Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Cloud really shouldn’t have gone. Should have let consequences finally bite Rufus Shinra in the ass after all these years, but despite his best attempts to appear as a cold, uncaring asshole, his heart was soft to those who asked him for help and Rufus had asked him for help. A lot of help, with a lot of begging on Reno’s part, and that had to be the explanation as to why he was even bothering with this. Looking around at the rubble before him, he sighed.

Going out into the middle of nowhere Wutai to check on an abandoned lab Shinra had set up during the war wasn’t what he had planned on doing today, but Rufus had insisted they were getting really large readings of spilled mako in this location and well, who else was stupid enough to listen to him?

“Shall we begin?” Vincent asked, not looking at him.

“Let’s get this over with. Maybe we can get back before dinner.” Cloud replied.

Vincent nodded as the two of them started to shuffle their way inside. The collapsed lab was too dangerous for most people to explore, but Cloud and Vincent weren’t most people and this was just another Tuesday for them because they could handle just about anything they found. But Cloud would admit, the area was very dark, even with his enhanced vision.

“Watch.” Vincent called, pointing to a low beam.

Cloud ducked his head, causing his spikes to gently brush against it.

“Thanks.” he replied.

Vincent just hummed in acknowledgement and that’s why Cloud liked hanging out with Vincent. They didn’t have to talk, they could just exist in the same area and still get shit done. As much as he loved his friends, sometimes they wanted to fill the silence (Yuffie) and insisted on talking the entire time (Yuffie) when Cloud would prefer not to or needed to focus (Yuffie).

“This place…” Cloud shook his head as his eyes landed on a row of broken containment tubes.

“It must have been one of Hollander’s.” Vincent stated.

“What makes you say that?” Cloud asked, eyebrow raised.

Vincent pointed to a dartboard that was still somehow hanging up. On the board was a picture of Hojo with a dart through his forehead.

“Oh.” Cloud muttered as Vincent shot him an amused look.

They kept going, deeper and deeper into the broken down lab when they heard dripping. They glanced at each other before following the sound. What they found made Cloud hiss.

“That mako pool is huge.” Cloud muttered, leaning over the edge to look down the hole at the large pool of mako, apparently leaking from a nearby storage area.

“This is worse than Rufus said.” Vincent stated, arms crossed.

“Shocker. Rufus lied.” Cloud replied with boredom.

“Whether he lied or had bad information to start with, that is not our concern. We need to make note of this and see what we can do to fix it.” Vincent stated easily.

“Right.” Cloud sighed.

The smell of mako was heavy and Cloud was starting to get a headache. He reached up to rub his forehead, which Vincent noticed and immediately decided it was time to head back.

“Well, now we know for sure this place is the cause of all those mutated creatures. Let us leave and we will let the Turks know. We can regroup and figure out next steps from there.” Vincent stated.

“Good idea. Let’s get out of here.” Cloud replied.

Vincent nodded and started heading back the way they came. As Cloud turned, he faintly heard something crack under his foot and then the floor gave away. Cloud yelped, making Vincent turn quickly.

“CLOUD!” Vincent yelled, reaching for him as Cloud fell backwards.

Cloud, without thinking, grabbed him and dragged him down too. Vincent tried to grab something to stop their fall, but there was nothing to grab. The floor continued to crumble under them and so, the two of them tumbled into the pool below with a splash. The surface rippled and then stilled.

—sSs—

Cloud gasped as he burst out of the pool. Startled, panicked and completely disorientated, Cloud stumbled out of the pool and tried to figure out what happened to him. When he did so, he heard people yelling around him. Coughing and hacking, unable to focus on what was going on, Cloud was startled when people started to grab him.

“NO! STOP! LET GO!” Cloud screamed, struggling to escape.

The more he fought, the more hands tried to grab him. He felt his sword being removed from his back and panicked even more. His footing slipped and his knees hit the ground. This allowed the group to surround him.

“NO! NONONONO!” Cloud yelled, thrashing violently.

“Knock him out, you fools!” a horribly familiar voice yelled.

Cloud stopped, his head snapping up to see Hojo standing above him. Cloud’s shock and fear allowed the group around him to overwhelm him. Cloud found himself pinned to the floor, struggling weakly as Hojo moved towards him, a large needle in hand and a nasty grin on his face.

“I don’t know how you got in here, but today is truly my lucky day.” Hojo said cruelly before Cloud’s head was jerked to the side and Hojo stabbed him in the neck with the needle.

Cloud gasped as the liquid in the needle disappeared into his body before Cloud could feel himself going numb.

“Now… let’s see what makes you tick.” was the last line Cloud heard before the world went back.

—sSs—

Aerith looked up from where she was tending to her flowers. Her eyes stared at the sky above her before she stood up and dusted off her dress.

“Something has happened. Something has changed.” Aerith said softly.

Shaking her head, she grabbed her basket and headed for the front doors. She would need to keep her eyes open. Everything was about to change.

—sSs—

Zack Fair’s shoulder slammed into the door before it finally burst open and he stumbled inside, somehow managing to keep on his feet before chuckling.

“Whoa! Haha! Told you I could do it!” Zack said, rubbing his shoulder before shooting a grin behind him.

“That you did. However, I thought we agreed not to do that because we didn’t want you to harm yourself, puppy.” Genesis Rhapsodos stated as he stepped inside.

“I’m fine! I told you before, I’m like a brick wall! Indestructible!” Zack said before banging his fist on his chest, only to groan.

“Even walls can be destroyed, darling. You just proved that yourself.” Genesis replied with a smirk.

“Yeah well, we got inside. So what are we looking for again?” Zack asked, looking around.

The room was really dark and even with the light from the doorway, Zack could barely make anything out. He hoped there were no monsters in here.

“You didn’t read the report, did you?” Angeal Hewley asked as he stepped inside next.

Zack chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of his neck.

“Ummm no? But it’s because I knew you guys would! So… what are we looking for?” Zack asked.

“Anything.” Sephiroth’s voice said as he also entered the room.

“That’s… broad.” Zack mumbled.

“It’s because Shinra doesn’t know what to expect. Shinra is mostly interested in what Professor Hojo was working on under their noses with their funds without their permission. Any experiments or testing that doesn’t seem to be on the up and up.” Angeal explained as Genesis started to walk deeper into the room.

“So anything morally or ethically illegal.” Genesis added.

“Well, we found all those documents and stuff. Isn’t that enough?” Zack said, looking at the files Sephiroth was carrying.

“This is fine, but we need to make sure we don’t leave anything behind. So turn this entire room upside down. Leave nothing alone.” Sephiroth replied shortly as he followed Genesis.

Zack frowned, looking at Sephiroth in concern before Angeal placed a hand on his shoulder. Zack turned to him, worriedly.

“Is he ok?” Zack whispered.

Angeal gave him a sad smile.

“He is… trying. Just give him some grace, ok?” Angeal asked.

“Right, got it.” Zack nodded.

Angeal patted him on the shoulder before he followed the other two with Zack bringing up the rear. The room, which was actually a lab, was huge and they soon spread out.

“I have a desk over here.” Sephiroth called.

“Anything inside?” Angeal asked as he found a filing cabinet.

“Locked.” Sephiroth replied.

There was some rattling and then the sound of something breaking.

“Not anymore.” Sephiroth stated before the sound of papers shuffling were heard.

“Has anyone found a light switch yet? It’s dark as hell in here and I can’t see anything.” Zack called.

“I think so, but nothing is happening.” Angeal replied, finding a switch next to the filing cabinet.

Zack could hear the sound of a switch clicking, but no light came on, confirming Angeal’s suspicions.

“The power must be going somewhere else.” Sephiroth stated.

“Great. Just be careful then.” Zack muttered.

“As if you have to say that to anyone else.” Angeal teased.

“Hey!” Zack yelled.

Genesis had made it to the very back of the lab and eyed a large, covered item in the shadows before noticing a faint green light coming from underneath. He had a bad feeling about this, but also knew he had to see what was hidden. He moved closer.

“We should have grabbed the lantern from the helicopter.” Angeal sighed, squinting to try and read the files he had found in the cabinet, but was unable to.

“I think I still have a glow stick in one of my pockets? Hold on, let me check.” Zack stated, patting down his pockets.

“A glow stick?” Sephiroth asked, looking up in confusion.

Genesis walked over and reached for the cloth before peeking under it. His breath hitched.

“AHA! Found it!” Zack pulled a glow stick from his pocket and held it up.

Zack snapped it and proudly held it up when it lit up. The glow stick was barely glowing, but Angeal sighed and took it from him. 

“Thank you, Zack.” Angeal said fondly.

“No problem! Happy to help!” Zack said proudly.

Genesis stared in horror before he finally found his voice.

“Gentlemen… I fear we have a problem.” he said quietly.

Zack and Angeal were too busy talking to hear him, but Sephiroth did, if not barely.

“Did you say something, Genesis?” Sephiroth called, making Angeal and Zack pause to turn his way.

“I said I think we have a problem.” Genesis said louder without looking at them.

“A problem? What kind?” Sephiroth asked urgently, moving around the desk to get closer.

Genesis swallowed hard before he pulled the cloth off.

“I think I know where all the power went.” Genesis said as the tank was revealed.

There was silence before Zack spoke.

“Oh my god.” Zack whispered in horror.

“No… it… it can’t be… right?” Angeal asked, voice shaking.

The three men moved closer, staring at the tank before them. Over the tank was a single letter on a plaque, “C”. 

“What the hell was he doing?” Genesis asked.

“Something monstrous.” Sephiroth replied.

Floating inside the tank was a young man. He was naked with only a mask covering his nose and mouth. His hair floated around his head. The green glow was the mako he was floating in.

“W-We have to get him out!” Zack said, his voice panicked as he moved towards the tank.

Zack’s panic seemed to snap Angeal out of his own shock. He quickly grabbed the younger man to keep him from doing something that could possibly end badly.

“Zack, wait. We can’t.” Angeal said quickly.

“What! Why!” Zack demanded.

“Angeal is right, Zack. We need to… drain it first.” Sephiroth said, coming out of his own shock.

Angeal grabbed Sephiroth’s arm.

“Sephiroth, we need to call the Turks.” Angeal said urgently.

“The Turks! Angeal, they will take too long to get here!” Genesis argued.

“Even still, this is a Turk investigation. If we mess this up, we could ruin the case they are building against Hojo.” Angeal insisted.

“There is a man trapped in mako, Angeal! Who cares about their investigation!” Genesis yelled, pointing.

As Genesis and Angeal started to argue, Zack shuffled to stand next to Sephiroth and take his trembling hand in Zack’s own. Both of them were unsure of what was going on, but didn’t want to get involved either. None of them noticed his eyes opening.

—sSs—

Cloud didn’t know where he was. All he knew was that it was quiet and dark and that it had been quiet and dark for a very long time. But suddenly, it wasn’t quiet anymore. It wasn’t quite loud either, but something was happening and that forced Cloud to the waking world against his will.

The first thing he saw was green. All green. Just green and that made his heart start to race. The second thing he noticed was he was floating. Floating in mako. Floating in a tank full of mako and he had no idea how long he had been floating here for.

Panic soon consumed him and he reached out to press his hands against the glass before him. He pressed as hard as he could, trying to get out. He had to get out. HE HAD TO GET OUT! Cloud began to bang his hands against the glass, trying to get it to break, but nothing happened. Eventually, Cloud pulled his hand back and balled it into a fist before punching it through the glass.

—sSs—

The argument was getting louder. Angeal and Genesis were furiously debating with each other, trying to prove their idea was the best one. It was so loud Zack almost missed the banging. His eyes turned to the tank again and he gasped.

“WAIT! DON’T!” Zack yelled.

That caused Sephiroth, Genesis and Angeal to turn to him before looking up. Just in time to see the young man inside the glass punch right through it. The entire tank shattered and the mako spilled out immediately, knocking the four men over and sending them sliding away from the tank. Zack immediately rolled over and looked up, just in time to see the young man fall out of the tank and hit the floor with a solid thud.

“Shit!” Zack tried to get to his feet, but kept slipping and sliding in the mako on the floor.

“Zack!” Angeal yelled.

“He punched through the GLASS?! Is that even possible!” Genesis demanded, sitting up.

“It doesn’t matter.” Sephiroth replied as he slowly got up into a kneeling position.

The young man slowly got up into a kneeling position before reaching up and ripping the mask off, gasping loudly.

“Whoa, hey! Don’t move!” Zack held out a hand, but slipped and fell over again.

The young man slowly got to his feet and they could see he had blonde-ish hair and familiar SOLDIER eyes. He stumbled a bit, looking around wildly before his eyes landed on Sephiroth. Confusion turned to absolute panic as the young man stumbled back and slammed against the wall.

“Not you! Anyone but you!” he yelled, staring at Sephiroth.

Zack, Genesis and Angeal all turned to Sephiroth, who looked baffled.

“Do you know him?” Genesis asked.

“No.” Sephiroth replied, shaking his head.

Zack slowly got to his feet and held out his hands. The young man turned his attention to Zack and their eyes locked. Zack swallowed before giving him, what he hoped, was a comforting smile.

“Hey, easy now, ok? There’s no reason to be upset. We aren’t going to hurt you.” Zack said gently.

The man didn’t seem to know what to do. He just pressed himself against the wall before he spoke.

“Where am I?” he whispered, voice shaking.

Genesis, Angeal and Sephiroth all shared a look, but Zack spoke first.

“You’re in a lab run by a guy named Hojo.” Zack said.

At Hojo’s name, the young man’s breathing started to quicken, becoming even more panicked as his eyes began to dart around the room. His whole body seemed to be shaking violently.

“H-Hey! Easy! Easy! It’s ok! He can’t hurt you anymore! He’s not even here!” Zack said, trying to calm him down.

Instead, the man shook his head before his eyes landed on Sephiroth again.

“Hojo isn’t here, but HE is!” the man spat.

Sephiroth blinked rapidly, not sure what he had done to be hated so much. Angeal and Genesis had finally managed to get to their feet and Angeal had sent an emergency text to Reno, who should be waiting for them outside (if he hadn’t wandered off in boredom).

“No one wants to hurt you. We want to help you, even Sephiroth. Will you let us help you?” Angeal asked.

“At least let us get you some clothes, Mister…?” Genesis trailed off, waiting to see if he would give a name.

The man’s eyes turned to Genesis and he stared before he spoke, though he seemed uncertain.

“Cloud… I think… my name is Cloud?” the newly named Cloud muttered.

“Nice to meet you, Cloud. I’m Zack. That’s Angeal, Genesis and, well I guess you already know Sephiroth.” Zack winced.

Cloud stared at Zack, lower lip trembling before he shook his head.

“I-I don’t know Sephiroth. I just… I just know he’s evil.” Cloud whispered.

Sephiroth actually seemed taken aback and a bit hurt.

“Is that something Hojo told you?” Genesis demanded.

Cloud shook his head slowly, as if he wasn’t sure. 

“I… no, he didn’t… I don’t think? I just know.” Cloud insisted.

“I think the mako poisoning is confusing you. Sephiroth is a good man.” Angeal stated.

Cloud started to shake his head more violently, but it seemed that he was done talking. Cloud bolted, heading for the open door. Zack yelped and tried to grab him, but he slipped right past Zack. Genesis and Angeal both tried to grab for him as well, but he managed to dart out of the way of their attempts too. Sephiroth was too far away to even try, so Cloud got to the door and ran right out.

“Oh fuck!” Zack slipped and slid trying to get his feet underneath him before he managed to get stable and started after Cloud.

“Zack, don’t let him get away!” Angeal yelled as all three men tried to get up and follow him.

Zack got to the hallway and saw Cloud rushing down the hall. He was pretty fast for a guy who had just woken up, but Zack was right on his trail. Zack wasn’t going to let him escape. As they ran, Cloud clearly had no idea where he was going, which worked out in Zack’s favor. Cloud took a sudden right, but Zack took a turn right before that, knowing it would loop around and allow Zack to cut him off.

Zack narrowed his eyes and pushed himself to his absolute top speed when he saw Cloud appear from around the corner. Zack launched himself at the other man and tackled him. The two of them hit the floor before Cloud attempted to throw Zack off him. They rolled around as Zack tried to get him under control and Cloud tried to wiggle his way out. Zack was startled by how strong Cloud was. He easily had First Class level strength. Zack was struggling and he was going to lose if he didn’t get some help.

“Yo, where the fuck are you guys?” Reno’s voice yelled, his footsteps coming down the hallway.

“RENO! HELP!” Zack yelled.

Reno’s footsteps quickened and he came around another corner in confusion. He took in the scene for a moment before moving closer.

“Yo, what is going on here? Who the fuck is this?” Reno demanded.

“QUESTIONS LATER! HELP NOW!” Zack snapped.

He managed to get Cloud in a bear hug and pull him up. Reno raised an eyebrow at the sight of Cloud’s nakedness, but pulled out his rod and promptly wacked Cloud in the head with it. Cloud was knocked out immediately and slumped in Zack’s arms. Zack blinked, but accepted it for what it was and sat back against the wall.

“Whew. Thanks.” Zack muttered.

“No problem, but who the fuck is this? And… why is he naked?” Reno asked, pointing with his rod.

Before Zack could answer, they heard Angeal calling.

“Zack!” Angeal’s voice yelled.

“Over here!” Zack yelled back as he adjusted Cloud in his arms to hold him and cover him ever so slightly, giving the guy a little bit of decency.

Angeal, Sephiroth and Genesis came around the corner, looking a little ruffled and out of breath. Reno snorted when he saw them.

“The fuck happened to you all? You look like shit.” Reno mocked.

“Shut it, Reno.” Genesis snapped, knowing that his coat was ruined by the mako from the tank and was absolutely furious about it.

Angeal knelt by Zack’s side and frowned as he looked at the young man Zack was holding.

“He’s thin. Clearly malnourished and possibly dehydrated.” Angeal muttered.

“He was in Hojo’s tender love and care. We all know he doesn’t treat his toys very well…” Genesis said before pausing and looking at Sephiroth sheepishly.

“No offense.” Genesis said quickly.

“None taken. You are not wrong” Sephiroth replied.

“Whoa, wait. He’s an experiment?” Reno demanded, pointing.

“He was in a mako tank in a hidden Hojo lab. I think that’s pretty obvious, Reno.” Genesis said coolly.

“Oh shit… You do realize I am going to have to report that in, right?” Reno asked, seriously.

“Good. In fact, we want you to call it in. He needs medical attention, stat.” Sephiroth replied sharply.

Reno raised an eyebrow, but pulled his PHS out.

“Alright, I’ll call Tseng now. They are probably going to want this place locked down.” Reno said.

“That’s fine. We will step outside and start coordinating our way back to HQ.” Angeal stated.

“Umm?” Zack said.

All of them turned to him.

“Can we get him some clothes? I mean, we are in the mountains. It’s cold outside and he’s shaking already.” Zack asked, adjusting his grip to hold Cloud closer and try to provide some warmth.

“Right… Clothes… ummm?” Angeal looked at Reno, who blinked.

“Don’t look at me! I don’t have any. I haven't had a chance to restock since the last time SOMEONE threw up in the helicopter!” Reno pointedly looked at Zack, who chuckled sheepishly.

“Sorry.” Zack mumbled while Reno just huffed.

“Here.” Sephiroth pulled off his jacket and handed it to Zack, who nodded in thanks.

“Alright, there we go.” Zack wrapped Cloud in the jacket, who stopped shivering and seemed to settle down.

“What a day, yo.” Reno muttered before he turned and walked off, PHS already to his ear.

“Hey! Boss! We have a problem.”

Chapter Text

Tseng exited the helicopter before the blades even stopped turning, Elena right behind him.

“Report.” Tseng demanded as Reno looked up.

“Well, we can say for sure that the information we got was solid. The Firsts found a hidden lab.” Reno stated.

“A hidden lab?” Tseng demanded.

“Yeah and a hidden experiment.” Reno said.

Tseng’s brow furrowed while Elena raised an eyebrow.

“What kind of experiment?” Tseng demanded.

“A human one.” Reno replied.

“Wait, I thought we found all those labs though?” Elena asked, alarmed.

“Then you tell me who that is.” Reno pointed to where Zack was sitting with Cloud still in his arms, though all they could see from their angle was blonde spiky hair.

Tseng frowned, but walked over to get a better look. Zack glanced up and smiled, though it was nervous.

“Tseng! Hey! I was expecting the other guy.” Zack said.

“Zack. I understand you found a hidden lab?” Tseng said, cutting right to the chase.

“Oh yeah. And him…” Zack shifted the bundle in his arms, revealing a face.

Tseng looked down and then sucked in a sharp breath.

“He was in the lab?” Tseng demanded sharply.

“Umm yeah? In a mako tank… Tseng, are you ok?” Zack asked, worriedly.

Tseng swallowed hard before turning on his heel.

“Please excuse me.” Tseng replied.

“Eh! Tseng!” Zack called, but Tseng ignored him.

He walked back over to where Elena and Reno were standing, both looking alarmed at the sight of his face.

“Boss?” Reno asked, voice shaking.

“Are you alright?” Elena asked worriedly.

“Do you know who that is?” Tseng demanded instead, staring at Reno.

Reno blinked rapidly.

“Um no?” Reno replied.

Tseng sighed as he pulled out his PHS. He pulled up a file and showed them both a picture. Both Elena and Reno’s eyes got wide.

“Wait! There’s no way!” Reno hissed.

“I-Is that possible? He’s supposed to be dead!” Elena whispered sharply.

Tseng shook his head.

“I do not know. But this whole situation just got even worse.” Tseng stated.

Reno ran a hand through his hair roughly.

“What do we do? Do we call the Big Boss?” Elena asked.

Tseng frowned.

“He’s off the grid for right now. I will send him a message, but I don’t expect him to reply any time soon.” Tseng admitted.

“So… what do we do?” Reno asked.

Tseng closed his eyes, recentered himself and let out a breath before straightening his spine.

“We will do our job. We need to shut this location down and comb the whole building for anything else. Get the SOLDIERs out of here and keep this to yourselves. Not a word to anyone, understood?” Tseng demanded.

“You got it.” they replied.

“Good. Now, let’s go.” Tseng turned and walked back over to where Zack was.

Zack was staring at him, uncertain as Tseng knelt down.

“My apologies, my PHS went off and I needed to check with the other Turks. Now, explain how this came to be?” Tseng asked, trying not to look down again.

“Uh sure. So we were going through the building like we were told when Angeal noticed a wall that was a different color than the rest. I broke it down with my shoulder and we found a lab… with a mako tank.” Zack said, adjusting his grip on the young man in his arms.

“I see. Was there anything else?” Tseng asked.

“Well, Sephiroth found a desk and Angeal was going through a filing cabinet, but I don’t think they got very far.” Zack said, looking over where the Firsts were standing.

They had been busy gathering their stuff and packing the helicopter to leave while Zack had been taking care of Cloud (or at least staying out of the way). Sephiroth, as if sensing Tseng’s stare, turned his head and nodded.

“I see. Let me speak with them then.” Tseng stood up, but before he could walk away, Zack spoke.

“Hey, Tseng, you got any clothes in your helicopter? He’s umm kind of naked under this coat.” Zack said.

Tseng hummed.

“Reno did request clothes, I will have Elena bring them over.” Tseng said, turning to Elena and nodding.

Elena gave a thumbs up and rushed back to their helicopter for a bag.

“Oh, thanks!” Zack said with relief as Tseng moved away.

Tseng moved towards the Firsts, all of whom turned to look at him.

“Tseng.” Sephiroth nodded in respect.

“Generals.” Tseng replied.

“Not how you expected your day to go, hm?” Genesis asked, arms crossed.

“I believe I could say the same for you.” Tseng stated.

“Certainly not what we expected when we were told to just go check out an abandoned uniform station, but Hojo has shown to be more evasive than even I expected.” Sephiroth replied.

Tseng looked around the group and then nodded.

“That man never ceases to amaze me with how much he has hidden, but that is a concern for later. You will have a medical team waiting for you at HQ when you return. Zack said you found a desk and filing cabinet?” Tseng stated.

“Yes, in the same room as the tank. I am not sure if any of the documents were harmed when the tank broke.” Angeal explained.

“I see. Very well, we will handle it from here.” Tseng said.

“Thank you. We will leave it to you then.” Angeal nodded.

Angeal turned to where Zack was sitting, who was talking to Elena.

“Zack! We are leaving!” Angeal called.

Zack’s head snapped up and he nodded before he stood up and grabbed the bag from Elena with a smile before he walked over.

“Sounds good to me! Elena gave me some clothes, so we can dress Cloud in the helicopter.” Zack stated.

Tseng’s eyes narrowed.

“Did he give you that name or?” Tseng asked.

Zack blinked.

“I mean he said it was his name, but didn’t seem sure…?” Zack looked at Angeal, uncertain.

“When you go into the lab, you will see the tank is called “Subject C”. That is where we found him.” Angeal explained.

“I see. Thank you. I hope you have a safe trip.” Tseng said.

Tseng watched as the Firsts entered the helicopter before it took off. When it was gone, Tseng sighed and turned to the building before him.

“Let’s go.” Tseng said.

“Yes Boss.” the two replied.

Entering the building, Tseng eyed the ceiling and floors, but Zack was right. The only place that looked different was the off white wall that now had a huge hole in it. As they peeked inside, the smell of mako was thick.

“Ew.” Reno muttered, looking around the room from outside the door.

“The smell of mako is heavy. Everyone put your masks on.” Tseng demanded before putting his on.

Reno huffed and put his on while Elena struggled with her’s. Eventually, all three were suited up and walked inside the room with Reno carrying a large lantern to give them light. The place was a mess and there was still mako all over the floor. The desk’s drawers were open and papers were clearly moved. But all three of them focused on the tank in the back.

“That’s an old one.” Reno muttered.

“It is an older style from what we use now, but that doesn’t give us a timeline. Just tells us this lab has been around a long time. Start with the desk and cabinet. I’ll look over the tank.” Tseng ordered.

“Yes Boss.” the two said before Reno put the lantern on the floor.

Reno headed for the cabinet while Elena reached for the desk. For a while, they searched in silence, each focusing on their work before Elena gasped.

“Hey Boss? I think I got something.” Elena held up a file.

Across the front, it said “Subject C”. Tseng nodded.

“Good, put that to the side. Keep looking.” Tseng said.

“Right, but ummm?” Elena put that down and pulled out another one, also labelled “Subject C” and then a third.

“How many are there?” Tseng demanded.

“Well, they fill up the whole drawer.” Elena stated, hands on her hips.

“Yeahhhh it’s not just that drawer.” Reno said.

“The filing cabinet too?” Tseng asked.

“Eeyup! Top two drawers are all about Subject C. The rest contain all random projects we already knew about.” Reno replied.

Tseng stared at the two of them before looking at the tank.

“What were you doing?” he muttered.

—sSs—

“Well, that could have gone worse.” Genesis grumbled as he settled into his seat.

“I honestly don’t think it could have.” Sephiroth said, sitting next to him.

“Well, we could have found more than one hidden lab.” Genesis replied mockingly.

Sephiroth shot him a bored look as Angeal and Zack dressed Cloud in the sweatpants and tshirt Elena had given them.

“Did Tseng seem a little… off to you guys?” Zack asked as he handed Sephiroth his jacket back.

Sephiroth took it with a nod and folded it onto his lap.

“Turks are just strange.” Genesis replied, shrugging.

“I mean, yeah, but Tseng seemed almost… worried.” Zack said as he sat back down with Cloud on his lap.

He didn’t know why, but he wanted to keep the younger man close until they could get him to medical. Zack felt rather protective over him, especially after seeing how scared he had been when he woke up. Zack remembered the last time he had undergone SOLDIER enhancement and how disorientated he had been when he woke up. Thankfully, Angeal had been there to comfort him, but he could only imagine the terror of waking up, naked, with a bunch of strangers around. No wonder he ran.

“He did seem… off.” Angeal finally agreed, arms crossed.

“Turks are not easily rattled, especially Tseng. Something about this whole situation must have upset him.” Sephiroth muttered.

“Maybe this threw a wrench into their case?” Angeal asked.

“Well, it is out of our wheelhouse now. Let us focus on our new little bird.” Genesis replied.

“Little bird?” Sephiroth asked, all three of them looking at him in confusion.

Genesis reached over and lightly pulled on a spike.

“Look at his hair. Like a little chocobo chick. Plus his speed in which he ran away from us. Hence, little bird.” Genesis said, pulling his hand back and looking smug.

All three men stared at the golden locks, now somewhat dry and starting to stick up.

“You know.” Angeal said thoughtfully.

“He’s not wrong.” Sephiroth nodded.

“Awww, he’s so cute!” Zack hugged Cloud to his chest with a squeal.

“Please be careful, Zack. We don’t need him waking up.” Angeal said worriedly.

“Oh, right. Sorry.” Zack relaxed his grip a bit.

“I mean there’s nowhere he can go.” Genesis raised an eyebrow.

“Do you want to see if he will rip open the door to escape us?” Angeal asked, eyebrow raised.

“Ah, point taken and noted. The wandering soul knows no rest. ” Genesis nodded.

Sephiroth closed his eyes with a sigh. Angeal turned to him before placing a hand on his leg.

“Seph, are you alright?” Angeal asked, his voice low so the pilot wouldn’t be able to hear.

“I wish to understand why he was so afraid of me.” Sephiroth muttered.

“I am sure it is Hojo’s doing. He seemed more confused than angry. I am positive it is all coming from him.” Genesis said angrily.

That didn’t seem to make Sephiroth feel any better. So Angeal decided it was time to cut off this conversation.

“Let us just leave the investigation to the Turks and focus on Cloud for now.” Angeal said.

“Right.” Sephiroth sighed.

Angeal squeezed his leg and when Sephiroth opened his eyes, he gave the man a smile.

“Sirs, we will be landing soon.” the pilot said.

“Thank you. Keep it steady.” Sephiroth demanded.

They could see Midgar out the window and Shinra HQ was close by. Sephiroth straightened his back as they landed on the landing pad, a team of doctors already waiting.

“Here we go.” Zack muttered as Angeal opened the doors.

“Generals, we were told to meet you on the landing pad. Is someone injured?” the head doctor demanded.

“Dr. Wyld, we found a young man that we believe is one of Professor Hojo’s victims. He was found in a tank of mako and has already shown signs of disorientation and possible mako poisoning.” Angeal explained as Zack walked over and put Cloud on the gurney they had available.

“I see.” the doctor said before turning to her group.

“Take him immediately to the medical bay!” she ordered.

“Yes doctor!” the group said as they strapped Cloud onto the gurney and immediately headed for the elevator.

Zack went to follow them, but his shoulder was grabbed. Zack turned to Angeal in confusion.

“Zack, let’s go clean up and give them time to help Cloud.” Angeal said gently.

“What? But!” Zack looked between Angeal and the gurney that was disappearing into the elevator in confusion.

“Zack, we are still covered in mako residue, which isn’t good for us either. So let’s go get cleaned up and we can head immediately to the medical bay afterwards, ok?” Angeal explained.

Zack frowned, but nodded because he was starting to smell and his skin was beginning to itch a bit.

“Ok.” Zack said sadly.

Angeal gave his shoulder a squeeze before they headed for the elevator and hit the button for the SOLDIER floor. They stood in the elevator in silence, clearly all exhausted, but when they got to their floor, Genesis groaned and immediately pulled off his coat.

“Ugh, this is ruined. I am going to have to commission another one.” Genesis huffed.

Sephiroth chuckled lightly as he walked past and opened the door to their shared apartment.

“Don’t you have five still in your closet?” Sephiroth asked.

Genesis rolled his eyes.

“All of those coats are out of style. I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing any of them now.” Genesis stated seriously.

Angeal and Zack just shared a look before Angeal stretched and pulled his sword from his back before putting it on the sword rack by the door. Zack did the same with his training sword.

“Alright, who is first in the shower?” Angeal asked.

“Not Seph. He’ll use all the hot water with his hair.” Zack teased.

Sephiroth eyed the ends of his hair and made a face.

“Yeahhh, I’ll go first.” Angeal said before he walked past and disappeared into the bathroom before anyone else could.

“Hmph! In that case, I am making some tea. I need it.” Genesis headed for the kitchen.

“I am going to start gathering my supplies for my shower.” Sephiroth headed for the bedroom.

Left alone in the living room, Zack thought about sitting on the couch, but remembering that he was covered in mako residue, so he sighed and plopped down on the floor. As he sat there, his eyes started to droop a bit, but he tried to keep them open. He wasn’t tired! When Angeal eventually left the bathroom some time later, he found Zack fast asleep. Chuckling, he walked over and lightly shook him awake.

“Wha! Huh! I’m awake!” Zack snorted as he looked around.

“Shower is open if you want to grab it before Gen or Seph.” Angeal said quietly.

“Oh, right! Thanks!” Zack hopped up and rushed into the bathroom.

Angeal chuckled before he went into their bedroom for some clothes. He opened the door to find Sephiroth idly standing before the large mirror, staring at himself. He had stripped out of his clothes and was standing there in just his boxers, staring, but his focus wasn’t on what he was seeing in the mirror. Angeal frowned before he walked over and wrapped his arms around Sephiroth’s waist.

“Don’t hug me. You just took a shower and I am still filthy.” Sephiroth said, turning his head.

“Are you alright?” Angeal asked instead.

Sephiroth frowned and looked back to the mirror.

“I’m alright.” Sephiroth whispered.

Angeal frowned and gave him a squeeze.

“I know you’ve been meeting with the Turks about Hojo.” Angeal said softly.

Sephiroth sighed and nodded.

“They wanted my statements. They wanted to know what happened to me. What he did to me before…” Sephiroth paused and then shook his head.

Angeal rested his chin on Sephiroth’s shoulder. He stared at the man in the mirror. A man who was so strong, yet so emotionally fragile. Sephiroth had never spoken about what he had dealt with as a child before he had been saved. Before he had been removed from Hojo’s “care”. Angeal had always hoped one day he would tell them what happened, but now? He feared they would find out in the worst way possible and would undo all the progress they made with him.

“It will be alright. He will face justice.” Angeal said.

Sephiroth tried to smile, but it was weak at best. Sephiroth patted Angeal’s hand.

“Get dressed. I am sure you are cold.” Sephiroth stated.

“Right.” Angeal pressed a kiss to his cheek before he pulled away and headed for his closet.

Sephiroth stayed in front of the mirror.

—sSs—

Zack sighed as he rubbed his hair with his towel.

“All clean!” Zack said brightly as he threw open the door.

“Good. My turn.” Genesis all, but shoved Zack out of the way before slamming the door shut.

“Hmph, diva!” Zack stuck his tongue out at the door before heading for the guest bedroom.

Unlike his lovers, there had been no room for his clothes in the main bedroom (thanks to Genesis’ shopping addiction), so he had his clothes in the guest room. Grabbing a simple and easy to move in outfit, he brushed his hair real quick and winked in the mirror.

“Alright! Let’s go see Cloud!” Zack turned and walked out the door.

“And where are you going?” Angeal asked as he stepped out of the main bedroom.

“Med bay! Cloudy is waiting for me!” Zack said brightly.

“Zack, maybe give it more time?” Angeal asked.

Zack pouted and his shoulders slumped.

“But!” Zack whined.

“I was just about to heat up some soup for everyone. Why don’t you have some and then you can go? Give the doctors enough time to do all their tests, hm?” Angeal asked, though it was more like a command in question form.

Zack thought about it for a moment before sighing.

“Fineeee.” Zack whined as he entered the kitchen.

Angeal just shook his head as he also entered the kitchen.

—sSs—

Dr. Wyld frowned as she looked over her patient. The young man before her was a mess; thin, clearly dehydrated and malnourished. On top of that, under the lights of the medical bay, she could see where he had clearly been cut apart by someone with a surgeon’s hand. Various marks of different sizes covered his body, acting like a map to show what had been done to him. Sighing deeply, she turned to the IV bag and eyed it. The first thing they had done was take pictures of every mark and bruise, changing him from the clothes he had come in with to a medical robe for easy access. Then they had taken samples such as blood, hair and saliva to send out for testing to get a better understanding of what they were dealing with. After that, they had started an IV to replace the fluids he was missing.

Taking note of how much fluid was already gone, she made a mental calculation of how many IVs they would probably need before she heard a groan. She blinked and looked over to watch as his eyes fluttered open. She stared at the blue-green slitted eyes before they disappeared behind his eyelids again and he was unconscious once more.

“SOLDIER eyes?” she muttered.

She added that to her notes before going back to her work. She finished her check with her patient and then left. She had other patients to check on after all. She never realized he opened his eyes for a second time.

Chapter Text

The first thing that came back to Cloud when he woke up was his sense of smell. The smell of disinfectant filled his nose and made his stomach churn with fear and anxiety. The second thing he felt was pain in his arm. The third was the harsh beeping of machines. Slowly, he cracked his eyes open and turned to see what was causing him pain, wanting it to stop so he could go back to sleep. The second he saw the needle in his arm and recognized it, he panicked. With a trembling hand, he reached over and ripped it out, not realizing he also ripped out the wires on his other arm. As soon as an alarm started to go off, Cloud knew he needed to go.

Stumbling to his feet, he found himself in a white room, dressed in a hospital robe and completely defenseless. Fear truly started to set in as people flooded into his room, including several in white lab coats. Cloud’s eyes darted around, looking for a weapon of some kind as they drew closer.

“GET BACK!” he roared, grabbing the IV pole and holding it defensively.

Someone tried to grab him and Cloud slammed the pole into his stomach, sending him flying into a wall. When another tried to grab his arm, he shoved them and they hit another wall.

“STAY BACK! HE’S ENHANCED! CALL FOR SECURITY!” one of the doctors yelled. 

As they backed away from him, Cloud took the chance, threw the pole to knock them over and bolted for the door. He ripped it open and raced into the hallway. Over his head, he heard more alarms going off, flashing lights that confused and disorientated him. He needed… he needed to find a way out! He raced down one hallway, ignoring the shouting behind him.

“Someone stop him!” someone yelled as Cloud slammed into a wall, trying to turn and losing his footing in the process, smearing blood on the wall.

The pain barely phased him as he pushed off the flat surface to keep running. At the end of the hall, he saw an elevator. Maybe he could pull open the doors and escape? It was worth a shot. Cloud picked up the pace, but then the elevator dinged and the doors opened to reveal…

“Whoa!” Zack yelped as Cloud slammed into him and they fell to the floor in a tangled heap.

“Zack!” Angeal yelled as he moved out of the way.

Cloud immediately tried to get up and move away, but Zack grabbed his arms, holding him tightly.

“Whoa! WHOA! Easy there, easy!” Zack said, trying to keep Cloud from running off again.

“NO! NO! LET GO!” Cloud yelled, struggling violently.

“Don’t let those doors close!” a doctor yelled at the other end of the hall.

