitely grateful for that. Even if she didn't think it was on purpose, the encounter saved her from the shame of running away without fighting back, though she knew she didn't stand a chance. The room was buzzing with whispers when she entered, only a few moments before the instructor started talking. She was most pleased when the group from earlier finally caught up to her and got a lecture for being late, followed by a punishment fit for them - cleaning the bathrooms for the next month or so. All through the meeting though they glared at her, making her skin crawl once more. The key access cards for their apartments were distributed. Another advantage of being a Third was being allowed to live in the Shinra Tower. The thought of sleeping, more or less, under the same roof as the Firsts made her heart flutter. She couldn't stop thinking about General Sephiroth, her mesmerizing voice being stuck in her mind even if she heard the pity behind her words.

Cloud left the room, tugging the card deep in the pocket where the little scale was resting as she made her way back to the dorms to get her little luggage. She couldn't tell if the sudden surge of excitement was due to escaping the torture called bed from the dorms or the training the blonde would start the next day. She looked around recalling all of her fond memories she shared with the friends that are now putting this part of their life behind, continuing to move forward on a different path. The weight of her backpack, filled with her climbing gear, a few civilian clothes, and a cure and fire materia, returning on her back made her feel again like it was the first time stepping foot in Midgar. At that time she was frightened by the bright lights of the city and restless sounds of the night. She wasn't the only one from the outskirts of the country, so sharing the longing for the sky helped at adjusting to the new lifestyle. But because of that entitled brats such as Lane and Shay, that lived in the Upper Plate made her life a little harder.

It reminded her of home at times, but since then it had passed almost four years and the blond learned to defend herself against men like those from Neibleheim. It was especially hard for her to adopt since she was a year older than the rest because she traveled alone instead of going with the others from her town. And climbing the Nible Mountains was a lot harder than she had expected and it made her lose the first selection. For that year she stayed in the Sector 7 and 5 Slums working with a florist girl named Aerith at day time and at night she trained. The monsters were a big pain and she had no training in combat except for the few moves learned from Tifa. The fire materia saved her numerous times, but she couldn't wield it as well as she knew she could. Another skill needed to be learned added to the list. When spring came around again she made a good impression on the examiners and they overlooked her late enrollment.

Cloud was lost so deep into thought that she hadn't noticed that she passed the Thirds' floor and she was now on the Seconds'. She didn't even hear the voice calling her name in the empty hallway. A big hand landed on her shoulder making her jolt out of the unknown person's range.

''Quick on your feet i see!''

She relaxed when her eyes met the warm gaze of Zack Fair. The cadet saluted and when a smirk found its way on the older man's face she noticed the other person behind him.

''You managed to scare her. Bravo, Zack!'' his face was hidden behind the Second Class Solider mask but he smiled at the young woman warmly. It made her feel inferior having them look at her like she was a poor lost girl in the woods. Though she was a little confused about her whereabouts at the moment.

''I.. umm.. was looking for the Third Class apartments and i think i got lost...'' she sounded pathetic.

''Well it seems I'm needed elsewhere. Please show her the way until she goes to the upper floors by mistake.'' the other Solierd walked away as Zack waved at him.

''That was Kunesl and he likes to boss me around like that since he is older than me. Well, you heard the man! What do you say about a tour to your room, with your one and only as a guide.'' he grinned at the blonde hoping to accept his offer. Maybe they could talk some more, clarify things.

''I would really appreciate that, but i don't want to be a nuisance.''

''What are you talking bout'? My pleasure! Now if you look to your right at the last door on the floor you will see my room. Next...''

It was fun walking with Zack around the Tower and she got to know the place a little bit better. The ice between the two broke easily. The raven-haired talked a lot and he didn't seem to mind her being quiet. He was used to that from Sephiroth at times.

''Oh! That's my apartment!'' they stood in front of the door awkwardly for a few seconds until she broke off the silence. ''Do you want to come in? I have to unpack and I could use a little help.'' a lie since she had little to no baggage but it was nice having someone to talk to. ''if.. you are not busy of course...''

''Sure, i don't have anything better to do anyway.''

The room had nothing special. A wooden floor with white walls stained from place to place welcomed Cloud in her new home. A small bed was waiting on the opposite side of the room next to a countertop with a sink incorporated. There was also a little door that most certainly led to a spaceless restroom.

''It sure has been a while since I've seen a Third room.''

''I have the whole place for my own. I'm really not complaining.''

Zack sat down on the bed, bouncing up and down like a little child. She had heard that General Angeal was his mentor and the thought of the raven-haired being disciplined made smile. He must've been a handful. Cloud began taking out her clothes placing them carefully in the drawer next to the window. Curious, Zack looked through her bag while she was inspecting the restroom.

''Why do you have hiking equipment in your bag?'' his voice resembled a child that heard for the first time of the Fairy Tooth.

''Oh, well I had to pass the Nible Mountains on foot since the men from my village believed that i wasn't worthy of being a SOLIDER.''

''What's it called?''

''Neibleheim.''

''Weird name!''

''Really? Where are you from then?''

''Why from Gongaga of course!'' they both started laughing. ''Seems like we're both from backwater named places.''

''Seems like it! Say, where can I hide something valuable in here?''

''Under the sink the wood board should be removable.'' he kneeled revealing a small compartment. ''What do you want to put in there anyway?'' she didn't seem the type to wear jewelry.

Maybe it was stupid to tell him. What if he reported her for possessing materia or worse take it. If it was anyone else she would just shrug it off and hide it from them, but Zack seemed trustworthy, like a loyal dog. The blonde reached down in the bag holding the two orbs of materia in both hands. They glowed slightly as any inactive materia would.

''I used materia back home when i would go hunting. It made my life easier. In the forest, far from the Reactor, there is a mako fountain. That's where i got my and fire materia, though I don't know how to use it properly for fighting.'' she placed the two carefully under the sink and hid them under the wood board.

Zack's phone started buzzing.

''And that's my cue to leave. I'm sure you will learn how to use them properly. The materia instructor is very strict though so make sure not to make him mad if you don't want to get zapped. I'll see ya later, Cloud!''

''Bye, Zack!'' she closed the door behind him and smiled. The reflection from the window showed her a nineteen-year-old blonde with hope in her eyes and it seemed foreign to her.

Chapter Text

Cloud soon discovered that training wasn't exactly what she was expecting. If you were left behind you would have to figure it out on your own. So Cloud made sure that she was close to the top of her class because they did have classes. A thing that she didn't expect was the amount of strategic and theoretical courses they had. They were indeed interesting and in most of them, she was the best. But the same couldn't be said by practical classes. The mentors paid little to no attention to her question. Mostly because she was asking for other ways to bring down an opponent than overpowering them. So she had to figure it out on her own. That made her spend more time practicing outside class, mostly at night.

On one of those nights she met Zack. They have been keeping in touch and spoke about nonsense most of the time but Cloud appreciated her friend's presence. Having a Second Class as a friend was a very weird concept for her, but Zack's lack of interest in asserting dominance through his rank truly helped strengthen their bond. So in that chilly night, the energetic SOLIDER offered to train her. It was a blessing even if she would return to her room full of bruises, with sore muscles.

After a few weeks of training as Third cadets, one by one the other males from her class started mako shots. They would miss a week or so and then they would be back stronger, with their senses sharper. By now there was only a quarter of the class that was waiting for their due date to arrive. She didn't even get called for an examination. The blonde tried asking her mentors but they had no answer other than ''Be patient, you need to have our body prepared for the mako first.'', but they knew that that wasn't the reason. But she didn't get discouraged, or at least she didn't show it to others. It didn't matter that every morning before sunrise the reflection in the mirror showed a miserable young woman, with the blue eyes that were once full of light are starting to become blank.

It was one of the training days with Zack. After a long night of killing monsters in the Sector 5 Slums, Cloud felt exhausted. It was the fifth night in a row and she didn't seem to get a break soon. It was close to two a.m. When she finally reached the tower, covered in slime and blood that burned her light skin. The showers are empty and there is no warm water left but she isn't complaining. The first pay was slightly bigger so after sending home some money, she went and bought some soap, tampons, and shampoo that smelled of anything other than sulfur. It was a sweet scent of orange that made her skin seem less dry. The blood washed off but some of the slimy substance resided still in her hair even after the third wash.

The blonde dried herself quickly and put her hair in a tight braid. A pair of black sweat pants and a plain blue shirt were all the equipment she needed for tonight's lesson: hand-to-hand combat. It wasn't the first time but the raven-haired SOLIDER just got home from a mission that as he said held him on the sidelines. So naturally, by his energetic nature, he would blow some steam.

The gray corridors were quiet as always. She got used to navigating through the Shinra Tower even if at just the lower levels. The training ground was open even at night in here because nobody heard this deep underground. She pushed the heavy doors and switched the light on. Zack wasn't here yet so she figured she might as well start stretching.

It was odd really that every time she was alone, General Sephiroth appeared in her mind. It made her heart race every time she thought about her green eyes, her silk-like silver hair falling... Cloud stopped stretching her legs. Why was she thinking about this? Sephiroth is a heroine, someone to look up to. And most of all they were a woman! Why then? Why did her breathing get heavy when the pleasant voice echoed in her mind? Why? Maybe it was better not to have an answer to this question. Maybe it was better to bury it deep down in the core of her soul and never bring it up again. That question brought her enough pain when she found its answer a few years ago. She pretended like that answer didn't exist anymore. If she was lying to herself then so it shall be.

Cloud went in the hallway looking for Zack. It wasn't like him to be late and also it was a good distraction.

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The helicopter landed finally, after a flight of 5 hours on top of the Shinra building. It seemed like the hangars were all full so they had to carry all of the equipment and ammunition all the way down to the 50th floor. At least he could consume his energy on something. And Kunsel did notice that during the flight.

''Go on Zack, I got this covered. I know you are excited to meet someone at home!''

''Thanks Kunsel!'' he said while he made his way to the 60th floor, where Angeal's and Genesis' apartments were.

They haven't seen each other in a while so he missed his two lovers deeply. He just hoped they were home. When the elevator reached its destination, the young Second jolted out of it to the oak door. It unlocked under his keycard as he stepped in.

''I'm home!''

In the hallway, Genesis appeared wearing a red button-down tucked in tight black pants. The redhead smiled softly with a sleepy expression on his flawless face. The auburn strands were held in place by a few pins. Loveless dangling in hand Genesis watched the younger take off his dirty battle boots, abandoning them by the entrance.

''Hello, darling!''

Zack rose again on his feet and closed in the distance between them, placing his hands around his lover's waist. Their lips met in a sweet light kiss. Genesis's lips tasted like apple pie and honey, soft under his touch. The First cupped his cheeks and broke off the kiss.

''Welcome home!''

''It's good to be back!'' his lips quirked in a small smile. ''Is Angeal home?'' they walked towards the kitchen where a plate with steaming soup was waiting.

''I'm afraid not, pup. He was just deployed in my stead on a mission. Go take a bath before you eat!''

''Why didn't you go?''

''Modeoheim is cold and I don't like it there. Also, some annoying Seconds are there and I don't want to start throwing fireballs on a mountain with avalanche risk.''

Zack smirked, remembering every time he pissed off Genesis. It didn’t happen anymore, but when he has just started dating the two top generals of Shinra, the raven-haired SOLIDER would constantly fight with the auburn man. After a while, they started to get along until Zack begged Genesis for materia wielding lessons. Instead of training, the younger man managed to piss off the other constantly. It’s safe to say that they were ban for a short amount of time from practicing with materia inside the Tower. Genesis just loved to hit Zack with Firagas and Thundagas. It’s true, he learned something, but it just made their relationship a little harder to maintain. As always Angeal managed to make the two stop fighting and in the end, give up on the lessons. It wasn’t all that bad though, but Zack knew firsthand how Genesis’s fire felt. He wouldn’t wish that on anyone.

The redhead turned his attention on the stove that released a pleasant aroma of vanilla and chocolate. His kitchen wasn’t as big as Angeal’s but it was a cozy one, the warm tones of brown harmonising with the light shades of peach.

’’Chocolate chip cookeis?’’

’’ As soon as you wash off that disgusting smell of slump, we can have a nice dinner.’’

Not waiting for another remark, Zack made his way into the large bathroom from their bedroom. While the apartment was designed by a professional, the bathroom was Genesis’s entire work. Unlike the rest, the furniture here had a more modern aspect, with angular shapes instead of round edges with wave-like ornaments. The bathtub occupied most of the space, alongside a shower and a white sink. The walls had a dark shade of red, almost brown, that contrasted the also white shaft filled with creams, shampoo, conditioner, and different soaps all custom made. After a few moments of thinking, the raven-haired picked a bottle of shampoo with a tropical scent and a jasmine soap.

After making sure that his spikes were clean and untangled he dressed in a pair of loose gray jeans and a black shirt. The dinner was served in the living room, where candles lit up, giving a romantic touch.

’’What’s this all for?’’

’’I will also be leaving tomorrow and I will return at the same time as Ange. I thought that we might as well do something special since we haven’t seen each other in so long.’’ Their eyes met once with a kind purple invaded by green dots and the other with blue pools smeared with the same green glow. It didn’t matter how many times Zack looked at his lover because he could never get sick of his elegant features. He was exactly like a rose, beautiful and harmful.

’’Thank you, Gen. It is perfect... you are perfect. I missed you so much.’’

They quietly started eating because the tension in the air would soon cut their appetite. When they both finished, in the same silence, Zack gathered the dishes and put them in the sink. He then stared blankly at the wall for a little while. He felt like he was forgetting something. Strong arms wrapped around his waist, sending little sparks of warmth down his spine.

’’ what are you doing, darling?'' Genesis's voice was husky, purring next to his ear. His breath hitched slightly when the auburn man planted a soft kiss behind his ear.

He turned to face his lover. The redhead's eyes darkened as lips curled in a smirk. For Genesis, Zack was more than just his lover. He was an experience, never the same no matter how many times he explored those defying eyes or caramel lips. His skin glowed even in the cheap light of the kitchen. He was mesmerizing every time, with his dark rebel hair spiked in inexplicable directions. The older SOLIDER missed deeply his puppy.

He moved his hand from the hips, slowly towards the neck, making sure to graze his chest. Fingers slipped in the fluffiness of his spikes tilting his head slightly, bringing their lips together. It was slow and devouring. Zack closed his eyes and gripped the tabletop. He smiled in the kiss. He missed that.

With the hand that remained on the hips, Genesis pulled his partner closer, drawing their bodies together. The kiss deepened and the two consumed each other fighting for control. In the end, Genesis won, slipping his tongue inside Zack’s mouth, exploring it once more. He let go of the tabletop and started moving his hands aimlessly on the redhead’s back, lifting his shirt to feel the heated skin. They both paused for a moment.

’’ Not in my kitchen, pet. I want to keep my furniture a little longer.’’ He grinned at his partner.

’’ I think we can both agree that was equally Angeal’s fault!’’

They were panting, filling their lungs with air before their lips met yet again in a fiery kiss. With his hands around Genesis’s neck, the raven-haired SOLIDER wrapped his feet around the slender and yet toned waist. Without missing a beat, never giving an inch, they both made their way into the bedroom.

Genesis threw Zack on the king-sized bed being delighted by the view of his younger lover sprawled over the purplish covers. His shirt lifted slightly showing off his tanned skin and strong muscles. He resembled Angeal in a way, with his strong physique and silky black hair. But the similarities ended there as the Second had the most adorable freckles on his nose. His lips fuller and a slutty mouth that he enjoyed so much to tease.

As Genesis removed his button-down, agonizingly slow, Zack followed the lust in his eyes, trailing over his body. They met in a kiss again, the Red General on the top feeling the skin of his abdomen beneath his shirt. The sweet lips moved lower placing light feather kisses along the brown skin, making Zack tremble in anticipation when the blazing breath stopped next to his ear.

’’ You sure are eager tonight, dear!’’ one of those skillful hands moved down giving a gentle squeeze to the bulge forming in the loose jeans, that made Zack’s breath hitch. ’’I want you to enjoy yourself tonight dearest! As much as I will enjoy hearing you scream my name!’’

Zack heard this so many times and yet it made him blush again, darkening his cheeks. He wouldn’t give Gen all of the control. He brushed his hands along the toned muscles. The smooth creamy skin smelled like cinnamon and vanilla. He brushed his fingers over the sensitive nipples, stealing a little humm of pleasure from the redhead's lips.

’’ Z-Zack I believe you are starting to misbehave. If Angeal isn’t rough enough with you’’ he said with a husky deep voice while placing his hands around the caramel neck, pinning the younger down to the mattress’’ I am more than happy to start training you.’’

Zack felt light-headed, as the grip on his neck slowly started easing, a wave of euphoria rushing into his mind. Before he could comprehend he felt sharp teeth grazing his sensitive skin. The pressure built up into his lower body. With his partner so close that he could feel the heat through the thin material of the clothing. A whimper of surprise escaped from the Second’s lips as he was marked by the Red General. Again and again, he was showered in kisses while the shirt disappeared allowing Genesis to leave a trail of kisses down to the sensitive buds. He took one of them between his teeth carefully disposing of the jeans also.

Zack moaned, sinking his hands into the red mess that was escaping the hairpins. The ministration on his nipples didn’t distract the raven-haired enough from the painful erection, still trapped in his boxers.

’’Ge- ah... Gen, please..’’ he stopped for a second watching the flustered man.

’’Please what?’’

’’ i ca-can’t anymore.. please it hurts...’’

Genesis pulled down the underwear releasing the already leaking cock.

’’ Do you want me to take care of this, pup?

’’Yes, please!’’

The trail of kisses continued until it reached the aching member. With a swift move of the tongue, Zack moaned loudly. Warmth enveloped him as Genesis took his needing dick deeper and deeper into his mouth only to release it with a pop. It was torturing the first few times that he kept his movements restrained to his lover’s exasperation. Sparks of pleasure spread through Zack’s body as his boyfriend’s head was moving faster, stealing pitty full whimpers from him. He was so close so he dug his hands again in the soft hair, warning Gen.

He simply took a bottle of lube from the nightstand and coated his fingers with the substance. He circled the entrance, not stopping once his ministration. One finger penetrated Zack, bringing him so much closer to the edge, but he used all of his control to delay it. He didn’t want this to end. A second finger added and as they curled blissfully inside him to find the sweet spot. A single graze was enough to induce a powerful orgasm, Zack releasing it into Genesis’s mouth. He swallowed greedily, milking Zack of everything he had with strong strokes of the hand.

’’ I would normally say that I’m disappointed in your lack of self-control, puppy, but I can’t wait any longer either.’’

The black pants fell next to the bed along with the underwear, revealing his hard cock. He coated it with lube then tossed the bottle on the far side of the bed, propping himself at the entrance.

’’ I can’t anymore, Gen!’’

A sudden intrusion tore a loud moan from the raven-haired male. Genesis groaned in pleasure as the warmth of his lover's inside was squeezing him just slightly. He thursted again and again until they reached a steady rhythm that kept making Zack gasp hopelessly for air every time that sweet spot was touched. His legs wrapped around the slender waist moaning loudly to the beat of the slapping each time Genesis entered with precision, sending heat within the younger one.

’’Gene- sis! Ge- ah! Ugh... faster, fuck me until my mind goes blank!’’ he moaned while pulling his partner in a heated kiss.

As asked, Genesis started thrusting faster, growling in the kiss. Zack released his hold on the pale neck, slumping against the pillows yet again, gripping the sheets. Loud moans filled the room of both SOLDIERS as they closed their orgasm. Strong hands held Zack’s hips in place while thrusting lost its pace, being now desperate. With a loud growl Genesis thursted deep inside hitting his lover’s prostate, cumming. Zack’s chest was now dirtied by his own cum as he released soon after Genesis.

They stared at each other for a little while in pose orgasmic bliss, until Genesis cleaned them both with tissues. After that, the two of them cuddled close drifting to sleep into each other’s arms.

Chapter Text

The sound of an annoying alarm woke Genesis up. The sky was still dark and the clock showed the early hour of 3 a.m. Zack picked up the phone and set off the noise. He waited a few seconds for his lover to return to sleep but instead, he untangled himself with care, trying not to disturb him. Even with his eyes shut he knew that Zack was checking to see if he was awake. The young one then made his way to the bathroom, from which he emerged in some black sweat pants and a blue shirt. He left with easy steps making little to no sound.
It was suspicious. The redhead followed his lover's example and dressed, then placed a combat knife in his pocket. The hallway was quiet except for the silent mechanism of the elevator. He took the stairs to the lowest floor, where the combat training hall was. The training hall separated into one enormous room, where cadets were usually trained and smaller individual gyms, for more compact groups. And Genesis has picked up Zack's heavy steps leading to the long hallway that united the rooms with one another.
Even if nothing was wrong with this scenario something felt off. Why would he have an alarm set up? Even if Angeal usually sets more rigorous training sessions when he is away, Zack would never wake up before sunrise. The redhead stopped in front of the closed door. It was stupid, very stupid to doubt his boyfriend in such a way and it would end up just by bringing up more drama. Maybe he should just go to bed and not mention this to either of them.
A loud thud came from behind the closed doors. If he was here, why not watch his lover train for a little while. Genesis glanced up looking through the glass windows. His blood went cold. A woman was also watching Zack demonstrating defensive stances. He turned his head to the woman, smiling at her with a huge smile that Genesis had seen only towards him and Ange. Rage pent up as flames danced on the tip of his fingers. That little bitch swept her man? Ohoo he could burn all of her hair to a crisp along with her face. The fiery man placed his hand on the heavy door waiting for it to melt under his touch. But he wouldn't lash out.
It was very quiet after he left the two ''lovebirds'' to have their fun. So he used the tactic that always worked in his favor on the battlefield but not only. He would wait for Angeal's return first, then act. His pace was calmer this time, thinking of ways to punish his younger cheater lover for submitting to old habits. It was hard enough to tame him when they started dating, to refrain him from taking other women or men to his bed. The youth didn't quite understand the boundaries of an open relationship and so fights and literal fights became the norm for a while. That affected not only their capabilities as Generals but also built a lot of walls between the three of them. Unwanted memories of sleepless nights on the battlefield not knowing if either of them was alive. They eventually talked it out after being pushed from behind by Sephiroth. Even an uptight woman like her couldn't stand seeing her friends so unhappy.
As soon as he reached the apartment, he fell onto the bed taking a deep breath, counting to ten. He never saw a blonde such as her in the Tower. He knew almost all of the accountants and secretaries. And yet he couldn't recall such a dirty blonde with her built. Maybe she didn't work here. But then how could the little mophead bitch have entered? Realization washed over him like a wave of sadness. Zack must've given her an access card for the lower floors so that they could meet in secret like this. So it had been happening for a while. Before he could get swept up by his anxieties, the phone vibrated on the nightstand.
ANGEAL: What's up Gen? It's around 3 a.m. In Midgar, why are you up?
GENESIS: You should ask our lying boyfriend that!
ANGEAL: I beg your pardon?
GENESIS: You would think that after a night of passionate sex, he would sleep like a log beside me and keep me company until it was time for me to depart again. But apparently, our spiky dearest decided to flee and meet up with none other than a woman to show off his fighting skills.
ANGEAL: Let's not go head first into this matter, this might be a misunderstanding-
GENESIS: Oh, as much as I would love that to be the case, I know his flirtatious smile, Angeal, and oh was he showing off his muscles.
ANGEAL: Did.. eh, sighed deeply, did you make a scene?
GENESIS: I did not. I prefer to be petty and plan my revenge while I am away.
ANGEAL: Let's wait until all three of us are together to confront him, though I believe there is bound to be something missing from your perspective. I choose to trust Zack. I don't want to believe he would cheat on us...
GENESIS: Again?
ANGEAL: Yeah... you have to leave in the morning, right? You better get some sleep or you will be a pain for the Seconds.
GENESIS: I'm going to Modeoheim dear, it is expected to make life hard for these imbeciles. I love you, be careful.
ANGEAL: You too!
He put down the phone and closed his eyes. Even if he couldn't sleep he just ignored the ever-growing silence. He also ignored the fact that before Zack entered the room he listened to see if his lover was asleep and that he placed a light kiss on his cheek. It was 5 a.m. and Genesis stood up looking fondly at the younger Second, hoping that his fears weren't true.

''Say, Spike, are you nervous?''
''Not really. Pass me the Materia and stop snooping through my stuff!''
''Where are you gonna put so many things? And why do you need so many anyway, it's just a recon mission, something easy. You don't even get to fight.''
''Because I still haven't got my enhancements and we are going up a mountain in full-on winter. I can't help but be cautious.''
Truth be told, she was mostly cautious because she happened to be one of the very lucky recruits. Even if all of them got to go on a mission with one of the Generals, very few were the ones that got to accompany Sephiroth. After almost two months of training, she learned a lot, though most of her basic fighting style was thanks to Zack and his lack of missions as of late. It still bugged her that her mako injections weren't anytime soon, she wanted to make a good impression on her superiors. The pay also increased for being able to buy a pack of pads and some other general utilities, to sending home money to her mother. The apartment also got a lot more vibrant with the changed bedsheets and curtains. The Materia felt heavy in her hands. Zack also taught her a few tricks on using it properly.
''What if they find it on you?''
''It's for an emergency, I have to take it with me. But you are right, what if they find it and they say I stole it, because how could I get a hold of natural materia and-''
The raven-haired started laughing, rolling in the bed. ''Geez, calm down Cloud, I was just joking! So you are nervous!''
''Of course, I am! Weren't you also on your first mission?''
''Sure! But I also managed to get Angeal's attention that time. It was due to my great skill in battle and also because I was the first cadet to zapp him during said battle.''
''Zapp as in-''
''A thunder cast right next to him, hitting his sword.''

The flight was very quiet. No one dared to speak after General Sephiroth joined them in the airship. Murmuring curses at her motion sickness she finally stepped down on the white ledge. The cold swept over the blonde sending shivers down her spine, a small smile appearing on her face. It felt like home.
''We have to move around the mountain and look for a secret base of Wutai's. It needs to take no more than three days to gather intel and come back, understood?''
''Yes ma'am!'' Their voices echoed in the quiet valley. Sephiroth's silver hair glowed in the cold light of the sun. Even if Cloud was used to the cold, she still couldn't understand how The General could walk around in just leather clothes. Maybe when she will get her enhancements the cold won't bother her either.
They climbed quietly, exchanging a few words while passing each other. In front of the squad, the silver woman kept a steady pace, unbothered by the knee-high snow or the strong winds. Cloud couldn't say the same. The glimmer of Masume blinded her at times, dangling at her master's shoulders. The clouds gathered, covering the blue sky again. Maybe she wasn't fated to enjoy the sunlight any longer. They took a quick break for checking directions.
Cloud couldn't help and stare at the gloved fingers that tapped lightly on the tablet's screen. A slight frown found its way on the otherwise expressionless face. Among the new teammates, it was a familiar face from Materia wielding, a smaller frame than the other SOLDIERS that surrounded them. When their eyes met, his lips pressed in a thin line before he looked away. Ayden Vhay was his name and he used to bully her for her long hair back when they joined. It was when he dragged her down a set of stairs, that she decided to cut it off. It was a good choice in the end as it didn't incomodate her during training anymore. It eventually grew out to shoulder length but nobody bothered her about it anymore. A freezing wind blew over them, pine and old wood scenting the air around them. Something in her gut told her to go back. Maybe her senses were off. She would usually trust her instincts, never going up the mountain when a storm was approaching. Sephiroth seemed to notice it as well.
''Let's move!''
In only a few minutes, darkness swept over the mountain, swallowing any warmth left in the air. A dense fog dropped down, turning the next hour of climbing into a blind run along the harsh walls of gray stone. They have tied themselves together with a while ago when one of the Seconds almost slipped off the cliff. A long tunnel led them to a relatively sheltered platform, closed in by a crater-like form, created by the mountain. It was unusual, but familiar in a way. At least the wind couldn't blow them away now. Despite the weather conditions, Sephiroth untied herself and soon followed the others.
''There should be a ledge around here. We will save enough time so that we will return by tomorrow. You! Might as well scout the area, we will rest for a few minutes.'' she pointed at Ayden.
The boy looked dumbfounded for a second, then walked around unsure to the middle of the area. Cloud saw the disappointed looks on her colleagues. They were tired, all of them, but Sephiroth didn't care. As she was about to approach the General a sound that lingered in her mind for ears filled the quiet valley. Cloud managed to see the horrified expression on Ayden's face before the ice cracked beneath his feet.
It was Neibleheim all over again. A small body, with long jet black hair shouting her name over and over again, fear overwhelming the children. She found herself screaming ''Don't move rashly!'' a scared pair of eyes that didn't belong to her friend turned to her. ''Try to lay flat on your stomach.'' he most likely didn't know what to do in this situation- he seemed to be from a warm place. Everyone held their breaths. Sephiroth watched with interest the young blonde.
Without breaking, eye contact Cloud tied the rope around herself and a tree, walking slowly towards Ayden. When she passed Sephiroth, gloved fingers held her in place. ''What are you doing?'' it was a cold tone that made Cloud shiver. ''This is a geyser if you didn't notice, and we don't know anything about it. It may be connected to a river that will carry him away DROWNING him!''
''And how is adding more weight on the ice is going to help?''. Usually, they would avoid lakes, but now it seemed like the best route. It wasn't the first time that someone fell into a lake but the ones that did were usually enhanced, so the fear of her colleague drowning was logical. Cloud handed her the rope attaching a small bell to it. ''If we fall in the water pull us out when you hear the bell.''
No one made a move. She just ordered something for General Sephiroth herself. Inside a part of her already signed the deporting papers. Stepping closer and closer to Ayden, she could feel the ice cracking slightly. Cloud held her breath before she extended her hand, repressing a tremor. ''Slowly now, easy come to-'' before she could finish a hole appeared. Blackwater swallowed him a shout of surprise leaving his lungs. Mind blank, Cloud jumped in the water as well, ignoring distressed voices calling her name.

It was the first time in her life that Sephiroth felt breathless. When the small silhouette disappeared in after the other cadet she couldn't stop her heart from missing a beat. What surprised her was that everyone seemed at loss at the moment, but not her. Interesting indeed, even trying to assert dominance over her. She would keep a closer eye on her, only out of curiosity.
''Grab the rope and prepare to get them out. I will not let them roth in this geyser!''
''Y-yes ma'am''

Chapter Text

For a split second, Cloud felt nothing, just the water lifting her limbs a little. Then the cold enveloped her. She focused on opening her eyes first. It did mostly nothing but it grounded her. She swam deeper praying to all of her known gods that she could find Ayden. Pressure formed in her lungs. The mako shard tied around her neck felt heavy all of the sudden and she could've sworn it glowed faintly. What if I don't find him in time?

Out of nowhere a large body crashed into her, moving along the gentle currents. He didn't seem conscious in any way but Cloud tied the rope around his waist as tightly as she could. Her fingers were frozen already, her lungs burning. Her strengths were already leaving her, but with the last of them, she pulled the rope as hard as she could. Her braid disheveled flowing around. It was hard to keep the air down. There was no tension in the wire. None. They left them to freeze to death, didn't they. Ha, what could she expect?

It glowed again, warm light to comfort her. She wouldn't let go of Ayden to swim back up, even if it meant losing her life. Why? Mostly because she had no reason to. Her mother? Tifa would take care of her, wouldn't she? Cloud closed her eyes letting water enter her lungs drifting to eternal sleep.

They waited a minute before the bells started ringing before starting to pull. It felt like an eternity even for a patient woman like Sephiroth. It was dead weight and that send chills down her spine. No one was swimming, trying to reach back up faster. The group was far away from the cracked ice and yet the gap started expanding towards the margins.

''Fall back, but don't loosen the rope. We don't want to fall in as well.'' With three SOLDIERS they pulled the two in no time, pulling them back on the edge of the geyser. On a close examination, neither one of them was breathing, both tied together and Cloud's arms clenched around the other one's waist.

''Ma'am!'' Issa said before kneeling down and tending to the two. As much as she was a brilliant fighter Sephiroth wasn't much of a healer. ''General, both of them are alive and there seem to be no external injuries.''

''Let us move to a safer place. I do not wish to engage in any more unexpected encounters.'' As those words left her lips a strong vibration shook the mountain. At that moment Sephiroth could have sworn that Cloud's necklace lit up a little. The ice started cracking again but this time not stopping at the safe distance that they determined earlier. She didn't have to utter an order before someone picked the Third up. Sephiroth placed Cloud on her shoulder and they fleed to higher ground. It was a cold cave hidden by large boulders that kept the snow out. The weather was worst than expected, blocking even her senses. Why were they sent out in weather like this? When they will get back she would surely get some explanations from Lazard. Until then she had a team to care for.

They set up a camp, fire materia warming up all around. Someone managed to take Cloud's backpack before leaving. Issa continued to tend to the two changing their damp clothes so that they won't get frost-bites. Around the time everyone got settled next to the fire small chat started to fill the room. ''Got some guts the new girl, doesn't she?'' ''Talking back like that? You bet she will get thrown out?'' they didn't mind hiding their conversation in front of Sephiroth as she didn't care for their discussions anyway, but now she seemed invested in a way and so they couldn't help but ask. ''General what do you think of the newbie? Is she worth it?''

In general that meant 'is she gonna survive ?'. ''She is.'' after a long pause she added, ''Though I have enough of just one hyperactive more solider.'' They exchanged glances. It was rare for Sephiroth to give someone days in this war. Maybe the blonde did have a chance in here and the Seconds, that witnessed her stupidly brave act understood her to resolve.

Cloud felt warm, hearing voices all around her. Opening her eyes she brushed her blonde hair from her face moving her legs to make sure that they didn't freeze. ''Look who's awake! Are you feeling alright?''

''Been worst!'' in front of her appeared Micah, a Third commander. ''At least you have your sense of humor intact after that stunt you pulled. I do have to ask: What the fuck was in your head? Did you have any orders to jump after him?''

''I didn't, sir.''

''Did any of us say that you can move?''

''No, sir.''

''Then why did you jump?'' his tone was even with slight anger in it.

''I panicked, sir.''

''We don't need wimps in this army. Disobey one more order and I will throw you off this mountain. You will receive your punishment when we get back home, for now, focus on your mission.''

''Yes sir!'' punishment, she would get punished! Never in her life did Cloud expect to be happy hearing those words.

''Also a piece of advice'' Akasair, another one of their upperclassmen ''You might want to apologize and maybe ask for mercy from General Sephiroth .''

Apologise for what... Oh Gaia she screamed in Sephiroth's face! Why would.. how isn't she dead by now? The gods were smiling upon her this time. She let her head drop and realized that she was more or less... naked. Involuntarily she blushed.

''Ha! Look at her face! Don't worry kid, we're not some perverts, but I don't think you wanted to get frostbites from that dive. And what a dive really!''

They gave her some food and chatted for a while about her equipment and past as a huntress. She did chose to get back in her own clothes and nobody seemed to have a problem with that. In their oppinion, it suited her better. Micah, who taught her the right way to warm herself with a fire materia without getting fried told her to exchange for guard duty with General Sephiroth.

Outside it was still night, with hints of light blue painting the sky. For a second Cloud closed her eyes and imagined that she was back at home waiting for something good to fall in one of her traps so that she could go back to her mom's house and get some warm food and a big hug. Her mom, huh. It's been almost two years since she left home but not once did she feel so far yet so close to it. The blonde clenched her fist around the fire materia enjoying its warmth.

Not far from there, Sephiroth watched her every move cautiously. There was a weird sensation of relief when she emerged from the cave, her golden locks giving her away. The uniform was gone but it was to be expected. Some of the fabric tore and it wouldn't protect her anymore. Thirds uniforms were really low quality. She could see perfectly through the darkness, aware of the unnatural glow of her eyes. Some things came with advantages and that was one of them. Pink light fell on the pale face, making her silhouette visible for the blonde, who started making her way towards her. She stopped in front of her saluting stiffly.

''Speak, solider!''

''General Sephiroth, I am here to apologize for my behavior! I have been rash and insulted you by speaking out of turn and not listening to your orders. I hope that you can forgive me!''

''Have you never been taught about thinking before acting? You could have died and left our team with a few people. If you don't care about your own life that is none of my problems, but you need to think about the best of the team first. Did I make myself clear?''

''Yes ma'am''

And that was that. Sephiroth stared at her with a cold gaze and surprisingly, the blonde didn't break eye contact not even a second. If she was gonna stay in the cold she might as well have company. Maybe now was the time to try being a little more sociable like Genesis suggested. Well after a situation like yesterday Genesis would've been more than happy to launch a few fireballs towards the cadet, so maybe he wasn't the best example.

''Your uniform?'' it came off as cold and judging, exactly as intended. Sociable didn't mean in any way friendly right?

''It got ripped in some places so I changed in my hiking gear.''

''Why did you bring it along? Did you not have a second uniform to take?''

Cloud looked down at the valley below. She loved watching sunrises after a storm in the mountains.

''I had a hunch... and I feel better in it. I didn't have enough time to modify my uniform to my size.'' Why were they talking like this? Was this torture? Were the gods really smiling at her or just playing a sick joke? She looked up to see the General staring at her with a menacing look. Definitely a joke. The sun started to light up the mountain allowing her to see clearer. Her hair was tied up in a ponytail, Masume's hilt hidden by the silver silk-like strands. Nothing was changed in her appearance other than that. Her skin was pale as always, not even a blush from the cold staining her porcelain figure. They stayed a while like that, enjoying the silence. None of them seemed the chatty type so why bother.

''Hiking gear. Is Neibleheim far from here? I don't remember being there recently so I can not recall correctly.''

''It is. There is not steel sky or this kind of disregard of nature on the behalf of the industry.'' Oh, there it was again, talking like her mother due to nerves. She sounded like an elderly woman from her village, speaking ill of the company the Cloud actually ended up working for. How did she know where she was from. Maybe she looked through her files?

''...''

''Not that Shinra is doing something bad-''

''I see where you are coming from and I do not condemn you. It is true that their methods aren't the best but they are the most efficient.'' Sephiroth jumped down two meters away from Cloud and went towards the cave. ''Keep watch until we leave.''

''Yes ma'am!'' the cold wind was gentle, bringing smells so familiar that it almost made her tear up. Maybe she had a fever. There was no way Sephiroth would just have a conversation with her just like that after yesterday. Right?

They left after a short while and resumed their original path. It was late afternoon when they reached an establishment hidden in between two lower crests. It was mostly deserted, with few guards that didn't take too much effort. They collected some information and burnt down the facility, reclaiming it as Shinra territory again. On the way back, the tense atmosphere disappeared almost completely, Micah and Akahair making fun of her motion sickness for the most part. They landed and Ayden helped sustain her until she regained balance. Sepiroth walked past her and said without glancing back.

''I expect you in my office at 6 a.m. Sharp. As i said, you are yet to receive your punishment. And get a new uniform by then.''

''Yes ma'am!''

The taller woman left without another word, her long hair flowing down like liquid silver. Cloud flopped on the bed as soon as she reached her apartment. It smelt like a shitty detergent and was cold but it was way better than a cave. Warm water seemed like a blessing and her cheap soap bar smelled like home in a way now. Thinking about it now it wasn't actually that bad, taking that dive. Now she didn't feel like a stranger anymore. And it felt good.

Chapter Text

''You might want to start blocking.''

Cloud took a few steps backward, regaining balance. The throbbing pain shooting from her arm was annoying to say the least.

''Shut it Gongaga!''

''Someone's grumpy!''

''Just tired.''

''Then what do you say we stop here for tonight?''

The two started gathering their water bottles and weaponry, placing them back on the shelves. It was the third session of extra training in that week and after cleaning out the monsters from Sector 5 Slums, she was able to just barely drag her feet around the training hall. After returning from the mission, her penalty for acting without orders was roaming the Slums and clearing out monsters, for a month, on her own. At first, it was very tiring and hard, getting back to her apartment covered in blood, goo, and dirt. On one of those days, she met a florist named Aerith. The lovely brunette helped with patching up and talked to her a bit every time they met in Sector 5 or 6.

It made Cloud a little sad that she wouldn't get to meet with Aerith as often since she was finally relieved from that order and could join soldier training again.

''Hey, Cloud? I might need some help or advice or...My partner's birthday is coming up and has no idea what to get them.''

''Boyfriend of the year everyone!''

''I'm not joking! I really need help!''

''And tell me mister 'I want to keep the details of my relationship private' how can I help when I know nothing?''

''Well for starters they are very romantic and dramatic, and they like the color red and cooking, though mostly sweets. He's obsessed with 'Loveless' and-''

''So it's a man?''

''Wh- n no no, forget that!''

''Hmmmm? Ok. Then, why don't you go on a date to the theatre.''

''Already went.''

''A fancy restaurant?''

''Well... i think that would be disappointing.''

''Oh! I know! I passed a jewelry store the other day in Wall Market and they have some interesting stuff. What do you say?''

''I don't know, I'm not that familiar with the Slums and I heard a lot about Wall Market. I don't want to get him a fake you know?''

''Oh, don't worry, I have a friend that can show us around.''

''If you say so, Strife. What do you say about tonight?''

''Meet me in the Sector 5 train station.''

After returning to her room, Cloud texted Aerith and they met in the station. Aerith was her usual dazing self. Her long brown hair was in a simple braid, and she wore a long white dress with a bracer dangling on her hand. It was an unusual sight to see her without her staff but, she had the protection of two soldiers anyway.

''Who would have thought that you would ask me on a date?'' Aerith smiled shyly, looking from underneath her long lashes.

''I told you already this isn't a date!''

''But you want it to be a date!'' That devious smile would be the death of her. She looked to the side trying to hide the blush that started to form.

''Please stop teasing, Zack will be here any minute!''

''Why? I like to see you blush, you are cuter that way. Well, you are cute mostly when you don't try to hit me.'' Zack greeted them and got acquainted with the brunette. Needless to say, they teased Cloud all the way to Wall Market. From there they split up looking around at different vendors, one shadier than the other. At first, Zack was reluctant to leave Aerith all alone wandering the streets, but a quick Thunder bought some sense into Zack.

''Underestimate me Solider and that will be your last mistake.'' she said whit a coy smile.

''Damn, ok i get it. Still it's better than Genesis's Firaga...''

It was nice strolling around and not getting dirty looks, though some people already knew her by now. It wasn't bad actually since word spread around about a SOLDIER who cares about the people from the slums and kills monsters for their safety. Andreea helped her on one of her worst nights when she could barely drag her feet around the Slums. He seemed to remember her from that first night in Honey Bee Inn and actually let her take the stage with him one more time when she got back in one piece. Aerith got mad that time because she didn't get to see her. If she got any time between training, classes, and patrols, the blonde would come down to dance to her heart's content. Only if. But for now, from Zack's indications, his boyfriend seemed similar to Andreea in many ways so a pair of earrings that she saw in a shop around the club.

''Any luck, girls?''

''I got to kick a creep and set his hair on fire, but other than that not much.''

''I didn't get lucky either.. people tend to avoid doing business with SOLDIERS around here.''

''Well I got something, though I don't know if it will fit your sweet heart's tastes. I'll let you be the judge of that.''

The vendor didn't look very pleased when Zack started looking around. Cloud had to reassure him over and over that, they were off duty and couldn't care less about him or his items. Finally, he got around presenting them the pair of earrings that Cloud had been eying for some weeks now. It was a pair of rubins cut in teardrop shape, with golden hooks and golden spirals decorating the upper side of the stones.

''Wow, it looks amazing!''

''I know because i chose them. Do you think he will like it?''

Zack looked between the two with a disappointed look. ''This pair it's very pretty but....''

''For a man a pair like this may not be the right call. But...'' he went behind the counter and came back with an elegant silver ring with a similar bloody stone. ''This is a mako shard from the Northern Crater. It's said to respond in a way like materia, creating a small flame per the wearer's emotions in the said moment.''

''This one is perfect! How much?''

The vendor looked them up and down. ''10000 gil. Oh, don't look at me like that SOLDIER boy! This is a very rare kind of stone, and the craftsmanship is top-notch!''

Cloud was well amused by that statement. She examined the ring and it was indeed very well made, but such a shard was easy to come by. She used to play with them around the house when she was little. That's how she learned slowly about materia wielding. She grinned at the vendor. ''Sir I can find this shard on the side of the road. 10000 is absurd and I understand that there might be rumors about a high paycheck for SOLDIERS, but to tell you the truth, it isn't. And most of your items here are made from mako shards that again are easy to come by. Lying to your customers isn't good for business now, is it? That small flame you talked about, that can appear to materia wielders.'' After that little monologue, the vendor was at loss for words. ''Say why don't we cut that price in half since I appreciate the craftsmanship.''

''5000 gil? I am not selling for that low! 8000.''

''5500''

''Bullshit! 7000''

''6000, and that is the last offer!''

He was mad but in the end, accepted the deal. ''And don't come back! It's bad for the business!''

''Sure old man!'' Cloud screamed, pushing her friends outside trying not to get hit by an incoming blizzard. They were laughing in the middle of the street holding onto the ring.

''You know the guy?''

''Saved him once from some slum rats. He tried to freeze me then also.''

''Wow blondie I didn't know you had it in you. But does this thing really shine or..?''

''It's charged with energy, though it won't replenish on its own. And at most can be used to light cigarettes.'' Aerith touched the crystal briefly before giving it back to Zack.

