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strayheartless · 2 months

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genesis is sick seph and angeal are taking care of him

There is a severe temptation to Rag on Genesis and make this crack, but I Im too much of a sucker for Angst and Hurt/comfort😅. I have accepted my role really, and I love it. Never come to me for Crack, I always just make it sad.

SO!!!

CW for: vague descriptions of vomiting, discussions of childhood sickness, discussions of experimental poisoning/ testing.

Angeal stares at the steam rising from the cettle as it boils. He's exhausted and if he's honest with himself he's terrified. This doesn't happen to them, they don't get sick! And even on the odd ocassions they do, it is never like this.

when Genesis had complained of a headache the afternoon before, Angeal had rolled his eyes at the man and sparingly suggested he rest his eyes from reading. when the complaints of it getting worse hadn't stopped he'd snapped at Gen to go lay down in a dark room if its so bad. Only to be shocked when Genesis had swayed like a stick of bamboo the wind unon standing up.

Gen had gone quiet after that, Lying on his own office couch with the lights off and not moving. By the end of the day, when Sephiroth had swung by both of their officed to collect them for dinner, Genesis had developed a cough... and then the cough got worse.

... and worse.

When Gena was little, Angeal remembered he was sick a lot. Flu, Scarlet fever, colds, migraines, it didn't really matter what it was Genesis seemed to get it. Usually he'd just complain and sneeze and be obnoxious. But other times ha remembered his mother being called for when Gen wouldn't get out of bed, wouldn't speak or move much except to cry or struggle to breath.

Now felt like one of those times.

They had been up all night with him, taking turns to whip his brow and sooth him through the endless coughing fits, vomiting and barly cognazent concious moments. Sephiroth had Tied up his own hair and then Gena's when the stress started getting too much, and angeal had winced when Genesis had whimpered at the preasure on his scalp... But it was better that then trying to sponge sick out of his hair.

After twelve hours of pure torture for everyone involved, Gena's fever broke and he gained a little bit more licidity. Now it was just making sure he made a full recovery.

Angeal made up a two cups of coffee and placed a clean rag over the bowl of Chicken noodle soup he'd warmed. He doubted Genesis would be able to keep all of it sown, but they at least needed to try. Placing it all on a tray he trecked back to the bedroom.

"How are we looking?" He asked upon entering. Sephiroth was sat in the squishy reading chair that usually sat in the Corner of Gena's room, looking only maginally less tired than Angeal felt. The man was used to insomnia.

"he woke up for only a minute or two. I managed to get him to drink some water," Seph whispered back, taking the cup that was handed to him.

Angeal sighed and sat on the end of the bed. "I never thought I'd say this but i think I need to hear him being dramatic,"

Sephiroth hummed and looked back at Genesis on the bed. He didn't look peaceful exactly, there was too much sweat and signs of distress about his person for that, but he he no longer seened to be in active discomfort and stress. angeal watched Seph scan his eyes over their lovers face and body, taking note of everything he could.

"What are you thinking?" he asked softly, placing a hant on Sephiroths thigh and squeezing.

Sephiroth twitched his nose slightly, a little stress tell they'd long ago realised he was considering variables that he didn't like. It was upsetting how often those variables were the truth.

"I'm thinking, we may need to pay a visit to Hollander once he is not in danger any more" Angeal blinked at him.

"You think Hollander did this to him?" he asked, with a note of scepticism to his voice. "Seph, babe, I know you have reason to mistrust scientists, but this is Hollander we're talking about here. He's not Hojo, he doesn't do things like this!"

"No? Angeal, consider for a second. Genesis goes down to the lab for a pre mission check up" Sephiroth bracketted the words with air quotes, and Angeal would have snorted at how very Zack the gesture was had he not started to feel sick himself. Sephiroth continues.

"And when he comes back from the lab he complains that he has a headache; something he has not complained of since he was a third, I know because I checked -"

"you accessed his medical records? seph tha-"

"Hush. complains of a headache and then all of a sudden the mission is cancled due to prioritising and Genesis does not even have the time to feel angered at any kind of usually percieved slight against his skill before he's going down - in a single afternoon Angeal- with a severe fever, sickness, apparent chest infection and the worst migraine he has had since he wat fourteen."

Layed out as plainly as Sephiroth had put it, it did seem awfully convenient that Genesis had not been sent away as this was developing. in fact Angeal could track Sephiroths logic almost perfectly with little room to suggest conicidence. But this was Hollander .The man was a bastard, that Angeal would fully admit, but he had never purposfully poisoned them before, not in the ways Hojo had done to Sephiroth.

"Could you two discuss the conspiricy of my death a little quieter please?" came a rough voice from behind him, and when he turned to follow Sephs redirected gaze he saw Genesis attempting to pull himself up into a sitting position.