Cloud’s head snapped around, terror on his face before he turned back to Zack with wide eyes.

“LET ME GO! DON’T LET THEM GET ME! I DON’T WANT TO GO BACK TO THE LABS!” Cloud yelled, yanking violently at Zack’s grip.

Zack’s eyes widened before he quickly grabbed Cloud and held him close.

“Angeal, close the doors!” Zack yelled.

“What? Zack, we can’t!” Angeal said, baffled.

“Please!” Zack begged, trying to keep Cloud under control as he struggled.

Angeal huffed and slammed the close doors button, ignoring the way the doctors yelled at him to stop. As soon as the elevator started to move, Angeal hit the emergency stop and stopped the elevator in between floors. When the elevator stopped, Cloud slumped against Zack’s chest as his panic overwhelmed him, gasping heavily as he tried to breath. Zack held him tight, petting his hair and trying to sooth him with gentle words.

“It’s ok, it’s alright. I got you. You’re safe.” Zack muttered.

Angeal slowly knelt down and saw Cloud staring at him with wide eyes from where Zack held him against his chest. Angeal’s eyes trailed down to the blood smeared on Cloud’s arms.

“You’re injured. Here, let me help.” Angeal reached for him, but Cloud flinched back.

“Don’t touch me!” he hissed.

Angeal raised an eyebrow, but pulled his hand back and held them up.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you. I am just worried because you are bleeding.” Angeal said slowly.

“I’m fine. It’s already stopped.” Cloud replied quickly.

Cloud pulled back and Zack slowly let him go, but kept a grip on his arm. Sure enough, there were no wounds or injuries that Angeal could see, just some smears of blood.

“Cloud, can you tell me why you were running from the doctors? They were only trying to help you.” Zack said softly.

Cloud started to violently shake his head.

“Doctors never want to help me, all they do is hurt me.” Cloud replied angrily.

Zack and Angeal shared a concerned look, but said nothing, which was hard for Zack in this case.

“Ok, ok, but we can’t stay here forever. So we need to make a decision on what to do.” Angeal said, ever the calm, serious presence.

Cloud took that as a challenge and ripped himself away from Zack finally, despite the fact there was a part of him that doesn’t want to. That wanted to hide in Zack’s skin, in his shadow, and never come out. Cloud stumbled back, pressed against the wall like a caged rat and bared his teeth. 

“I won’t go back! You can’t make me go back! I will fight tooth and nail to escape, no matter what you do to me!” Cloud spat with venom.

“Cloud, we aren’t trying to do anything. We want to help you.” Angeal said again, but Cloud just shook his head.

“Liar!” Cloud whispered before his eyes went up.

There was an escape hatch above him and Cloud moved without thinking. He hopped up and hit it, causing it to open before Cloud grabbed the edge and pulled himself up.

“Wait, no!” Zack yelled, trying to grab him, but Cloud slipped right out of his grasp.

“Cloud, wait!” Angeal called, but Cloud didn’t wait. 

Cloud stood on top of the elevator before he started to climb. He scrambled up the wall, using all the strength he had to get up to the next level. When he got there, he stood on the thin edge and put his fingers in the crack of the door.

“Cloud!” Zack called, but Cloud ignored him to force the doors open.

When they were open enough, Cloud stumbled into the hallway. A scream made him look up to see a young woman standing there, eyes wide with terror as she clutched her paperwork to her chest like a shield. Cloud darted past her, not sticking around long enough to see what was going to happen next. There were alarms going off overhead, people yelling as he tried to find a way out. He NEEDED to find a way out or he would…

He would what? 

He didn’t know, but he just knew it would be bad and he would be…

Trapped.

Trapped again…

In glass…

A tank filled with liquid that burns…

That changes…

That is green…

Green…

GREEN…

Cloud turned a corner and stopped, panting, staring, unable to look away because…

“Cloud?” Sephiroth said, just as startled.

Cloud stood there, trembling and panting, trying to figure out his next steps. Sephiroth stared at him, concerned and wary.

“How did you get here, Cloud?” Sephiroth took a step towards him.

Cloud bolted in the opposite direction. He couldn’t think long enough to understand why he was running. All he knew was that Sephiroth was evil and if Sephiroth was here, then Cloud needed to leave. Cloud needed to be where Sephiroth wasn’t. At the end of the hall, there was a large window. Cloud could see the sky beyond the window. Could see freedom beyond the window. The window was his only way out. Cloud didn’t slow down, he sped up, putting all his energy and power into his steps.

“CLOUD!” a yell startled him, but he didn’t slow even one bit.

He crossed his arms over his face, fully prepared to break through the glass at full force when-

“Barrier.” Cloud slammed into the barrier so hard that he fell backwards.

Cloud cried out when he felt his arm break from force. He cradled it to his chest for a moment, gritting his teeth as he stared at the bone peeking through his skin, before he struggled to his feet. He released his arm, letting it hang by his side. He didn’t have time to deal with it now. The blood dripped onto the carpet, staining it as Sephiroth sighed.

“Genesis, really?” Sephiroth demanded as Genesis walked out of a nearby office.

“It worked, didn’t it?” Genesis replied with a shrug.

Cloud looked between them, his brain spinning with options and plans. Two generals against him, who now only had one working arm. The odds weren’t looking good. He swallowed and took a step back. The two of them immediately looked at him.

“Come now, little bird. Do not try to fly off again. Your wing is injured.” Genesis said seriously.

Little bird? Cloud blinked at him in confusion before he shook his head.

“Let me leave.” Cloud demanded.

Sephiroth shook his head

“We cannot do that.” Sephiroth replied.

Cloud glared at him.

“You can’t keep me here. I will get out.” Cloud stated coldly.

“You are injured. Malnourished, dehydrated and now you have a broken arm. You won’t last one day outside. Wings stripped away, the end is nigh. ” Genesis said, dismissively.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed.

“I have been through worse. I will survive.” Cloud said coldly.

Genesis and Sephiroth shared a look before they heard yelling.

“Cloud! Cloud!” Zack’s voice called.

“He’s over here!” Genesis yelled back.

Zack appeared around the corner, panting with Angeal right behind him.

“Cloud!” Zack said brightly, before his eyes landed on Cloud’s now broken arm with a gasp.

“What did you do!” Zack demanded, looking at Genesis.

Genesis raised an eyebrow, offended.

“He was trying to launch himself out a window! I stopped him! You should be thanking me!” Genesis snapped, pointing.

“But did you need to hurt him more?” Zack demanded.

As those two started to argue, Angeal stepped past them and stood before Cloud, who eyed him warily. Sephiroth was tense, watching Cloud, but also keeping an eye on Angeal just in case Cloud got aggressive.

“I understand you are upset and scared, but Cloud, we are not trying to hurt you. I can heal your arm if you let me help you.” Angeal said slowly and gently.

Cloud took another step back, but Cloud’s heel hit the barrier and he realized he was out of places to go. It was either go forward or wait for them to come get him. Neither option was great, but Cloud didn’t have any others.

“I won’t go back. I won’t.” Cloud said, shaking his head.

Angeal frowned.

“Cloud, you need medical attention. The doctors were only trying to help.” Angeal started, but Cloud cut him off.

“They weren’t trying to help! They were going to take me apart again! They were going to drug me so they could cut me open again!” Cloud snapped.

Cloud saw flashes of…

A scalpel held above him…

A bright light blinding him…

A grinning man with a cruel face…

“Let’s see what makes you tick, hm?” 

The sound of screaming…

His screaming? He wasn’t sure…

Cloud’s only good hand went up to his head and he moaned in pain. He could feel it, the phantom pain in his arms, legs, chest, stomach and back. The invisible blade cutting into his flesh. Cutting, scrapping, tearing- Cloud’s knees hit the floor and he curled into himself, trying to protect himself from memories that haunted him.

“Cloud!” an arm wrapped around him and then he was pressed against a warm body.

A warm body that smelt familiar and felt safe. Cloud’s eyes fluttered open and he looked up to see…

“Zack.” was the last thing Cloud said before his world went black.

—sSs—

Zack held the young man against him, cradling him gently as his body went completely limp. Zack let out a slow breath before he looked up at Angeal, Genesis and Sephiroth.

“What do we do?” Zack whispered.

“He should return to the medical bay…” Genesis trailed off.

“He will just run off again when he wakes up.” Angeal sighed, rubbing his forehead.

When Sephiroth didn’t add his two cents, Angeal turned to him to find him staring at Cloud with an unreadable expression. Angeal reached out and placed a hand on his arm, making Sephiroth blink and look at Angeal.

“I am fine.” Sephiroth whispered before Angeal could ask.

Angeal’s frown got deeper, but he just nodded and accepted that Sephiroth didn’t want to talk now.

“Well, where else do we take him?” Genesis demanded.

Before anyone could answer, they heard the sound of marching.

“Oh boy.” Angeal muttered as they turned to find a group of troopers behind them, all armed and ready.

“Sirs, we heard there was an escapee from the medical bay on this floor. Are you alright?” the head trooper demanded.

Angeal frowned. Zack pulled Cloud even closer, worried.

“We have him under control. You can return to your posts.” Angeal said, but the trooper shook his head.

“I am sorry, Sir. But we were told to neutralize the threat immediately. We will take him from here.” the trooper stated.

Sephiroth turned to them and narrowed his eyes. 

“The threat has been neutralized by us and we will handle the body. Return to your posts.” Sephiroth stated coldly.

The trooper looked nervous before he noticed the blood on the floor and assumed the worst. He nodded sharply.

“Very well, Sir!” the trooper saluted before leading his group out of the hallway.

The generals watched this happen before Angeal turned to Zack.

“Zack, we need to go.” Angeal said.

“But!” Zack started, but Genesis cut him off.

“He’s right, puppy. This area is too open. We need to get him somewhere contained and safe before he wakes up.” Genesis said.

Zack swallowed and nodded, but looked at Cloud’s arm in concern.

“His arm, I don’t want to move him when it’s like this. What can we do?” Zack asked.

Genesis sighed and knelt down, examining it.

“I will have to set it before I can Cura it. Sephiroth, help me.” Genesis demanded.

Sephiroth knelt down as well and between the two of them, they reset Cloud’s arm, who let out a small cry, but didn’t wake up. The three generals shared a worried look before Genesis cast Cura. They watched the skin close in silence.

“Ummm so resetting a bone is really painful, even I know that… so?” Zack asked worriedly.

“It seems his pain tolerance is quite high.” Sephiroth replied.

“Just another thing to add to the list.” Genesis sighed as he got up.

Sephiroth helped Zack up and they headed for the elevator. No one dared approach them as they walked down the hallway. The generals circled Zack and Cloud, providing cover for them both. As soon as they stepped into the elevator, Sephiroth’s PHS went off.

“Sephiroth.” he answered.

Sephiroth listened intently to the person on the other end before he nodded.

“Understood.” Sephiroth said.

Genesis raised an eyebrow when Sephiroth glanced his way, but Sephiroth just shook his head and Genesis huffed, crossing his arms. Sephiroth turned back to his call.

“Yes… yes… I understand, thank you… goodbye.” Sephiroth hung up and then sighed deeply.

“That sounds bad.” Zack whispered worriedly.

“Tseng just called. They finished their search of the lab and they found files. A lot of files.” Sephiroth said.

“On?” Angeal asked.

Sephiroth just glanced at Cloud and they all caught on.

“How many files are we talking about here?” Genesis asked.

“A lot.” Sephiroth just replied.

“That’s concerning.” Angeal said, brow furrowed.

“Very.” Sephiroth agreed.

“But maybe this will help us understand what happened to Cloud?” Zack said, trying to be hopeful.

The generals didn’t say anything and Zack’s shoulders slumped. Zack looked down at Cloud and frowned.

“It will be ok.” Zack finally said just as the elevator dinged.

Exiting to their floor, Sephiroth opened the door and Zack walked inside first, heading for the couch.

“Can we at least put something down first?” Genesis asked.

Zack ignored him and put Cloud on the couch, making him sigh.

“Yes, let’s put the little run away on the four thousand gil couch. That’s a great idea!” Genesis grumbled.

“We will buy a new one.” Sephiroth replied as he moved towards the bathroom for the first aid kit.

“It was one of a kind.” Genesis replied annoyed.

Angeal just patted Genesis on the shoulder sympathetically before heading for the kitchen. Zack knelt by Cloud’s side, making sure he was comfortable as he slept. Genesis sighed and walked over to a chair to sit down as Sephiroth came back with the first aid kit and a cloth.

“Thanks.” Zack muttered as he took the kit.

“I also brought a wet cloth.” Sephiroth held that out.

Zack gave him a smile before reaching over to wipe the sweat off of Cloud’s face. Cloud shifted slightly, but didn’t move away. Zack made sure to wipe his face, neck and arms before wrapping his arm, double checking he didn’t have any other wounds, grabbing a blanket and tucking him in.

“So now what do we do?” Genesis asked as Angeal came back with a pot of tea and some cups. 

Angeal handed one to Genesis, who nodded in thanks before putting the tray on the coffee table.

“I personally still think we should return him to the medical bay.” Genesis said again.

“That didn’t go so well the first time. I worry the second will be even worse.” Angeal said, crossing his arms.

“He doesn’t seem to fully realize he is enhanced and the doctors didn’t realize either. Now that they know that, he will be strapped down to the bed. That will cause him even more panic when he wakes up. I can tell you that from experience.” Sephiroth said simply.

“And how is that our problem? We just found him!” Genesis argued.

“We are the only people who can understand him, Gen.” Angeal stated.

As the trio argued about what to do, Zack just kept his attention on Cloud. Even in his sleep, Cloud seemed distressed. Zack reached up and started to stroke his hair, causing Cloud to settle down.

“We are going in circles!” Genesis threw up his hands in annoyance.

“This is not a simple situation.” Sephiroth said with a frown.

“Can’t we just keep him?” Zack finally asked.

The trio turned to him in surprise.

“Us? Zack, Cloud needs actual medical supervision and care.” Angeal said seriously.

“And we can provide that! We all have Cura! And Sephiroth has medical training!” Zack argued.

“Except, Cloud clearly has some kind of problem with Sephiroth.” Genesis demanded.

Zack winced and looked at Sephiroth.

“Sorry Seph.” Zack muttered.

“It is fine. He is not the first and won’t be the last, but usually I know why they don’t like me.” Sephiroth admitted.

“I truly believe it’s some kind of manipulation from Hojo. Perhaps he was attempting to make this young man into a rival for you.” Angeal stated.

Sephiroth tilted his head to the side thoughtfully.

“Back to the topic at hand.” Genesis cut in, annoyed.

Genesis turned to Zack.

“Zack, you don’t even know if Cloud wants to be near us. He’s run from us twice already. How can you be sure he wants to deal with us?” Genesis said seriously.

Zack frowned before he looked at Cloud with worry.

“I just… have a funny feeling Cloud will need us.”

—sSs—

“OOF! Whew, that’s the last of them, yo.” Reno groaned as he pulled back and wiped the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand.

“Are you sure?” Tseng demanded from the front seat, fidgeting with his tablet.

“Every file, folder, document and scrap of paper I could find are in these boxes. I double checked.” Reno said, patting one on the lid.

Tseng nodded distractedly. Reno raised an eyebrow, but decided he was too tired to ask as he climbed into the helicopter.

“So did the Big Boss get back to you yet?” Reno asked as he dropped into a seat.

Tseng just shook his head as Elena climbed into the pilot’s seat and started the engine.

“Damn, he must be really off the grid.” Reno muttered, leaning his elbow on one of the boxes.

Tseng again said nothing. Elena caught Reno’s eye and they shared a shrug before they started to fly off.

“I can’t wait to get home, take a shower and sleep for a million years!” Reno said, groaning as he stretched.

“I wouldn’t plan on that yet. We still have plenty to do.” Tseng finally spoke.

“Whattt! You’re joking! Can’t we hand these off to another team?” Reno whined.

“Not possible.” Tseng replied.

“Yeah, Reno! This is some highly confidential stuff!” Elena mocked.

Reno groaned and lowered his head.

“My hot shower.” he muttered.

Tseng paused and dropped his tablet into his lap, his eyes narrowed.

“I will need to speak to the President. Let him know what we found.” Tseng said slowly.

Reno and Elena both looked at him and then at each other.

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Elena asked, worriedly.

Tseng sighed and rubbed his forehead.

“I fear his reaction will be worse if I don’t warn him first.” Tseng admitted.

“But we don’t know for sure he’s-” Reno was cut off when Tseng’s phone rang.

Tseng pulled it out and answered.

“Tseng.” he stated.

Tseng listened for a moment.

“Rude? Report.” Tseng demanded.

Tseng visibly straightened up in his seat, making Elena and Reno nervous.

“What do you mean…?” Tseng stopped himself, his eyes narrowed.

“I see. Alright. We will meet you back at the office. Tseng out.” Tseng hung up and slumped back in his seat, much to their alarm.

“Boss, you good?” Reno asked.

“Rude just got the blood test back. It’s confirmed.” Tseng said softly.

“No way.” Elena whispered.

“Damnnnn.” Reno muttered.

Tseng opened his tablet again and stared at the picture.

“We found Cloud Shinra.”

Chapter Text

When Cloud woke up the next time, the first thing he noticed was the smell of apples and old books. As his eyes fluttered open, he found himself lying down and immediately tensed, but the room wasn’t white and he felt no pain in his arm, so he wasn’t back to the hospital room where he had woken up. That didn’t mean he wasn’t still in danger. The sound of pages turning made him glance up to see the red haired man from earlier sitting nearby.

“Awake again, huh, little bird?” Genesis asked as he closed his book.

Cloud slowly sat up, which took a lot more out of him than he wanted to admit.

“Where am I? And don’t call me that.” Cloud demanded.

“My home sweet home. And dear bird, with how quick you were to try and fly out that window, I feel the nickname is well deserved.” Genesis said smugly.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed.

“I was trying to leave.” Cloud snarked.

“From the 51th floor? That would be quite the exit.” Genesis said before snapping his book closed.

“I would have been fine.” Cloud said.

“Even the most enhanced SOLDIER can’t defy gravity. Speaking of, I am Genesis Rhapodos. A pleasure I am sure.” Genesis stated as he put the book down on the table.

‘How to Care for Your Chocobo; Chocobo Chick Raising for Dummies!’ was the cover, which also included a cute little chocobo chick sitting in a freshly cracked egg. Cloud saw it and scowled. Somehow, he knew this was being used to mock him.

“Not much of one.” Cloud replied.

“Oh? Many of my fans would give just about anything to speak to me, yet here you sit, doing it for free! You should recognize your privilege.” Genesis stated, waving his hands dramatically.

“And yet, I don’t want to be here, talking to you, so this isn’t much of a privilege, more like a prison.” Cloud snapped, across his arms across his chest.

“Well, if you hadn’t been so keen to attack our doctors, you wouldn’t be here, so you can blame your own actions for that.” Genesis said.

Cloud’s body stiffened.

“I wasn’t going to let them do what they wanted with me. I wasn’t going to stick around so they could poke and prod at me.” Cloud replied hotly.

Genesis eyed him.

“Those doctors were trying to help you. They were giving you fluids to save your life.” Genesis stated.

“As if I believe that!” Cloud spat.

“Quite honestly, it doesn’t matter what you believe or not. You attacked several doctors and attempted to bust out of Shinra Headquarters. That is a big no-no around here.” Genesis explained, wagging his finger.

“Then why am I here and not locked up somewhere?” Cloud asked, confused.

“Because someone believed you didn’t mean any harm.” Genesis sat back in his chair.

Cloud raised an eyebrow before the front door burst open.

“We’re back-! Cloud! You’re awake!” Zack yelled, holding up the bags he was carrying.

Cloud froze, staring at the man before him. Waking up for the first time with a clear(ish) mind, Cloud was forced to look at the man before him and really take him in. This man, this Zack, pulled at something in Cloud's memory. His bright smile and kind eyes made him remember…

The sound of rain falling…

The smell of blood and gunpowder in the air…

So many bodies…

So many bodies…

Cloud, searching, looking, needing…

A smile frozen in time…

Dead eyes staring blankly at the sky…

“You are… my living legacy”...

Cloud gasped and jerked back, falling to the floor.

“Cloud! Hey, whoa!” Zack yelped, attempting to come closer, but Cloud held up a hand as he scooted backwards away from him.

“Get away! GET AWAY FROM ME!” Cloud screamed.

Zack froze, startled by his sudden reaction. Angeal frowned and moved around him, handing Zack his bags before kneeling before Cloud, blocking Cloud’s view of Zack slightly. Zack even moved back to let Angeal take over while Genesis stayed where he was. Cloud was trembling, his breath coming out in shaky gasps.

“Cloud, I need you to listen to me, ok?” Angeal demanded.

Cloud’s terrified eyes landed on Angeal.

“I am not sure what or who you are seeing, but you are safe here. No one wishes to harm you.”Angeal said sternly.

Cloud’s panicked eyes turned to Zack and then back to Angeal.

“I am going to do some deep breathing exercises. Follow along and it will help.” Angeal said seriously.

Cloud just nodded and so Angeal started. Slowly and carefully, Angeal helped Cloud calm down until he stopped trembling.

“There, better?” Angeal asked.

“Y-Yes… thank you.” Cloud whispered, exhausted.

Angeal turned to Zack and nodded. Zack swallowed and then moved a bit closer. Cloud tensed slightly, but wasn’t nearly as panicked.

“Hey there, Spikey. Sorry if I startled you, but you’re ok.” Zack said with a smile.

Cloud blinked a few times before looking down.

“I… I’m sorry. I just… you reminded me of someone…” Cloud’s brow furrowed.

“Someone else.” Cloud finished.

Zack blinked and tilted his head to the side.

“Someone good?” Zack asked.

Cloud frowned.

“I don’t remember.” Cloud admitted.

Genesis huffed and clapped his hands as he stood up.

“Not that this hasn’t been fun, but we should probably get more information from our little friend here.” Genesis stated.

“Little?” Cloud scowled darkly.

“Well, you are certainly shorter than anyone here.” Genesis mocked.

“Maybe you are all just freakishly tall giants!” Cloud stated, arms crossed.

Before Genesis could say anymore, the door opened again.

“I am back… oh.” Sephiroth paused in the doorway.

Cloud breath hitched again, but the fear from before was strangely gone. Sephiroth wasn’t wearing the black outfit he remembered, but a simple gray button up and black pants. His hair was up in a bun and he had a small pair of glasses on his nose with a mask hanging from his ear. He even had what looked like a hat hanging from his pocket. Cloud stared at him and got the feeling he had never seen the man like this before.

“Should I-?” Sephiroth was cut off by Genesis.

“You live here, you aren’t leaving. We talked about this.” Genesis stated sharply.

Sephiroth frowned and glanced at Cloud before nodding. He closed the door behind him. Cloud couldn’t stop staring, but eventually did when Angeal coughed into his fist.

“Come on, let’s get you up off the floor.” Angeal stated.

“Right.” Cloud got up and managed to get back on the couch, but quickly found himself exhausted.

He guessed his escape attempt and several panic attacks had wiped out whatever energy he had. It didn’t look like he was getting out of here of his own free will any time soon. Angeal sat down next to him while Genesis stayed in his seat.

“Alright! I’m gonna put these groceries away and then we can talk!” Zack bounced to his feet and carried the bags to the kitchen.

Cloud stared after him in confusion before turning to Angeal.

“Is he always like that?” Cloud asked.

Angeal chuckled and nodded.

“Always.” Angeal agreed.

Sephiroth said nothing as he left the living room and went to the main bedroom, closing the door softly behind him. Angeal and Genesis both watched this with clear worry, but then Zack came back with a bottle that he shoved into Cloud’s hands. Cloud took it, but wasn’t sure what it was.

“Here! It will help you with the shakiness.” Zack said brightly before he sat on the coffee table, making Genesis grumble with annoyance about manners and the cost of good furniture.

Cloud blinked and then looked down at the bottle. It looked like a bottle of juice with some kind of catchy name that Cloud couldn’t make out due to the font.

“It’s a sports drink. It will help.” Angeal said.

“Oh.” Cloud mumbled as he opened it and took a sip.

It did actually make him feel a bit better, so he drank about half before putting the cap back on. When he was done, Angeal nodded.

“Now, Cloud, we need to ask you a few questions. Do you think you can answer them?” Angeal asked.

Cloud frowned before nodding slowly.

“I will try?” Cloud muttered.

“Let’s start easy. Can you tell us your name?” Angeal asked.

Cloud opened his mouth, only to pause. The more he thought about it, the more he realized he only remembered ‘Cloud’.

“Cloud…” Cloud said slowly.

“Last name?” Genesis asked, eyebrow raised.

Cloud swallowed.

“I… I don’t remember.” Cloud whispered.

Genesis and Angeal shared a look.

“Alright. What about where you came from? What is your hometown’s name?” Angeal asked.

Cloud opened his mouth again, but paused. He licked his lips, blinking rapidly.

“I… I don’t know.” Cloud replied.

“What about the region?” Genesis asked.

Cloud just shook his head.

“Alright. Do you remember anything before you woke up?” Angeal asked.

Cloud looked at him and then at Zack and then at Genesis before he looked down.

“I…” Cloud squeezed his eyes shut, trying to remember something, anything, that could help.

All he could remember is…

“There’s a man… he’s standing over me with a knife. He keeps saying he is going to cut me open and find out what makes me tick.” Cloud whispered.

Angeal swallowed hard while Genesis looked very serious. Zack frowned and placed a hand on his leg, giving a small squeeze. Cloud let out a breath and shook his head.

“I don’t… I don’t know what happened to me.” Cloud whispered.

His grip on the bottle was so tight that it started to creak ominously. Angeal carefully reached over and took it from him before he broke it and put it on the table.

“I see. Unfortunately, we think you were under the care of a man named Hojo.” Genesis stated.

Cloud’s breath hitched. The name ‘Hojo’ made his heart beat quicken and his hands start to shake. Zack quickly grabbed his hands and that made Cloud feel more grounded.

“Hojo. That sounds… familiar.” Cloud admitted.

“He was the Head of the Science Department here at Shinra. Recently, he was removed from his position and arrested for… well the list seems endless at this point.” Genesis explained.

“Cloud, the reason we found you is because we have been tracking down his labs and gathering evidence of his crimes. If you know anything, anything at all, about what he has been doing, we would really appreciate it if you could share that with us.” Angeal said, gently.

Cloud wasn’t sure what any of that meant. For some reason, his brain couldn’t wrap his head around Hojo being held responsible for any of his crimes. Cloud breathed deeply, trying to keep his panic down.

“I was Subject C. He was trying to do… something?” Cloud muttered.

Cloud saw flashes of…

Test tubes…

Equipment…

Men in white coats…

Tests…

Needles…

Hojo…

Green…

GREEN…

GREEN…

Cloud ripped his eyes open with a jerk. Cloud’s grip on Zack’s hands was so tight, Zack had to bite his lip to keep from screaming. Cloud released his grip and gasped.

“S-Sorry. I… sorry.” Cloud whispered, pulling his hands away.

“N-No problem. You just have quite the grip.” Zack muttered, rubbing his hands together, which were already turning red.

Cloud winced and crossed his arms, hiding his hands under his arms.

“I think that’s enough for now.” Angeal leaned back. 

Cloud nodded slowly, staring at the floor.

“What will happen to me now?” Cloud asked quietly.

“Well… that’s something we are working on.” Genesis said.

“Clearly, you can’t go back to the med bay.” Zack replied.

Cloud winced.

“I… really don't like doctors. Or needles. Or the smell of disinfectant.” Cloud muttered.

“Point taken and noted.” Angeal said.

Cloud suddenly yawned, slumping back into the couch as his eyes started to droop. Zack looked at Genesis and Angeal before jumping up.

“Come on, you need a shower and a nap!” Zack held out a hand, which Cloud took.

“Good idea, Zack. He can take the guest room for tonight. We can make a more solid decision when he wakes up.” Angeal agreed.

Zack flashed them a smile before tugging Cloud to the bathroom.

“Come on, you can borrow some of my clothes.” Zack said, disappearing with Cloud. 

When the two were gone and they heard the shower go on, Sephiroth finally came back, looking grim.

“What do you think?” Angeal asked standing up.

“Honestly, I fear the worst, but it seems Cloud is suffering from extreme mako poisoning.” Sephiroth said.

“Extreme is one thing to call it. The boy can’t even remember his own name. Hojo really did a number on him.” Genesis said simply.

“For now, we can only hope he remembers in time.” Angeal sighed.

Sephiroth looked towards the bathroom door. Angeal and Genesis, sensing his mood, moved to hug him and he clung to them.

“I never wanted anyone to suffer like me.” Sephiroth whispered, clinging to them.

They felt him tremble, but had no words to comfort him.

—sSs—

“You’re going to watch me shower?! What are you, some kind of pervert!” Cloud demanded, hotly.

Zack sighed as he turned on the shower before turning to Cloud.

“I’m not watching you shower. I am just going to stay in here to make sure you don’t fall!” Zack replied.

“I will not fall. Now leave.” Cloud demanded.

“Come on, Spikey! I promise, I won’t even peek, but you are barely able to stand! I mean!” Zack waved at him, where he was leaning heavily against the wall.

Cloud gritted his teeth, flushing with embarrassment, but couldn’t really argue.

“Ok, but if you peek!” Cloud hissed angrily.

Zack just held up his hands.

“Heard you loud and clear! I promise, I will stare at the wall like it’s the most interesting thing I have ever seen!” Zack said before turning to the wall and staring at it intensely.

Cloud stared at him oddly before sighing.

“Fine.” Cloud mumbled.

Cloud pulled the medical robe off and threw it on the floor before he shuffled into the shower. The hot water felt amazing right away and Cloud sighed as his skin started to warm up.

“Soooo.” Zack started.

“Shut up.” Cloud replied.

“Aw come on! I just wanna talk and get to know you better!” Zack said.

“There’s nothing to talk about and certainly no reason for us to get to know each other better.” Cloud replied coldly.

He grabbed a random bottle of body wash before he started to scrub at his skin. Faintly, he smelt apples.

“Whattt! Why not?” Zack asked, confused.

Cloud huffed.

“Because for all I know, you could be even worse than Hojo. I can’t trust that you won’t use anything I tell you against me.” Cloud replied.

“What! We would NEVER do anything like that!” Zack yelled, turning his head slightly.

“Face forward! You promised!” Cloud snapped.

Zack jerked his head back around to stare at the wall.

“Look, Zack, I get the feeling you are probably a good guy, but I don’t know anything about you, your friends or this company. So quite honestly, I’d rather keep to myself.” Cloud said coldly.

“My friends? OH! They aren’t my friends! They are my boyfriends!” Zack said brightly.

Cloud choked on some water and almost slipped, but managed to keep his legs underneath him.

“Boy-BOYFRIENDS?!” Cloud squealed loudly.

“Huh? I mean yeah? Is there a problem?” Zack said, confused.

“B-But… how is that possible? How do you even…?” Cloud flushed brightly, realizing he was getting into really personal territory.

“Ohhh Spikey! You called me a pervert, but it seems it was the pot calling the kettle black!” Zack laughed.

“S-Shut up!” Cloud yelled, flushing deeply.

Deciding he was done with his shower, Cloud quickly turned off the water and grabbed the towel Zack had hung up for him. Zack turned around just as Cloud covered his privates.

“You already look much better!” Zack said brightly.

“I would feel better with clothes.” Cloud replied shortly as his hair dripped onto the floor.

“Right, right! Ok, I think some of mine might fit?” Zack said, grabbing his hand and leading him to the guest room next door.

Cloud faintly noticed that the other three were still in the living room before he was brought into the guest room and Zack let go to close the door.

“Now let’s see!” Zack dug into the closet, throwing clothes over his shoulders as he searched for something?

Cloud sat on the bed, not caring that he was probably getting it wet. He found his eyes drooping. Shit, why was he so tired?

“AH HA!” Zack said loudly, making Cloud blinked rapidly and look up.

“Absolutely fucking not.” Cloud hissed.

Zack pouted, lowering the Chocobo racing pants and matching shirt that said “Chocobo Square” with a large Chocobo on it.

“Aw, why not!” Zack whined.

Cloud just crossed his arms and glared darkly. Zack huffed and dropped it to the floor. 

“Ok, ok, fine. Let’s see.” Zack grumbled before he went back to digging.

Cloud waited and eventually, Zack pulled out a simple pair of sleeping pants and a blank shirt. Figuring it was the best he was going to get, Cloud sighed.

“Fine. Give it.” Cloud demanded, holding a hand out, too tired to argue more.

Zack handed it over and Cloud waited for him to leave, but Zack didn’t. Cloud raised an eyebrow before he realized why Zack wasn’t moving.

“You’re joking! I won’t fall!” Cloud snapped.

“Can’t take any chances.” Zack just turned to look at the wall and Cloud huffed.

“Fine!” Cloud mumbled.

He put the shirt on first and then dropped the towel to slide the pants on, which was a bit more difficult, but he managed. When he was done, he found himself swimming in the clothes. Zack turned back around and smiled.

“Aww, you look so comfy!” Zack said.

Cloud narrowed his eyes at the other before grabbing the towel and starting to dry his hair. When he was done, Cloud found himself exhausted and yawned loudly.

“Alrighty, time for bed.” Zack said, gently herding him under the covers.

Cloud didn’t argue this time as he yawned again before his eyes drifted shut and he was out like a light.

—sSs—

It took everything in Zack not to coo and take a picture of Cloud as he snuggled under the covers. Instead, he gave a quiet “sweet dreams” before Zack slowly moved out of the room, leaving the door cracked open just in case before moving to the living room. There he found the other three sitting and waiting for him.

“Asleep?” Angeal asked quietly.

“Out like a light.” Zack nodded as he dropped to sit on Sephiroth’s lap to cuddle up against him.

Sephiroth gave a small smile and wrapped an arm around his waist, accepting the cuddles for what they were.

“We faintly heard some arguing, was everything ok?” Genesis demanded.

“I tried to get him to wear my Chocobo Square set I got last time I went to Golden Saucer. He wasn’t having it.” Zack admitted, shrugging.

Angeal just sighed and shook his head as Genesis and Sephiroth snickered.

“What! I had to give it a try! He would have looked adorable!” Zack whined.

“Let’s get to the topic at hand.” Sephiroth said, becoming serious.

“Right, like what Tseng told you on your phone call.” Genesis demanded.

Sephiroth sighed and rubbed his eyes.

“The desk drawers and two of the cabinet’s drawers were full of folders about “Subject C”.” Sephiroth explained.

“That many?” Angeal asked, surprised.

“Tseng was taking all of them back to Headquarters to review and compare to what they already have.” Sephiroth explained.

“I mean is that a lot?” Zack asked, looking around.

“Yes and no. Depending on how long Cloud was in his care, that could create a better timeline for what Prof- Hojo was working on.” Sephiroth admitted, stumbling over his words a bit.

Zack frowned, uncertain.

“Until we know more there, we will simply have to let them do their jobs…” Angeal trailed off.

None of them were particularly happy about having to wait, but the Turks were known for being thorough and they knew Tseng would tear those files apart until he got all the information he wanted or needed.

“I guess we wait then. Hopefully Spikey will be safe with us until then.” Zack muttered.

—sSs—

Somewhere far away from Shinra Headquarters, a mako pool bubbled. The whole pool began to glow a bright, sickly green before the surface finally stilled. As the glow died down, a hand covered in a black glove burst from the pool and reached for the sky.

Chapter Text

Reno stared at the pictures before him, his eyes searching for something, anything that he could use to say they were different photos before he groaned and dropped his head onto the desk.

“My eyes hurt.” Reno whined.

“Here. Coffee.” Rude said, handing him a cup.

“Did I ever tell you that I loved you?” Reno said, taking it with a charming smile.

“Only every day.” Rude replied.

“You mean every two hours.” Elena teased.

“Well, I love you even more than I did this morning.” Reno said, glaring at Elena, who stuck her tongue out at him, before taking a sip.

Rude gave a small smile before he moved on and handed Tseng a cup next.

“Thank you.” Tseng stated without looking up.

Rude nodded and moved on, handing Elena a cup next.

“Thanks!” she said cheerfully.

When all the coffee had been handed out, Rude went back to his pile of folders and own cup. Tseng sipped his coffee, only to pause.

“Found something.” Tseng straightened up.

The other looked at him as he got up and headed for the Board. The Board was an old white board the Turks used for very big investigations. Recently, it had been covered by a growing timeline, tracking Hojo’s many, many, MANY projects, including those that weren’t exactly on the up and up.

“According to this, Hojo’s first documented experiment on Subject C was about eight years ago.” Tseng said, writing that on the board.

“Eight years ago matches the time frame when Cloud Shinra went missing.” Rude stated.

“Also matches when Hojo’s documentation in the Shinra files starts to thin out.” Reno added.

Tseng took a step back, eying the data they already had. It all connected, if not in a strange sort of way.

“It all starts with Project Jenova.” Tseng mumbled.

“And Subject S.” Rude added.

“Ugh, calling him that makes my skin crawl.” Reno shuddered.

“I second that feeling.” Elena agreed.

“But it’s the truth. Even he said that Hojo called him that in the labs during his interviews.” Rude replied before sipping his coffee.

Tseng eyed everything, his brain going in a million different directions before his phone rang. He sighed before answering.

“Tseng.” he stated.

“Tseng, I just got your voicemail. What happened?” the voice on the other end asked.

“Boss. I’m sorry for calling you while you were off the grid, but it was… is big.” Tseng said as he walked over and sat in his chair.

“Big? How big, Tseng?” the voice demanded.

Tseng held up the photo from one of the folders and sighed.

“We found Cloud Shinra.” he said calmly.

For a moment, there was silence and Tseng wondered if he hung up before there was a deep breath.

“Where? What condition is the body in? Have you told the Shinra family? The President?” he asked.

Tseng mentally steeled himself.

“Boss… he’s alive.” Tseng replied slowly.

“What?” the man asked, sounding startled.

“He’s alive, Boss. He was in a tank of mako and we found documents showing that Hojo has had him for the last eight years.” Tseng said quickly.

“...alive.” the man muttered.

“Yes. I didn’t speak with him yet, but Reno did, if not briefly and I saw him with my own two eyes.” Tseng looked at Reno, who gave a thumbs up.

The other man let out a deep breath and he could faintly hear something creaking.

“I will be back in one hour. I want to see him with my own eye, Tseng. Make sure he doesn’t leave the building.” the man demanded.

“Yes, Boss. It will be done.” Tseng replied.

“Good. Valentine out.” there was a click and Tseng let out a sigh as he put it down and rubbed his eyes.

“I think I am going to need something stronger than coffee.” he finally said.

“Vodka it is.” Rude muttered as he got up, heading for the kitchen.

“Make it a double.” Tseng replied.

“Is he on his way back?” Elena asked, nervously.