’’Ok that is really freaky Aerith.’’

’’Aww, when did it get so late? I’m sorry guys but it looks like I have to leave first, or mom will kill me for being late for dinner.’’

’’I’ll take you home.’’ Cloud offered, but the brunette pushed her to Zack’s side. ’’We decided the surprise and the gift but you still have to wrap it in something fancy. I can handle myself, blondie don't worry.’’ She lifted up a sleeve revealing a bracer packed with materia, specifically Fire, Cure and Thunder.

’’Ok fine, but call me when you get home.’’

’’Sure mom! Have fun!’’ She waved them goodbye and left in a hurry, ignoring a drunkard cat-calling her.

’’She’s nice. Do you like her?’’

’’Aerith? No no no, she’s just a friend.’’

’’Sure thing Strife.’’

’’Plus, she is straight. That earlier was just her teasing me.’’

For the rest of the night they planed the surprise and Cloud ended up holding on to the present. Apparently, his boyfriend was very nosey. They returned back to the Shinra tower long after curfew, but the raven-haired snuck them back in through a secret tunnel used by General Hewley usually.

’’Not cool using the tunnels at night Zack!’’

At the end of the hallway a redhead in Turck attire stared at them. It was the same Turck from that night! What frightened her the most is that he seemed to also recognize her.

’’Oh hey Reno! Sorry, but we were running late and I didn’t want to get Cloud into trouble. Strife this is Reno. He is a Turck and a jackass.’’

’’Great introduction yo! Saw you during the Third's exam. To be honest, I would have taken you to be a Turck, but that decision is not up to me. But if you want to join I can always put a good word for you to Tseng.’’

’’I’m good as I am thank you.’’

Oh so that is why he recognized her.

’’Reno don’t snitch on us.

’’Don’t really care.’’

And that was it. He left without a word, blending in with the shadows. Zack assured her that Reno was mostly harmless and too lazy to do anything.

Zack looked up from his phone when he heard the door slam against the wall. It was most likely Genesis who has just returned from his Modeoheim mission, clearly in a bad mood.

’’Hello Genesis!’’ Angeal called from the kitchen.

Zack went to greet his boyfriend with open arms and a kiss.

’’You smell terrible Gen.’’

’’I didn’t get to shower in that shit whole. Three whole weeks with no shower! Out of my way Fair, i need to get this blood off of me.’’

’’Need some help?’’ Zack missed his boyfriends a lot these days since Angeal made it back only a day prior. They will celebrate Genesis’s birthday tomorrow since Sephiroth will get deployed the day after. He messaged Cloud to meet him later tonight to give him the present back. Hopefully, he could sneak out without raising suspicion. He would be damned if he fucked this one up.

’’Zack, give the man privacy!’’

’’Maybe I don’t want privacy.’ The redhead said with a flirtatious smile, placing a small kiss on Zack’s lips before going towards Angeal. ’’But I need a shower first and only a shower.’’

’’Zack get your ass here and help me set the table. If you break one of my glasses I am going to slice you in half.’’

’’It was only once for Gaia’s sake!’’

Genesis was grateful for the warm water running down his back, erasing the blood from his skin, dirt, and bad memories of the battlefield. At least for the moment. He lost some of his trusted friends in an ambush. Even after killing every last wutaian soldier, he wasn’t able to bring back the people that he lost.

’’This is war Genesis, get over yourself.’’ He said to himself in a weak voice. ’’You lead people to their deaths every day, this is nothing special.’’ But it was. His squad leader was dead and so was his right-hand man. He had to pick someone new. To replace a person with another. Sweet apple scent filled the bathroom when he started massaging his scalp with the expensive shampoo that he loved so much. Little things like this, his boyfriends that wait for him to come home alive, their friend Sephiroth, they were a good enough reason to keep fighting.

After drying his hair he got dressed in a loose shirt and a pair of jeans. In the mirror, there was his ashen reflection like it was every time he returned home. When he entered the dining area, Angeal and Zack were done setting up the table.

’’It smells incredible, darling.’’

’’This time, Zack helped as well.’’

Genesis looked them up and down, then took a seat next to the window. ’’Now I am concerned.’’

’’If you don’t want it I can always eat it, but after I put so much work into helping Ange...’’He pouted at the older man.

’’Don’t worry, he only took care of the cutting. I’m not making that mistake again. So, how was Modeoheim?’’

Genesis looked away and took a sip of wine. ’’We got into an ambush and I lost almost half of my men. I don’t want to talk about it now. Ask Sephiroth for the report if you are curious.’’

’’It’s ok i get it. Let’s not talk about work then.’’

’’The only thing I want to worry about is my birthday tomorrow.’’

Zack looked at him with a surprised look. ’’Was that tomorrow?’’

’’Fair if you forgot about my birthday I am going to burn you to a crisp.’’

’’Joking, joking just joking. Gaia, Gen learn to take a joke.’’

’’You did forget about mine once though.’’ Angeal spoke.

’’That was so long ago, why are you still salty about it?’’

’’Maybe because that time you forgot about it you were hooking up with that accountant-’’

’’OK i get it! I couldn’t forget Gen, plus I have a surprise for you!’’

'’That’s new.’’ The redhead looked over to his other partner who simply shrugged. They enjoyed the rest of the meal, listening to Zack bitch about Reno and some other Second Class. Surprisingly, he also offered to do the dishes while the two of them went to pick a movie to watch.

’’Are you sure you are fine? I know you don’t want to talk about it now, but if you want to call off tomorrow, we could.’’

’’It’s really ok, dear, I’m used to it by now, I was just ... I have to find a new squad leader by the way. I would appreciate some recommendations.’’

’’Later.’’ Angeal cupped his cheeks gently and pulled him in a soft kiss, putting his arms around the slender waist. It was comforting and warm. Exactly what he needed now. ’’What you said earlier to Zack.. are you still suspicious of him or?’’

’’I think I may have overreacted a bit-’’ He was cut off by the absence of sounds coming from the kitchen or footsteps. Angeal seemed to notice as well. ’’Zack?’’

There was no answer, the house empty.

’’You don’t think?’’

’’He forgot his phone. One way to find out.’’

’’Genesis no, you are not looking in his phone, that is an invasion of privacy.’’

’’I’ll just...’’ He would never read his boyfriend's texts, that was a mistake that he would never repeat, he just wanted to see that last notification. Angeal watched from the side with a disappointed look. He would apologize to Zack later, but he needed to be confirmed that his insecurities were just in his head. His heart sank when he saw <>

His vision darkened for a second. That lying bastard!’’ Genesis, what is it?’’ Angeal spoke softly, placing a hand on his shoulder.

’’I was right Ange, and he is meeting with them right now. I will kill him!’’

’’Let’s go after him. He surely can explain.’’

''Don't you trust me Ange?''

’’I do Gen, I do! But I also trust him. There must be an explanation.’’

Cloud was lost in thought when Zack arrived. When her friend was out of Midgar or couldn’t help her train, she would spend her time practicing with materia. But somehow she could never do more than a Fire. Aerith tried to teach her but the brunette was casting more based on instinct. It wasn’t controlled that she lacked though, from what Aerith said.

’’Hey Cloud!’’

’’You are late. I was debating over burning your door or not. I have other things to do other than waiting on you.’’

’’Other things like failing at casting?’’ He pointed at the fire materia she was holding. A soft glow came from it.’’ Sorry about being late. Did you bring it?’’

’’Yeah, here. But you still have to give me the money for Aerith. Those flowers cost money you know!’’

’’Ah wait, I forgot my wallet inside, let me grab it.’’

’’You cheating little bastard!’’ From the end of the hallway, General Rhapsodos glared at Cloud with killing intent. Before she could say anything, a Firaga was launched at her. Without thinking she raised the materia and cast as well hoping to soften the blow. Her body slammed into the wall with great force knocking all of the air from her lungs.

’’Genesis! You can’t fire at civilians.’’ She could hear a deep voice somewhere in front.

’’Hell if i care! Zackary Fair you are a shameless disgusting manwhore. You dare cheat on us? And meet with your little bitch right before my birthday? Was this your surprise? Because I for sure did not expect this!’’ he spat the words out like venom. Finally, Cloud was able to get up on her feet focusing on the conversation. <> Then it clicked. Zack was in the same spot as before, shocked. She drew a sharp breath.

’’Fair you are the biggest idiot I have ever seen... Sir! I don’t understand what you are talking about, but if you are implying that I am dating Lt. Fair then you are wrong.’’ She saluted stiffly.

’’Shit, Cloud you ok?’’ He snapped out of it and came to check on her. ’’And what are you talking about Genesis? When did I cheat on you?’’

’’Do you think I am stupid? Do you think I wouldn’t notice you leaving in the middle of the night to meet with her?’’

Angeal watched the exchange without commenting. He was sure Zack mentioned the name Cloud in a conversation before, but he couldn’t remember exactly when.

’’You followed me?’’

’’I am not the proudest about that but it seems that i had all the reasons to have done what did.’’

’’No you didn’t! I’m not meeting with Cloud at night because I am cheating on you and if you would have asked me before I would have explained!’’ His voice was trembling.

’’I say we take this somewhere private. I don’t want the whole tower to know about this.’’ At this moment Angeal was sure that Zack wasn’t lying, but it seemed that Genesis needed more convincing. He gestured towards the smaller Second apartment, pushing Genesis inside. ''Cloud you come as well to clear this out and get you healed.''

''Cloud can you stand?''

''I am going to kill you one of these days Fair. You better sleep with an eye open after this.'' He closed the door after she flopped in the only chair outside the couch where General Rhapsodos seemed to be planing murderer. Zack returned with a fully mastered Cure materia and handed it to her.

''Here.''

''Thanks.''

''First of all, mind telling us who you are?''

''Cloud Strife, junior Third Class, division 12 squad C.''

''Remember when I told you a woman made it in the program? I was talking about Cloud. The reason I'm sneaking out at night is to help her train.'' Genesis was quiet, mulling over the explanation. With materia in hand, she really wanted to heal, but until now Cloud has been practicing spells and she was worn out.

''Then it's a misunderstanding on our part.''

''Then when I caught you first time sneaking out, you were just sparring?''

''When was that?''

''Right before i got deployed.''

''Yeah, i remember...''

''May i ask a question?''

''Sure thing blondie.'' spat Genesis.

''Just to clarify things... Zack, you are in a relationship with General Hewley and Rhapsodos.''

''Yes.''

''And instead of spending time with your boyfriends you would help me train...''

''Sometimes yes.''

''Please excuse my language, but are you a fucking moron?''

''Not you too..''

''Not me too? I thought that you could help me because you didn't specify who your partner was! Are you stupid!?'' She threw the pillow straight to Zack's face.

''What was that for?''

''Being an idiot!'' She groaned holding her right hand, a red burn covering her whole forearm.

''At least heal yourself before scholding me!''

''Heal me yourself! I told you that I was training before, I can't cast anymore.'' Genesis sighed deeply while Angeal chuckled a bit. Oh, the generals were still there... the generals were still there and she just screamed at their partner that he was a shitty boyfriend.

''Hand that to me blondie.'' Cloud gave the materia to the Red General, somewhat fearful. ''Relax cadet I won't try to set you again on fire, for now.'' A pleasant tingly sensation crawled under her skin, dispelling the pain. In a few seconds, the burn was gone, leaving no trace behind. ''But I am curious as to why did you two meet tonight.'' The dizziness went away and she was able to stand and recover the pillow thrown earlier.

''I had to give the present back to Zack since he asked me to keep it for the time being.''

''Cloud helped pick it for you... I'm sorry that I didn't tell you about this.''

''It's ok Zack, why did you hide it anyway?''

''Well... you always talk about focusing on my training and I thought you would get mad... sorry guys.''

''It is true that your training is a priority.''

''Sir please, I was the one that asked Zack for help. I am sorry for this misunderstanding and for the unnecessary fight between you. I apologize.''

''Ange can i please keep helping Cloud? Please? I promise I won't fall behind my studies and-'' Genesis waved him to stop with a wide grin on his face. Angeal smiled warmly towards his student and then to Cloud.

''I will allow it. I don't see any problem with it.''

''I see. We should also examine Cloud from time to time, shouldn't we? Since Zack is teaching her the same things you teach him, wouldn't this be a perfect exercise for him? After all, you learn the best when you teach others.'' Genesis got closer to the blonde, looking down on her. ''But that would also mean that you will suffer some consequences if you do not raise to our expectations.''

Cloud was stunned. Shinra's two top generals were going to evaluate her to see her progress. It was, of course, meant as a punishment for Zack, but she couldn't help but be thrilled about this. ''I will do my best, sir! I hope not to disappoint and waste your time.''

He appeared to be pleased by that answer. ''And another thing, cadet Strife. I expect you to keep quiet about what you have learned tonight. I suppose you want to keep your head on your shoulders, don't you?''

''Genesis stop trying to scare her off. We like to keep our relationship secret, but we can't help it now.'' Angeal was surprisingly nice? He expected all the generals to be more or less like Genesis. ''I do have to agree with him on the evaluation part. It will benefit you both.''

''I think i should go... I apologise again for the misunderstanding.''

''You don't have to.''

''I'll take you to your apartment. I don't want you passing out on the corridor. I'll see you guys upstairs?''

''I still have a movie to choose.''

''Sir! And i apologise again.''

Zack and Cloud took the lift down, staying in blessed silence.

''I wasn't joking about killing you.''

''Sure Strife. I'm sorry about that Firaga though. You took it like a pro, nice moves.''

''I prefer not to get burned on a Tuesday night. You still have to give me the money.''

''Yeah, here.''

When the doors opened, Cloud jumped out of the elevator and smirked at Zack. ''Good luck tomorrow Fair, and happy birthday to the general by the way!''

The next morning Genesis woke up to his apartment being filled with delicate red roses. Cloud had to carry all the flowers from the Slums back to the Shinra tower. Angeal was kind enough to lend her another cadet to help with the delivery. Aerith wasn't that happy with the other guy that tagged along, but they got the job done. Zack was of course in debt to her now. She would never stop teasing him about his poor judgment, but she got to meet the two generals of Shinra. The next day was good regardless of how tired she felt.

Chapter Text

It was still weird having Zack around most of the time. It was nice, just like having a brother, but tiring. Some of his stuff ended up in her apartment like clothes and alcohol that he hides from Angeal. She was sore from the helicopter ride back from Kalm. In the last mission, they had to catch some wutaian spies before they could report back to their undiscovered base. That was the first time Cloud had to kill a person since joining the army. In the past mission the base they were tasked with raiding, was empty by the time they got there. It made her sick seeing dead bodies around her, blood painting the ground, and that dreadful smell. Alone again in the safety of her room she could finally allow herself to cry. There was blood under her nails, but she didn't have the energy to get rid of it. Maybe later, after she would have already stopped puking her guts out remembering that scent.

Zack texted her a few times asking if she wanted company or just someone to talk to, but she couldn't bother to answer his messages for a few hours. That made him anxious and he ended up bringing Cloud a peace offering when she almost stabbed him with the newly acquired knife. Keeping items from enemies isn't prohibited and most cadets have a souvenir from their first mission, for example, Zack has a necklace. He even admitted to wearing it from time to time in the battle for good luck.

''So do you want to talk about it?''

''Not really.'' She didn't look up from where she was sewing her uniform. It got a few cuts here and there matching the bandages on her body.

''Take a shower and I'll bring you some food.''

''Don't need it.''

''I see your hands trembling you know?''

She set the thread and needle down and covered her face in the dirty material. The raven-haired sat beside her and placed a hand on her head stroking her hair softly. They stayed like that, Cloud crying quietly and Zack waiting patiently. Finally, the blonde broke the silence leaning onto Zack slightly.

''I killed a person today...''

''Oh...''

''I looked them in the eyes when I did it. They didn't fear death, they were almost challenging me until the end.''

''Wutai soldiers are prideful.''

''I'm pathetic right? The other guys seemed thrilled to kill someone, but I just... it feels wrong. Why am I crying? I should have been prepared for this! We are in a war I-'' she started shouting at herself.

''Take deep breaths.'' Only now did she notice that she started hyperventilating. It took her a few more minutes to calm down completely. Zack reassured her over and over, telling her that everyone gets like that, that it's not wrong to feel emotions. Taking his advice, Cloud showered hoping that the cold water would wash away the numbness, but it didn't. As much as she enjoyed Zack's presence, she asked him to leave shortly after.

The blood was out from under her nails. The blonde fell into a dreamless sleep, and when she woke up it was already dark outside. She was hungry but the cafeteria was closed, and Zack most likely was having dinner with his partners. She fixed her hair, making a simple braid. Maybe training will help a little. When she was ready to head out the door, her PSH started ringing.

ZACK: Hey blondie, how are you feeling?

CLOUD: Ya I'm better. I was heading for the gym. What's up?

ZACK: I forgot my wallet at your place earlier. Mind bringing it?

CLOUD: Sometimes I wonder how you became a SOLDIER.

ZACK: Thanks shorty.

He hung up. Might as well take some food from his fridge while she was there. The wallet was empty anyways why did he want her to bring it up? She knocked on the door.

''You have legs on your own Fair why not-'' She froze, staring at the taller redhead who was smirking at her.

''Well, that was awfully cold.''

''S-Sir, good evening! I apologize! I was- I mean Zack-''

''Genesis drop that you are scaring her!'' Zack approached with an apologetic smile, scratching the back of his head. ''I knew that you wouldn't agree to have dinner with us otherwise so...''

Genesis stepped out of the frame allowing Cloud to enter. She had been inside Zack's apartment before. It wasn't anything spectacular, but bigger than hers. It had a bigger kitchen and a living room connected to it.

Cloud stuck to Zack’s side, matching his pace. He looked back giving her an encouraging smile. Genesis disappeared in the bedroom mumbling about Zack's weird taste in friends. The kitchen was busier than most of the times Cloud came to visit. For once it was used for something else than just boiling water for coffee. If Cloud could move around without problem, Angeal seemed to have a hard time fitting underneath the kitchen cabinet to cut some vegetables. The raven-haired settled on the countertop watching his boyfriend struggle not to hit his head or shoulders.

’’Angeal said he wanted to try some kind of stew. Hey Cloud, didn’t you say you knew how to cook? Why don’t you help Ange?’’

’’Why don’t you?’’ She approached the older man picking up the discarded knife when he left to add some basil in one of the pans. Finally having something to do with her hands she didn’t feel as anxious.

’’I am forbidden from using the kitchen, at least when these two are around.’’ He smiled sheepishly.

Angeal smiled thanking the blonde quietly, placing his entire attention on preparing the meat. His motions were swiftly cutting it in even cubes, much like Cloud was doing now with some potatoes.

’’Once, before we got together, we were having a cookout, me, Gen and Sephiroth, and I decided that bringing my student would benefit him. He managed to burn the food so bad that Genesis had to stay with me for a week for the smell to disappear fully.’’

The redhead joined them, bringing one of the chairs from the table. ’’Not only that, but the smell was so bad made Sephiroth’s eyes water. That was the closest I saw that woman cry since I met her. Needless to say, I despised him for a while.’’

’’Enough with the slander!’’ Cloud giggled and passed the cut vegetables to Angeal. She picked up some onions, starting to cut them.

’’Now I feel better that you didn’t come to cook with me and Aerith. If you would have burnt Elmira’s kitchen down, we would have been six feet underground already.'' Genesis gave her a pointed look that almost caused Cloud to cut her finger off, and her friend seemed to notice.

’’Genesis, come, let’s choose the movie!’’

’’Take care of that yourself.’’

’’I don’t want to hear you complaining later about my ’poor taste’. ’’ The redhead groaned, but he still followed his younger lover in the bedroom. Cloud found a comfortable rhythm cutting and adding to the pot. The two worked in silence for a little while.

’’I see that you weren’t aware of Zack’s wish to dine with us.’’

’’No sir, I wasn’t. He asked me to drop by and bring his wallet before I went to train.’’

’’He should have told you. You don’t have to stay if you don’t enjoy our company.’’ Then he must have noticed her tense shoulders and lost gaze. The problem was that it wasn’t from their presence or the sudden change of plans.

’’That’s not the case, sir. If anything, it feels comforting to cook with someone. I used to do this with my mom every Sunday night.’’

’’I learned to cook from my mother as well, Genesis too. He would sneak out and come help my mom with the banoran apple pie. Of course, he would eat some of my shares as well. And please drop the sir, I get sick from hearing it all day at work.’’

''Yes, si- I mean... '' Angeal smiled again. The difference between the Black General and Zack's lover was astounding. After some time Genesis and Zack came back arguing about the movie choice. There was a knock on the door but no one seemed interested in going.

''Cloud go answer the door!'' Zack spoke, helping Genesis to set the table.

''It's your apartment!''

''And I have my hands full!'' She washed her hands then rushed to answer the door. A pair of bright green eyes was pinning her in place. A cold shiver went down her spine as Sephiroth's eyes narrowed.

''Cadet?'' Her voice was hoarse from exhaustion. ''What are you doing here?''

''I- Lt. Fair invited me to join him and the generals to dinner...''

''Is that so? Then allow me to enter since I am here for that same reason.'' Cloud stepped aside, murmuring an apology. It was odd seeing General Sephiroth without her battle garments. The tall boots weren't missing, but she took them off and placed them neatly alongside the other pairs of shoes. The other three were already seated, leaving Cloud in between the Silver General and Angeal. She met Zack's eyes with a murdering gaze from across the table.

''Don't you look like shit?'' Genesis grinned at the newcomer offering a glass of red wine.

''I don't want to hear that from you. How was Modeoheim?''

''Terrible as always. It's almost like the people there don't like me or something?''

''I can see why.''

''Watch your mouth pup! Why do you appoint me there anyway?''

''So what did you cook Angeal?''

''I hate you when you do that.''

''Cloud helped me with a new stew recipe i found in my last mission.''

Sephiroth didn't say anything, but quirked her brow just slightly and took another sip from the glass of wine. They proceeded to eat in a pleasant but heavy silence. This was obviously a gathering between friends, close friends, where they could freely discuss anything that bothered them, especially from work. But with Cloud there they were stuck with surface-level small talk, and it was more annoying for Cloud. After they had finished she offered to do the dishes while they settled in for the movie. Surely enough a lively conversation started right after she reached the kitchen, but it didn't bother her. She stalled at much as she could to give them privacy to discuss whatever they wanted, but in the end, she returned with a plate with cookies.

Zack and his boyfriends occupied the couch, while Sephiroth was sitting elegantly on the only armchair. ''Thanks a lot, Cloud!'' She took one of the discarded pillows and sat crosslegged on the ground, next to Sephiroth.

''This reminds me, we will come and evaluate you two soon. I hope you didn't forget about our agreement.'' Genesis smirked behind the cookie. Zack went pale looking in Cloud's direction.

''What agreement are you talking about?'' The Silver General leaned to take one of the pastries, a few strands of silver hair falling over her shoulder. Genesis explained their previous encounter and how Cloud got to know their secret.

''And here I thought that a month clearing out the slums will take care of that foul mouth of yours. I suppose that I underestimated your stubbornness.'' Those green eyes looked down on her once more with a glint of amusement. The blonde didn't break eye contact why asking ''Then, should I apologize again, ma'am?''

''No.'' There was a brief pause before she spoke again in a more friendly tone. ''I don't understand if you are stupid or have a death wish.''

''Well, this is also news to me. How come you got to spend an entire month in the slums. The average is two weeks, three at most. What did you do?'' The silver-haired's attention diverted towards the screen, seemingly losing interest in the conversation, while Genesis and Zack turned to her.

''I told you, Zack, I acted without orders.''

''That's too vague. I want more details!''

''...''

''The movie is starting,'' Angeal announced sparing her from embarrassing herself any longer. It was an older movie, but the plot seemed familiar. Turns out it was a book that she had read a few years ago. This adaptation wasn't brilliant, but the book wasn't either. A pleasant warmth hugged her body, washing away the tears and spilled blood from earlier. For now, at least Cloud could drift into a dreamless sleep. She woke up the next morning with a text message from Zack. He had carried her back to allow her to sleep and even left some food on the table.

Chapter Text

Reno's clothes were covered again in ashes and blood. The intense blood scent persistently followed him and his partner back through the secret corridors beneath the Shinra Tower. He was quiet, something that didn't happen often. Next to him, Rude's steps seemed a little uncertain, so the red-head matched his pace. Luckily none of them had serious injuries, just a lot of bruises and scratches. Hunting failed experiments became the norm. Some of the other Turks started looking down on them for being stuck with such a trivial task since no one knew how strong their opponents were.

''Say Rude, why do you think boss called us back?'' his voice sounded weak.

''Something to do with the rookies.'' The taller man pressed the button corresponding to the highest floor from the tower. The only elevator that had access to every floor was reserved only for the Turk executive and his suit, the three Generals, and of course Rufus Shinra. Not even the President had access here or knew about it.

''If I have to go after another crab-octopus-slime-solider-thing, I will not hesitate to choke Hojo to death.''
''Careful with your statements.'' He lowered his voice. ''Don't forget where you are.'' The doors opened behind a bookshelf in Rufus's office. It was slightly smaller than his father's, missing the imposing stairs and long hallway.

Tseng sat patiently next to Rufus while he signed some papers. Confidential papers it seems. The two didn't bother to acknowledge their presence until a few minutes later. Tseng watched them closely evaluating their wounds from afar. ''The mission?''

''Completed.''

''I expect your report on my desk tomorrow.''

''Boss how long do we have to play assistant for Hojo?'' A pair of ice-blue eyes glared in Reno's direction.

''However long necessary. My father funds these experiments disregarding my input.'' He sighed deeply and the two Turks relaxed. ''Have you found anything?''

''Aside from overworked scientists on the verge of insanity nothing else. Those people need a raise.'' The blond handed them ten pictures of some new SOLDIER recruits.

''Make them disappear and bring them into Hojo's lab by the end of the week. If this continues we will lose more of our fighting force than we can afford. You may leave now.''

This time they left through the front door. Some other Turks entered his office looking half dead. Rufus Shinra was powerful enough with the whole Turk organization helping him, but thinking about his strength after inheriting Sinra as a whole sent shivers of excitement down Reno's spine. Rude read the full description of their targets before going to sleep. Poor kids will be at Hojo's mercy by the end of the week.

Cloud tried to stay calm throughout the last class of the day, almost sprinting back to her room. Tonight was her big show at Honey Bee Inn, where she would become an official VIP dancer that could come and go as wanted, performing shows when she wanted and receiving 10% of that show's income. It may seem like a low paycheck but any kind of income was more than welcome, plus the amount of money that some people would spend there was outrageous. She took a shower, combing through her hair to make sure it wasn't tangled. She told Andreea about her program so she would cut it pretty close with dressing and doing her makeup at the club. She packed another set of clothes just in case. Cloud tried to stay calm throughout the last class of the day, almost sprinting back to her room. Tonight was her big show at Honey Bee Inn, where she would become an official VIP dancer that could come and there was a knock on the door.

''Hey Cloud, it's me!''

She took her bag and keys and closed the door behind her before acknowledging her friend's presence. ''What do you want Fair?''

''And where are you going?''

''Out and I'm going to be back late. If you want to drink tonight go to Reno's.''

''OH? A date? Dressed like that... I may be wrong but you do you. I wanted to ask you about a good place for a date, but a more private place. Gen got back from a mission yesterday and I want to take him out tonight but I don't know where.''

''Now you come to ask me? I'm running late Zack, figure it out on your own. Private places are under the plate!'' She shouted over her shoulder before taking the elevator down. The sun was down already when she got in Wall Market. She knew some of the vendors already and they knew her as Andreea's friend, which was a high position to have. Some were speculating that this new dancer was his new lover whom he loved to show off. None of that was true but it made more people come to see their shows so none of them bothered to correct anyone.

The blonde entered through the main entrance rushing past the Honey-host, mouthing a quick greeting. People started to gather in the main hall, gravitating towards the scene filled with Dancer-bees. Some of her knew some were keeping their distance from her and some were new. Making her way backstage she met Andreea's friendly gaze.

''Took you long enough!'' He wore the same costume from that first night she came here, the material hugging his toned body. His moves were as elegant as ever, leading her to their shared dressing room. A black costume was laid on the couch. It was a bold piece but not the worst that she wore so far. The blacktop covered with small crystals resembled the starry sky, with the detached flowy azure sleeves that followed Cloud's every move. The bottom part consisted of a pair of black shorts hidden by the same material that hung around her waist. The hairpiece wasn't as flashy, but it matched the bracelets on her hands. Andreea helped her with the makeup and hair, telling Cloud how their number is going to go.

''Are you ready Cloud?'' While she got dressed, Andreea found a matching suit and he put on some blue and black eyeshadow. There weren't any dancers backstage as they started the first number some time ago.

It wasn't the first time she got to dance here and surely it won't be the last, but she was nervous. The taller man squeezed her hand as they walked on the scene. The beat suddenly dropped and the lights dimmed.

Sephiroth watched from the VIP section the spectacle unraveling. A lot of customers came tonight, filling the main hall. One of the hostesses returned with her beverage, setting it on the small table.

''Miss I have to apologize, but another VIP client will be joining you tonight. I hope you can still enjoy yourself under these circumstances.''

''Oh, I'm sure she won't mind!'' Genesis's slurry tone came from behind the curtain, followed soon after by him. Zack was accompanying him, both of them wearing business casual.

''Hello to you too, Genesis, Zack. Are you out on a date?'' It was indeed an unusual setting for a romantic outing.

''Well if someone didn't forget to pick a place beforehand we settled to come here. What about you?''

''I finished the paperwork early and Scarlet had other plans tonight. I didn't imagine that Honey Bee Inn wouldn't have enough space even in the VIP section.''

''One of Andreea Rhodea's acquaintances is joining the VIP dancers, so they are putting on this show.'' The red-head sipped some champagne before asking Zack to settle down on one of the armchairs. Of course, he chose to stay on his lover's lap. ''I heard that this mysterious lady comes and goes as she pleases, never participates in more 'private' services, and is also Andreea's dear friend. It's about to start.''

The lights dimmed immersing the spectators in darkness. All the other dancers left the scene, while the pair in question sneaked around in the shadows.

''Ladies!'' Two lights turned on from behind Andreea. ''Gentlemen!'' Another two followed revealing an elegant silhouette. ''And every one that falls in between! I am overjoyed to present my new dance partner and a dear friend of mine. You may call her Lady C.!'' Music started playing and the scene was finally illuminated enough to see the two. Next to the infamous dancer, a blonde dressed in black began seductively twirling around him.

Next to Sephiroth, Zack jumped out of Genesis's lap, bolting to the edge of the balcony. ''No fucking way...''

''What is it, dearest?'' Genesis seemed a little bored, not paying attention to the show before. ''Is that woman that intere-'' He stopped mid-sentence a shit-eating grin appearing on his face. ''Well, well who would have thought?'' Sephiroth noticed as well. It was the same blonde she saw months ago in this same club, the same she met in the Shinra Tower, and the same woman who screamed in her face on a freezing mountain. Her hips swayed left and right with the rhythm, led by the music and her partner.

Her fiery friend settled back enjoying the performance pulling Zack back to his lap. ''That is indeed unexpected. Pup, do you know anything about this?''

''Cloud told me she was going out tonight, nothing more. Aerith is going to kill her for not inviting her tonight.'' The song ended, followed by another with a faster rhythm. Another few pairs joined the stage in similar black outfits, maintaining some of the bee themes. For the duration of the next two songs, Sephiroth watched carefully, admiring the younger cadet. Her steps were precise full of confidence, wearing a wide smile for the audience. Sometime after the fifth song, the pair disappeared most likely backstage to take a break.

''Why don't we pay a visit to Andreea and his new 'friend'?'' Genesis looked over to the silver-haired woman noticing her slightly dilated pupils. Interesting. ''After all this kind of behavior gives SOLIDER a bad reputation.''

The staff members didn't dare to approach them, after all, Genesis was also a good friend of Andreea's. He was Genesis's informer when it came to illegal activity down in the Slums. Not that he did anything about it unless it was truly a despicable group. This was mostly for building connections in case ... well, the red-head tried not to go that far. Soon enough the three SOLDIERS reached Andreea's changing room. A soft voice came from inside, then a loud thud. Genesis knocked on the door and Cloud answered it still in her dress, but lacking the make-up.

''I can't ...'' The blonde stepped back and flopped in the nearest seat while Andreea greeted their guests. ''Why? Gods do you have to punish me like this?''

''Aren't you being a little dramatic? It just so happened that I and Zack went out for a date and found Sephiroth enjoying a drink here also.'' Genesis invited himself in followed closely by Zack. The silver-haired woman stepped in with a stern look on her face. Cloud snapped back up offering a salute to both of the generals, glaring at both Andreea and Zack.

''You said that the VIP spots were full?'' that still would mean that Sephiroth would have watched her performance, but at least she wouldn't have confronted her in the same night.

''I didn't lie about that. But how was I supposed to refuse the two top Shinra Generals?''

''Aww come on blondie, how come I wasn't invited? As your best friend I feel-''

''Don't get so butthurt you could have come to the next.''

''Cadet, I hope you understand that such behavior reflects badly upon the Shinra image. Such a display is not to be accepted.'' Sephiroth spoke coldly, not fully paying attention to their discussion.

''Cloud I have to go back on stage, can you handle it?'' Andreea whispered hoping that their fine SOLDIER hearing won't pick it up.

''Yeah, yeah go. I'll join you later.'' She closed the door behind him, taking a few deep breaths. Behind her were two of the Shinra generals, specifically Sephiroth who did not approve of her hobby. Can she get expelled from SOLDIER for something like this? Maybe not. Hopefully not!

''Am I in trouble?''

''Yes.''

''No.'' Genesis looked over to Sephiroth before approaching the blonde. ''As much as a hardass Sephiroth is trying to seem right now, no there is no reason for you to be in trouble. From what I can tell you haven't made it public that you are from SOLDIER, didn't reveal your name or information that could directly link to Shinra so.... no. But that doesn't mean you won't get in trouble if I don't get notified whenever you have a show. Zack, let's go back!'' Her friend smiled apologetically, then followed his boyfriend closing the door. Cloud couldn't help but stare at Sephiroth. Why did she stay behind?

''General-''

''I paid good money to see you. Show me that you are worth my time.'' The silver-haired stepped a little closer towering over Cloud, her green eyes glistening with something that made her skin crawl. Her heart was racing and some sick part of her mind hope that the General heard it. Whether she did or not, Sephiroth backed away, leaving Cloud alone to prepare for her next appearance.

Looking in the mirror she could see the blush in her cheeks. At least her make-up didn't need fixing, because she couldn't have trusted her hands to do anything with the way they were shaking now. Sephiroth smelled like jasmine and blood. That singular thought got her through the night, sometimes catching a pair of green eyes piercing through the darkness. By the end of the show, she was tired, sweaty, and anxious. Genesis and Zack offered to give her a ride back to the tower making sure to avoid most people. Zack explained that Sephiroth had to go back sometime during the performance, but was mostly entertained by her. A pleasant warmth pooled up in her chest hearing those words. She must be worth something to Sephiroth then.

Chapter Text

Cloud took a deep breath, focusing on the pulsing orb of fire materia in her hand. A small flame lit in her palm, spreading a pleasant warmth. Eyes set on the target, the image of the target engulfed in flames forming in her mind as per Genesis’s instructions. The image became reality a fira reaching its target. Truthfully it wasn’t all that impressive, advancing only a level in casting in three months, but for now, it was enough. At least that is what she told herself until now every time she got turned down by her squadron leaders. no one was interested in putting her on the lists for enhancements injections, so she ended up being the last unenhanced. Cloud drew a sharp breath, calming the restless energy in her body.

But that didn’t matter now. Genesis and Angeal were coming over to valuate her grasp on
materia. The training hall was empty. It would have been weird for someone to be here so late at night after all. She put the mannequin away preparing another at a longer distance than before. Stamina is what she is lacking. Magic stamina per se. Another fira hit the target, draining her energy with it. Five fira and one fire, that’s her limit for now. Good enough for tonight but still there is room for improvement. She cleaned up the targets and sat down to take a break. It was already midnight and they still weren’t here.

CLOUD: Where are you?

ZACK: Sorry spike, Gen got caught up in paperwork and I went back to the apartment to fetch some documents for him. We’ll be there soon don’t worry. Angeal will be there first.
At least she had more time to relax. One of the surprising tips that both Genesis and Aerith gave her was to meditate. It helped her a lot to manage her magic energy and regenerate it faster.

Fifteen minutes may have passed before she heard footsteps from the hallway, but she didn’t bother to get up. They were late after all. But there were too many footsteps and it set her off too late. At the door, Shay and some of his friends were looking around the room. It was known that Cloud trained with Zack, but nobody knew about her weird friendship with the Firsts.

’’This one is used, go to the other gym.’’ The materia lingered in her hand.

’’Used by who?’’

’’So you aren’t stupid but blind? By me of course!’’

’’Scram whore! This is for SOLIDERs to train, not for you to suck Lt. Fair off!’’ another snapped.

Five, five enhanced men were closing in on her and she had energy for just 2 fira.

’’Fair you better move your ass down here fast.’’ She whispered to herself.

’’Why do I have to come?’’

’’Because Gen and Zack will be late and I’m sure Cloud will combust if we make her wait any longer. Also, you have nothing better to do than polish Masume. Again.’’ Angeal smiled back at her. The blonde cadet became a strange addition to their small group at Zack’s request. She was pleasant company most of the time, and since the incident from Honey Bee Inn, she has been less intimidated by Sephiroth. Angeal came knocking on her door, asking if she wanted to assist with their ’evaluation’. The two generals praised Cloud before for her quick learning ability, so the silver-haired woman naturally got interested.

They reached the lowest levels where the training grounds were. From what she understood, Zack and Cloud met late at night to train alone, but it seemed like someone else passed by. A strange scent of blood made it obvious that something was wrong, the two of them rushing into the gym. It wasn’t an unusual sight for her, a bloody body, laying on the cold concrete, and yet seeing the familiar blonde hair, was a gruesome view. Her clothes draped ripped apart on her body, covering some of the wounds.

’’Cloud! Cloud can you hear me?’’ Angeal took her pulse, sighing in relief seeing her chest rise in an uneven rhythm. Sephiroth could barely contain her anger. A trail of blood was escaping from her parting lips. She probably bit them to stop her from screaming when they carved the word: ’’SOLIDER’’ in her back. Some other cuts and bruises painted her torso a muddy red color. Not even on the battlefield, no one dared to do such a thing to their enemies, but here... here in the city she so fearlessly fought to protect-

’’Seph she’s losing blood quickly, let’s get her somewhere else!’’ Angeal went first, making sure nobody was in the hallway. He would have offered to carry the poor girl, but Sephiroth seemed eager to rip apart anyone who dared to touch her. He quickly dialed Genesis’s number, following the silver-haired woman to her apartment.

’’I know, we’re late but-’’

’’Come to Seph’s as quickly as you can.’’

He went to check up on Sephiroth and help with first aid, witnessing his friend gently cleaning the blood off Cloud with a slightly pained expression on her face. Genesis was right yet again.

Cloud woke up, the disgusting laughter of her attackers still ringing in her ears. Her limbs felt heavy, head-spinning when she pushed herself up. Dizziness, and dull pain in her back almost made her choke. Someone must have healed her. The surroundings weren’t entirely unknown to her. Cloud got off the bed, muffling a grunt. Her legs still hurt like hell even after, most likely, Genesis’s curaga. Some of the cuts left small white lines on her arms and legs. She was somewhat grateful regarding the absence of mirrors, spearing her some sanity. At least she is alive, she is alive.

’’I’m alive, I’m alive, I’m alive…’’ she chanted softly. There was a knock on the door before hearing Sephiroth’s voice.

’’Cloud? Are you awake?’’

Her throat felt dry. ’’Yes.’’

’’May I come in?’’

’’I’m kind of naked…’’

’’ There is a bathroom connected to this room. I left some clothes for you there. If you want to take a shower, feel free to use anything on the shelves. We can discuss it afterward.’’

’’Thank you...’’

A task. That’s good, a task to keep her mind busy. Washing away some of that smell, some of those hands, some of that blood. There wasn’t any blood on her body. Someone had cleaned it a long time ago. The soap had a lavender tint, most of the products did actually. It was nice, she hadn’t taken a proper bath in months. She let her mind run to the mountains she calls home, avoiding the mirror again, dressing in General's clothes. The shirt was a little big, and the pants were loose. Cloud looked in the mirror, combing through the hair using her hands. It was messy, but she couldn’t use Sephiroth’s brush.

The blonde stood at the door for a little while, debating what to say. What can she say? I’m sorry for getting almost killed? I’m sorry for not dying? That’s right, they must have carried her here, and they did tend to her wounds. She was a burden. That’s what they want to discuss. A sweet smell of soup reached the door. That was definitely Angeal’s cocking.

Cloud walked down the hallway trying to find the kitchen from memory. It was the first time she had seen more than the living room. Only once was she invited to dinner at her place. Dinner with the silver devil. Thinking about how close they all became with a cadet made her sick. Dread filled her mind, an overwhelming wave of shame washing over her.

‘’Blondie, you good?’’ Zack stopped his pacing around the couch, where Genesis and Angeal were watching her with worried gazes. Cloud forced a tired smile.

‘’You are worried about me?’’

‘’Of course, I am! We all are!’’ He stepped closer, extending his arms for a hug. Cloud’s smile died, a glint of fear dulling her eyes.

‘’There is no need for it’’

‘’Are you stupid? No need?’’ Genesis came to Zack’s side, fingertips red with anger, ready to burst ablaze. ‘’Angeal and Sephiroth found you half dead!’’

‘’I know what happened to me.’’

‘’Cloud… come, eat something. Healing is hard on your body as well.’’ Cloud met Angeal’s gentle eyes, then turned back at Genesis and Zack, guilt rising inside of her. Useless, it was the second time she was weak in front of them, her superiors. Weak, weak, weak!

‘’I’m sorry…’’

‘’…’’

‘’I couldn’t defend myself and I became a burden. I am sorry.’’

‘’It would have been a miracle have you managed to defeat them all.’’ Sephiroth appeared in the hall, carrying Masume in one hand, and her jacket in the other.

‘’You saw the recordings?’’ Zack was weirdly serious.

‘’I thought you said that there weren’t security cameras in gyms?’’ Cloud stepped towards the armchair, hugging her knees to her chest.

‘’Not normal cameras, but turks have them in almost all rooms, some like Firsts and Seconds are spared privacy.’’ Angeal brought Cloud a glass of water while they waited for the silver woman to change from work attire.

‘’I’ve been out for a whole day?’’

‘’And you are wondering why we’re worried.’’

‘’To sum up what I’ve seen, some of your fellow cadets decided that you didn’t deserve to be in the program, and the only way to settle their anger was to assault you. Some of them weren’t on board with the idea of killing you, hence why, after having you immobilized they left the room. Some others, three to be exact continued to torment you for another ten minutes. By that time, you were not fighting back anymore, so they thought they had killed you. Am I wrong?’’

‘’No…’’

‘’In total, you fought with five first stage enhancements cadets, unarmed using only a fire material, am I correct?’’

Zack whispered towards Genesis, ’’Why does it sound like an interrogation?’’

‘’It kinda is, I’m pretty sure Seph wants to kick those guys out. She needs Clouds testimony as well. Hopefully, Hojo won’t be too mad some of his subjects get thrown out. To be honest, if it were me I would have killed the little bastards, but I’m not the one in charge.’’ Genesis whispered back.

‘’Yes, that’s correct.’’

‘’Now, that that’s cleared out-‘’

‘’Will you kick me out as well?’’

‘’…’’

‘’Did you do anything that would get you kicked out?’’

‘’No, but it wouldn’t be any different if I stayed.’’

‘’Explain.’’ Cloud took a deep breath. That was stupid. What is she supposed to say? It is true. It wouldn’t make a difference if she stays, there is no way she can match any of her classmates now, nobody wants to listen to her, nobody can help her now.

‘’I can’t do anything here. I can’t match anyone in any field. Materia wielding? Take that out, I have too little energy. Sword fighting? To little strength and stamina. The list can go on. I am inferior and I can’t… I can’t make it…’’ she was expecting tears to fall, maybe to scream a little?

‘’Aren’t those flaws that resolve with enhancements?’’

‘’You are so right! How could I forget that? How could I forget that my only option is something I will never get?’’ Cloud stepped closer to Sephiroth, looking in her green eyes.

‘’Don’t look at me like I’m an animal that deserves pity. They refuse to get me on the list, they told me to ‘go home or join the police if I’m lucky’.

Sephiroth also stepped closer, locking her gaze with the smaller blonde. Only a few hours ago she got beat almost to death, and now she dares challenge the Silver Demon of Shinra. She most likely isn’t thinking straight, but it’s almost the same as it was in that mission. Amusing.

‘’You don’t want my pity, you feel indebted towards any act of kindness… then what do you want from me?’’ She lowered her head, hovering over her.

‘’Your help. Help me become stronger. So what if those fuckers get thrown out? If I can’t go on, they still win. I want to kill them… I know I can’t do that, and I don’t have the strength for it. Yet.’’

‘’And what do I get from this?’’