“Yes, and he wants to meet with ‘Cloud’.” Tseng dropped into his chair.

“Oh boy.” Reno muttered.

“Are we sure that’s a good idea?” Rude asked as he came over with the bottle and poured Tseng a cup.

Tseng took it with a nod before downing it.

“Boss wants to see him. We will make it happen.” Tseng said when he was done.

“Well, that just got harder.” a female voice said as the door opened.

Cissnei walked in with a frown and a file.

“How so? He’s in the med bay.” Elena asked, confused.

“Except he’s not. He escaped and was taken by the Firsts to their apartment.” Cissnei said, handing Tseng a folder.

“He what!” Reno yelped.

“Ran right out of the med bay, according to the doctors and cameras. Ran straight into Fair’s and Hewley’s arms and then escaped them to run wild on the 51st floor before being stopped by Sephiroth and Rhapsodos.” Cissnei said, sitting on the edge of Tseng’s desk and taking his coffee.

“This is a nightmare.” Tseng whispered, rubbing his forehead as he read the file before him.

“How the fuck?” Reno muttered.

“He truly knows how to make a mess of things.” Rude grumbled.

“I have to wonder what he was trying to do. He almost launched himself out a window if Rhapsodos hadn’t stopped him.” Cissnei said.

“Out a window? How the fuck did he expect that to work?” Elena asked, baffled.

“No idea. I think he was just in a panic.” Cissnei stated.

“So we have a guy, enhanced, suffering from PTSD and quick to bolt.” Rude said, rubbing his head.

“That was under Hojo’s care for eight years according to these documents.” Reno added on.

“And who is also a Shinra, but doesn’t seem to know that.” Cissnei replied.

The Turks all looked at each other, uncertain.

“Enough. Boss will be here in an hour. We need to have everything he needs by the time he gets here and have ‘Cloud’ ready to speak to him. So let’s get started.” Tseng commanded.

“Yes Sir!” the Turks replied.

—sSs—

Cloud came back slowly into the world. He was warm, he was comfortable, he was… not where he was supposed to be. His eyes opened slightly, taking a chance to look around the room before remembering he was in the guest room of the group who found him. A group he still wasn’t 100% sure about. Slowly, he sat up, sliding out of the bed and getting to his feet. With a calmer mind and a little bit of energy, Cloud knew he had to leave. Zack had been nice and all, but it was time for him to get the fuck out of here.

Looking around the room, he grabbed a black sleeveless shirt and a pair of dark grey pants with a large belt (faintly these clothes felt familiar). He quickly placed the sleeping clothes in the hamper nearby before grabbing an older looking pair of boots from the bottom of the closet. After being sure he had everything he needed, he peeked out the door. He didn’t see or hear anyone, so he pushed the door open more and slipped outside. He paused for a moment, but when he heard nothing, he crept along the wall, heading for the front door. 

He wasn’t sure how he knew to move so quietly, faintly he thought someone had taught him how to do this, but eventually, pushed that thought away. He would worry about his missing memories after he escaped, when he had a chance to sit down and really think without worrying about being thrown into another tank or lab.

Cloud drifted past the bathroom with no issues and could see he was almost there. All he had to do was pass by the kitchen and he would be out the door. A creak made him pause and hold his breath. He paused just outside the kitchen and peeked inside, but saw no one. With a sigh of relief, he slipped past the kitchen and headed for the door.

“And where do you think you are going?” a voice called.

Cloud jumped and whipped around to see Sephiroth sitting in the chair Genesis had been sitting in, idly holding a newspaper he had clearly been reading.

“I’m leaving.” Cloud replied, straightening his spine.

Sephiroth raised an eyebrow, but closed his paper and put it on his lap.

“I don’t believe that would be a good idea.” he said.

“I don’t really care what you think.” Cloud snapped.

Sephiroth hummed thoughtfully.

“We are on the 49th floor. In order to leave the building from here, you would either need to go all the way to the 1st floor or the top floor. Both of which, I can tell you from experience, takes some time to get to. Time you won’t have once I raise the alarm and security swarms the building.” Sephiroth stated.

Cloud tensed his body, the familiar urge to bolt rising, but Sephiroth didn’t move. Their eyes locked and held for a while before Sephiroth spoke.

“I know how you feel.” Sephiroth stated softly.

“I doubt that.” Cloud replied coldly.

“You think so?” Sephiroth put the paper aside and folded his hands on his lap.

“A lot.” Cloud stated.

Sephiroth nodded before he spoke.

“The first time I woke up, not in the labs, I was terrified. I feared I had done something wrong and that I was being sent away, something the Profe-Hojo would threaten me with constantly. I didn’t know what to do, but when the doors opened and it wasn’t the doctors I was used to, I bolted. According to what I was told later, the chase was rather amusing for those watching the cameras and not so amusing for those trying to stop me. In fact, there was a whole floor that had to be renovated afterwards.” Sephiroth stated.

Cloud stood there, staring at him in shock.

“What happened?” Cloud asked slowly.

“Well, once they caught me and managed to explain what was happening, I never went back to the labs.” Sephiroth said.

Cloud frowned and crossed his arms, still holding the boots.

“And this is what? Supposed to convince me that you’re a good guy or something? That I am safe here?” Cloud demanded.

Sephiroth stared at him and Cloud could help the way a shiver went up and down his spine with those green eyes on him. For some reason, those green eyes just made him so anxious and unnerved. Sephiroth, seeing the reaction, shifted his gaze to just over Cloud’s shoulder, letting Cloud relax slightly.

“You don’t have to believe me. In fact, it’s a good thing you don’t. But you are safe here. No one wishes you harm.” Sephiroth said.

Cloud stared at him, trying to read something in his face, his body language, anything, but Sephiroth’s whole demeanor was just so open and relaxed that Cloud couldn’t read anything more from him. Cloud shifted on his feet.

“That man… Hojo… he hurt you too?” Cloud asked.

Sephiroth’s face shifted and for a split moment, Cloud saw fear, pain and anger, before it was gone.

“More than I wish to think about or remember. Hojo… hurt a lot of people.” Sephiroth replied slowly.

Cloud closed his eyes and for a moment, he could see Hojo’s face in his mind’s eye, staring down at him with a bright light behind him and a needle in hand. His eyes snapped open in panic.

“What will happen to me though?” Cloud demanded.

“That is still being discussed. You are enhanced and that makes this difficult.” Sephiroth replied.

“Enhanced. I heard people call me that. What does that mean?” Cloud asked.

Sephiroth raised an eyebrow, seemingly surprised he didn’t know.

“Allow me to explain. What Hojo was working on, at least what he was supposed to be working on and was hired to work on, was the SOLDIER program. It is a program Shinra created to take normal people and enhance their abilities to the extreme. Strength, speed, endurance, etc. That is what they meant when they said you were enhanced.” Sephiroth stated.

Cloud frowned, but strangely, this information didn’t surprise him. In fact, he was pretty sure he knew some of this. He eyed his own arm.

“In the elevator, Angeal told me I was bleeding, but I… I knew it was already healed.” Cloud said slowly.

“Rapid healing and recovery is another part of it. After all, SOLDIERS have to be durable for all the hard work they do. They are the main backbone of the Shinra army.” Sephiroth nodded.

“But why me? Why did he pick me?” Cloud asked.

“That, I don’t know, but there is a chance the Turks will find out.” Sephiroth stated.

“The… Turks?” Cloud muttered, tilting his head to the side curiously.

Sephiroth’s lips twitched like he wanted to smile, but held off.

“Yes. I am not sure if you saw him before you were knocked out, but that red haired man, Reno, is a Turk. They are a branch of Shinra that handles more… delicate matters.” Sephiroth said.

“Delicate? He hit me with a baton.” Cloud said coldly.

“To be fair, they also have to be able to protect themselves and at least he didn’t have the electricity running through it when he did.” Sephiroth replied.

“Electricity?” Cloud asked, horrified.

“Turks are not enhanced like we are. They have their own ways to protect themselves.” Sephiroth said with a shrug.

A sudden noise made Cloud jump a bit, but Sephiroth just pulled out his PHS.

“Ah, excuse me for a moment.” Sephiroth said before he answered it.

“Sephiroth.” he said into the PHS.

Cloud watched as Sephiroth listened to whoever was on the other end before nodding.

“Very well. We will be down shortly.” Sephiroth hung up and looked at Cloud seriously.

“There is someone who wishes to meet with you. Someone I think will have all the answers to your questions.” Sephiroth stated.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed.

“And that would be?” Cloud demanded.

Sephiroth smirked.

“My father, Vincent Valentine, who also just so happens to be Head of the Turks.” Sephiroth replied.

Cloud paused. Vincent Valentine? Why did that name remind him of…

Flashes of gold…

Of red…

Of black…

Of a silent watcher…

A broken heart…

A man and a beast in one…

Cloud hissed as he grabbed his head with both hands, causing the boots to fall and hit the floor with a thud.

“Cloud?” Sephiroth called, getting up for the first time.

“I’m fine!” Cloud snapped, taking a step back.

Sephiroth paused and then nodded.

“I understand. Do you need some juice or something? I think Zack put the bottle you were drinking back in the fridge.” Sephiroth said.

“I’m fine… where is he? Zack? And the other two?” Cloud asked, slowly pulling his hands from his hair.

His head was still pounding, but the images were already fading away. He wished they would stop. He was sick of them.

“Genesis went to get a new coat, Angeal had paperwork to do and Zack went… somewhere.” Sephiroth explained, shrugging.

“So they left you here to babysit me? Or keep me from leaving?” Cloud demanded, hotly.

Sephiroth raised an eyebrow.

“Despite what you think, we actually expected you to sleep for several hours more. You were only asleep for an hour. I was here because I was waiting for my father to return from his last mission.” Sephiroth explained.

“Oh.” Cloud mumbled.

“Not everything is a conspiracy to harm or get you, Cloud.” Sephiroth stated.

Cloud crossed his arms again, feeling strangely offended by that comment, but also could understand why Sephiroth was saying these things.

“Your father… why does he want to meet with me?” Cloud asked.

“I believe Angeal and Zack already explained this, but the Turks are putting together a list of crimes to charge Hojo with. They most likely want your story so they can add to it.” Sephiroth explained.

“But, I don’t even remember what happened!” Cloud said worriedly.

“And I am sure they will understand that, but they still want to speak with you. Perhaps you know more than you think you do.” Sephiroth stated.

Cloud swallowed hard. 

“I don’t know…” Cloud admitted.

Sephiroth frowned and looked like he wanted to move closer, but didn’t.

“If you wish, I can call Zack or Angeal and they can come escort you.” Sephiroth said gently.

Cloud stared at the man before he shook his head.

“No, no. I… I’ll go talk to him. Tell him… what I remember… whatever that is.” Cloud sighed, rubbing his forehead.

“Would you like me to ask him to come here? Rather than us going there?” Sephiroth asked.

Cloud frowned, not sure it mattered, but…

“No, I’ll go there.” Cloud said again.

Sephiroth nodded.

“Perhaps we can find you more comfortable clothes?” Sephiroth asked.

Cloud blinked and looked down before frowning.

“These… feel familiar.” Cloud said.

Sephiroth hummed.

“I am sure Zack won’t mind then. Though I think those are his favorite boots, so might I suggest the other ones?” Sephiroth stated, pointing to the ones on the floor.

Cloud blinked and looked down.

“How can you tell? They look like boots.” Cloud asked, eyebrow raised.

“There’s a star on the left heel that he refuses to take off.” Sephiroth replied.

Sure enough, when Cloud lifted them up, there was a faded red star on the left heel. Cloud huffed and held them out.

“Fine, I’ll use his other ones.” Cloud muttered.

“Thank you.” Sephiroth moved closer, but slowly, like Cloud was an easily spooked animal.

Cloud felt himself tense as Sephiroth got closer, but Sephiroth just took the boots and stepped back.

“Once you are ready, we will go.” Sephiroth said as he put the boots next to the chair.

Cloud nodded and grabbed the ones by the door, putting them on as Sephiroth did the same. Sephiroth looked at Cloud.

“I would ask you not to run off, but I am not going to because I know this will be painful for you. I just ask if you feel the urge, let me know and we can take a break.” Sephiroth explained.

Cloud looked at him and then nodded.

“Ok. I can do that.” Cloud muttered.

Sephiroth nodded in return before opening the door.

—sSs—

“Whoa. That’s… a lot.” Kunsel said, leaning back in his seat.

“I know right! It’s crazy!” Zack said as he grabbed his drink and took a sip.

Kunsel hummed as he idly grabbed his burger and took a bite. He chewed thoughtfully before he swallowed and spoke.

“Zack, are you sure it’s a good idea to keep this guy in your apartment?” Kunsel asked.

“Huh? Well, where else would we put him?” Zack asked, confused.

“Literally anywhere else. He seems unstable. What if he, like, attacks you and your boyfriends in your sleep or something?” Kunsel asked.

Zack paused and then squinted a little.

“I mean… I don’t think he’s dangerous? He just kind of likes to run.” Zack replied.

“Zack, I saw the report. He put three doctors in the med bay after throwing them around. He is dangerous.” Kunsel explained.

“But like, he wasn’t trying to! He was scared!” Zack insisted.

Kunsel sighed deeply.

“Zack, even when normal people are scared, they can still hurt other people by accident. This is a guy that, even you said, was just as enhanced as you or any of the Firsts. He could have killed someone.” Kunsel replied.

Zack frowned and looked down at the table before he sighed.

“I guess you’re right.” Zack mumbled.

Kunsel grinned under his helmet.

“Ohhh man, you have no idea how much I wish the other guys were here right now to hear that!” Kunsel said, chuckling.

“Yeah, yeah, chuckle it up.” Zack muttered before his PHS buzzed.

“Who is it?” Kunsel asked when Zack frowned.

“Seph. He said Cloud woke up and tried to bolt again, but now they are on their way to the Turks office and asked if I could meet them there.” Zack said, getting up.

“Alright, you head out. I got your tray.” Kunsel said, grabbing Zack’s tray.

“Thanks man, I appreciate it! I’ll see you later!” Zack said before running off.

Kunsel watched him go before he sighed and shook his head.

“Gaia, help him.”

Chapter Text

“Boss. Welcome back.” Tseng bowed his head politely as the man walked into the office.

Vincent Valentine was a man of impressive height with long, somewhat spiked black/gray hair and one eye covered by an black eyepatch. He walked in with a tailored suit and a large gun on his hip.

“Pleased to be back. How is the Hojo case coming?” he demanded as Rude handed him a cup of coffee.

“Well…” Tseng turned to the Board, which was now covered in documents, notes and bits of red string, including some just barely hanging on.

Vincent raised an eyebrow.

“That well, huh?” he asked as he sat down.

“We’ve gone through some of the new folders, but they are extensive. It will take time to go through each one.” Tseng admitted.

A snore made them look over to see Reno was out cold at his desk. Tseng and Vincent shared a look.

“Reno.” Vincent called.

Reno’s head snapped up and he still had a piece of paper attached to his cheek.

“Big Boss! You’re back!” Reno said cheerfully.

“Reno, I was gone for less than 6 hours.” Vincent said, sipping his coffee.

“It felt like forever.” Reno whined.

“Knock it off.” Rude demanded.

Reno huffed and stood up, stretching as Rude pulled the paper off his cheek. Reno frowned and tried to rub the ink off, but all it did was smear. Vincent turned to Tseng.

“I called Sephiroth already. He said he would bring this ‘Cloud’ down so we could speak with him.” Vincent stated.

“So, should we put on our running shoes?” Elena asked.

“I believe Sephiroth will keep him from getting too far, but I have a plan to keep him from bolting. That plan begins with you all leaving.” Vincent explained.

“Boss…” Tseng started, but Vincent held up a hand.

“I have a few things I need you all to check. This is the perfect time for that.” Vincent replied.

“Us?” Reno whimpered.

“Your place is your bed, Reno. Gaia knows I cannot listen to you whine about being tired much longer. You are dismissed.” Vincent said simply.

“HA! Later losers!” Reno all but danced out of the room, flipping them off as he did.

“Asshole.” Cissnei muttered as soon as he was gone.

“Elena, Cissnei, I need you to go back to the files we found at the last location. I want you to see if there is any mention of Cloud at all. Make note of anything you find, even the most insignificant detail.” Vincent said.

“Nooo, not the closet!” Elena whined.

“Unfortunately, yes. So go.” Vincent replied.

Elena whined, but got up, heading for the door. Cissnei made a comment about Elena heading back to “where she started”, but Vincent ignored it when Elena tried to kick her and failed. Vincent looked at Tseng and Rude.

“Rude, head to the apartment where Hojo lived. Tear it apart.” Vincent said.

“Didn’t we already do that though?” Rude asked, confused.

“I mean I want every floorboard ripped up, every wall busted open and, if you have to, pull the damn toilet out of the floor. I mean tear it apart .” Vincent stated seriously.

Rude raised an eyebrow, but nodded, grabbed a sledgehammer from the corner of the room and left. When only Tseng was left, Vincent sighed.

“And what of me?” Tseng asked.

“You will have the hardest task I’m afraid. You need to go to the President… and tell him what we have so far.” Vincent stated.

Tseng’s mouth twitched like he wanted to frown, but didn’t.

“I see. And you think he will take it better coming from me?” Tseng asked.

“I don’t think the conversation is going to go well either way, but I’d rather not put it off any longer or we risk him hearing it through the rumor mill.” Vincent admitted, leaning on his fist.

Tseng sighed deeply.

“Very well. I will head there now. When should I report back?” Tseng asked.

“Give me at least two hours. If you don’t hear from me by the end of hour two, just assume it’s best not to come back. If you don’t hear from me after hour four, congrats! You are the new Big Boss.” Vincent stated.

“I see. I will keep that in mind.” Tseng replied.

“Good, you are dismissed.” Vincent said.

“Yes, sir.” Tseng bowed and left.

Alone for the first time, Vincent sighed and finished his cup. Holding the now empty cup, he got up and moved over to the Board. His eye trailed over the information there before it stopped on the data at the bottom. His eye narrowed as he grabbed it with a frown.

“I see… so that’s what this is about.” Vincent muttered.

Vincent threw the cup in the trash before heading for the door. The second there was a knock on the wood, he opened it.

“Sephiroth.” Vincent said pleasantly.

“Fa-Valentine.” Sephiroth stumbled over his title for a moment before catching himself.

Right now, Vincent was not his Father, he was Vincent Valentine, Head of the Turks. Vincent nodded before glancing at the young man between them. Cloud’s SOLDIER eyes locked with his own red. 

“And you must be Cloud.” Vincent said politely.

“I am. Sephiroth said you needed to speak with me?” the young man replied.

“I do. Please, come in.” Vincent moved aside and Cloud shuffled inside with Sephiroth following.

“Take a seat wherever you feel comfortable.” Vincent stated.

This was, of course, a test. To see what type of person Cloud was. Would he take a chair behind a desk, trying to show some kind of authority? Would he take a chair closest to the door for a quick escape? Or would he just take whatever chair he saw first, trying to come across as nonchalant and uncaring? Vincent watched as Cloud scanned the room, his eyes taking in everything with careful consideration. Cloud clearly noted that there were no windows, only one door in and out, no visible weapons, and that the room was empty.

Cloud moved away from the door, eying a few chairs behind desks before grabbing a chair and placing it against the wall, on the same wall as the door before sitting down with his arms crossed. Vincent watched this curiously before turning to Sephiroth.

“Please, take a seat as well.” Vincent said.

“Thank you.” Sephiroth took a chair that was sitting almost in the center of the room, in the direct eyeline of Cloud.

Vincent was a bit amused by his son’s choice, but simply slipped back into his own desk chair and pulled out a notebook.

“Let me start at the beginning. My name is Vincent Valentine. I am the current Head of the Turks. My job here is to find out what former Professor Hojo was working on using Shinra company funds.” Vincent started.

Cloud listened and said nothing, his eyes watched Vincent’s every move carefully. If Vincent didn’t know any better, he would think the kid was a Turk. There was something in the way he acted that was very Turk-like. Vincent mentally added that to the growing folder in his brain just called “Cloud”.

“The place where you were found was an abandoned Shinra uniform factory. It was noted in Hojo’s file that he had visited the location recently along with several times before. We had no idea why and that’s why the Firsts were sent.” Vincent continued.

Cloud’s head tilted slightly as Sephiroth nodded.

“Why the Firsts?” Cloud asked.

“We had been sent out to other locations and found… some rather unfortunate creatures that needed to be handled. It was a precaution.” Sephiroth answered.

“Alright.” Cloud replied.

Vincent took note that Cloud had tensed slightly when Sephiroth spoke. He would have to ask Sephiroth about it later.

“Now, we have been reviewing Hojo’s files that were labelled “Subject C”, but they are extensive. So I was hoping you could provide some information so we know we are on the right path.” Vincent explained.

Cloud frowned and shifted slightly, clearly uncomfortable.

“I can try, but… to be honest, I don’t remember much and what I do remember is…” Cloud trailed off, looking to the side.

“I see. Let us start with your name then.” Vincent said calmly.

“I… think it’s Cloud? That sounds familiar.” Cloud said slowly.

Vincent nodded, making a small note.

“And your last name?” Vincent asked.

Cloud shook his head, sadly.

“I see… might I suggest mentally going through the alphabet, letter by letter, and seeing if any stand out?” Vincent asked.

Cloud raised an eyebrow, but nodded. They could see him going through the alphabet because his mouth moved slightly behind his lips as he did each one. When he got to “S”, he paused.

“S… something.” Cloud finally said.

Vincent nodded and made another small note.

“Birthdate?” Vincent asked.

Cloud shook his head.

“Alright, what age do you think you are?” Vincent asked.

“I… 20ish? Maybe?” Cloud said slowly.

Vincent made a note with a question mark at the end.

“Any ideas on where you were born?” Vincent continued.

“No, Angeal already asked me all of this and it didn’t… go very well.” Cloud admitted.

“And what do you mean by that?” Vincent asked.

Cloud swallowed hard.

“My head… sometimes I remember things. Strange things, but it’s not… coherent. It’s like flashes. Bits and pieces.” Cloud explained.

“Flashes of?” Vincent asked, curiously.

“I don’t know. The last one was of your name and none of it made any sense.” Cloud shrugged.

Vincent paused.

“My name?” Vincent asked.

“It… I saw someone. Someone else. Like you, but not. Different.” Cloud paused, frustrated that he could get his words out properly.

Vincent watched this with curiosity and confusion.

“This other Vincent Valentine.” Vincent cut in when it seemed Cloud was spiraling.

Cloud blinked rapidly, looking at him.

“Tell me about him.” Vincent said.

“It’s not… I can’t explain it. It’s like… I remember tragedy. A sad man. Someone who lost everything he cared for. Someone in mourning.” Cloud explained slowly.

Vincent actually felt himself go still. A sad man? Someone who had lost everything? He thought of Lucrecia, of Sephiroth, of the years he missed because of Hojo before he shook himself out of it.

“I see. I have to admit, I don’t see myself as a “sad man”, but perhaps these terms were placed in your mind by someone else.” Vincent said calmly.

Sephiroth looked at him and he could see worry in his eyes, but Vincent kept going.

“What about when I say “Hojo”?” Vincent asked.

Cloud stiffened.

“A man with a scalpel, a bright blinding light and the words “let’s see what makes you tick”.” Cloud whispered, hands clenching his arms so hard his knuckles were white.

Vincent nodded.

“What about SOLDIER?” Vincent asked, making Sephiroth raise an eyebrow.

“Honor. Pride. Falling from grace. People dying.” Cloud said, still upset.

“What about Shinra?” Vincent asked.

Cloud calmed slightly, but his brow furrowed.

“The smell of fire, of gunpowder and the heavy feeling of sorrow. Of greed paid with blood.” Cloud said.

“Anything else?” Vincent asked.

“That’s everything so far.” Cloud said.

Vincent made a note before putting his pen down and entwining his fingers together.

“Cloud. I am not sure what has been explained to you already, but the doctors in the med bay did take some samples while you were unconscious.” Vincent said.

Cloud’s body tensed violently and he seemed to be eying the door suddenly. Sephiroth didn’t move, but Vincent could tell he was ready in case Cloud tried to run.

“Samples.” Cloud said shortly.

“Correct. They, of course, were looking to see what they could find and how they could help you.” Vincent explained.

“Help. Right.” Cloud said, his voice cold.

“They did manage to get a DNA sample and compared it to people we already had on file. They found a match.” Vincent stated.

Cloud stared at him before his eyes narrowed.

“Wait, if you knew who I was the whole time, why bother asking me!” Cloud demanded hotly.

“Because.” Vincent cut him off.

“Because?” Cloud pressed when he said nothing more.

“Because I had to see if you were hiding something. But I believe, and the tests prove, that you are suffering from extreme mako poisoning, which is the cause of your memory loss and confusion.” Vincent said.

“Ok… so who am I then?” Cloud demanded.

Vincent pulled open a file and held it out. Cloud leaned forward to get a better look.

“Your name is Cloud Shinra. Younger half brother of the current President of Shinra Electric Company, Rufus Shinra.” Vincent stated.

Chapter Text

A knock came to the door and Rufus sighed.

“Who is it?” Rufus demanded, rubbing his forehead.

“Mr. President, it’s Tseng.” a voice called from the other side.

“Unless you have vodka or a shotgun, go away.” Rufus replied.

“Mr. President, it’s important.” Tseng called.

Rufus sighed again, deeper and with more annoyance than before.

“Come in.” he called finally when he sensed Tseng wasn’t going to leave.

Tseng stepped inside and bowed.

“Mr. President, good day.” Tseng said politely as he closed the door.

“Whatever it is, it better not involve Reno or I am firing him.” Rufus stated.

His head was pounding. He had been in meetings all day and didn’t have time for any of this. Much less the patience for it. And Tseng didn’t do social calls, so whatever he was about to say was going to ruin Rufus’ already bad day.

“Thankfully, Reno has stayed out of trouble today.” Tseng replied.

Rufus opened one eye.

“Then why are you darkening my doorstep?” Rufus demanded.

“Because I have an update on that investigation.” Tseng explained.

It took Rufus a moment before he straightened in his seat.

“Very well, status report?” Rufus demanded, holding out his hand.

“We found him.” Tseng said instead.

Rufus blinked at him.

“Found him?” Rufus asked, confused.

“Mr. President… we found Cloud.” Tseng stated.

Rufus stared at Tseng, blankly, his hand dropping into his lap.

“You found… Cloud?” Rufus whispered.

His heartbeat quickened as he sat there. They had found Cloud? They had finally…?

“Yes, we have.” Tseng nodded.

“I see…” Rufus stood up and turned away from him, going to stand by the window.

He couldn’t face Tseng. Not now. He took several minutes to just absorb those words before he spoke.

“What condition was he in? His body I mean. Is it bad enough that I can’t have an open casket?” Rufus finally asked.

Tseng didn’t answer him for a moment and Rufus was about to snap at him when he finally spoke.

“Mr. President… Rufus… Cloud’s alive.” Tseng replied.

Rufus turned to him, startled.

“Alive?” Rufus whispered.

Tseng nodded. Rufus stared, trying to see if Tseng was lying to him, but there was nothing. He walked back to his desk and slumped into his chair.

“Alive… as in breathing?” Rufus asked.

Darkstar, who had been sitting patiently by his door, walked over and placed his head on Rufus’ knee, whimpering. Rufus started to pet him idly, just to give himself something to do.

“Alive, breathing and conscious.” Tseng nodded.

Rufus reached up and rubbed his mouth.

“I thought… we never got a note. They never asked for a ransom. I thought…” Rufus whispered.

“They didn’t need it… it was Hojo.” Tseng stated.

Rufus’ head snapped to him.

“Hojo? Hojo took…?” Rufus demanded.

“He was found by the Firsts during their mission this morning. They found him in a hidden lab… in a mako tank.” Tseng explained.

Rufus stared at him.

“He experimented on Cloud?” Rufus demanded in horror.

“It seems so.” Tseng said sadly.

“Hojo… Hojo experimented on my little brother?” Rufus demanded, his voice rising.

“Yes. So it seems.” Tseng nodded again.

Rufus gritted his teeth before he calmed himself down.

“I want Hojo tried, Tseng. I want him to face justice immediately. No more playing around.” Rufus demanded.

“It will be done.” Tseng bowed.

Rufus nodded before he swallowed.

“Cloud… how is he?” Rufus asked.

Tseng lowered his eyes.

“I do not have all the information yet, but he is here in the building with the Firsts and speaking to Valentine right now.” Tseng said. 

Rufus stood up.

“I want to see him.” Rufus moved around the desk, but Tseng blocked his path.

“Mr. President, wait.” Tseng said, hand out.

“Tseng, I want to see Cloud. It’s been 8 YEARS since I have seen my little brother. I demand to see him!” Rufus hissed.

“And I understand, but I fear Cloud needs time. From what the doctor told me, he is suffering from severe mako poisoning.” Tseng explained.

“That doesn’t matter. I want to see him.” Rufus tried to move around him, but Tseng stepped in front of him again.

“Tseng.” Rufus said dangerously as Darkstar started to growl.

“Rufus… Cloud doesn’t even remember his own name.” Tseng said calmly.

Rufus stared at him blankly.

“What?” Rufus asked.

“Cloud doesn’t even know who he is, Rufus. I doubt he will know who you are.” Tseng explained.

“But I’m his brother!” Rufus snapped.

Tseng just shook his head.

“I fear that doesn’t matter. Cloud isn’t the person you remember him to be.”

—sSs—

Cloud stared at the picture in the folder, trying to wrap his mind around the picture and what he knew. It was of two boys, one older than the other, but there was a similarity in their features that showed they were at least related. They were smiling, holding on to each other. They seemed so young, so carefree.

“Cloud Shinra.” Cloud whispered, leaning back and looking off into the distance.

“If I may cut in?” Sephiroth asked.

“Go ahead.” Vincent said, closing the folder as he put it back on his desk.

“I did not realize the President had a brother.” Sephiroth said slowly.

“That is because he went missing 8 years ago.” Vincent replied.

“Even before that.” Sephiroth stated.

“Well, that is because no one knew. Except me and two other individuals.” Vincent sat back in his chair.

“Why?” Cloud asked.

Vincent took in a deep breath and closed his eye.

“Why did no one know about me?” Cloud pressed.

“When you are the son of the most powerful man in the entire world, everyone wants something from you. Before Cloud was found, Rufus was the only heir to the Shinra family and he had been kidnapped 7 times by the time he was 3 years old. Nannies, servants, the pool boy, you name it. Everyone had tried to get their hands on him and it was the Turks who kept him safe. That all changed when Cloud came.” Vincent stated.

“It sounds…” Sephiroth trailed off.

“It was a time of uncertainty, but we made it work. When we found out about Cloud, Rufus was 5 and Cloud was 2. He was brought here after his mother passed away and raised alongside Rufus in case anything happened to him. Rufus was still the main heir, but Cloud was the backup. The spare if you will.” Vincent explained.

“The spare… like a spare tire? Spare parts?” Cloud demanded, angrily.

“Exactly. As I said, Rufus was the main heir and we needed to make sure he survived into adulthood to take over the company.” Vincent stated.

“So when I disappeared, it must not have been a big deal to you all.” Cloud said coldly.

“Actually, it was devastating. Especially for the Turks who were charged with keeping track of you, myself included. The problem was, President Shinra did not care that you were gone and refused to let us look for you, claiming he didn’t want to waste company resources. Rufus, however, wanted to tear the world apart, but did not have the power to do so. We were forced to wait until the new President took over.” Vincent corrected.

“8 years ago… President Shinra died 6 years ago.” Sephiroth said.

“Yes, he did. When he passed, the new President’s first action was to look everywhere for you. He never stopped, never gave up, never once considered you were truly gone.” Vincent stated.

Cloud listened to this all blankly. He tried to wrap his head around it, but the pieces didn’t fit properly. Like a puzzle where the pieces were warped. Cloud struggled with the idea and it was clear in his demeanor.

“You don’t seem to believe me.” Vincent said after a moment.

“I… I don’t…” Cloud shook his head.

“Tell me what you are struggling with.” Vincent asked, his fingers laced together calmly.

Cloud’s foot began to tap rapidly.

“I don’t remember having a brother. The name Rufus doesn’t bring any flashes. I…” Cloud trailed off.

Vincent raised an eyebrow.

“Nothing at all?” Vincent asked.

“No.” Cloud replied.

Vincent nodded.

“The human mind is a strange thing, Cloud. I am sure over time more memories will appear. Do not push yourself.” Vincent explained.

Cloud nodded slowly before he spoke.

“What happens to me now?” Cloud asked quietly.

Vincent eyed him.

“I’m dangerous. I’m enhanced and unstable. Are you going to… lock me away?” Cloud asked.

“Do you think you need to be?” Vincent asked instead.

“I don’t know. I hurt people. I didn’t mean to, but I did.” Cloud stated.

“You put three doctors in the med bay.” Vincent agreed.

Cloud’s jaw clenched. Sephiroth spoke up.

“If I may?” he said.

“Go on.” Vincent nodded.

“I believe he will be fine with us.” Sephiroth said.

“Us? As in your polycule?” Vincent asked.

Cloud flushed at the word, but Sephiroth just nodded.

“Zack has become quite attached.” Sephiroth stated.

As if summoned by his name, there was a knock at the door.

“Seph? Spikey! Mr. Valentine! It’s Zack! Can I come in?” Zack’s voice called.

Vincent noticed that Cloud seemed to relax a little, but then noticed it and was confused by his own reaction. Vincent made a quick note.

“Come in.” Vincent called.

Zack threw open the door and bounced right in.

“Hey everyone!” Zack said brightly, shooting Sephiroth a quick smile, which he returned.

“Zack. A pleasure to see you again.” Vincent said pleasantly.

“Zack.” Cloud breathed and Zack walked right over before kneeling before him.

“Hey Spikey! I hope the big bad Turk Boss hasn’t been mean to you!” Zack said.

Cloud looked at Vincent before looking back at Zack.

“He’s been… fine.” Cloud said.

“Well, that’s good!” Zack leaned in a bit and covered his mouth with his hand.

“Don’t worry, Vincent might seem like a meanie, but he’s really a good guy!” Zack “whispered” to Cloud.

Cloud raised an eyebrow, looking between Vincent and Zack with confusion.

“Right…” Cloud eventually said.

“Zack, you have wonderful timing. We were just finishing up.” Vincent said, standing up.

“Great! Does that mean I can take Spikey home?” Zack asked as he got up.

Vincent looked at Sephiroth, who nodded.

“You may.” Vincent said before looking at Cloud.

“Thank you, Cloud, for speaking with me. You can go.” Vincent stated.

Cloud seemed a bit annoyed that no one asked him what he wanted, but just nodded and stood up.

“Come on! It’s getting late and I bet you are hungry!” Zack wrapped an arm around Cloud’s shoulders, who stiffened, but didn’t push his arm off, before Zack directed them out the door.

Faintly, Vincent could hear Zack talking a mile a minute as they walked away before the door closed fully and he couldn’t hear anything else. The second they were gone completely, Vincent sighed and reached up to rub the bridge of his nose.

“Father?” Sephiroth called.

Vincent looked at him and Sephiroth was standing before his desk.

“Sephiroth.” Vincent moved around the desk and they hugged.

Vincent made sure to hold on for an extra few seconds before he pulled back and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Father, how are you? I hope your mission went well?” Sephiroth asked politely.

“It was going about as well as expected until I had to come back early. I see your mission went a little… sideways.” Vincent stated.

“It was going well until Angeal noticed the wall. After that…” Sephiroth shook his head with a sigh.

Vincent sat down and waved his hand for Sephiroth to do the same. As they sat there, Vincent eyed his notes.

“And what do you think of him, Sephiroth? This ‘Cloud’?” Vincent asked.

Sephiroth’s brow furrowed and he took a moment to think before speaking.

“He is… strange. There are things he does, things he says, that tells me he has some kind of Shinra based knowledge or at least, training. But then there are times he seems to be confused by his own actions. The clothes he wore are items he took from Zack’s closet, but when I offered him different ones, more comfortable ones, he claimed they were “familiar”. I made note that when he tied his shoes, he tied them the same way the troopers are trained to.” Sephiroth explained.

Vincent hummed, taking all of this information down as well.

“I was curious about his attire, but I had assumed one of you had given it to him. It makes more sense that he picked it himself. It seems like he tries to control whatever he can.” Vincent replied.

The two men sat in silence for a moment before Vincent spoke.

“I do hope you understand that this is just the beginning. Tseng went to tell the President about what we found.” Vincent said.

Sephiroth nodded.

“I expect nothing less. I just hope he understands what kind of situation we are now in.” Sephiroth said.

“Do you think Cloud will attempt another escape?” Vincent asked.

“I would be more shocked if he didn’t.”

—sSs—

Rude wasn’t sure what he was expecting when Big Boss told him to tear the Professor’s old apartment apart. After all, they had gone over the whole thing with a fine toothed comb, but as his hammer hit the wall next to the toilet, he paused.

“Hello? What’s this?” Rude said, lowering his sunglasses.

Placing the hammer down, he peeked into the hole before reaching inside. As he pulled his hand back, he found a bundle of clothing. He eyed it in confusion, but pulled out a Turk evidence bag and put the clothes in it. Placing that to the side, he reached inside again and pulled out a file and a recorder.

“Bingo.”

Chapter Text

Angeal sighed as he signed the last paper and put it in his “Out” bin.

“Done.” Angeal groaned as he stretched.

Normally, he didn’t let his paperwork pile up like this, but the last few days had been crazy and he had a funny feeling he would be preoccupied with their new “friend” in the days to come. So it was best to get this done rather than having it pile up more.

Speaking of their new “friend”, Sephiroth had texted him to let him know he was taking Cloud to see his father, Vincent. Angeal felt almost bad for the guy. Vincent could be really scary when he wanted to be. After all, you didn’t become the Head of the Turks by being a nice guy. In fact, Vincent had taken the time to have a nice, long talk with Genesis, Zack and Angeal when each one had been brought into Sephiroth’s life. A nice, vaguely threatening, very Turkish talk about what would happen to them if they ever hurt or betrayed Sephiroth or Shinra.

Not that any of them would. Angeal’s eyes landed on a small picture frame and he smiled at it. It was a picture of the four of them, just sitting outside, leaning on each other and spending some time together. It was one of Angeal’s favorites and he often looked upon it when he was thinking about his boyfriends. Some people wondered how they could possibly work as they did, but to Angeal, it was simple.

Each one brought out the best (and sometimes the worst) in each other. It had taken a long time to find the right dynamic with each other, but they had done it. They had worked hard to learn how to communicate what they needed, whether it was comfort or space. Sure, sometimes they didn’t always get it right, but they tried and that made it all worth it. A knock to his door made him look up, breaking him out of his thoughts.

“Come in!” he called.

The door opened with flourish and Genesis walked in with a new coat.

“Angeal~ Darling~” Genesis said with a smirk.

Angeal eyed his new coat with interest.

“Genesis, my love. New coat?” Angeal asked, teasingly.

“How did you know!” Genesis said, placing a hand against his own chest with a wink.

“A wild guess.” Angeal replied before they kissed.

Kissing Genesis was like kissing an inferno. Genesis always kissed like a man starved, like a fire dying for oxygen. Genesis never limited himself to one kiss either. He would keep stealing kisses until he got his fill. Angeal, on the other hand, had been told he kissed like nothing else mattered. He demanded the other person’s full attention, and refused to let them think of anything else. Eventually, they pulled away and Genesis dropped into the seat in front of Angeal’s desk.

“So, I assume you got Seph’s text?” Genesis asked.

Angeal blinked rapidly before shaking his head and coming back to himself.

“Ahem, yes, I did.” Angeal said as Genesis smirked.

“What do you think of our dear Seph taking a new young man to meet his parents?” Genesis asked.

“It’s not like that and you know it.” Angeal rolled his eyes as Genesis’ dramatics.

“Details, details.” Genesis said, waving his hand dismissively.

Angeal leaned on his desk and raised an eyebrow.

“Vincent is still the Head of the Turks. Of course he would want to speak to Cloud. In fact, I was kind of shocked he wasn’t on the landing pad when we got back.” Angeal stated.

“According to what I heard, he was off the grid.” Genesis replied.

“Ah, that explains it. But even still, it’s his case and his job to find out what Hojo was doing under everyone’s nose.” Angeal stated.

Genesis hummed lightly, leaning on the armrest.

“What are you thinking about?” Angeal asked when the silence dragged on a bit too long.

“I find myself thinking about Tseng’s actions again.” Genesis admitted.

“Hm, I have to admit, I keep thinking about it too. He looked like he had seen a ghost.” Angeal said.

The two fell into silence before Angeal PHS rang.

“Hewley.” Angeal answered.

“Angealllll! Cloud and I are back in the apartment! When are you coming home?” Zack’s voice asked from the other end.

“You have Cloud back already? That didn’t seem very long.” Angeal replied, looking at the clock.

“They gave him back to me, so I just took him and ran! Didn’t want to ask too many questions.” Zack replied.

Genesis snorted and Angeal’s lips twitched into a small smile.

“And Seph?” Angeal asked.

“He stayed with Vincent! I’m not sure why, but I also didn’t ask.” Zack replied.

“In that case, I just finished and Gen is here as well. We will be up shortly.” Angeal stated.

“Great! See you soon, love you!” Zack hung up before Angeal could reply.

“Love you too.” Angeal still said before he put his PHS away.

“Well, you heard the puppy. Time to head home.” Genesis got up and they left Angeal’s office.

—sSs—

Zack smiled at his PHS before turning to Cloud.

“Hear that! Angeal and Gen will be back soon!” Zack stated cheerfully.

“Oh goodie.” Cloud replied, arms crossed as he sat on the couch.

Zack’s smile dipped slightly, but he quickly brightened back up.

“I bet you’re grumpy because you’re hungry! Let me grab you some soup!” Zack said before rushing into the kitchen.

Cloud watched him go before his eyes darted to the door. He was pretty sure he could get out of here before Zack came back, but at the same time, he was a bit hungry and it would be nice to have something in his stomach before he left. His stomach growled loudly, making itself known, and Cloud huffed. A loud ding made him look up as Zack came out of the kitchen with a bowl and spoon.

“Here you go! Enjoy!” Zack put it before him before handing him the spoon.

Cloud raised an eyebrow before looking at the soup. It seemed simple enough with bits of meat and vegetables in a thick hearty broth, and it smelled divine. Sighing, he took the spoon and scooped up some before lightly blowing on it. Just as he was about to take a bite, the door opened.

“We’re back.” Angeal called.

“Angeal! Gen!” Zack rushed over and hugged them, getting a kiss from each as well.

Cloud politely looked away, turning his attention back to his soup to give them some privacy. Angeal noticed this and smiled.

“Ah, having some of my soup? Please let me know how it is.” Angeal stated.

“Sure.” Cloud muttered before he took a bite.

Cloud froze as the taste exploded on his tongue, as his mind flashed with…

A lightly humming voice…

A gentle laugh…

The smell of snow in the air…

“My little Stormcloud” a woman’s voice said before…

“Spikey? Are you ok?” Zack’s voice and a hand on his shoulder broke him out of it.

Cloud’s head snapped up to see them all looking at him with concern. Cloud was going to ask what they were looking at when something fell onto his hand. Cloud looked down and saw it was water. Then realized there were tears rolling down his cheeks.

“Eh?” Cloud mumbled as he reached up to wipe them away, embarrassed.

“Is my food that bad? I’ve never made someone cry before.” Angeal asked worriedly.

“No, no it’s… it’s good. Really good. I just… it reminded me of someone… What… What kind of soup is this?” Cloud asked after pulling the spoon from his mouth and putting it down, not sure if he wanted more if it was going to make him cry.

“Ah, I got it out of an old recipe book Gen gave me. It’s from a small town at the base of Mt. Nibel. Nibelheim I believe?” Angeal stated.

Cloud swallowed and nodded.

“It’s good. A bit more potato and it would be… perfect.” Cloud whispered.

“I see, I will have to keep that in mind.” Angeal said softly.

Cloud nodded as he reached for the spoon again and took another bite. Thankfully, there were no more flashes of memory and he really was hungry, so he ate the soup while the three of them stared at him. As he scraped the last of the soup from the bowl, Cloud put it back down and nodded his head.

“Thank you. That was… very good.” Cloud said quietly.

“You are welcome. Happy you enjoyed it.” Angeal took the bowl and spoon before heading for the kitchen.

“Spikey, do you feel like changing? Maybe into something comfier?” Zack asked gently as he settled next to Cloud on the couch.

“I’m fine. These clothes feel familiar to me.” Cloud muttered.

Zack and Genesis shared a look, but Zack just nodded. Zack turned to Genesis and smiled.

“New coat?” Zack asked.

“But of course. I am pleased my tailor had one ready and waiting for me.” Genesis said, showing it off.

“Well, you spend enough gil at his store, so I would hope he would have one.” Zack stated, leaning against Cloud’s arm.

“I told you before, puppy, finding a good tailor is like finding a needle in a haystack. Once you find one you like, you treasure them. Gil is no object.” Genesis stated.

Cloud raised an eyebrow as Angeal stepped back into the living room.

“Is a coat really that important?” Cloud asked, curiously.

Genesis turned to him with a dramatic gasp.

“But of course it is, little bird! My coat is multifunctional! Why, it's practically a part of my brand!” Genesis explained.

“Not your little bird.” Cloud grumbled.

“Hush now. Let me explain the importance of a good coat. Behold.” Genesis opened the one side and Cloud made note of a long pocket containing various Materia.

He was, admittedly, impressed by the variety. He saw everything from a mastered Firaga to a summoning materia he didn’t recognize immediately. Then he wondered why he knew what a summoning materia looked like before shaking his head. 

“On one side, my supply of Materia, all ready to go with a single flip of a buckle!” Genesis explained.

He then let that drop and opened the other side.

“And this side is my collection of Ethers, Potions and Antidotes. All, also ready and available for whenever I need them.” Genesis pointed.

Genesis dropped that side and held up his left sleeve.

“Now, up my left sleeve? My rapier.” Genesis waved his hand and his rapier appeared.

Another wave and it disappeared before Genesis held out his right sleeve.

“And my right sleeve?” Genesis waved his right hand and a pen appeared.

“A… pen?” Cloud asked, eyebrow raised.

“For signing autographs. You never know when you will meet a fan.” Genesis winked as the pen disappeared.

“So your jacket is just a really expensive magician’s coat?” Cloud asked.

Genesis’ mouth dropped in shock as Zack and Angeal quickly looked away, trying to hide their smiles.

“HOW DARE YOU! DO YOU HAVE-” As Genesis started to yell, the door opened and Sephiroth was standing there.

He paused in the doorway, looking confused.

“Should I come back later?” Sephiroth asked.

“No, dear heart, it’s not you.” Genesis said, glaring at Cloud, who looked unimpressed.

“Gen was showing Cloud his new coat.” Zack explained.

Sephiroth looked at Genesis as he stepped inside and closed the door.

“It looks very nice.” Sephiroth stated.

Genesis immediately turned to him.

“Thank you, Sephiroth. At least SOMEONE here appreciates it!” Genesis shot Cloud a dark look, who rolled his eyes in annoyance.

“Now that we are all home, I can heat up the whole pot of soup.” Angeal stated.

“Do we have any of that fancy bread left?” Zack asked excitedly.

“I believe so, let me check.” Angeal said.

“I am having a glass of wine after this horrid day. Who is joining me?” Genesis asked.

“I’ll have a glass, thank you. Especially if we have any of that red you opened yesterday.” Sephiroth said.

Cloud watched as the group started to talk among themselves, seemingly forgetting that Cloud was even there. It was odd to see them all interact in their own territory, together and carefree, not bothered by an outsider among them. As their voices began to blend together, becoming background noise in Cloud’s ears, Cloud found his eyes drooping. Before long, he was asleep.

—sSs—

“Hey Spikey, do you want-” Zack cut himself off when he turned and found Cloud’s eyes closed and his face relaxed with sleep.

“Oh dear. It seems our little bird fell asleep.” Genesis said.

“He’s probably exhausted. Zack, put him to bed, will you?” Sephiroth asked.

“Right!” Zack said brightly.

Zack was careful as he scooped Cloud up and headed for the guest room.

“Come on, Spikey. Bed time.” Zack said gently.

Cloud mumbled something and Zack leaned in curiously.

“Aerith…” Cloud muttered.

Aerith? Zack froze in the hallway, his brain immediately screeching to a halt. How did Cloud know Aerith? Better yet, how did Cloud know Aerith enough to call for her in his sleep? Zack’s brow furrowed before he pushed open the door to the guest room. He placed Cloud on the bed, took off his boots and belt before sliding him under the covers. Once he was sure Cloud was tucked in, he left. His frown caught Genesis’ attention when he returned to the living room.

”Puppy, are you alright?” Genesis called worriedly.

Zack looked up and then shook his head. Immediately, Genesis moved to his side.

“What happened? Did he hurt you?” Genesis demanded, cupping his chin worriedly.

Sephiroth and Angeal immediately peeked their heads out of the kitchen worriedly.

“No, no, he just…” Zack frowned.

“He just?” Genesis pressed.

Zack looked at him.

“He called for Aerith.”

—sSs—

Tseng sighed as his PHS went off. It was Vincent, giving the all clear to come back.

“Thank Gaia.” he whispered.

It had taken everything in Tseng, every ounce of cunning and planning to keep Rufus from storming his way to the Turks’ office and demanding to see Cloud. Tseng had managed to convince Rufus to wait until tomorrow to ask for him, but that didn’t leave a lot of time. Less than 12 hours at this point and that was hoping Rufus actually waited until the sun came up.

“Welcome back.” Vincent said, sitting behind his desk, his eye scanning the folder before him.

“I hope your talk went well.” Tseng said, heading for the coffee machine.

“It did, actually. Cloud is a very interesting young man.” Vincent stated.

Tseng raised an eyebrow as he grabbed his cup and headed back to his desk.

“That is a curious statement coming from you, Boss.” Tseng replied.

Vincent lowered his folder.

“And how is President Shinra? I am assuming he took the news well considering he didn’t come down here, guns blazing and making demands.” Vincent said.

“He was less than pleased, but agreed to wait until tomorrow.” Tseng replied.

“Oh? And how did you manage that?” Vincent asked curiously.

Tseng just shot him a look and Vincent just nodded his head.

“I will keep my questions to myself then.” Vincent turned back to his folder.

“Thank you.” Tseng replied.

The two worked in silence for a while before Vincent sighed.

“Alright, that’s enough for now. Go home, Tseng and tell everyone else to go as well.” Vincent demanded.

“Boss?” Tseng asked, confused.

This certainly wouldn’t be the first time they had worked all night on a case. That’s just what Turks did after all. To be let go early, when they didn’t have all the answers, was… unusual.

“It’s been a long day and everyone is exhausted. I will take it from here.” Vincent said.

Tseng stared at him, trying to find something in his face, but eventually, he nodded.

“Very well, Boss. Good night.” Tseng bowed and left.

Vincent watched him go. As soon as Tseng was gone, Vincent stood up and moved to a small cabinet. He grabbed a glass and a bottle and poured himself a stiff drink before settling at his desk again. Staring at the folder before him, he pulled another folder from his desk and opened it. Pulling some data from that folder, he compared it to the data in the first folder and frowned.

“Damnit.”

—sSs—

Aerith hummed as she walked into the church bright and early the next morning. The basket she carried swayed as she walked along, her humming echoing throughout the empty building before she knelt down at the flower bed.

“Good morning everyone!” she said brightly.

The flowers didn’t reply, but the breeze that played with her hair was all the answer she needed. She giggled before she got started checking the soil and cleaning out the dead leaves. As she worked, a shadow fell over her and she turned sharply, startled.

“Oh! Vincent! Good morning!” she said with a smile.

“Good morning, Aerith.” the man dressed in black and red said softly.

Aerith watched as Vincent moved over to one of the pews and sat down before she went back to her flowers. Vincent was an odd man, but nice enough if you asked Aerith. She had found him, unconscious, just outside the church a few days ago and she had taken the time to care for him until he finally woke up. He seemed a bit weak and disoriented when he first opened his eyes, but he had been doing better every day since.

“I have some granola bars in my basket for you! Please, help yourself!” she said over her shoulder.

“Thank you, but I am fine.” he replied.

“If you say so!” she stated.

She made a mental note to “accidentally” leave them behind. Vincent was odd about eating around her, so she tried to leave food behind for him to eat when she left. As she tended to her flowers, she could feel Vincent’s eyes on her. Vincent often watched her as she worked, saying very little unless she spoke to him first. Aerith had noticed that when he would stare at her with the saddest eyes, almost as if he was mourning her for some reason. Aerith was broken out of her thoughts when he spoke.

“Aerith, I may need to leave for a little while.” Vincent suddenly stated.

Aerith blinked, startled.

“Oh? Why’s that?” Aerith asked.

“Now that my energy is back, I need to look for someone.” Vincent replied.

Aerith stood up, dusted off her hands on her skirt and walked over to him. Vincent watched her as she stood before him.

“A friend?” she asked curiously.

“Something like that.” Vincent stated.

“Then let me come with you! I can help you find your friend.” Aerith said, but Vincent was already shaking his head.

“Unfortunately, that is not an option. I am not even sure where he might be, so I will need to travel far and wide to find him.” Vincent stated.

Aerith pouted, feeling a little sad.

“Oh… so when will I see you again?” she asked.

Vincent stood up and patted her on head gently.

“I will try to return soon. Just stay safe while I am gone, alright?” he said.

Aerith nodded slowly, sad to see him go, but if this was so important, she didn’t want to get in the way.

“Ok, I understand. Bye Vincent. Come back soon!” she said as he turned and walked towards the door.

“Good bye, Aerith.” he replied and then he was gone.

Aerith stared at the door before she sighed and grabbed her basket. The two granola bars sat at the bottom, so she grabbed one and opened it. Taking a bite, she sat down in the pew and chewed thoughtfully.

“It’s already lonely.” she muttered.

Chapter Text

Cloud slowly opened his eyes and then sighed deeply. He hadn’t meant to fall asleep, but it seemed his body had made the decision for him. Slowly, he sat up, rubbing his eye and trying to figure out what his next steps were. The door made that choice for him. More specifically the person who slammed it open and started yelling.

“GOOD MORNING, CLOUD!” Zack yelled as he stepped inside.

Cloud jumped out of bed, his brain looking for a weapon as his hand reached for a lamp before he finally realized he wasn’t under attack. It was just Zack being very loud too early in the morning. Cloud groaned and buried his face in a pillow.

“Zack. Too loud.” Cloud whined.

“Oops, sorry.” Zack said with a chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck.

“I told you he wouldn’t want to be woken up that way.” Angeal said from over Zack’s shoulder.

“Aw, but!” Zack tried, but Angeal just pushed him out of the way gently.

“Breakfast is ready.” Angeal said.

Cloud looked up and blinked.

“Breakfast?” he said eagerly.

Breakfast turned out to be porridge with some fruit, milk with honey and the nectar of the gods, coffee. Cloud grabbed a mug of coffee and went to sip it, only for the mug to be taken out of his hand.

“I think not.” Angeal said, taking it for himself.

“Hey!” Cloud yelled.

“You are too young for coffee.” Angeal stated as he sat down.

“I’m at least 20!… I think!” Cloud replied sharply.

“Hey, don’t worry about that. He won’t let me have any either.” Zack whispered, leaning in.

“That’s because I don’t think anyone could handle you with caffeine.” Genesis said as he walked in and pressed a kiss to Angeal’s cheek.

“I’ve had caffeine before!” Zack whined as Genesis pressed a kiss to his cheek next.

“And as the General that was on that mission with you. Never. Again.” Sephiroth stated as he entered the kitchen next.

“I promise you, I can have caffeine. In fact, I’d probably behave better if I had it.” Cloud said, still looking at Angeal.

Angeal sighed and handed him his mug back. 

“Thank you.” Cloud said before taking a sip.

They ate in silence for a little before Cloud finally spoke.

“So… what happens to me today? I am assuming you all have work?” Cloud asked.

The four men blinked and then looked at each other.

“You know… I have no idea.” Zack said slowly.

“I have a meeting with the board this morning.” Sephiroth stated.

“I am set for a mission just outside Midgar. I should be home tonight but…” Genesis said, crossing his arms.

“Zack and I agreed to train some new SOLDIERs today.” Angeal said as Zack nodded.

“And I planned on visiting a friend after that.” Zack admitted.

Cloud raised an eyebrow as he pushed away the half eaten bowl of porridge.

“So unless you all trust me to stay here and not try to leave or destroy your stuff, where am I supposed to go?” Cloud asked before sipping his coffee.

The four men looked at each other again, worried, before Zack brightened up.

“I got it!” Zack yelled.

Cloud suddenly had a bad feeling.

—sSs—

“WE ARE NOT A BABYSITTING SERVICE!” Reno yelled.

Zack pouted as Angeal and Cloud stood behind him, watching in amusement.

“But, someone has to!” Zack yelled back.

Reno crossed his arms and glared.

“Do I look like a 16 year old girl looking for a part time job?” Reno demanded, sharply.

Zack looked at him up and down.

“I mean…?” Zack said slowly.

Reno looked like he was about to slam the door shut in their faces when there was a light cough. They all turned to see Vincent standing behind Reno.

“Cloud, Angeal, Zack, good morning. I was actually just about to call for you all.” Vincent said.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed. He didn’t know why, but he could tell the man was tired. Had he been up all night? His suit also seemed to be the same as the one from yesterday. Though, Angeal and Zack didn’t seem to notice. Instead, Angeal focused on his words.

“Good morning, Vincent. You were going to call for us? Why?” Angeal demanded.

“I needed to speak with Cloud again. We have finished going through more of the files and I just wanted some clarification.” Vincent replied.

Cloud looked a little nervous and shifted slightly.

“I couldn’t even help you yesterday. What makes you think I can help you today?” Cloud asked.

Vincent just smiled.

“I believe you can. Now, would you like to come in?” Vincent asked.

“Wait, Big Boss, you can’t be serious! Are we actually-” Reno cut himself off when Vincent glanced at him.

Reno swallowed and rubbed the back of his neck nervously.

“Right, umm come in.” Reno muttered.

Cloud looked at Angeal and Zack with worry.

“It’s ok, Cloud! We’ll be right back after work! Promise!” Zack said brightly.

“I’m not a little kid!” Cloud yelled, but Zack and Angeal were already walking away.

Cloud huffed before looking at Vincent again.

“So what did you want to ask me?” Cloud asked as he walked inside.

He paused in the doorway, eying the people he saw. Besides Reno and Vincent, there were two others, who were also staring back at him.

“Cloud, this is Rude and Tseng.” Vincent introduced.

“Good morning.” Tseng said as Rude just gave him a nod as he shoved something in a nearby desk drawer.

“Morning.” Cloud replied stiffly.

Again, Cloud grabbed the chair and placed it against the wall, crossing his arms as he sat down. The Turks noticed this, but said nothing as Vincent sat at his desk.

“Going over the files, Hojo (Cloud twitched at the name) made a few notes. I am going to read them off to you and you tell me what you remember, alright?” Vincent said, putting out his notebook.

“Sure…” Cloud replied uncertainty.

“Alright. Let’s begin with “meteor”.” Vincent said.

Cloud frowned deeply.

“End of the world. The death of all humanity.” Cloud replied.

Tseng raised an eyebrow while Reno and Rude shared a look.

“Alright, what about “Avalanche”?” Vincent asked.

“Fighters. Dreamers. Protectors of the planet. Doomed to fail.” Cloud stated, his eyes becoming slightly glassy.

“Interesting. Now, I have a list of names here. Tell me who they are to you. Yuffie.” Vincent stated.

“Ninja. Funny. Cheerful. Little sister.” Cloud replied, his voice slowly becoming monotone.

Tseng frowned and looked at Vincent, but no one said anything.

“Interesting. What about Red XIII?” Vincent asked.

“Fire. Warmth. A kind soul. Protector.” Cloud stated.

“Barret?” Vincent asked.

“Strong. Kind. Father. Marlene.” Cloud muttered, his head starting to sway.

“Cait Sith?” Vincent asked.

“Bright lights. Joy. Fortune.” Cloud mumbled.

“Cid?” Vincent asked.

“Pilot. Loud. Smart. Highwind.” Cloud replied, his hands dropping into his lap.

“Tifa?” Vincent asked.

“Home. Safety. Miss her. Wished I was better for her.” Cloud mumbled.

Vincent paused, his eyes landing on the last name. He seemed to hesitate slightly before he spoke.

“Sephiroth.” Vincent said.

“Monster. Murderer. End of the world. The Calamity.” Cloud stated.

“I think that’s enough.” Vincent said, but Cloud slowly lifted his head.

His eyes were green.

“She’s coming.” Cloud said, his voice empty.

The Turks froze, startled.

“Who is coming?” Vincent demanded, standing up.

Cloud slowly tilted his head to the side.

“Mother. She is still alive. She still breathes. Her son will find her and bring about the end of days. The son will give her the world on a platter. It is his destiny.” Cloud said.

Vincent swallowed, his heart hammering in his chest.

“And who is this ‘Mother’ you are talking about?” Vincent demanded.

Cloud stared him down, his green eyes glowing.

“Jenova.”

—sSs—

Meanwhile, in another place, another universe, Tifa wiped down the bar, her eyes following the cloth as she focused on her task. In the background, she faintly heard the kids playing in the yard, Marlene’s laughter a balm on her bruised soul, but her stomach still churned with worry. It had been days since she heard from Cloud and so far, it looked like she wasn’t going to hear from him today either. When she was sure every single stain was gone and the bartop was as clean as it could be, she sighed and flipped the cloth over her shoulder.

“Done…” she muttered.

Looking towards the door, she stared for a moment before sighing and shaking her head. She turned away, preparing herself to head for the backroom when the doors opened.

“Cloud, is that-! Oh… Barret.” Tifa’s excitement turned to quiet sorrow when she didn’t see blonde spikes.

“Damn, not even happy to see me?” Barret said, frowning.

Tifa’s lips twitched.

“Sorry, Barret, I was just… expecting you to come back with Cloud.” she muttered sadly.

Barret sighed as he walked over to stand before the bar top.

“I’m sorry, Tifa, but…” Barret shook his head.

“Nothing?” she whispered.

Barret just looked away. Tifa swallowed hard, her eyes watering. Barret frowned as Cid walked in, grumbling under his breath.

“Maybe… maybe Reno was wrong? Maybe they went to a different lab by accident?” Tifa asked, looking between them.

Cid and Barret shared a look and she felt her heart drop.

“Tifa, we found Fenrir.” Cid said slowly.

Tifa slumped against the wall, her eyes wide. She knew, as they all did, that Cloud would die before leaving his beloved bike behind. That was confirmation enough that Cloud had been there.

“What about his Fusion Sword?” she asked, quietly.

“Not in the compartments. So he must have taken it with him, but…” Cid shook his head.

Tifa looked at the floor, her mind spiraling.

“He went with Vincent. Together, they should have been fine.” Tifa said slowly.

“We couldn’t find hide nor hair of Vincent either, but he is a Turk.” Cid said with a shrug.

Tifa’s eyes filled with tears and she covered her mouth, trying not to cry, but it was so fucking hard.

“I-I just got him back… h-he promised! He said he wouldn’t…!” Tifa whimpered.

Barret moved around the bar and hugged her tightly as she sobbed. She clung to him, unable to stay strong a moment longer. Cloud had promised her! Had sworn he wouldn’t run off again after what happened during the Geostigma and yet! She sobbed as Barret stroked her hair.

“Tifa, we really don’t think Cloud ran off and, let’s be honest, Vincent wouldn’t have let him either. I think something worse happened.” Cid stated as he sat at the bartop.

Tifa sniffled as she pulled back.

“Worse?” she asked.

Cid sighed deeply.

“The smell of mako was heavy and we didn’t even go inside. Maybe they went inside and got disoriented from the smell. We all know that spikey blonde twink is pretty bad when it comes to mako.” Cid said.

“But what about Vincent? He would have gotten Cloud out in that case.” Tifa asked, looking between them.

“Who knows. But we are going to need backup if we want to get in there and make sure.” Cid said.

Tifa slowly nodded.

“What’s the plan?” she asked.

“We reach out to Rufus Fucking Shinra and tell him to get us backup! It’s his fault and he’s going to help us fix it!” Barret said boldly.

“There’s a good chance Shinra has some kind of suit we can use. If not, we’ll make some. If they are in there, we will find them.” Cid agreed.

With a plan starting to form, Tifa felt a little better, but still, all she could hope was that Cloud and Vincent were ok.

—sSs—

Vincent was not doing ok. In fact, he was having a very bad time overall. Vincent sighed as he slipped out of the slums, his eyes on the sky. He still felt very weak and slightly off balance, but Chaos was whispering that they needed to go. And Vincent was willing to listen considering he had woken up in a world that didn’t make any sense. A world that shouldn’t exist, but did. Pausing to lean against a wall, he rubbed his forehead as he thought over what happened to him.

After crawling out of the mako pool in the middle of nowhere, he had no memory of what happened to him from there, just a vague memory of Chaos taking over, of flying and then falling. When he had woken up the second time, it was to dear Aerith leaning over him, asking if he was alright. Vincent had almost been convinced he had finally, actually died until Aerith had confirmed he was very much alive and that, no, they had never met before.

From there, he had gone searching and what he found was confusing. Midgar still existed, Shinra still existed. Hell, Sephiroth still existed as a First Class SOLDIER! It was as if someone hit rewind on the world he remembered and put it back to a point he hadn’t been awake for. A world where Sephiroth hadn’t gone mad and Shinra still continued to thrive. Where Aerith hadn’t sacrificed herself to save everyone. It was strange and Vincent had kept waiting to wake up from this dream, but so far, he hadn’t woken up, which meant this world was real and that meant Vincent had been given a second chance. A chance to make up for everything he had failed to do. Starting with finding Jenova and getting rid of her. 

That, however, meant leaving Aerith behind. It was hard to leave her when all he wanted to do was stay and protect her, but there were things he had to do and she was so young, not physically or emotionally ready for the things he was going to have to deal with.

“It will be worth it.” Vincent muttered before he continued on.

He did have to wonder where Cloud was, but if he knew Cloud, the man was already on his way to find Jenova himself, so perhaps Vincent would meet him there. Focusing on the path ahead, he made his way towards Nibelheim.

—sSs—

Cloud’s eyes fluttered open and he groaned, reaching up to rub his forehead.

“What happened?” he muttered.

“Good morning again.” Vincent said.

Cloud blinked rapidly and then sat up quickly, only to hiss and lay back down, curling up slightly as his head began to pound violently. He was laying on a rather nice couch, a suit jacket laying over him like a blanket.  

“What happened? And why does my head hurt?” Cloud asked slowly.

Vincent, sitting next to him, lowered his newspaper and Cloud noted his jacket was missing.

“It seems I pushed you too hard and you passed out. I apologize for that.” Vincent stated.

Cloud stared at him, confused. He vaguely remembered Vincent asking him some words, but that whole memory was blurry and he couldn’t remember anything clearly.

“Oh. Did I answer all your questions then?” Cloud asked.

“You did.” Vincent agreed slowly.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed.

“You’re lying.” Cloud muttered.

Vincent paused, looking at Cloud.

“Am I?” Vincent asked.

“Yes, I can tell.” Cloud replied.

“And how can you do that?” Vincent pressed.

“I’m not sure, but I can tell.” Cloud stated.

Vincent and Cloud stared at each other in silence before there was a sharp banging on the door that made them both turn.

“Valentine! Open this door right now!” a loud voice called.

Vincent closed his eye and seemed to sigh.

“I was hoping for more time.” Vincent whispered.

“Who is that?” Cloud asked, confused.

Vincent hummed and turned to Tseng.

“Please let President Shinra in before he breaks down the door and makes me pay for it.” Vincent commanded.

“Yes Boss.” Tseng said before walking over to the door and opening it.

Rufus came storming in, Darkstar at his heels, his white coat and pants fluttering in the wind he made.

“I have been calling you all morning, where the hell-” Rufus’ rant was cut off sharply when Cloud sat up and stared at him.

Rufus sucked in a sharp breath, staring wide eyed. Cloud stared back at him, confused.

“President Shinra, good morning. I apologize for not seeing your calls, but as you can see, I was a bit preoccupied.” Vincent finally said.

Rufus’ eyes darted to Vincent before he seemed to come back to himself. Rufus straightened up and nodded.

“I see. Very well, I will let this slide this time. But don’t ignore me again.” Rufus replied.

“Of course. I would never.” Vincent agreed easily.

Rufus’ eyes landed on Cloud again and there was something in his face that Cloud didn’t fully understand. Rufus seemed… happy? To see him. Almost excited if Cloud was going to put a name to it.

“Cloud.” Rufus called.

Cloud eyed him warily before looking at Vincent.

“Who… is this?” Cloud asked slowly.

Rufus’ face fell and he swallowed. Darkstar looked between Rufus and Cloud before deciding to move closer. He walked over to where Cloud was laying, but Cloud’s immediate reaction was to quickly scramble over the back of the couch and put the couch between himself and Darkstar, who stopped, whining.

“Cloud, it’s alright. Darkstar won’t harm you.” Vincent said calmly.

“Yeahhh, I’d rather not take the chance, thanks.” Cloud replied, keeping his eyes trained on Darkstar.

For some strange reason, he had a very clear memory of this creature biting him before. So yeah, he didn’t want him anywhere close.

“Darkstar, heel.” Rufus demanded.

Darkstar whimpered, but sat down and didn’t move any closer, his head lowered sadly. Cloud still eyed him warily as Rufus moved a bit closer.

“Cloud, do you know who I am?” Rufus asked quietly, pressing a hand to his chest.

Cloud stared at him.

“Rufus Shinra?” Cloud replied.

Rufus nodded, but seemed to be waiting for him to say more. Cloud licked his lips, nervously.

“I feel like I am missing something here.” Cloud admitted.

Rufus’ shoulders seem to slump a little.

“You really… don’t remember me?” Rufus asked.

“To be honest, I don’t remember a lot of anything.” Cloud said, crossing his arms.

Rufus let out a breath.

“Well, I am your older brother. We were raised together.” Rufus stated.

Cloud stared at him.

“Right. The heir and the spare. I heard the story.” Cloud said.

Rufus’ eyes shot to Vincent, angrily.

“Is that what you told him!” Rufus demanded hotly.

“I told him the truth.” Vincent stated seriously.

“He was never the spare! He was my little brother!” Rufus snapped.

Cloud watched them argue back and forth. Well, it wasn’t much of an argument. Rufus was arguing, but Vincent was calm, simply stating facts. Even going so far as to grab his jacket from the couch where Cloud had left it and put it back on. Eventually, Cloud cut in.

“So, what happened to me?” Cloud asked.

Vincent and Rufus turned to him, apparently startled before Rufus coughed into his fist and looked pointedly at Tseng. Tseng rolled over a chair for him and he sat down.

“Let us start at the beginning then.” Rufus said as he sat down, Darkstar moving to sit next to him.

Cloud raised an eyebrow before he slowly moved around the couch and sat down now that Darkstar was farther away. He still sat on the edge of his seat just in case.

“That would be nice.” Cloud stated.

Rufus nodded as he reached over to pet Darkstar.

“You and I are half brothers, we both have the same father.” Rufus started.

Cloud hummed lightly.

“Our father wasn’t exactly… the most upstanding citizen, but when you have money and power, you don’t have to be.” Rufus stated.

“When did you learn about me?” Cloud asked.

“When you were 2 and I was 5. One day, Father just came home with you and said you were my new little brother. We were raised together from there.” Rufus stated.

Cloud eyed him.

“That’s a nice little story you are telling me, but Vincent already told me what I really was. The spare. The person kept alive to make sure you survived to take over the company.” Cloud stated, eyebrow raised.

Rufus’ brow furrowed.

“I won’t argue with you there. That is what Father saw you as, but that was never who you were to me.” Rufus replied.

“So you weren’t bothered by the fact you now had a competitor for your heirship?” Cloud demanded.

“I won’t sit here and say it was easy. Father pitted us against each other, constantly reminding me that I could very easily be replaced. But you were also the only family I truly had. The only family I was allowed to have.” Rufus replied.

Rufus pulled out his wallet before he opened it and pulled out a small photo. He looked at it before handing it over. It was a picture of 5 year old Rufus holding 2 year old Cloud on his lap with a large smile. Cloud stared at it before looking away and handing the photo back.

“I don’t… I’m sorry, but none of this sounds familiar.” Cloud said slowly.

Rufus nodded slowly as he put the photo back in his wallet before putting it away.

“Tseng has explained to me about the mako poisoning that you are suffering from. I… I would be happy to show you some more pictures and videos if you think that will help you.” Rufus offered.

Cloud nodded, though he seemed uncertain.

“I would appreciate that. I found certain things sometimes trigger a memory. Words, food, things like that. So maybe I just need something more physical.” Cloud admitted.

“Food?” Vincent asked, curiously.

“Angeal made soup last night and when I ate it, I saw… a woman? Anyway, he said it was from a town near Mt. Nibel.” Cloud replied.

“Ah. Most likely Nibelheim.” Vincent nodded.

“Why do you say that?” Cloud asked.

Vincent and Rufus shared a look.

“You were born in Nibelheim. Your mother, Claudia, was from there.” Vincent said.

At the name “Claudia” Cloud hissed and grabbed his head. Flashes of…

Soft blue eyes filled with warmth…

A soft humming voice…

A small little house with a slight draft in the winter…

Fire…

Fire…

FIRE…

“Cloud!” Cloud jerked back, gasping.

Vincent was kneeling before him, his body physically between Cloud and Rufus. Cloud reacted badly to someone being too close. His foot shot out and slammed into Vincent’s chest, sending him flying. Vincent flew back before landing on the floor with a gasp. Darkstar just barely got out of the way so as not to get crushed.

“Boss!” Tseng, Rude, and Reno rushed forward.

Tseng moved between Vincent/Rufus and Cloud, gun out and pointing at Cloud. Reno knelt by Vincent’s side, trying to help him get his breathing under control while Rude grabbed Rufus and moved him closer to the door for safety. Darkstar got to his feet and started to growl, ready to lunge if given the order. Meanwhile Cloud stumbled to his feet, gripping his head as he gasped. It seemed as though Cloud was trapped in a memory.

“Fire! Fire! There’s fire! Mama!” Cloud cried out.

“What is happening!” Rufus demanded.

“He’s having a flashback. Just stay back, Mr. President. He can become aggressive during them.” Rude replied, his arm out to keep Rufus from going around him.

Rufus watched helplessly as Cloud stumbled back into a wall and slid to the floor, curling into himself. He was trembling violently.

“Mama, there’s fire! Fire! You have to get out! Get out!” Cloud sobbed before he seemed to slump.

They waited to see what would happen, but when nothing did, Reno spoke.

“I think he passed out.” Reno said as Vincent slowly sat up, rubbing his chest.

Tseng slowly lowered his gun before turning to Vincent.

“How did he know about the fire?” Tseng asked.

“I am not sure. He would have been too young to remember it himself.” Vincent stated as Reno helped him get to his feet.

“Cloud’s mother dying in a fire was never discussed after he came to live with us. Someone must have told him.” Rufus said angrily as Darkstar finally stopped growling.

“Hojo? Perhaps?” Tseng asked as he moved closer to Cloud.

“But why would he know about it?” Rude asked.

“It doesn’t matter. What matters now is we need to get him checked out.” Rufus moved around Rude’s arm.

“Yeahhh, sending him to the med bay is asking for another escape attempt or more doctors getting thrown around like toys.” Reno replied.

Vincent sighed.

“Call Zack. Tell him to come immediately.” Vincent demanded.

Tseng pulled out his PHS and hit Zack’s number.

Chapter Text

“Alright, looking good everyone! Just ten more!” Zack said cheerfully.

The group of Thirds groaned, but continued to do their squats while Zack led the charge. Angeal watched over them, eyes scanning the group when Zack’s PHS went off. Zack pulled it out and paused, confused.

“You guys keep going, I have to take this.” Zack called before he moved away, ignoring their answering groans.

Angeal drifted over, curious, but kept his eyes on the group.

“Hey Tseng, what’s up?” Zack said, answering the PHS.

His smile quickly died as he listened to what Tseng was saying.

“He had an episode?” Zack said worriedly.

Angeal shot Zack a concerned look.

“I see, yeah I can be right there. Yeah, see you soon.” Zack hung up and looked at Angeal with worry.

“Cloud had another flashback and kicked Vincent. Tseng needs me to come help them.” Zack said quickly.

“Then go, I have it under control here.” Angeal replied.

Zack nodded and quickly headed for the door as Angeal took over the group. Zack rushed to the elevator and bounced on the ball of his feet as he watched the number count down. The second the doors opened, he shuffled inside and hit the floor of the Turks office. It took wayyy too long in Zack’s opinion to get there, but when he did, he knocked quickly.

“Zack.” Tseng said when he answered the door and if he sounded relieved, Zack didn’t blame him.

“Is everyone ok?” Zack asked as he rushed inside.

“A little bruised, but fine.” Vincent said from his seat behind his desk, an icepack on his chest.

“Where’s Cloud?” Zack asked.

Everyone looked to one wall, where Cloud was still curled up.

“You guys didn’t move him? Why?” Zack asked, confused and a little outraged.