Genesis watched silently, enjoying the little show Sephiroth was putting on. Remembering the little interactions these two had during their dinners, and the scene at Honey Bee Inn, he wasn’t worried that she would refuse her. Rather it was interesting to see his old rival and friend like this, playful and gentle. She surely knows how bad Cloud must feel now, so she is redirecting her energy to something tangible, a goal. He’d seen people sink low from events as such this striking their life. Maybe if she had spoken earlier, Genesis or any of them could have helped the blonde.

‘’I don’t have something that can be valuable to you.’’

‘’You are right, you don’t. I will take you as my disciple. I’ve seen your worth. But you have to work hard, harder than you have ever.’’

Cloud’s eyes lit up, a smile curling her lips upwards. ‘’Thank you.’’ Her smile was contagious, even Sephiroth had to hold back a smirk.

‘’Now that we settled this matter, we should eat something. Angeal’s food doesn’t deserve to be wasted like this.’’

The two women parted, joining their friends in the kitchen. Cloud and Zack set the table, while Genesis went snooping around for some wine. The rest of the evening was peaceful. Cloud wanted to go to her apartment, but they all insisted to stay with Sephiroth another night, since some of her wounds, even after healing, still hurt like the fresh ones. If Cloud were to run into the same guys again? They would surely finish the job. Cloud was quick to fall asleep in the same bedroom, forgetting for the moment the words engraved on her back.

Chapter Text

‘’Come on Genesis you’ve been restless since we got back.’’ Angeal took off his shirt joining, his lover on the king-sized bed. The redhead wore a white silk robe, an excited expression blooming on his face.

‘’I think our dear Sephiroth may have some feeling towards Cloud. Not necessarily feelings actually, but she finds her interesting. I can work with that.’’

The taller man sighed deeply, ‘’Gen, interest isn’t the best way to categorize that. You will not work with anything!’’

‘’You are always spoiling my fun, Ange!’’

‘’It’s not ‘fun’ if it’s about our friends. I don’t think Seph looks at Cloud that way.’’

Zack storms into the room and launches in the middle of the bed nuzzling at Angeal’s chest. ‘’Get off my bed! Dry your hair and stop jumping like this on my bed! You are going to break it! Again!’’ Genesis pushed the younger aside, tossing a towel.

‘’Sorry, sorry! So what were you talking about?’’

‘’About how Gen wants to play-‘’

‘’About how I, with my genius and romantic intelligence, have in plan to set Sephiroth and Cloud up.’’

‘’Excuse me?’’ Zack drops back on the bed, shuffling around until he is sandwiched between his boyfriends. ‘’I don’t… explain? Do I want him to explain?’’

‘’You don’t.’’

‘’You do! Hear me out. You’ve seen how they look at one another, their personalities match.’’

‘’They do?’’

‘’In a way, but that’s not relevant now, my point is-‘’ Angeal pulled Genesis in a soft kiss shutting his mouth.

‘’Let’s sleep, we have to leave tomorrow for Kalm remember?’’ Zack received his goodnight kiss as well, and the three cuddled close. ‘’It’s not your business, first off, and the second Cloud is too vulnerable to think about that now. I agree that Seph may develop a soft spot for her, but that’s for them to see.’’

‘’Fine wise guy, I’ll let them be, for now.’’ He sighed content and nuzzled close to Zack, intertwining fingers with Angeal.

Sephiroth stared at Cloud’s attackers' files. None of them had done anything remotely close, had a good background. She sighed closing the laptop. Pitiful really. They had a bright future ahead if only they didn’t act like animals. Worst than that. The silver-haired went into the kitchen for another cup of coffee. Only the paperwork for the apprentice program was left and it was already two am. She could maybe get a few hours of sleep for tomorrow, or cancel some meetings? She didn’t wish to see Hojo’s face anyway, so her first meeting of the day will be moved to another date.

Sephiroth stopped catching the scent of blood coming from the guest bedroom. A small whimper startled her. ‘’Cloud? Are you ok in there?’’ she waits for an answer, counting the ways to kill those bastards. ‘’Cloud? If you don’t answer I am going to enter.’’

Still, the only thing she could hear was a strained breath. The dim light revealed Cloud’s silhouette hunched over, nails digging in her skin tearing it little by little. Sephiroth got closer, calling her name. She started shaking her, blowing a breath of relief when her eyes opened wide, filled with terror. The younger woman quickly backed off, leaning on the wall behind her.

‘’It’s ok, it’s ok, look at me, it’s ok!’’ Her voice was gentle, as she sat on the bed, offering her space. ‘’It was a dream, just a dream. There is nothing here beside me. You are safe, Cloud.’’

They remained on the bed, engulfed in darkness, Sephiroth listening to Cloud’s heartbeats settle. Cloud got off the bed, went into the bathroom to splash some cold water on her face, then returned to the bedroom, resuming her position away for the general.

‘’I’m sorry.’’

‘’What for?’’

‘’…’’

Sephiroth stepped out, returning with a first aid kit, turning on the lights.

‘’I don’t have a cure materia right now. Come, I’ll bandage those for you.’’

‘’I can do that myself.’’

‘’Yes you can, but that doesn’t mean you need to. I will not ask again. Come.’’ Cloud shuffled closer, letting her head hang, as Sephiroth inspected the cuts. Strong alcohol scent stung her nose, but she said nothing, waiting for her to finish cleaning the wounds. Sephiroth’s hands were surprisingly uncertain and too rough to the point she had to bite her tongue to keep a small wine from escaping her lips.

‘’Can you be more gentle?’’

‘’I apologize.’’

‘’Give it here, I’ll take care of it. I promise I won’t hurt myself.’’ Reluctant, Sephiroth handed her the bandages, watching her hands at work. ‘’I’m sorry about earlier, I stepped out of line.’’

‘’To be frank, I was a little surprised, but a pleasant surprise nonetheless. I like your stubborn character.’’

‘’Thank you, general.’’

‘’Call me Sephiroth, it gets annoying after a while.’’ They remain in silence for a while listening to the sounds of the city. ‘’You should go back to sleep.’’

‘’Can- yeah you are right. Goodnight, Sephiroth.’’

‘’Goodnight, Cloud!’’

Sephiroth picked the first aid kit and returned to her room. About an hour later, all of the paperwork has been dealt with. This was tiring, even more, than being on the battlefield. No that must be her missing adrenaline. A fight with Genesis would work just fine… he’s being deployed tomorrow. She sighed, closing the laptop again. She should get some sleep, but two hours won’t be of much help. She can always go back to sleep after seeing off her friends. Sephiroth felt a presence dwelling by the door for some time now, but she chose to ignore it.

‘’If you need something, say it now, I plan on going to sleep.’’ Cloud appeared, her hair was half braided.

‘’I’m sorry, I know you want to go to sleep, I wanted to go… I’m afraid to go to sleep… I-I know… it’s stupid but…’’

‘’So you started braiding your hair?’’

‘’Back home I used to braid mom’s hair in winter and she did mine. I use it to soothe myself, but it’s not working… I’ll just go… back.’’

Sephiroth sighed deeply, ‘’Want to eat something?’’

‘’No, I’m fine.’’

‘’I’ll drop you off at your apartment in an hour and a half since Genesis and Angeal are going on a mission. I don’t want to see you in any class or training for the next two days. We might as well do something to pass the time.’’

‘’I didn’t mean to disturb you I’m sorry…’’

‘’It’s fine. Let’s watch a movie. You pick, I’ll go get something to drink.’’

When she returned, holding two hot chocolate mugs Cloud was already seated on the couch, braiding her hair with delicate movement, eyes glued to the title card of an action movie. She enjoyed those very much, and from their movie nights, Sephiroth noticed she hates romances or comedies without a few fights in between. She placed her mug on the table in front of her sitting down a few centimeters away on the couch. Cloud was a huge cuddler usually, but it may pass a while before she returned to her cocky self demanding hugs from all of them.

Cloud finished her braid, right before a loud explosion caught her attention. In these past months, the blonde integrated into their small friend group, joining them at most dinners and movie nights. Cloud was awkward at first, but to Sephiroth she was almost fearful, watching her with an adoring gaze, always keeping her distance. Truthfully their first interaction wasn’t in the best circumstances, but it almost always brought a little light to Sephitorh’s heart. Slowly, they warmed towards each other, Sephiroth lowering her guard more often around Cloud, as Genesis suggested. Good for making new friends, he said. Yeah, sure but Sephiroth knew what he was trying to pull, ever since that day at Honey Bee Inn.

They watched the movie in silence, Cloud immersed in the action, sipping slowly, until there was nothing to sip, but the weight of the mug kept her from falling asleep. Sephiroth lent Cloud some more fitting clothes to walk around the tower, dropping her before heading to the hangars. It wasn’t a usual night, but spending some alone time with Cloud was strangely refreshing. Genesis and Zack always keep the conversation flowing, maybe a little too much. With Angeal, things take a more motherly turn? Most of their conversations end on a bitter note of ‘Seph please go to therapy’ even after she started going. It is good advice and he was a grounding presence in her life, but slowly Cloud started creeping into her mind as much as her other friends. She was just there in a comforting way, not speaking, perhaps still keeping her distance due to the rank, but doing small things that intrigue Sephiroth in a way similar to close fights with Genesis do.

‘’Look who decided to show up! You look like shit.’’ Genesis who seemed more irritable than usual hooked his arm around Sephiroth’s neck.

‘’I can’t wait for your aircraft to leave.’’

‘’Why so you can return to your Cloud?’’ A devilish grin appeared on his face.

‘’No. So I can catch up on some sleep. It’s a shame Angeal is leaving. I could have used some help planning a training schedule.’’ Genesis freed Sephiroth, moving towards a group of seconds that were boarding the aircraft, shouting some orders. Behind them, heavy steps announced Angeal’s arrival, followed by an extremely sleepy Zack.

‘’Morning Seph! You look pale.’’

‘’I’m always pale.’’

‘’Good point. Marcus come help me with some cargo!’’ The black-haired man disappeared shortly, returning with his lover to say goodbye. After hugging each other, Zack received his training schedule.

‘’Don’t you dare skip it, or I’ll have you on ground duty in the slums. Sector 1!’’

‘’I’m sure Cloud will nag me about it enough. I love you.’’

‘’We love you too dear, now go back and sleep a little more. You should go as well Seph, you are pale.’’

‘’Wow, then your eyes haven’t been deceiving me these past years. Take care. I want both of you in top shape when you come back!’’

‘’Yes ma’am!’’ Genesis spat in a mocking tone. ‘’Don’t bury yourself in work this time, you have a student to train. You better take care of her!’’

‘’Care more about you.’’

They watched their friends leave the tower, taking the private First elevator to their floor. Zack was quiet, lost in thought. Instead of entering Genesis’s apartment, he turns to her with a serious look on his face.

‘’Do you like Cloud?’’

‘’…’’

‘’I know it sounds weird, but Gen was talking about… forget it!’’

After four hours of sleep, Sephiroth felt like a new person. It was a pretty calm day with most of the troops out on the field and two of the top generals leading them. Periods like this were few and far in between and yet her day was ruined by the arrival of the five cadets. Her assistant let them in, to be met with a piercing gaze filled with bloodlust. Their hands stiffened in a salute, their voices trembling.

‘’Shay Miller, Ivan Krasnov, Kino Sasti, Lucian Popa, Marcus Coli. Do you know why I personally called you here?’’ They remained silent, not daring to meet her eyes. ‘’Then allow me to refresh your memory about the events from two days ago. You have assaulted a fellow cadet, injured her to the point where she could have lost her life due to the wounds. I hope you understand the gravity of the situation and how you represent a risk, a risk that I am not willing to walk into battle with. This army does not tolerate assault, bullying, or murder!’’

She raised her voice just slightly earning a jolt from a few of them. Sephiroth took Masume, sitting in the middle of the creamy white couch next to the table. Having them so close, so easy to kill, to torture exactly how they tortured Cloud and worst, was dangerous for them. The sound of Masume cutting through bone, ringing in her mind, sent a pleasant chill down her spine. ‘’You should consider yourselves lucky my office has white furniture, otherwise you would have not been as ‘membered’ when you left. SOLIDER does not need service from lowly vermin who cannot contain their anger. The public security will shortly arrive to take you in for your trial.’’ A sinister smile bloomed on her face.

‘’Please, please I- I didn’t want to do it, I’m sorry! I have a family to provide for!’’

Sephiroth remained unfazed looking at the reflection on Masume. ‘’Get out of my sight before I decide that your family deserves to receive only your head in the mail.’’ They didn’t wait for another word leaving the office with their heads lowered. Sephiroth took a short breath in a futile effort to calm her mind.

Sephiroth secured Masume on her back, instructing her assistant to clear her schedule. Decapitating some monsters isn’t the same as decapitating disgusting, cruel… better keep that for the simulation room.

Chapter Text

Cloud took a deep breath before knocking on Sephiroth’s door. The time away from training allowed her to fully process what had happened to her. It was painful, leaving her in a pitiful state in a puddle of tears. Zack passed by her place to check on her. He was shocked to see his friend broken like that. He helped her, by bringing food and nagging her to eat something, anything.

The resting days she had received from Sephiroth were over, and as per her instructions, her first training of the week would be with Sephiroth in her apartment, in the evening. IT WAS FINE, nothing would go wrong, she got this, she would nail this first training. This chant she had been reciting since she entered the corridor and didn’t stop until they were in the gym. The floor was padded with black leather, a few different weapons were displayed on the walls. On a small wooden table sat Masume in all its glory overshadowing the other blades.

‘’Today I intend to evaluate your progress in hand-to-hand combat and swordsmanship. Three rounds to fend off my attacks. The goal isn’t to defeat me.’’ Sephiroth stopped two meters away from her, her hair tied in a tight ponytail. The loose crop top revealed the strong muscles on her abdomen and back. ‘’First hand to hand. Whenever you are ready.’’ Her stance was completely relaxed while Cloud felt anxiety gathering in her stomach.

She took a deep breath. She could do this, it was just a training session, just training. She just had to imagine that in front of her was Zack and not a very intimidating woman. Cloud started circling Sephiroth, watching her movements, the way her muscles moved trying to predict her movement. A useless effort really. When she moved towards her, all she could do was block a punch aimed at her face. The force pushed her back slightly before another one aimed for her jaw hooked from the left. With dizzying speed they danced around the room, waiting for an opportunity to strike back. Cloud was proud of her speed, but this, this strength, elegant yet dangerous movements, it was beautiful and deadly.

Finally, Cloud sensed an opening, trapping her hand then around her neck, using her weight to bring her opponent down. When she felt the air pushed out of her lungs by the matters, Cloud started applying force, struggling to maintain Sephiroth on the floor, her thighs squeezing her neck. In the end, it was again useless. Sephiroth met her gaze before lifting her arm and Cloud off the ground, just to bash her against it with great force. Cloud grit her teeth squeezing tighter but another two similar blows determined her to let go. Easing the pressure she twisted her torso hoping to throw Sephiroth to the side. The said throw was, well more like a push but enough for her to untangle her legs and hands, resuming the original positions.

Her breathing staggered for a while, but Sephiroth didn’t allow her a moment to rest. Back to blocking, her movement slowed whilst Sephiroth maintained her fast pace. Soon Cloud was on her back, pinned to the floor, taping her hand to signal defeat. Even after Sephiroth let her go, the blonde remained on the floor taking deep breaths, settling her racing heart. It took two minutes for her breathing to return to normal. Even if she felt out of it she couldn’t have been obliterated like this right?

‘’Cloud, choose a sword.’’ Finally, she got off the floor, walking slowly towards the wall. Sephiroth’s complexion was still pale, not a single hair out of place, not a drop of sweat on her perfect face.

‘’Wow, these are…’’

‘’You can look through them later. For now, pick one.’’

Cloud choose a double edge longsword. The round ended after a fast exchange of blows, lasting slightly longer than the previous one. Sephiroth choose a similar sword for her so they were evenly matched at least in that field. Cloud lay on the floor again, pinned down by Sephiroth’s weight. This time she got to attack once or twice, a plus in her books.

‘’Now chose your preferred weapon. It doesn’t matter which save for guns.’’
She scanned the walls, passing by different whips, lances, and knives. Finally two or three trickshot bows and some war bows, with beautiful carvings. In a small space like this one a war bow was a burden, so a recurve bow was the most effective. Sephiroth said nothing picking up her Masume off the table. The blonde secured a quiver around her figure, breathing slowly to calm her heart. She had seen Sephiroth once before wielding Masume, painting a horrifying image. Even if she seemed completely relaxed, a hint of bloodlust glowed in her green eyes.

The weight of the bow felt right in her hand, preparing an arrow, settling on her target. Defend. It’s not a fight, just bring her down. Aim for limbs, aim for the torso, not the head. The silver-haired woman stared her down, closing in a step at the time. Annoying, distance is crucial, but so is folding the higher ground. Cloud let the first arrow fly towards her right arm, aiming the next to her now unprotected abdomen. Of course, Sephiroth blocked both of them, she didn’t expect an actual hit, just testing the waters a little. This was a fight that she most certainly couldn’t win, as she didn’t wish to wound her mentor.

The taller woman started a series of violent attacks, still holding back a lot. Soon the arrows ran out, but Cloud wasn’t done. Most of them were intact but too far for her to reach. Masume barely moved to stop her attacks.

‘’You can call it quits now, you are out of ammo.’’

‘’But not out of breath.’’ Cloud bolted to Sephiroth’s side barely avoiding a slash from Masume. She stepped behind her, hooking the bow around her neck, climbing on her broad shoulders. A skillful hand grabbed her by her shirt, throwing the blonde forward. Before Cloud could get up, a great weight anchored her to the ground. Sephiroth’s hand holding her wrists tightly, her long legs stopping Cloud from moving. There were a few centimeters between them. Cloud starred in those frighteningly green eyes.

‘’I’m out of breath now…’’ Seeing the other woman so close, she was beautiful. Her fair skin, straight nose, and striking eyes. General Sephiroth is indeed a living weapon, but a gorgeous one.

Sephiroth allowed her to get up, placing Masume back on its table. ‘’Your fighting style is very chaotic, I see that you have merged different moves, creating something… undisciplined. Yes, that is a good descriptor.’’

‘’Thanks?’’ Cloud also put the bow back, gathering the arrows left on the floor. It’s been an hour and a half since they had started and Cloud’s muscles already felt like pudding.

‘’That wasn’t a compliment. This one is, your reaction speed is good, and assessing the situation before acting is a great habit you have. I assume someone else trained you before coming here? I noticed some tendencies frequently seen in wutaian soldiers.’’

They left the training room, walking side by side. ‘’Yes, a wutaian soldier thought me first how to fight. Don’t look at me like that I am not conspiring with Wutai.’’

‘’Oh, I never said that! Would you like to stay for dinner? It’s already late and the cafeteria is already closed.’’

‘’If you don’t mind me stinking of sweat the whole time sure!’’

‘’I don’t mind.’’

‘’…’’

‘’…’’

‘’So… Uhm, what for… dinner?’’

‘’Do you like seafood? I know a good restaurant that makes deliveries.’’

‘’I…’’ She had never eaten seafood, as most fish from the lake two villages down the mountain. But the atmosphere was awkward enough so what could she do besides saying yes and wait for the food to arrive.

‘’In the meantime, mind telling me about that wutaian soldier?’’

‘’…’’

Sephiroth sighed, dropping on the couch. ‘’You won’t get into trouble regardless of your answer.’’

‘’Ok, well I come from Nibelheim, and passing through our village was a secure route for smugglers to come into Shinra territory. It’s not used anymore since rumors spread about people dying in the mountains, attacked by the evil spirits of the forests. But before that, when I was about twelve, Wutai would also use that route for spies. One of them got injured and asked our village for help. My mother offered to take him in and tend to his wounds. After a few days, he was better, but an avalanche blocked the road so he was stuck with us for about a year. There were other ways to leave the village of course, but that knowledge isn’t shared with outsiders. In the meantime, besides helping ma with duties around the house, and working the field with the other farmers, he would teach me to fight.’’

‘’I’m surprised your village took him in this easily. If he was discovered by Shinra troupes you all would have been in grave danger for harboring state enemies.’’

‘’Lucky for us we didn’t run into Shinra at that time. Unfortunately for him, food rations weren’t enough that winter so the village head made sure he didn’t return from gathering wood one night. A shame really, I was getting the hang of wutaian combat.’’

‘’I see. Your village must be a cruel place I suppose?’’

‘’Just to outsiders.’’

The conversation flowed, and after the food arrived Sephiroth tried to teach Cloud how to use chopsticks. The food was great, she enjoyed the spring rolls the most, but she had to give up and revert to using a fork. After they chatted some more, they ended back in the training room, testing Cloud magic resistance.

‘’You have to widen the variety of materia you use.’’

‘’I only have Fire available for practice… maybe Thunder if I bribe Zack.’’

‘’Here.’’ Sephiroth placed a green orb gently in Cloud’s palm. Her touch was warm, even for that fleeting second.

‘’What is it?’’

‘’Sleep materia. Different in casting from the elemental ones and different in usage. It belongs in the same category as Poison, Gravity, and Time materia. Learn to use one and you got the others down. Now try to cast a first-level spell.’’

Cloud took a deep breath, pouring energy into the orb. It flickered green, spreading a calming lavender scent. Bluish smoke erupted from her hand spreading forward to the imaginary enemy. It resembled clouds, a very soft mist spreading around. Her lids felt heavy but not enough to bother her. The spell didn’t backfire, it was just her fatigue. Unlike the others, this material felt so easy to use, almost begging her to cast some more.

‘’Good, I suppose in materia is only a matter of practice. For that, you may keep it. I expect you to train with it some more in your under-plate patrols.’’

‘’Yes. But can I really take it?’’

‘’I already said you could. Try this next, it’s Poison.’’

Just like before, the energy transformed into a dark cloud, racing forward. The fumes had a strong stingy smell that made Cloud’s head spin. For a Poison, the fumes seemed strong enough to knock someone off their feet.

‘’With these, you have to be careful when casting. Here is enough space and ventilation for you not to inhale the fumes, but in a cell or cave, you don’t have that certainty. The effects can be countered with an Esuna. Make sure you have one on you to pair Poison with. You can’t be sure that you will not affect some of your allies by mistake. For now, Sleep is enough for you. Wait here, I’ll go get a dummy.’’

Getting to hear more of Sephiroth’s voice was a blessing. She was usually quiet, and well she was like that today also when the discussion drifted from training and fights and stuff like that. Still, she was just like before, just there with a dreadful presence, but strangely comforting. No, no, no, she will not think like that, no she will not. General Sephiroth is her superior, a very strong extremely intelligent, and respected and…

‘’Cloud, focus.’’

‘’Oh, sorry… what were you saying?’’ Cloud felt her face heating up in embarrassment. She was here to train, not to think about her general.

‘’You haven’t touched an Ice materia before right? I want you to cast first, then second then third-level spells. Repeat the cycle until I tell you to stop.’’

‘’Yes ma’am.’’ The materia orb felt cold to the touch. Air rushed through her nose, cold spreading in her body, tingling her fingertips. A small light floated towards the dummy, exploding in a ball of ice incasing its silhouette. She drew a sharp breath before releasing another ball of light that chilled the air all around, adding more icy spikes. The next left behind a trail of snowflakes crashing violently in the now ice statue, shattering it. Sephiroth replaced it with two more, not allowing her a moment of rest. Cloud was more than grateful she ate something before.

A half an hour, that was her limit. She cast about 13 spells before passing out. Cloud woke up on the couch, covered with a soft blanket. Sephiroth was filling some paperwork at the table lost in her work.

‘’Take a warm shower when you go back. Are you dizzy still?’’

‘’No, I think I’m ok now. I’m sorry for passing out.’’

‘’No need. I wanted to see your limit. You are free to go now.’’ Sephiroth seemed tense, her voice colder than earlier. She was probably mad at her.

‘’I’ll go then. Thank you, goodnight general.’’

‘’Goodnight Cloud.’’ The blonde failed to notice the slight disappointment in Sephiroth’s voice.

After taking a shower her limbs finally warmed. The Sleep materia joined her own materia on the shelf. She wanted to go to sleep, to shut down for the night, but a phone call interrupted her.

AERITH: Cloud strife, how dare you ghost me!?

CLOUD: Hi Aerith... what are you talking about?

AERITH: You could have at least called me to say ’Hey Aerith, I’m alive, don’t worry.’ You know? Why did I have to find out from Zack that you got beat up?

CLOUD: Aer....it’s more complicated than that. Look I’m really tired now. I might fall asleep on the phone with you. I am fine now, you don’t have to worry. Whenever I get a patrol under-plate, I’ll pass by to explain.

AERITH: You better keep your word Strife or I’m coming up myself!

CLOUD: Bye Aer!

AERITH: Take care, dumbass! I love you.

CLOUD: Love you too, flower girl!

Chapter Text

‘’I am not going to a party, Andy! No way in hell!’’

‘’Oh no you most definitely are coming. I don’t want to hear it!’’

‘’Why do I need to come? It’s your thing, not mine!’’
‘’Madam M. set it up and boosting my sales won’t hurt. You have missed a month's worth of shows, need I remind you? I understand, busy schedule, but you are in the city now and I bet you can spare a night.’’

To make up for her absence for those few days Sephiroth gave her off, Cloud had patrols non-stop. Sephiroth’s training got harder with every session, turning her into a walking zombie by the end of it. She also put Cloud up on the list for enhancements, but now everything was up to Hojo’s availability. Her relationship with the general also developed further, the two becoming a little closer. Genesis seemed to like that, and after his return, he made sure to push the two to spend more time together. To his detriment, Sephiroth left to the front lines a few days later. Cloud hadn’t seen her mentor in two weeks but kept diligent, following the general’s instructions.

Now she was enjoying a drink at Honey Bee Inn with Andreea discussing an invitation to Madam C. for Madam M.’s Halloween party. It was for the important people from under the plate as well as those from the top plate. Getting this invitation personally meant a lot of things, one of them being that her public presence became a little too well known.

‘’You are KILLING ME!’’

‘’Stop being overdramatic.’’

‘’Fine but you are covering half of the costume.’’

‘’Where are the money from last month? I am sure you made enough for it.’’

‘’Costume … money for wood for ma… you know, priorities.’’

‘’Fine, but I’ll take it out of your next pay. What do you want to go as?’’

A hostess passed Cloud another drink that she downed immediately. ‘’Don’t know, don’t care. Make sure that my back is fully covered, and get me a mask.

‘’What’s with you these days?’’

‘’Nothing, just some shit went down.’’

‘’I told you once and I’ll tell you again. If you need to lay low for a while, I don’t mind an extra dancer.’’

‘’Got ya, Andy!’’ The buzzing coming from her phone stopped her to sip from another glass. ‘’Sorry, gotta go.’’

‘’Duty calls?’’

‘’Morning shift calls.’’ She pushed the glass towards her friend. ‘’Bye!’’

By the end of the week, Sephiroth returned home with Zack and Angeal. The latter two went out on a date, leaving Genesis at home to help Cloud dress up for the party. Her body ached, every limb feeling like jelly. As usual, Sephiroth was merciless with the training, but she was slowly getting used to it. She wasn’t getting tired as quickly as before. Genesis huffed again over the loud noise of the blow dryer.

‘’Could you not have asked Seph for a free day as well?’’

‘’…’’

‘’You look like those guys from accounting!’’

‘’…’’

‘’Look at you! Your feet are trembling from the strain!’’

‘’I get it Genesis can you please just do my hair?!’’

He put down the blow dryer, picking up a comb detangling her blonde hair. He made sure to use her bangs to better frame the face, curling it in the back. She was wearing a black skin-tight dress, with red accents resembling tattoos. Since the mask covered most of her face, Genesis chose a deep red lipstick to match the dress. A pair of bat wings lay on the couch alongside the devil tail.

‘’Do you think I can fit a knife or a weapon somewhere?’’ checking herself in the mirror she couldn’t help but be amazed.

‘’They take all weapons away anyway. It’d be useless.’’

Cloud took the sleep materia that Sephiroth gave her. Looking down at her chest there was some space thanks to the push-up bra. It wasn’t a big materia… She let the orb slide down right in the space between her breasts. With a little adjustment, it was hidden enough not to raise suspicion.

‘’If your magic breasts put you more at ease, come put on the rest of the costume.’’

‘’They do.’’ The wings were a bit too sparkly, but it was a good distraction from the slit exposing her legs.

‘’And try not to drink.’’

‘’I know, mom.’’

‘’Watch it, Strife! Do you even know to walk in heels?’’ He handed her a pair of red shoes.

‘’Of course, I know! I’ll most likely spend the night at Honey Bee Inn.’’

‘’That will boost the rumors.’’ They went towards the secret tunnel that connected the First’s room with the underground parking.

‘’That’s exactly what we want.’’

The train ride down plate was a little annoying, different people starring at her in a very obvious manner. It didn’t really matter, after all, she was performing for a whole night. A bright smile blossomed on her face, just enough to incite mystery. Andreea was waiting for her near the main entrance in a black suit with a long cape of the same color. He wore a similar mask, red spirals painted on his face. He took her gloved hand-kissing on top of the knuckles. Strolling like this towards the remains of Sector 6… with staged gestures. It was extremely annoying.

‘’You look stunning tonight.’’

‘’Likewise. When can we make our mysterious disappearance?’’

‘’A little after midnight… Can you try to enjoy it at least a little? It’s a party after all.’’

‘’If I get lost in the labyrinth I’m climbing the wall and I’m going home.’’

‘’You aren’t going in the labyrinth then.’’

‘’Party popper!’’

They continued one with a meaningless chat, joining Madam M. at the bar. Some guests invited her to dance or to drink something with them, but Andreea seemed enough to get them to back off after being rejected. However much she wanted to enjoy the party, Cloud couldn't get away from the fake smile and sweet voice, trying to keep everyone entertained with meaningless topics. Not many listened to her since they were more interested in her work at the inn. After an hour or so Andreea had to leave and help Madam M. with something in back at the parlor.

‘’I promise I won’t take long.’’

‘’If I get bored, I will leave.’’

‘’Take care, and promise not to leave. It will affect my reputation as well.’’

‘’Go Andy!’’ She gave him a quick peck on the cheek. It was a small gesture, but enough to get people’s attention.

One of the hosts from the underground arena came to talk about the upcoming election held by Don Corneo. Oh, and how he longs to see beauties such as herself and how well she will be treated and her family will receive a good amount of money for her services.

She did notice how some other people started closing in on her, pushing her towards the open entry to the labyrinth. Andreea was nowhere to be seen and none of the faces surrounding her seemed familiar.

‘’Esteemed guests, isn’t it a bit too stuffy here?’’

‘’Madam C. I have never seen your performances before. Do you mind demonstrating for us?’’ Others agreed, closing the circle around her. Cold sweat dripped down her spine.

‘’That’s a shame really. This night is a little boring wouldn’t you agree? What do you all say about a little game, hmm?’’ Looking over the people she caught a glowing green pair of eyes far away, next to the bar. It was the same person that watched her from the VIP area in the Inn, with the same hungry look. Only now, Cloud silently asked for help before finishing her proposal. ‘’A race in the labyrinth. I have five minutes to navigate through it before you come looking for me. The first person to find me will receive a special gift from yours truly. But remember, only the first person to find me will receive it.’’

Cloud turned around setting a fast pace after exiting their view. At best she would find the exit and leave for Honey Bee Inn before the five minutes are up. At worst someone finds her. She would be fine either way, but Andreea would scold her according to the outcome. The iron bars began to look too similar to distinguish and so the blonde got lost. Maybe climbing on the walls wasn’t that bad of an idea. She has been counting the seconds since the beginning, so she wasn’t surprised when she heard someone closing in. Snatching the material from its hiding place, she waited for the person to enter the dead-end she stopped some time ago.

A slender silhouette dressed in all white came into view. The white angelic wings couldn’t distract Cloud from admiring her mentor’s toned body, beautifully wrapped in weightless material. Her silver hair spilled over the porcelain-like shoulders, gold chains decorating her strong arms and chest.

‘’My, the heavens listened to my prayer and sent me an angel to keep me company for the night.’’ Fuck she was still in character. Sephiroth rose a brow, stepping closer and closer until she was starring right above at the blonde.

‘’I like your costume.’’ She trailed a cold hand through Cloud’s loose strands messing up one of the curls. She didn’t give much attention to it, focusing on her green eyes. ‘’It suits you.’’ Her voice was low, deep and it had a tint of something unknown to her yet.

‘’You found me first…’’ Cloud tried to take deep breaths to calm her racing heart, but the sweet scent coming from Sephiroth was intoxicating, almost making her choke.

‘’Didn’t you want me to?’’ Another step forward and now only a few centimeters separated the two of them, almost catching each other’s breaths. She nodded in agreement.

‘’Then, what about that special gift?’’

‘’Pick.’’

‘’Is this how you want to play?’’

Sephiroth towered over her, barely grazing her lips, giving the blonde a chance to back away while her hands circled the smaller frame. Why should Cloud leave? Was it the alcohol? Maybe but her tolerance was high enough to think straight. This wasn’t a very straight situation though. Maybe Gen’s teasing has gotten to her, but the way Sephiroth was looking down at her. Just once, could she allow herself to indulge in something? Just once.

Cloud rose her head meeting Sephiroth’s lips halfway in a shy chaste kiss.

‘’Was this your first-?’’

When she wanted to pull away the taller woman made a small sound of disapproval before crushing her lips with her own. A hand came to rest on Cloud’s waist while the other angles her head just right. It was warm, their kiss hungry as if none of them had tasted flesh before. They had. Cloud remembers her first kiss with one of the boys from back home when she was around fifteen. It was nothing like this, the warmth building up in her core as their lips sought each other endlessly.

She didn’t know what to do with her arms. She was content with this, but somewhere deep inside her mind, she was ashamed. The general moved with such confidence massaging her head, pulling her closer in a dizzying rhythm. Cloud just stood there half-frozen unsure about what she was allowed to do. Was she allowed to touch Sephiroth as she does now, carving patterns in her back? Hopefully. The blonde circled her arms around the other’s waist, pulling her closer as well. In response she got her lip bitten, earning a low moan.

‘’You didn’t answer.’’

‘’No.’’

‘’A shame.’’ Sephiroth’s mouth traveled along her jaw, up to her ear. Cloud could barely contain the embarrassing sound that was about to come out when she bit her earlobe. A warm and wet tongue moved along her neck, back to her lips. Teeth pulled at her lower lip until Cloud could do nothing but open her mouth a little, her breathing uneven.

‘’Ah come on, someone already found her. Hey lady, what do you say we share her?’’ A figure appeared from behind the wall. It gave Cloud a moment to collect herself, while Sephiroth turned back looking that man straight in the eyes.

‘’Scram!’’ The simple command terrified the man. He left without another word, leaving the two alone again. After catching her breath, Cloud looked up at Sephiroth, whose eyes were glistening with want, desire, and hunger.

‘’We should leave, more people might come here.’’

‘’Well in the original plan I would have been long gone.’’ The taller woman raised an eyebrow, grabbing her hand, leading the two out of the labyrinth. When they left the party in a hurry, the blonde noticed other participants in her little game fixating Sephiroth with disgusted gazes.

One of Sephiroth’s less conspicuous cars, though a luxurious one, awaited them in the parking lot. Cloud slipped in the passenger seat almost putting the seat belt on before Sephiroth started racing on the empty streets. Dozen of questions flooded Cloud’s mind and she was too lost in them to notice Sephiroth talking to her.

‘’Cloud?’’

‘’Sorry, I wasn’t listening.’’

‘’I could see that.’’

‘’…’’

‘’What was the plan’’

‘’What?’’ They stopped at a red light.

‘’You said you had a plan that didn’t involve my… input. Were you planning on letting anyone choose their… prize?’’

‘’Oh, no, of course not. You see I’m a very diligent student and as you instructed I have to practice my casting. Surely nobody would mind a dream carefully woven by Madam C.’’ She reached in her dress revealing the small pulsating materia.

Silence fell between them again. Cloud started fidgeting with the little orb, pondering whether to ask or not. She remained quiet, following Sephiroth mindlessly into her apartment. Well now or never.

‘’Why did you do that?’’

‘’Why do you think?’’ For fun? To mock her? Because she liked her? No, that one probably not. Maybe? Hopefully? ‘’You should know that I never take pointless action. Not on the battlefield and nonetheless regarding my relationships. What are you still doubting?’’

Sephiroth started taking the gold chains out of her hair, placing them on the coffee table in the living room. On queue Cloud reached out, gently untangling the little ornaments. After they removed them all, the older woman turned to face her again sliding of the black mask, caressing her cheek softly. There was a small change in her expression, a slight curve of her lips when she drew Cloud in for a deep kiss. This time she took her time, moving slowly, not so mindful of her make-up anymore. It took a lot of effort for the blonde to stand on her feet, but it was useless in the end. She was beyond tired from the training, from the party, from Sephiroth’s fingers teasing around her lower back, pulling her closer and closer until there was no space between them. Finally, her legs gave out.

‘’Are you ok?’’ Sephiroth lowered both of them slowly to the floor, giving Cloud space to breathe. She laid her head against Sephiroth's chest, their heartbeats in sync. The white material slipped off her shoulder.

‘’I’m sorry, I just… I’m tired.’’

‘’I think I should be the one to apologize, I pushed you a little too hard today. We can stop if you want.’’

‘’No!... please don’t… I want to keep going. Just don’t make me stand again.’’

‘’As you wish.’’

Sephiroth pushed her down on the floor pinning her arms above her head. It was messy, seeking each other’s warmth.

But something was wrong. It felt wrong. Because the pleasure started dissipating and images from weeks ago started flooding her mind. Cloud’s hands pinned to the ground. A heavy body pressed against her so tight that she couldn’t move, something covering her mouth that she couldn’t scream. And hands and legs kicking and punching her. A knife carving into her skin. Not again, they were here again. There was a voice shouting, but it was too far away. She couldn’t breathe. The familiar darkness was calling out to her again, to spare her from this nightmare that might as well be reality. So she might as well succumb to it.

Chapter Text

A soft blanket embraced her body. Her head was propped on a few pillows, a sweet scent of vanilla and night floating in the room. Sephiroth’s room. The dress was uncomfortable, but she didn’t dare move. Next to her, sleeping on the side of the bed, kneeling by it was Sephiroth. Her long silver lashes cast a small shadow on her cheeks, quivering slightly in her sleep. She seemed so peaceful silver strands pooling on the floor around her. Those lips, those sinful lips. Remembering how they pressed against hers, how they moved against her neck, placing small kisses, warmth started pooling in her core. It must have been a dream right? A dream turned into a nightmare.

Cloud couldn’t help the tears rolling off her cheeks. Propping herself up, she started weeping quietly. She didn’t dare make a sound, but Sephiroth woke up anyway, seeing the blonde with flushed cheeks and black tears staining her face.

‘’Cloud…’’

‘’I’m sorry. I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry-‘’

Taking one of the silk ends from her costume Sephiroth gently wiped Cloud’s face clean ignoring the stains. ‘’Silly, what are you apologizing for?’

‘’I- I’m… I’m just- sorry.’’ Her breathing staggered.

‘’There is no need. How are you feeling?’’

‘’Di-… dizzy.’’ Gods she hated this. She couldn’t calm down, she couldn't talk properly.

‘’Mn, I’ll go get you a glass of water.’’

The general seemed tired as well. Her face was paler than usual, some golden powder smudged around her eyes. Cloud went into the bathroom to get rid of the makeup that survived her crying fit. Thank gods the face paint didn’t stain. Sephiroth returned, with some water and snacks, setting them on the table.

‘’I thought you might be hungry. Are you feeling better?’’

‘’Yes, thank you… about earlier-‘’

‘’Please don’t apologize again, I’ll make you go run some laps if you do that.’’

‘’…’’

‘’…’’ Cloud turned around looking into her eyes. A soft giggle escaped her lips, turning into a heartfelt laugh. She picked up a makeup wipe, sitting next to Sephiroth on the bed. With a small smile, she cleaned off the golden dust. Their faces were so close, just like before. That warmth raised again inside. She didn’t dare clean around her neck, afraid of those piercing eyes, afraid to get lost in the heat of her skin.

‘’I’m sorry I can’t take you seriously with glitter all over your face.’’

Sephiroth seized her hand. ‘’I told you to stop apologizing.’’

‘’I’m stubborn. But really about earlier.’’

‘’It was my fault. I should be sorry.’’

‘’No, I was the one to faint!’’

‘’Yes because I was careless! I should have known that would be a trigger.’’ She let go of her hand, avoiding her gaze. It was the first time she saw Sephiroth so… defeated

‘’How could you have known? I didn’t realize it either, so how could you?’’

‘’But I should have.’’

‘’It’s fine.’’

‘’…’’

‘’…’’

‘’Do you want to take a shower? You can borrow some clothes if you want.’’

‘’This dress is very annoying, yes, but you already lent me clothes that I have yet to return.’’

She knew Seph wasn’t that skilled in the kitchen, so this was most likely take out. They ate in silence, filling Sephiroth’s bed with glitter. She didn’t remove her costume either, so now a concerned angel and an anxious devil sat together eating sushi.

‘’Sushi actually tastes nice.’’

‘’First time?’’

Cloud chocked a little.

‘’Yeah.’’ She stared at the general not wanting to discuss things any further, afraid. She noticed a faded scar on her right shoulder. The thin line wasn’t alone, a few smaller ones, barely visible spreading across her arm.

‘’If you want to say something, speak.’’

‘’That scar… where do you have it from?’’

‘’Hmm… I think a pack of slum rats decided to attack me once. Nasty creatures, their wounds heal slowly and infect easily. Mine got infected because at the time I was also a cadet, and I didn’t have the resources to heal it.’’

Cloud stared at it a little longer before showing a set of marks on her leg. ‘’I got this when I was fore-fifteen? About then. I walk right into a bear trap. I was very lucky to have some other guys with me that day otherwise I would have been a goner. It took a few months for it to stop hurting me completely.’’

‘’Mn, this one-‘’ Sephiroth revealed a claw mark on her upper thigh. ‘’Some beast near Kalm a few years ago decided to become one of my victims.’’

Stories after stories, scars, and friends, Cloud got to learn a little more about the general and vice versa. It was already late in the night and the blonde’s limbs felt heavier than before, barely keeping her eyes open. But she didn’t want to fall asleep. Sephiroth was there, she was there and no one else, there wasn’t anyone who wanted to hurt her. She didn’t notice the soft strand of silver hair she was holding on to, she didn’t notice it when she dozed off.

But Sephiroth did. She looked at the smaller woman with a gentle smile. ‘’It’s fine Cloud, I won’t leave you. I’ll be here when you wake up.’’ She tucked her in again, laying beside her. She watched for some time the even rise and fall of her chest before falling asleep herself for the few hours left from the night.

Sephiroth never hated a morning meeting more than she did today. Tired and still dressed in that annoying costume she couldn’t bring herself to leave the warmth of the bed and the beauty next to her. Cloud’s blonde eyelashes were trembling slightly in her sleep, a small crease between her brow making the other woman wonder about her dreams. She knew Cloud was breathtaking from the moment she had laid eyes on her at Honey Bee Inn, and that costume last night was a true eye-catcher. But never did she have the time to admire her like this, calm and unbothered by the rest of the world. She placed a small kiss on the blonde’s forehead, before getting out of bed.

Finally, she took off that horrendous costume, combing slowly through her hair, grateful for Cloud’s care about her hair. After a warm shower, she prepared two mugs of coffee unsure about what to eat. Sephiroth went back into the bedroom to find Cloud starring at the ceiling.

‘’Good morning.’’

‘’Mornin’!’’

‘’Do you want some coffee?’’

‘’I- sure.’’

‘’Are you all right?’’

‘’I had a strange dream, a nasty one at that. It felt so real!’’

Sephiroth circled around, sitting next to the blonde. ‘’About what?’’

‘’Not sure. About someone Genova? An- and there was a dog? But a talking dog and Aerith were there and Tifa and some other people. It was so strange, but it felt so real. Don’t laugh!’’

Sephiroth couldn’t help chuckling. The small pout on her sleepy face was adorable. It felt strangely domestic. ‘’I’m not laughing. A shame that I have a meeting in an hour.’’

‘’It’s barely six a.m..’’ She groaned.

‘’Unlike you, I don’t have a free day. You should change into something else. I don’t advise walking around in your costume this early in the morning.’’

‘’Don’t you like my costume? It’s fine I’ll pass by Gen’s. I left some clothes there yesterday when he helped me tidy up.’’

They chatted for a little while before Cloud had to leave Sephiroth to prepare for the day, declining her offer to sleep some more. Truthfully she was very tired, but she didn’t dare overstay. She made sure no one was in the elevator before descending to the lower floor. She knocked at Genesis’s apartment a few times until the red-head appeared in the door frame.

‘’Don’t you have anything better to do Strife?’’

‘’I need my clothes.’’

‘’So I take it you went home with Seph?’’ A devilish grin appeared on his face. He pushed Cloud inside closing the door behind her.

‘’I won Angeal!’’ He shouted. They went into the kitchen where the three of them were eating breakfast.

‘’Morning Cloud! You won what?’’ Angeal offered her a seat.

''Cloud and Sephiroth had sex.’’ The blonde choked on a piece of fruit.

‘’Excuse you?! I did not! What the fuck Genesis?!’’

‘’So you guys didn’t have sex? But you slept at her place.’’

‘’Genesis don’t be insensitive! Cloud you don’t have to answer that if you don’t feel comfortable.’’

A blush spread on her face, turning red remembering how their lips crashed against each other, how her hands roamed on her hips and waist. ‘’We didn’t have sex… cuz I uhm… I had a panic attack and I fainted.’’

‘’…’’

‘’So you did something.’’

‘’Genesis!’’ Both Zack and Angeal glared at him.

''I take it you knew Sephiroth was also coming to the party. Well, we made out in the labyrinth and after that, we went home and we continued to make out. But I got triggered and I started to hyperventilate aaaand knock out.’’

‘’Damn blondie, are you ok now?’’

‘’I’m fine, I’m just embarrassed… I can’t believe I passed out!’’

She let her head fall on the table, while Zack rubbed circles on her back. Damn it she wasn’t going to cry, she wasn’t going to cry. But she was so frustrated with herself, all she wanted to do was to crawl in a corner and stay there.

‘’It’s ok Cloudy, it happens to us sometimes as well. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. So you and Seph?’’

‘’Donno… she said something like ‘I don’t do useless stuff’ or something. Can one of you please translate?’’ She finally raised her head to stuff another pancake in her mouth.

‘’Knowing Seph that means she took a liking to you.’’ Angeal went back to the kitchen to bring Cloud a cup of coffee.

‘’Something I had predicted a long time ago.’’

‘’So Gen, you helped me dress knowing that she was coming. And you didn’t even bother to tell me.’’

‘’Yeah, I’m a bad friend or whatever. But you wouldn’t have gone if you would have known. Irrelevant, now the question is: do you like Sephiroth?’’

‘’I-! I don’t know… She is uhm, nice but scary an-and beautiful and she’s caring…’’ Cloud felt her face turn red again. ‘’I think? Who wouldn’t like her?’’

''Go and take your clothes before you eat all my food! Have you no manners?’’ Genesis ushered the blond into the guest bedroom where her clothes lay folded neatly. ‘’Cloud think this through will you. Sephiroth rarely shows interest in someone. I want to see my friend happy, and I’ve seen her enjoying your company. For your own good and hers.’’

‘’Sure. I just don’t think she likes me. I feel like it was just something in the moment and nothing more.’’

‘’I don’t have the brainpower for this right now. Talk to her.’’

‘’I will.’’

Chapter Text

Cloud stared down at the snowy path beneath them, taking in a deep breath before hooking herself to the rock wall. There weren’t any weapons strapped to her since it would have been harder to carry the added weight. At first, she was mad, but she understood the decision to help her save stamina for when they got back on solid ground. It sucked. Being unenhanced was ill-suited for such missions. It also sucked that she hadn’t had time that day to speak with Sephiroth. The two of them got sent on opposite sides of the country each with a different mission.

Climbing down was trickier due to the thick layer of ice but she was used to it. What she wasn’t used to were bullets shot in their direction, aiming for their ropes. Luckily, they were close enough to the next platform so that the fall didn’t kill them. Just barely. Snow felt soft around Cloud. Her limbs were too heavy to lift, eyes barely open, focusing on the sound of steps coming dangerously close to her team. Oh… maybe this was the end, maybe she dies here under enemy fire. She wasn’t sure, but falling asleep seemed the better option.

Cloud woke up to the sound of a bullet hitting a rock wall. Three guards, enemy guards were discussing something while watching her raise from the ground. She was chained to a pole in the middle of the room, stripped of most of her clothes. The ringing in her ears wouldn’t stop, but she listened intently to their conversation while assessing her current situation.

"…Girl…not with them..."

"Maybe... keep her..." They laughed a little among themselves before the door opened. A tall man in similar attire, carrying two pistols entered the room with a small grin on his face. From where she was kneeling on the ground his presence was intimidating, similar to what she felt when she first met Genesis. Fear. She was afraid of this man, of this whole situation. None of her comrades were with her, she was almost naked on a cold floor. Her leg was numb, probably broken and sharp pain from her ribs indicated a fracture of two.

‘’Soldier girl, what’s your name?’’

She couldn’t bring herself to speak. Maybe it was from the fall, a throbbing headache clouding her mind.

"Sir, I can suggest some more effective methods of making her talk."

"I don’t think it is necessary. She does not have their eyes and she had no weapons."

Not having their eyes? Eyes? Solider eyes? Realization hit her, quickening her breath. They didn’t think she was a Soldier!

‘’Oh? Why so scared now? Did you hear what we said?’’

"Yes..."

He closed in, lowering himself to her eye level.

"I’ll ask again. What is your name, Soldier girl?"

"Cloud Strife." His eyes were a deep shade of blue, almost black. In the curvature of those eyes and the sharp nose, something was familiar. "And I am not a soldier!"

"Then what are you, Cloud Strife? A spy"

"No, I..."

"Hmm? What are you then?"

‘’A hunter.’’ He looked at her with a glint of distrust. ‘’Sorry, I haven’t spoken wutaian in a long time.’’

‘’It’s all right miss hunter.’’ He dragged a chair next to her pole offering a small smile. ‘’If you cooperate I promise you will not be hurt… more than necessary that is. If you aren’t a Soldier why do you wear their uniform.?’’

Fuck, right why did she wear their uniform? Think!

‘’They… they made me wear it…’’

‘’Oh? Interesting. And why would that be?’’

‘’My hunting clothes were ripped and I would have frozen to death on the mountain.’’

‘’Say, miss hunter, why were your clothes ripped apart?’’ ‘’They …did that.’’ The two guards began snickering again, passing an ‘I told you’ amongst themselves. But it was a good answer for Cloud. It gave her more credibility… hopefully. A wave of disgust passed her, but the man in front of her seemed to have believed her, maybe just a little.

‘’And how do I know you aren’t just lying your way out of a painful interrogation, miss hunter?’’

Yeah, how does he know? ‘’My back… y- if you look on my back… you wi- will see…’’ Dizziness, again. Her eyelids felt heavy, fighting the urge to collapse back on the ground, allowing the darkness to overtake again.

The man moved behind her, gently lifting her hair and shirt. He was speechless for a while, his eyes still fixed on Cloud’s back. He clenched his fist, pulling the hair back down. "They did this to you?"

"Yes..." It was hard to get out even a sound out. Her muscles slowly failed her, but to her surprise, she met her interrogator’s chest. His hand came to rest at the base of Cloud’s head, a dim green light dancing at his fingertips. The numbing pang disappeared slowly, easing some of her achings. Tears prickled her eyes when his hand slowly rubbed the area, rocking her in a steady rhythm. It felt so familiar, the way he spoke, the way his mouth curved slightly upwards when he murmured in her ear to stop crying.

A memory from long ago, of a man with a similar build holding her gently after she got cut in broken glass. Yoshino… that was his name…

"Old man..."

"Well that’s harsh, I’m not that old" The pain subdued enough to allow her to get up again.

"You remind me of … of old man Yoshino."

The guards stood alert hearing the name, exchanging worried looks. "Miss hunter, you say you are not a spy, then how come you know my name?"

"I wasn’t talking about you? I was talking about old man Yoshino Riku. Is your name also Yoshino?" Ah, she felt like she missed something. But they were truly alike, both kind but with a fierce surface – at least she hoped so. Looking at her confused face, the man supposedly named also Yoshino smiled. Their smile was also alike. He took some keys and freed her from her restraints, helping Cloud up.

"Miss hunter, I have some questions for you, but they can wait until you wake up. And yes my name is Yoshino Mike, that old man you know would be my father"

That was missing. A wave of relief washed over her taking her into a deep sleep.

The second time she woke up, her senses were mostly back. The room wasn’t spinning anymore, and most of her throbbing limbs have been treated, only the numbing of her hands bothered her. But it was better to lie tied to the bed than kneel in the cold. For now, the room was empty, a few shirts were thrown on a chair, and some keys were on a faraway table. Maybe she should sleep some more… KEYS! She almost hit her head on the chains. Good start, keys. Now how does she get out of bed? Maybe she could find the keys to the other’s cell and then they could- where were their cells anyway. Maybe a not-so-good start. At least there was a window. It was daytime, most likely the next day. Remembering her training she broke protocol when she started lying about her identity. Great. ‘’Good job Strife, now think how to get out of these chains.’’ The frame was made from metal so she had no chance of breaking it.

She flopped back down taking a few deep breaths, winching at the pain. So they healed only her head and patched her leg a little. What even happened, how did she end up in the bed? Was that guy… was he really Yoshino’s son? If he was then she had a chance to steal those keys. And then what? What about the others? If they interrogated the others and they didn’t confirm Cloud’s story then they would know she lied and they would most likely kill her. No, she couldn’t let that happen.

Cogs started turning in her head, a plan taking shape. In what felt like an hour or two the same guy – Mike? – returned with a grim expression and a bloodied fist.

‘’Good, you are awake. Those bastards weren’t of much use.’’ He wiped away the blood, taking in a few deep breaths. ‘’Cloud, was it? Why don’t you start with how you got involved with Shinra’s men.’’

‘’If I tell you, will you tell me where am I?’’

‘’Depends if I like your answer. I’m not very patient.’'

‘’I was hunting for Nible wolfs. Their territory moved south so I had to go a good distance from home. My traps caught one of their comrades apparently, and the forest monsters took care of him. When I went back to check the traps they… they-‘’ Cloud could feel a tear rolling down her cheek. Fake tears were harder to pull than she thought. Next time she would ask Genesis how to be more dramatic. ‘’I- … I don’t want to get into details… but, they carved… that… into my back so I would be too ashamed to run away and seek help. Truthfully I would have swollen my pride long ago, but I was too afraid to oppose them. They kept me around as a plaything. I was hoping something like this would happen, thank you.’’

‘’You shouldn’t be so quick to thank me missy. What if I am just as bad as those guys.’’ Truthfully he could be. From what she knew, this guy might just assault her, bound like this. It could happen.

‘’You won’t. Old man would never do that and you are a lot like him, from what I can tell. You won’t do that.’’

‘’How come you know dad? He… he died long ago.’’

‘’His last mission was in Neibleheim. He had to spend a few months in our village due to an avalanche. He stayed with me and my mom.’’ This is good. Reno said that for a good lie, you had to tell the truth. It’s good, for now. ‘’Now you answer my question: Where am I?’’

He sat down at the foot of the bed watching the blonde. Sadness brimmed in his eyes, his thin lips curving slightly downward. “This is an abandoned Shinra operative center from the beginning of the war. It was abandoned after Shinra gained much more territory having already built the reactor in Neibleheim. That area was mostly neutral, but their influence made it so that your small village became a greatly wanted area, for its resources. That was dad’s mission, to gather information about Shinra’s grasp at the time and if it would be viable for extending our territory again.’’

‘’He said his mission was interrupted, and he tried to speak with the mayor to strike an alliance against Shinra. We aren’t very friendly with Shinra ever since the reactor. But the mayor refused, putting the safety of the village first. That spring and summer he allowed old man Yoshino to stay with us until the roads would have been cleaned. He didn’t make it through the winter.’’

He rummaged through his pocket, pulling out a green orb of materia. ‘’I will make your life a living hell if you are lying to me. So, are you lying, miss hunter Cloud Strife?’’ She swallowed hard, meeting his eyes, heart thumping.

‘’I’m not lying.’’ He extended his hand, placing a cold hand on her numb leg. A soft green light spread upwards, returning feeling in the broken limb. Soon the itching sensation went away.

‘’Thank you.’’ Now she needed to heal her ribs, somehow. It was ideal to do that today.

‘’Tell me more about what happened with my father and I might let you out of those chains.’’ That was promising.

Mike did free her, but she was still locked inside his room. Her throat was dry from how much she talked, her heart aching. Mike was just like his father, a little rough on the edges, but he loved his family fiercely. It created a good opportunity for Cloud to gain his trust. He seemed desperate to find out more about his deceased dad. Surely she could gain enough trust to walk around the premises. She needed a little more time, but that raised a whole lot of problems. The interrogation of her comrades was violent. Their safety was her priority now. It’s already been a day since they haven’t contacted the base from Modeoheim. In three days they would announce them as MIA and send search parties that would most likely not find them. In seven days they would be KIA. Hopefully, she could get them out before that.

Mike left about half an hour ago to bring her some food rations. There weren’t any weapons in the room and not much to use for that same purpose either. Maybe strangle him with a shirt? Too much of a ruckus and he could break out from the hold pretty easily. She had to heal her ribs first, get a weapon or materia and find out where the others were. That’s the plan. Now how to enact it?

The door opened again and in the frame stood a taller woman, with a tray of food. ‘’Boss is busy and asked me to bring you something to eat. You gotta eat with your hands, tho. Can’t have you playing with knives or forks.'' She smiled, dropping the tray down. So Mike held power in this place. It explained why he could just take a prisoner into his room, and interrogate them privately. The tray was also useful, as a bad shield in case she got into a fight with Mike. The chains were already taken to another room. That woman didn’t have any visible weapons so maybe they weren’t allowed weapons in the base. That would complicate things.

The next day, after a long night of chatting, the wutaian seemed satisfied with Cloud’s story enough to provide her with a healing materia. Her heal materia that they confiscated before. She struggled to play the untalented caster, but she was allowed a quick stroll around the facility. They were nowhere near the holding cells, but she got a good enough idea of where the hangars were. The second day lacked progress, but she got closer to her captor so that was good. On the third day, she started getting worried. Mike had left again for interrogation only to return and throw a fit about how soldiers were a little too resilient and stubborn. At least they were still alive. That was good for now. She had to comfort him, play the victim when he brought them up and she received pity in return. Pity is useful. Pity makes people drop their guard.

On the fourth day, she successfully located the surveillance room. If she could get to the surveillance room, she would also locate the cells and then find a way to free the others. Now she needed the keys. After the chains have been removed, Mike has been keeping the keys close to him, mostly on his belt, even when he happened to sleep. Cloud was also moved from his room to the common dormitory so that her moves would be restricted even if she could walk freely around now.

She couldn’t allow frustration to cloud her mind. She had to get a weapon before she could steal the keys. The fact that they weren’t in the same room anymore also posed a problem. It seemed like all of the wutaian spies had to place their weapons in a specific room along with materia. It was a very stupid decision. Strolling around the weaponry she stumbled upon Mike mumbling with an angry expression on his face. She had an idea, a tricky one, but it was the only damned way to get those keys. She could hear them dangling on his belt. It was worth the shot.

"Hey, Mike!"

"I'm busy Strife" ‘It’s ok, just work with it’ she told herself.

"The interrogation didn’t go well, I assume." She took a step closer to him, speaking softly. "You have been stressed out these days" He finally looked down at her meeting her eyes. She took a step closer to him.

"They are awfully resilient. I despise that. I despise all of Shinra!" She placed her hand on his arm, squeezing it slightly. The frown from his brows lifted, leaving those clear black eyes to watch her movement attentively.

I could help you relax." She felt sick to the stomach, cringing at every word. She couldn’t help but think about Sephiroth being the one in front of her, looking down on her and witnessing her stupidity. It felt better this way.

His other hand came to rest on her hip, pulling her a little closer. Cloud felt her breath hitch when his thumb started rubbing circles over the thin material of her shirt. Her hand moved upwards, stroking along his upper arm, reaching his shoulder blades. His hand also moved to circle his hand around her waist, crushing Cloud’s smaller body into his. Their lips hovered over each other's, staring into those black sharp eyes. His hand moved from her back, opening the armory door, whispering in her ear.

“I don’t feel like having spectators today. Maybe some other time.’’ They were pressed against the wall, kissing hungrily, leaving no space between them. It reminded her of that night with Sephiroth, how she held her, how her silver hair would cascade around them.

Mike’s hand traveled lower groping her ass, pulling her upward. They parted for air, breathing heavily. He pulled her hair, making her face him, before biting her lip and prying her mouth open. She moaned softly, allowing him to get lost in the moment.

The room was dimly lit by to soft glow of the materia placed in several baskets. Her eyes fell on the small green glowing orbs to her left. Poison materia. She wanted to reach behind him to take one, but his back was too broad. Instead, she chose to spin them around. Mike’s back was now pressed against the wall. Her hand hooked around the belt, pulling his hips forward. The jingling sound of the keys got her attention back.

His hand lifted her leg towards his hip, their lips never parting. She snuck a hand, maneuvering the keys carefully so that he didn’t notice. The hook was hard to remove, but when she finally got them off the belt, she was stuck. The moment had to advance and he seemed to be getting impatient. She had to get out of there. He tried to maneuver her to carry her somewhere to sit, but he hadn’t properly straddled her leg over his hip, so it hit one of the materia boxes.

‘’Shit, someone might have heard us.’’ He put Cloud down with a slightly concerned expression. She couldn’t help but giggle a little. He smiled back. If it wasn’t for this situation, he didn’t seem that bad. A shame he would die soon.

‘’Let’s clean here before someone discovers their boss making out with a prisoner.’’ The dim light made it easier for Cloud to stuff the keys and materia into her pants. It wasn’t an ideal hiding place but it was enough for now.

‘’You aren’t that much of a prisoner anymore.’’ He was on his knees struggling to reach behind a few guns without disturbing the neatly stacked weapons. ‘’We will leave the base soon. If you want we can drop you off close to your village. I would like to also pay respects to my father.’’ When the last materia was back in the basket they left the room, making sure no one was around.

‘’Well then, mister Yoshino, I’m sure the old man will be thrilled to see you again. Do you know when we will leave? I want to prepare for the hour-long lecture from my dad.’’ She felt bad to lie to his face like this, but if anything happened she didn’t want her mom involved.

‘’A few days, five at best. A storm is coming next week so we have to be out of here before that. I would have liked to continue this in my room, but I have some reports to file. My door is open, should you want to join me.’’ Cloud stood on the tip of her toes and place a short kiss on his lips.

‘’If I stay any longer the guys from my room will think I ran away. But maybe another day.’’

She waved him goodbye before he could pull her back to him in a playful manner. If she had stayed any longer she would have been at risk. It left a sour metallic taste in her mouth. She felt dirty, but not that dirty. It felt bad, but she could handle it. It was her plan. She can go through with it just fine. She can be bothered by it when she gets home.

Waiting for everyone to fall asleep, Cloud counted the minutes until the shift changed. They were extremely punctual, so when she knew they were switching and hopefully chatting in the surveillance room, she cast a Bio in the closed dormitory. She held her breath walking to the door so as not to wake any of them before they met their doom. Sephiroth told her once about the amplified effects of toxins in enclosed spaces. She could finally put it to good use. Running down the hall, she made it to the surveillance room without any encounters and quickly took the guard out. He was carrying a knife. Good enough for now.

Opening the first cell, she called out her team leader’s name. Chains rattled making his presence known.

‘’Sir, it’s me, Strife, I came to get you out. I apologize for the delay.’’ She could see the greenish glow of his eyes following her every movement. ‘’Thank you for not exposing me, it helped me greatly to plan the escape.’’ He scoffed standing up when the last chain fell. He didn’t seem injured so she extended the knife and cast a Cure just for good measure. She had heard how badly they were treated.

‘’I thought you wanted to desert at first. But I heard you are under General Sephiroth’s wing so I said ‘Why not, let’s make a little bet’.’’

‘’Thank you for trusting in me, sir.’’

‘’Thank yourself when we get out of here. Where are the others?’’

‘’I know where to find them. From now we have about an hour until the next guard change when they will notice the corpse in surveillance.’’

They sneaked around to the second cell. Cloud went first, the team leader guarding the door. There was a stagnant smell of blood. There was no sound, no movement, just silence. She cast a Cure, hoping to find her comrade, but the green mist returned to her hand almost apologetically. She was too late for two of her teammates. She didn’t have time to mourn. Their time was running out.

The hangars were empty but she knew there was one helicopter left. It wasn’t much of a hangar more like a cave in the opposite direction of the wind so the snow wouldn’t get in. They were so close, speeding past cargo blocks.

‘’Fucking slut!’’ That was the only warning before a bullet shot straight through her shoulder. A sharp pain bloomed in her upper body forcing a strangled scream from her. Mike stared at her with hateful eyes, shooting another bullet that was blocked by her team leader with a random sword picked from the crates next to them.

‘’Strife, can you start a helicopter?’’

‘’Absolutely not, I’ll cover you.’’ The bullet pierced straight through her arm, so she closed the wound just barely with a Cure and swapped places with him, guarding against the incoming projectiles.

"You hate Shinra right? You want to go back to your family right? How many lies have you told me?"

"Just as many as I needed. You were a fool to trust me blindly, just because I knew your father. For all you know, I might have killed him!" Her form was balanced, the blocks slightly off, but mostly deflecting the bullets. She was slowly walking backward, praying for the engine to start.

"Did you kill him?!

"No! He died in a monster attack!"

"That's a lie!" He roared launching at her. Close combat was more advantageous for her, but her opponent was very skilled. His anger made his attacks ruthless, breaking her nose and a rib. When the nauseating smell of gas reached her, Cloud cast Bio pushing her hand close to his neck. Poison breached into his skin, his face turning a sickening pale yellow. His feet couldn’t hold him any longer. There were no final words, no tears in his eyes. Just hate. Pure hate. Adrenaline still pumping in her veins, Cloud did not allow herself a moment to rest and ran to the helicopter, jumping in the co-pilot seat.

‘’Did quite a number back there.’’

‘’Yeah…’’ The wound was open again, a concerning amount of blood soaking her clothes now. She could distantly hear the team leader speak to her, but it felt so cold, so far away.

‘’Come on, I don’t want to be here all day, just take your pill.’’ The nurse scoffed again when Cloud gulped down another glass of water with an extremely tiny pill.

‘’They are gross and taste like shit.’’ The blond stood cross-legged on a bed in the Shinra base from Modeoheim. They managed to escape and the team leader had to explain their absence and why they are in an enemy helicopter. She was spared from writing a long report, but her wound might have caused some nerve damage. Not irreversible and for that the unpleasant pills were the solution.

Cloud stared down on the pillow next to her at the green strands of ribbon that the team leader got her. When he first came to talk about how she managed to get out, she had asked him for the material. In Niebleheim it’s a practice, to signal different things with braiding styles and colors worn in said braids. She picked them up gently, as if not to break them. "I ask the Goddess for guidance, for these lost souls that perished from our side of the world. I ask for You to guide them so that they will meet in the afterlife. I thank you, Goddess, for heeding my call!" She chanted this in the old language of Nible, braiding the colored ribbons in a small braid at the base of her head. Next to where she would usually start the hunter braid with black ribbons. Tears fell. "Old man, I’m sorry… at least now you aren’t alone..."

Chapter Text

Sephiroth roared destroying another training dummy, this time cut clean in half. It was more satisfying to see the stuffing leak like human insides. It wasn’t the same, but close enough. Her anger wouldn’t die down still, and the mere fact that she couldn’t calm down enraged her further. After the reports arrived from Modoeheim, about Cloud and her team going MIA her world was slightly turned upside down. It was indeed strange, it didn’t feel the same as it did when her other friends went missing, but it wasn’t any less intense. When Genesis, Angeal, or Zack would go missing for a few days she would spend the nights either comforting his other friends or pacing around her apartment, spending sleepless nights for about a week until they would reappear again, mostly shaken that hurt. But this time was different. Her whole body had been shaking when she heard the news, breaking the pen she happened to hold in her hand.

She picked another dummy as her new target. This one perished under a Thundaga that rolled fluidly from the edge of Masume. Cloud went missing over five days ago. She was angry about having to dispatch her for recon missions, but they were easier in terms of combat if they didn’t happen to be captured. It was a big if. She didn’t want to put her in harm's way, to hide her away from the world and keep her safe. It was a strange feeling. She has been feeling like this since the Halloween party.

‘’Fuck!’’ now the wall was destroyed, great.

She flopped on the bed, not even caring about how sweaty she was. She checked her phone for the eleventh time that day, hoping to see a new report from Modeoheim come in. She was more than worried. It was eating away her soul. Until now she wasn’t sure she had one since weapons aren't meant to have emotions, but the aching in her heart made it obvious. Genesis would be helpful now, or Angeal. They understood emotions to some extent, right? They could tell her what she was feeling.

It’s been two hours since she stopped training. the office was empty by now but she could get some paperwork done until takeout arrived. She was pondering over whether to eat something or just go straight to sleep. The cafeteria was also closed. She wouldn’t hear the end of it at her next evaluation, but she couldn’t care less about Hojo’s lecture about gaining weight.

A notification sparked her interest, breaking the haze that enveloped her mind. The Science Department programmed Cloud’s first round of enhancements. But it was pointless to be scheduled for injections if she was dead. It dawned on her the possibility that Cloud could be dead. Something heavy crushed her spirit along with her breath. Sephiroth couldn’t understand what was happening to her, why she was feeling sick. Did Cloud make her sick? Impossible, in her file, there were no known transmissible diseases. Was this an emotional state?

Sephiroth quickly opened the Group chat with the other Firsts and asked about her symptoms. She didn’t expect them to answer since for both of them it was midnight or they were in the middle of the battle. To his surprise, within an hour Genesis sent a message rambling about Sephiroth’s inability to grasp human emotions and how that was the only thing she didn’t excel at. Apparently, she was worried and possibly in love.

SEPHIROTH: I agree with the first part, but I am not convinced about the second.

GENESIS: Godsess jelp ne.

SEPHIROTH: Write slower I do not understand a thing.

GENESIS: My finher is beokem. Yoi are im love.

SEPHIROTH: How can you be sure. Love is a heavy word, and I have known Cloud for far lesser time than I know any of you.

GENESIS: First off it’d beem a yeas. Secomd, you were alwaus interedted in her, evem before knoeing she waz in Soldier. Judt don’t oberthink it.

GENESIS: Finally, my finger is healed. As I was saying. You feel something strong about Cloud. Your way of feeling things is messed up. You should figure it out before she comes home.

Sephiroth closed her eyes and took a deep breath calming her racing heart.

SEPHIROTH: What if she doesn’t come home?

GENESIS: She will, she’s tougher than it seems. Believe she will return. For the fates are cruel my friend.

SEPHIROTH: Don’t start. Thank you, Genesis. How are things in Calm?

GENESIS: Pretty boring. Just some rebels calling themselves Avalanche, trying to take out some ammo trucks.

Genesis managed to keep her occupied for a few hours with plans and reports written over the phone. Around 2 a.m. Reports flooded her inbox about an old base that was transformed into a new hideout for Wutai. That report was from Cloud’s team! She was in the bathtub soaking away the worries when she received it and more than half of the water ended up on the floor. Two from the team were dead, but Cloud was alive. She had sustained a few scratches and an ugly wound from a bullet on her right shoulder. She was fine. Cloud was fine. Cloud would come home. Cloud would come home to her.

Tears prickled at her eyes, but she quickly dismissed them. Something was definitely wrong with her. Sephiroth, the strongest of the Shinra General trio, the Silver Demon never cries. She hadn’t cried since she was 5 enduring gruesome training and surgeries deep in the Shinra laboratories. But it wasn’t the same. It didn’t hurt. It was warm, like a Firaga spreading inside her body, but it didn’t burn. It was just warm. Like a fever? Maybe she needed a check-up.

Love… Sephiroth stared into the bathroom mirror, at the countless scars painting her pale skin with almost unseen pink and white cuts and bullet wounds. The battlefield was her whole life. Her oldest friend was Masume, her sword, her extension, her will. But it was never her will, to begin with. First, it was Hojo’s, then the president. So how could someone without will love?

Did she ever love before? She loves her friends… but it’s not the same. She would die for them, would burn the whole world down if something happened to them, to her family. And Cloud was now added to this family. But was she really family? The scene from her living room, how she held her so tight against her chest. Did Cloud consider her family? She already had a mother, friends, and a community back home.

Why was she even thinking about it? Who would ever love a weapon? Genesis once said that she lacked common sense. They worked through that years ago, teaching her all about superstitions and traditions and ways to function as more than a soldier. They got to emotions once. Those were haze but she managed to identify anger and worry quite well. Sadness was a hard one since she hardly got sad. Since she hardly allowed herself to be sad. The happiness was hard to distinguish in herself as well, but easier to find in others. Angeal had a fond smile whenever Zack snuggle into his chest. He was happy. Would she feel like this if Cloud was pressed against her chest? Maybe.

Finally, after a few hours of contemplating her inexistent emotions and the supposed will she never had. Another report came in about their dispatch back in Midgar. Cloud was coming home tomorrow. Another training session, another session of destroying training dummies. Genesis was far more interesting than an enemy. Three hours, four hours, five hours. After five and a half hours, finally, Sephiroth got too tired to cast. It was early in the morning. Just a few more hours and Cloud will be in the tower, somewhere where she could get to her and keep her safe.

She didn’t sleep much, broken dreams tainting her rest. The morning felt like another dream. The shower washed away the rest of her worries. There was no need for worry. Genesis and Angeal would return the following days and everyone would be home.

Sephiroth told her secretary to send a notice that her student is expected to come into her office as soon as possible after landing. It was a quiet day. Unanswered paperwork stacked on her desk seemed like the best escape from her thoughts.

A knock on the door pulled the silver-haired woman back to reality. There were two coffee mugs empty on the desk next to a neatly stacked little tower of papers.

‘’It’s Cloud Strife, ma’am!’’

‘’Come in.’’

The blonde stepped into the office, in a loose uniform, most likely borrowed from the other base. On her neck there were a few bandages showing, dressing the bullet wound. Closing the door behind her, the straight posture slumped a bit, allowing a small smile directed at the general.

‘’Reporting in.’’

‘’No need I already read the report. How are you feeling?’’ She motioned Cloud to sit on the couch next to the desk. She noticed in the tight bun she usually wore a green braid on the side of her head.

‘’I’m fine, I sometimes lose feeling in my palm, but the nurses in Modeoheim said I should be fine in a few days with the pills they prescribed. Slight nerve damage and a scathed artery. I’ve lost a significant amount of blood but we got to the base before there was irreversible damage.’’ What worried Sephiroth was not her physical state, but her mental state. Her eyes were empty, the light inside lost in a dark abyss.

‘’Change of style?’’

Cloud felt around the small braid the smile fading. ‘’It’s a tradition from back home. A mourning practice. It should’ve been a bigger more complex braid, but my arm isn’t well enough yet to be able to keep it raised for long enough.’’ She looked miserable when she spit the words out.

‘’Pardon my question, but who are you mourning? If it’s the team members you lost in the base then it’s a waste of energy.’’ There was lingering anger behind those deep blue eyes. Had she said something wrong? It was true that Sephiroth saw no use in mourning practices, regardless of their nature. It only brought more pain to the people executing them. The people were already dead. There was no need to linger.

‘’…’’

‘’I have upset you.’’

‘’That was insensitive.’’

‘’I apologize, but I do not understand the use of it. They will not be here to witness it.’’ Cloud’s eyes unfocused on the floor, her breathing steady. Sephiroth was unsure if she was supposed to help or give her space.

‘’Have you ever mourned someone? Did you feel the grief of losing someone dear to you?’’

‘’The only people close enough to me are alive and well, one of them standing in front of me.’’ She could see a faint blush coloring Cloud’s expressionless face. ‘’But I have not experienced grief. How does it feel?’’

‘’It hurts like hell, it makes you feel empty inside. It’s not so much sadness, in the beginning, mostly silence. Then you remember that person, you remember the time spent with them. And you cry, maybe or you break something to make you feel better. It never does make you feel better, but it’s a way to grieve.’’

‘’Were you close to one of the deceased?’’

‘’Not from the team. Our captor, Mike Yoshino was the son of Riku Yoshino.’’

‘’You told me about him once.’’

‘’I killed old man Yoshino’s son.’’ She choked on the words but she couldn’t stop them from coming out. She explained in great detail how she spent the days, gaining his trust and remembering an old wound from the past. She didn’t shed one tear, but her voice trembled with every mention of his name.

‘’I may understand grief a little better now.’’ She was still in the office chair watching Cloud attentively.

‘’Hopefully, because I’m not explaining a second time.’’ She smiled again. A tired smile, she seemed tired. Sephiroth stepped closer to her, kneeling to meet Cloud’s eyes. But her attention was drawn to her left hand, where her fingertips had a sickening color, purple and swollen. Cloud’s breath staggered when she gently pulled the injured palm to lay in her hand. It was cold.

‘’Poison materia shouldn't have this strong of an effect on the caster. I warned you about using this kind of materia indoors. Even if you inhaled it shouldn’t have had this effect on you.’’ She almost whispered massaging her fingertips. It was warm again, deep in her core, it felt warm having Cloud close like this.

‘’I didn’t inhale it. I had no time to release it in the air, so I condensed it in my hand and I kinda.’’ She moved her hand in a choking motion. Sephiroth couldn’t help feel warmer. Happier? Probably happier. An emotion.

‘’That was reckless!’’ She squeezed her hand a little too tight, causing the blonde to hiss in pain. Their eyes met, and seeing the red eyes and almost unnoticeable strands of gold embroidered in the deep blue of her eyes Sephiroth felt her heart skip a beat. ‘’Never do that again. I will find you a suitable weapon to help you with materia. Even if it was reckless, it’s a sign of a natural caster.’’ Sephiroth put her hand on Cloud’s head. ‘’You did well in your mission.’’

‘’Thank you.’’

‘’I have good news, you have been scheduled for your first mako injections in two weeks. By then your shoulder should be healed completely.’’ Another knock jolted Sephiroth to her feet, abandoning Cloud’s hand on the couch. Her secretary entered the office with another stack of papers, reminding Sephiroth about another meeting, and the last for the day that she would be late at if she stalled any longer. She thanked the smaller woman, then turned her attention back to Cloud.

‘’I apologize, but I have to go. If you are free tonight, would you like to join me for dinner?’’

‘’I wanted to ask you about… you know….’’ She turned her head slightly to the side, trying to hide a blush. Cute.

‘’We should talk., tonight, if you wish to come.’’

‘’I will just because you will burn water if you try to cook. See you later!’’ She waved, leaving Sephiroth alone. She felt feverish, it wasn’t just physical want, no she found Cloud interesting as a whole. But seeing her blush, seeing her smile determined Sephiroth to keep the blonde just to herself. It’s been a year since she had first laid eyes on the blonde, maybe she had waited longer than she ever had with a partner. Maybe because it wasn’t just lust. Maybe it was more.

Chapter Text

The walk back to her apartment was quiet, the third floor being empty. Most of the people have already been dispatched to battlefronts, fighting for their life. But not Cloud. She was stuck here. But it was fine. She would get enhancements soon. She could fight soon.

The common showers were empty, like the hallways. Dread crept up in her mind draining the energy gained from her interaction with Sephiroth. She had killed Yoshino’s son. She couldn’t even bear to look at her hands now, one of them swollen and purple, proof of her murder. Was it even considered murder if it was a fair fight? He would have probably killed her if he had the chance, but it still felt wrong. She abused his trust, in Yoshino’s memory to gain something in her interest.

Cloud felt sick again. She hadn’t eaten since the morning of the day before when the team leader had forced her to swallow down some atrocious-looking soup. Would she be able to eat anything today? Hopefully at dinner.

Zack messaged her earlier, about a gaming night this week when he gets back in Midgar but she didn’t feel up to it. Dropping on her bed, Cloud let a muffled moan. Maybe another Cure will fix up her shoulder. the phone screen lit up showing Aerith's number.

AERITH: Well look who’s alive! It would have been nice to not be ignored for a few weeks.

CLOUD: I’m sorry Aer, I wasn’t up to it.

AERITH: Are you ok?

CLOUD: More shaken up than hurt. I messed up Aer… I-I mes-messed up… bad!

She couldn’t help the tears from falling. At least she didn’t cry in front of Sephiroth, but it hurt so bad. She felt like a disappointment, like a failure.

AERITH: Oh, Cloud, it’s all right, I’m sure it’s nothing you can’t fix.

But it was! He wasn’t coming back, she had disappointed Yoshino, she had killed his son.

AERITH: Why don’t you come by my place tonight so we can talk? I have a few things to pick up from sector 7 if you feel up to joining me?

CLOUD: I can’t… - she whipped the tears away trying to compose herself – I’m having dinner with someone tonight.

AERITH: A date!? And how come I didn’t know about your hidden romance?

CLOUD: It’s not a hidden romance! It’s with someone from work. Wanna meet tomorrow? If it goes well I’ll tell you about it. But be warned Aerith Gainsburg, should you betray my trust you shaln’t walk another day on this earth!

They both chuckled.

AERITH: If you are well enough to joke then you should be well enough for that ‘work dinner’. You are such a bad liar.

CLOUD: Am not! For your knowledge, I am quite the actor… got me out of some… problems…

AERITH: Ok, ok don’t get depressed! You are a good actor! The best! But if you want to talk, my door is always open.

CLOUD: Thanks Aer. I appreciate it. I’m going to sleep it off. See you tomorrow?

AERITH: Sure, sweet dreams.

Only that her dreams were not sweet, they recalled the events from the mission. Broken dreams and fragments of memories from long ago when she had first learned how to fight. Her first Fire casting, was when she managed to light a fire in the forest without burning anything. Yoshino taught her so much and how was she repaying him?

She opened her eyes. 8 p.m. She should get ready. Sephiroth had sent her a message about an hour ago. Cloud mulled over what to wear, but she ended up with a plain black shirt and some loose pants. She stared at her left hand trying to flex the fingers, then the wrist but she stopped mid-way due to the pain.

Strangely enough, she had gotten used to taking the elevator up to the First’s floor, the access card tucked away in her pocket. Sephiroth gave it to her when she became her student. Surprisingly, a flash of silver hair greeted her when the door opened.

‘’Hey, you going down?’’

‘’I was coming to check on you. You didn’t answer my messages.’’

‘’Sorry, I fell asleep.’’ She couldn’t believe her eyes, Sephiroth smiled at that. She placed a hand on her lower back guiding her into the apartment. It felt grounding, like there was something to latch on into this reality, to not return into the chaotic painful world of dreams.

‘’You had a few rough days, it’s good that you slept. I took the liberty of ordering some sushi. I hadn’t eaten it in a while so I hope you don’t mind.’’

‘’At this point, I’m grateful it’s not cafeteria food. Thank you.’’ She was most grateful for not having to use her hand.

The dinner was quiet with the pleasant hum of light conversation. They spoke about many things, movies, and books that Sepiroth liked and recommended to her, about foods and deserts Cloud used to cook with her mother.

‘’How about your parents?’’

‘’I have never met my mother, all I know about her is that her name is Jenova. My father… I cannot call him a father. Hojo.’’

‘’I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to.’’

‘’It’s quite all right, it doesn’t bother me.’’

‘’I have never met my father either, he died before I got to meet him.’’

‘’Mine is a crazy scientist who uses me as his main project.’’ Cloud almost choked on a sushi roll, seeing the mischievous grin that Sephiroth shot her.

‘’I’m sorry?’’

‘’I’m not that sorry, I wouldn’t have gotten to meet you if it had been any other way.’’

‘’Oh.’’

‘’Speaking of you, how is your hand?’’

‘’The same. I don’t know what’s wrong with it, the nurse back in Modeoheim said that with the pills she gave me it should heal in a few days.’’

‘’Let’s go in the living room, it’s more light there. If you don’t mind me taking a look?’’

Pressed in the white sofa Cloud waited patiently for Sephiroth to join her after gathering the remaining dishes and putting them away, even if the blonde was ready to fight to help her. She was dismissed on the sofa with a glance like a misbehaving dog. That must be how Zack feels all the time.

Sephiroth reappeared with her hair tied back in a loose ponytail. The defined muscles on the arms and torso accentuated the ethereal air she was giving, even dressed in a tank top and sweatpants. She sat down next to her, putting pressure gently on her palm checking for discomfort. But it didn’t hurt that much, there wasn’t much feeling there, to begin with. She continued to check around for dislodged joints even if there weren’t any visible wounds. She pressed a little harder on the wrist where the purple coloration started to fade, causing Cloud to hiss in pain.

‘’I’m sorry. You said you circulated a Bio through your hand. What kind of poison material was it?’’

‘’What kind?’’ Sephiroth pulled a green material tracing with her fingertips the edges of her palm.

‘’What do you mean?’’ The swelling subsided and some feeling returned alongside with a deep ache like her bones were pulsating.

‘’Poison materia is different depending on the area in which it developed. This kind of reaction reminds me of abrus precatorius more commonly known as rosary pea. It’s a neurotoxin. Circulating it in your system may be the reason your nerves cannot properly heal even under treatment. Might I ask what pills you are on?’’

‘’Mosachillix.’’

‘’That’s concerning. Do you have a fever?’’ Sephiroth took her temperature and measured her pulse from her neck, leaving goosebumps on every place she touched.

‘’Wh-why would I have a fever?’’

‘’That treatment is for Soldiers only due to the high mako concentration and reactivity with the mako within oneself. For normal humans, it may cause fever, loss of appetite, and loss of consciousness. None of those happened I hope?’’

‘’I don’t think so. I haven’t been eating that much but it’s not from the treatment.’’

‘’We should go down to medical tomorrow morning to make sure it won’t cause any problems.’’ Sephiroth continued to massage her hand mindlessly, examining the rest of her body. Cloud couldn’t help shiver under her gaze.

This closeness, if she pulled a little to the left she could lean on the general’s side. ‘’Sephiroth, why did you kiss me back then?’’ The room went quiet, even her long skillful hands paused the ministration, causing Cloud to almost sigh in frustration. At least the pain wasn’t as bad anymore.

‘’I am not entirely sure. It felt right in the moment…’’

‘’Oh, ok.’’ Idiot, stupid, how could you hope for something else? Something cracked inside Cloud. Sephiroth noticed the emptiness in her eyes. Her gaze fixed on the floor, Cloud’s shoulders slumped.

‘’Ah, you may have understood me wrong. I kissed you, Cloud because it felt right because it was you. I have a strange relationship with emotions, I do not understand them most of the time. Genesis said the way I feel about you is romantic? I am not sure. But I do care for you, Cloud.’’ So it wasn’t just false hope. It was true.

‘’That’s the strangest confession I have ever heard.''

''I am a strange individual.’’

“I’m also weird.’’ Cloud’s hand gave a small squeeze to Sephiroth’s. She pulled the smaller hand close to her lips, kissing the ivory knuckles gently, smiling ever so slightly. Their eyes met, and Cloud smiled back. She would second guess this later, when she wasn’t pulled to sit in Sephiroth’s lap, when those gentle yet strong hands roamed on her body, when the feverish need to press closer to the general was gone. For now, her mind was filled with a pleasant emptiness, energy threatening to burst through Cloud’s skin, just like her heart was hammering against her ribcage.

Sephiroth hummed appreciatively when Cloud began to also run her palm up her arms and chest finally cupping her cheek. There was a painfully obvious hesitance in her movement, but it made the moment sweeter. She allowed the younger to explore her body, without daring to tug at the hem of her shirt. She was adorable, with that rosy blush painting event the tips of her ears red.

------------------------------------------ (Beware: sex and stuff) -------------------------------------------------

The blonde came to a sudden stop, pressing her lips in a thin line.

‘’It’s still bothering you?’’

‘’Sorry for breaking the moment. It’s pretty annoying.’’

‘’No need to apologize. What do you want to do?’’

‘’Continue…’’ She could barely get the words out, burning with embarrassment.

‘’Continue what? Grinding on me?’’ She grinned! Cloud crossed her hands, pouting.

‘’Go on tease me then!’’

‘’I am serious. I have told you how I feel about you. I am curious to hear your thoughts. Why did you come to my apartment that night?’’

‘’…’’ She couldn’t tell her could she? She had asked, but it was so embarrassing. How could she say that she had had a crush on her since adolescence, that she was smitten with every interaction, that she slowly distanced her from the image of the idol the Shinra advertised her to be. That she started to crave interactions with her, that she felt safe in her presence, that she became a good friend of Cloud’s, that she wanted to cling just a little longer to her during movie nights.

She was painfully aware of her reddening face, of her quick breaths. ‘’I did that because… I did it because I wanted … to … to be closer to you.’’ She blurted out the last few words.

‘’And why did you want that?’’ Sephiroth’s hands settled on her hips.

‘’Don’t tease~’’

‘’I am not, but you have to speak properly if you want to continue.’’

‘’I … I like you…’’ She whispered. The older woman seemed content with the answer, smashing their lips together again in a passionate kiss. This one was slower, putting everything they could not yet express in words into a pure burning touch.

Sephiroth maneuvered them carefully so that Cloud lay underneath her, mindful of her wounded arm. They would go down to medical to change her medication into something more suitable for her current body. Tomorrow. For now, she focused on nipping at her neck, earning sharp intakes of air, little moans when she bit the lobe of her ear. The blue eyes were transfixed on the strong muscles moving under Sephiroth’s pale skin.

Sephiroth was beautiful, but she could barely focus on the graceful movement when the pleasure was so overwhelming. She stopped at the hem of her shirt waiting for approval. Cloud could barely breathe, but she nodded. It was strangely comforting how she grazed her sides, cupping her breasts.

‘’It’s not- fair… being the only one shirtless...’’

‘’Maybe, but I want to focus on you tonight.’’ Sephiroth lowered her head in the crook of her neck, breathing in the smell of medication and cheap soap. The tension she had been feeling these past few days, since her return to Midgar has finally dissipated, replaced with a warm feeling every time the blond moaned underneath her.

She slid her hands in Cloud’s pants reveling in the surprised gasp followed by a hard bite on her shoulder to muffle a moan. Her face was red with embarrassment and Sephiroth was livid, wanting to wreck the smaller woman. But with the shoulder wound, she would have to be careful.