“No offense, but so far, he’s attacked four people. Kind of can’t blame us.” Reno replied.

“Oh. Makes sense when you put it that way.” Zack muttered before he walked over and knelt down.

“Spikey? Hey Spikey, it’s Zack.” Zack called gently, reaching out to lightly touch his shoulder.

Cloud flinched and one eye shot open, terrified.

“Z-Zack?” Cloud whispered.

“Heyyy there, Spikey.” Zack said with a smile.

Cloud’s eye darted around.

“T-There was fire.” he whispered.

“Fire, huh? Well, there’s no fire here. So you don’t have to be afraid.” Zack replied.

Cloud shook his head, his eyes watery.

“My ma. She-She was burning. She was screaming. I could hear her.” Cloud whispered.

And Zack, well he had no idea what to say to that. He glanced at the others, but they said nothing and Zack knew he was on his own. Zack sighed and reached out to wrap an arm around Cloud’s shoulders.

“It’s ok, Spikey. It’s ok. No one is on fire. There is no screaming. You’re safe.” Zack said gently.

Cloud stared at him, blinking before he slowly started to uncurl.

“No fire?” Cloud mumbled.

“None. I promise.” Zack replied.

Cloud looked around, but when he saw nothing burning, he seemed to relax and nod to himself.

“No fire, no screaming. Nibelheim isn’t burning.” Cloud mumbled, dazed.

Zack raised an eyebrow, but just took the chance to rub Cloud’s shoulder until he finally seemed to calm. Cloud slumped against him, but stayed awake. Zack turned to Vincent.

“Do you mind if I take him back to the apartment?” Zack asked.

“I thought you were helping with training!” Reno snapped.

“Angeal can take it from here.” Zack replied.

“I believe that would be a good idea.” Vincent cut in before Reno could say anything more.

Reno huffed and crossed his arms. Zack nodded and gently helped Cloud to his feet.

“Come on, buddy. Let’s get you home.” Zack muttered as he led Cloud out of the room with an arm around his shoulders.

Cloud said nothing, his eyes dazed. As soon as Zack and Cloud were gone, Rufus and Darkstar left the hidden side room they had been waiting in.

“That was…” Rufus trailed off.

“Do you understand now why I asked for you to wait, Mr. President?” Tseng asked.

“Yes, yes, I get it now, but what are we going to do?” Rufus demanded.

“There is not much we can do.” Vincent admitted, removing the ice pack from his chest.

“His trauma is deep. We are barely scratching the surface of what he has suffered.” Tseng stated.

“It could get worse?” Rufus whispered.

“Much worse.” Vincent nodded.

—sSs—

Sephiroth’s morning had been absolute shit so far. Listening to board members complain was about as enjoyable as stabbing himself repeatedly in the kidney with a knife. In fact, at this point, he would take the knife over this. As they started another round of arguing, something about urban renovations, Sephiroth’s PHS buzzed. Thankful for a distraction, he peeked at it. Zack’s message was the first thing he saw.

Puppy: Took Cloud to apartment.

Puppy: Had another episode.

Sephiroth raised an eyebrow until Vincent’s message came through next.

Father: Cloud had an episode in the office.

Father: Zack took him back to your apartment.

Sephiroth stood up, cutting off the board members.

“My apologies, but I must go.” Sephiroth said.

He turned and left before they could fight with him on it. In the hallway, he called Vincent.

“Father, what happened?” Sephiroth asked as soon as he answered.

There was a long sigh on the other end.

“I was hoping to speak to you in person. I fear we have more to worry about with Cloud than I originally thought.” Vincent said.

Sephiroth’s brow furrowed.

“How so?” Sephiroth asked.

“I was reviewing some information we found in Hojo’s files with him and his reaction was… concerning.” Vincent said slowly.

“Concerning how?” Sephiroth asked as he pressed the button to the elevator, wishing for it to move faster.

Vincent was silent for a moment before he finally answered.

“He said Jenova was still alive.” Vincent replied.

Static filled Sephiroth’s ears as he entered the elevator and leaned against the wall, thankful that it was empty.

“T-That’s not possible. We destroyed her. You destroyed her.” Sephiroth whispered.

“Sephiroth, you and I know that Hojo could have hidden pieces of her all over the world. That was one reason we were being so careful and thorough. But we never did find the head or body and he refused to say where it was.” Vincent explained.

Sephiroth swallowed hard. Jenova. A name that had once filled him with comfort now felt like a guillotine over his head. When Hojo had been arrested, he had truly gone mad, screaming, yelling and screeching for the whole world to hear. Sephiroth squeezed his eyes shut as those words echoed in his head.

“I CREATED HIM! I GAVE HIM LIFE! I GAVE HIM A PURPOSE! HE WILL RECREATE THIS WORLD! JENOVA IS THE KEY TO EVERYTHING! IN HER IMAGE WE WILL ALL BE REBORN AND HE WILL BE THE NEW GOD!” Hojo’s maniacal laughter made him shiver.

“Sephiroth?” Vincent’s voice cut through his panic and he swallowed.

“I’m here.” Sephiroth whispered.

“I need you to listen to me. I will do everything in my power to protect you. Jenova will not get her hands on my son. That I promise.” Vincent stated seriously.

Sephiroth nodded and let out a breath.

“Thank you, Father.” Sephiroth whispered.

“Of course. Now go home, Sephiroth. Zack will need you.” Vincent replied.

“Alright. Thank you.” Sephiroth said before hanging up.

When he got to his floor, he was swift in unlocking the door.

“Seph!” Zack said brightly.

He was sitting on the couch, Cloud sitting next to him.

“I got your message. Is everything alright?” Sephiroth asked as he closed the door.

Zack shot a concerned look at Cloud, who hadn’t even looked his way since he entered the room.

“Cloud had a flashback and kicked your father. He was really shaken up when I got there.” Zack explained.

Sephiroth raised an eyebrow, startled that his father hadn’t told him about that part, but moved past it. Sephiroth moved to Zack’s side and pressed a kiss to his forehead before he knelt in front of Cloud. Cloud looked at him, his eyes blank.

“Cloud, how are you feeling?” Sephiroth asked gently.

Cloud just gave a slow blink.

“I see. Perhaps you would like to rest?” Sephiroth asked.

“I’m… fine.” Cloud finally muttered.

“Can you tell us what happened?” Sephiroth asked.

Cloud’s brow furrowed.

“My ma’s name… was Claudia. She died… in a fire.” Cloud said slowly.

“I see. I am sorry to hear that.” Sephiroth replied.

“I could… hear her screaming as she burned.” Cloud’s eyes watered as he lowered his head.

Sephiroth placed a hand on his leg and Cloud started to cry. Zack gave him a side hug and the two men waited until Cloud’s tears dried.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t… I didn’t mean to hurt your father. Maybe… maybe I do need to be locked up.” Cloud said miserably.

“Don’t say that! I’m sure he knows you didn’t mean it!” Zack said, looking at Sephiroth who nodded.

“I just… keep hurting people.” Cloud whispered.

“You have reacted to situations you have been put into without your permission. No one can blame you for that.” Sephiroth stated.

The door opened then as Angeal walked in.

“I’m sorry it took me so long.” Angeal put his sword by the front door before walking over.

Angeal pressed a kiss to Zack and Sephiroth’s cheeks before turning to Cloud.

“Are you alright?” Angeal asked.

“I don’t know.” Cloud admitted.

“Let me make some tea. Maybe that will help.” Angeal said, moving towards the kitchen.

“Let me help you.” Sephiroth got up and followed him.

Zack frowned as he watched this before turning back to Cloud to see Cloud staring at him.

“Spikey? What’s wrong?” Zack asked.

“Why are you so nice to me? Why are you bothering with me?” Cloud asked quietly.

Zack blinked a few times.

“Why wouldn’t I?” Zack asked.

Cloud just looked away.

“I just… I’ve caused nothing but trouble.” Cloud mumbled.

Zack frowned and gave him a squeeze.

“No one blames you for what happened, Cloud. You have been through something… I wouldn’t even wish on my worst enemy. You don’t have to feel ashamed.” Zack said seriously.

Cloud just closed his eyes.

—sSs—

“I see.” Angeal mumbled when Sephiroth finished explaining everything.

Sephiroth leaned against the counter, his arms crossed, but Angeal could see how tense he was.

“What do you think?” Sephiroth asked.

“I don’t know what to think, frankly.” Angeal sighed as the kettle started to whistle.

“Genesis hasn’t replied to the message yet, has he?” Sephiroth asked.

“No, not yet, but he did say he would be on a mission, so I am not too concerned.” Angeal admitted as he started to pour the tea.

“I just don’t want him to be in the dark.” Sephiroth said.

“He would be very upset to be left in the dark.” Angeal agreed.

They fell into silence for a moment before Angeal spoke again.

“I think… it would be a good idea for Cloud to stay with us until these flashbacks become less frequent.” Angeal said.

“Why is that?” Sephiroth asked.

“Honestly, we can handle his strength.” Angeal replied.

“That makes sense. We will discuss it with Genesis when he gets back. I am sure he will have a rational take on this.” Sephiroth stated.

—sSs—

“YOU ALL ARE IDIOTS!” Genesis roared to the cowering Seconds.

The group before him cowered in terror under the gaze of the furious First. It didn’t help that Genesis’ new coat was now singed and smoking, making him look even more terrifying.

“W-We’re sorry, sir!” one of them whimpered.

Genesis’ head snapped to him.

“You’re SORRY?! Sorry doesn’t fix my COAT!” he yelled.

To think that his BRAND NEW COAT had been RUINED by a bunch of idiots who didn’t know when to hold their fire when Genesis was in the MIDDLE of the battle. Genesis was about to unleash unholy hell once more when he heard something. Turning his head slightly, he paused.

“Um sir?” one of them started to ask, but Genesis shushed him sharply.

They fell silent, too scared to ignore his order. Genesis tilting his head, his eyes narrowed before he finally realized the sound was coming from his pocket. Huffing, he pulled his PHS out and read the messages popping up there. Zack’s message caused worry to churn in his stomach.

“We are going back.” Genesis stated.

The group looked at each other.

“But sir-” Genesis’ head whipped around with a sharp glare and the group went silent again.

“We. Are. Returning. To. Headquarters.” Genesis hissed.

“Y-Yes sir!” they said, saluting.

“Then get moving!” Genesis roared.

The Seconds scrambled to do what he said as he walked away, leaving them to their work. Genesis sent a message, saying he would be home shortly before he looked over the battlefield again. Thankfully, the fight hadn’t been too bad, but the amount of monsters had been startling, especially so close to Midgar.

“ Infinite in mystery is the gift of the Goddess. ” Genesis mumbled.

“S-Sir?” one of the Seconds called.

Genesis’ jaw clenched before he turned.

“What?” Genesis demanded.

“We are ready to go, Sir, but ummm…” the Second shrank under Genesis’ glare.

“But. What?” Genesis demanded.

“Well, do you want to keep your coat on… because it’s still smoking.” the Second said.

Genesis’ eye twitched violently.

“GET IN THE FUCKING TRUCK!” Genesis roared.

—sSs—

“Gen is on his way back.” Sephiroth said, checking his PHS.

“That’s good.” Angeal nodded as he picked up the cups and moved back to the living room.

Zack glanced up at them with a frown.

“Here, this should make you feel better.” Angeal said, handing Cloud a cup.

Cloud took it, but didn’t drink it.

“Why are you all bothering with me?” Cloud asked.

“Cloud-” Sephiroth started, but Cloud glared at him.

“I’m dangerous! I hurt your father! I should be locked up in the deepest, darkest cell you can find! Not treated like something fragile!” Cloud yelled.

“You are a victim.” Sephiroth replied calmly.

“You don’t even know that!” Cloud slammed the cup on the table.

Thankfully, it was one of those cups made to survive SOLDIER strength, but the Firsts tensed at Cloud’s aggression.

“Come on, Spikey, it’s ok.” Zack tried, but Cloud shoved him away as he got up and stumbled away from the couch.

“Cloud.” Sephiroth said sternly.

“Zack, are you alright?” Angeal asked worriedly.

“I’m ok! But Spikey, you-!” Zack tried again, but Cloud shook his head.

“I’m a MONSTER!” Cloud cut him off.

Silence. All three of the men stared at him as he panted.

“Cloud. You are a victim. You were enhanced against your will.” Angeal said calmly.

“You don’t know that! Maybe-Maybe I went with Hojo! Maybe I asked him to do this to me! You don’t know anything about me!” Cloud snapped.

“You’re right, we don’t.” Angeal agreed.

“Then how can you-” Cloud was cut off.

“Because it doesn’t matter.” Sephiroth stated.

Cloud stared at him, helplessly.

“What do you mean it doesn’t matter?” Cloud asked.

“Cloud, even if you went with Hojo, even if you agreed to his experimentation, it doesn’t matter because you were only 14 when you went missing.” Sephiroth said.

“14…” Cloud mumbled.

“Yes. 8 years ago, Cloud Shinra went missing at 14 years old. Even if you did go with Hojo of your own free will, which there is no evidence for, mind you, you were a minor and couldn’t make those decisions anyway.” Sephiroth explained.

Cloud swallowed and looked at the floor.

“So no matter what, you are a victim, Cloud. One way or another.” Sephiroth finished.

Cloud shuddered and wrapped his arms around himself.

“I just don’t know what he wanted with me. I’m nothing special! I was just the spare to Rufus! Why did he pick me? Why did he experiment on me? I just want to understand!” Cloud asked.

Sephiroth shared a look with Angeal and Zack before he stepped forward.

“Hojo, you will find, does things that no one can understand. Maybe he was angry at the deceased President. Maybe he saw something in you. I do not know, but nothing he did to you was your fault, Cloud.” Sephiroth stated.

Cloud shivered and Sephiroth moved closer. For a moment, Sephiroth stood there before pulling him into a hug. Cloud froze for a moment before he wrapped his arms around Sephiroth and clung to him. Cloud’s eyes closed.

“It’s ok. It will be ok.” Sephiroth whispered.

“I just… I’m so tired of not understanding.” Cloud whispered back.

Sephiroth just nodded, but said nothing. Eventually, Angeal and Zack got up to join their little hug. As they stood there, the door opened and Genesis walked in. 

“I’m home!” Genesis called, only to pause.

“Gen!” Zack pulled away to run and give Genesis a hug, only to pause.

“What happened to you?” Zack asked.

“I really do not want to talk about it.” Genesis said with a huff.

“But your coat is-” Zack’s mouth was covered by Angeal’s hand.

“Why don’t you go clean up? We’ll talk when you get back.” Angeal said sweetly.

Genesis sighed and walked past them, the smelt of burnt leather filling the air almost making Zack choke.

“Very well. Wait for me, will you?” Genesis asked.

“Don’t worry. I think we all need to talk about this.” Sephiroth said.

Cloud pulled away and wiped his eyes. They all pretended they didn’t see the tears, let him believe they didn’t notice. When Genesis left for the bathroom, the rest of them moved back to the couch.

“I’m sorry.” Cloud mumbled to Zack, who just smiled and ruffled his hair.

“Hey, no worries, Spikey. You were emotional. I get it.” Zack said gently.

It didn’t make Cloud feel any better, but he accepted it for what it was. When Genesis eventually came back, cleaned up and in new clothes, he looked the group over.

“So, what exactly happened?” Genesis asked.

For the second time, Sephiroth told the whole story and Genesis hummed.

“Quite the tale. My friend, the fates are cruel. ” Genesis muttered.

“I just feel like I have no idea who I am.” Cloud muttered.

“And I am sure that, over time, you will find out, but for now, you are allowed to just exist.” Sephiroth explained.

Cloud nodded slowly before he took his cup and sipped at it. It did make him feel a little bit better.

“For now, the best plan is to have Cloud stay here. We can do some kind of rotation.” Angeal stated.

“I don’t want to pull you away from your work.” Cloud said.

“Believe us, it will be fine. We have enough PTO between us to take off for the rest of our lives.” Genesis said.

“Well, except me.” Zack cut in.

“You will be the last resort.” Genesis said, waving.

Zack nodded, like that made sense.

“Since we are the head of the SOLDIER division, at least one of us needs to be available. So we will come up with a plan that works for all of us.” Angeal stated.

As the rotation was being discussed, Cloud leaned on Zack and closed his eyes.

Chapter Text

Vincent slipped from the back of the trading convoy and into the forest surrounding Nibelheim without looking back. It had taken some time to get here, but Vincent had travelled as quickly as he could, between flying and hitching rides, to get to Nibelheim. Now that he was here, he had work to do. His first stop? The Shinra Manor.

As he drifted past the center of town, he faintly heard a familiar voice and stopped. From the treeline, he watched as Tifa walked by with a few friends. Her soft, melodious laugh filled the air as they talked, the way her face lit up with a smile and her eyes sparkled made Vincent pause. Vincent found himself staring, unable to look away. She was so young, so carefree. He had always appreciated Tifa’s strength, but he had also always known that strength was built on top of her trauma and sorrow. To see her like this reminded him of why he was doing this.

Finally pulling his eyes away, he turned and made haste to the Manor. He found a window that was slightly cracked and pushed it open to slip inside. It was a bit too easy and he made a note of it mentally. The smell of dust and decay filled his nostrils as he stood there. The Manor was just as he remembered it to be.

“Home sweet home.” Vincent muttered before shaking his head.

Stepping into the entrance hall from one of the bedrooms on the bottom floor, Vincent paused when he noticed footprints in the dirt and dust. Someone had been here recently. And based on the footprints, a few people it seemed. From the way the footprints moved, they had been searching for something. Making a note for later, he drifted upstairs and headed for the elevator to the labs.

As soon as he got to the basement, he headed for the area where his coffin would be. Hopefully, the Vincent of this world would understand and help him. At least then he would have an ally since he didn’t know where Cloud was or what condition he was in. Except…

“What?” Vincent muttered when he entered the room and there was no coffin.

He searched the others, but nothing. There was no coffin anywhere. So what did that mean? Had he placed it somewhere else? Was it even in Nibelheim? Frowning, Vincent knew he had to keep moving. He would have to worry about this later. He headed for the library next, except…

“Empty?” Vincent whispered in shock.

The shelves were empty, the books were missing and all the data was gone. Vincent turned in a slow circle, his mind racing with all the possibilities before he stopped. The coffin was missing, the library was empty, but what about the lab? Vincent rushed from the room and headed for the lab. As soon as he opened the door, he knew…

“They found what they were looking for, but did they understand?” Vincent whispered as he looked around at the empty lab before him.

He walked into the room, looking for anything that would tell him who had been here. But when he found nothing, that gave him a clear answer.

“The Turks.” he muttered.

If the Turks had found everything, he didn’t know what they would do next. This could either be really good or really bad. Leaning on a table, he sighed. He had come all the way here for nothing…

“Or maybe not.” he realized before he turned on his heel.

It was time to head for the reactor.

—sSs—

“Boss.” Vincent looked up from his desk to see Tseng standing in front of him.

“What is it?” Vincent asked.

“An alarm was set off at Shinra Manor in Nibelheim.” Tseng said, handing him a tablet.

Nibelheim? Why was that name haunting him today? Vincent grabbed the tablet and stared, watching in surprise as someone, a man it looked like, appeared on the video. The camera was based in the front hallway of the Manor, and this man had slipped into the frame from where one of the bedrooms was located.

“How long ago?” Vincent asked as he got up.

“About ten minutes ago, but look where he is going.” Tseng said.

They watched as this man immediately headed for the top floor. Vincent’s eye narrowed.

“He’s heading for the elevator.” Vincent muttered.

“I thought no one knew about that. Is that even possible?” Tseng asked.

“It’s clear whoever this is knows exactly where he is going and why he wants to be there. Tell Reno and Rude to start the helicopter. I am heading for Nibelheim.” Vincent commanded.

“Yes Boss, right away.” Tseng nodded.

“And make sure my extra ammo is packed. I have a feeling I will need it.” Vincent said.

“Yes Boss.” Tseng bowed and walked away.

Vincent pulled out his PHS and sent a message to Sephiroth, telling him he was leaving suddenly and he would return when he could. Sephiroth seemed concerned, but wished him luck. 

“Boss, the helicopter is ready.” Tseng messaged.

Vincent grabbed his gun.

“I’m heading to the landing pad. Keep an eye on those cameras in case our mystery man comes back.” he replied.

Tseng just nodded as Vincent left the office and when he got to the landing pad, he entered the helicopter quickly.

“Go.” he commanded.

“Understood.” Rude nodded.

As they took off, Vincent hoped there would be an easy explanation for this. Kids had been known to dare each other to break into the Manor in the past, but this? This didn’t feel like kids playing a dangerous game. He pulled out the tablet again and stared at the rather grainy image. His eye narrowed.

“Any ideas on who would want to bust in there, Big Boss?” Reno asked.

“Someone looking for something.” he replied.

“Something good? Or bad?” Rude asked.

“Nothing good can come from that Manor.” Vincent replied.

Vincent watched the video several times, studying the person intensely. Whoever they were, they were tall, maybe even as tall as himself, with some kind of red and black outfit on. He paused at one point when the man looked up and saw red eyes.

“We are landing.” Rude said.

“Good, hold it steady.” Vincent replied as he got up.

They landed in the front yard, Vincent opening the door before the blades had even stopped turning, wanting to get his questions answered sooner rather than later. Getting out, he eyed the Manor before heading for the window.

“Big Boss, wait up!” Reno called as the two men quickly followed him.

“Keep up.” Vincent replied.

He found the window where the man had entered the Manor and noted the window was closed again. He studied the area, his eyes scanning for footprints.

“Soooo what are we looking for?” Reno asked.

“Anything.” Vincent stated.

“Like this?” Rude called.

The two turned to find him kneeling by the wall surrounding the property, a piece of red cloth in hand. Vincent walked over and eyed it.

“It matches the video. So did this come off when he was coming or going?” Vincent muttered.

“Well, we know he’s not in the Manor anymore, so where else would he go from here?” Reno asked.

Rude frowned and adjusted his glasses.

“The only other thing here besides the Manor is the reactor. As far as I remember anyway.” Rude stated.

Vincent stared at the cloth before nodding.

“Then we head to the reactor.” Vincent declared.

“Aw, do we have to?” Reno whined.

“Yes. We need to find this man and find out what he was looking for.” Vincent demanded.

—sSs—

At the reactor…

Staring at the head floating before him, Vincent let out a deep sigh and started to make his plan. Jenova was still alive, which meant problems for everyone involved. So she needed to go. But how did he do it without bringing Shinra to Nibelheim? He would need to figure out something or he could accidentally start Sephiroth’s downward spiral early. Looking again at the head, his frown deepened.

“You have destroyed so many lives. I won’t let it happen again.” Vincent said coldly.

Jenova didn’t answer him, but he didn’t care if she knew her life was in danger. He would make sure today was her last.

—sSs—

Heading for the reactor in the helicopter, Vincent just had to hope he wasn’t wrong about where the man had gone. There weren’t a lot of places in Nibelheim itself, but beyond the town, the forest was massive. The man could have gone anywhere and finding him from there would be an absolute nightmare. When they landed, Vincent’s eyes landed on the front doors and had a sinking feeling.

“Both of you wait here.” Vincent demanded.

“What! Big Boss!” the two cried, but Vincent glared at them.

“Stand guard here. Don’t let that man escape. If I don’t come out in ten minutes, call for backup.” Vincent commanded.

The two shared a look before nodding seriously. Vincent pulled his gun and grabbed some extra ammo before entering the reactor. He moved silently, his eyes scanning for any kind of movement or signs of something being off. Coming across a corner, he paused when he heard the slightest bit of movement around the side. Counting to three, he whipped around and found a very familiar gun in his face.

The two men stared at each other, guns pointed in the same way and bodies tense. Vincent stared at the man in red and black, startled by the almost familiar face staring back at him.

“Who are you?” the man demanded coldly.

“I’m not really interested in handing out my name. What about you?” Vincent asked.

“Not interested either.” the man said.

“So we are at a stalemate.” Vincent replied.

Yet, the longer Vincent stared, the more something nagged at him in the back of his mind. Something about his eyes, his face, how they seemed so sad. Something Cloud had said. 

“The sad man, the one in mourning.” Vincent muttered.

“Excuse me?” the other asked, sounding annoyed.

“Question for you. Your name wouldn’t happen to be Vincent Valentine, would it?” Vincent asked.

The man’s eyes narrowed.

“It is.” The newly named Valentine said.

“How funny. So is mine.” Vincent replied.

Valentine paused. His eyes ran over Vincent before he spoke again.

“I see… so you were never shot by Hojo then.” Valentine said.

“Oh, I was shot by him. I lost my eye and almost my life, but I survived.” Vincent stated.

“But you were never experimented on…” Valentine asked.

Vincent raised an eyebrow.

“No, I wasn’t. I was left in a coma, but I wasn’t experimented on to my knowledge. I am assuming you were?” Vincent asked.

Valentine pulled his gun back, but didn’t holster it.

“You broke into Shinra Manor and now the reactor. Why? For what reason.” Vincent demanded.

“Jenova.” Valentine stated.

Vincent froze before he let out a deep sigh and holstered his gun.

“We have been searching for her, trying to get rid of her. Are you trying to do the same?” Vincent asked.

“I am. I’m trying to stop a tragedy.” Valentine said.

Vincent nodded.

“We got rid of as many pieces of her as we could find, but we never found the head or main body.” Vincent admitted.

“Because they are here. She is here.” Valentine said.

“Here?” Vincent asked, his eye looking around.

Valentine turned, his cape whipping around. Vincent had to give him points for the theater of it all.

“If you are truly here to get rid of her, then help me do it. If you can’t help me, then at least stay out of my way or I will make you stay out of my way. I will not allow her to destroy this world like she did mine.” Valentine said.

“Let me just tell my team that I am safe.” Vincent stated.

“Make haste then.” Valentine said shortly.

Vincent pulled out his PHS.

“Big Boss, everything ok?” Reno answered.

“Hold your posts. I will be out shortly.” Vincent stated.

Reno hummed.

“Ok…” Reno didn’t sound very convinced, but Vincent hung up on him anyway.

“Reno?” Valentine asked.

Vincent nodded.

“Good to know he’s just as annoying in this world.” Valentine said.

They started walking and Vincent took the time to study the other man. He was tall, lanky, and moved silently. 

“The sad man… why did you call me that?” Valentine asked.

Vincent hummed.

“Someone told me once that my name reminded them of a sad man. A man in mourning. A man who had lost everything.” Vincent replied.

Valentine paused.

“This someone… was it a young man by any chance? With spikey blonde hair like a Chocobo?” Valentine asked seriously.

Vincent frowned.

“What do you know about Cloud Shinra?” Vincent demanded.

Valentine looked at him in confusion.

“You mean Cloud Strife.” Valentine stated.

“Cloud Shinra …” Vincent insisted.

“Cloud Strife .” Valentine pushed back.

The two glared at each other before Valentine spoke.

“Cloud Strife saved me. He gave me a second chance, a chance to make up for my failures. If you know where he is, you will tell me.” Valentine said seriously.

“Well, if we are talking about the same person, he is at Shinra Headquarters with my son.” Vincent replied.

Valentine stopped dead, staring at him in shock.

“Your… son.” Valentine said slowly, like he was trying to wrap his mind around it.

“My son, Sephiroth.” Vincent replied.

Valentine blinked at him before shaking his head.

“I… I think I hit my head harder than I thought.” Valentine muttered.

“I had a son with Lucrecia Crescent. Did you… not?” Vincent asked, confused.

Valentine stared blankly at him.

“I suppose I never had a chance to think about it. I was… not around when Sephiroth was born.” Valentine admitted.

“Nor was I, but when I found out about him, I immediately went to get him and took him from Hojo.” Vincent replied.

“Unfortunately, by the time I woke up, Sephiroth was already…” Valentine shook his head again.

Vincent felt a shiver go up and down his spine.

“What happened to him?” Vincent demanded.

Valentine looked away.

“It’s perhaps best you don’t know.” Valentine admitted.

“I need to know. I promised my son I would protect him.” Vincent demanded.

“Then help me destroy Jenova and you will never have to see him turn into a mindless beast like I had to.” Valentine said before he started walking again.

“Mindless… beast?” Vincent asked, following him.

“Jenova is a parasite. She has the ability to take control of him, twisting him into a monster that only cares about global destruction and hurting others.” Valentine said.

Vincent wanted to believe it wasn’t true. Wanted to tell the other man off, but then they came to the main area and…

“Is that… her?” Vincent whispered in shock.

“Yes. That is Jenova.” Valentine said.

Vincent wasn’t sure what he had been expecting, but this wasn’t it. This strangely human, but still mutated thing. He had seen pictures, but seeing it in person? Completely different.

“How?” Vincent muttered.

“This reactor is the only one under Hojo’s direct control.” Valentine replied.

“I didn’t realize. It wasn’t noted anywhere.” Vincent admitted.

“No one did. And he used that.” Valentine replied.

Vincent let out a sigh and nodded.

“Alright, alright, we need to get rid of her. Any ideas?” Vincent asked.

Valentine looked at him.

“If you came in a Turks helicopter like I think you did, you have explosives, correct?” Valentine demanded.

“We do, but to blow her up would cause a chain reaction that would send this mountain and the town below it sky high.” Vincent replied.

Valentine frowned.

“I suggest we remove her and take her to Shinra Headquarters. We can destroy her there.” Vincent stated, but Valentine quickly shook his head.

“Allowing her to get anywhere near Sephiroth could trigger the connection between them. We have to keep them separated.” Valentine stated seriously.

Vincent frowned before he walked over to the control panel.

“Can we shut it down? Kill her that way?” Vincent asked.

“There is a chance that could work, but I have a better idea.” Valentine pulled his gun.

Vincent raised an eyebrow before he caught on.

“You want to shoot her?” Vincent asked, kind of incredulously.

“Not just shoot her. Fill her so full of holes that she can never be brought back to life.” Valentine replied seriously.

Vincent looked at him, looked at the tank and then looked at the extra ammo he asked for.

“Let me shut this down and then we can do that.” Vincent stated before turning back to the control panel.

“Quickly.” Valentine demanded.

Vincent was starting to understand why people claimed he was so intimidating. He shut the whole thing down as quickly and as safely as he could. Once he was sure it was done, he looked at the other.

“Ready?” Vincent asked, pulling his gun.

Valentine just aimed. Together, they shot Jenova until both of them were out of bullets, reloaded with what Vincent had brought and then unloaded on her again. During that time, Vincent could faintly hear screaming, but he ignored it. When they were done, the tank was little more than broken glass and Jenova? Well…

“Like shooting a fish in a barrel.” Valentine stated before he put his gun away.

Vincent stared at the remains before him.

“It’s over?” Vincent asked quietly.

Before anyone could reply, Vincent’s PHS went off. He raised an eyebrow when he saw Angeal’s name on his phone.

“Valentine.” he answered.

“Vincent! Where are you?!” Angeal demanded.

“On a mission, what’s wrong?” Vincent asked.

“It’s Sephiroth!” Angeal said urgently.

Vincent could hear screaming in the background. His son’s screaming. Vincent turned on his heel and ran for the exit.

“What happened?” Vincent demanded as Valentine followed him.

“We don’t know! He was fine, but then his eyes, nose and ears just started bleeding and he just dropped to the floor, screaming! We are taking him to the med bay now, but he was asking for you.” Angeal explained.

Vincent felt his heart stop as he looked at the other. Valentine looked grim.

“We are on our way, please keep me informed. Valentine out.” Vincent said before hanging up. 

He then called Reno.

“Start the damn copter!” he roared.

“Y-Yes Big Boss!” Reno yelped.

Vincent hung up on him as they made it outside, the helicopter’s blades already spinning. Vincent turned to Valentine.

“Come with me. I need more information.” Vincent demanded.

“I will be right behind you.” Valentine replied.

“Wha-?” Vincent started, but he watched in horror as Valentine started to change right before his eyes until he looked no longer fully human.

“Big Boss?!” Rude and Reno yelled from the helicopter, but Vincent just shook his head and climbed abroad.

“GO!” he demanded.

The two of them looked at him and then watched as Valentine took to the air before Reno just shook his head.

“I don’t get paid enough for this.” Reno muttered as he put on his headset.

“GO!” Vincent yelled.

The helicopter took off as they headed back to headquarters. Vincent just prayed his son would be safe.

—sSs—

Aerith glanced up and frowned. The air felt heavy, like a storm was brewing, but the sky above was clear. Aerith stood up from her patch of flowers, wondering and waiting to see if any type of explanation came, but none did.

“Aerith, honey?” Elmyra called from the front door.

“Coming, Mom!” Aerith called.

Aerith rushed back to the house, hoping and praying everything was ok.

Chapter Text

Angeal stared down helplessly as Sephiroth screamed, jerking and twisting in the barely holding restraints that he had been forced into when he sent two of the doctors flying with a single swipe of his arm. 

“Seph please!” Zack called, his voice shaking with terror, but Sephiroth just kept screaming.

“DO SOMETHING!” Genesis yelled at the doctors, who were scrambling to help.

“General, we are trying, but none of our people can get close enough to sedate him!” one of the doctors snapped back.

Angeal swallowed before meeting Genesis’ eyes. They were thinking the same thing.

“Zack, grab his arm.” Angeal ordered as he grabbed Sephiroth’s left arm.

“W-What! But Angeal!” Zack stuttered as Genesis laid across Sephiroth’s legs.

“Now, Puppy! Before he hurts himself or someone else!” Genesis demanded.

Zack swallowed, but nodded as he grabbed Sephiroth’s other arm. Between the three of them, Sephiroth’s limbs were contained, but just barely. Sephiroth’s strength was no joke and Angeal gritted his teeth as he used every ounce of power he had to keep Sephiroth under control. He hated to do this, Sephiroth hated being restrained, it brought back too many bad memories, but Genesis was right. He would end up hurting himself or someone else if they didn’t.

“Now, do it now!” Angeal ordered.

The doctor nodded and moved to the arm that Angeal was holding. Just as he tried to jam the needle into Sephiroth’s arm, Sephiroth back arched and he screeched so loud that people fell to the floor, covering their ears before he slumped down and was terrifyingly silent.

“Sephiroth?” Genesis whispered, his voice shaking.

“Seph?” Zack called.

Nothing. Sephiroth stared blankly at the ceiling, blood still leaking from his nose, ears and the corner of his eyes. Angeal had never seen him like this. So quiet, so still. It was scary.

“Sephiroth, dear, can you hear me?” Angeal whispered.

Sephiroth’s mouth started to move, but none of them could hear him. Angeal released Sephiroth’s arm to move closer, trying to see what he was saying and maybe figure out what was wrong.

“She’s gone. She’s gone. Mother is gone. She’s gone.” Sephiroth whispered, his voice robotic.

Angeal swallowed and gently cupped his cheek with his hand.

“Sephiroth, please, can you hear me?” Angeal begged.

Sephiroth’s eyes slowly looked at him before Sephiroth turned his head.

“Mother is gone.” Sephiroth muttered.

“I don’t understand, Sephiroth. Mother?” Angeal asked worriedly.

“Mother, my Mother is gone. She is gone. They have taken her from me.” Sephiroth replied.

Angeal looked at Genesis, confused and worried. Zack looked between all three.

“Mother?” Zack finally asked.

“Sephiroth, your mother has been dead for years.” Genesis replied.

Sephiroth didn’t seem to hear him, he just kept muttering, but at least he had stopped thrashing.

“Sirs, can we…?” the doctor asked from the corner of the room.

“Just hold on.” Angeal said, holding out a hand, trying to understand what was going on.

“Where is Vincent? He needs to help us!” Genesis demanded.

“On a mission, but he said he was on his way back.” Angeal replied.

The door suddenly slamming open made all three of them jump in surprise. Turning they found…

—sSs—

Cloud was scared. Like, really fucking scared. Because just a few minutes ago, Sephiroth had been carried from the apartment by the other Firsts, screaming in agony as his eyes, nose and ears bled heavily. Cloud had been frozen in place when Sephiroth had just collapsed to the floor, screaming like he was dying, before Zack had managed to snap all of them out of it by yelling for help. There had been no time for Cloud to even ask what was going on before Angeal grabbed Sephiroth and carried him out of the room followed by Genesis on his PHS with the med bay, demanding they get a room ready for them. That General Sephiroth needed immediate assistance. The last one to leave was Zack and that was because he took a second to speak to Cloud.

“Spikey, I need you to stay here, ok? Just please stay here!” Zack had begged him, grabbing his shoulders desperately.

Cloud had just nodded, which seemed to be enough for Zack, who smiled at him before rushing out the door to follow his boyfriends. As the door slammed shut, Cloud was left sitting there, unsure of what else to do. For a moment, he thought about using the distraction to escape. Just walk right out the door, but something about that didn’t sit right either. Quietly, Cloud gathered the cups and pot of now cold tea before heading to the kitchen. Standing at the sink, Cloud cleaned everything, trying to distract himself from the anxiety in his chest.

As he was putting the last cup on the rack, his head suddenly began to pound. He gasped as he grabbed his head and the counter, desperately trying not to crumble to the floor.

“Puppet…” a hissy voice called.

“W-Who?” Cloud muttered, stumbling as another wave of pure agony came over him.

He curled into himself, as if trying to protect himself from whatever this was. Cloud gritted his teeth when he felt like something was trying to force their way in.

“Open up to me, puppet. Let me in.” the voice whispered.

“N-Not a puppet! W-Who are you!” Cloud demanded as he stumbled away from the sink and slammed his shoulder into the wall.

“Once a puppet, always a puppet! Let me in!” the voice pushed.

Cloud shook his head violently back and forth. He didn’t know what this was or why they wanted inside him, but he wasn’t going to let them in!

“NO!” Cloud snapped back.

Cloud had to hold back a scream when what felt like nails dug into his brain, his very core, and tried to force its way inside. In the struggle between Cloud and whatever the fuck this thing was, something broke and Cloud gasped, falling to the floor. Flashes of his life, his true life appeared before his eyes. The life he had before ending up here, the life with…

Tifa…

Aerith…

His Ma…

His town…

The world he had fought and sacrificed and bled for…

Pieces of who he was, who Cloud Strife was, finally returning…

And suddenly, Cloud knew everything. With all his might, he forced Jenova back, but he knew it was not over. Stumbling to his feet, he rushed out of the apartment.

—sSs—

“Cloud?” Zack called.

Cloud had thrown the door open and now stood in the doorway, panting like he had run a marathon, his eyes flashing. Sometimes they were a swirling green with slitted pupils, other times they were the normal SOLDIER green-blue. Cloud was trembling, his face pinched in agony.

“S-Sephiroth.” Cloud whispered.

“Cloud, what are you-?” Angeal was cut off when Cloud jerkily moved into the room.