‘’Well aren’t you eager?’’ Sephiroth teased along the wet stripe forming on her underwear.

‘’Whose fault is- that?’’

‘’What do you want Cloud?’’ She could back out if it was too much.

‘’I want you… I’m not sure what to do, it’s my first time with a woman and…’’

‘’Then let me take charge. Maybe now you will be able to follow my orders.’’

‘’It was one time- ah!’’ She whimpered as Sephiroth’s teeth sank into her neck, licking and nipping red marks around her collarbones, while the long fingers circled her clit, earning a few muffled moans by her own hand.

‘’Don’t hide, I want to hear all, I want to see all of you.’’ Sephiroth removed her hand and pants, leaving Cloud only in her underwear. Nothing fancy but the bruised skin and black boxers painted a gorgeous picture. Slowly she took off her underwear placing herself between Cloud’s legs. Pampering the milky white thighs with little kisses she finally reached her cunt, now soaking wet waiting for the older woman to taste her.

‘’And here I thought you would be blonde everywhere.’’ She teased, spreading her legs further.

‘’Shut up, I don’t think you’re all silver.’’

‘’Don’t be so sure. You may just have to find that out for yourself. But not tonight.’’

Her tongue was soft against Cloud. She never had someone treat her so gently, remembering the first time she had sex with one of the ironsmith’s apprentices two villages down the mountain. It was quick and rough and messy. Sephiroth’s slim fingers traced around the folds, while her tongue massaged, in a practiced motion, her clit, sending sparks of pleasure up her spine. With the other hand, she traced patterns on her breasts pinching them from time to time.

Warmth pooled in her lower area. She whimpered when Sephiroth’s tongue slipped inside her, tasting her insides, making her squirm. She never noticed that Sephiroth had a longer tongue than average, not by much but it could reach just enough to reduce Cloud to a sobbing mess of moans. She found that Sephiroth’s fingers were more satisfying than her mouth alone, loving the small stretch of the three of them being inserted. The older woman continued to stimulate her with her tongue maintaining a steady pace, alternating between curling her fingers to find a particular spot that made Cloud see white and fucking the blonde with her fingers. It felt too much and too little at the same time, as she could feel the approach of an orgasm. It felt like a few hours had passed but at the same time, it was too fast.

The older woman kept Cloud from moving too much, as she tried to touch Sephiroth in return for her ministration. Her own pussy felt uncomfortably wet, but she didn’t care about it. If Cloud were to touch her, to pleasure her, it would be too much feeling for Sephiroth to process. She would get lost in too many sensations. The blonde didn’t seem to get why she refused to be touched in any way, but the heavy hand on her chest stopped her from reaching out.

The warmth became a scorching hot core that threatened to swallow her whole, as she almost reached the peak of pleasure.

‘’Please, please, please just a little more! Ple- ah!’’

‘’I believe we agreed that I will be giving orders tonight. Cum for me, Cloud’’

Finally, an overwhelming amount of pleasure spread through her body, choking out a broken sob that somewhat resembled a moan. Sephiroth crushed her lips in a fiery kiss, never ceasing her ministrations, until Cloud’s muscles stopped quivering, tightening around her fingers. The older woman brushed away a tear, before removing her shirt.

‘’Th-that was… that was…’’

‘’The beginning. I’m not done with you for tonight Strife, not until your legs stop working and the only thing left on your mind is me.’’ She picked up the spent blonde, mindful of her wound, to the bedroom, where she would thoroughly ravish her.

------------------------------------------- (end of sex and stuff) -------------------------------------------------

After a few hours, Cloud took a shower for the third time in Sephiroth’s apartment changing into a long shirt of hers. In the end, she could barely walk or think for that matter. Never in her life did she feel so content and, strangely enough, relaxed. This time she shared a bed with Sephiroth. They cuddled close, neither of them wanting to let go of the other. Sephiroth’s body enveloped her whole, like a shield, protecting her from the outside world.

After they were done, she insisted on casting an Esuna on the blonde, hoping to heal the damage caused by the poison without going down to medical. Seeing her efforts go to waste, as the spell faded in the air before making contact with the skin, Sephiroth decided to wait for the next day to try again with a clearer mind.

At three in the morning, Cloud wasn’t bothered by the dull throbbing in her arm. Sephiroth massaged her scalp slowly, watching the smaller woman fall asleep, safe, in her arms where no harm could come to her.

Chapter Text

‘’Stop that.’’

‘’Sorry I’m nervous…’’ Her leg continued to bounce even if Sephiroth’s hand held it down.

‘’I don’t like doctors either, but there is no need for you to be anxious. Dr. May is a nice woman. The stranger doctors you will meet later when you receive your enhancements, but until then you are still under infantry doctors.’’ Sephiroth didn’t smile, but she squeezed Cloud’s thigh to reassure her.

The glass doors swung open, a middle-aged woman with curly black hair and a stern face came into the waiting area.

‘’New faces. What’s Hojo's play-thing doing here?’’

‘’Hello, Doctor May. I came here with my student concerning some medication she received in Modeoheim. I came because Cloud isn’t up to date with medical treatment for Soldiers yet.’’

‘’I don’t care about the details, I have other patients aside from you. Miss Strife is it? I have your file here and while the pills you were prescribed aren’t fit for a normal human, your blood tests show a higher concentration of mako than usual, hence the medications. Do you have any adverse symptoms?’’

‘’No, but the wound will not heal and I have a dull pain in my arm.’’

She sighed theatrically, ‘’Come inside. Take your shirt off and lay on the table. Now, from what I can see it’s nothing to be worried about, but I do recommend not using your arm as much, possibly avoiding harsh physical strain. Other than that, blood tests would be needed but you already have your first round of shots in two weeks. The mako should fix you up regardless of whether the pain is from the medication or the wound itself.’’

‘’Is it safe for her to-‘’

‘’Ask yourself that Sephiroth.’’ Surprisingly, the general went quiet.

The two of them left floor 48 and returned to Sephiroth’s apartment, where the silver-haired woman started preparing for another day spent in the office. Cloud prepared a simple breakfast and they enjoyed it in a strained silence. The blonde was curious about the strange interaction with the doctor but decided against asking about it. Sephiroth seemed tense for some reason and she didn’t want to wreak the sample of sanity she had left, before meeting with Aerith.

They parted ways, Cloud running towards the train. She didn’t want to miss helping Aerith with the flower deliveries. The smog underneath the plate filled her lungs just as the sour taste of the doctor's visit persisted on her tongue.

Then shame overcame her when she turned the corner, facing a wall filled with flowers and vines. The safe heaven of nature in a world of steel and rust was calling out to Cloud. The brunette woman stood on the porch smiling softly. The cart was nowhere to be seen.

‘’Hey, what got you so worked up?’’

‘’A fuck ton of shit that decided to hit the fan in the past week.’’

‘’I have just the tea for a story like that!’’ There was a hint of understanding in her tone. Elmira had left the city for a transport of vervain. As the local pharmacist, she would have to restock often with cheap alternatives for numerous treatments that were inaccessible to the majority.

‘’First off, are you ok physical level?’’

‘’I got nerve damage that won’t heal no matter what. Went to the doctor today, got my head filled with bullshit and apparently I have an abnormally high concentration mako.’’

‘’Want me to try?’’

‘’ Sure.’’

Cloud slid off her top while Aerith kneeled in front of her, clutching the small materia and assessing the scar. She puffed a breath fingertips turning a soft green. She was channeling?

Her hand felt oddly warm? She was used from when Genesis and Sephiroth healed her to have a precise and harsh even if it was shooting. But hers was different. The light spread around on her arm like, like…. Veins. But oh was it painful. It felt like she was casting that poison, again and again, her tissue being broken apart yet again. There was no evidence of her pain as the skin didn’t break and the swelling disappeared. With the purple pigmentation completely gone the pain subsided as well.

Aerith blinked a few times before returning her attention to Cloud. She set the materia to the side checking for discomfort.

‘’That should do it.’’

‘’How- Not even Seph… actually she isn’t that good of a healer. But still how? And that, that-‘’

‘’Shhhhh. Shut up and thank me. Now drink your tea and tell me what happened.’’

‘’Ok, but you answer my questions after.’’ Once she started talking she couldn’t stop. She also couldn't stop the tears from falling. Aerith pulled her in a crushing hug giving Cloud a shoulder to cry on. She killed people, she killed someone who put his trust in her.

Three hours later Cloud lay on the flower bed, watching Aerith prepare a few packages for delivery.

‘’Now Gainsbourg, it’s your turn to speak. What was all that sparkly shit you did to heal my arm?’’

‘’That was a proper Curaga thank you very much. Aren’t you taught that?’’

‘’Well, I am taught that: using my body to cast instead of taking the energy outside and molding it into what I need it to be, is dangerous. That’s how I got here in the first place.’’

‘’No, you are just a dummy. It’s hard to explain. I do it because it feels right. You got backlash because you were afraid of the power. Humans tend to do that.’’

‘’Humans? You know what? I’m not going to ask.’’

''Right, how did that date of yours go?’’ Cloud Blushed profoundly, grabbing Aerith’s arm to force her to sit down.

‘’I’ll tell you only and only if I have the certainty that you will keep this just between the two of us. No one can know, not even Elmira. ‘’

‘’I feel like you’re gonna tell me some classified shit.’’

‘’Ok so… so… the person whom I went to dinner, well we didn’t really go to dinner we ate some sushi in her apartment- irrelevant. Ok, so I may or may have not slept with Sephiroth…’’

The disbelief in Aerith’s eyes turned to amazement, excitement, and curiosity in a few seconds. She clutched her hands to her chest beaming a bright smile and laughing maniacally.

‘’Your reaction scares me especially after the sparkly bullshit.’’

‘’I can
‘I can’t believe you had sex with THE FIRST GENERAL OF SHINRA, SILVER DEMON OF WUTAI, THE STRONGEST WOMAN FROM GAIA! YOU FUCKED FUCKING SEPHIROTH!?’’

‘’First off, she fucked me-‘’

‘’Bottom.’’

‘’And second, I can’t believe it either. And it wasn’t just sex. She tried to confess but ended up making me confused, but I get the feeling.’’

‘’SHE CONFESSED WHAT EXACTLY?’’

‘’Can you, please, stop screaming? At this rate, the whole sector will know my sexual history.’’

‘’Yeah, sorry, sorry. But… it’s wow… and how was it?’’

‘’I almost passed out from orgasms.’’

‘’Ok, I want details. Gimme details!’’

The two of them returned inside for another cup of tea talking about Cloud’s date. Aerith had to reassure her over and over again that Sephiroth seems to be interested in her and not just in it to torment the blonde. Selling flowers seemed the logical end to an intense debate about sex and feelings, namely getting Cloud to admit having a celebrity crush and a crush crush on Sephiroth.

Reno downed the fifth cup of coffee of the day, reviewing another batch of reports from newbies. Surprisingly they had transitioned nicely into the turk lifestyle, unlike the previous generation. Such a shame most of them will die before they got to turn thirty. At least they get paid well. Cissnei took his mug of coffee and set it on her desk.

‘’Very funny Cissy, now give it back.’’

‘’You will die of a heart attack at this rate.’’

‘’Oh nooo… I’m so scared.’’

‘’Very funny. Boss is looking for you.’’

Reno ruffed her hair before running down the hall, trying to avoid an incoming knife. He hadn’t seen Rude in a few days, hopefully, he wasn’t dead. He would have to do his paperwork for a change. Standing in front of the VP’s door, the red-head attached a sly smile on his face.

‘’Yo! Big boss, heard ya looking for me!’’

Rude stood next to Tseng on a couch sipping something close to alcohol. Rufus did that sometimes, to keep a close relationship with the higher regarded turks, he would take them out for drinks or simply enjoy a private chat.

‘’Hello Reno, you look… like you had better days.’’

‘’I hate taking care of new kids. And playing Hojo’s rent boy isn’t as fun as it seems.’’

‘’I see.’’ He handed Reno a glass of whisky returning to his favorite armchair. ‘’I wanted to discuss something… unofficial.’’

‘’Drama, I like it.’’ Alcohol doesn’t mix well with sleepless nights but oh well.

‘’Reno, watch your tone!’’ Rude seemed to be also on edge. His perfect attire was… not so perfect. There was a small stain on his dress shirt, blood most likely, BUT A STAIN! ON RUDE!

‘’At least I’m not the only one looking like shit. What mission did you even give him?’’

‘’Confidential. But I agree working for Hojo is a hassle.’’

‘’That isn’t changing too soon. To get out of this situation we have two main options. The current president bites the dust or he loses interest in this mad hunt for Neo-Midgar.’’ Rufus Shinra, a man that knows no fear, sighed.

‘’We advancing ahead of schedule?’’

‘’No, but I found something interesting. Read this file, they have already seen it.’’

When Reno opened the envelope, his eyes slightly widened.

Subject CS-10945
Sex: Female
Place of birth: Nibleheim
Date of birth: 11.08.1986
.
.
.
.
Solider candidate
Mentor: Sephiroth Crescent
.
.
.
.
Notes:
Weak women have no place in my program, but this one presents a concentration of mako higher than the average human. Possibly a high tolerance for mako. Subject for procreation experimentation-

‘’For fuck sake Strife.’’

‘’It’s odd for Hojo to express interest for someone other than excellent samples and Sephiroth. I also gather that you know this CS-10945?’’

‘’Yeah, she’s a good fighter, I wanted her to become a turk but someone wouldn’t pick her.’’

‘’Her psychological exams were lacking’’ Tseng spoke with an even tone.

‘’What is even more interesting is the fact that Sephiroth took her in as a student.’’

‘’Wait ‘till you find out how she made nice with all the firsts plus Zack.’’

‘’I will keep that in mind for later. But this gives us leverage to bring Sephiroth on our side.’’

‘’Hostage? Death threats?’’

‘’I’d rather not get on her bad side. This girl has become a point of mild interest for Hojo, for … various projects…’’ Reno shivered thinking about what procreation entailed. ‘’Claudia Strife is scheduled for her first mako shots in 12 days. After Hojo is done playing with her, depending on her relationship with Sephiroth and the other Firsts we may be able to use her as a bargaining token. Safety for the girls and their loyalty lies with me before it lays with my father.’’

‘’Rufus I have to object. While I agree that in order to take control, is this woman the best choice? Their entanglement may be strictly professional for all we know.’’

‘’I believe it’s more than that. Be it Sephiroth’s attitude at formal events – that Halloween party underplate – or when Strife went MIA, I am 78% sure my plan has a solid base.’’

‘’ And the rest 22%?’’

‘’Pray that my math is wrong.’’

Reno finished his drink watching Rufus intently. He was also tired. The war was wearing on everyone, especially since his father slowly disappeared from his administrative position opting to bed Scarlet or play some golf. In the middle of a fucking war. Rufus took over his attributions, and yet the old man held more power in the governing of the Shinra empire than him. They couldn’t forcibly take control of the power. Solider took orders from him. (truthfully if the three generals switched sides so would the rest of Solider) The other problem was Hojo and his fucked up experimentation. Rufus appointed them as his little assistants to keep an eye on the scientist. His creations were nightmare fuel, literally. Then there was Aerith that had confirmed for them a long while ago that, no the Promise Land is a mistranslation and in fact, it refers to death. Why none of the heads of research regarding this subject decided to listen to the last fucking Cetra left on Gaia, was a mystery to him. The only guaranteed asset that Rufus had at that moment was the turk network.

‘’Cloud and Sephiroth have a weird thing going on, but there is chemistry and I’m pretty sure it’s not just about sex. She has Zack on speed dial. Their best buddies. Angeal I’m sure adopted her and I’ve seen Genesis helping her train a few times.’’

‘’Little princess of the Firsts I see.’’ Tseng sipped from his glass again thinking of possible outcomes.

‘’Also she has connection underplate, queue Andreea Rhodea.’’

‘’Isn’t it strange for a Soldier candidate to be benched for so long? It’s been what? More than a year since she joined.’’

‘’That is none of my problems. Honestly, do you think I have a shot?’’ It was rare, but Rufus considered them to be his friends. They were. It wasn’t only loyalty that kept them together, but also their friendship.

‘’Donno, if you ask me we might as well ask Gen to burn this shithole to the ground and he might do it just for fun. I’m with you.’’

‘’It’s an interesting approach. Let’s see where tomorrow takes us.’’ Rude yawned. Poor guy must be working on two brain cells to allow such a human response for once during the job. That or he drank too much again.

‘’I believe in you, Rufus, but I have to say this is a stupid idea.’’

Rufus smirked filling Reno’s glass again. Looking towards the sleepless city painted in red by the dawn, he raised his glass.

‘’To stupid ideas!’’

Reno was sure at this rate he won’t make it to thirty.

Chapter Text

Genesis flopped on the couch closing his eyes. The house was deathly quiet. Zack and Angeal are coming home the day after tomorrow. Zack would come back as a First class. A smile crept up his lips.

‘’Why is this kitchen a mess? I swear I left only a day before them.’’

Doing domestic chores was relaxing. It took off the edge of the past few days. Playing pyromaniac for a few weeks isn’t fun. Even if it feels sometimes like an occasion to let loose, it’s taxing. Materia was his second friend after Angeal and using it for things such as killing people felt off sometimes. Just sometimes. Other times flames danced along his arms hungry to consume anything in its path.

SEPHIROTH: Welcome home.

GENESIS: That report will not land on your desk for another week.

SEPHIROTH: I didn’t expect it any sooner. Do you want to have dinner tonight?

GENESIS: And here I was thinking you will spend every living moment with your Chocobo.

SEPHIROTH: Cloud has her first round of shots.

GENESIS: Ugh, awful. Want to grab something by the edge on sector 5? There is a new seafood restaurant I’ve been dying to try. See you at 9, I need some sleep.

SEPHIROTH: Very well.

But he wouldn’t sleep of course, since there is so much to get done in this house.

The spotless white halls were intimidating, to say the least. The secretary at the desk walked slowly in front of Cloud, leading her through two steel doors. There was a thundering anxiety pooling inside Cloud’s mind.

‘’Professor Hojo is running a little late due to a meeting. Please seat yourself on the bed and wait for his arrival.’’

‘’Yes, thank you.’’

The rhythmical mechanic sound of the fans kept Cloud in a disoriented haze. It smelled awfully familiar, like that thing from before she joined Soldier, that night when she saw Reno and the other turk incinerating … something. Dread crept up her spine, but before she could get up and investigate, the door swung open, revealing a skinny man in a lab coat, with hair slicked back in a ponytail. He looked greasy, annoyed, and terrifying.

‘’Those imbeciles! Defunding my genetic engineering project due to some lost causes.
Madness, absolute madness! You, woman, why are you here?’’

‘’I’m Claudia Strife, I’m here for my first round of mako shots.’’

‘’Ah yes, Strife, I have your file right here. Hmm… interesting… interesting…’’

He continued to mumble to himself for a few minutes, scribbling something on his paper. Finally, he came to hook Cloud on a few different machines, checking her vitals.

‘’Female specimens are usually more prone to develop mako coma, but also develop less under its effects. I find it interesting that your concentration of mako is innately high, half of a Third Class actually. I suppose that was one of the factors that influenced your passing. While a lower dose of mako would be needed to pump you up to a standard Third Class, with the accomplishments on your record, you have made yourself not as useless as you would seem. I suppose I can be generous with you dosage.''

‘’How much would that be?’’ Sephiroth instructed her to ask about dosages and concentration values. She said to not oppose unless it passes a 70% concentration to avoid being put in a coma, or mutating.

‘’Who do you think you are questioning me. You should feel honored that I waste my time and resources on a weakling like you.’’

The machines came uncomfortably close to her face, restraining her limbs further. She could see some pumps being filled up with a green liquid, mako. This was wrong, everything was wrong.

‘’Stop struggling! Do not waste my time, woman.’’ Hojo, with an unsettling grin, pushed a needle through her skin, the dim light of the liquid spreading through her arm. It burned. It burned as nothing had burned before. A scorching blaze set afire underneath her skin, spreading through her body.

Tears pooled in her eyes, but she didn’t dare cry. Not when another needle threatened to pierce her.

‘’25%, 26%... This is slower than expected, but the subject is responding well…’’

He continued muttering to himself. Cloud’s gaze became hazy. Maybe from the pain, or maybe from the mako. There were muffled sounds of a door opening and other people entering the room. Another needle pierced her thigh.

‘’75%... mutation… not probable … sedative…’’

Sedative… no, no, no she can’t fall asleep, she can’t! If she does… But it’s too late, the burning sensation dulled, leaving only a semblance of consciousness to cling to life.

It’s cold. Too cold to sleep. Why was she even sleeping? It smelled like antiseptics, blood, mako. Mako!

She tried to get up, but her limbs were too heavy. Eyes, open your eyes, come on! Why? Why can’t she open her eyes?

‘’Subject shows signs of regained consciousness.’’

That person opened her eyes, shining a bright as fuck light into them. At least her eyes were open now. She wasn’t in the same room as before, and the one performing the tests was a young woman.

‘’Subjects respond to stimuli.’’

She snapped her fingers close to Cloud’s ears. It was so loud! A small groan escaped from her parted lips.

‘’Subject is vocal and responds to sounds. Can you move for me?’’

This was the first question directed at Cloud. She tried her best, yet only managed to blink. It was tiring, but she could feel most of her body now.

‘’Subject is responsive to spoken instructions. Mako poisoning possibility 30%. Cadet Strife, you are experiencing the symptoms of mako poisoning at the moment, but in a few hours, they should dissipate. As such I will come to check on you again in four hours, and possibly discharge you. By morning you should be back into your apartment.’’

She wanted to thank the woman, but it proved too tiring. Too much for now. She could sleep for a while. She wasn’t in immediate danger, maybe the woman didn’t lie and she would be discharged in a few hours, hopefully on her own feet. Cloud fell back asleep, hoping to wake up with her body intact.

''Can you stop checking your phone?’’

‘’She hadn’t texted me in a few hours. I am worried.’’

‘’Mother hen.’’

‘’It’s past midnight, she should have been out by now if nothing happened.’’

‘’Maybe she’s sick after the shots.’’

‘’She would have messaged me. I’m worried, Gen.’’

‘’Give her some credit, she can take care of herself.’’

‘’We're talking about Hojo.’’

‘’Do you want to go back to the Tower and check?’’

‘’I’m sorry, we didn’t even finish the appetizers.’’

‘’I’ll have Angeal cock for me when he gets back. Let’s get your girlfriend.’’

‘’Please don’t call her that, we haven’t-‘’

‘’Just shut up for once.’’

The cold air outside the restaurant whipped Sephiroth’s face. It wasn’t a long drive back to the Shinra tower, and yet she couldn’t shake off the feeling of dread seeping in through her bones.

Reaching the labs, Sephiroth almost backed away. The white door stood domineering in front of her, almost swallowing her whole. Genesis placed a reassuring hand on her back. She wasn’t alone.

Reaching the help desk, she loomed over the secretary.

‘’I don’t suppose you know about a cadet, Claudia Strife?’’

‘’Patient info is not to be disclosed outside of the emergency contacts and relatives. The clinic is close to the public at this hour, please return tomorrow morning.’’

‘’Bullshit.’’

‘’Genesis, language.’’

‘’I am interested in my student’s state. She was supposed to come down a few hours ago for the first dose of enhancements.’’

The secretary looked tired and with a sigh, she opened a few files. Sephiroth was prepared to cut the doors open, should she get refused a second time.

‘’I apologize, but the clearance level of this file is too high for me to access. You will have to come back in the morning or discuss directly with Dr. Hojo, but he left a little while ago. I suggest you return in the morning.’’

Sephiroth’s hand twitched around where Masamune should be. Why did she have to leave it at home? She could break the doors bare-handed, but that would be less practical.

‘’Lady, you just wasted our time, for your sake and your hair, I hope I don’t see you again in the tower. Let’s go Sephiroth.’’

In the warmth of Genesis’s apartment, Sephiroth still felt cold. Like that cold from a lost battle. A cold that runs deep in the bones, deep enough to never leave the body and make even the brightest fires falter. Cloud’s file was truthfully a higher clearance level even for Sephiroth, and that was rare. That level was saved for the president, Hojo, and Rufus.

Genesis came into the bedroom, holding two mugs of coffee. His expression was dark. Until now, when Cloud went MIA Genesis could hope for the blonde to be ok. She was smart and strong, she could hold her own against Wutai for long enough to reach one of their bases or something. But here, right under their nose, he wasn’t sure about her safety. She was somewhere hidden in Hojo’s lab. Maybe she wasn’t anymore, maybe she had already died.

‘’I’ll ask Rufus.’’ Sephiroth murmured.

‘’He’ll ask for a high price.’’

‘’I don’t care.’’

‘’We should wait until the morning, maybe she’s fine.’’

‘’And what if she’s not, Genesis? What if she is dead?’’

‘’If Cloud is dead you can’t do anything for her now. Don’t put yourself in harm's way for some girl.’’ Ok maybe not some girl, he liked Cloud, but not enough to risk his friend’s safety over. ‘’We should wait.’’

‘’It’s not just some girl and you know it. I feel powerless, Gen… I could waltz in the science department and retrieve her, but I know that may have consequences. I could also have Rufus pull some strings, but as you said, it may cost me more than I can pay. What should I do?’’

‘’Wait.’’

‘’I despise waiting.’’

‘’Then sleep. I’ll wake you if something comes up.’’

Contrary to what she believed, Sephiroth was fast asleep, on her friend’s lap, thinking about ways to corner the vice president and ask about her student. Cloud. She couldn’t bear to lose her. Not now when she accepted another person in what she deemed to be her little family.

Waking up was an easier task, but her body felt off like a thick blanket was wrapped around her, dulling her senses. Cloud tried to get up, but she soon realized that it was impossible due to restraints. Where was she again? White ceiling, white walls… the lab. Her mind was fogged by the fierce throbbing threatening to put her back to sleep.

The woman came in again, with a vile of something. She checked some of the machines she was hooked up to before turning her attention to a conscious blonde.

‘’Good morning, Strife. How are you feeling?’’

She cringed at the loud sound of her voice.

‘’I guess your enhanced hearing isn’t something to be happy about at the moment. Your blood work looks good, your body accepted the mako fairly well considering… your circumstances… Can you speak?’’

‘’I think…’’ her throat felt dry.

‘’Good. I will perform some quick tests and then you are free to go.’’

True to her word, the woman finished quickly, testing her reflexes and reaction speed, and other things that she couldn’t remember due to that annoying headache. She told Cloud to rest for a few days and to avoid crowded, noisy areas. To avoid areas that present too many stimuli all at once.

Somehow, she got back to her floor… that’s her floor, right? Should be. Oh, how did she get into her apartment? It doesn’t matter. It smells like home. Cloud flopped on the bed, closing her eyes. She reeked of hospital and mako, but she didn’t have the energy to go and wash. Maybe after some sleep. Yeah… sleep is good.

Chapter Text

Flashes of light and dark stretched behind her eyes, pulling her deeper into a broken dream. Broken wills, broken wings, broken words. Broken hearts. It felt so real and yet so eerie, seeing Sephiroth loom over her, pointing Masamune at her chest, with a sick grin on her face, black wing separating the two of them from the falling debris. It was chaos, but it felt so real. Too real.

A knock on the door shattered the dream, making Cloud groan at the sound. It was too loud. She dragged her feet to the door, opening to reveal Sephiroth looking down at her. She didn’t have the energy to speak, so she moved from the door frame, gesturing her to enter.

‘’How do you feel, Cloud?’’

‘’…’’ She wanted to answer, but the words stuck in her throat. Well, that’s the best she could do. She sat down on the bed shoving her head under the pillow. It was too loud.

‘’I guess your hearing is troubling you.’’ She whispered.

Yes, that was better. A cold hand came to rest on her neck. It felt nice. She didn’t notice until now, but she had a fever.

‘’You’re burning up. Are you cold?’’

Cloud shook her head.

‘’Have you had anything to eat today? Probably not. Do you think you can eat?’’

She shook her head again. Her voice was rough and there was this annoying rhythm … a beat? She raised her hand placing it on Sephiroth’s chest.

‘’I hear it… your heart?’’

Sephiroth chuckled. ‘’Yes, you should be able to. How do you feel?’’

‘’Dizzy… it’s annoying…’’

‘’My heartbeat?’’

‘’Mmm… make it stop…’’

‘’I’m afraid I like it beating. But I can offer you food, or water.’’

Cloud looked up at Sephiroth and ugh… there was too much light. She squints her eyes, trying to take a look at the woman in front of her. Sephiroth was… smiling? Definitely smiling. But also worried, probably.

‘’The light…’’

‘’I can’t do anything about that. If you want we can go to my apartment. It’s quieter there and there is less light.’’

‘’I’m fine. Sleep.’’

“I suppose sleep isn’t a bad option, but you have to eat something. Angeal will be back in a few hours, I think I can make him cook something easy for you.’’

It went mostly on deaf ears, as Cloud opened and closed her eyes lazily. It felt like swimming through the air, everything was slow, Sephiroth talking, her movements, and there was the rhythm of her heartbeat that annoyed her to no end. She didn’t move her hand from where it was placed on Sephiroth’s chest.

‘’I’ll cook for myself when I feel… more… yeah…’’

‘’Your apartment doesn’t have a kitchen, where are you going to cook?’’ She couldn’t help but smile at the confused pout on Cloud’s face. The mako did a number on her, combined with the fever, she was the last person that could make food.

‘’I… I’ll go to Zack’s… or ask Reno or something…’’

Sephiroth frowned hearing about the Turk. ‘’You shouldn’t spend so much time with turks, they are dangerous.’’

‘’Nah… he’s not scary… well maybe once… yeah that night…’’

“What night?’’

‘’Ugh, some time ago… I saw Reno and Rude kill something… they burned it? It stank up the whole street. I still have the scale.’’

Cloud stood from the bed on shaky legs, reaching on a counter where the red scale had been placed a few months ago. When she returned – the two meters felt like a few kilometers – she sat down next to Sephiroth, on the bed, resting her head on her shoulder.

‘’Look! I got it off that monster. What is it?’’

Sephiroth passed it between her fingers, examining it intently. Her shoulder slightly tensed just like her brows, and she swept a protective hand around her waist. It was hot. Too hot. Sephiroth was too warm for Cloud's feverish state.

‘’Come, let’s go. I have some medicine for your fever.’’

‘’My scale!’’

‘’I’ll give it back to you, if you are nice and come with me.’’

Cloud stopped whining, glaring at the taller woman. The blonde changed her sweaty shirt with an old shirt. Tifa gave it to her when they were little. At least it was clean.

Sephiroth took the lead, locking the door behind Cloud because apparently, she had forgotten that you should close your door. Sephiroth also led them through the private elevator and held Cloud on her feet when the elevator started moving. Her center of gravity was also messed up, but it was to be expected.

They passed by Genesis’s apartment which had its door opened and Zack squeaking from inside. Sephiroth popped her head into the apartment shouting a greeting to his two friends returning home, before pushing Cloud into her own apartment.

Cloud was, well for the lack of a better word, lost. Her eyes were glassy and unfocused like she had been drugged. Sephiroth pulled the confused blonde to the couch, looking for the medicine. When she returned Cloud was hunched over the couch looking for something.

‘’Here, take this, it will lower your fever. What are you looking for?’’

‘’My scale…” The blonde pouted. Sephiroth handed her the scale only after Cloud took her medicine. It felt like taking care of a toddler.

‘’You look busy.’’

‘’Fuck off Genesis.’’

Cloud ducked her head under some pillows, covering her ears. There were too many people at once, too much movement and noise to process comfortably. Sephiroth could only sigh and allow Zack to wrap around her to give her a crushing hug, much like Angeal. Genesis looked apologetic at the silver-haired woman, only to be met with a cold stare.

Cloud and Zack were engaged in a whispered conversation through the pillow covering her head. Angeal fixed a somewhat protective gaze on the two of them. He must have heard about Cloud's disappearance, they came home a little sooner than expected.

‘’You guys must be hungry and I have to feed Cloud something too. Want to stay for breakfast?’’

‘’Sure, have you had coffee?’’

They went into the kitchen followed by Genesis a few steps behind. It was more of a pretext to get out of earshot from their younger lovers, to discuss the events of the past two days.

Angeal leaned over one of the counters, picking up a half-finished pack of ground coffee. ‘’This girl keeps getting into trouble. What happened?’’

‘’Cloud had the first mako shots and she didn’t leave the lab until 5 a.m. I was concerned last night so we went to check out the labs, but her file is now on a higher clearance level than I’m allowed to see.’’

‘’Hojo?’’

‘’Yes, most likely. Luckily for Genesis, she was fine and got discharged. But I should have followed my plan and asked Rufus for help. The plan that I had before you cast sleep on my coffee! What is wrong with you, how can you do that?!’’

Sephiroth was fuming, especially since she didn’t have time in the morning to scold her friend, leaving to look for the blonde as soon as the spell wore off.

‘’I’m sorry! I thought that-‘’

‘’I couldn’t give less of a fuck about what you thought. Cloud could have been a monster by now. You don’t have to apologize to me, but to Cloud for putting her life in danger.’’

Sephiroth hardly lost her temper, much less curse, but she couldn’t help but want to pin her friend on the ground and tear him open.

‘’I really am sorry, Seph. I don’t like Rufus, you know he wants something from you. He would have asked for a high price. I want you to be safe.’’

‘’And what about Cloud?’’

Angeal listened intently, pouring coffee in four mugs. The messages from last night were a little erratic and hard to decipher, with Sephiroth’s distress and Genesis’s dismissiveness.

‘’Genesis? Casting sleep on Seph? That is low. How would you feel if something happened to me or Zack and Sephiroth held you back from helping us?’’

‘’I… I would probably cut her down…’’

‘’You are lucky my Masamune is locked in the other room.’’

‘’I apologize, Seph.’’

A gagging sound came from the other room where Zack and Cloud were speaking earlier. ‘’You are on breakfast duty, if you are sorry make something good, or else!’’ Genesis sighed in defeat opening the fridge door to start cooking.

Angeal took another cup with water for Cloud and followed Sephiroth to find Zack and the blonde engaged in a fight. Not much of a fight considering she had Zack in a chokehold, having his head pushed into the couch. Zack seemed to be struggling to get the woman off, flapping his arm around to surrender, but Cloud didn’t seem to notice or care.

‘’Hel-‘’

‘’Give me my scale back!’’

Angeal couldn’t help a chuckle. He took the scale from Zack’s hand, waving it in front of Cloud. She immediately let go of his neck, seemingly satisfied with recovering her scale, settling down close to Sephiroth.

‘’She tried to kill me!’’

‘’You took my scale!’’

‘’You are lucky you’re mako stupid, if not I would have-‘’

Angeal kissed Zack shutting him up, then he placed the cup of coffee in his hands and the glass of water close to Cloud, on the table.

‘’Can you two not fight for five minutes while I go to help Genesis with breakfast?’’

‘’If the crazy woman decides not to strangle me anymore!’’

‘’I’ll take care of the children don’t worry.’’

‘’Thanks.’’

Angeal stepped back, ruffling Zack’s hair. Sephiroth looked down to find Cloud attached to her leg, looking menacingly at Zack. They stared at each other for a while before the silver-haired woman sat down in between them, urging the blonde to put her head in her lap. Cloud pulled a strand of silver hair to play with while Sephiroth congratulated Zack for reaching first class. She felt proud of him, especially since he had made it clear from the first day that they had met, that he plans on surpassing her. To defeat her in battle and stand at the top. And now he was a step closer to that goal.

She still couldn’t believe that Genesis would cast a Sleep on her in such a dire situation. Looking down at the content blonde in her lap served as a reminder that she could have not been here at the moment. That she could have been still strapped to one of Hojo’s tables and used as an experiment, much like she had been and still is.

The morning went by slowly, chatting about Zack moving to the First’s floor and other changes that would intervene in his program. They tried convincing Cloud to eat, but she remained on the couch, doozing off.

Close to noon, the trio left to complete the remaining paperwork for the promotion, leaving Sephiroth to care for the blonde still passed out on the couch. Pondering over waking her up and hooking her up to an IV, the silver-haired woman sat on the armchair, checking her contact list. She stopped at Rufus’s number, glancing over at the sleeping blonde. Her hair framing the sickly pale face fell over her tense shoulders, shivering slightly underneath the blanket. Her fever must have kicked in again.

Genesis was partially right, asking Rufus for a favour would make him entitled to make some unfavorable amendments. On the other hand, this sudden interest that Hojo developed for Cloud was bound to cause her trouble, possibly her ending up as an experiment. She brushed a strand of blonde hair, grimacing at the high temperature. If she hadn’t met Cloud maybe she would be back in her hometown, having given up on Soldier after being denied mako treatment for months, back with her family, not having to worry about dying of mako poisoning.

Sephiroth made up her mind. She called Rufus’s personal number chewing on her thumbnail.

RUFUS: „And here I was thinking you wouldn’t call me. To what reason do I owe the pleasure of initiating this phone call, General?”

SEPHIROTH: „ Cut the bullshit, you know why I called. I need a favour.”

RUFUS: „I suppose such discussions should unveil in a more private setting. And I also suppose you will not be leaving your apartment for a dinner?’’

SEPHIROTH: „No.’’

RUFUS: „Very well, I will be looking forward to discussing Fair’s promotion later this evening. Goodbye, General.’’

Sephiroth wanted to scream. To tear apart the whole tower, to set it ablaze. He knew. The bastard knew and did nothing.

She picked up Cloud, to let her sleep some more in her bedroom, placing her scale on the table next to the bed. Now seemed like a good moment to take a shower and think about her next steps.

The warm water washed away the tension in her muscles. Regardless of Rufus, she would have to protect Cloud on her own, to teach her more and more until Hojo wouldn’t pose such a threat to her. Was that even possible? Even she, the silver Demon of Wutai couldn’t help but shiver when meeting the doctor. He was a different kind of monster, one that you can’t help but hate from the very depths of the soul. Hopefully, Cloud wouldn’t have to know the marrow-deep fear that he had planted within Sephiroth. Hopefully.

It was quiet. Not a soul around, just an empty plane, deserted of life, lit up by a brilliant sky filled with stars. Looking closely, the sky seemed broken, the stars formed a line, a cut, a wound. But there was no time to look at the sky. Why? Because a blade rests next to Cloud's neck, nudging gently at the vulnerable skin. A familiar blade. Masamune.

„Seven seconds ’till the end.’’ End? What end? She wanted to move, to do anything, but... but her whole body was burning, aching, drained of any strength. „So what will you choose, Cloud?’’

„What should I choose?”

„Me.’’ The sword slowly let her neck, a hand circling around her waist. „Choose me this time.”

„Ok.”

This time it wasn’t as hard to open her eyes. Waking up in Sephiroth’s bed became a common occurrence seems like. She could hear the general talking in the other room with someone, but she wasn’t one to pry on people’s conversations usually. But, she heard her name come up and couldn’t help but be curious. It didn’t help that she was also very hungry, and they seemed to be in the kitchen. At least her nausea was gone for the moment.

Carefully, she made her way through the hallway, taking the scale with her. She remembered the dream and hesitated before stepping closer, in the earshot of people unenhanced. Cloud had to call Aerith and talk about it and other things. But her phone... maybe Seph will lend her’s for a little while.

Her enhanced hearing was useful for sneaking around apparently. She spotted Reno on one of the armchairs, facing Sephiroth and a blond guy, the two seemingly in deep thought. She walked behind Reno, almost holding her breath from the tension in the air.

„What is going on?” She whispered close to Reno’s ear.

He turned around, jumping from where he was sitting, holding a gun to her face. The other two also turned towards them, Sephiroth showing a small smile.

„That’s kind of rude, Reno.’’

„Shiva’s cunt! Don’t do that again! I could have blown your brains away!’’

„Yes, and it would have been rude.’’

Sephiroth sat up to check her temperature. „How are you feeling?”

„Aching all over can barely stand, but the dizziness is gone. Who’s that?”

„Cloud, this is Rufus Shinra, the vice-president, unofficial chief of turks, and other nasty things. Rufus this is Cloud Strife, my student.”

„You seem... better than expected.”

„I’m sorry to disappoint, but I will not turn into a failed experiment that easily.”

Reno stepped away from the armchair, leaning closer to the wall. „Glad you’re ok, blondie.”

„Bet you were glad when you saw me hooked up to a mako pump huh?”

„Come on Cloud, I didn’t know you were there.’’ He looked down at his boss for a split second, a shimmer of fear showing in his eyes.

„True, Hojo uses you as his little delivery boy right?’’ Cloud flicked her fingers towards the redhead. The scale that has been resting in her pocket was stuck in the wall, so close to Reno’s ear that it caused a small drop of blood to form. „You were probably off disposing of other failed experiments.’’

The room fell silent. Cloud could hear Reno’s heartbeat just a tad faster than usual. He looked at the vice-president, but his gaze was fixed on the blonde.

„You woke up and chose violence.”

„Peace was never an option.”

„Strife, I hope you understand that you have stumbled upon classified information, and for your own good, you haven’t shared it with anyone.’’ Rufus’s voice was pleasant to Cloud’s ear, especially since she was speaking in a low tone. She wasn’t sure he was doing it because he knew about her adjusting to enhanced hearing, but she was grateful.

„No, I haven’t told anyone that wasn’t already aware of this information, just fact-checked with someone. That said someone asked me to tell you Reno, that if she catches you set foot in her sector again, she will make sure that you and Rude match.’’ Cloud gestured to her hair.

Reno sighed, slumping on the wall. „How the fuck did you two meet?”

„Luck. Speaking of which, Seph, can I borrow your phone? I’m pretty sure Aerith is ready to storm the tower if she doesn’t hear from me soon.’’

The silver-haired woman nodded, handing her the device. She turned to leave, waving at Rufus and flipping off Reno. The blond did a gesture similar to a wave in return, raising a brow slightly.

Making her way back to the bedroom, she could barely walk in a straight line. She had used all of her strength to look fine in front of the VP. She couldn’t show weakness, not when his men were at Hojo’s disposal.

With her sight blurry it took a while to write the correct phone number. Tucked under the heavy blanket she waits for Aerith to answer, recalling the details of her dream. The conversation picked up again in the other room, this time in an even hushed tone. Maybe if she had any energy left after telling her friend everything, she would eavesdrop on their discussion. Not probable as she falls asleep shortly after Aerith starts cursing Reno up and down.

She must be really angry. Aerith never curses.

Chapter Text

Cloud woke up in a cold sweat, breathing heavily. Hair stuck to her face, wet and messy. It was already morning, but she couldn’t help but feel that it had already passed a few days. Her mouth was dry and when she tried to get up from the bed, a sudden wave of dizziness crashed over her. It wasn’t as bad as the days before, but it staggered her for a bit.

Her steps were slower than the other day. Maybe she had used too much energy? Doing what exactly? Talking? At this point, she felt her stomach turn from hunger. At least she was hungry, it was a good sign... probably.

Cloud entered the living room searching with her eyes barely open for Sephiroth. She wasn’t home. Instead, there was a mass of black hair sleeping soundly on the couch, with his phone almost falling from the couch. Why was there so much light? It was starting to get on her nerves.

~Scoala~

„Mnmnnnmn... five more-’’ Cloud stared down. She kicked Zack in the stomach, keeping her foot planted on him.

„Fuck! For fuck’s sake Cloud!”

~ Am zis scoala!~

„First you strangle me, then you kick me... this is downright abuse!”

~Trage si tu deaperiile.~

Cloud stalked to the kitchen, hoping to find some mint and lemon... lemon? No... ma used to make it with onion... was it onion?

“Uh… Cloud? Are you ok?”

~O sa fiu si mai bine daca faci ce iti zic!~

Zack stared at her in confusion. Cloud continued to rummage through the drawers until she felt a cold hand on her forehead. Zack retreated his hand with a puzzled look, before pulling out his phone to text someone.

“Hey, uhh Cloud? I… I can’t understand you?”

~Prostul dracu.~ She took some lemons and peeled them, setting the skin in a pot, that she then filled with water.

“So you are saying something to me but uhh… common language please?’’

Cloud stared blankly at him for a while, before resuming cutting onions. Where was the basil? Was this even the recipe? It smelled nice…

“Why are you cutting onions?’’

“For brew”

“Wow, you got the language right.”

~Pizda matii.~

“And we are back at square one. Angeal left some soup for you in the fridge if you want.”

“Thank Angeal for me. But I need some plant soup… brew… ~ceai~”

“With onions?”

“I may remember the wrong recipe-“

Genesis waltzed through the door holding a bag of groceries. He hummed the music score from “Loveless” while kissing Zack’s cheek.

“Look who’s alive! Are you… present with your soul not just with your body?”

“Very much so, Gen. Can you talk less? It’s giving me a headache.”

“Well aren’t you a little rude today?’’

“How am I rude? I’m not the one yelling!”

Zack pushed a very confused Cloud away from the knives, while also gesturing Genesis to look at his phone.

“Oh… ok… Cloud am I too loud?”

“Yes…”

“Since you have come back, did you have any impediment in switching languages or is it something new?”

“New… It’s like… bees in my head and… TV static.” Zack went back to the kitchen to heat up some soup for the blonde. Genesis sat down on the couch with her, checking her temperature. Normal.