He moved like he was fighting for control of his own body. He stumbled his way across the room before he stood next to Sephiroth’s bed. The doctors, recognizing Cloud, immediately ran away, leaving only the Firsts and Cloud in the room. Sephiroth turned to look at Cloud, his eyes glowing bright.

“Mother. Mother is gone, but she is with you.” Sephiroth whispered.

“She is… NOT your Mother.” Cloud hissed.

“What is happening?” Zack asked nervously.

“Mother needs me. She needs you. Let her in.” Sephiroth insisted.

“Jenova is NOT your Mother! And I will NOT let her in!” Cloud spat back.

“Give Mother BACK TO ME!” Sephiroth roared, trying to get free once more.

The bed shook violently and Angeal tensed, ready to hold him down again if need be, but Cloud just scowled before he climbed onto Sephiroth’s chest.

“Hey!” Zack yelled, his face flushing.

But all Cloud did was grab Sephiroth by his jacket lapels and shake him violently.

“WAKE UP! SHE IS NOT YOUR MOTHER! SHE IS A PARASITE! FORCE HER OUT OF YOUR HEAD, DAMNIT!” Cloud roared.

Sephiroth seemed stunned. His eyes started to twitch violently.

“M-Mother…? Not Mother?” Sephiroth mumbled.

“Yes! She is not your Mother, so force her out!” Cloud demanded.

“I-I don’t want-” Sephiroth tried, but Cloud shook him again.

“She doesn’t CARE about you! She is going to USE you!” Cloud stated.

“S-She promised-” Sephiroth was cut off again.

“Her promises are lies!” Cloud snapped.

Sephiroth didn’t seem sure. Cloud gritted his teeth before grabbing Sephiroth’s chin and forcing him to look at Angeal.

“Look around you! Do you really want to lose what you have for some half assed promises! Do you want to lose the men you love to her?!” Cloud demanded.

Sephiroth’s face fell. 

“She wouldn’t-” Sephiroth started, but Cloud cut him off.

“She would! And she would make you do it with your own two hands without a second thought! Is that what you want!” Cloud snapped. 

Locking eyes with Angeal, Sephiroth swallowed.

“No.” he whispered.

“Then force her out!” Cloud demanded.

Cloud jerked his head back around until their eyes locked.

“Her promises mean nothing. Her only desire is power and control. She will leave you with NOTHING! Is that what you want!” Cloud stated coldly.

“No.” Sephiroth whispered.

“What was that!” Cloud demanded.

“I DON’T WANT THAT!” Sephiroth roared.

For a moment, nothing happened and then Sephiroth gasped and slumped back into the bed. His eyes, once glowing, slowly stopped until they looked at least somewhat normal. Sephiroth blinked a few times before he swallowed. He seemed unsure of what was going on, but took note of Cloud sitting on his chest and blinked again.

“Can you get off me now?” Sephiroth finally asked.

Cloud slid off Sephiroth’s chest and stumbled a bit when his feet hit the floor.

“Seph?” Zack whispered.

Sephiroth slowly looked around the room, meeting the eyes of his boyfriends.

“Sephiroth?” Genesis called.

“I’m sorry.” he whispered.

The panic in Angeal’s chest released in a whoosh of air. He moved to Sephiroth’s side.

“Sephiroth?” Angeal whispered.

Angeal touched Sephiroth’s cheek with his fingers and Sephiroth pressed against them. Angeal’s relief was clear and soon, Zack wrapped himself around Sephiroth’s chest.

“You’re ok!” Zack cried.

“Dear Gaia.” Genesis mumbled before he walked over and took Sephiroth’s hand in his.

The four of them clung to each other as Cloud stumbled away and dropped into a chair nearby, trembling. When everything calmed, Angeal finally turned to Cloud.

“What happened.” Angeal demanded.

Cloud raised an eyebrow.

“I could tell you, but I don’t think you will believe me.” Cloud admitted.

There was something different about Cloud, something had changed. His voice, his posture, his everything was different from the confused young man they had been dealing with. Angeal swallowed.

“We need to know.” Angeal stated.

Before Cloud could answer, the door jerked open again.

“Sephiroth!” Vincent demanded.

“Father.” Sephiroth tiredly called out.

Vincent moved to Sephiroth’s side and looked him over. As he did so, another man appeared in the doorway. All of them stared at him in confusion because why did he almost look like Vincent?

“Ummm who the fuck is that?” Zack demanded, pointing.

Cloud turned and blinked rapidly.

“Vincent?” Cloud called.

Valentine turned to him.

“Cloud. Good to see you.” he stated.

“Ummmm?” Zack muttered.

“What is happening today?” Genesis whispered.

“It was you, wasn’t it? You killed Jenova?” Cloud asked instead.

“We did.” Valentine nodded.

“I see.” Cloud rubbed his forehead.

“Wait, are you telling me Jenova was able to do this? She was in Nibelheim!” Vincent demanded.

“I told you, she is a parasite. She would have used anything she could to survive. Most likely with her physical body destroyed, she attempted to take over either Cloud or Sephiroth as her new host.” Valentine stated.

“But she’s gone now, right?” Cloud asked.

“She was left as nothing more than a smear on the floor after we finished with her.” Valentine nodded.

Cloud slumped in his seat. Genesis’ eyes narrowed.

“You seem to know more than you did before.” Genesis said.

Everyone turned to Cloud, who sighed.

“Because I do. When Jenova attempted to force her control over me, it unlocked my memories and forced me to remember everything.” Cloud admitted.

“Force her control over you? Why?” Zack asked.

“Because she wanted to use me to get to Sephiroth. She was trying to force our connection open, but I don’t have that connection with this Sephiroth.” Cloud explained.

“This Sephiroth?” Genesis asked, baffled.

Cloud and Valentine glanced at each other.

“We must speak privately. This room is too public for us to explain everything.” Valentine said.

“I second that.” Cloud agreed.

Vincent sighed.

“Let us get Sephiroth checked out and then we will all speak.” Vincent said.

With that, some of the doctors finally flooded in. Most of the group was forced out, but when they tried to make Vincent leave, his eye narrowed.

“I will stay with my son.” he said coldly.

The doctors didn’t dare try and ask him to leave again. The others were directed to a small, private waiting room. Cloud managed to walk until the door was closed behind them and then stumbled into Valentine. Valentine caught him and lightly directed him to the couch. Zack eyed them, but moved to sit next to Cloud anyway, despite Angeal and Genesis’ alarm.

“So who are you?” Zack asked Valentine.

Valentine raised an eyebrow.

“Vincent Valentine.” he replied eventually.

Zack blinked a few times, but before he could open his mouth, Angeal coughed sharply. Zack looked at Angeal, who just shook his head. Zack pouted, but didn’t ask. Instead, he turned to Cloud.

“How are you feeling?” Zack asked.

Cloud blinked.

“Tired. Fighting off Jenova’s influence is… difficult.” Cloud admitted.

Zack wrapped an arm around him and hugged him tightly. Valentine raised an eyebrow when Cloud didn’t pull away. But he didn’t say anything, instead he leaned against a wall, arms crossed. They sat in silence, not wanting to speak when they knew the room was bugged. Eventually, there was a knock.

“Come in.” Angeal called.

Tseng opened the door and eyed the group before pausing when his eyes landed on Valentine.

“Are you…?” Tseng asked.

“I am.” Valentine nodded.

Tseng took in a deep breath.

“So Reno was telling the truth. Incredible.” Tseng shook his head.

Valentine raised an eyebrow.

“I was asked to move you all to the Turks office so we can have a private conversation.” Tseng stated.

“Right, private.” Genesis scuffed, but got up from his chair as they quietly agreed to follow Tseng out of the med bay.

Tseng said nothing as he directed them to an elevator, Vincent already inside. They didn’t dare speak until they hit the Turks’ office. Reno and Rude glanced up when they walked in. The second the door closed, Vincent turned to Cloud and Valentine.

“I think it’s time for us to get the full story from you both.” Vincent demanded.

Valentine eyed him, as if daring him to question them, but Cloud nodded.

“Fine.” Cloud walked over and sat down in the middle of the room.

The Turks stared, startled, but Valentine simply moved to stand behind him and Vincent understood. Cloud felt comfortable enough with Valentine to have his back unguarded. That told them a lot about the relationship between the two. Zack looked a little betrayed by this.

“Let’s start at the beginning. My name is Cloud Strife, born and raised in Nibelheim by my ma, Claudia Strife. I’m sorry, but I am not Cloud Shinra.” Cloud started.

“But, how is that possible? Your DNA?” Tseng asked, eying him.

“The simple explanation is that Vincent and I aren’t from this world.” Cloud explained.

“Not from this…?” Vincent asked as he sat down behind his desk.

“Correct. Vincent and I fell into a mako pool in our world and ended up here. At least, that’s what I remember.” Cloud turned to Valentine, who nodded.

“Is that possible?” Genesis asked.

Cloud shrugged.

“To be honest, we kind of do the impossible all the time.” Cloud stated as Valentine nodded again.

“So, these are your’s then?” Rude pulled a bag out of a drawer and held it out.

“I was wondering where they went.” Cloud took the bag and eyed them.

“They were found in Hojo’s apartment… in a wall behind his toilet… for some reason.” Rude shook his head like he didn’t want to know.

“Oh ew.” Cloud mumbled, making a face.

“We can get them dry cleaned later. We still need them for evidence, so we will return them when done.” Vincent stated.

Cloud nodded as he handed it back.

“Any chance you found a sword?” Cloud asked, somewhat hopefully.

“No sword, sorry.” Rude shook his head.

Cloud scowled.

“I swear to Gaia if he destroyed my Fusion Sword.” Cloud said angrily.

“Back to the topic at hand please.” Angeal cut in.

“Right. Like I said, my name is Cloud Strife. The long and short of it is I was a Shinra infantryman who was kidnapped and experimented on by Hojo in our world.” Cloud stated.

“That explains the enhancements.” Vincent stated.

“Along with the PTSD.” Cloud grumbled.

“And you are?” Genesis eyed Valentine.

“A Turk that was in charge supervising the Jenova Project in Nibelheim. I will admit my sins, I fell in love with Lucrecia Crescent before she gave birth to Sephiroth. Unfortunately for me, when I protested Hojo’s use of Sephiroth in his experiments, I was shot and basically killed by Hojo.” Valentine stated.

“But, you’re standing here right in front of us? Are you dead or alive?” Zack asked, tilting his head to the side.

“Zack, you cannot just ask someone if they are dead.” Genesis stated as Angeal rubbed his forehead.

“Oops, sorry.” Zack muttered.

“It is fine. I am, in every sense, both. Hojo used my body for his experimentation and when Lucrecia found out, she implanted a being called Chaos inside me. I was… not exactly pleased with this change, but there was nothing I could do. After Lucrecia became ill, I sealed myself away for my sins. Admittedly, looking back on it now, I wish I had chosen a different path.” Valentine explained.

Everyone took a moment to absorb that information before Reno spoke.

“So then wait… does that mean your Sephiroth was raised… by HOJO?!” Reno yelped.

“Yes, he was.” Valentine said softly.

The group was startled. Vincent looked at the floor. He couldn’t imagine what sort of horrors that Sephiroth had been put through.

“That’s crazy, yo.” Reno whispered.

“Shut up, Reno.” Rude muttered.

Reno pouted, but shut up.

“You said he went crazy… is that true?” Vincent asked.

Cloud and Valentine looked at him.

“It was a mission in Nibelheim. When Sephiroth learned the truth about… what he was, he went mad. He burned the town to the ground… but not before murdering everyone. My… My ma was one of the victims.” Cloud said softly.

“Oh Spikey.” Zack muttered.

Cloud glanced at Zack and swallowed.

“Zack Fair was the other First on that mission. He was… a dear friend to me. He tried to stop Sephiroth, tried to get through to him, tried to help him, but failed… the only way to stop Sephiroth at that point was to kill him. So that’s what I did. I threw him into the Nibelheim reactor and as far as I know, he died that day. Afterwards, Zack and I were taken by Hojo. We were under his care for five years before Zack got us out… Zack died protecting me. He saved me at the cost of his own life.” Cloud explained.

Zack’s eyes were wide with shock. He slowly looked away, swallowing.

“I… I see.” Zack whispered.

Angeal reached over and placed a hand on his shoulder in comfort.

“What about us? Angeal and I? Where were we when all of this insanity happened? Another mission? Wutai?” Genesis demanded.

“Angeal Hewley and Genesis Rhapsodos both abandoned Shinra and were considered enemies of the company by that point. As far as I know, Angeal had been killed in a battle with Zack, but I have no idea what happened to Genesis.” Cloud said.

“WHAT! ENEMIES?! YOU MUST BE LYING!” Genesis yelled furiously.

“Both General Hewley and General Rhapsodos were suffering from severe degradation.” Valentine cut in.

“Degradation? But Hojo made a cure!” Angeal stated.

“In our world, he never bothered and Hollander was incompetent.” Valentine shook his head.

Vincent’s eye narrowed thoughtfully.

“Hollander and Lazard are already in prison after they were found conspiring against Shinra after Rufus Shinra became President. Hojo was the only option.” Vincent said.

“So… we just… abandoned our posts? Our men? Sephiroth?” Angeal asked, his voice quietly horrified.

“Yes.” Cloud nodded.

“Whoa.” Rude muttered.

“Shut up, Rude.” Reno said.

Rude snapped his mouth shut.

“So everything that could go wrong did.” Tseng said.

“Yes.” Valentine nodded.

“But you were afraid of Sephiroth when you woke up. If he’s dead in your world…?” Angeal asked.

“Sephiroth doesn’t stay dead for long.” Cloud muttered, annoyed.

“What does that mean?” Zack asked, baffled.

Cloud sighed and leaned back in his chair, looking at the ceiling.

“When Sephiroth died, Hojo was furious, but was also convinced he could be brought back. So he used Zack and I to do that, something he called the Jenova Reunion Project. In a sense, he made us anchors for Sephiroth, pumped us so full of Sephiroth’s and Jenova’s cells that I am kind of shocked you didn’t see it in my records. But Zack is gone and I’m the only one left. So as long as I am alive, he’ll come back over and over again. It’s a never ending cycle.” Cloud paused.

“A never ending cycle… in our world.” Cloud lifted his head.

Valentine raised an eyebrow.

“Do you think…?” Cloud muttered.

“You think because you are here, he can’t return?” Valentine asked.

“I mean, maybe? What does Chaos say?” Cloud asked, looking at him.

Valentine frowned before shaking his head.

“He won’t say yes or no.” Valentine admitted.

Cloud rolled his eyes.

“Of course he won’t. But there’s a chance, maybe. Maybe that world can finally heal.” Cloud frowned.

“That means you can never return though.” Valentine replied.

“We have no idea if we even could. I mean, what do we do? Throw ourselves into another mako pool and hope we don’t end up somewhere else?” Cloud asked.

Valentine’s eyes squinted like he didn’t enjoy that idea.

“I would rather… not.” he admitted.

“Same here. Mako fucks me up.” Cloud sighed.

“There is so much happening here.” Tseng muttered.

“But then… what happened to Cloud Shinra?” Reno asked.

Vincent’s eyes narrowed.

“That’s what I am going to find out.” Vincent stood up.

“How?” Cloud asked.

“By getting the information from Hojo himself.”

Chapter Text

“Well now. I was wondering when I would see you again.” Hojo said with a mocking smile, fingers interlaced as he sat, chained to the table.

Vincent walked over to the table and dropped a file on to it. He sat in the chair opposite Hojo as a shadow slipped into the corner behind him.

“We found your lab at the uniform factory.” Vincent stated.

Hojo hummed boredly.

“Did you now?” Hojo demanded.

Vincent flipped open the file and slid it across the table.

“We found Cloud. We found all your files on Subject C, actually.” Vincent stated.

Hojo glanced down, staring at the broken tank in the picture, and smiled sharply. He seemed amused.

“All my files? That I doubt.” Hojo replied.

“We tore your apartment apart. Your labs apart. We found all the things you hid. Your list of crimes is growing by the day.” Vincent said.

“My crimes? You mean my contributions to Shinra? To Society? Please. No crimes were committed.” Hojo said, dismissively.

“Oh really? Let’s see then. Human experimentation, child abuse, animal abuse, grave robbing? Any of those ringing a bell with you?” Vincent listed off.

“All of these were cleared by legal.” Hojo stated boredly.

“And I have that documentation too. The documentation that basically shows you threatening anyone who dared try to stop you. Threatening to take their families away, their wives, their children, even their dogs. You should really be more careful about what you put in emails. So yeah, that’s not going to hold up in court.” Vincent stated.

“Hmph! You neanderthals don’t understand that science requires sacrifices! Shinra never would have become as powerful as it did without my brilliance!” Hojo replied hotly.

“Right, but then I have to ask. Why did you kidnap Cloud Shinra?” Vincent demanded.

“Kidnap him? Please, don’t be so crude.” Hojo huffed as he looked away.

“Then how did he end up in your care?” Vincent demanded.

“Simple, you buffoon. He was given to me.” Hojo sniffed.

Vincent paused and so did the shadow in the corner.

“Given?” Vincent stated.

“Correct. I didn’t have to take him. He was given to me by President Shinra himself.” Hojo replied.

Vincent had feared this answer.

“For what reason?” Vincent asked cooly.

“He wanted the boy to be enhanced. He demanded I take him and make him as strong as Sephiroth. As if such a thing is possible, but I digress. He insisted on it so I complied.” Hojo reached up to adjust his glasses, his shackles clanging loudly.

“So you took a 14 year old boy and experimented on him.” Vincent said coldly.

“I did what the President wanted. I did my job. You should understand that very well.” Hojo stated.

Vincent ignored the obvious jab at his position.

“He was a child. You tortured a child.” Vincent replied.

“A child that was remarkably durable until the end there. I was actually quite surprised he held on for as long as he did.” Hojo stated simply.

“Until the end… what end?” Vincent demanded.

Hojo’s smile was like a dagger.

“Oh, so you haven’t found the body yet? How sad.” Hojo said coldly.

“So you did kill him.” Vincent stated.

“Kill him? Oh, no! I didn’t have to. He just… gave up one day.” Hojo shrugged.

“When.” Vincent demanded.

“Hm, about six months ago? I apologize, but I haven’t seen a calendar in quite a while. So my timing could be off. Besides, I found that replacement around the same time so I didn’t need to stop my experiments. So truly, I just traded one used up version for a better one.” Hojo replied.

Six months. Vincent felt something inside him freeze. Hojo had been arrested five months ago. So if they had just been a bit faster, they could have… The shadow in the corner moved and suddenly Valentine was there. Hojo jumped, startled, but Valentine just reached out and grabbed him, yanking him up.

“W-What! Unhand me, you-” Hojo froze, staring at golden eyes.

“You miserable beast.” Valentine hissed.

Hojo swallowed.

“Chaos.” he whispered in fear.

“That’s right and your time has come, Hojo. Your crimes will be judged and I will be the executioner when they finally decide keeping you alive taints this world.” Valentine said coldly.

“Where is he, Hojo? Where is Cloud Shinra?” Vincent demanded.

Hojo swallowed hard, eyes darting between them.

“I-I don’t have to tell you anything!” Hojo hissed.

“We found Jenova.” Valentine stated.

Hojo paled so fast, he was ashen.

“W-What?” he whispered.

“That’s right. We found her and we destroyed her. She is gone.” Vincent agreed.

Hojo looked between them before he let out a howl and started to jerk around.

“NO! NO! YOU FOOLS! YOU'VE RUINED EVERYTHING!” he howled.

Valentine dropped him and he collapsed onto the table, covering his head with his hands.

“Jenova is gone. Sephiroth is safe. The world is safe. And you will be locked up for the rest of your miserable life.” Vincent grabbed his file and stood up.

“And wherever you have buried Cloud Shinra, we will find him.” Valentine said.

The two left the room, leaving Hojo to his own devices. When they moved to the next room over, Vincent looked at Rufus.

“Mr. President.” Vincent said sadly.

Rufus stood before them, eyes wet with tears. He had been watching the whole thing from the cameras. Tseng stood next to him, head lowered sadly.

“Six months? We missed saving Cloud… by six months?” Rufus whispered.

His hand laid on Darkstar’s head, who whined as it leaned against his master’s leg.

“So it seems.” Valentine said.

Rufus swallowed and rubbed his mouth.

“We will find him. I promise you.” Vincent said.

Rufus just nodded slowly.

“Please. I need… to bury him properly.” Rufus replied.

Vincent stepped back as Rufus left the room with Darkstar following. Vincent looked at Tseng, who nodded and quickly followed Rufus.

“What is our plan from here?” Valentine asked as they stood there a moment.

“Go over the documents again. See if I missed anything. Feel like helping?” Vincent replied.

“Led the way.” Valentine said.

—sSs—

Sephiroth opened his eyes to the sound of snoring. Very familiar snoring. He turned his head and found Genesis asleep in the chair next to his bed. Turning his head the other way showed Zack and Angeal sitting on the couch, leaning on each other, also asleep. Sephiroth blinked tiredly before letting out a breath.

“How do you feel?” Sephiroth sat up a bit to see Cloud sitting at the end of his bed.

“Exhausted. I don’t think I have been this tired since I was lost for three days in enemy territory during the Wutai war.” Sephiroth admitted.

“Yeah, fighting her will take it out of you.” Cloud muttered, leaning forward.

Sephiroth reached over and the bed shifted upwards so he could sit up properly. Sephiroth locked eyes with Cloud and found clarity there.

“You seem… different.” Sephiroth said.

“I am. I remember everything. My name is Cloud Strife. Nice to finally meet you.” Cloud said.

Sephiroth raised an eyebrow.

“You saved me from her… how did you know what to do?” Sephiroth asked.

“The long and short of it? I’ve been under her control before. I know what to do.” Cloud admitted.

Sephiroth hummed lightly.

“I will take your word for it. I am… too tired to argue.” Sephiroth said.

He looked around the room again, his eyes soft as he looked over his boyfriends.

“She would have taken them away from me, wouldn’t she?” Sephiroth asked quietly.

“Yes. She would have turned you against them until you either killed them or they killed you. She had no use for them. She never had use for them.” Cloud said.

“But she had a use for you?” Sephiroth asked.

“She sees me as a tool, a puppet for you to control.” Cloud explained.

“Is that what she was calling you? I could barely make it out, but ‘puppet’ does sound familiar.” Sephiroth said.

“I will tell you the full story when you feel better. I already explained some of it to them.” Cloud nodded to Angeal/Zack and then Genesis.

Sephiroth looked at him.

“Are you sure she is gone? That I will never…?” Sephiroth asked quietly.

“I trust Vincent to get rid of her. If he said he did, then she is gone. So rest.” Cloud replied evenly.

Sephiroth nodded and closed his eyes. Eventually, his breathing evened out and he was asleep. Cloud watched this for a moment before getting up. At the door, Rufus was waiting. The two stared at each other.

“I’m sorry.” Cloud said gently.

“For what?” Rufus asked.

“For not being your Cloud.” Cloud said.

Rufus sighed and looked away.

“I waited for 8 years to find him or at least get his body back. I prepared myself for the worst for years, but… it doesn’t make it any easier.” Rufus admitted.

Cloud crossed his arms, feeling uncomfortable and unsure of what to do.

“My father gave Cloud to Hojo.” Rufus finally said.

Cloud’s eyes widened in surprise.

“I never knew, never suspected, but honestly? It all makes sense now. Why he didn’t bother looking for Cloud, why he never seemed concerned and why Cloud was… forgotten.” Rufus whispered.

“I see… I don’t remember how long I was with Hojo, but I know I didn’t…” Cloud paused.

“Wait. I do remember one thing. Perhaps… it can help?” Cloud suggested.

Rufus turned to him.

“What is it?” Rufus asked.

“When Hojo would experiment on me, I thought I heard someone screaming. I assumed it was me, but… maybe it wasn’t?” Cloud asked tentatively.

“Hojo said he was dead though.” Rufus stated.

“Hojo says a lot of things. How much of it is true is up to chance. And besides, where I am from, death isn’t the end.” Cloud replied.

Rufus raised an eyebrow, like he didn’t know what to make of that. A slight cough made them both look over to Tseng.

“Mr. President, you have a board meeting shortly.” Tseng said politely.

“Right. Thank you, Tseng.” Rufus nodded before turning back to Cloud.

“Mr. Strife, have a good day.” Rufus said.

“You too.” Cloud said softly, watching as Rufus, Darkstar and Tseng left.

Cloud sighed when they were out of sight. He turned and jumped, startled to find someone standing behind him.

“Zack!” Cloud huffed.

“Oops! Haha, sorry. Didn’t mean to startle you.” Zack said, rubbing the back of his neck.

Cloud swallowed and looked away.

“You’re fine. I just didn’t hear you.” Cloud said.

“Right… wanna grab a cup of coffee?” Zack asked and Cloud nodded.

“Sure. I could use the caffeine.” Cloud agreed.

They walked to a small cafeteria on the same floor and grabbed some coffees (Cloud made Zack get decaf) before they sat down. Cloud found himself staring intently at his cup, not daring to look at Zack.

“Spikey?” Zack called.

Cloud swallowed and glanced at him. Zack gave him a small smile.

“Is it that hard to look at me?” Zack asked sadly.

Cloud winced before he sighed.

“It’s… You have to understand… Zack sacrificed himself for me. He gave up his life, his dreams, so I could live. I have… struggled with that for a long time.” Cloud muttered, hands tightening around the cup.

Zack frowned and tilted his head to the side.

“But I’m not that Zack. Just like you aren’t Cloud Shinra.” Zack replied.

Cloud blinked and looked at him. Staring Zack in the face, Cloud could make out the differences between the Zack he remembered and this Zack. Sure, his hair was the same length and style, but the scar on his cheek was gone and the haunted look in his eyes was also missing. Zack seemed healthier, happier and younger. This was a Zack who hadn’t had to kill his mentor, who hadn’t had to fight Sephiroth to keep him from rampaging, who wasn’t burdened with those sins. Cloud’s shoulders relaxed.

“Yeah, you guys are different, huh?” Cloud said softly.

“That’s right! Someone else may have my name, but no one can be me. I’m too handsome for there to be two of me.” Zack winked and Cloud snorted, shaking his head.

“One of a kind.” Cloud mumbled.

“That’s right!” Zack puffed out his chest proudly.

“I thought I heard your voices in here.” the two of them looked up to see Angeal step inside.

He saw the cups and raised an eyebrow.

“It’s decaf.” both Zack and Cloud said as Zack held up his cup.

“That’s good. We don’t need you bouncing off the walls.” Angeal nodded before grabbing his own cup.

Angeal joined them at the table and sighed, rubbing his forehead.

“Angeal?” Zack said worriedly.

“I’m sorry, dear. It’s just been a long few days.” Angeal said with a small smile.

“Sorry.” Cloud replied.

Angeal’s eyes landed on him, startled before he shook his head.

“It’s not your fault.” Angeal replied softly.

“Feels like it is.” Cloud muttered.

“The only person we can blame here is Hojo.” Angeal’s voice became icy.

Cloud nodded at that before the trio fell into silence.

—sSs—

The next time Sephiroth woke up, it was to a soft voice reading to him.

“There is no hate, only joy. For you are beloved by the goddess. Hero of the dawn, Healer of worlds.” Genesis read.

“Act II.” Sephiroth muttered as he turned his head.

Genesis lowered his beloved copy of Loveless and smiled.

“Happy to see you actually do pay attention when we go to the theater.” Genesis stated as he closed the book.

“Kind of hard not to. We go almost every month.” Sephiroth said tiredly.

Genesis reached out and grabbed his hand, gently rubbing the top of his hand with his thumb.

“How are you feeling?” Genesis asked.

“Tired, but better. How are you?” Sephiroth asked.

For a moment, Genesis stared at Sephiroth, taking in his features, the slope of his nose, the bow of his lips and the slitted pupils of his eyes. His other hand came up and cupped Sephiroth’s cheek with such tenderness that Sephiroth felt his heart skip a beat.

“Genesis?” Sephiroth called.

“Our little bird has told us some horrible stories, Sephiroth. About you and I in the other world and all I can think is how my other self could be so blind, so selfish, so insufferable that he didn’t treasure the connections he had. Didn’t treasure you.” Genesis admitted.

Sephiroth seemed confused for a moment before he pressed against his hand.

“Well, I suppose for every wonderful Genesis that exists, there is one that isn’t so amazing.” Sephiroth said.

Genesis chuckled and shook his head.

“Yes, that does make sense, doesn’t it?” Genesis muttered.

They sat in silence for a moment before Genesis let out a trembling sigh.

“I was so afraid, my love. When you started bleeding, when you started screaming, all I could do was stare. I couldn’t even… if it hadn’t been for Zack screaming for help, I don’t know what I would have done. I-I’m so sorry for not doing more.” Genesis muttered.

Sephiroth pulled Genesis’ hand up and pressed a kiss to his knuckles.

“I understand. I was just as afraid when it started. It felt… awful. I cannot describe it if I tried.” Sephiroth whispered.

Genesis let out a breath.

“I never want to see you in pain like that again.” Genesis whispered.

Sephiroth just smiled tiredly. Both of them knew he couldn’t keep that promise.

—sSs—

Valentine closed another folder, placed it to the side and opened the next one. His eyes scanned the information quickly, before he closed that too and moved on to the next one. He was purposely ignoring the two people staring at him as he worked until he physically couldn’t any longer. With a sigh, he put down his last folder before finally looking at Elena.

“May I help you?” he demanded.

Elena squeaked and quickly hid behind her folder.

“N-No! You’re fine! Just uhhh needed to rest my eyes!” Elena said quickly.

Valentine hummed as he met Cissnei’s eyes, who didn’t look away.

“So you’re like… Big Boss’ alter ego?” Cissnei asked.

“Cissnei.” Vincent said warningly.

“Something like that. Can I have those folders next to you?” Valentine replied.

Cissnei rolled her eyes, but handed him a stack of folders. Valentine nodded his thanks before he started to scan them.

“We’ve been through these folders a dozen times. There was nothing about Cloud and the recorder Rude found was just him rambling about Jenova and the Promised Land.” Cissnei stated boredly.

“Hojo’s obsession with Jenova is multi-dimensional.” Valentine replied.

He got to another folder and paused.

“And what is Subject I?” Valentine asked, eyes narrowed.

“Oh hm… hold on, I have a key for the different project names.” Cissnei pulled a notebook from her pocket and flipped through it before pausing.

“Alrighty, Subject I for Icicle, a branch off of Project Jenova. Apparently, Hojo was interested in the Northern Crater and spent some time there. Nothing of importance was noted.” Cissnei explained.

“Hm. Sephiroth in our world also spent time in that Crater. It’s where Jenova landed in our world and where Sephiroth reappeared when he came back.” Valentine put that folder in a new pile.

“You think something is there that we missed?” Vincent asked.

“After Sephiroth’s second death, the Remnants were also found there. So there could be something.” Valentine replied.

When no one spoke, he looked up.

“Remnants?” Vincent asked, baffled.

“Ah, apologies. In our world, Sephiroth’s death led to the creation of three remnants, pieces of his will, called Kadaj, Loz and Yazoo. They were found in the Crater when the Turks were searching for any remains of Jenova.” Valentine stated.

“Pieces…” Vincent muttered.

“That’s…” Elena whispered.

“They are gone now. When Sephiroth came back again, they returned to him.” Valentine explained.

Vincent reached up and rubbed his forehead.

“The more you talk, the more I wonder how your world ended so messed up.” Vincent muttered.

Valentine looked at him. He seemed to think very carefully about his next words before he spoke.

“I believe small choices, small changes that you all made changed the course of history. By you taking Sephiroth in, you saved him from becoming little more than a weapon of destruction for Shinra. By Hojo creating a cure for degradation, Angeal and Genesis were saved. Little changes fixed what was meant to be broken.” Valentine said.

Vincent nodded slowly. Elena and Cissnei shared a look, uncertain if they should be here when Valentine turned back to his folders. He paused again when he got to the fourth one.

“Wait.” Valentine stood up quickly.

“Huh? What is it?” Elena asked, startled by his sudden movement.

“The Fusion Sword. It’s in the background of this photo.” Valentine said, showing Vincent, who took it.

“Are you sure?” Vincent squinted to see a rather large sword shape in the background, but the photo was so blurry you could barely make it out.

The date stamp on the bottom said it was from 6 months ago.

“The Fusion Sword is one of a kind. Cloud created it himself. There’s no mistaking it. Which means Cloud was here, at this location before being moved to the other one.” Valentine said.

“But we already went through that location and I don’t remember that sword being there. Maybe someone moved the sword?” Cissnei asked.

Valentine raised an eyebrow at her.

“Despite how it looks, it’s actually incredibly heavy. Only someone with First Class SOLDIER strength can pick it up. I can barely pick it up in human form and I have at least Second Class strength.” Valentine said.

“Oh.” Elena and Cissnei said.

“So you think this was the first location… so Cloud Shinra could be there. I see.” Vincent nodded.

Vincent pulled out his PHS.

“Reno, Rude, start up the helicopter to head to the Junon location where Hojo’s fourth lab was found.” Vincent demanded before eying the photo again.

“We are looking for a sword. A very large sword.”

Chapter Text

“Seph! You’re awake!” Zack cheered as they walked into the room.

Zack immediately zoomed to Sephiroth’s side and hugged him tightly.

“Zack.” Sephiroth lifted his arm and wrapped it around Zack, squeezing him tightly.

“Hmph! What am I? Wallpaper?” Genesis demanded, arm crossed.

Angeal rolled his eyes as he walked over and kissed Genesis’ scowl off his mouth.

“Hello, Gen. I got you coffee.” Angeal handed him a cup.

“Thank you. I know this is the sludge they serve in the cafeteria, but I will take it until we can get something better.” Genesis said as he sipped from the cup.

Cloud watched this all from the doorway, staring at the group with sad eyes. Seeing them like this, so happy, made his heart ache for the people he had lost. Watching as they shared their joy at just being around each other, Cloud eventually slipped away. He wasn’t surprised when Valentine just appeared by his side.

“Find anything?” Cloud asked.

“Your Fusion Sword.” Valentine said, handing him a photo.

Cloud snatched it and felt his heart begin to beat quickly. That was definitely his sword. He would know the outline anywhere.

“Where is it?” Cloud asked.

“A lab in Junon. Vincent wants to go get it.” Valentine stated.

“Can they even pick it up? If they scratch it, there will be hell to pay.” Cloud scowled.

“That’s why I am here. Vincent wants you to go as well. See if you remember anything.” Valentine replied.

Cloud’s eyes widened in surprise.

“How did you convince him of that?” Cloud asked.

“I warned him if Reno dropped your sword and got the even tiniest scratch, Reno would end up as a human pretzel.” Valentine explained.

“Good point. Alright, let’s go.” Cloud said.

“I’m not going.” Valentine replied.

Cloud turned to him, startled.

“Why?” Cloud demanded.

“Vincent and I have discussed it. He wants me to stay here and keep reviewing the files. He is going with you.” Valentine said.

“Alright, I understand. I’ll be back then.” Cloud nodded before he turned away.

“Cloud, before you go, you might want to change.” Valentine called.

“Change?” Cloud asked.

Valentine smirked.

“Reno finally got around to having your clothes dry cleaned.” Valentine stated.

“Sounds good to me. See you later.” Cloud smirked back.

“Be safe.” Valentine said.

Cloud waved over his shoulder as he headed for the elevator. When he got there, he wasn’t shocked to see Reno and Rude waiting for him.

“About time, yo.” Reno said, holding out a dry cleaning bag over a hanger.

Cloud rolled his eyes as he grabbed it.

“Just take me to the landing pad.” Cloud demanded as he checked under the plastic and found his clothes to be cleaner than he had ever seen them.

“Yeah, yeah. Big Boss said to take you and that would lead to Cloud Shinra. Not sure I believe it.” Reno replied.

“I am not sure either, but if Vincent believes that going there to get my sword will help us find Cloud Shinra, then it’s worth a shot.” Cloud stated.

Rude hummed as he adjusted his glasses.

“I still can’t believe you aren’t him. I was there when they did the tests. I watched them do it and when the results came in.” Rude said.

“Sorry to disappoint.” Cloud replied as they hit the top and found Vincent waiting for them.

Rude walked past him to get in the helicopter to start the checks.

“I see you got your dry cleaning. Good. Are you ready to go?” Vincent demanded.

“Let me change and I will be.” Cloud replied.

About five minutes later, Cloud had switched from the black shirt and jeans Zack had given him to his regular outfit. He felt a little more like Cloud when he was done.

“Yoooo, actually that’s pretty cool.” Reno whispered in amazement.

“Quite the outfit.” Vincent stated.

“Thanks. Can we go?” Cloud asked.

“The helicopter is ready.” Rude said.

They climbed into the helicopter and Cloud closed his eyes as he crossed his arms tightly.

“What’s wrong with you? Don’t like helicopters?” Reno mocked.

“Fuck you. I get motion sickness.” Cloud snapped.

“Reno, leave him alone.” Vincent demanded.

Reno rolled his eyes, but settled into the copilot seat with his arms crossed. Vincent shook his head, like a dad disappointed in his son. They flew in silence for a while before Cloud spoke.

“Hojo’s case…” Cloud trailed off.

“We have more than enough evidence to lock him away for the rest of his miserable life, if not have him executed.” Vincent replied.

“But a body would make it stick, huh?” Cloud asked.

“Very true.” Vincent nodded.

Cloud sighed deeply.

“Hojo in my world never stood trial for his crimes. Hell, he was still working for Shinra long after Zack and I escaped him. I killed him myself eventually. But not soon enough. I just… can’t wrap my head around a world where he might actually be held responsible.” Cloud admitted.

“Hojo, you will find, is like a cockroach. He will do anything to survive. But his time has run out.” Vincent replied.

“Oh, I believe it and I hope to be there when you fry him. Hell, if you’d let me, I’d kill him with my own two hands.” Cloud said.

They flew in silence from there. As soon as they landed, Cloud opened his eyes and looked around. If they hadn’t told him there was a lab here, he never would have known, but he guessed that was the point. He followed Vincent and Reno over to the building while Rude stayed with the helicopter. Right before they entered, Vincent stopped.

“Here.” Vincent held out a mask for Cloud to take.

“What is this for?” Cloud asked.

“There’s a lot of spilled mako in here. The air is thick with it. It also had a headlamp for seeing. All the electricity has been shut off to this site for safety reasons.” Vincent stated as he and Reno put their masks on and flicked on their lights.

Cloud nodded before putting his on. As soon as they were ready, they entered the building. The second they walked inside, Cloud’s eyes started to water. They hadn’t been joking. Even with the mask, Cloud was struggling to breath. Vincent led the way, leading them deeper and deeper into the building before they came across a lab. Cloud paused, looking around before his eyes landed on a nearby table. A table with a large light over it and a tray of tools next to it. Cloud immediately hissed and grabbed his head with his hand.