“Seph?”

“Don’t worry, she’s in a meeting right now, with Angeal.”

“Did she mention something about-“

“About how you threatened Reno in front of Rufus Shinra? And may or may not indirectly have also threatened him?” Zack returned with a warm bowl of soup. Cloud ate fast, quenching her hunger. She didn't notice until now how hungry she was.

“In my defense…<< Futu-l în gura pe Reno…>>”

Cloud ran a hand through her hair, scoffing in annoyance when she noticed how tangled it was.

“Did I fuck up that bad or can I still blame it on the mako?”

“You are still alive so I’m leaning toward the last one.” Zack pulled Cloud in a crushing hug, patting her head after she finished eating. There was a certain softness in his eyes, like an older sibling taking care of their little sister. Genesis could only gaze from far away. He had put Cloud’s life in danger. He wanted to apologize. Sephiroth stopped talking to him aside from absolutely necessary communication, throwing him a cold gaze when their eyes met. He messed up.

“Cloud?”

“Mmn?” She barely registered the words through Zack’s announcement about being promoted to First Class.

“I have to apologize. I put your life in danger and-“

“Is it about stopping Seph from coming after me?” Genesis’ heart sank. “I heard you guys fighting in the kitchen. I’m not mad or anything.”

“I still have wronged you.”

“Maybe but you did what’s best for your friend. I know I am the farthest from you guys and it’s understandable, of course, you would prioritize one another.”

Genesis was speechless. She was right, that was exactly his train of thought, but it hurt hearing it from her mouth, mostly because she knew that even before the bullshit started and she had accepted it.

After another few days of recovering under their watchful eyes, Cloud went back to Hojo for a checkup alongside Sephiroth to ensure her safe return. Since no mutation has been developed and she had adapted to the enhancements at a faster rate than expected, Cloud was sent to the battlefield as soon as possible in a Third assisting squad near Costa del Sol to deal with Wutai troops hidden by the inhabitants. Aside from their mandatory message once in five days – a rule they have established in the group chat since Sephiroth went no contact for approximately two months and her two friends had to wait for her return or for the KIA report – Cloud was silent. They didn’t speak much due to her still adjusting to hearing, but also because Genesis felt slightly ashamed to face her, especially after her bold confession of understanding, which she later claimed to not remember.

Currently Genesis was in a board meeting, opposite of Sephiroth, listening to the damage report from Rocket Town. This war was ruthless, taking innocent lives left and right, but at least it was coming to an end. The wutaian forces seemed to have exhausted their economic assets and were now waiting for their final attack. At least, that’s what the general public knows. What they don’t know is the catastrophe that the Caster squads are for normal soldiers. Their troops are decimated by raging fire and thunder, causing the obligatory presence of at least ten Thirds along with three normal squads. It wouldn’t be a problem if they had sent Seconds or one of them, the Generals, but here lay another problem. The funding for the science program was slowly running out, due to the poor crops this year, meaning that the population was starving, their troops were dying, and nobody had a solution. No money means no more new Soldiers to replace the fallen ones, as such the strongest fighters were kept close to home base for now. Wutai was their main importer and now they have been cut off, in the middle of the desert, with no land to cultivate. The land was barren.

But that was none of Genesis’ business. He was just a weapon of conquering, a blade to be sharpened and used, to set ablaze the enemy lines and lead others to battle. To what use? He was uncertain. At least his boys were safe for now, doing some errand runs in the city, where there was no danger, nothing they couldn’t handle.

„Then should we watch the common folk die with us under the enemy troops?”

Sephiroth’s voice brought him back to reality. Her smooth voice cut through the humming, silencing them with a few words. The silver hair fell down her broad shoulders like rivers, following the curves of her back. She watched the quiet room with little interest before demanding funds for the east outposts. No one dared to interrupt her. Genesis wasn’t needed in this meeting, but he could always participate to seem interested in the state of the war in front of the other powerful pricks. But his favorite prick was missing, the VP chair empty, only Tseng listening quietly from the corner. Since he wasn’t needed, he also wanted to use this meeting as an opportunity to talk with Sephiroth. She has been avoiding him for as long as Cloud has been dispatched. The last time they talked was about who would go down to the labs with her. Since then, she didn’t even bother to ask for reports, that he had completed on time for the first time in years.

Her elegant but imposing stature towered over everyone in the room when they got up to leave. It was still early, so Genesis thought about inviting her over to chat over some coffee, having more free time now as they were less solicited on the field. Naturally, they went in the same direction, taking the same elevator up to the same floor, but the redhead just couldn’t bring himself to speak first.

„You are fidgeting and it’s annoying. If you want to say something uses your words, Genesis.”

Sephiroth continued to look forward, but she had heard the way his clothes shuffled when he toyed with the materia ring.

„So cold, must you always be like this friend?”

„...”

„I want to apologize. Again.”

“…”

“At least look at me.”

“If you want me to look at you, meet me in the simulator room. I’m a little worked up from the meeting.’’

She stepped off the elevator first, heading straight for her apartment without sparing him a second glance. At least they would talk, after receiving the beating of his life.

Cloud looked out the window, barely keeping her eyes open. The barely healed cut on her abdomen itched, she hadn’t eaten anything in two days, and her hair was burned. They didn’t expect to be ambushed by one of the new shiny troops of Casters, that Wutai has become very fond of. They are strong. Cloud could hardly believe her eyes when she watched them cast spell after spell after spell. It was hard to even get close to them, but killing them was even harder as they also came with usual fighters to keep them occupied. Their mission was a failure, not only did they not catch the retreating troops and spies, but they also lost half of their manpower when a strong Poison was cast. Luckily they had a designated healer on the team that dispelled the effects of them, but the others weren’t as lucky.

On the way back, the blonde had fallen asleep on one of her colleagues but he didn’t seem to mind until they got close to the Shinra tower. This time she had been a useful member of the team, not just a frail person that needed protection. She wasn’t frail before, but that’s how everyone saw her besides Seph, Geal, Gen, and Zack. Speaking of which, she heard rumors from home base that the Second Class and up were held back for unknown reasons.

Passing quickly by the infirmary she got the rest of her wounds taken care of, finally indulging in the long-awaited shower that she didn’t have the luxury to take in the past month. After scrubbing down her body multiple times and washing all the dirt and blood from her hair, she took a pair of scissors looking in the rusting mirror. Her cheeks were slightly hollow and there were no bags under her eyes, but her jaw was sharper and features stronger. There were also her glowing eyes, that she had yet to get used to.

It was a shame that she had to cut her hair. Usually, people in her village didn’t cut their hair unless they were mourning a dead spouse. Now her blonde locks were half-burned and there was no saving them. Short hair is practical anyway. Slowly she cut away piece by piece until she could distinguish some parts that could later be used for a very small braid if needed. She took the comb and brushed back the slick hair, then dried it with a towel. It was new. It looked... strange, but it's hair, it can grow back.

CLOUD: How come the gc is dead?

ZACK: Hey blondie, glad to see you are alive!

CLOUD: You are not getting rid of me that easy.

CLOUD: Heard you guys are all stuck in the tower for a while.

ZACK: Shit you back?

CLOUD: Is that bad?

ZACK: Nah, just happy. We are in the 34 sim room, Seph and Gen are getting ready for a showdown and Geal are down with them to make sure they don’t demolish the tower/kill each other. I’m in the sim control room.

CLOUD: Lemme get dressed. I’ll be there in 5.

At least now she didn’t have to bother with braids. Feeling the soft material of her shirt Cloud felt a little like a human again. Not a killing machine. Human.

Walking down the halls, the familiar scent of mako and metal enveloped her. It felt strangely like home. The sound of raging fire filled the hallway. They were really going at it. She walked around the main entrance to the VR rooms, knocking on the metal door.

„Cloud! Where’s your hair!”

Zack held her tight petting the small spikes. Safe. He smelled nice, an expensive perfume probably a gift from Genesis.

„Let me go, I like breathing.”

„Sorry I missed you.” He smiled brightly. „When did you come back?”

They entered the control room. There were several panels showing different angles from the simulation. She recognized the cannon in Kalm and two silhouettes one red and one black, zooming around the arena. Watching their blades clash, spells flying around and metal pieces falling in the water. Beautiful.

„They are really going at it, huh? Where’s Geal?”

„Down there in the corner.” The camera moved showing a tired expression on his face.

„Gen is uhh... losing... bad.’’

„Yeah, Seph is still mad at him for that sleep spell. They haven’t spoken since you left. They are kind of speaking now I guess. More importantly, your hair?”

„Some bitch burned my hair and I had to cut it. Do you know how annoying it is to deal with a hoard of Genesis? Very fucking annoying, we could barely break enemy formations.”

„I heard about that, are their casters that good?”

„Yes, and they have natural materia, fully mastered. They also had good crowd control joint spell, they would cut us down using poison and then attack the remaining, usually Soldiers. My greatsword also broke and I had to use a katana I had picked up.”

The battle got more violent, as Genesis activated the runes on his sword. Enchantments, she wasn’t sure where he learned them, but Aerith had told her little about the old Cetra language. It was mesmerizing to watch as the symbols lit up creating a vermilion path to the handle.

"You should ask Seph about a custom weapon. Usually, Soldiers can have on them their personal weapon at all times, save for the places that have an inner rule about weapons, like Honey Bee Inn.”

„What do you think will fit me?”

Their swords clashed again, a crazed smile blooming on Genesis’ face alongside a smirk on Seph’s.

„A greatsword I guess since you have used one until now. Maybe a shorter one to fit your frame. A rapier would also fit you, but you will have to trade power for speed or magic.”

The tower was sliced in half at this point. She watched as Sephiroth fell, slowly rising again like a fallen angel returning to heaven for revenge. Maybe she was, with the silver hair following her sharp movement like a curtain of stars.

„I’m not that good of a caster. I’ll stick with a greatsword for now. They are getting heated.”

„Yeah, hopefully, Gen won’t be too pissed about getting a beating. Again.”

„What’s the score?”

„Uhh, not sure, 23-13 for Seph if i remember correctly.”

The two silhouettes were now moving too fast for the cameras to record properly. Angeal moved, intercepting their attacks, one with his spare sword and the other with Buster sword’s hilt. The simulation broke, a scorching heat reaching even the control room, blinding them temporarily.

„Fucking hell, not again!” Zack reached for the intercom. „The sim is broken! AGAIN! Fuck y’all I’m not talking to Tseng, you are on your own.”

Cloud followed her friend to the other entrance where they found Genesis knelt down hands full of blood. Angeal ripped his shirt bandaging his shoulder while Sephiroth muttered a healing spell frowning.

„You guys need to learn some self-restraint.” Zack sat down next to his lover, examining the broken sword.

„I come home and you are killing each other. Should I call someone from the infirmary?” It wasn’t a deep wound but the fact that it wasn’t healing was concerning.

„Zip it Strife. I’ll go down alone.”

„Not in the state you’re in.” Angeal grumbled, rising to his feet.

„Sweetheart, as much as I enjoy your company, I prefer that the feast that your bare torso is, remains just for my pleasure and Zack’s. You are most definitely not walking around in that ripped shirt when Jenny from accounting has been eyeing you down every day recently.”

„Come on drama queen let’s go.” Zack pulled his lover up by his unharmed arm.

Sephiroth has been standing to the side with a neutral expression, slightly interested in Cloud’s new haircut.

„I accept your apology, Gen.”

„Fucking finally! Took you long enough!”

„Anger me again and I will continue with that apology beating.”

„I think it suffices.” The pair turned around to leave, the redhead leaning slightly on Zack’s shoulder.

„I should also get going, someone has to explain how the sim got wrecked... again. It’s good to have you back, Cloud.” The taller man hugged her tightly before leaving.

Sephiroth and Cloud checked the room again, wincing at the amount of wires and broken panels were on the floor.

„At least you guys made up?”

„Yes. Your hair-’’

„Long story.”

„You should be tired after the mission, let’s go back.”

Sephiroth gently placed a hand on her waist, pulling her closer to peck at her lips. Safe. She was home and it was safe.

Chapter Text

Cloud chopped some vegetables, setting them down in a pot, before returning to the living room with two mugs of coffee. Sephiroth was immersed in some mission reports, one of them being her team leader. After returning to Seph’s apartment Cloud complained about being hungry and decided, against her lover’s wishes for her to relax after the mission, to cook some dishes from back home. Lover. Such a strange word, but fitting. Somehow, it didn’t hold as much significance as it did in her mother tongue, but it was a nice weight rolling off her tongue. 

           “Stop glaring at the papers, they didn’t do anything to you.” Cloud stood next to her, massaging her scalp in slow even circles. The older woman seemed to relax, leaning against her leg. 

           “You had a rough few weeks, you should sleep or do something else.”

           “I like cooking, it reminds me of home. I don’t want to go to sleep starving again and don’t even bring up takeout. I don’t understand how the lustrous General Sephiroth eats mostly junk food if you eat at all. You have to take good care of yourself.” 

           Truthfully, Cloud was tired to the bone. There was not a single spark of energy left in her body, but Seph was miserable. Her hair, while brushed and styled, was unwashed, cups and mugs were lying around the apartment when they first came in, and her eyes were lifeless. It wasn’t a pretty sight, so Cloud took matters into her own hands, cooking some food for her to eat, cleaning up a bit, and giving her a task to focus on just so she will not feel useless. 

           The first time she heard Sephiroth call herself was after a mission where a kid had died before her. The next time was when Cloud returned after the eventful night with Hojo, thinking the blonde didn’t hear her. But she did. And it hurt her both times. 

           “I am functional, it’s enough.”

           “Functional? Sephiroth you aren’t a machine. You are human so you need a break.”

           “I have had a long break, being kept on a tight leash around Midgar.”

           “A break doesn’t include burning yourself out with papers, strategies, training recruits, local missions, etc. A break means doing something for yourself, relaxing, allowing yourself rest.”

           “Like you should be resting now?”

           “As I said, cooking- Fuck!”

           The blonde rushed back to the kitchen turning off the stove. At least the food was alright, save for the mess. She felt a pair of hands circling around her waist, pulling her flush against Sephiroth’s body. She dropped her head in between her shoulder and neck, breathing in the scent. Blood and forest fires. 

           “I’m sorry, now the food is ruined.”

           “Nonsense, it’s good, it’s just some water. Put those long arms of yours to use and take some plates.”

           “I could put them to use somewhere else.” Cloud pushed her lightly to the side, sensing the invitation in her voice. It was alluring, but right now Sephiroth was deflecting, trying to hide the weakness behind lust, sex anything that made her feel in control at the moment. The strongest Soldier in the world, a perfect weapon, a sharp dagger slipping away. Usually, there would be a fire in those green eyes lost in lust, but now they were just lost. 

           For the Silver General blood and death were like a drug that she got addicted to at a young age. She was created to kill, to bend to the will of her masters, to leave a bloodbath behind her, mountains of corpses paving her path. But when she was away from it all, when she was alone with her thoughts there was nothing left, just a ghost of a person she would have been. Life goes on, and she acts normal, but in her mind it’s emptiness. She doesn’t feel the days go by. As such, she woke up during the battle with Genesis, due to the adrenaline. She was thankful for the wake-up call, but it wasn’t enough. Slowly, after Cloud had left her on the couch, she was starting to drift back into that hazy place. The blonde gave her something to occupy her mind, to keep her in the present. Hate, worry for the woman humming an unknown song in the kitchen, feeling that kept her anchored in the present. 

           Cloud was aware of this, it was something she used to deal with sometimes when she was younger. After a while, with her mother’s help and the need for her to take over the family business, she remained in the present, save for the time spent in the labs and the week after. She knew how addicting the state of dissociation was, but she couldn’t allow Sephiroth to fall into it any longer. 

           She thanked the general quietly when setting the table with the few dishes she had the time to cook. A broth with cabbage and pork and some pasta with sugar and cinnamon for dessert. It wasn’t much, but the broth reminded her of cold nights in the winter when she would drop by in a short visit back home, sitting with her mother at a small round table, eating every last drop of it. 

           Now, facing her was not her mother, but another person she wants to protect, as silly as it may sound. Maybe not from someone else, but herself. They ate in a shooting silence. Sephiroth cleaned out the table, while Cloud texted Aerith canceling their plans for the next day. She couldn’t leave Sephiroth alone.

           “What do you think about my food? Did you like it?” Sepiroth was washing the dishes. Such a mundane task was amusing to watch as it was completed by the most dangerous person in the world. 

           “It was… homely…”

           “Glad to hear it. What do you say we take a bath?”

           ”I know what you are trying to do.”

           ’’Really? And what am I trying to do exactly?”

           ”Thank you.” 

           Looking into her eyes again, there was more clarity to them. Good. She pulled the taller woman into the bathroom with her, enjoying the way her muscles moved under her touch when removing her clothes. She filled the bathtub with warm water, gently pulling Sephiroth down, to lay in it.

           ”I thought you said we would take a bath together.”

           ”Changed my mind. Let me take care of you.”   ’You have been taking care of me enough, let me help you as well.’

            Cloud began massaging her shoulder and neck watching the small tension in between her brows fade. After the tub was fully filled she pulled the long silver hair around the general, watching as it moved like mercury under the water. Sephiroth lay her head down, eyes closed. She looked ethereal, like a goddess from another realm resting in their world for a short while. 

            The blonde picked one of the many shampoo bottles, one with jasmine, and started to rub it at the roots of her hair, humming. They spend about half an hour, taking care of her hair, another half an hour for Cloud to worship her arms, legs, face, anything the general allowed her to touch. By the end of it, she had pretty much turned into a puddle of contentment, laying in the warm water. More than that, she tried so hard to be present, to enjoy the treatment, that she had returned for a while. Seeing that her eyes weren’t empty anymore, Cloud left her to get dressed and dry her hair while she put away the now dry dishes. 

            Her hand started to go numb again. It was annoying, but sometimes, even if the wound is completely healed, it will start hurting or going numb. After cleaning up the kitchen she returned to the bedroom, changing into one of Seph’s shirts, not bothering with pants. It was already warm enough and Sephiroth was like a furnace. At least she was back. A small smile tugged at her lips. Being able to help her idol, her friend, her lover... It felt good. 

           Thinking about her friends, she logged in to the group chat asking about Gensis’ condition. Angeal assured her that he was fine, but grumpy that he required a stitch and some bloodwork done. He is in for a mako dose next week to cover the obvious deficit. She put her phone on the nightstand when Sephiroth walked in wearing just a pair of trousers, the other half of the shirt she was wearing. 

           They didn’t bother talking, only snuggling close to each other, cradling Cloud in her arms like she was the most precious being in the world. At that moment, she was. For that sweet moment, no more thoughts were rushing into Sephiroth’s mind, only Cloud’s smell, Cloud’s heartbeat, and the way her hand was drawing meaningless patterns on her thigh. For that moment she felt like she reached the land of the Ancients.

            Sephiroth rolled over groaning. She was alone in bed, and worst of all she had no idea how long she had slept. Her phone was gone, so was Cloud’s and the clock was conveniently unplugged. Usually, she didn’t need an alarm, but she has one just in case. In those rare cases she would hear the alarm, but today she didn’t hear anything, not even when her lover had left. Lover. Such a strange word. She never allowed herself to be selfish enough to keep someone to her side like this. Sure, she had a lot of sexual partners, but it was not the same. Sex doesn’t require worry, tenderness, or emotion in general. With more demanding partners, like Rufus, it sometimes felt like something more than a friendship with benefits, but not nearly enough. But with Cloud, it was just... warmth.

            She heard Cloud’s voice coming from the kitchen, along with the smell of cinnamon. She must have been cooking. Sephiroth pulled the shirt Cloud had slept in the night before, discarded by the foot of the bed, heading for the kitchen. There she found his lover speaking in an unknown language, frowning, with a pan of pancakes in hand, flipping them with ease. Sliding past the counter, she wrapped her arms around her waist, kissing the back of her neck.

           “Morning…” She said in a low tone.

           “Good morning. I’ve made some food for you it’s on the table. I’m talking to my mom right now, I’m sorry.” Cloud turned to face the taller woman, pressing a soft kiss on her cheek. The frown went away, but there was a certain tension in her stance that made Sephiroth uneasy.

           She detached herself from Cloud’s back, when the blonde grumbled something to her mother about taking care of a big baby, in the common language. She could hear the conversation between the two, but it was in a foreign language, something that she had never heard before. She did, one night, when Cloud was having a nightmare, she woke up screaming in that language. When Sephiroth asked her about the dream, she seemed to not be able to switch to the common language so she urged her to go to sleep again, reassuring her that she was safe. 

           Cloud was still speaking so she decided to retrieve her phone from the counter. Mindlessly she scrolled through the group chat taking in the information on Genesis’ medical visit report. Low mako levels – bullshit – mental instability – that one is true – anemia - ???? –

           “I’m going to check on Gen, and I’m taking some pancakes to keep Zack busy.”     

           “Make sure he leaves enough for the rest of you. I’ll come as well after I’m done with this batch.”

           Sephiroth draped a silk robe over her body, stepping into the corridor.

           Cloud let out a breath she didn’t remember holding. She felt guilty, hiding from Sephiroth, but this was concerning, and as much as she trusted her, she was still Shinra’s strongest Soldier.

           ~Mom, since when has this been going on?~

           ~Two weeks, but they are a lot more forceful than before, they aren’t just asking for volunteers, they are demanding people to join the army.~

           ~It’s not surprising, judging by the rate we are losing normal troops. It started around the same time the generals were put on uhh city arrest?~

           ~But you aren’t.~

           ~No ma, I just returned from a mission and I bet I’ll be back on the battlefield again soon.~

           ~They are playing with fire, my dear, you have to take care.~

           ~Oh, don’t worry mom, I have been playing with plenty of fire in the last month. Aside from demanding, has anything changed?~

           ~People have begun disappearing, the usual hunters aren’t dropping by anymore. I was ready to blame it on the winter, but there are fewer animals in the area. The village is barely getting by this winter.~

           ~If you need more money…~

           ~That would be able to solve some problems… if I had where to buy from. Shinra’s men are cutting us off until they are done investigating the reactor.~

           ~I’m willing to bet my fate that they are keeping the missing people there.~

           But it doesn’t make any sense. If they wanted recruits they could just abduct them, bring them to Midgar, and use the Turks to brainwash them or something. Her village and the ones surrounding were never fond of Shinra, and more than that, they were proud. The ones that joined the army, including herself, had to look beyond pride for their family, but such people were far in between in the mountains, since their alliance was a strong one. There is little hope to recruit willingly, even with threats that would work against them, as they will probably start a second war. An unpleasant scenario as she would have to return home, but not probable.

           ~There is also a change in the air, near the mako spring. It’s almost dried.~

           Cloud’s face paled. The mako spring… their sacred place… no…

           ~Mom, promise me if anything happens, the smallest thing, you will tell me. I will come back, I can protect you and the others, I just need you to-~ To tell her.

           ~Don’t worry, my little wolf, no harm will come to me. I may be sick, but I am still a Strife. If I flee from a fight who will remain?~ 

Right, their family is one of the fighters. She cradled her fingers through her hair, missing the black ribbon that she used to braid in it. Black for death bringers, death for the village, her village her family, her family the protectors, the hunters. 

~By the strength of our blood, I will be fine my little storm Cloud. I love you. Come back to me with that girlfriend of yours.~

~I love you too mother. Now you remind me, she did take almost all the pancakes, and Zack probably ate them all. I have to bring them to the next batch. Call me if trouble comes up. ~

~I will.~

Cloud’s vision was blurry, a slight nausea bitting at the back of her neck. Her mother was in danger, Tifa was in danger, even those pricks from the village that she couldn’t stand and would bully her… all of them were in danger. She wanted to scream, to go into the apartment next door and scream in Sephiroth’s face to ask her to do something- what can she do? She may be the leader of all of them, the strategist, the sword, but it wasn’t her the person that started the war. These weren’t her ambitions. The people in Midgar are now starving. They didn't start the war. The people in Wutai are tired and beaten. They didn’t start the war. 

Hojo’s pale face flashed in her mind. No. She hates him, for what he did to her, for what she probably put her friends through – she probably isn’t the only one that got the crazed asshole treatment – but he didn’t start the war. Rufus… no, on the contrary, he isn’t fond of direct conflict, that leader of the Turks. But his father. He… He is the one causing this… 

Rufus’ voice rang through her mind, a distant memory from her mako haze when she still had some energy to try and listen in on his and Sephiroth’s conversation. “I have a proposal.”

She wasn’t sure how a knife appeared in her hand, from the knife holder that is only centimeters away, but she didn’t mind the sharp edge digging into the skin of her palm until now. It was a pleasant burn. Now she watched the blood drip down her arm, with a sick smile on her face. That proposal sounds interesting.

<<This is a fanart of mine for the last chapter with Cloud cutting her hair. And also flowers because flowers>>

Chapter Text

Cloud’s arms shook, barely holding the greatsword up to parry incoming attacks from Sephiroth. Following the curve of the blade, she missed the very obvious kick that sends her tumbling towards the nearest wall. Before she can assess the situation she ducks to the side, narrowly avoiding Sephiroth’s merciless sword. Stepping backward, keeping her eyes trained on the black silhouette, Cloud traced her fingers over the materia slot carved in the greatsword, feeling sparks of electricity bloom under her skin. Sephiroth launched another attack that Cloud welcomed with her blade, sending waves of electric current towards her enemy.

Sephiroth stepped back, eyes narrowing as she finished charging a Thundaga, aiming straight for her mentor. Before the bright light reached its target, Sephiroth cast a magic barrier, absorbing the attack.

“Good, I think we are done for today.” The older woman placed Masamune in its sheath before checking on her lover.

The blonde stared dazed at her hand, biting back a pained grunt when she tried to move it. This was getting old. She cast a healing spell before Sephiroth had the chance to scold her again about being careless when casting.

“Your reflexes are improving, and your reaction speed is good. I would like you to work on your form, as it is causing you to lose grip on your weapon, making guarding harder. Overall, your learning curve is satisfying.” She placed a kiss on the messy blonde hair, sticking to her forehead. She took Cloud’s sword, placing it back on the rack.

The blonde was only slightly breathless at this point, eyes dropping as fatigue took over. They have been sparing for the past four hours with two short breaks allowing Cloud little time for rest. The training itself was demanding, both physically and mentally, as they focused on her tendency to mix magic into her fighting style, similarly to Genesis, but more focused on melee attacks infused with magic.

“If I don’t get to a bed soon, I will fall asleep standing.” Cloud leaned on her lover, enjoying how her hand rested on her lower back, how she could feel the cool skin beneath the tank top, and how Sephiroth looked coldly at anyone who even glanced their way.

In Sephiroth’s defense, Cloud was very vulnerable right now, and if anyone dared to even look the wrong way towards them she would behead them for it.

Finally reaching her apartment – that was slowly turning into Cloud’s house as well – the blonde flopped on the couch, not even bothering to take a shower or put away the thunder material she has been practicing with. When Sephiroth tried to remind her to get washed she was met with a cute little snore.

Maybe a shower can wait, but she wasn’t tired enough to join the blonde for a nap, so she settled on the arm seat, doing some paperwork. It was odd, having a constant presence in her home, someone different from the three fantastic boyfriends, someone to make this apartment a home.

Unfortunately for Sephiroth, the three fantastic headaches barged into her apartment, not even an hour after they got back, with Genesis leading the way.

“What did I tell you, she wouldn’t get ready unless someone held her at gunpoint.”

“I would appreciate it if you knocked from now. What do you want? “

“To see the dress you are going with tonight.” He barely registered the sleeping blonde, walking past the mountain of paperwork that somehow appeared on the coffee table, near Sephiroth.

“Going where exactly?” Sephiroth shot them all a deathly glare before turning her laptop off.

She watched as Zack approached the couch silently, with Angeal mouthing and apologizing over his shoulder.

“WAKEY WAK-!” Zack jumped back, shrieking. Cloud stared dazed for a second, lowering her hand, electric weebs forming around her fingertips.

After a second of brain lag, Cloud finally reached awareness, stopping the next spell that he was ready to throw.

“I think I saw God.” Zack sighed theatrically. He was spending too much time with Genesis.

“Do that again and I’ll send you STRAIGHT TO HIM!”

“You have to pay attention to other things in meetings, aside from battle plans. There is an award ceremony today, remember? For the three of us? Ring any bells?”

Angeal was now holding back a pissed-off Cloud ready to tear Zack to shreds, barely being able to snatch her materia.

“I would appreciate some help here.” Sephiroth sighed, walking over to pick her lover up, much to Cloud’s delight, setting her back on the couch, patting her hair.

“I forgot about that…”

“I bet you also forgot about Rufus’ party afterward.”

“It’s in two hours, I have time to get ready.”

“Sucks for you, I’m going back to sleep.” Cloud nuzzled Sephiroth’s belly, flipping Zack off.

“Oh no Spike, you are also coming!”

“Last time I checked I’m not a First.”

“No, but Rufus invited you to the party. I forgot to tell you.” Cloud looked up at her, slightly pale.

“And you think to tell me now? You do realize that I don’t have anything to wear, no make-up, no shoes, I can barely keep my eyes open and I don’t have the money to find something!”

“Well, you have enough dressed that Honey Bee Inn.” Genesis scoffed at the blonde.

“Dresses that aren’t mine, that I wear only in shows where I make money that mostly goes to Andreea, said provider for those dresses. I’m not coming.”

“Cloud, I would advise you to come.” Angeal pressed a warm hand on her shoulder. She got up from Sephiroth’s lap, her finger flexing with anger.

“Why didn’t you tell me sooner? I could have put some money aside, maybe ask Andy to help or something. Now what?’’

“I apologize, I’ve been distracted.” Cloud turned her back at her friends thinking. Andy was out of town so she couldn’t ask him for a favor. Reno still owed her for the lab bullshit, but she still needed to ask him about the abductions back home, so he was out of the discussion. Then, a spark of blue ignited an idea.

“I may have a way to get a dress and I could borrow shoes from you since we wear the same size. But, I have literally no money at the moment, and I’ll have to pull a favor or two.” She really hates asking for favors.

“I’ll pay for the dress since I got you in this situation." Angeal smacked Zack before he could suggest something stupid when Cloud pulled her phone, dialing a number. On the other side, a pleasant voice answered, the four Firsts falling silent to listen.

M.M: Madam C, a displeasure to hear you.

C: I’m calling on business, not to chat. I need a favor, well it’s not really a favor, but I need you to do something for me.

M.M: I don’t appreciate the patronizing tone.

C: I don’t appreciate not getting paid for my services.

The Firsts exchanged a wary glance before meeting Cloud’s cold one. She gestured that it wasn’t important, but continued fixating the floor, thinking.

M.M: What do you want?

C: Remember the other day when we saw that blue satin and black lace dress? Someone - she looked sideways at Sephiroth – forgot to tell me we had to go to an event tonight, and I have nothing to wear. I would appreciate having that dress in an hour at the Tower.

M.M: That job isn’t enough to cover the whole dress. Plus the
transport is at least two hours by carriage and train from the Slums.

C: I know, but that someone happens to offer to pay for the dress. I’m offering you the easy way out with this, I don’t like not getting paid and I can come to take my money anytime. I’m in a very bad mood, and instead of going to that event, if you don’t get me that dress up here in an hour, I might just pass by the parlor to get what’s mine.

Cloud’s voice was cold, words running almost electric. Sephiroth has never heard the blonde speak with such cruelty in her tone, much less threaten anyone besides Reno, but that was under mako effect. There was a slight tug in her stomach. Cute.

M.M: Ok, I get it. Andreea asked me to pass this to you, don’t come back to Wall Market. The Don is on the lookout for you. He asked Andy to put you in the next bride contest.

C: Fuck… Thanks for the heads up.

“SO, until my dress is here, fuck y’all I’m going back to sleep.”

“Not a chance. You have to shower, do your make-up, hair, pick shoes-“

“Ok, FINE! You are too smug about this Genesis!”

“I want for all of us to look good for this. It’s Zack’s first event as a First class and big bad General over there is going with a student for the first time. Of course, Cloud and Zack won’t appear on TV, but you can put in some effort. Speaking off we still have to get ready, Zack be good and help the girls.”

“Hey! Don’t I have to look good as well?”

“You always do, and you are a distraction.”

“Yeah, I’m distracting you from Angeal’s dick.”

“That too.’’

“Don’t I get a say in this?” Sephiroth threw the fussy blonde over her shoulder, holding a hand possessively over her very plump, ready to be bitten- over her ass.

“Genesis, don’t treat our boyfriend like a child and Sephiroth as daycare.”

“Oh, fuck you too Angeal!”

“Gladly, but you have two hands for a reason-”

Before they could argue any further the two generals left the apartment, one dragging the other to the neighboring door. Zack slumped on the couch pulling out his phone since he had nothing else to do while his friends got ready.

Getting ready is a broad term for making out in the showers, Sephiroth grinding against Cloud’s leg barely piecing her mind back together to register the diligent work of Cloud’s fingers working up and down her body, washing them both. After Sephiroth’s advances were stopped from further intervening with their mission of looking presentable, Cloud dried her hair quickly.

Zack had left to pick up Cloud’s dress from reception and maybe her scary voice made Sephiroth a little horny and the reminder urged her to push the blonde against the wall, but nobody could blame her. Sometimes it was hard for her to focus during training sessions with the very hot, lean muscled, beautiful- with Cloud.

“Okay-“ The blonde gasped pulling away from the kiss. “I will go look for some shoes, you go dry your hair. Now!”

All right, she did have a point, her extremely long hair was dripping on the floor, turning it into a safety hazard. A shame that she didn’t have time to blowdry it… with a blow-drier… being the brute she is – as Genesis said when he found out – Sephiroth cast an Aero on her hair, efficiently drying and tangling it at the same time. Thankfully her hair was soft. By the time she was satisfied with the way her hair shined in the bathroom light, she joined Zack and Cloud in the bedroom.

“Boxers? Really, with that dress?’’

“It’s not like you can tell I wear boxers. Plus, the only person that will take this dress off is Sephiroth and she had seen me in boxers plenty of times.” Yes, she had seen Cloud in those boxers that hugged her ass- Her horny thought dissipated for a second when she stepped through the door, Cloud coming in full view.

The silk dress draped over Cloud’s body, following the curve of her hips, accentuating her slim waist. Silver embroidery decorates the corset with a subtle flower pattern, swirling around her chest. The deep blue sleeves fell over her shoulders, a few silver clasps holding it closed near the upper arm, similarly to shoulder plates. Her collar bones were exposed alongside her cleavage, a very deep cleavage.

“How do I look?”

“I think Sephiroth.exe stopped working.”

Zack held a silver hairpin encrusted with sapphires, possibly Cloud’s choice for jewelry. She had done her make-up already, a softer blue shading her eyelids. It was simple, just a splash of color with some mascara and a simple winged liner, but it tied everything together. Zack was half right, Sephiroth was almost on the verge of a mental breakdown due to the sheer beauty of her lover, but also fighting the urge to rip the dress apart and spread her legs and-

“I say the branch necklace thingy.”

“It fits the flowers, but it doesn’t really speak to me. I was thinking about some earrings instead.”

“You look-"

“She speaks!” Zack gasped. He stepped out of the room, seemingly to ask Gensesis' opinion on the jewelry.

“It was rushed and it's not the best dress for me but it was available, I’m sorry you had to pay for it and-"

“ Cloud, stop that. You are stunning. Gods I’m so lucky, look at you! I would give all my money away if it meant seeing you like this!” She kissed her forehead careful not to mess up her half-slicked-back hair. “And I would give all my money away just to see you smile like this.”

“You are spending too much time with Genesis!”

Zack left the room looking a little annoyed to third wheel for the second time in the same night, but Sephiroth could hardly take her eyes off of Cloud. But, the blonde was nervous about the event and kept fussing about her hair, how it was too short to braid properly, how disgraceful it is to her ancestors and how she will not be able to face anyone from her hometown if they see her with short hair.

“I think it suits you.” Sephiroth reached for a black box on the top shelf of the dresser.

“It’s not about suiting me or not, we don’t cut our hair. We braid it, we take care of it, we use it to express our status, occupation, even the village we belong in!”

Listening to Cloud talk about her culture, her home, made Sephiroth somehow nostalgic. Genesis and Angeal used to talk about Banora just as much when they had just entered the program, only they used their language to exclude Sephiroth out of strategies talks. If the place you are born in is so important, then is Sephiroth missing something?

She put on the black overall, adjusting the buttons. Thankfully Genesis guessed right her measurements and it fit better than most of her outfits. It didn’t look like an overall, the black straight pants elongating her legs even more. The blouse was much like Cloud’s corset, embroidered with golden thread depicting a dragon in wutaian style. The whole piece was inspired by Wutai fashion, as such the sheer sleeves were long almost to her knees, following her every move. The short corset separates the bottom half and the top half as if they were two different pieces, but the blouse was actually sewn into the corset much like the pants. There was also the sheer black cape held on her shoulders by golden clasps.

Cloud had been watching her for a while, still talking about her home, but this time little things, such as the history behind a war goddess known through the braid pattern she wore. “You look like her…” the blonde whispered closing in on her.

She didn’t stop Cloud when she picked up the hairbrush, combing slowly through the silver strands. They had another half an hour, so Cloud made fast work of the middle braid, then the smaller ones that kept the hair from falling in Sephiroth’s face. Cloud picked the golden chains Sephiroth had worn for the Halloween party, binding them around the braids like a crown. Half of Sephiroth’s hair remained loose, only to be kept in place at the end with a golden clasp. While the blonde worked, Sephiroth finished her make-up, deep red lipstick, golden eyeshadow near the corners of the eyes, and red eyeshadow on her waterline.

“Gods you look…”

Cloud understood her lover’s urge to kiss the daylights out of her because Gaia help her she will bite her tongue off at this rate. Good thing Zack interrupted them, dressed in a black suit with a blue tie, gushing about how beautiful they are and about how they are going to be late.

Genesis and Angeal were waiting for them by the elevator, one wearing a red costume and the other a navy blue one with red dress shirts and white ties.

Aside from Genesis berating them about not talking unless asked, keeping out of trouble, and overall not making a fool out of themselves the drive and award ceremony went smoothly. Some reporters kept bugging the Generals about their plus-ones, but it wasn’t that bad. Hopefully, the afterparty, held by Shinra’s heir wouldn’t prove to be such a bad experience.

Chapter Text

The award ceremony wasn’t as bad as expected. Everyone ignored Cloud and Zack, dumping them back in the guest seats for two hours. Some paparazzi asked them some questions, but Sephiroth cut them off with an icy glare. Genesis supposedly worried for nothing, since they didn’t have that much to do. While commenting on outfits and couples was fun, it burnt out quickly with just the two of them. After the three Generals received their awards, the president started a very long speech about nothing really, just bullshitting enough to confuse everyone into thinking the war is going well. That’s what Reno said at least because the two of them couldn’t be bothered to listen when their view was their very glamorous lovers right next to that sorry excuse of a man. Even Rufus – that even Reno was surprised to see – was dressed in a white suit with gold accessories and a light blue shirt, instead of his usual leather attire.

Reno continued his commentary – he joined them at some point ditching Rude out of boredom, and the also bored pair declare a truce for the night.

“I’ll fuck you up real good next time I see you, Reno!” Cloud spoke in a low voice, with a pleasant fake smile.

“I’ll hold you to that, blondie!”

With the award ceremony wrapped up, all that was left was Rufus’ party. Reno begged them to come with him a little earlier than the other guests because he couldn’t stand talking to walls anymore. He had fought with Rude. Sephiroth and Genesis had nothing against it and Angeal was… swept up by women trying to get his number… very unfortunate for them indeed, because Genesis was already pissed from an interview. Hopefully, those women will still have their heads, because their hair wouldn’t last much longer.

Well, the party was not fit for her outfit. For a gala? Good, excellent, elegant. For this party? Not so much. Scarlet was in a similar gown but, it’s her trademark alongside her cleavage that rivaled even Sephiroth’s… not the time to think about that now. Reno took them to the back where the food was prepared and the workers were bussing themselves with last-minute tasks. Cloud wanted to lend a hand, but she could not afford to stain the dress, so she joined Zack on a couch near the changing rooms.

“Man, this is boring!”

“I can go steal something to drink,” Reno suggested winking at two dancers passing by them.

“I think the chef will kill you.”

“Don’t underestimate a Turk, blondie.”

Cloud closed her eyes fighting a headache. This was noisy, and not noisy like a battlefield where she had to pick up on any incoming projectiles, footsteps, breathing, or heartbeat. It was the sound of glasses hitting each other, people speaking, people walking, doors closing… a little too much. Somehow she was thankful for not doing shows with Andreea because Honey Bee Inn wasn’t the calmest place. Speak of the devil, Mirana and Iena, two dancers from the Inn that she was close with approached them.

“Look at you Madam C.! You look great!”

“Shhhh! Not by that name! Call me Cloud here, or anywhere outside of the Inn.’’

“Got it! What brings you here, if not business? Or are you by chance a plus one?” Mirana giggled eyeing Zack. “I know that dress ain’t cheap.”

“Thanks, I needed a reminder of how broke I am! I’m here with Sephiroth, and I think Maimai is looking for you guys.”

“Shit, thanks freak hearing. See you around, and if you get bored feel free to hang out in our dressing room, just don’t hoard it.” Iena winked.

After the girls left, the three of them slumped back into the couch talking about some dating scandals Reno heard about around the Tower. At some point, it had gotten too busy around the kitchen so they migrated to the main room where the rest of the guests were. Cloud recognized some – from the Halloween party so she had to keep a low profile – but others were strange strangers. Rufus had a unique taste when it came to friends apparently. Not that it mattered much when Genesis, Angeal, and Sephiroth joined them.

“You guys look done with life.”

“My fangirls are done with life probably at the moment..” Angeal sighed leaning slightly on Zack’s shoulder. He wasn’t much shorter but he still enjoyed teasing him about that small difference. Genesis had set his arm on fire once when he tried the same thing.

“They were too touchy. It should teach them something about personal space!”

Sephiroth placed a hand on Cloud’s lower back, a grounding gesture that she was grateful for. They continued to chat while the two younger Soldiers filled them in about the dating scandals Reno told them about.

Sephiroth and Cloud chose one of the white leather couches to watch the party unfold. The general wasn’t a party person and Cloud was still adjusting to her enhancements so none of them were in their element at the moment, but they enjoyed each other’s company. After a few drinks and some attempts to steal Cloud from Sephiroth by some of the other guests, the couple found a room away from the prying eyes. Luckily, this mansion, one of Rufus’ many residences, had numerous rooms open for the guests to unwind, so they took advantage of that.

Cloud gasped against Sephiroth’s lips as a slender finger began rubbing between her legs through the material of the dress. Her hands were locked over her head stopping the blonde from squirming away from the touch.

“Someone might hear-“ Cloud breathed.

“Let them.” Sephiroth began to pull on the strings of the corset when the door opened, a familiar lanky figure leaning on the door frame.

“Now ladies is it really wise to praise such an invitation when one of you doesn’t seem like much of a voyeur.''

Sephiroth pulled away from Cloud just enough to give her space to fix her dress and makeup. “You have atrocious timing Rufus.”

“Not necessarily. Ladies, what do you say about keeping me company for tonight?”

Sephiroth turned to Cloud, watching her reaction. She didn’t seem immediately opposed or interested, just passively weighing her options, observing the slender man through the dark violet light.

“What do you say?” The blonde spoke in a low tone, low enough that only enhanced ears could hear it.

“Your call Stormy.” Cloud felt a shiver down her spine at the pet name that was only used in private, during cuddle sessions after hard missions. “He’s pretty good in bed, but if you don’t want to we can resume where we left off.”

“But he is a man.”

“Built-in dildo. I’m joking, but if you don’t feel comfortable I’ll just tell him off.”

“Well, he is pretty for a man.” Cloud turned to address Rufus. “Sure, sounds more entertaining than this party, but I have to mention that I don’t have a lot of experience with men.”

“Then I guess I’ll have to make up for it.”

Cloud appreciated the muted colors in Rufus’ house, where they retreated after ditching the party. Of course, the Shinra heir wouldn’t spare a glance at the price tags on furniture, so behemoth leather armchairs and frosted pine from the northern crater complimented the beige walls. Clean and classy, that’s how she could describe his house, just like him. Well, not clean for long, Cloud’s dress was already discarded in the living room followed by her hairpin. Sephiroth was right Rufus was good. Similar to her lover, his icy exterior melted away with each touch, leaving only raw desire to bur in his eyes.

Cloud couldn’t help the small sound that escaped her when the two of them took turns ravishing Cloud’s lips, allowing her time to rest only when they would melt into each other’s lips over Cloud’s shoulder. She could feel Sephiroth’s breasts pressed against her back and his already hardened cock moving against her thighs. Maybe she now regretted not wearing sexy underwear.

“Boxers with a dress?” He asked a little breathless from kissing Sephiroth.

“I didn’t expect anyone else to undress me. And I also don’t like being the only one naked.”

“Then do something about it, blondie.”

She turned out of instinct reaching for Sephiroth but she pulled back, placing a small kiss on her lips. “You two have fun while I take off my suit and makeup, I have to look decent in the morning unlike you two.”

“You heard the boss. I promise I don’t bite…” He leaned next to her ear, biting the lobe and sending a shiver down her spine. "Maybe I do bite, depends on you.”