“There.” he muttered, pointing.

“Cloud?” Vincent called.

“That table. That’s the table I remember. The one Hojo used.” Cloud muttered.

Vincent looked over and nodded.

“Is there anything else that looks familiar?” Vincent asked.

Cloud swallowed before he started walking around. From the lab, there were two hallways. One led to a bunch of offices and cubicles, which had clearly been ransacked, all the desk drawers were open and empty. Cloud looked around, but nothing looked familiar here, so he moved to the other one. The other led to one office, clearly Hojo’s. Cloud swallowed hard, but nothing was familiar here either, so he headed back to the lab.

“Where is the spilled mako?” Cloud asked.

“The basement.” Reno replied.

“Show me.” Cloud demanded.

Reno glanced at Vincent, who nodded. Reno rolled his eyes, but walked over to a wall and pressed a piece of it, causing the wall to slide open. The smell of mako got heavier and Cloud tried to ignore the green in the corner of his eyes.

“After you.” Reno said.

Cloud nodded and headed downstairs. The smell got heavier and heavier, but Cloud ignored it. When he hit the bottom floor, he saw the mako pool. He looked it over and then paused.

“Wait. This is it. I remember this.” Cloud nodded as Vincent and Reno joined him.

“This is where you came through?” Vincent asked.

“Yes.” Cloud said.

In the far corner, slightly covered by boxes, Cloud saw something and moved around the pool to get to it. He grabbed the Fusion Sword’s handle and pulled it up. A quick glance over made him scowl.

“They scratched it.” he hissed angrily.

“Badly?” Reno asked.

“No, but enough that I noticed it. It won’t cause problems with the mechanisms or anything, but it’s just enough to piss me off.” Cloud stated as he placed his sword on his back.

The weight immediately made him feel better, more comfortable and confident. He hadn’t realized how insecure he had felt without his blade. Looking around again, he realized they were in some kind of storage room. He slowly turned in a circle, looking for anything that could tell him Cloud Shinra had been here.

“I still don’t see anything.” Reno said boredly, tapping his rod against his shoulder.

“Cloud, anything?” Vincent asked.

Cloud frowned and then shook his head.

“Sorry, but it just looks like a storage room to me.” Cloud admitted.

“I see. Thank you, Cloud.” Vincent nodded, but Cloud caught the barely concealed disappointment in his voice.

Vincent had really hoped Cloud would find something, hadn't he? Cloud felt bad for disappointing him, but what else could he do? He wasn’t a miracle worker. 

“Let’s return to the helicopter.” Vincent turned and went back up the stairs.

“Waste of time, yo.” Reno muttered as he followed Vincent.

Cloud’s eye twitched and he thought about tripping the red haired man, but didn’t. As they walked up the stairs, Cloud suddenly heard faint humming. He paused halfway up. Vincent and Reno noticed him stop and turned to him as Cloud pressed his ear to the wall. He could hear the machinery on the other side, despite the fact there shouldn’t be any electricity.

“Cloud?” Vincent called.

“There’s something behind here.” Cloud said as he took a step back before he lifted his foot and slammed it into the wall. 

The wall creaked, but Cloud could tell it was hollow on the other side. He pulled his foot back and slammed it into the wall again. His foot went through it.

“Yooo, another one!” Reno gasped.

Cloud pulled his leg out and peeked inside. All he saw was a glowing tank and all the machinery needed to keep it running.

“I think we found him.” Cloud said as he pulled back.

He grabbed the sides of the hole and started to rip the wall open while Vincent got on his PHS to call for backup and Reno stood tense, waiting to see if anything dangerous would attack them. As soon as the hole was big enough for somebody to enter, Cloud slipped inside. The room was small, but that didn’t really matter to him. Cloud just moved closer to the glowing green tank in the back. From what he could see, it was hooked up to its own special generator. How the damn thing lasted this long, Cloud didn’t know.

“Is that… him?” Reno whispered.

Cloud just nodded. Staring at the body in the green tank, Cloud felt sorrow in his chest. The body was little more than skin and bones. He had no hair and he was completely naked. He looked more alien than human.

“Cloud Shinra.” Vincent muttered as he stepped up to the tank, looking up to see a large “C” on a plaque above.

“You finally found him.” Cloud said softly.

“So we did. I need to call the President. Let him know we finally found the body.” Vincent stated.

“This sucks yo.” Reno mumbled.

As Vincent turned away to make his call, Cloud pressed a hand to the glass and closed his eyes. Quietly, he said a small prayer while pressing his forehead to the glass. Hoping that his death had been quick and painless. That the LifeStream here was kinder than the one back home.

“Mr. President. It’s Valentine. We found-” the rest of Vincent’s sentence was cut off when Cloud’s eyes snapped open.

“He’s alive.” Cloud whispered.

“What?” Vincent removed the PHS from his heart.

Cloud pressed his ear to the glass and focused on what he could hear.

“I hear a heartbeat. It’s faint. But he’s alive.” Cloud said urgently.

“Valentine? What is happening? What did you find?” Cloud could faintly hear Rufus demanding answers on the other end of the PHS.

“Mr. President, I will call you back.” Vincent hung up before Rufus could answer.

Cloud started searching around the tank for a panel or something. Eventually, he found one hidden and sure enough, it included a heart monitor. A heart monitor that showed…

“Holy hell, he is alive.” Reno whispered from over his shoulder.

Chapter Text

Cloud watched from the helicopter as Turks flooded the area. He watched as Vincent directed the group with strict efficiency, making sure that the scene was completely secure. There was also a helicopter with medical personnel that had gone in about ten minutes ago and were now coming out with a man on a stretcher. They watched as he was loaded into the helicopter before it took off quickly.

“Do you think he will survive?” Rude asked.

“Yes. If I did, he will.” Cloud replied evenly.

Reno opened the door to the copilot seat and sighed as he slumped down.

“So far no other fake walls have been found, but Big Boss is tearing the fucking place apart. We are going to be here a while.” Reno grumbled.

“I can help.” Cloud said, but Reno shook his head.

“Big Boss wants you to stay out of the way. If we need any more walls taken down, we will let you know.” Reno replied.

Cloud just nodded, watching as Vincent finally entered the building again.

“In that case, I’m going to clear out the nearby areas.” Cloud stated as he got up.

“Hey, hey no! Big Boss said stay here!” Reno demanded.

“Your ‘Big Boss’ isn’t the boss of me. I will be back.” Cloud walked off and Reno huffed.

“I don’t get paid enough for this.” Reno threw his hands up in the air.

Cloud walked away from the helicopter and the hidden lab to focus on the area beyond. Grabbing the handle of his blade, he focused on clearing out the area. If he had to wait, he might as well do something useful.

—sSs—

Sephiroth was eventually released from the med bay into the care of his boyfriends. As he left his room, he found Valentine waiting. Sephiroth paused, startled by the sight of him. Sephiroth had been, admittedly, out of it the first time seeing him, so seeing him for real this time was kind of confusing.

“Father?” he muttered.

Valentine stared at him before he shook his head.

“I am not your father, Sephiroth. Just a pale shadow in comparison.” Valentine replied.

Sephiroth blinked in confusion, but Angeal placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Come on, let’s head home. We can talk more there.” Angeal said gently.

Sephiroth nodded and they headed for the elevator. When they got there, however, the elevator opened revealing chaos. A gaggle of doctors and other medical personnel were crowded around a gurney. A gurney that rushed towards them, forcing them against the wall to keep from being run over. As the gurney passed by, they saw a very sickly looking man before he and the medical personnel disappeared around the corner.

“What was that?” Zack asked in surprise.

“I am not sure.” Sephiroth admitted.

“Hmph, not our issue. Let’s go.” Genesis demanded.

They entered the elevator and headed for their own floor. Leaning against the wall, Sephiroth closed his eyes as he rubbed his forehead.

“Seph?” Sephiroth opened his eyes to see all three of them looking at him.

“I am alright. Just a headache.” Sephiroth said gently.

The elevator dinged and they arrived on their own floor. Trudging into their apartment, they all let out a sigh of relief as the door closed behind them.

“I could sleep for a thousand years.” Zack said, flopping down onto the couch.

“I second that.” Genesis dropped into a chair, rubbing his forehead.

“The last few days have certainly been a roller coaster.” Angeal said as he put his sword by the door.

Sephiroth nodded as he moved towards the kitchen. A cup of tea sounded amazing right now. He brewed a pot and returned to the living room with cups for everyone. Angeal and Zack were cuddled up on the couch. Genesis was in his chair and Sephiroth took a seat in the other chair. The silence around them was more comforting than stifling. They simply enjoyed being together.

“Do you think Spikey is ok?” Zack asked as Angeal ran a hand through his hair.

“I am sure he is fine. Vincent is with him after all.” Angeal replied.

—sSs—

Cloud was not fine. It was late and getting later as he waited for someone to tell him what the fuck was going on. He had cleared out any and all monsters, mutated creatures and other things nearby just to give him something to do, but Vincent and his Turks had disappeared into the building hours ago and so far the only people left with him were Rude and Reno. Reno had yapped his ear off for several hours, but even he had fallen silent by this point.

Cloud crossed his arms, his patience wearing thin. He was tired, fighting off Jenova was no joke, but he didn’t feel comfortable taking a nap when literally anything could happen. He shifted again in his seat, only to perk up when Vincent finally appeared.

“Big Boss, we good?” Reno asked.

“We can return to Headquarters.” Vincent replied shortly.

 Cloud raised an eyebrow at his tone. Vincent caught his eye and shook his head, so Cloud kept his question to himself. Instead, Cloud just climbed into the helicopter and settled down as they took off. Cloud didn’t like it, but they flew in silence before Vincent spoke.

“It seems Hojo lied to us. Cloud Shinra fell into a coma six months ago, so he was placed in a tank. When Hojo was arrested, he assumed Cloud would just die without him. But Cloud held on. Seems he is just as stubborn as you.” Vincent explained.

“Yeah, that’s a pretty common trait in us.” Cloud smirked.

Vincent chuckled.

“Somehow it worked in our favor, so hopefully it keeps up.” Vincent replied.

Cloud nodded.

“What happens now?” Cloud asked.

“Well, I drop you back with Sephiroth and his polycule and then I…” Vincent sighed.

“Need to speak with the President.” Vincent finally said.

“Ouch. I don’t wish to be you right now.” Cloud stated.

“None of us do.” Reno called from the front seat.

“Thank you, Reno. Your contribution is noted.” Vincent said calmly.

“You’re welcome, Big Boss.” Reno snarked back.

Cloud closed his eyes and hoped they would be back soon.

—sSs—

Vincent glanced over to see Cloud was out cold, curled up slightly and breathing deeply. How strange it was, he thought, that this young man had thrown the entire company into chaos in less than a week by just existing. How one young man could have so many people wrapped around his finger so quickly, Vincent would never know. He shifted in his seat, feeling the weight of what he found in his pocket. Once they got back, he would need to speak to his counterpart about it.

Vincent was still struggling to wrap his mind around everything he had been told, but Valentine had provided a blood sample and according to the DNA test, Valentine’s human DNA matched his own. Closing his eye, he hoped this would be the last surprise they would have to deal with, but knew that was probably unlikely. As the helicopter landed, he woke Cloud up, who blinked tiredly.

“We’re back.” Vincent said.

“Hm.” Cloud muttered as he rubbed his eyes before yawning.

“What a day.” Reno groaned as he climbed out and stretched.

“VALENTINE!” a loud yell made them all look up to see Rufus storming his way towards them, Darkstar at his heels and Tseng by the door.

“Mr. President.” Vincent said pleasantly.

Rufus pulled his gun and pointed it at Vincent, making Cloud, Rude and Reno tense up. Cloud even reached for his blade while Darkstar growled.

“You better have a DAMN good explanation for ignoring me. AGAIN.” Rufus spat venomously.

Vincent raised an eyebrow.

“I do apologize, Mr. President, but unfortunately, I cannot talk about it here. If you will follow me to the Turks office, I can explain everything.” Vincent stated.

“You will explain right here, right now if you don’t want me to blow your fucking head off.” Rufus replied sharply.

Vincent nodded.

“We found Cloud Shinra.” Vincent stated.

Rufus’ eyes narrowed.

“You played that card once before, Valentine. Try again.” Rufus hissed.

Vincent raised an eyebrow.

“Mr. President. Cloud is alive. He was taken by medical personnel hours ago and according to the report I received, he has been confirmed to be Cloud Shinra. But if you need more proof…” Vincent looked at Cloud.

“I saw him myself.” Cloud stated.

“So did I!” Reno piped up, raising one hand into the air.

Rufus looked between them, his eyes searching for something. Slowly, he pulled his gun back.

“He’s in the med bay?” Rufus demanded.

“He is.” Vincent nodded.

Rufus licked his lips.

“And it’s really him?” Rufus demanded.

Vincent frowned and stepped forward.

“Mr. President, I need to make this very clear. It is Cloud, but just like before, he’s different. He is very sickly and will need a lot of support. You need to be ready for him not to remember you or for him to react poorly.” Vincent stated.

Rufus took in a deep breath.

“I still want to see him.” Rufus whispered.

Vincent nodded.

“Then I will take you to the med bay myself. I need to see him as well.” Vincent turned to Cloud, Rude and Reno.

“Rude, Reno, secure the evidence we retrieved and then you are dismissed.” Vincent said.

“Yes, Big Boss.” the two walked off.

Vincent looked at Cloud.

“Tseng will return you to Sephiroth and his polycule. Get some rest.” Vincent said as Tseng nodded.

“Alright.” Cloud said tiredly.

“Let’s go then.” Rufus demanded.

“Of course, Mr. President.” Vincent stated.

Vincent followed Rufus and Darkstar into the elevator and headed for the med bay.

—sSs—

When Rufus, Darkstar and Vincent were gone, Cloud sighed and moved closer to Tseng.

“Shall we?” Tseng asked.

Cloud looked at him.

“Look, is there like a barrack I can go to instead? I’ve taken up enough of their time and space. I don’t need anything fancy, hell a storage closet with a futon would be fine too. I’ve slept in worse. I just… don’t want to keep bothering them. Especially so late.” Cloud asked nervously.

Tseng raised an eyebrow.

“I think it would be better for you to return to the apartment with the Firsts.” Tseng replied.

“Look, I appreciate them and all their support, but I am sure they are sick of me by now.” Cloud crossed his arms.

Tseng hummed and pulled out his PHS. He pulled up a message and played it outloud.

“Hey! Tseng, buddy! Sorry I was just… we were just wondering if Spikey-I mean Cloud! If Cloud was back? Just let me know, ok?” Zack’s voice came from the PHS.

Cloud blinked, startled.

“Zack has been calling me every hour…ON the hour.” Tseng said seriously as he played another.

“Heyyyy Tseng! It’s Zack again. Listen, I know you are like a super Turk and stuff, but like can you let me know if he is coming back anytime soon? Just any kind of information would be great, thanks!” Zack’s next message asked.

Tseng played two more, both also containing Zack’s begging and pleading for information. Cloud swallowed, flushing as Zack seemed to get more and more desperate, before he finally couldn’t take it anymore.

“Ok! Ok… I got it.” Cloud muttered.

Tseng turned it off and put his PHS away.

“Then shall we?” Tseng demanded.

“Yeah…” Cloud replied.

Getting into the elevator, they traveled in silence to the Firsts’ apartment floor. When they got there, Cloud knocked lightly, hoping no one would hear it. It was late, they should be in bed. Maybe if they didn’t answer the door, Cloud could convince Tseng to take him somewhere else until tomorrow.

“Coming!” Zack called instead.

The door opened, revealing Zack’s sleepy face before he perked up.

“Spikey! You’re back!” Zack hugged him tightly and Cloud blinked before hugging back.

“Yeah, sorry it took so long.” Cloud replied.

“Zack? Did you say Cloud was back?” Angeal called.

“Yeah!” Zack all, but dragged Cloud into the apartment, startling both Cloud and Tseng.

“Have a good night, Tseng!” Zack said before kicking the door closed in Tseng’s face.

Cloud faintly heard an annoyed “have a good night” before he heard Tseng walking away. Cloud finally managed to extract himself from Zack to turn and find Angeal, Genesis and Sephiroth staring at him.

“Welcome back.” Sephiroth said.

“Ah, thanks.” Cloud mumbled.

Zack let out a loud gasp, making Cloud flinch a bit.

“Waitttt! Is that it? Is that your sword?!” Zack asked, staring at the sword on his back.

“Oh, yeah.” Cloud pulled it off his back and held it out.

“Oh my.” Genesis muttered.

“That is quite the blade. A rather familiar shape too.” Angeal stated, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

“Can I hold it?” Zack asked, eyes starry.

“Sure, just don’t drop it.” Cloud replied, holding the handle out.

Zack squealed in delight and grabbed it, only to yelp when he almost fell over.

“Zack?” Angeal called, worriedly.

“I-It’s so heavy!” Zack replied, sweating as he tried to lift it.

“Heavy? It can’t be that heavy! Let me see.” Genesis demanded.

“Fine, just don’t drop it.” Cloud demanded, crossing his arms.

Genesis took the handle from Zack, but the second Zack let go, Genesis grunted.

“O-Oh! It is heavy!” Genesis strained, trying to lift it, but eventually shook his head.

Cloud took the sword back with one hand and raised an eyebrow.

“I can’t imagine you can wield such a heavy blade in battle!” Genesis stated, arms crossed.

“Allow me. I am sure my Buster Sword is about the same heaviness.” Angeal asked.

Cloud handed it over and Angeal grunted, startled. He was at least able to lift it, but that was about it. 

“May I?” Sephiroth asked.

“Sure.” Cloud shrugged.

Angeal handed it over and Sephiroth hummed, but was able to at least swing it with one hand. He eyed it before handing it back to Cloud.

“I will admit, I doubt I would be able to use it in battle.” Sephiroth stated.

“Unless you wish to just bludgeon someone to death.” Genesis replied.

“Hm, maybe you would have more luck using one of the pieces. Hold on.” Cloud pulled one of the blades off and held it out.

“WAITTTTTT! That sword can come apart?!” Zack asked excitedly.

“No way. That would greatly weaken it.” Angeal said seriously.

“But dual wielding would be incredibly useful and would catch any enemy off guard.” Sephiroth said.

“Oh, it doesn’t just come apart once. It’s actually six blades in one. Watch.” Cloud said.

The group watched in awe as Cloud carefully, but swiftly took the whole thing apart, laying the blades out on the coffee table (Genesis was too amazed to make a snarky comment about it) until he was done. Zack looked like Christmas just came early, Genesis looked like he had seen the goddess Minvera with his own two eyes, Angeal looked like he was still processing what he was seeing and Sephiroth seemed delighted.

“That is incredible . Where did you find such a blade?” Sephiroth asked, categorizing each of the blades before him.

“Hm? Oh, I made it.” Cloud replied, his eyes scanning the blades and mechanisms to make sure nothing was damaged.

“You what?” Angeal squeaked.

“I created it. I came up with the concept, went to a blacksmith, learned how to forge swords and then created it.” Cloud stated.

The group stared at him blankly.

“You… made it.” Sephiroth said slowly.

Cloud seemed confused by their confusion.

“The Buster Sword was passed to me when Zack died. I used it to stop Sephiroth in his honor, but once he was gone, I used it for a memorial. I decided to move forward with my own blade, made by my own hands. I wanted something that could be broken down to use in multiple different ways, but could also come together in various ways as well. Hence, the six blades.” Cloud explained.

Zack was practically vibrating.

“You absolutely HAVE to teach me how to use it!” Zack demanded.

Cloud blinked, startled.

“Uhh sure?” Cloud said before yawning.

Angeal coughed.

“Maybe tomorrow. It’s been a long day and I am sure Cloud is exhausted. In fact, we all are. So I suggest we settle down for the night and we can talk more in the morning.” Angeal stated.

“That sounds good.” Sephiroth agreed.

“I want to hear everything about how you came up with this tomorrow, little bird.” Genesis said.

“Sure.” Cloud nodded.

“If you want, you can put it on the sword rack by the door.” Angeal stated.

Cloud paused, startled before he slowly put the swords back together. He said nothing as he walked to the door and eyed the rack before putting his sword on it. Cloud let out a breath.

“Come on, Cloud. I got a fresh set of pjs with your name on them!” Zack held out a hand and Cloud blinked at it before taking his hand.

“That sounds… nice.”

—sSs—

A being floated above the city, his eyes taking in the vile creatures down below.

“How… repulsive.” he said.

To think, he had come so close to wiping these miserable beings off his planet and yet, here they were once more! Disgusting. But that just meant he would have to try even harder this time. But before that, he needed to focus. Closing his eyes, he felt for the connection, the one person in this world he needed more than anything. The connection between them was weak, but that didn’t matter. His eyes opened and he turned to the west.

“I found you… Cloud.” Sephiroth smiled before he flew off.

Chapter Text

Rufus let out a breath, staring into the room. His mind was quiet as he stared at the man in the bed.

“That’s… him?” Rufus asked.

Vincent nodded.

“According to the DNA test, yes.” Vincent said quietly.

Rufus nodded slowly, petting Darkstar’s head.

“He’s… so thin.” Rufus whispered.

“It seems he fell into a coma and Hojo basically washed his hands of him. He thought Cloud would die, but it seems he is just as stubborn as his counterpart.” Vincent said.

Rufus nodded slowly.

“He was always stubborn. Even when we were kids. It was his best and worst trait.” Rufus whispered.

“That it was.” Vincent agreed.

The two stood in silence before Rufus spoke again.

“I’m no longer looking for justice, Valentine. I want Hojo to be locked away in the deepest, darkest pit we can find. I want him to suffer.” Rufus demanded.

“Yes, Mr. President.” Vincent agreed.

Rufus turned away from the glass and walked over to a chair on the opposite wall. He sat down.

“I will be right here until he wakes up. I won’t leave him again.” Rufus said.

“He will have around the clock security.” Vincent replied.

“I don’t care about that. I want the first face he sees to be mine.” Rufus stated.

“Very well, Mr. President.” Vincent bowed his head.

—sSs—

The next morning, Cloud woke up to the smell of coffee as his door opened.

“Good morning, Angeal made breakfast.” Sephiroth stated, holding a mug in his hand.

Cloud sat up and rubbed his eye.

“Thanks.” Cloud muttered as he took the mug.

“Angeal banned Zack from waking you up after last time.” Sephiroth answered his unspoken question.

“Probably a good idea. Zack almost got a lamp to the face.” Cloud stated as he got out of bed.

Sephiroth paused and then let out a slight snort before he coughed into his fist.

“Don’t. Even.” Cloud said coldly, standing there in Zack’s Golden Saucer Chocobo set.

“Just… come to the kitchen when you are ready.” Sephiroth said before swiftly leaving the room.

Cloud rolled his eyes before grabbing his clothes and changing. When he was done, he ran a hand through his hair to tame it before grabbing his mug and heading for the kitchen.

“Good morning!” the group said as he walked in.

“Morning.” he replied as he sat down.

Idly, he wondered where the fifth chair came from, but decided it wasn’t his problem. Angeal handed him a stack of pancakes, making Cloud blink.

“Oh, I don’t need this many.” Cloud muttered.

“Hm? Are you sure? There is plenty to go around.” Angeal said.

“Angeal always makes enough for a small army.” Zack agreed while Angeal shot him a glare.

“Yeah. Not to be rude or anything, but my stomach is pretty small and I don’t want to waste food.” Cloud stated.

“Oh… is food hard to come by in the other world?” Angeal asked, gently removing some pancakes from his plate.

“Pretty much. After the meteor destroyed Midgar, we did what we could. But most farms and factories were wiped out.” Cloud replied.

“Meteor?” Sephiroth asked, confused.

“Sephiroth in my world called upon a meteor to destroy all humanity. We stopped it, but it still caused enough damage to make food hard to get. Jenova tainting the LifeStream didn’t help either.” Cloud explained.

“How do you all survive?” Zack asked in shock.

Cloud shrugged.

“You do what you can. You protect your people and build what you need to survive.” Cloud stated.

“I see.” Sephiroth muttered before sipping his coffee.

“Damn, Spikey. You really had it rough, huh?” Zack asked sadly.

“Not any harder than anyone else.” Cloud replied.

“ Infinite in mystery is the gift of the Goddess. I cannot even picture the world you describe.” Genesis stated.

“It’s certainly something.” Angeal agreed.

The ringing of a PHS caused everyone to check their pockets before Zack let out a cheer as he pulled out his.

“Oh! Hey! Aerith! How are you?” Zack said excitedly.

“Hi Zack, can you put Cloud on the phone pretty please?” Aerith asked.

Zack blinked rapidly.

“Ummm Aerith, how…?” Zack muttered, staring at Cloud, who looked wide eyed.

“Just put him on the phone or put me on speaker! Please!” Aerith said, her voice somewhat begging.

Zack slowly put his phone down and pressed the speaker.

“Aerith?” Cloud called, his voice shaking.

“Hi Cloud.” Aerith said sweetly.

Cloud’s fork hit the plate and he looked a bit pale.

“Cloud?” Angeal pressed a hand to Cloud’s shoulder, who nodded.

“I’m ok. I’m ok. I just… it’s been a long time. Aerith.” Cloud said gently.

“It has been. And I’m sorry… for what happened in the other world.” Aerith said softly.

Cloud swallowed and looked a bit teary.

“Why are you apologizing? I was the one who…” Cloud shook his head.

“Cloud, you couldn’t have saved me, no matter what you did. It was meant to be. It had to happen.” Aerith explained.

“Save?” Zack mouthed to Sephiroth, who shook his head sharply.

“I understand, but it still hurts.” Cloud replied.

“I know. But I’m calling to warn you, Cloud.” Aerith’s voice became very serious.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed.

“What is it, Aerith? Do you need me? I can come to you if you want. Just tell me where to go.” Cloud said slowly standing up.

“No, no! You need to stay where you are!” Aerith said urgently.

Cloud blinked.

“Zack, are you still there?” Aerith called.

“Oh, yeah! I am!” Zack said quickly, startled about being addressed.

“Are all your boyfriends there too?” Aerith asked, making Cloud flush a bit.

“Hello Aerith.” Sephiroth said pleasantly.

“Good morning, Aerith.” Angeal greeted.

“Good morning, my dear flower.” Genesis said dramatically.

“Hello everyone! I’m sorry for cutting into your breakfast, but this is very important! So please listen up!” Aerith stated.

“We are listening, Aerith.” Angeal said.

“Good, because Jenova isn’t quite done yet.” Aerith said seriously.

All five of them stopped dead.

“What do you mean?” Cloud asked slowly.

“The Son of Calamity is here and he is looking for you.” Aerith said.

Cloud slumped back into his seat, eyes wide.

“Sephiroth… is here?” Cloud whispered.

“Yes.” Aerith said softly.

Cloud licked his lips.

“He followed me here. He used our connection to follow me to a completely different world. This is…” Cloud shook his head before straightening up.

Aerith was quiet for a moment and Cloud nodded, running a shaking hand through his hair.

“I’ll stop him, Aerith. I did it before and I will do it again. Don’t worry, I won’t let him destroy this world too.” Cloud stated.

“Cloud, stop!” Aerith demanded.

Cloud blinked, confused.

“You have done enough and I don’t expect you to stop him again, not alone anyway. That’s why I am asking Zack and his boyfriends to fight with you.” Aerith said seriously.

Cloud glanced around the table, before shaking his head.

“I can’t ask them to do that. Not against him.” Cloud replied.

“What if we want to help?” Angeal asked.

Cloud seemed taken aback.

“What? But!” Cloud started, but Sephiroth cut him off.

“If this… creature is as dangerous as you have said, then it is our job to stop him. This is our world and we want it to stay just the way it is.” Sephiroth said seriously.

“Yeah!” Zack agreed.

“And besides, it would lower our status if we don’t help.” Genesis stated.

Cloud looked around at them, somewhat helplessly. Zack reached across the table and grabbed his hand.

“You don’t have to fight him alone, not anymore! Promise!” Zack said.

Cloud swallowed.

“I-I don’t want him to kill you. Any of you.” Cloud whispered.

“You seem to forget that we are First class SOLDIERS. He can try, but he will fail.” Genesis said dismissively.

“Cloud.” Aerith called again.

Cloud turned his attention back to the phone.

“This fight isn’t just your’s anymore. This is now our fight too. So please, let us help you.” Aerith said gently.

Cloud rubbed his mouth.

“It’s been my fight for so long… I don’t know how.” Cloud admitted.

“Come on, Spikey! Between the five of us, we got this!” Zack said brightly.

Cloud looked around the table before nodding.

“I will… try.” Cloud said slowly.

“Great! That’s all we can ask of you, Cloud! Thank you!” Aerith said.

“Don’t thank me yet. We have to find him first.” Cloud sighed.

“Well, I don’t think you have to look very hard.” Aerith admitted sheepishly.

Everyone looked at the PHS confused before Cloud sighed.

“So he’s coming to me. That’s fine.” Cloud said determined.

“Just be careful, ok?” Aerith asked.

“Don’t worry, Aerith! We got this!” Zack said cheerfully.

With some final goodbyes, they hung up with Aerith. Cloud pushed his plate forward, suddenly not hungry as he bowed his head and buried his hands in his hair. Everyone seemed to be waiting for him to speak as no one touched their breakfast.

“I need to tell Vincent.” Cloud said quietly.

“Why don’t you take a second to collect yourself? Sephiroth will call his Father and ask to speak with him.” Genesis said gently.

Cloud gave a jerky nod before he got up and left the kitchen. The four men watched him go with clear worry. Cloud walked over to the bathroom and stepped inside, closing the door behind him. He just wanted a moment of privacy, of peace, before everything went to hell. With a shuddering sigh, he walked over to the sink and started the water. 

Waiting for the water to warm up slightly, he pulled off his gloves and put them aside before cupping his hands, letting them fill with water before he splashed his face. He did this a few times before he leaned on the sink, letting the water drip before he looked up.

“Hello, Cloud.” Sephiroth whispered in the mirror.

Cloud’s fist shot out and he smashed the glass before he stumbled back, his eyes wide as he gasped. The mirror’s pieces dropped into the sink, but there was still a large enough piece that Cloud could see half of Sephiroth’s face.

“Poor puppet. So frightened.” Sephiroth said, mockingly.

“Leave me ALONE!” Cloud yelled.

A sudden frantic knock at the door made Cloud jump.

“Cloud! Cloud, are you ok!” Zack’s concerned voice called through the door.

Cloud stared before he turned back to the mirror and found his own terrified face staring back at him.

—sSs—

As soon as Cloud had left the room, Sephiroth pulled out his PHS and sent a message to Vincent.

Sephiroth: We need to speak with the other you.

Sephiroth: Urgently.

Father: What happened?

Sephiroth stared at the message before sighing and rubbing his eyes.

“I don’t even know what to tell him.” Sephiroth admitted.

“Just tell him it’s about Cloud… Cloud Strife, I mean. I am sure he’ll understand.” Angeal replied.

“That is true.” Sephiroth stated.

Sephiroth: It’s about Cloud Strife.

Father: Alright

Father: Head to the office when ready.

“Father says to bring him to the Turks office.” Sephiroth stated.

“Let’s give him a moment and then we can go.” Angeal said.

Zack was staring worriedly at the entrance to the kitchen before Genesis reached over and grabbed his hand.

“It will be alright, Puppy. He just needs a moment. The arrow has left the bow of the goddess. ” Genesis said gently.

Zack glanced at Genesis before giving him a shaky smile. That smile quickly died when they heard a crash.

“Spikey!” Zack shot to his feet and rushed to the bathroom.

“Leave me ALONE!” Cloud’s yell came from the other side of the door.

“Cloud! Cloud, are you ok!” Zack called, banging on the door.

Cloud jerked the door open and he was even paler than he had been a minute ago. Looking behind him, all they could see was a broken mirror and glass in the sink.

“Your hand!” Zack quickly grabbed Cloud’s bleeding hand, taking in the shards buried in the skin.

“I-I’m sorry. I saw… I thought… nevermind.” Cloud shook his head, trying to pull his hand back.

“Here, let’s get your hand cleaned up.” Angeal took Cloud and led him to the kitchen.

Angeal shot the other three a look and they quickly moved into the bathroom, removing the broken mirror from the wall and clearing out the glass. Zack brought Angeal the first aid kit while Angeal helped clean Cloud’s hand in the kitchen sink, pulling the larger glass shards out as he went. Cloud was quiet, but his eyes were miles away.

“I’m sorry.” Cloud eventually said as Angeal wrapped his hand.

“It’s alright. That mirror was ugly anyway. I had been meaning to replace it.” Angeal said gently, trying to get a laugh.

Cloud just kept his eyes lowered and Angeal frowned, glancing at Zack before he finished wrapping the bandage. Sephiroth and Genesis came back a short time later.

“I spoke to my father. He said for us to head to the Turks office.” Sephiroth explained.

“Right, let’s go.” Cloud muttered.

The trip to the Turks office was tense, but when they got there, they found Vincent, Valentine, Elena, Cissnei, Tseng, Reno and Rude.

“Yo!” Reno called.

No one replied and he frowned.

“Ouch, icy.” Reno muttered.

“Sephiroth, what happened?” Vincent demanded.

Cloud stepped forward.

“Sephiroth is coming.” Cloud stated.

Everyone looked at him and then at Sephiroth standing behind him.

“Uh?” Elena said slowly.

Cloud sighed roughly.

“Not this Sephiroth. The other Sephiroth.” Cloud hissed.

Valentine straightened up.

“He’s here? How is that possible?” Valentine asked.

Cloud scowled.

“According to Aerith, he followed our connection and he is still following it. He is looking for me.” Cloud stated.

Valentine’s eyes narrowed.

“How close is he?” Valentine demanded.

Cloud swallowed and looked down, ashamed.

“The hallucinations are already starting.” Cloud admitted.

“Hallucinations?” Vincent muttered, worriedly.

“Like I said, Hojo pumped me full of S-cells. He wanted Sephiroth to be able to… control me whenever he wanted. And he knows how to use it. The hallucinations are just the start.” Cloud explained.

“Control? You said it was to make you into an anchor, to bring him back, nothing about control.” Tseng said, eyes narrowing.

“It’s both. A way to keep Sephiroth from ever fully disappearing and giving him a toy to play with when he got bored with global domination.” Cloud replied coldly.

A few people made a face at the “toy” comment. Zack pressed a hand to Cloud’s back in support.

“So what should we be on the lookout for?” Rude asked.

Cloud looked at Valentine, who sighed.

“Believe me, you will know when you see him.” Valentine stated.

“That’s not ominous or anything.” Elena whispered.

“Sephiroth doesn’t care how it feels to us. He has one goal and that’s it. I am not 100% sure if he even knows Jenova is gone in this world. Or if he knows this is a different world period. Either way, he’s dangerous.” Cloud explained.

“So we will keep an eye on all entrances and exits on the first few levels. At least we won’t miss him.” Vincent said.

Cloud and Valentine shared a look.

“I would suggest keeping an eye on all entrances and exits in the entire building.” Valentine replied.

Vincent raised an eyebrow. 

“Unless he can climb walls, I don’t think we need to spread ourselves that thin.” Vincent said.

“He can fly.” Valentine replied.

Everyone stared at him blankly.

“I’m sorry?” Tseng finally said.

“Sephiroth. He can fly.” Cloud said slowly.

“Fly…” Cissnei said slowly.

“He has a wing. That was a part of the degradation.” Cloud replied.

“What the- Are we in that stupid fucking play, Loveless? What is happening!” Reno demanded.

“Hey!” Genesis snapped.

“A wing.” Angeal whispered like he couldn’t believe it.

“All three of the generals gained a wing after they started to degrade. We are not 100% sure why that happened, but we believe it was some kind of mutation from Jenova. The point is that Sephiroth can fly, which means he can come in through any opening in the building, no matter how high up.” Valentine said.

“Plus, he isn’t exactly against cutting his way inside.” Cloud replied.

“He has a weapon?” Sephiroth asked.

“He has Masamune.” Cloud replied.

Sephiroth blinked.

“So let me get this straight: Sephiroth, the man who brought down a meteor, is on his way here for Cloud. How do we stop him?” Vincent demanded.

“I kill him again. That’s the only way.” Cloud stated.

“Which we will help you with.” Angeal said, stepping up.

Cloud shook his head.

“I understand that is what Aerith believes is the best idea, but I have killed him before and I will do it again. Alone.” Cloud said seriously.

“You almost didn’t survive last time.” Valentine stated.

Cloud shot him a furious look when the whole group looked at him in concern.

“I was weakened by the Geostigma. I am not weak now.” Cloud replied.

“We have no idea what Hojo did to you.” Valentine stated.

Cloud glared at him darkly.

“I have fought Sephiroth weakened, bleeding, half comatose and STILL won, Vincent.” Cloud spat venomously.

“But you don’t have to.” Angeal stated, stepping forward.

“Little bird, if you wish to be the one to get the final hit, then be our guest.” Genesis said.

“But allow us to make the path easier for you.” Sephiroth nodded.

“Yeah! We’ll set him up so you can knock him back to the LifeStream where he belongs!” Zack agreed.

Cloud stared at them, startled by their support, but also warmed by it. For a moment, his heart longed for Tifa and his gang. His friends that had fought alongside him for so long. He wondered if they were ok. If they even knew he was missing. He hoped Tifa hadn’t cried for him. Valentine’s next words broke him from his thoughts.

“Cloud. You have fought Sephiroth and won every time, but that has you convinced you need to do it alone to protect everyone else. Because you still hold Aerith’s death against yourself. Her death was not something you could have stopped.” Valentine said.

“But I could have-!” Cloud was cut off.

“Our dear Aerith said it herself. Her counterpart was meant to die.” Genesis said.

The Turks looked completely alarmed by this, but Vincent decided to speak to his counterpart later. Cloud’s hand clenched to fists. Zack moved closer and grabbed one hand, gently pulling on his fingers until they uncurled. Cloud looked at him and Zack smiled.

“You’ve done enough. Let us help.” Zack said gently.

Cloud’s shoulders slowly released.

“Ok.” he whispered.

Zack beamed and threw an arm around his shoulders, hugging him tightly.

“Thanks, Spikey! I promise, you won’t be alone!” Zack said.

Vincent coughed.

“Now, what else do we need to know about this other Sephiroth? Any additional abilities he might have?” Vincent asked.

Cloud sighed.

“Sephiroth’s focus is on his own strength and ability. He will attempt to force his control over me, but I am pretty good at throwing him off by now. We just need to take him down quickly and keep the casualties to a minimum.” Cloud stated.

“Then let’s get started on a plan.” Sephiroth said.

Chapter Text

Rufus snorted as his head slipped from his hand, waking him up. Blinking his eyes open, he sighed when he realized he was still in the med bay. Groaning as he sat up, he rolled his neck, trying to get the kinks out.