The next minutes passed in a blur of passionate kisses, tongues swirling around one another, tasting each other, stripping Rufus of his suit – for fuck sake he had a lot of belts – finally leaving the two of them naked on the bed, with Cloud underneath him. She stared past him, focusing for a bit on Sephiroth’s movement from the other room. Rufus continued to litter her throat with bites and kisses, urging harsh breaths from her. Only that slowly her breath evened out, eyes fixed on the windows, thinking about how easy it would be for someone to break them, how easy it would be for someone to pass through the security -not very easy.

His eyes lacked the usual unusual green glow of the mako, but there was a frozen fire in them, a hunger that made Cloud want more. Kind of like Seph, but not really. His hands traveled lower, caressing her sides, kneading the soft muscles of her thighs. It was oddly relaxing, especially after a rough training session and wearing heels, she felt like molting lava under his touch.

“Good girl, relax a bit. There you are, don’t go zoning out on me.”

“I’m sorry, it happens sometimes…” Sometimes she is still shaken from a mission, returning home to Sephiroth and having sex, but it’s not like usual. She takes lead, but a need to come back, to latch onto anything within reach to exit that mindset. Cloud would insist on those nights to top, with a pretty smile and empty eyes. But now it’s not after a mission. So what the fuck brain?

“It’s ok blondie, we can stop if you are not comfortable, but I’m not a threat.”

That’s right, Seph is here, she’s not out there, nobody will jump them with riffles. She doesn’t have to keep track of Sephiroth’s movements in the bathroom because she is safe. They are safe.

Some light returned to her eyes, some of her attention turned to him, but not all of it. “I don’t want to stop…” Her gaze fell on his dick, hanging fully erect between his legs. It was a similar size to Seph’s strap, but veinier. She reached out pumping it a few times, her eyes wide.

“Like it?”

“Got to see only one other dick in my life and I have to say, yours is pretty.” His breath staggered a bit when she started palming his testicles.

“Don’t call it pretty, it’s weird!”

“But it is! It has thick veins and the head it’s so cute and smooth, I just wanna lick it.”

“Fuck- I didn’t know you talk filth Strife.”

“Oh, her mouth can do more than that. What do you say you put it to better use, Cloud?” Sephiroth finally joined them, her hair spilling over the pale shoulders. She trailed a hand on her spine, guiding her head next to Rufus’ crotch. Without hesitating, she wrapped her lips around the flushed head, sucking slightly.

“Shit-!”

“Told you. Focus on him, Cloud, I want you to bring him as close to orgasm as you can without letting him come.” Rufus opened his mouth to protest, but at that moment Cloud slid half of him into her mouth, then swiftly swallowed the rest of him. It felt different than the dildo but in a good way. The musky scent, the warmth, his hands fisting her hair, his sharp breaths, the way his hips buckled when Cloud would keep him engulfed in the heat of her mouth without moving. She continued to bob her head listening to Sephiroth’s indications until she was roughly pulled back by her hair, meeting Sephiroth’s lips in a maddening kiss.

“Feeling better?”

“Yeah- Thanks.” Rufus wrapped a handful of silver hair pulling Sephiroth over him, mouthing at her neck. She spread her legs around his hips, almost lining up with his cock.

“You guys are so hot.” Cloud blurted out before reaching out to rub her folds, circling around her clit. Sephiroth’s breath staggered. She soon met Rufus’ fingers also reaching for her lover’s pussy, sucking on her nipples.

From then on Cloud watched as his dick slid inside her, making Sephiroth’s back arch beautifully. Her long hair cast to the side allowed for a better view of her blissed face and glassy eyes. Sephiroth kept a steady rhythm, riding Rufus’ cock pinning his hands to the mattress. Sometimes she would stop to grind against his abdomen, his face twisting with desperation. She brought Rufus close to the edge a few times, every time stopping just when he was about to spill to grind against him, calling him a good for nothing dog, a bitch in heat. After what felt like an eternity the glowing green eyes looked over to the blonde fingering herself next to them in bed, legs shaking from the orgasm, mouth slightly open.

“Come here.” She got up from Rufus’ lap letting Cloud press her tongue flat against her oozing pussy. The blonde swallowed her moans and harsh breaths, licking her through the orgasm and overstimulation. Cloud felt a hand spreading her open, massaging her insides from behind.

“Now that’s a sight.” At some point she forgot to eat her lover out, reveling in the sensation of being fucked by his skilled fingers, curling right against that sweet spot, sending sparks down her spine. He brought his chest flush against her back, covering her completely, his teeth grazing the soft flesh of her neck, while Sephiroth tilted her head upwards.

“What do you want, Cloud?”

“Please- Ah…”

“You have to speak up, Strife! What do you want?”

She could hardly form words, the need to be filled to the brim, to feel something inside her overwhelming. She felt hot, too hot, but so good, but it was too little at the same time. “Pl-Please… fuck me… I- Ahh! Please- Rufus!”

Cloud let out a strangled whine when Rufus thrust in, to the hilt, her eyes rolling back in pleasure. It was so good. Better than any dildo she had tried until then, hot and thick, twitching inside her. Rufus gave her no time to adjust, thrusting mercilessly. The lewd slap of their skin meeting was covered by Cloud’s high-pitched moans of pleasure and pain when Sephiroth would bit hard on to her nipples.

“I riled him up for you. Thank me later.” She whispered, her breath hot against the shell of her ear.

“Fucking- Ahh! Oh~!”

Rufus pulled her arms back, fucking her from behind, biting into her shoulder, sometimes meeting Sephiroth’s lips. The other two kept torturing Cloud with mind-numbing pleasure, turning her legs into jelly. Rufus’ stamina was surprising switching from fucking her on the bed, to the wall, to the glass windows, and back to the bed only this time thrusting desperately into her tight pussy seeking release. At this point, Cloud’s mind was scattered between Sephiroth’s sweet words and his dick spilling hot cum into her.

By the end of it, Cloud felt sore all over, from being fucked so good, falling asleep between the two, her head buried in Sephiroth’s shoulder.

Cloud woke up missing two warm bodies next to her and thankfully they weren’t cold bodies either. She heard the door to the apartment closing and some heavy steps from the hallway. Rufus entered the room, dressed in a pair of gray sweatpants and a black t-shirt.

“Didn’t mean to wake you.”

“Where’s Seph?”

“Got called in for an urgent mission in Rocket Town. Go back to sleep if you want, or join me for a smoke?”

“Sure.” Cloud spotted a set of clean clothes on the chair next to the bed, neatly folded and seemingly some of Sephiroth’s pajamas. Thankfully, Sephiroth had cleaned her after she passed out, otherwise, she would have to deal with the annoying drip of cum, sliding down her legs.

The balcony offered a gorgeous view of the steel city, lit by a sickeningly green glow. Rufus was leaning onto the glass rail, the stinging smell of smoke enveloping him. He wasn’t wearing any shoes, but the chill of the night didn’t seem to faze the man. His lanky figure softened under the cotton clothes betraying his exhausted state. Cloud didn’t bother asking for permission before slipping a slim black cigarette from the pack. The matching black lighter felt comforting in her hand.

“Didn’t take you for a smoker.”

“Didn’t take you for a masochist.”

Cloud leaned on the rail close to Rufus, enjoying the little warmth shared between them. Her neck felt slightly dry and she almost coughed. It had been a long time since she had last smoked. Thinking back to the herbs they used back home, Cloud remembered a very important reason as to why she was here. Sure, having a threesome sounds fun, it was on her bucket list, and Rufus had actually been very kind to pound her into the matters just right, but there was a pressing matter in the back of her mind.

“Low blow, kink shaming.”

“Not shaming, relating. I do also like to see Sephiroth all commanding and stepping on me.”

“So you don’t mind my previous relationship with Sephiroth?” Cloud exhaled some smoke, finishing the first cig. It was swiftly replaced by another.

“Why would I? Tonight you raised the offer to us as a couple, and we both agreed, and as long as she isn’t cheating on me, I don’t mind any of her sexual history. It’s not my place to mind it.” Rufus got another cigar. “Can I ask you something?”

“I feel that this is a politics/army-related issue. Is this really the time to talk about this? Because, you know, you got your back broken by me not so long ago.”

“When else?”

“Fine, ask.”

“Do you know anything about human experimentation outside the Soldier scope and willing participants?”

“Not really my area of expertise. You may have better luck asking Sephiroth that. I mostly monitor the overall activity let’s say.”

“Alright, then what about the Shinra troops in the mountain range, bordering Wutai, abducting people? Specifically the neutral zone.”

Rufus turned to her, with an empty expression, except for the glint of curiosity in his eyes. “The neutral zone is called neutral for a reason. We don’t station troops there unless maintenance needs to occur at the reactor.”

“That’s what the official reports say, and the agreement struck with the Western Villages states that if either party break the engagement – the W.V. have to allow maintenance to occur and- “
“I’ll stop you here. I know the laws, thank you. What are you getting at?”

Cloud turned to Rufus, hopping on the rail and lightly tapping the cigar over the balcony. “There are troops stationed in the neutral territory, kidnapping civilians.” His eyes widened just slightly.

“What’s it to me?”

“You must know the situation of the war. And, if the Western Villages catch wind of Shinra’s lawbreaking, you might find yourself fighting a fire on two ends.”

“Not my business, I’m not the one leading this war. If you want to play advisor, I suggest talking to my father.”

“But you wish it was yours… maybe not the war, but-“

“What do you want, Strife?” His posture straightened, towering over Cloud’s hunched stature. Their eyes met, a smirk tugging at Cloud’s lips. Rufus leaned closer to her, but the blonde mentained their distance leaning backward, holding the rail with her legs.

“Information. I want to know where those people disappear, what happens to them.”

“And why should I give information to you? A mere Third that has just a little more strength than me and glowy eyes?”

“Name the price.” Finally, Cloud couldn’t bend back anymore, her whole torso leaning over the rail, with Rufus just a few centimeters away from her face. Thankfully, they had no more cigars, otherwise, one of them would have been burned by now.

“You have nothing of worth to me.”

“Material? No. But your network in the Slums could be improved.”

“Don’t get cocky!” His lips pressed in a thin line. His eyes stuck to a spot beyond her, eyelashes slightly fluttering. His sharp jaw tensed, before stepping out of the balcony.

Breathing a sigh of relief, Cloud followed him to another part of the apartment, an office where several papers lay on the floor. It wasn’t the cleanest space but there was a free spot on the desk where he had pulled another stack of papers.

“You want something from me, then you have to work for it, Strife. On this list, you have your targets. Take one out, I’ll get something for you in return.” Rufus handed her a sheet with twenty-something names on it. “Here, you can find any information you need about the target, but these files do not exit my office. I suggest you skim through them now and chose your first victim if you are so eager to find those people.”

“You already knew I would ask something from you? Since when?”

“I like your guts, Strife. Having a Soldier hitman is also a plus. Now, do we have a deal?”

Rufus put out his hand, waiting for her reply. Cloud could, of course, not refuse this offer, so she extended her hand sealing the fate of her first target – Vakarma, a drug smuggler.

Chapter Text

1 a.m.

Passing by the Inn, Cloud smelled a soft scent in the air, a known perfume that lead her through the packed streets and bright lights, down the abandoned road to Sector 8. Hidden in the shadows, Cloud felt death’s sharp claws inch her hand to the dagger. But there will be no need for it tonight.

The hushed voices of smugglers snapped her back to reality, redirecting her attention to the small gathering. A metal bar dug into her shoulder but she continued to listen about their deals and business in general. Vakarma had not arrived yet, but he had sent a few men to scout out the place first. They checked most of the places to hide, but not all of them. One of them, a tall man passed by Cloud, to be more exact over her.

Rufus provided some basic information about the guy and his next arrival in Midgar, so she came early and hid in a hole covered by a piece of rubbish, big enough to keep her body away from prying eyes and heavy enough to be hard to move by normal people. Unless they knew the area by hand they also didn’t know about the little caves that formed, connecting the sewers with the aboveground through many openings.

The plan was simple. Vakarma was supposed to meet with a single person, on neutral terms, so no other bodyguards were next to them. But that person would never come. Cloud had already left an anonymous pointer that there will be heavy Shinra activity in that sector. Of course, Cloud did not expect to not be any guards nearby, but the slum monsters that she ruffled up earlier should keep them busy. From then on she would observe the evolution and ultimate deaths of the guards, one by one.

They were surprisingly quick, for the better or the worst, so Vakarma was now leaning on a pile of rubbish, mumbling about losing money and time. Certainly impatient, he checked his watch.

Good, the plan was going perfectly. But for some reason, Cloud hesitated to climb the ladder to the surface. Nails formed little crescent moons into her palm, trying to calm her breathing. She felt unusually nervous and giddy. It wasn’t her first kill, but it was the first one outside the battlefield. This man wasn’t her enemy. He isn’t shooting first. He is waiting to do business. The other people that had also died tonight also weren’t her enemies. Was this right?

No, but she had to do it. There was a voice in the back of her mind, reminding her of her village, of her friends – Tifa – and her mom, people that didn’t deserve Shinra’s cruelty. This man wasn’t her enemy, but he could prevent her loved ones from being hurt. So… collateral damage.

Her knees were a little weak, just like when Zack knocks her off her feet in training. The nervous feeling disappeared, only the giddiness of being one step away from getting the information she needs, filling her with bloodlust. She shouldn’t use the knife, that was just in case of an emergency. The poison material hung heavy in the jacket pocket, but the sharpness of the blade called out to her. Slowly, with soundless steps, she approached her target from behind. Looking at this person now made Cloud wonder why Rufus would feel threatened by him. He was a pitiful man in his late thirties, with tired eyes and a permanent frown on his face. He didn’t even notice her or the animalistic grin plastered on her face. He also didn’t notice the dagger piercing his neck until it was too late, until he choked on his own blood, watching with horror as his world darkened from the lack of air, the scent of sweet blood flooding Cloud’s nose.

The night was quiet. It went well, not perfect, but well. Unfortunately, by Rufus’ orders the body should also be dealt with, so cutting off some of his fingers, Cloud used them as a trail of snacks for the monsters to follow back to the smuggler. The hairless felines seemed content with the warm corpse, even licking the blood away from the pavement. She stayed behind and watched from the shadows and his bones were the only thing left off Vakarma.

3 a.m.

The monsters left, the perfect time for a campfire. Picking a finger bone as a souvenir for Rufus, Cloud began kicking the skeleton in a little pile before setting it on fire with her materia. Burnt bone smells strange, smells like the admission exam in Soldier, of Hojo’s lab, of Turks, and danger. It’s comforting somehow for the blonde. Now it also means the hope of helping her family. She almost laughed. It’s disrespectful to think of such things at someone’s funeral.

Two hours later, Cloud managed to sneak back into her room, after a visit to Rufus’ office. She was surprised to find him there with a stack of files waiting for her on the table. Skimming through them she found out about an old experiment where a scientist tried to mate a Cetra with a human. It didn’t make much sense, but it was a beginning, hopefully.

“This is all?” Cloud asked the blond without lifting her head from the files.

“If you want more, I have another job for you.”

“I don’t see how this ties in with my problem. I don’t want to know about this magic bullshit!”

“It was the easiest file to pull out from Hojo’s clutches. It’s also under the same level of security as the information you are looking for, but I haven’t been able to obtain it yet. This might also help you.”

“Might… You could have waited to give me the info until you had it, but you want me to play mercenary some more?”

“Something like that.” Rufus took the little bone and placed it in a bottle filled with a dense liquid. He walked back to his massive desk, pulling out another set of files. On the first page, the photo of a young woman with green hair made her draw a sharp breath.

“She’s not in the city.”

“I’m not in a hurry to get rid of her. Do it when you have the chance. Go back to have some sleep and make sure to not smell like blood tomorrow.”

The sky gathered the remaining stars, putting them out one by one to make space for the sun that was about to rise in the next half hour.

5 a.m.

Cloud was scrubbing her fingernails trying to get out the blood. There was no blood on her nails, or her hands, or anywhere on her body, due to the clothes fully covering her, but she felt it running down her body like water. She had felt this once before, after killing that man’s son. She felt dirty, like a criminal, turning against the hand that fed her, but she didn’t have a choice. She didn’t have one then, and she doesn’t have one now.

6 a.m.

Her arms start to cramp up from all the scrubbing, her skin glistening red under the now cold water of the shower. There were patches of bloody wounds from all the scratching, around her wrists, chest, and stomach. The sun brought a sick yellow glow to the empty bathroom, bringing to light Cloud’s now crimson-stained nails. Just like then.

6:20 a.m.

The soft buzzing of the phone stopped Cloud from wrapping bandages around her wrist. Sephiroth was asking about her missing breakfast. She wasn’t hungry, no, she was more than full, she felt that her belly could burst from the way her stomach twisted around with guilt. Was this right? No… but, it brought her closer to the end goal.

7 a.m.

After ignoring Sephiroth’s messages for a while, there was a knock on her door. She didn’t bother answering it. She had a key to her apartment already, and as expected the sliver-haired woman let herself in. Her eyes widened when met with the sight of a naked Cloud clutching at her bloody chest the dagger she had given the blonde for her birthday two weeks ago, with sloppy bandaged hands. Just like then… Cloud didn’t bother to acknowledge her lover, only looking straight at the wall, never letting the corpse out of her view. If she did, she was afraid it would become him. The first time she looked away, Vakarma’s body turned into that of his son’s.

"Cloud..."Sephiroth sighed, walking to the counter where she knew Cloud hid her valuable things, pulling out the materia shard. It was cold, but as soon as it made contact with Cloud’s skin it turned a pleasant shade of gold.

The blonde wasn’t startled by the contact with the crystal but shivered when Sephiroth’s fingers brushed against hers when she took the dagger away. Sephiroth gathered the messy and bloody bandages on the floor, picking an antiseptic from the first aid kit. Just like then, she cleaned Cloud’s wound carefully, trying to make as little contact with her skin as possible, telling her some meaningless things from the board meetings to fill the silence.

9 a.m.

Sephiroth convinced Cloud to get dressed and go to her apartment to eat. Just like then. Everything was just like it had been after she returned from the mission where he killed Mike. For days, the pale body with bulging black veins followed her every move. The first night after she returned home, Sephiroth found her in a similar state, only lacking the knife. To Sephiroth it looks like another breakdown, so she doesn’t ask about it. Never once did she pressure Cloud to talk about her experiences, but assured her to listen if she ever needed to take it off of her chest.

But it wasn’t the same this time. Was it right? No. But it was her choice and she had to live with it.

Thankfully the next few targets weren’t as hard to deal with, from a mental standpoint. It was the initial realization that she had been killing for money, no better than a mercenary and now she actually became one for the son of the man that conducts experiments on humans. The information Rufus provided became relevant as weeks went by. Cloud learned about the testing done on animals in hopes of gaining a human intellect by injecting them with mako, human testing on fetuses that apparently had backfired in the past, but has some attempts successful, and Zack’s medical file. Well, more like a specimen file, but there wasn’t anything eye-catching in particular until three months after she had started working with Rufus. Returning after the ninth assassination, she was welcomed with a complicated expression on his face.

There were three sets of files on his desk, two in front of the third. She picked up the first file. ‘Project G’ as she read the notes her eyes widened and her face darkened. This… Genesis… She picked up the next file. It was about Angeal… she felt her stomach turn with disgust. Finally, with trembling hands, she reached the last.

‘Subject C’

“This is…” Cloud was at a loss of words. Tears were prickling the corner of her eyes, tears of frustration, fear, pity for her friends, and anger. Pure rage burned deep in her heart, but she was too shocked to feel it.

“Cloud… I know this isn’t the right time, but did you have any symptoms until now?” Rufus’ tone was uncharacteristically gentle like he was talking to a wounded animal. Maybe he was. It took her a few moments to process what he was asking, and she thought about the past months, her moods, her health, and nothing came to mind.

“No… I-I don’t think… I can’t be… I would have known…” Her legs were about to give out.

“I will look for a trustworthy doctor to check.”

“I have to tell the others…” Cloud scrambled the files back into their binders, fumbling over them with the heavy mist that had covered her mind, hiding her from the reality she has been living, on the battlefield and backstreet alleys, finally lifting, allowing her to see clearly. The abductions, it was all her fault.

Cloud’s mind began turning on all the possible faces of the information she has just read, managing to also send a few distressing texts in the group chat with the Firsts. They all showed up in Sephiroth’s apartment where they found the blonde nursing a cup of something with papers scattered everywhere.

“Isn’t it a little too late for the morning coffee?” Genesis asked, walking around the glass table to sit on the couch.

“It’s vodka.”

Angeal exchanged a worried look with Sephiroth. “Why did you call us here, because by your messages it’s not just for a drink.”

“You are right, this is for me so I don’t throw myself off the tower. You guys might want to sit down for this one.''

Chapter Text

Angeal stood up to water the poor succulent left unattended for weeks, only to be dragged down on the couch by Genesis.

“I’m not done with you.”

“Gen, the face mask can dry while I’m watering my plants.”

“Yes, but while it dries I can work on your hands or feet. So stay down!” Genesis pouted, pointing at the free space next to Sephiroth that wore a charcoal mask, with her long hair loosely braided.

“Angeal, your plants survived worst, sit, it’s the best part of the movie.” The woman shushed him, watching the protagonist of the generic action movie get shot.

He sighed in defeat, slumping back on the soft leather. The four of them – Zack fell asleep half an hour ago when Genesis was massaging some cream for the scars on his shoulder – enjoyed some quality spa time in Genesis’ apartment from time to time when the schedule allowed it. Of course, they could go to the private spa Shinra provides for the employees, but they weren’t used to being this exposed to strangers. Genesis didn’t mind, he enjoyed taking care of his lovers and friends, putting all his love into these little acts of service. You could easily miss the satisfaction in his eyes when he would get all of them content and relaxed, but Angeal didn’t. he has been like this since they were kids, as his parents were overtly affectionate. When Gen would run from home, he would stay whit him and his mother, helping around the house to show his gratitude.

Genesis grabbed a blue glass bottle with body oil, coating his fingers generously with some, before turning Angeal to face the opposite wall so he could work on his shoulders. Angeal watched Zack sleep, a few strands of hair falling over his sharp cheeks. There was a slight smile tugging at his lips, even in dreams he seemed happy. Sometimes Angeal wished he could stop time. In moments like these, when everyone was happy and safe, he hoped to preserve this for eternity. But he couldn’t, you can’t be happy forever in a war. Everything comes to an end at some point.

“Where’s Cloud? Isn’t she in the city?” Angeal turned slightly towards Sephiroth ignoring Genesis’ displeased sound when he changed their position.

“I’m not sure. She left last night to help in the Slums with something Andreea asked her.” Even behind the dark gelatinous mask, Angeal noticed the slight twitch of her lips.

“I thought Andreea told her to stay away from Wall Market- Gen!” Angeal hissed when his lover pressed painfully hard on his spine.

“If you would stop moving around!”

“Maybe it’s unofficial business or that flower girl.”

“Maybe she’s cheating- OW!”

“Genesis!” Angeal slapped the redhead’s thigh.

“What?! I’m just saying what everyone is thinking!”

“What is everyone thinking?” Zack murmured barely opening his eyes.

“That Cloud is cheating on Seph.”

“I’m not thinking about that!” Sephiroth’s voice cracked a little. There was an odd pause before Zack lifted his head from the pillows on the floor.

“I don’t think she’s cheating, but she’s been acting strange. Like, she’s very depressed and always tired.”

“She did have a lot of hard missions in the last few weeks.”

“Did you ask Cloud about it?” Angeal turned to the woman again.

Sephiroth hesitated, still watching the movie, but with less interest. She had thought about the possibility of Cloud cheating, but she never voiced these concerns. Every time she felt it was time to talk about it Cloud would cook her a nice dinner, or tell her some gossip from around the tower distracting her, unintentionally.

“When she comes back, you two should talk!” Genesis got up from behind Angeal, sitting down on the floor to sip some orange juice and eat some snacks from the low coffee table. Their phones buzzed at the same time, snapping the soft haze from all of them. Genesis was the first to check, his eyes narrowing slightly while reading their group chat messages.

BLONDIE: !URGDNT! Seph’s apartment, everyone!!!!!

BLONDIE: Urgenr

BLONDIE: URGENY

BLONDIE: Fuck!!!!!!!!

BLONDIE: You get the idea.

“Speak of the devil.” Genesis sighed.

“It’s just the next door, come on, get up!” Angeal pulled his lover by the arm, then hauled a barely awake Zack on his shoulder. Sephiroth had already wiped off her mask, frowning with concern.

Angeal was the last one to enter the apartment, a strong smell of alcohol floating in the air. He placed Zack down, joining the other two on the outer circle of scattered papers all over the living room. Cloud downed a mug of vodka apparently, watching them.

Angeal exchanged a worried look with Sephiroth. “Why did you call us here, because by your messages it’s not just for a drink.”

“ You guys might want to sit down for this one.”

The blonde shuffled around the room, gathering the scattered papers with one hand and the other directing them to the large couch. Angeal and Genesis gathered in the armchair, while Zack and Sephiroth sat on the couch, leaving a space between them for Cloud. After a short while, she placed two binders, one marked with A and one with G in front of the pair, slumping next to her lover.

“Those are your experiment data.”

“You mean specimen.” Genesis corrected.

“No. Experiment. Experiment A – Angeal Hewley and experiment G – Genesis Rhapsodos. Listen… it’s bad, it’s very bad what’s written in there, so I want you to read it with a calm mindset and listen to me first.” She turned to Zack. “I have found your file some time ago, but there wasn’t anything wrong with it, aside from an ADHD diagnosis.”

“I knew it!” Zack whispered o himself victoriously.

“I haven’t found anything on you Seph, and honestly that makes me more concerned.”

“I would have been more surprised if you had found anything.” Sephiroth placed a reassuring hand on her thigh urging her to take a breath.

“How did you get all this?” Genesis was holding on to Angeal’s neck sitting in his lap. One of his ridiculously muscled arms circled the redhead’s waist.

“Rufus-“

“Ha! I told ya she was cheating!”

“I am not!!” Cloud almost jumped up from her seat before turning to Sephiroth, meeting her ice-cold gaze. “I swear on everything that I love, I did not cheat on you!”

“Then how did you get this?” Sephiroth’s voice was even, but cold.

“I-…I’ve been working for him… like uhhh hitman type of shit…”

“Really?” Genesis’ eyes narrowed down on the shriveled-up blonde. Zack pulled Cloud to his chest, challenging the redhead’s gaze.

“Yes! For the past three months! I swear! That’s why I was out in the Slums so much! He asked me to take out influential people from the underground that were hindering him in his ascension to power. Trafficking ring leaders, prostitute dealers, informants, anyone he told me to I would kill, and in exchange for every one of them, I would get a piece of info. I… I really wasn’t…’’

“I reckon that was a stupid fucking decision!” Angeal pulled Genesis closer on his lap, trying to calm him down.

“Debatable. I got these at least.”

“Ok, I want to read it, if you are done with your villain backstory.” Genesis took the two binders, flipping through the one with his initial.

Cloud’s phone buzzed. She got up from Zack’s embrace, leaning over to Sephiroth. She couldn’t bring herself to touch her, afraid of rejection. “It’s bad, like being lied to your whole life kind of bad. May or may not involve Geal’s mom, so he might get defensive. Honestly, I’m not 100% sure about these, you will be the judge of that. Please believe me when I say I didn’t cheat on you…” She whispered getting up from the couch. Tears prickled at the corner of her eyes.

She wanted to fall apart in Sephiroth’s arms, tell her all about the shitty assassinations, shitty missions, shitty coverups, and shitty meetings that she had to go through. It hurt. Her chest felt tight, expanding painfully with every breath, arms heavy barely held up by her shoulders.

Their eyes met, a pool of dangerous green swallowing all of Cloud’s fear with their gentleness. Sephiroth gave her lips a quick peck. “I trust you, but I am still disappointed. I expect an explanation when you are back.”

“I’ll tell you everything, I promise. I love you…’’

Cloud left the apartment, taking the sliver of security with her Angeal. The entries matched a little too well with events from his childhood, and people he had interacted with back home. His face paled when he reached the last few pages. ‘Experiment A – prof. Gillian Hewley’. He frantically searched the pages for a loop, somewhere where the lie didn’t match, where it wasn’t right. But it all was. Genesis got up from his lap, running to the bathroom. He could hear the redhead vomiting. He wished to go after him, but he was glued to the chair. He felt a warm hand caress his face – probably Zack – but he couldn’t move his eyes away. The warmth left, following Genesis to the bathroom.

“This- it can’t be… It’s a lie… It’s a lie! It has to be!” He shrieked.

Sephiroth was already skimming through the other binder. She sighed in defeat, putting it back on the table shortly. “No, it’s true. It’s similar to mine.”

“No, Seph you don’t understand! My mother- MY MOTHER WOULDN’T DO THIS TO ME!”

“Seems like she did.” Genesis’ hoarse voice creeps into the living room from the narrow hallway.

“Gen, you know her! YOU KNOW HER JUST AS WELL AS ME-“

“Maybe we don’t…”

“Genesis!”

“Angeal!” The redhead reached the armchair, meeting his lover’s crazed gaze. His body heat was higher than usual, small sparks lighting at his fingertips.

In a flash, Genesis found himself pinned against the nearest wall, gasping for air under Angeal’s crushing grip.

“Gillian- did… all this… before… you” His face was turning red, vision slightly blurry. Angeal was breathing hard, like he ran a marathon, pinning him by not only his strength but with his gaze as well. He could hit Angeal back, give him a hell of a burn, but it wouldn’t help. He followed the frantic wave of Zack’s arms, trying to get to him, but was held back by Sephiroth.

“Angeal, let him go!’’

Genesis felt his windpipe almost get crushed. Angeal looked back at where Sephiroth was sat, back straight, arms locked around Zack’s shoulders, immobilizing him. He understood the underlying order, letting go of his neck.

“Chocking Genesis won’t solve anything.” Zack kept quiet, checking Genesis to see if he was ok. Angeal turned to leave.

“Avoidance isn’t the answer either.” He stopped at the door, looking back at Genesis, now sitting cross-legged on the floor trying to catch his breath.

“I’m sorry i-…. I need some time to think.”

Cloud paced in front of the black doors, waiting for them to open. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Rufus called her in. They did not need to exchange words as they walked through the secret corridors in the tower, leading to the private parking lot where a car was waiting for them. A simple black car, with tinted windows, lacking the distinctive plate number of the Shinra company. Cloud could only spare one glance at the white motorcycle, parked near the other exit, freshly washed and polished. It was a present from Angeal for Sephiroth’s birthday, a month ago.

The ride to the clinic was uneventful, but long, about two hours and a half so she had the time to dose off, cheek against the cold window. When they reached their destination, Rufus gently shook her out of her slumber, still not uttering a word.

Cloud wasn’t entirely sure where they were, recognizing the architecture from Kalm, but none of the places she had been to already. The building was on the outskirts of
a smaller village, painted white like most hospitals. There weren’t any other patients so the doctor called them in immediately. She recognized the antiseptic stench, burning her sensitive nostrils, making it just a little harder to breathe. The check-up ended fast. Faster than she was ready, but there was no stopping now. The nurse spread the goopy substance over her abdomen, feeling around with a plastic wand. Somehow she was grateful that the screen was not facing her, but at the same time, it was mortifying trying to discern the doctor’s expression.

It hurt slightly, the way she was pushing, but Cloud didn’t dare move a muscle, barely breathing. Even laying down she was starting to get dizzy, words and images flashing through her mind. Fear, despair, hope. Finally, the doctor began wiping down the gel off of her abdomen, smiling at her. She spoke in a soft, quiet voice, just like at the beginning of the check-up, but she might as well have stabbed her.

“Congratulations! You are 11 weeks pregnant!”

There was a deafening silence following, when she learned that the baby was healthy and that she would call the father in, before exiting the room herself. Rufuscosed the door behind him, soundlessly.

“Cloud-“

“This isn’t happening…”

He inched closer, taking her trembling hands into his. When did they start shaking? When did her body start shaking? When did the tears start to fall?

“It’s ok-“

“No, it’s not.”

“We can deal with this.”

“No… I can’t…”

“I’ll help you. I promise I’ll keep you safe. He could never touch-“

“No!” Their eyes met. Cloud’s face twisted, eyes narrowing at the blond. She forced her libs to stop trembling and forced her lungs to breathe normally. “I want an abortion.”

“Cloud!”

“You heard me! I am not dealing with this! I don’t want this!”

“Please think this through a little more! I know this isn’t an ideal situation, but I have been thinking and it wouldn’t be that bad-“

“For who?!” She would scream, but who knows who’s listening? “For you? For you to get an heir? If you want a child, find someone else! This is a life sentence to me, Rufus!”

“I can protect you!”

“Can you protect my mother? The people that have already been kidnapped? The people that will be ripped from their families, because I carry your spawn?”

For the first time since they met, Rufus had nothing to say. His head hung low. “Now?”

“The sooner the better.”

He turned towards the door, defeated. She didn’t expect him to want a child, let alone one made by mistake, but he…

“Rufus!” She called getting up from the bed. “Maybe, in some other circumstances…”

“In another life then…?’’ His voice was strained.

"Yeah.”

“I’ll get the doctor. I’ll give you a few moments.”

“Thank you.”

In the white room, the blonde clutched at her chest forcing herself to breathe. A hand rests over her belly while whispering soft apologies. ‘In another life’, ‘I wouldn’t be a good mom anyway’, ‘I’ll find you in the afterlife…’. Then prayers. Prayers to the planet to take care of her child, in a way she never could and would never be able to. Finally, she wiped away her tears just in time for the doctor to step back in to explain the procedure.

A few hours later, close to midnight, Cloud found herself wandering alone again in the Shinra Tower. It was tempting to go back to her apartment, to lock herself in the gray box and cry until there was nothing left of her. Ultimately, she debated turning back again for the third time, but the door to Sephiroth’s apartment opened unexpectedly.

Sephiroth stood quietly, holding the door open for her to enter. There was no time for hesitation since she was pulled inside anyway in a tight embrace. Cloud froze. Jasmine scent enveloped her alongside a familiar warmth, that now felt like a punch in the face.

“You never answered my messages.”

Sephiroth let go of her, noticing her stiffness and ushering her to the bedroom. There was a change of pajamas on the bed for her, but she couldn’t bare look, or touch them. Dirty.

"I had to leave my phone home so we wouldn’t be tracked.”

Sephiroth didn't push her to sit, instead sat down to make herself as less threatening as possible. She recognized the signs of an impending panic attack, but she couldn’t do much about it with Cloud on the verge of dissociating.

The general began questioning her about how she started working with Rufus. It took a little longer for the blonde to tie in the sentences, but she learned about her mother telling her about sudden disappearances, then her starting to snoop around for clues, finally leading her to make a deal with Rufus. She also learned about the many mission she had to complete while working on the assignments given by Shinra, sometimes going on an assassination right after returning from a mission. In the end, they got to the events of today with Cloud sitting crosslegged at the edge of the bed, not touching anything, gaze unfocused, and words spilling from her mouth with tears streaming down her face.

“I fucked up- I really… I-“ Cloud sobbed, explaining the simple procedure. She was awake the whole time, but it didn’t hurt. Not physically, no. But a part of her soul died there.

Sephiroth felt anger bubbling under her skin, a tear joining the wet patch already formed on the bed. Gently, she pulled Cloud to her chest.

“Breathe, love, with me. We are going to fix this. I’m here for you.”

Some hours later, Cloud was tucked in, finally asleep after almost six hours of sobbing, breaking down, apologizing, and constant reassurance from her lover. The sun had almost risen over the metal plate. Sephiroth watched over her, listening to the broken words escaping her chapped lips. She couldn’t help woned when was the last time Cloud had slept or eaten. Anyone watching the scene from afar would stumble upon a bitter-sweet display, but under the soft kiss placed on the sweaty forehead, there was a promise forged with blood and rage.

Some would say the eyes are the windows to the soul, but at that moment Sephiroth’s eyes were the gates to Hell. The Demon of Shinra welcomed the crimson glow of the sun by sharpening Masume in slow, even motions. Thinking.

Chapter Text

Cloud woke up late in the afternoon, tears already dry on her face. In the few blissful moments of peace, basking in the golden sun she debates getting up from the bed. Then, the antibiotics bottle comes into view, and the semblance of normality is shattered. Of course, until now she chose to ignore the slight pain in her abdomen, but it becomes a painful reminder of the day before, of the future she can’t have.

She heard a voice, probably Zack, coming from the living room. She groaned, pushing herself up from the bed, feeling the familiar burn in her muscles. There was a change of new clothes laid out on the bed for her and a glass of water next to the bed, probably placed by Sephiroth.

<>

She was slowly taking a shower, trying not to think about everything when her hands glided along the soft skin of her belly.

The debate outside was getting noisy, from what she could tell between brushing her teeth and watching her move obsessively in the mirror. Something didn’t look right. Her face was too pale, almost translucent like a ghost, even if it was late in the summer. Her nose had a little bump, where it had been broken by one of the gang leaders she had taken out and one from a wutaian soldier in Rocket Town. It’s not right. There are now dark circles under her eyes. It’s not right. Her left index finger is a little too stiff from when it was broken along with the entire arm, avoiding a grenade some months back. It’s not right. Her blonde hair, a washed-up color of gold, with hints of a rose undertone, laid flat against her head, barely reaching her shoulders, lifeless. It's not right. That’s not-

<> Before she could register the sudden rush of rage, the mirror shattered, her fist plunging violently into the wall, forming a few cracks along it.

Trembling, she fell to the ground, on her knees, drinking in the sweet scent of blood coming from her legs, pierced by little shards of glass. It hurt, but it hurt so well. There was a knock on the door, but she couldn’t form the words to answer. She couldn’t distinguish who was calling her, between the harsh breaths.

“I’ll break the door down if you don’t answer me! Cloud, come on it’s, Zack.”

Oh, Zack… she got up, trying to brush away the glass shards, but it only made them sink deeper, causing her to hiss in pain. “ ‘M fine… Gimme a sec!” Cloud quickly put on her clothes, cursing at the shorts that did nothing to cover her fresh wounds. Oh, well. Finally, she opened the door, almost coming in contact with Zack’s ready fist.

“Oh, sorry! You stopped answering.”He looked past the blonde at the shattered mirror, then at the droplets of blood stuck to the bathroom floor, then to her crimson-stained legs. “Cloud… why did-?”

“I fell.” She turned her back to him, walking into the living room where Sephiroth had already pulled out the first-aid kit, waiting patiently for Cloud to drop on the couch next to her. Zack followed behind, sitting between Genesis and Angeal, at the foot of the armchair.

“Quite the entrance,” Genesis mumbled, stretching his arms over his head. He seemed to have barely woken up, but there were dark circles around his eyes, as well as Angeal’s. Sephiroth pulled one of Cloud’s legs in her lap, beginning to fish out the shards with precision.

Cloud leaned to give her a kiss on the cheek, before whispering softly, “Sorry about the mirror.”

“Don’t worry about it.”

For a few minutes, Sephiroth worked in silence, cleaning up the remaining blood and then bandaging both legs. Angeal remained with his arms crossed and legs spread in a domineering manner, but to Cloud, he seemed defensive. Genesis was curled up in his armchair, with a purple bruise blooming on his neck. Zack watched the two of them while holding gently the blonde’s hand.

“I see you guys didn’t take well the news.”

“I’m not sure how you expected us to receive the news that all our lives were a lie, that my parents aren’t actually my parents-“

“Ok, I get the idea! I was just expecting Angeal to interrogate me as soon as he saw me.”

“Oh, he tried to go after you, but he wasn’t able to find you.” Angeal huffed annoyed at Genesis, still not meeting his eyes. “Where did you go yesterday, by the way?”

“I- I was with Rufus…”

“Of course!”

“Gen!” Zack warned. His grip on Cloud’s hand tightened.

“And why is that?”

Cloud took a deep breath, trying to swallow the clump forming in her throat. Sephiroth squeezed lightly at her leg, making sure to avoid the cuts. “He found my file and after that, we ended our agreement.” She didn’t look back at Seph, but she could guess the calculating look in the green eyes.

“What did it say?” Zack asked in a hushed voice as if he was afraid to even inquire about it. It made Cloud wonder how badly Angeal and Genesis took it to make Zack feel threatened by the subject.

“First, have you guys had anything to eat today? Because I promise, you won’t have much of an appetite after this.”

“No, none of us have,” Sephiroth answered for everyone. Angeal seemed to want to protest, but he was shut down by an icy look. Cloud got up from the couch and walked to the kitchen where she was quickly joined by Zack. Sephiroth went to the bathroom to assess the damage, leaving Genesis and Angeal alone in the living room.

Both remained seated, lost in their thoughts, seemingly not perceiving the other person. Along the lines of finding a good apology, Angeal’s gaze fell on his lover’s neck, where blue and purple bruises littered his pale skin. Even in summer, Genesis maintained his jade white complexion, unlike Angeal and Zack that got a pleasant tan from missions in the desert. The redhead unconsciously covered his bruise with his hand, playing with the skin from his cuticles, pulling at it until his fingers bled.

"Gen-“

“I don’t want to hear it!” Genesis pulled harder on the little piece of skin.

“I’m sorry…”

“You’d better be! Now I have to wear turtlenecks in the summer! And I have a sore throat!”

“I was out of line and-“ Genesis waved his hand disguisedly, finally looking back at Angeal. His blue eyes were red around the corners and his mouth trembled when he spoke.

“I don’t want to hear this from you, it means nothing to me and you know it. I am livid, Angeal. I will continue to be mad at you for some time, and until I calm down your apologies mean close to shit. But, we are adults and I am capable of having an adult conversation, unlike some people. You can apologize after I have dealt with my urge to throw you out to slum rats, but for now, this tension isn’t just affecting us, it’s affecting Zack and the girls as well.”

“I’m so-“

“Do NOT interrupt me!” Genesis got up from his chair, closing in the distance between them, towering over Angeal. “I love you, but I can’t get over something like this easily. Unfortunately, we don’t seem to have time to work through this as usual, so I will forgive you for the sake of not complicating things for everyone, but I want you to remember that I can forgive but don’t forget. Another slip-up and I’m dicing you up! Do you understand?”

Angeal nodded, not taking his eyes off of his boyfriend. He was scared to, or else he might get swallowed alive by the burning flame that seeped through Genesis’ skin.

"You should also apologize to Zack. He did nothing wrong and you treated him like shit. Just because we get the short end of the stick, it doesn’t mean we get to take it out on everyone else, especially not on family!”

Angeal could only nod, as his chest painfully tightened at the mention of family. His family was a lie. His mother made him with the sole purpose of creating a weapon. Not out of love for his inexistent father, not out of a will to pass on the family name, and traditions, but because she wanted to one-up another scientist’s project. When he called her to ask the truth, he was met with another person’s voice, informing him that his mother had committed suicide, leaving a note for him. When he heard this, Angeal rushed out of his apartment looking for Cloud. Zack tried to hold him back but to no avail.

He had imagined that catching Cloud and getting off that twisted rage that was gathering in his mind would somehow fix it all. Thinking about it now, he felt ashamed, about blaming Cloud, about attacking Genesis and Zack.

Cloud came back into the living room, carrying a few plates with omelets stacked upon each other. The tension quickly wore off during their late evening breakfast. Sephiroth joined them after a few minutes having finished cleaning the glass shards from the bathroom.

“You left a dent in the wall.”

“Oh, ‘m sorry.” Cloud stuffed another piece of tomato into her mouth.

“It’s fine. I’m relieved your strength evolved this much.” Sephiroth ruffled her short hair placing a piece of bacon on her plate.

“Stop being gross in front of my salad!” Zack punched the blonde’s arm lightly, receiving a foot in the stomach in return.

A small smile tugged at Angeal’s lips. At least he had this family. He looked to Genesis again. This was all the family that he needed moving forward. The plates were soon stacked back on the kitchen counter.

“Now, enlighten us with your predicament.”

“Ok. Well…in short… turns out I’m fertile and Hojo wants to turn me into a human incubator.”

“What the actual fuck?!” Zack blurted out.

“Yeah… uhh… and the reason I found your files with mine was that you three were on the most suitable mates. I’m not sure how he planned to get me … impregnated… by any of you but…”

“You were right, I suddenly feel the need to erase the mental capacities of my brain.” Genesis stared blankly at the wall, imagining the few scenarios in which he unknowingly rap- became mates with Cloud.

“So, yeah… Holy Gaia, it sounds worst when I say it out loud.”

“It sounded bad the first time as well,’’ Sephiroth noted dully.

“So what now?” After a prolonged silence Angeal was the first to speak.

“I’m going home.”

“That’s where they will look for you first.”

“You want to defect?” Zack asked, worried.

“Yes. There is no point in me staying here when my people need me and my safety is put at risk.” Cloud bit the inside of her cheek, watching the light in Zack’s eyes die. His dream, his passion was dedicated to the same people that hurt his lovers and friends. Of course, the logical answer would be defection, but to him, honor stands above all. As such, betraying his dreams, even if it is for the better, seems to take a bigger toll than expected.

“I understand leaving, I don’t want to stay in this god-forsaken place any longer, but where should we go? Going home would mean certain death for any of us since they will be there expecting us, right from the moment we step foot astray from their orders.”