“Coffee?” Rufus blinked and looked up to see Tseng standing there, a cup in hand.

“Please tell me this isn’t the sludge from the med bay cafeteria.” Rufus said, taking it.

Tseng said nothing and Rufus sighed, but drank it. His lips twitched at the taste, but he needed it. Rufus shifted in his seat, sighing when he saw there was no update with his brother.

“What do you think, Tseng?” Rufus asked.

“You will have to be more specific, Mr. President.” Tseng replied.

“About Cloud… my brother. Do you think he will ever wake up? Or am I just wasting resources on a man doomed to die?” Rufus asked softly.

Tseng hummed.

“I think if Mr. Strife has taught us anything, it is that people will surprise you.” Tseng stated.

Rufus paused, thoughtful.

“I suppose so.” Rufus admitted.

At that moment, one of the doctors stepped into the hallway, before pausing.

“Mr. President. Good morning.” Dr. Wyld said with a bow of her head.

“Dr. Wyld.” Rufus stood up.

He knew he probably didn’t look super professional right now, but one of the reasons Dr. Wyld had been placed as the head of the med bay was she was a straight forward, no nonsense, could care less about your appearance, kind of woman.

“I am going to do my checks of his vitals. You are welcome to stay out here, but please do not step inside.” she demanded.

Both Tseng and Rufus nodded as she stepped inside the room. They watched from the window as she checked all of his machines, took notes and even opened his eyes to shine a light in them. She straightened up, nodded and stepped back outside.

“How is he?” Rufus asked.

Dr. Wyld looked at him.

“Mr. President, I am not going to sit here and lie to you. Your brother is in rough shape. I can see a very long, very tedious path towards recovery.” she paused, allowing that to sink in.

“I see.” Rufus muttered.

Dr. Wyld waited for him to speak. Eventually, Rufus asked the question that everyone wanted to know.

“Doctor. Just be honest with me. What are his chances?” Rufus asked.

Dr. Wyld sighed.

“Mr. President. There is a very good chance he might be permanently disabled. His body has been through hell and might never recover properly. That is if he wakes up, which… I can’t say if he will wake up tomorrow or ten years from now.” Dr. Wyld stated seriously.

Rufus stared at her before looking at his brother.

“I understand.” Rufus said.

“Mr. President, if I may.” Tseng stated.

“Yes, Tseng?” Rufus turned to him.

“This may be… a stretch, but perhaps we ask Mr. Strife to come?” Tseng asked.

“Mr. Strife? The young man who put several of my colleagues in the med bay themselves?” Dr. Wyld didn’t seem overly enthusiastic about the idea one bit.

“He has also suffered severe mako poisoning. Perhaps he can give us some kind of idea on what to expect?” Tseng explained.

Dr. Wyld raised an eyebrow.

“Mr. Tseng, I have studied mako poisoning extensively. In fact, I am the leading expert on mako poisoning and how it affects the body. I believe there is nothing he would know that I don’t.” Dr. Wyld explained.

“But he has suffered from it. He was a victim under Hojo as well. He has the exact same DNA, so perhaps he can give a first person insight on what to expect.” Tseng replied.

Dr. Wyld hummed and glanced at the data in her notes.

“I think it is worth a shot. Tseng, call Zack and ask him to send Mr. Strife here.” Rufus demanded.

“Yes sir.” Tseng bowed before he pulled his phone and walked away.

With Tseng gone, Rufus turned to the doctor.

“Let’s talk one on one.”

—sSs—

“The med bay? You are heading to the med bay?” Angeal asked, confused.

Cloud sighed as he grabbed his sword and put it on his back. After going over the plan with the Turks, including what they should expect if Cloud did fall under Sephiroth’s control, the group had returned to the apartment with the idea that they would take a moment to breathe, but then Zack had gotten a call from Tseng, wanting to talk to Cloud. After a very short, tense conversation, Cloud had agreed to meet him in the med bay.

“Tseng said that the doctor treating Cloud Shinra wants to speak with me and see if I can help them figure out a treatment for him. At the very least, I can give them some pointers.” Cloud stated.

“Do you wish for one of us to go with you?” Sephiroth asked.

Cloud blinked before shaking his head.

“No, I’m ok. It’s going to get a bit… personal. So I would rather go alone.” Cloud stated.

“If you say so.” Sephiroth said worriedly.

“I’ll be fine. I promise.” Cloud replied.

“Ok, but if you need us, give us a call.” Angeal stated.

Cloud stared at him funny.

“I don’t have a PHS.” Cloud replied.

Angeal blinked and then looked pointedly at Genesis, who stared at him before wincing.

“I forgot.” he muttered.

Angeal sighed and pulled out his own PHS before handing it over.

“Genesis was supposed to stop and get you a PHS, but for now, you can use mine and we will work on getting you one.” Angeal explained.

“Are you sure?” Cloud asked worriedly.

“We would feel better being able to contact you if need be.” Sephiroth nodded.

Cloud eyed them and then held out his hand for the PHS. Angeal placed it in his palm.

“Thanks.” Cloud mumbled.

“Be safe. Sephiroth, Angeal and I have a meeting. We will be a few floors above you, but if you need us, we can get to you quickly.” Genesis explained.

“I have training with some Thirds on the 31st, but same! I’ll run up the stairs if I have to!” Zack said brightly.

Cloud nodded and then quickly left. Genesis raised an eyebrow.

“Our little bird is still quick to run.” Genesis stated.

“Gen.” Angeal said warningly.

“Oh, come now, Angeal. It’s a little cute.” Genesis smirked.

“He is kind of cute.” Zack agreed.

“Very cute.” Sephiroth nodded.

Angeal just threw his hands up in the air.

—sSs—

Stepping into the elevator, Cloud sighed and closed his eyes as he leaned back against the wall. The morning had been rather long and while Cloud was still very shaken about speaking to Aerith earlier, it was also strangely comforting to hear her voice again. Perhaps he could ask Zack to take him to see her? But if he did that, would he be able to control his emotions? Cloud shook his head.

As he stood there, in the empty elevator, he tried to ignore the shadow staring at him from the corner. The phantom with a mocking smile and cold eyes. The same phantom that had followed them from the Turks’ office.

“Ignoring me won’t make me go away, puppet.” the phantom whispered mockingly.

“Focus.” he mumbled to himself.

He let out a sigh and straightened up as the elevator stopped. The doors opened to reveal Tseng.

“Mr. Strife.” Tseng nodded.

“Tseng.” Cloud replied.

Tseng said nothing more, just turned on his heel and led Cloud to the room where Cloud Shinra was laying. As Cloud got closer, he saw Rufus waiting there with a doctor Cloud vaguely remembered. They stopped.

“Mr. Strife.” Rufus nodded.

Cloud nodded back before turning his attention to the doctor, who looked rather nervous.

“M-Mr. Strife. My name is Doctor Wyld. I am the doctor in charge of Mr. Shinra’s recovery.” she said, her voice shaking a bit.

Cloud blinked and then realized she was one of the doctors he had almost attacked when he escaped the med bay. Cloud coughed into his fist and shifted backwards uncomfortably on his feet.

“Nice to meet you, Doctor and sorry… about the other day. I ummm am not good with doctors… or hospitals… or lab coats.” he muttered, staring at her white coat.

She blinked, apparently startled.

“I see. Would you feel better if I remove my coat?” she asked.

“I would appreciate it, yes. I’m sure you already know, but I was a victim of Hojo…” Cloud paused, swallowing hard.

The doctor nodded. She swiftly removed her coat and placed it on a nearby chair. Cloud could feel himself relax slightly.

“There. Now what can you tell me about what we should expect?” she asked, pulling out a pen.

Cloud crossed his arms as he nodded.

“The first time I was poisoned, it was awful. For me, it was like… I was there, but I wasn’t. I was conscious and able to tell things were happening around me, but I had no control over my limbs, no ability to even hold my own head up. When I finally managed to gain control of my limbs, it was jerky, harsh movements. Relearning how to move properly was very rough, but I did have someone helping me by moving my joints and keeping me going. But the worst part was my memory.” Cloud paused, waiting for her to finish writing everything down.

“I see. Go on.” she nodded.

“My memory… my mind was… chaos. I… forgot who I was. Lost pieces of myself I will probably never get back. At one point… I became convinced I was someone else. My mind made up new memories to make up for the pieces I had missing. That was the hardest part for me. Figuring out who I was afterwards. Figuring out what pieces were me and what weren’t.” Cloud finished softly.

“I see. Memory loss and memory confusion has been noted as a common issue with those suffering severe mako poisoning.” Dr. Wyld nodded.

“It’s not just confusion. It’s like having pieces of ideas and an understanding of who you are supposed to be, but having no base. Having no idea how they all come together. Like a shattered mirror with pieces missing.” Cloud explained.

“Hmmm, so it would be detrimental to interact with family members?” Tseng asked.

Rufus shot him a furious look, but Cloud just sighed.

“People have expectations and ideas of who a person is vs who they might actually be. It’s hard to tell the difference.” Cloud stated.

“I understand.” Dr. Wyld nodded.

Cloud turned to look in the room before he moved closer to the window. Seeing his own counterpart look so weak, so frail and so broken, he wished there was something more he could do. That’s when he remembered something that made his stomach turn, but maybe…?

“Do you think…?” Cloud paused and frowned.

“Do I think?” Dr. Wyld pressed.

“Can I get closer?” Cloud asked.

Dr. Wyld frowned deeply, but looked at Rufus to see what he would say. Rufus hummed lightly and crossed his arms.

“For what reason?” Rufus demanded.

Cloud sighed and turned to them.

“When Hojo uses someone in an experiment, especially one involving Jenova or Sephiroth, he gives them a number.” Cloud explained.

“No markings were found on the body.” Dr. Wyld replied.

“He might not have a mark on him, but Cloud will know.” Cloud stated.

“Cloud is unconscious.” Rufus said coldly.

“It’s a subconscious thing. Just one question, that’s all I ask.” Cloud replied.

Rufus took in a deep breath before giving a jerky nod.

“One. That’s it.” he stated.

Cloud turned and entered the room. The smell and sounds overwhelmed him for a moment, but he shook his head and moved to Cloud Shinra’s side. Cloud stared at him before he leaned down.

“What is your number.” Cloud demanded.

For a second, nothing happened, but then the heartbeat monitor started to rise. Cloud waited, but when he didn’t answer, Cloud frowned.

“What is your number.” Cloud demanded again.

His heartbeat started to escalate along with other vitals.

“What is happening!” Rufus demanded from the doorway.

Cloud ignored him.

“What is your number.” Cloud demanded again.

The heartbeat monitor was going wild and the doctor quickly rushed into the room.

“Stop! His body can’t handle it!” she demanded.

Cloud ignored her, focusing completely on the other Cloud.

“Number!” Cloud shouted.

“Get him out of here!” Dr. Wyld yelled as Tseng moved inside and tried to grab Cloud.

“7.” a soft voice cut through the chaos.

They all looked down to see one green eye was open.

“7.” Cloud Shinra whispered again.

Cloud reached out and placed a hand on his arm.

“Welcome back, 7.” Cloud said gently.

Cloud Shinra stared at him blankly.

“What is your name.” Cloud asked.

Cloud Shinra’s brow furrowed.

“7?” he whispered, confused.

“No. That is your number. What is your name.” Cloud insisted.

Cloud Shinra stared before a small tear rolled down his face.

“C-Cloud.” he replied.

“Yes. Yes it is.” Cloud took a step back.

Cloud Shinra’s eyes followed him before they drifted past him to see…

“R-Rufus?” Cloud Shinra called.

Rufus, standing in the doorway, stared back before slowly moving closer.

“Cloud.” Rufus whispered.

Cloud looked at the brothers before turning and leaving the room. Cloud walked over to the wall and leaned against it. It didn’t take long for Tseng to join him. They stood in silence for a moment before Rufus left the room. Rufus looked at Cloud and nodded.

“Thank you.” Rufus whispered.

“How did you know?” Tseng asked.

Cloud sighed and crossed his arms.

“Failures don’t get numbers. I was a failure, so I never got one. But I knew if he wasn’t a failure, he would have one and that would wake him up. Hojo didn’t have a use for names.” Cloud stated.

“Vile man.” Rufus whispered.

Dr. Wyld stepped outside and looked at Cloud.

“Thank you, Mr. Strife. For your assistance.” Dr. Wyld said.

“No problem. Like I said, I just… been there before.” Cloud stated.

Dr. Wyld nodded before looking at Rufus.

“Mr. President, with Mr. Shinra awake, we will need to go over some of his treatment plan with you. If you could follow me to my office please?” Dr. Wyld stated.

“Of course. I want to know everything.” Rufus agreed.

Rufus glanced at Tseng and Cloud.

“I will call for you when I need you. Dismissed.” Rufus said before he left with the doctor.

Cloud raised an eyebrow before sighing. Tseng turned to him.

“Would you like to return to the apartment?” Tseng asked.

Before Cloud could answer, his eyes suddenly filled with green static as he grabbed his head. Tseng seemed alarmed, but all Cloud could hear was…

“I found you, puppet.”

—sSs—

Genesis, Angeal and Sephiroth watched boredly as the meeting went on. What was the meeting about? None of them really knew. They had changed topics so many times at this point that even Sephiroth had lost track. As of right now, Genesis was mentally reading Loveless, Angeal was busy making notes about a training program for the newest SOLDIER batch and Sephiroth was creating a grocery list for dinner tonight.

“Ok, enough. We are getting too heated. Let us take a short break, grab some coffee and come back in about half an hour.” one of the members suddenly said before the group collectively got up.

“Oh thank Gaia.” Genesis mumbled as the Generals stood up.

“Gen.” Angeal said warningly.

“Angeal, I agree with Genesis. I was wondering if they were going to start arguing about bathroom colors for the new addition next.” Sephiroth said quietly.

The two other Generals snorted, caught off guard by his joke. Sephiroth just smirked as he led the way out of the room.

“I could use some coffee, who else would like some?” Sephiroth asked.

Both Angeal and Genesis raised their hands.

“Alright, I’ll be right back. Being the Silver General means I get to cut the line.” Sephiroth said with a smirk before he walked off.

“The power is going to his head.” Genesis teased.

“It’s fine as long as he uses it for good and not evil.” Angeal chuckled as he shook his head before he noticed something strange outside the window at the far end of the hall.

“Black feathers?” Angeal mumbled curiously.

“Hm? What are you looking at, Angeal?” Genesis turned his head.

The two of them watched as a figure appeared just outside the large window. Angeal and Genesis’ stomachs both dropped when green eyes met their’s before the figure sliced open the glass, causing it to explode inward. Genesis and Angeal both covered their faces before they heard something land, the glass crunching under their feet.

“Well now. Isn’t this… interesting?” a cold voice stated.

Angeal and Genesis lowered their arms as alarms started to go off, but the alarms and screaming of various people sounded so far away as they stared in shock. Long silver hair, cold green eyes and a wicked smile, the Sephiroth before them was completely different from the man they knew and loved. And then they registered the black wing that stretched out before it folded elegantly against his back.

“Sephiroth?” Genesis whispered.

Sephiroth’s smile became sharper.

“Isn’t this a curious thing? I came looking for a puppet, but instead, I found… phantoms.” Sephiroth stated.

Sephiroth looked between them, but there was no warmth, no joy, nothing, but cold emptiness in those eyes. Suddenly, Genesis and Angeal both understood Cloud’s fear. Angeal’s hand reached for his blade as Genesis called his rapier.

“Sephiroth… my friend, please-” Angeal started, holding out a hand towards him.

“Friend?” Sephiroth cut him off sharply.

Sephiroth took a few steps towards them, making them tense.

“I see no friend here, Angeal. No companion nor ally. No, no, all I see are two dead men.” Sephiroth stated, his Masamune in hand.

“Sephiroth. We are your friends. You are in a different world. You are confused.” Genesis stated.

Sephiroth hummed.

“So that is why all those roaches are still scurrying around. I was wondering, considering how hard I tried to remove them.” Sephiroth said, his eyes locking on to something over Angeal’s shoulder.

A quick glance showed several of the board members hiding behind them, trembling in terror. Angeal glared at them.

“Go! Get out of here!” he roared.

They quickly ran, rushing for the exit. Sephiroth just chuckled.

“They can run all they wish, but their deaths are inevitable.” Sephiroth said almost boredly before his eyes landed on them.

“As are your’s.” he said wickedly.

Sephiroth moved towards them again. Like a predator, Sephiroth seemed to know they had nowhere to go.

“Admittedly, I have been given a wonderful second chance and I do intend on using it to the fullest.” Sephiroth said sweetly.

“A second chance for what?” Genesis demanded, adjusting his footing.

Sephiroth’s eyes locked with his as Sephiroth’s smile sharpened.

“A wonderful chance, Genesis, to finally rip out that insolent tongue of your’s… and make you eat it .” Sephiroth stated coldly.

Genesis swallowed hard, feeling his hands begin to shake. Had he ever felt such fear? Such terror? Certainly not when facing the man whom he loved. Their Sephiroth had never spoken to them like this. Angeal shifted and pressed close to Genesis’ side.

“And then, once I am done with you two, I will go find Cloud and finally complete my destiny. It doesn’t matter to me if it’s this world or the other. I will claim what is mine by birth and blood.” Sephiroth smirked.

“We won’t let you.” Angeal said coldly.

“You? And you two think you are… strong enough to stop me?” Sephiroth demanded, head tilted to the side.

“Between the three of us, we will stop you.” Sephiroth replied from behind them.

Angeal and Genesis glanced back to see Sephiroth, their Sephiroth, standing behind them, his eyes narrowed. The other Sephiroth chuckled in amusement.

“And now we have a pale copy. How pathetic.” Sephiroth stated.

“A pale copy that doesn’t need to harm or control people to feel powerful.” Sephiroth replied as he called upon his own Masamune.

Sephiroth just raised his own blade.

“I will show you the difference between us. I will show you that I am superior in every way. And then I will bring this world to its knees .” Sephiroth stated before he shot forward.

Angeal brought up the Buster Sword to stop his attack, but grunted at the power behind it. Genesis held out his hand.

“Bind!” Genesis cast.

Sephiroth scuffed and easily batted the attack away before shoving Angeal back. Angeal stumbled, but Sephiroth caught him and blocked the next attack from Sephiroth’s blade. Sephiroth’s eyes narrowed as he held strong against the other, who leaned in.

“They don’t really care about you, you know.” Sephiroth whispered cruelly.

Sephiroth ignored him.

“They only care about themselves. I promise you, the moment your power weakens or they sense cracks in your armor, they will abandon you.” Sephiroth continued.

Sephiroth shoved him back. Genesis tried again to get him with a Sleep, but Sephiroth dodged it and attacked once more. Sephiroth caught his blade again and held strong, but could feel the power behind his attacks. The small hallway was barely giving them any room to fight back, but that also meant his moves were limited too.

“They are using you. Using your strength, your power, for their own needs. How can you continue to listen to roaches when you are a God?” Sephiroth demanded.

“Because I am no God and I have no interest in being one. What I want is to live in peace with the men I love.” Sephiroth replied sharply.

Sephiroth paused. For a second, his eyes went wild before he started to chuckle. Sephiroth could feel his arms shaking.

“Love? You think you are capable of love ?” Sephiroth sneered.

Sephiroth pressed Masamune back. Sephiroth seemed a bit startled that he was able to do that.

“I am tired of listening to you. You know nothing of who I am.” Sephiroth replied.

“Then you are a fool and I am happy to slaughter you alongside these fakes.” Sephiroth pushed back.

Sephiroth’s eyes narrowed, fully prepared to fight to the death to protect the men he loved when they all heard…

“Sephiroth!” All four of them turned to find Cloud standing by the broken window.

Sephiroth’s pupils dilated as his face twisted with delight.

“And there you are, puppet.” Sephiroth said with a wicked smile.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed. He stood there, sun shining down on him.

“Not your puppet. I’ve never been your puppet and never will be.” Cloud replied coldly.

Sephiroth chuckled in cruel amusement.

“Oh, how you cling to your humanity. How desperate you are to believe you could ever exist without me.” Sephiroth said.

“I do exist without you. I’ve continued to exist without you and will continue to exist without you.” Cloud stated.

“Perhaps, but that ends now. You will bow to me because you are mine .” Sephiroth said with a hiss.

Cloud hummed and took a step back, closer to the edge of the window.

“Cloud!” Angeal and Genesis yelled.

“Then if you want me so badly… come and get me.” Cloud stated before he jumped backwards out the window.

“NO!” Sephiroth yelled.

Cloud disappeared from their view. Before anyone could even speak, Sephiroth pulled back, twisted on his heel and darted out the window after Cloud, his wing opening. He too soon disappeared from their sight.

“We have to go after him!” Angeal yelled.

“Staircase, now!” Sephiroth replied.

They rushed towards the staircase.

Chapter Text

The wind whipped through his hair as he fell. For a moment, nothing existed, nothing mattered, just him and the wind around him, but then he heard it. The telltale sign of a wing flapping. Cloud opened his eyes to see Sephiroth flying after him, Masamune in hand. Cloud locked in, pulling his blade from his back as he blocked Sephiroth’s attack.

“Do not think you can escape me, puppet! I will ALWAYS find you!” Sephiroth said coldly.

Cloud said nothing. He just forced Sephiroth back. Sephiroth used his wing to slow down, so Cloud twisted around and slammed his blade into the side of the building. Faintly, he thought he heard screaming, but he ignored it as he swung himself up to stand on the handle. Sephiroth floated there, smirking.

“Poor Cloud. All alone.” Sephiroth mocked.

“I’m not alone.” Cloud replied easily.

Sephiroth chuckled.

“Ah, of course not. You’ve surrounded yourself with fakes and phantoms of your past. Still clinging to those weak bonds like a child.” Sephiroth said.

“Maybe I have. But at least I am welcomed. I am wanted. You can’t say the same.” Cloud replied.

Sephiroth twitched before darting towards Cloud. Cloud dropped off the side, grabbed the handle again and pulled the blade out by pushing off the glass with his feet. Sephiroth’s attack hit the building, not flesh as Cloud fell back a bit, dismantling his blades as he did. He kept one, the others fell around them. Sephiroth used the building as a springboard and went after him. Their blades slammed into each other.

“You are nothing without me. You will always be an empty, mindless puppet .” Sephiroth hissed.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed.

“If I’m the puppet, what does that make you? Because you certainly aren’t the puppet master. If anything, you are an even bigger puppet.” Cloud threw him back before twisting away. 

Sephiroth followed him with his eyes, trying to understand what Cloud was going to do next. Cloud threw his blade and Sephiroth blocked it, hitting it away.

“I am your Master.” Sephiroth stated.

“No, you’re not. You are just a tool for Jenova to use. You have no more control over yourself now than you did when you were enslaved by Shinra. You traded one master, one collar, for another.” Cloud replied, grabbing another blade before darting back in. 

Sephiroth scowled and blocked his attack. They were getting closer and closer to the ground. This battle would end one way or another. 

—sSs—

Sephiroth stopped on the 31st floor landing, panting heavily. They had been running for what seemed like forever, but they were nowhere close to the bottom and Sephiroth was worried that Cloud was going to hit the ground before they got there.

“Sephiroth, we have to keep going!” Genesis demanded.

“We aren’t going fast enough!” Sephiroth replied hotly.

As those two started to argue, the door burst open, revealing Zack.

“What is going on! I heard alarms going off and came to see what happened!” Zack asked, panicked.

“The other Sephiroth is here and Cloud is fighting him!” Angeal explained quickly.

“We need to get to the first floor!” Genesis stated.

Zack, understanding the situation quickly, looked over the railing and made a decision. He climbed over.

“Zack! What are you doing!” Angeal and Genesis yelled before Zack dropped down.

“Don’t worry about it! I used to do this all the time when I was late to meet up with you guys!” Zack replied as he grabbed onto the railing at the 25th floor.

“Zack, this is insane!” Angeal yelled.

“But it works! So let’s go!” Zack replied.

Sephiroth didn’t even argue. He just climbed over the railing and followed him. Sephiroth grabbed a railing on the 24th floor and looked up.

“Cloud needs us. You can take the stairs, but he might be dead before you get there. I am going.” Sephiroth let go again and dropped down more floors.

“You might DIE!” Angeal yelled.

“At worst, from this height, I will break a leg.” Sephiroth replied quickly.

“Yeah! I’ve dropped from higher than this!” Zack agreed as he dropped down more.

“That does not make me feel better! Get back on the stairs!” Angeal demanded.

“Oh for the love of- FINE!” Genesis quickly followed Sephiroth over the railing.

“Genesis!” Angeal yelled.

Genesis looked at him before kissing him on the cheek.

“I love you. If I die doing this, name a theater after me.” Genesis quickly dropped down.

Angeal almost screamed, but with all three of his lovers acting like spider monkeys, he had to be the rational one. He reached for his PHS, but then remembered he gave it to Cloud. Closing his eyes, saying a prayer, he followed them over the railing. Sephiroth landed on the first floor before sprinting for the door, Zack, Genesis and Angeal behind him.

Bursting into the lobby, Sephiroth started to push and shove his way to the front door. A few people started to yell at him until they realized exactly who they were yelling at.

“Excuse us! Pardon us!” Zack yelled.

“Make way! Make way, damnit! Shinra Generals coming through!” Genesis yelled.

“Please, this is an emergency! Make a path!” Angeal yelled.

Eventually, people moved out of their way, creating a path to the front door. Sephiroth burst outside and looked up, trying to figure out where they were.

“Where are they!” Zack asked.

“There!” Angeal pointed.

All of them looked up to see Cloud and the other Sephiroth furiously fighting as they fell. The sparking of blades clashing and the sound of several blades falling was the only thing they could focus on. Sephiroth’s eyes scanned the fight, trying to figure out who was winning, but he truly wasn’t sure.

“The fuck is happening!” Zack yelled, grabbing his hair.

“Sephiroth!” they turned to see Vincent, Valentine and the other Turks rushing out of the building.

“What is going on!” Valentine demanded.

“The other Sephiroth is here! Cloud is fighting him, but I don’t understand what his plan is! He’s going to die as soon as he hits the pavement!” Angeal replied.

Valentine scanned the fight before he spoke.

“Cloud is going to unleash his limit break. That’s why the sword has been split up. He’s going to slow himself down that way.” Valentine stated.

“But surely not enough! They are at least at the 20th floor!” Vincent said.

“Just watch. It’s starting now.”

—sSs—

Cloud saw he was running out of time. The battle, as always, was fierce between them. Sephiroth had tried to force his control over Cloud multiple times, but Cloud had been able to break free every time. As the ground kept getting closer and closer, Cloud finally saw his opening.

“It’s over, Sephiroth.” Cloud said as he twisted them around and shoved Sephiroth down.

“Limit Break.” Cloud whispered.

Sephiroth’s eyes widened as Cloud started to dart among his floating swords, realizing he had no chance to block them all, he was just going to have to do his best. As the blades tore through him, Sephiroth managed to open his wing to slow his descent, but Cloud slammed into him and he ended up hitting the concrete with a heavy thud.

Sephiroth forced himself up, just in time to watch as Cloud put his swords back together as one blade before bringing it down as a dive attack. Sephiroth brought his blade up, blocking most of the attack, before shoving Cloud back. Cloud cursed as he landed on his feet, realizing his attack had done next to nothing.

“Unfortunately, your little attack didn’t work this time.” Sephiroth said, smirking.

Cloud was panting, his body shaking. That attack had taken all of his energy and now he had no backup plan. He shifted his weight and got ready for his next attack when he heard yelling.

“Cloud!” Zack appeared by his side and pulled his training sword.

“Zack! What are you doing! Get back! It’s not safe!” Cloud demanded.

“Hey, remember what Aerith said! You don’t have to fight him alone!” Zack said with a smile.

“Zack…” Cloud paused when someone else stepped up to his other side.

“Zack is correct. Aerith said you wouldn’t have to fight alone and you won’t.” Angeal stated, Buster Sword in hand.

“Angeal?” Cloud mumbled.

“Hmph, if anyone is going to put this fake in his place, it’s going to be us.” Genesis said from Zack’s other side, rapier in hand.

Sephiroth silently took his place on Angeal’s other side, his eyes narrowed in determination. Cloud looked at them all before he nodded.

“Then let’s do this.” Cloud demanded.

Sephiroth eyed them before smirking.

“Oh puppet. Are you truly ready to watch more people you care about die? And here I thought you had finally understood. But it seems it hasn’t fully sunk in yet. So allow me to remind you.” Sephiroth slowly rose into the air and held out Masamune.

“You are too weak to stop me and I will make sure you watch them die. Just like you watched your mother die, your Ancient die and your village burn. So Cloud, tell me all of the things you treasure and it will be my pleasure to rip them away until you have nothing else, but me. ” Sephiroth said coldly.

“Bastard.” Cloud sneered.

Sephiroth shot forward. Genesis threw up a Barrier, which stopped Sephiroth for a moment, but as soon as it shattered, Angeal and Zack attacked together. Sephiroth fought the both of them, breaking Zack’s sword in the process. Zack ended up scrambling back as Angeal was forced to protect him.

“I need a weapon!” Zack yelled.

“Here!” Genesis threw him his rapier.

“Thanks!” Zack winked before going back in.

Genesis focused on providing defense for Angeal. Angeal blocked some of Sephiroth’s attacks before Cloud and Sephiroth darted in together. Angeal took a step back as Cloud and Sephiroth worked in tandem to force him back. Sephiroth’s eyes narrowed in annoyance, but couldn’t find any weaknesses in their defenses. And they were quickly gaining ground. Sephiroth flew back, out of reach and unleashed several rapid Firaga attacks. Genesis blocked them with another Barrier.

“Incoming!” Zack charged in.

Sephiroth and Cloud moved out of the way as Zack shot forward and jumped up to attack. Sephiroth and Cloud shared a look before following quickly. Zack’s attack was blocked and shoved back, but then Sephiroth and Cloud were there again, rapidly attacking in perfect timing. Sephiroth was struggling to keep up and then Genesis was there.

“Eat this.” Genesis hissed, hitting him with a Thundaga.

Sephiroth took it and tried to swipe at him, but Angeal blocked it. Genesis hit him again, this time with a Firaga. Sephiroth attempted to dodge, but it caught his wing. He hissed as the feathers caught flame before he was able to shake it off. Sephiroth’s furious eyes locked with Genesis’.

“Forget your tongue. I have decided I will take your whole head as my trophy.” Sephiroth said coldly.

“Like hell you will!” Zack yelled, swiping at him from the side.

Sephiroth dodged before batting him away. Angeal was there when Zack stumbled and gritted his teeth.

“Move!” Sephiroth yelled.

Angeal, Genesis and Zack didn’t think twice. They retreated, leaving Sephiroth to turn quickly, but not quick enough. Cloud and Sephiroth came at him, using a perfect Double Helix, something he couldn’t block or defend against. Sephiroth felt the attack full force and his one knee hit the ground.

“SEPHIROTH!” Cloud yelled as he leapt up.

Sephiroth looked up before bringing his sword up to block the attack, but it did little to stop him. Masamune snapped as the Fusion Sword buried itself in his chest. Cloud’s attack landed and Sephiroth could do nothing.

“It’s over, Sephiroth.” Cloud said coldly as he landed on the ground.

Sephiroth looked at him and for the first time, he wasn’t smirking. He seemed strangely calm, if not sad. Slowly, his body started to fade away.

“So, it seems you’ve won again, my Cloud.” Sephiroth stated, watching as his hand started to disappear.

“Not your’s.” Cloud mumbled, but it was weaker than before.

“So you say.” Sephiroth stated.

“CLOUD!” Cloud looked up when he heard Zack’s yell.

Zack all, but tackle-hugged him and Cloud stumbled a bit, but hugged back.

“I’m ok.” Cloud said.

“That was so cool, but also so scary! I can’t believe you did it! We did it! We stopped him!” Zack said, pulling back to hold him by the shoulders.

“Zack.” Sephiroth muttered.

Zack turned to him, startled to hear him call his name. Sephiroth eyed him as well before he sighed deeply and looked at Cloud.

“It seems you were correct. You are never alone… are you?” Sephiroth asked.

“No, I’m not.” Cloud replied.

Sephiroth nodded before he looked at Sephiroth. By this point, his body was mostly gone, only his upper chest and head remained.

“Tell me something…” Sephiroth asked.

Sephiroth stepped forward and the two of them locked eyes as his chest disappeared.

“What is it?” Sephiroth asked.

Sephorith looked at him, then at Angeal, Genesis, Zack and Cloud.

“Do you truly love them?” he finally asked, his neck now gone.

Sephiroth blinked before looking back at his lovers. He paused and then he nodded slowly.

“Yes. With everything I have.” Sephiroth replied.

Sephiroth sighed as his face started to fade away.

“I see… so we were capable of love… in the end.” Sephiroth whispered sadly.

Sephiroth closed his eyes as he took his final breath and then faded away completely. As the last pieces of him disappeared, Cloud collapsed into Zack’s arms.

“Spikey? Spikey! CLOUD!” Zack yelled in panic and he quickly knelt down, Cloud clearly unconscious.

Valentine moved to his side and knelt down. Pressing a hand to his neck, Valentine nodded.

“He’s exhausted. Fighting like that while fighting Sephiroth’s control is no easy feat. He needs rest.” Valentine stated.

Sephiroth nodded and without a second thought, picked him up.

“Then he will rest.” Sephiroth stated.

The Fusion Sword was split up to make it easier to carry between them. Vincent and the Turks surrounded them as they moved back inside. The people inside the building had obviously been watching the fight and now wanted to ask all kinds of questions, but Turks ran interference while the Generals just kept moving.

“We will handle the press and the masses. You all return to your apartment and we will come speak to you in a moment.” Vincent said quietly to Genesis.

“Understood.” Genesis nodded.

The elevator opened swiftly and the Generals piled in with Valentine as the Turks made a physical wall between them and the crowd before the doors closed. The second they were out of sight, the Generals slumped against the walls.

“I am… so sore.” Zack whined as he squatted down.

“His strength was no joke.” Angeal muttered, rolling his shoulder.

“ Hath endured torment, to find the end of the journey. My reserves are wiped out.” Genesis sighed.

Sephiroth turned to Valentine.

“And you said Cloud would fight him alone? How?” Sephiroth demanded.

Valentine shook his head.

“I wish I knew. Pure determination and spite could be a part of it.” Valentine replied.

“What was the Geostigma? You mentioned it earlier. You said it weakened him even more.” Genesis asked.

“In the other world, Jenova and Sephiroth poisoned the LifeStream. The Geostigma was a disease that attacked the young and vulnerable, mostly children. Cloud took it upon himself to find a cure, but it only stopped after Sephiroth was killed again.” Valentine paused and glanced at Cloud.

“He told no one he was sick. None of us knew he had caught the Geostigma. He just started staying away for longer and longer. It caused a lot of tension among our group since no one knew what he was doing. I… will admit my faults. I also believed he was acting strangely, but did not consider he was sick until we learned the hard way. Cloud is the type of man to do things himself so as not to harm anyone.” Valentine stated.

The group was silent, thoughtfully. Zack tapped his fingers on the floor before he spoke.

“Sephiroth… he killed your Aerith, didn’t he?” Zack whispered.

Valentine closed his eyes.

“He did.” Valentine said.

Zack swallowed as he nodded.

“Aerith’s death… changed everything. Never before had I met someone just so purely kind and in love with the world around them, even when it didn’t love her back. My focus was on stopping Sephiroth and releasing myself from my sins, but when she died… I saw something change in all of us. Cloud the most. Cloud has… never forgiven himself for not saving her and that leads to his decisions now.” Valentine stated.

“ The wandering soul knows no rest. He looks tormented, even in his sleep.” Genesis said, looking at Cloud.

They all looked down to see Cloud’s brow was furrowed and there was a deep frown on his face. Zack stood up and gently reached over to rub it and eventually, Cloud’s face relaxed. The elevator eventually stopped and they exited to their apartment. Sephiroth headed right for the guest room, Zack following to help. Angeal placed his sword by the door before he took the different pieces of the Fusion Sword, put it back together and then quickly put it on the rack as well.

“Tea anyone?” Genesis asked as he headed for the kitchen.

“Do we have anything stronger?” Angeal asked.

Genesis raised an eyebrow, but nodded and started looking through the cabinets. Angeal turned to Valentine.

“Can I offer you a chair?” Angeal asked.

“I am fine, thank you. I am just making sure he is asleep for this next part.” Valentine stated.

“Next part? There’s a next part?” Zack asked worriedly as he returned to the living room, Sephiroth behind him.

Valentine sighed.

“Whenever Sephiroth passes, Cloud often suffers from migraines, nightmares, and weakness for a few days afterwards. There is a theory I have that Sephiroth steals energy and mental stability from Cloud to sustain himself, but I have nothing to back that up.” Valentine stated.

“What a leech… uhh no offense?” Zack stated, before looking at Sephiroth sheepishly.

“None taken. He and I are not the same.” Sephiroth said seriously.

“Of course you aren’t. What a wretched creature! Hmph! Acting as if we were all beneath him! There are no dreams, no honor remains. ” Genesis said, coming back with a tray of drinks.

Valentine raised an eyebrow at the slight hint of vodka in the air, but Genesis’ face dared him to say anything. It’s not like normal alcohol could affect them anyway, but they deserved something after that fight.

“Thank you, dear.” Angeal said, taking a glass.

“Nice, victory drinks!” Zack cheered as he grabbed one.

Sephiroth took a glass and sipped his as they settled down. Valentine continued to stand, preferring to lean against the wall. They sat in silence for a moment before there was finally a knock at the door. Valentine opened it to reveal Vincent and Tseng.

“Well, we are in quite a mess.” Vincent said as he walked in.

“Father. I am sorry for everything, but…” Sephiroth stopped when Vincent held up his hand.

“Calm yourself, Sephiroth. No one could have predicted him appearing and certainly not in the way he did. We are just lucky no one was badly hurt or worse.” Vincent walked over and Angeal got up so he could sit in the chair. 

“No one got hurt during that fight?” Zack asked, confused.

“That’s rather incredible.” Angeal said.

“We have a few people with bruises and cuts, but nothing that can’t be healed with a Cura.” Vincent replied. 

Angeal moved to sit next to Zack on the couch. Vincent looked around the room before he raised an eyebrow.

“Cloud?” he asked.

“Asleep. He was exhausted.” Angeal answered.

Vincent nodded.

“Understandable. I still wish to talk to him when he wakes up, but that can wait.” Vincent stated.

“So what amazing lie did the Turks tell the masses this time?” Genesis asked.

Vincent chuckled as he leaned back.

“Congratulations! You are all now actors in a movie that got a little out of hand. It comes out next summer. Sure to be a big blockbuster hit.” Vincent replied.