“I have to remind you, but being an experiment to Hojo is a life sentence. He will track down his ‘play-things’ anywhere, anytime.” Sephiroth gathered Cloud into her arms, drawing shooting patterns on her thigh. “I tried to run away once when I was very young. There was also this mother and daughter pair, they lived down the hall from where I spent my childhood and they managed to escape, but they are monitored still. There is no escaping Hojo.” Sephiroth straightened her back. Cloud felt how tense she was, but she could address that later.

“What if we kill Hojo?”

“Impossible, the prez is backing him up.”

“Take him out as well.”

“Are you hearing yourself?!”

“I’d rather die trying than on Hojo’s table. Besides, we may have Rufus’ backing. That or Wutai, but that depends on the situation back home.”

“So-“ Zack spoke in a low voice “if the only way out is defection, I say we go out with a bang.”

A few hours later, Cloud found herself again in bed, snuggled closely to Sephiroth’s chest, counting her breaths. Their plan-making summed up to nothing but the certainty that about a hundred Soldiers would be willing to defect with them. To Shinra, that number isn’t significant, but to Wutai, it might mean the difference between losing and winning the war. That poses a problem as well, they had no means of contacting Wutai.

Cloud ran her hand over the smooth pale skin on Sephiroth’s thigh. Even in the late hours of the night, they couldn’t fall asleep. She guessed it was from the medication and cramps, but there was also something scratching at her brain.

"Seph!"

“Mn…” She barely opened her eyes, placing a kiss on her forehead.

“You said that you tried to escape from Hojo before… were you born here?”

“Yes.”

Sometimes, Cloud forgot about the mesmerizing light of her lover’s eyes, but on nights like these, when she lay on her chest, mapping her face with her eyes, she would always get lost in them. Cloud’s eyes glowed as well, but they couldn’t compare to the brilliant green in front of her.

“Your parents?”

“I haven’t met them. I only know that my mother’s name is Genova.”

“And your father?”

“I supposed Hojo didn’t find him important enough to be remembered by his daughter.” She watched as water gathered in her eyes, making her vision blurry, but never spilling on her cheeks.

“I’m sorry.” Cloud cupped her face gently, kissing her eyelids one at a time.

“What about your father? You never talk about him.”

“He died before I was born.”

The blonde paused, taking a sharp breath.

“You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.”

“I do. I get emotional, that’s all. Do you want to hear the story of our greatest warrior, Storm Strife?”

“I would like that.”

“As all stories start, we begin from the beginning, about 25 years ago. My father was the next in line to be chief of the village, a brilliant fighter, and a gifted leader. For Storm Strife, all seemed to be going well. He had met a young girl, Claudia, whom he desperately struggled to impress, to his family’s distaste. At the ripe age of 23, he becomes chief and marries my mother. The alliance between the northern villages has never been stronger and the commerce with furs and ores was blooming, until the spring came. They had heard about a great power rising in the east, by the mane of Shinra, but they deemed it non-threatening.”

“A big mistake.”

“Yeah… Well, in the following spring, Shinra troops marched up the mountain, asking for the villages to submit. Of course, there was no way anyone would listen to such requests, so the war started. Led by my father, the alliance held on as long as possible, but there was simply too much of a difference in power and weaponry. You see, our villages are shielded from the world. We never imagined that an enemy wouldn’t come from inside the mountains but from the outside. As such, our methods are old, effective against each other, maybe even against Wutai, but not Shinra. The war lasted a year and a half. My mother was in her fourth month with me, when they captured the other alliance leaders. Shinra offered to spare them, in exchange for my father’s life, as the leader of the resistance.”

“I’m sorry about your father. He seemed to be a great man.”

“He was…”

“There is something I don’t understand. You said you and your mother aren’t favored in the village, but you are the chief’s daughter and the next chief in line.”

“After the war, Shinra forced us to have a mayor instead of a chief. It didn’t change anything for us, but the Lockhearts had wanted the leadership role for a long time. I wasn’t even born when the power shift happened, and my mom doesn’t have the right to rule, even if she is the chief's wife. As such, mayor Lockheart took the role for himself, even if the council doesn’t recognize him.”

Cloud’s eyes widened in the dark. “The council never recognized him…”

“Yes, you just said that.”

“The council recognizes me…”

“I suppose it’s a good thing?” Sephiroth watched with a puzzled expression as Cloud got up from the bed and began mumbling to herself. A few minutes later the blonde stopped pacing and turned on the light.

“Seph! Do you know what this means?!”

“I’m not sure?”

“It means that I have the right to call a council meeting! And that way I can speak with the whole alliance! And I bet someone has to have ties with Wutai! Plus we would have their support! Meaning-!”

Cloud jumped on the bed, kissing Sephiroth violently. “We can not only join Wutai in the war, but we can also bring almost the whole western continent against Shinra!”

“Slow, down a little! It’s a long shot, do you think you can convince them?”

“Not as I am now, but with at least 50 Soldiers and Shinra’s leading generals, it’s possible. I think…”

Sephiroth’s arm circled Cloud’s waist, pulling the blonde in her lap. “Maybe, but we can’t be sure of anything, it’s better we wait. We’ll find a way eventually. For now, it’s late and unlike you, I haven’t slept the entire day.” She pushed her down on the bed, keeping her close.

Cloud pulled the covers over them, noting how big Sephiroth’s body was next to hers. She couldn’t fall asleep just yet, so she tried to remember the stories her mother had told her about the other villages. With a lot of luck, it might just work. They might be able to break free of Shinra.

Chapter Text

Cloud hid behind a boulder, bracing for the incoming grenade. Someone died again, their insides flying around, some painting the walls red, some splashing Cloud’s already dirty face. Their captain shouts some orders, but they mostly fall on deaf ears, as the main gate of the outpost blows open. There is barely any cover left, but they can’t lose this outpost. Well, Shinra can’t lose this outpost, but Cloud smiled at the idea of losing this fight. Fortunately, their order to retread was soon to come, as the ammunition storage caught fire, destroying another wing of the outpost. If they wished to see the next day, they had to leave now.

The edges of her sword were chipped away by the rain of bullets following her to the inner gate. The air is harsh against her skin, in her lungs, and down her throat.

“Strife! What’s the situation?”

“The gate is wide open, I’m low on munition and the other members of my squad are dead!” she gasped for air, fighting the fatigue threatening to put her to sleep.

There were few of them left, only three Soldiers and a handful of troopers, heavily wounded and exhausted. The ground shook as a missile made contact with the inner gate. The captain looked between the injured, sighing in defeat.

“Retreat to base!”

Cloud reviewed the maps again, going over the marked bases. Genesis bounced his leg at a steady pace, seemingly lost in the snowy mountains as his other advisors worked on a new plan. Cloud ended up as one of his advisors due to the loss of the southern outpost. She noticed one of the other sergeants pulling out a pack of cigarettes and placing one on the table.

“Sir, we may be wrecking our brains for nothing. What’s the point of making a strategy against Wutai if we are joining them anyway?”

“We are doing this to not raise too much suspicion from Shinra. We might not be able to leave this instance, and should we fail missions without an explanation we will face dire consequences!” he explained, turning to the rest of them. Another reason why Cloud became an advisor was that they were the only people aware of the future desertion of the Firsts. Angeal was somewhere around Rocket Town, also preparing to abandon the battlefield.

For the past weeks, the five of them had worked to create a secure network in Midgar for Soldiers that wanted to join them and for discussions with Wutai. Cloud tried to make contact with the Northern Alliance, hoping that her lineage would be of some help to the cause, but they all turned her down. She didn’t expect the majority of the villages to have changed their beliefs, even agreeing with Shinra. She rubbed the dark bruise on her torso from an altercation with one of the village leaders.

Cloud made eye contact with the sergeant that placed the pack on the table, pleading with her eyes for one. The pale man smiled, his thick mustache brushing against his lower lip. Before he could ask Genesis for a break, the redhead sighed deeply.

“I think it’s enough for today, you are right. We will commence tonight, Angeal has confirmed this morning the rendezvous point. I want all of you ready for 0200, understood?”

“Yes sir!”

“Good dismissed! Cloud, you stay!”

The blonde slumped back in her chair in defeat. The sergeant slipped her the pack when he left the room, patting her shoulder. After the others left, Cloud opened a window to climb into the narrow space to sit. The cold air sent shivers down her spine causing her hands to tremble a little when she lit the cigarette. The two remained silent while Cloud smoked watching the commotion in the base. News were spreading fast.

“Angeal is sending Zack back in Midgar…”

“What?” Cloud almost jumped back inside, but quickly remembered the smoke alarms that were set off by Genesis’ outbursts a little too often.

She noticed the slouch on her friend’s shoulders, red hair sitting lifeless on his back because he didn’t have time to trim it anymore. His signature red eyeliner was missing and dark circles adorned his eyes.

“This isn’t the plan!”

“I know… but he might be right,” he took a deep breath scrunching his nose at the strong smell of smoke “I’m also sending you back…”

“What the fuck?! I’m not going back there!”

“We have no guarantee that Wutai won’t turn on us the moment we step into their territory! I will not put any of you in danger unnecessarily!”

“But you and Angeal can take the risk?!” Cloud throws the crushed bud out the window, jumping next to the chair Genesis was still sitting on.

“Enough!” He slammed his hands on the table. “I have made my decision! You will leave tonight and report back our defection. From then on it’s Seph’s call.”

“Gen-“

“That’s an order Strife! It’s my last fucking order to you as your general so you better fucking listen to me! If- If anything happens to me or Angeal…” His arms seemed to almost give up under the weight of his body. “Take care of them… it’s your job to take care of Zack and Seph, do you understand?”

“I will, but Gen-“

“No! Cloud, understand what I’m saying please! Promise me! Promise me that you will take care of them… “ He finally raised his head, tears streaming silently down his face, choking him. “Take care of my Zack… please… I’m begging you…”

“I will. I promise!”

"Good..." He pulled Cloud against his chest, cradling her head to his shoulder, trying to control his breathing. Her arms wrapped around his waist with the same force, forcing herself to memorize every detail about him, his smell, his heartbeats, the feeling of his uniform.

Genesis smiled against her hair, squeezing her arms, then her shoulders, letting her go. “You’ve turned in a fine woman, Cloud. It seems that Zack is quite the teacher, molding you like this.”

"I can't stay a punchbag for your Firaga forever!”

“I wish you could…” he sighed, whipping away the tears, “I don’t think I will be able to come to see you again before you leave, so this is our goodbye, my friends, for our fates are cruel-“

“Don’t you dare quote ‘Loveless’ again! And stop being so depressive, it’s not a ‘goodbye’, it’s a ‘see you soon’! We’ll be right behind you, me Zack, and Seph! So don’t go around setting Wutai on fire! You and Angeal better make a good impression!”

“All right you little shit, you know how to ruin an emotional moment! We’ll be careful. Now, you have received your orders. Dismissed!”

Cloud smiled, straightening her back before saluting Genesis one last time. After she closed the door to his office, every step she took felt foreign, as if she was living through a dream. Every step brought her further from Shinra and closer to the future she had long buried deep inside her soul.

Chapter Text

She looked over the mountains, sighing in relief when the helicopter passed a region with violent winds. Zack, Sephiroth, and Cloud were sent to Nibleheim to check a faulty mako reactor.

She was surprised at first about their staff of choice, sending two First Class for a routine mission, but then she remembered that the war was over. Shinra had won, reducing Wutai’s territory in half, and decimating the remaining army. Gen and Angeal must have been too late to join the fight. Hopefully, they were still alive. The two haven’t initiated any contact after a brief conversation confirming their forces successfully joining Wutai. They also provided an emergency number for their friends in case they needed help leaving.

Fate was on their side this time, it seemed, since receiving this mission was the perfect pretext for leaving. A little too perfect. Sephiroth stressed the possibility of it being a trap, but they devised a plan nonetheless.

The blonde looked around at the foot soldiers that joined them. She felt a pang o guilt thinking about their predicament, but it was either them or her family. Zack was piloting the helicopter and arguing with Sephiroth. Somehow he managed to convince her to drive.

“Prepare for landing!” Zack shouted.

“Don’t crash us, Zack!”

Some of the soldiers chuckled nervously, while others clutched their seatbelts. She noticed the young cadet next to her, breathing heavily.

“It was a joke, Zack is a decent driver, don’t worry.”

“Yes ma’am!”

She stared a little surprised at the cadet, looking at the horrendous masks covering their faces. She knew none of them from before, a new batch of recruits. But they addressed her with ma’am… of course they did, Cloud was a Lieutenant now.

The helicopter started to descend on a platform near the village. They had a little to walk on foot, so Cloud took the lead, taking in the nostalgic sights.

“How are you feeling?” Sephiroth came next to her, looking at the narrow path in front of them. The general stepped first, holding the blonde by her forearm.

“Giddy. And scared I guess.” The two of them waited at the end of the pathway for the rest to arrive. They heard a muffled scream from the other side, distressed chatter from the soldiers, then hurried steps. Finally, a soldier reached them with his helmet off and eyes wide.

“Lt. Fair- he- HE KILLED THEM!”

Cloud looked at him with a warm smile and patted his cheek. ”We know.” She smiled even brighter when she pushed him off the ledge.

Zack emerged from the narrow pathway, cleaning the Buster Sword of blood on the white snow.

“Let’s not do this again!”

“I don’t think we’ll betray the same company twice.”

“Mark your words!”

“Let’s go, we don’t want to be out here at nightfall. There is a cavern system up ahead.”

Their walk to the village was quiet, only interrupted by the hollow thrill of the wind. The caverns twisted and turned confusingly, but the blonde knew the way from her childhood. After a few hours, they reached the entrance, where poorly painted gates opened for them.

The mayor smiled, his eyes crinkling with old age. A young woman with long straight black hair was next to him, dressed in a cowgirl costume.

“Welcome to our humble village!”

“Hi, mayor Lockheart! Miss me?” The mayor registered the voice, his eyes widening slightly at the sight of the blonde.

“Cloud!” Tifa shouted, jumping on her friend. They hugged and laughed while Sephiroth stared down at the mayor.

“Ahem, Tifa! Forgive my daughter.” He said, signing Tifa to come to his side.

“Mayor, actually we need to discuss something. And I still have to thank you for the indispensable help you provided during the council discussions!" Cloud mocked. She didn’t let go of Tifa’s hand.

“Common language, Cloud.” Sephiroth gently reminded. She placed her hand on her lower back, taking the lead.

“Mayor Lockheart we aren’t here on official business, quite the opposite, and I have to apologize for the trouble, but we need your help.”

The older man looked between the three of them, as Tifa finally left their side with a silent ‘sorry’ on her lips. Zack had a carefree smile on his lips, but his body was tense, ready to strike at any moment. Cloud was changed, a little taller, her features sharper, more defined, limbs thicker with muscle and back broader. For a second he saw in her the image of Storm, asking him to help ally the villages against Shinra.

“I’ll show you where you will be staying. We can discuss your problem later, I believe you had a long trip.”

Cloud sighed in relief, slumping slightly against Sephiroth in their shared room. The motel type of building they had in the village was small, to begin with, so the people working in it were relieved to have to clean only one room. Cloud wanted to go home to spend some time with her mom, so Zack and Seph would be sharing the room.

“I thought I’ll never be back!”

“Missed home?”

“Very much! Zack, Tifa said she’s waiting for you at the main gate to show you around! You’d better be back by dinner time, you wouldn’t want to miss mom’s food!”

Zack emerged from the bathroom, wrapped in furs and clothes provided by the mayor. After explaining their situation, the mayor agreed to help them temporarily. They could stay for a short period, then the village will make sure their disappearance looked like a tragic accident. After shaking Shinra off for some time, they would sneak into Wutai territory reuniting with Angeal and Genesis.

“We’ll be back, don’t worry!”

After the overexcited Soldier left the room, Sephiroth hugged Cloud from behind, sliding her hands into the soft fabric of her shirt. “Are you going to tell your mother?”

“I have to… I can’t leave her hanging…” The hands moved up, caressing her sides, feeling the toned muscles of her torso. Sephiroth placed a soft kiss under her ear, holding her close, smelling the soft scent of the forest lingering in her hair.

“When all of this is over, let’s return here. I find this village quite charming.”

“Oh, I don’t think you will like the winters here, miss ‘I use a bottle of shampoo per shower’!”

“I can adjust.”

“It would make a good home… Speaking of home, why don’t we go to mine? I can show you around tomorrow.”

“I finally get to meet the mother of my lovely girlfriend, how could I wait any longer!”

“She’ll love you, don’t worry.”

After the necessary, ‘you have grown so much’, ‘I can barely recognize you’, and such, Sephiroth and Claudia got acquainted, over a cup of rose tea. The mother and daughter pair talked about the changes in the village, gossiping about the important events that Cloud missed. Sephiroth intervened at times to inquire about the people in question, but for the most part, she remained silent, watching the two with a ghost smile on her face.

At some point the topic switched to how Sephiroth and Cloud had gotten together at which point, Cloud conveniently noticed the fence that needed repairing.

“Nonsense, I want to hear more about this love story of yours, the fence can wait!”

“Ma! What if wolves get in?”

“Cloud, we are a family of hunters!”

"I’ll be quick, you two can get to know each other better!” The blonde darts through the door, kissing Sephiroth as an apology before leaving. The general promptly gave her a pointed look, cursing under her breath. The Demon of Wuati felt a shiver run in between her ribs. She wasn’t sure if it was because of the cold or because of her mother’s stare. The ashen woman looked her up and down, her gray eyes narrowing. She took a sip of the tea to try and swallow the lump in her throat.

"When I told Cloud to find an older person to take care of her, I didn’t think she would listen so diligently.”

Sephiroth almost choked. “Excuse me?”

“I was hoping for someone to pull her away from a life of danger, but that blockhead doesn’t stop when she gets an idea, regardless of how absurd it is. And look at her, a SOLDIER and a Lieutenant at that!”

Sephiroth smiled. “Cloud has come a long way.”

“It’s thanks to you and the other boys! You have my gratitude for giving my daughter this chance!”

The smile froze on her lips. A chance, yes she had offered Cloud a chance at becoming a pawn in a war for greedy people, a chance at losing the autonomy over her body, a chance at losing-

“She worked hard, harder than most people to be here today.”

“I know…” Claudia looked outside at her daughter easily fixing the fence. In the past, she would struggle under the weight of the planks of wood, but now they looked like toothpicks in her hands. “I lied to her, but I think you should now. Cloud received support from the council, I have the letters. If it comes to it, there is an aunt of hers in the southernmost region that can hide you. Don’t tell Cloud, but keep this in mind.” The woman turned to Sephiroth again, eyes closing in defeat. Only now did she notice the small crests in her pale face, the white hairs sticking out from her bun. “She loves you, General, I can see it in her eyes, but do you love her?”

“I do.” She answered without hesitation.

“Then protect her with your life. I’m old, I can’t keep her safe anymore…”

Sephiroth looked outside at the Cloud, her companion, her lover, her friend. “I will protect her to my dying breath.”

Green glowing eyes looked back at her, sinking in a disfigured head. Long silver hair framed the thin skin barely holding onto the bones of the face. There was a ringing filling the air, making her head spin, and yet she didn’t feel the pang of a headache. No. The room was spinning. Or was it? Pale lips stretched around a white tube, now covered in grime, residual mako, and blood. The smell burned her nose, but she didn’t feel the pain, she remembered how it felt.

She studied the torso filled with tubs. There was an unnatural glow to the skin and veins, a green glow. Tubs connected to where limbs should have been. She raised her gaze to the face again, but this time the tube was gone. Instead, the sour taste of mako filled her mouth, invading her esophagus. Pain tore through her arms, but she couldn’t scream around the tube skinking deeper into her stomach.

Through the pained moans and tears streaming down her cheeks, she distinguished metal walls and a steel bridge leading to a round platform on which she was standing. Her arms disconnected at the junction of the shoulders slowly, pulling with very little force so that she would feel every muscle fiber snap, every tendon break and every cartilage rip from the bone. She closed her eyes, praying to gods she didn’t even know, but they must have not heard her in time, since her legs followed next.

All this time, the green eyes watched her with a sadistic smile stretching the dead skin of the face. She closed her eyes at some point, hoping to pass out from the pain, but the slow and steady pull of the legs kept her awake. Finally, her limbs have been removed, falling pathetically on the steel floor.

The pale face regained some of its natural color, lips gaining a pale pink. The tubes were now missing from the torso of the woman, being replaced with her limbs, fitting perfectly on the body, like they belonged to the hovering corpse, not to her. Like she has stolen them.

She was bleeding profusely, but when she gathered the courage to look, it was a toxic shade of green. The same green that was watching her every move now. Strands of hair fell over her cheeks during her struggle to free herself, framing her pale face. She could barely keep her eyes open, feeling the intoxicating numbness of death taking over her.

The smile became more natural on the face, now full of life, but still pale. The hair was neatly combed back reaching her knees. She raised her head with the last bit of strength to look at the person in front of her. The high cheekbones and flawless skin, thin pink lips, and sharp eyes mimicked her pained expression. Or was she mimicking it? The limbs were now attached to the body, pieced together so perfectly that there was no evidence of the events prior.

“I have finally found you”, it said in a familiar voice – in her voice – pulling a long sword from her back, “Mother.”

Sephiroth jolted awake, feeling desperately her arms and legs, trying to regulate her breathing. She could breathe. Her arms were there. Her legs were there. But somehow she still felt the lingering pain of them being ripped from her body. There was a thin layer of sweat covering her naked body.

She felt a sleeping Cloud stir next to her. Sephiroth watched the blonde sleep for a few minutes still trying to recollect the memories of the dream that was slipping away from her consciousness by the second. The pair of eyes burned in her soul. Suddenly, the image of a wood manor appeared in her mind, snow covering the roof. The Shinra manor Cloud told her about. Sephiroth got up from the bed careful to not wake the blonde, dressing in her uniform. In the dead of the night, a dark figure approached the long since abandoned manor with a long sword strapped to her back.

Chapter Text

The wooden walls began to crumble, moss and vines decorating the outer walls. The bricks
lay uncovered by the gloomy paint. Sephiroth was met with a strange smell, a bitter and unwelcoming one that was meant to drive her away, but the familiarity of it, be it from the crazed dream or the underground labs that served as a home for the first years of her life, pushed her forward through the heavy doors. Still, she couldn’t find that room. There was a lot of equipment on the lower floors of the mansion, but none corresponding to the dream. At some point, she had given up on the search. She glanced at the slowly rising sun.

Since they couldn’t use phones anymore to avoid being tracked, Sephiroth should return to Cloud’s house soon, lest she worried the blonde. She tried to find her way back through the maze-like hallways, but her senses betrayed her. The sun no longer painted the world in a warm pink color, but rather a soft yellow. She entered a circular room instead of the main hallway she was looking for.

It was a spacious room with big windows and shelves full of books and files. In the middle, there was a wood table and three monitors, older models that were most likely abandoned when Shinra left. This room was on the first floor, so she could just jump out the window to get out, but she was curious about the computer in front of her. To her surprise, when she pressed the power button it began to boot up.

Cloud must have been awake by now, but certainly, she would understand. Understand exactly, she wasn’t sure. The monitors lit up, a simple Shinra logo decorating the background. Fortunately, there wasn’t a password on it, so she began venturing into the remaining documents. Some of them were plans for the mako reactors, old plans from what she could tell, maybe for the one next to the village. Sephiroth quickly got bored and switched to another folder. In this one, she found information about some failed human experiments. Specifically, the transformation one undertook after the administration of mako. From the dates she could tell it was from around the time Angeal and Genesis would have been conceived. As if verifying her suspicions, the next folder spoke about the first successful attempt at birthing an enhanced human.

The woman frowned at the screen. This report matched with the one Cloud found up to a point. At that point, the name of the mother was revealed: Genova. It wasn’t marked as the mother but as the provider of the genetic code. Sephiroth was taken aback by the discovery. It wasn’t the full report, only a bit describing the last few weeks of the pregnancy, but it left her wanting to know more because this wasn’t her friends’ data, it was hers. So she began to dig deeper, the storm in her heart only beginning to threaten the land.

Cloud was worried at first about Sephiroth’s disappearance, but she got word from Tifa at some point about a person going to the Shinra mansion in the middle of the night. She had already expressed curiosity about the building the day before, so Cloud pieced together that she must have gone to investigate.

She would have joined her in the exploration, but there was still a glaring problem in the village. They were called originally to check on the mako reactor, but that was because of an increase in the monster population. As such, the monsters dug around some pipes, damaging them or even falling into the mako pool inside the reactor. So, Cloud and Zack decided to clear out the monster dens around the area, to lend a hand to the locals.

After beating the living hell out of some fox-like monsters, the two of them decided to take a break by the old mako fountain. Tifa didn’t have time to show him around to this extent, so the black-haired man was more than happy to explore.

“Is this where you got your materia from?” He circled the small hole in the ground, looking for traces of mako. The fountain dried out in time, just as the reactor increased its energy output. To them, it was a bad omen, sent by the gods to warn them.

“My mom found it! I was very young when the fountain stopped forming material orbs, so I grew up only knowing the shards.” She pulled out the small crystal tied around her neck. “The kids here used to learn the basics of casting on crystals, but the newer generations might not get to experience this with Shinra’s exploitation…”

“Not if we stop them!”

“Yeah…” The blonde was quiet, kicking the snow that almost covered the indicator for the fountain.

They continued fighting monsters until the sun set and the valleys quieted down. When they returned to Cloud’s house Sephiroth was still nowhere to be found, neither was her mother. She checked the basement, the garden, and every possible place her mother might have gone to but she couldn’t find a trace of her. Ill thoughts started poisoning her mind as her breaths became shorter and shallower.

Zack entered the house as well leaving the animal carcasses that they have killed outside to be dealt with the next day. He found Cloud hyperventilating in the middle of the room, with her hand shaking around the hilt of a short sword.

"What’s wrong, Cloud?”

Before he could come any closer, another person entered the house.

“What’s going on?” Claudia asked, putting her cloak on the chair in the hallway.

When Cloud heard her voice, she felt the air finally penetrating through her lungs in her bloodstream. She fell to the ground, clutching at her chest. Zack was next to her in a second, rubbing her back as she began to breathe normally. Her mother rushed to her side, confused and scared at the same time, trying to calm her daughter down as well.

“I- I don’t know, I got scared- you- she’s not-“ She barely had air to spit out some words as the world spun around.

"It’s ok, Cloud, take it easy!” Zack spoke in a soothing tone. This wasn’t the first time Cloud had panic attacks when someone wasn’t where she expected them to be. It was a strange fear she picked up from an ambush mission a few weeks back, right before the war ended when the battles were at their peak. When she returned home, for a few days she was anxious every time someone was late or left without announcing. After some time the panic dissipated leaving behind only a thorn in her ribs just like the other ones left by the war and Shinra.

Zack looked at Claudia with an apology hanging off by the tip of his tongue, but the woman seemed to understand him wordlessly. He picked up the blonde, taking her to her room, where he settled her in. As much as she wanted to be there for her daughter she understood that at this moment, she wasn’t the right person to console and help her. It pained her to see her child suffer like this, but there was nothing she could do.

About fifteen minutes later, the two of them returned with Cloud holding onto Zack’s arm like an anchor. “I’m sorry ma, I didn’t mean to scare you, it just happens from time to time.”

The mother pulled her close, enveloping her in a warm embrace. Zack stood awkwardly to the side before she extended an arm to him too, embracing the both of them. She was glad that at least, even if she could not protect Cloud herself, she had found people that can help her.

“Do you want to tell me about it?”

“Not really, it’s just an old wound. Where did you go, by the way?” her voice still shook when she spoke.

“To the mansion to bring Sephiroth some food. She told me she will spend the night there to look through the archives and that she’s sorry for making you worry.”

Zack poured some tea for the three of them, stretching his sore limbs. “You worry too much, blondie, lighten up!”

“Yes, you’re right, I’m not one that should be worrying! After all, I’m not the one skinning fox monsters!”

“Aw, come on!”

Claudia looked a little confused between the two of them until Cloud explained that they made a bet about who can climb to a scorpionhawk nest the fastest, and the loser would have to skin the prey their brought home. Of course, Cloud won because she knew where to look for the nest, unlike Zack who climbed the highest, only to realize that the nest was built in a little dent in the stone wall, not on the flat surface on the top. The older woman couldn’t help but laugh at their child-like antics, but she felt relief as well. If they could laugh this wholeheartedly in the dire circumstances they were in, they would prevail eventually.

The next day, after Cloud went to visit Sephiroth in the Shinra mansion, they helped around the reactor, clearing out the road and monster nests. Sephiroth was completely entranced by the library there, barely noticing Cloud coming to bring her food. She was a little cold, but Cloud had gotten used to her demeanor by now. It was strange how a small case of insomnia caused such an obsession with lab reports. It could be explained of course by the events of the past months and the need to regain control over ones-self, by understanding her upbringing and what she has gone through. Sephiroth explained in a hurry to her about her mother and how she found documents about her.

Sephiroth wasn’t her biggest worry right now, though she skipped some meals. After all, she still needed to convince the mayor to abandon the old commercial road and destroy the bridge connecting the two sides of the mountain. By doing this, even if Shinra would come to investigate, they would be slowed down by the natural barrier created by the mountain. It would, of course, isolate the village from the main vendors that would pass through using the commercial road, but they could always send word to the neighboring villages to begin using the old routes.

Cloud and Zack were in the Lockheart basement, studying maps of the alternative roads connecting Wutai with Shinra. Now that the war was over, the border shrunk and Niebleheim was no longer a crack in the Shinra defense wall since many wutaian soldiers had used the village as an entrance point on the continent. Tifa sat sprawled on the floor, stretching her back to a degree that worried Zack, but he said nothing. Apparently, she had picked up martial arts while Cloud was gone, to protect the village from monster attacks. She was quite skilled, though she couldn’t yet compare to a SOLDIER.

“You will never convince my dad. He’s dead set on making a new treaty with Shinra for selling salt and ores. Now that Wutai lost a significant amount of money and land, they will probably terminate the contract with our mine.” Tifa got up from the floor, skimming through some documents.

While Shinra determined that a democratic system would benefit the Northern Villages, in theory, the next mayor could be anyone, but everyone knew that Tifa would follow her father in line. As such, she was taught everything about managing the affairs of the village. Tifa wasn’t inclined to leadership, so she chose to teach Cloud in secrecy all she had learned, believing that at some point she would reclaim the leader position.

"If we don't destroy the bridge, they can launch an attack on the village if they sense something amiss in our story. I don’t want to put anyone in danger!”

“They can come airborne.”

Cloud sighed, kneading her brows together. Zack began doing sit-ups while studying the layout of the city.

“Say, why does the manor have a big ass basement?”

Before the women could take a look themselves, screams broke near the vent that connects the basement with the outside. Tifa almost broke into a run, before Zack caught her hand, pulling her away from the door. Cloud signaled to the small opening behind a bookshelf, reminding Tifa of the passageway to the main gates.

Tifa modded, the three of them making their way through the darkness. They had to walk in the dark, trying to discern the situation above from the muffled screams. Their first thought was that Shinra noticed their sudden disappearance, but upon reaching the exit, they found themselves shrouded in smoke.

“Ami!” Tifa screamed, running to a small child, lying on the ground.

The people around them ran, covered in blood or burns, speeding past the burning building that would soon crash under their own weight. Blood pools flourished near almost every corner of every building. Zack and Cloud made quick work of helping the survivors reach the forest since many of the villagers were out working in the mine.

Cloud could barely breathe, carrying two small children to the group led by Tifa, while trying to avoid the falling flaming pillars. The children trembled in her arms, but she couldn’t feel it since she started trembling herself. Soon, everyone that they could account for – excluding the ones that lay lifeless on the streets – reached the outskirts of the town.

"Tifa! Where’s the mayor? And my mom?!”

Tears were streaming down Tifa’s face, as she wordlessly ran towards the reactor. Cloud wished to follow her, but her mother! Her mother was nowhere in the village! She knew that their house was too far to have caught fire, but!

It was already late in the night. The stars shone above, but the moon was missing as if it was too outraged by the carnage in the small village. The woman could barely discern the pathway through the forest, the path she has taken so many times in her life, the path to her home, but she ran as fast as the wind, biting back the cold.

“Ma!?”

Fire. The whole building was enveloped in bright flames, dancing around wildly, seeking the next place to destroy next. There was no air left for Cloud to breathe. She zoomed past the falling carbonized beams, breaking under their own weight, hoping to find her other outside, hoping that she got out in time, but in just a few seconds she realized that wasn’t the case.

Blood rushed to her limbs, pumping through her crazed body. She took a deep breath, smoke filling her lungs. The Ice materia sparked to life, wrapping around Cloud’s arms and legs. She entered the house, a wave of cold following her closely like a shield against the drowning heat. Their house was small, so it didn’t take her long to find the body of a woman, lying in what used to be the kitchen. Lifeless.

“Ma…”

Cloud fell to her knees and at the same time her feet touched the ground, ice sprouted, taming the raging flames. All that was left now was a young woman, lit by the soft light of a cure spell, desperately talking to a half-burned corpse. Asking for forgiveness, asking the corpse to wake up, to not leave her alone. Then it was just a child, pulling the body of her mother in a crushing hug, weeping on her shoulder. Her hands found a small incision in the body, a hole in her chest that reached all the way through her torso. She was familiar with this wound, this one in particular.

Masumune.

Sephiroth.

In a moment of clarity, Cloud picked up her mother’s body and dug a hole for it in their backyard. She spoke a few words in their old tongue, wishing her mother a good rest and asking her father to lead her to the afterlife. To their heaven for she was a good woman that raised her alone, and she, the ungrateful child was the reason for her premature demise. For she brought destruction to the village and her family in the form of a lover. For she tainted her mind and body with foreign blood. And she will do it again, so she begged her ancestors for guidance.

Her mind was calm, like the ocean in the eye of the storm, with only one purpose in her mind.

Kill.

Chapter Text

Hi everyone! I apologise for my inconsistent writting and uploads! I also want to thank everyone for the support and the comments and kudos and being here for these past three years<3.

Why is this a separate chapter? Well I now have a discord server and i want to find more people interested in ffvii and people interested in talking! Basically i'm looking for friends! If anyone is interested check it out: Discord Server

Chapter Text

If there was a sun in the sky, it would burn away the darkness in the land, it would dry the blood and thaw the fields. But there wasn’t. There was one thing in the sky, a cold moon that froze over the mountains, stilling the hearts of men and women alike. And yet, the coldness of the moon could not compare to the burning ice left in Cloud’s wake. Her eyes burned like the sun, seeking the plague that had destroyed her family. The calamity that she had brought upon the village. Her steps were hurried, but even, not silent as a graveyard, but constant like a clock, ticking away as the people’s time came closer to an end.

On this dreadful night, only one more person shall find their end. Only one woman will have the limbs of her clock stopped and ripped apart. Only one woman with silver hair will have the gears of her clock spread around the land, never to be assembled again.

Cloud looked up at the gray building. The foul stench of the mako and decaying bodies of monsters stung her nose and eyes but she did not let them water, for they have cried enough tears. The land has been embedded with her cries and blood, her family’s blood, her mother’s blood, and her people’s blood. This time, she will make the demon bleed and use her tears as rain to water the land and wash away its sins.

Somewhere, from inside the reactor she could make out the sounds of battle, Zack’s and Sephiroth’s voices, clashing against each other like their blades, igniting sparks in the silence of the night. But under all that, there was a hushed voice, a pitiful cry she had heard before when they fell from the bridge so many years ago.

It didn’t take long for Cloud to find her friend sprawled on the floor, holding on to Masamune.

“You… you brought her here…”, she whispered in a hushed voice.

“I did.”

“She killed my father.” There was a short pause, before she raised from her knees, cradling the blade to her chest. “I want her dead!”

“I will see to it.”

“Will you?! Tell me Cloud, will you kill your lover? Will you kill her for justice?”, Tifa screamed, tears streaming down her face.

“I will-“ the blonde pried the blonde from her bloody hands, placing a kiss on her forehead, gently, as if touching a trembling deer”-for revenge.”

She took Masamune by the handle, weighing it before adjusting her grip. It was longer than the standard longswords and longer than any other katana she had ever seen. At the same time, it was lighter than the Buster Sword, but not by much.

“Then, may the gods give you strength to protect your people, Chief Strife!”

Tifa fled for the exit, while Cloud continued her march down the metal halls. The sounds of battle accompanied her, nudging her in the right direction at times, while the sour scent was embedded in her skin and bones. Images flashed before her eyes, of similar walls from a different building. Of walls that watched her die as a human and be reborn as a Soldier. Walls that kept her silent to the world, while Hojo tinkered with her body. Walls that probably watched Sephiroth grow. Walls that will watch her perish.

The sounds of the battle finally stopped, and it was at this time that Cloud’s heart quivered for a second time that night. She barely uttered the name of her friend, when she heard a body crash on the metal stairs in the room down the hall. In an instant, she entered a large room, with a tall ceiling and a pool of mako. There were numerous pods containing distorted faces and intertwining limbs of what used to be people. Cloud could have been there, in one of the pods, but she did not have time to dwell on those thoughts, as Zack bleed on the floor, grunting and trying to sit up again.

“Cloud! Listen- you have to- Aghh!” he groaned when he felt the burn from a Fire, licking at a wound in his chest.

“It wouldn’t kill her to keep a fucking heal materia in the sword!”, Cloud cursed, stopping the bleeding from an ugly wound in his abdomen.

“Cloud, you have to go stop her!” He tried to pry her hands away, but he was too weak. There were so many wounds littering his body, painting his sun-kissed skin dark red.

“CLOUD!”

“I WON'T LET YOU DIE!”

Zack pulled the blonde by the collar, meeting her bloodshot eyes. “WE ALL DIE IF YOU DON’T STOP HER! GO!”, he screamed, pushing the Buster Sword into her arms. Cloud took another look at his broken body, placing a kiss on his forehead.

“Go with Tifa. Keep the villagers safe and apologize to Gen and Ange for us.” She smiled, pulling back.

“We’ll protect them together, I’m not leaving you alone!”

“I’m not alone.”

The beeping of the machines tracking the mako reactor drowned out the harsh breaths of the man and the unsure steps of the woman. Cloud climbed the steep steps, eyes trained on the silver silhouette at the end of the metal bridge. She took a deep breath, rushing forward, the tip of the greatsword penetrating Sephiroth’s body silently. The movement was decisive, not a thread of waver in her action, the blade penetrating the tank in front of them. Tears began to fall from Clooud’s eyes, but her voice kept steady as she asked:

“Why?”

Sephiroth remained frozen in place for a few seconds, which the blonde assumed wrongly to be due to the pain. Her grip on the sword lessened allowing Sephiroth to push the sword out of her abdomen. Blood drowned the floor, but she didn’t seem fazed by it, being more worried about the body in the tank.

“How dare you hurt Mother?!”, Sephiroth screamed, pushing open the leaking tank. “Do not mind her, mother, she is young, she doesn’t understand you yet!’’

The woman continued to apologize profusely, ignoring the river spewing from her abdomen, the blood mixing with the mako from the tank. Cloud was taken aback by the display, as the crazed general continued to rip through the numerous tubes coming out of the limbless body if it could be called a body at all. The face was half caved in, but it retained a sense of sinister beauty the same… the same that Cloud would wake up to next to her in bed. Silver hair stuck on the back of the body, similar to Sephiroth’s.

“What is that?” Cloud had retreated a few steps away from her lover, watching in horror as she cradled the corpse to her chest, whispering in its ear. The blonde raised the sword once more, feeling the unusual weight of Masumune strapped on her back pulling her towards Sephiroth.

“My mother. Our mother! Come here, Cloud, let me introduce you, she is pleased to see you.”,
she smiled, her lips stretching a tad too much and her cheeks elevating, but her eyes remained still.

“You’re insane…” Cloud barely refrained from gagging as the wound opened more and more, her guts slowly falling to the floor, but nothing changed in Sephiroth's stance. Only her gaze finally fully registered their situation, with the sword pointing at her.

“No. I am happy. I finally taste happiness and you are here to take it away from me. I hoped you would understand, that you would love our mother as much as she loves us!” She took a step toward the blonde, holding the body with one arm and the other cupping the emerging intestines and tucking them in the abdominal cavity, only for them to spill out again along with the little food they happened to be digesting at the time.

“Mother? YOU KILLED MY MOM! THE MAYOR! YOU SET THE VILLAGE ON FIRE!”

“Insignificant humans. Our true mother is right here, but you are too blind to see it! Mother, Genova… they will never break us apart again.”

In a flash, Sephiroth reclaimed Masamune, and before Cloud could parry the incoming blow, its long blade penetrated her chest. She screamed. She screamed in pain, she screamed at Sephiroth pleading for an answer, crying in agony and anger, but she was met with an impassive gaze.

“WHY DID YOU DO ALL THIS? ANSWER ME DAMN IT!”

“Your little human brain could never understand my mission.” The general raised the sword with Cloud still stuck on it, raising her from the ground. She shrieked in pain as she slid lower on the blade, cutting deeper through her.

She walked to the end of the platform, a gentle smile ghosting her pale face. Amidst the pain and thousand memories flooding her mind, of their first encounter in the tower hallways, their first kiss at the Halloween party, and their first night together, Cloud found herself begging Sephiroth to come back to her, begging the gods to give her love back. There were just a few steps left and Cloud could feel her strength slipping away. ‘Did I fall in love with a monster?’

“I love you…”, she whispered weakly, searching her lover’s face for something. In that instant, as if the gods heard her plea, a tear rolled down Sephiroth’s cheek.

The eyes are a window to the soul, it is said. And while her voice was cold, while her hands were ruthless and her mouth spits poison, her eyes remained hollow, grieving. Asking for forgiveness.

Some would say that the mind was weak in its final moments, that it was Cloud’s imagination playing tricks on her to give her a sliver of peace in death, but for a second she recognized that the woman in front of her was not Sephiroth. That, while the actions are done by her body, they might not match the heart. With that thought alone, Cloud found new strength to grasp the cold blade of Masamune, reaching through the metal for a connection with the Wind materia embedded in its hilt.

The materia glowed, a gust of wind pushing Sephiroth from the side, making her lower the katana just enough so the blonde could regain her footing. She didn’t waste a second, ripping the cold metal from her chest. It hurts. It hurts. But she would be damned if she didn’t take it all out before Sephiroth could retaliate.

Maybe the loss of blood and internal organs finally slowed her down, maybe the true Sephiroth, the one that Cloud hoped existed, was fighting back at whatever was controlling her. She grits her teeth, hauling the Silver Demon of Shinra into the mako pool below. Sephiroth didn’t scream while she fell, only hugging tighter the body until her back met the surface of the reactor.

At that moment, Cloud debated jumping after Sephiroth. ‘An eye for an eye’, as the town’s folk would say. The debt was paid. The killer was murdered in return. And yet, Cloud Strife felt empty, like the ground she was walking on turned on air. She barely registered walking to the place she left Zack some time ago. He was still sprawled on the floor, pale, fighting for every breath.

"I did it...", she said, before collapsing next to him, tears streaming down her face just as blood was pouring from her chest.

The world was cruel. If there was truly a god out there, he must not be merciful. Why? Because in the last moments of consciousness, Cloud prayed for an easy road to the afterlife for her, her lover, her mother, and the people that died that night. She prayed for her best friend, her brother, to have a good life with his lovers. She prayed for her unborn child to forgive her.

‘When the war of the beasts brings about the world's end
The goddess descends from the sky
Wings of light and dark spread afar
She guides us to bliss, her gift everlasting’

She prayed, but the gods ignored her because instead of letting her rest they gave her the curse of life.

Hojo paced around the room, reading the different lab reports neatly stacked on his desk. He decided to move his main laboratory to Nibleheim to ensure proper treatment for his new subjects. It was such a shame that his favorite had to succumb to a human flaw. He sighed, resigning to watch the constant breaths of the two humans in the tanks. Experiment C and Experiment Z read on the two metal plates under the glass wall.

Genesis was dealing with some paperwork when Angeal burst into his office. It wasn’t nearly half as nice as his old one from the tower, but at least in Wutai, he had more freedom. Even the spies that were tasked with surveillance over the newly joined soldiers were less noisy than the Turks.

"What's going on?" He got up from the chair, while Angeal fumbled with the remote, switching the channel to a news anchor from Shinra.

'Breaking news: First Class Soldiers, General Sephiroth Crescent, Lieutenant Zack Fair, and Third Class Soldier Cloud Strife died in an accident in the Nibleheim mako reactor. Reports say that an explosion in the main engine chamber cause the three to die instantly, and a toxic fire spread to the neighboring village. We advise-‘

Genesis was on his knees and Angeal followed suit, shaking, gasping for air. This wasn’t happening. It wasn’t real.

“THEY CAN’T BE- ANGE! HE- HE ISN’T-“

He screamed and Angeal held him. He wailed and cursed and Angeal continued to hold him tightly, tears drowning his voice as well. The carpet under them burned, Genesis began to burn. His skin was hot as magma, but Angeal didn’t let go for one second, because if he let go, he would lose the only family he had left.

At some point, Genesis fainted from overheating, too weak to mourn anymore. Angeal kissed his forehead, casting a curaga on both of them for the burns. If there was a god, he was cruel. Because this god granted Angeal only with death, and he will gift it back to the world.