He got up to help, but was flapped at irately when he went to support Gena's back.

"How do you feel?" he asked softly, and Genesis sighed.

"Like I went round for round with the Midgar Zolom and then decided to train with Sephiroth as a masocistic treat to myself," Sephiroth snorted as he moved to Gens other side, sitting on the bed with him and pulling the red head to lean against his sweater clad side.

Gen leaned into it with a comfroted hum, reaching for Angeal who came easily. winding his ams around the both of them and placing his chin on Gen's head.

"If you wanted to fight me like this, i would have been bored by your sloppyness." Sephiroth pokes fun and Genesis squawks indignintly. Angeal chuckled.

"So mean!" Gena weakly punches Sephiroth in the thigh. "I could have very well died!"

Angeal sobered a bit, and from the shit in Sephiroths posture, so did he.

"yes, you could have," he murmered and Genesis' anger Deflated. He coughed into his fist as he relaxed against them, and when his breath caught, the two sat him up straighter so that he could breath better as he Coughed harder.

"S-sorry" he weezed.

"It's fine love," Ageal whispered handing him the glass of water. Gen Gulped it down and sat back again.

"I have not missed being this ill." he commented. "Reminds me of of the time I had scarlet fever, though I confess I don't actually remember a lot of the experience. mostly the pain,"

They sat there for a while in silence, Seph playing with the promise ring on Gena's left hand while Angeal combed out some of the knots out from his hair. after about half an hour, Genesis spoke; his breath rattling in his chest a little.

"Do you truely think Hollander did this to me?" he asked, not looking at either of them.

"I do," was all Sephiroth gave him, and Angeal sensed that Genesis din't know what to do with that information. what were you supposed to say when the man in charge of you medically was suspected of trying to kill you?

There was nothing anyone could say that could ever make that okay.

"I made you soup, if you're up for eating?" he offered instead and Genesis seemed to welcome the distraction, making grabby hands at him, like a child, as he reached for the still warm bowl.

As Angeal and Sephiroth watched him eat, they glanced at each other, a silent agreement being made. It this was Hollander -and Gods above did Angeal hope it wasn't - Then they would do everything in their power to hunt that man down and end him before he had the chance to make Genesis suffer further.

#ffvii #genesis rhapsodos #crisis core #angeal hewley #sephiroth #Sephiroth Cresent #ff7 #AGS #ags sick fic #my writing #sick Genesis Rhapsodus #AGS fluff #AGS hurt/comfort #AGS hopeful (???) ending

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up-sideand-down · 2 years

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Cloud is a Summon Au

1. The Materia came out of the mako spring near Nibelheim. It had the reddish hue of most summons, but it was dull like the magic had seeped out. It wasn't something someone would have picked up except that sometimes it flashed, usually when someone new picked it up. The flash died quickly and no one really could cast anything.

Scarlet tried forcing it, Hojo tried showing it to the various specimens ShinRa collected. Reeve tried to build something for it, but none produced a reaction.

The materia finally shone when it was picked up by Sephiroth, 16 and fresh from Wutai. He just examined it when it started to glow. There was a lot of hubbub then, but just one problem.

Sephiroth didn't particularly want to cast it...and neither did the Summon.

2. Sephiroth had never spoken to a summon before. He figured it was a pretty rare or odd occurrence. But this one spoke.

"You'll do," it said.

"Do for what?" Sephiroth asked.

"As a caster," it said, "for me. I pick you, you can use me." Sephiroth had enough of being the leader, the chosen one, the one in the spotlight. His reaction was to set it down.

"No thanks," he said, "I'm fine. I don't really care what sort of magic you use."

"Exactly," the summon said. It had a very dry male voice. It almost sounded human.

"What?" Sephiroth said, "you don't want me to cast you?"

"Nah," the summon said, "It's nice in here. You seem like the type to only use me if you need to. You'll do fine."

Without knowing why...or what the summon did. Sephiroth finished the demonstration by putting the materia in his pocket and mumbling it wasn't very interesting anyway.

"Not one bit," the summon agreed.

3. Despite never casting, Sephiroth found it hard to put the summon down. It always glowed when he held it, but not when anyone else did. They did say it was warm. That was true. It wasn't the heat of Ifrit, more like body head from it.

He talked to it too. In private. It mostly sounded in his head. It made him wonder if he was going crazy.

"I dunno," the summon said, "but I choose to talk to you." And that was true, it often never said anything back at all. But sometimes it replied dryly, sometimes with sarcasm.

"Who are you?" Sephiroth asked one day, almost a year after he picked it up the first time.

"Dunno," it said, "I don't really feel like a god."

"I mean...do people call you something?" Sephiroth said.

"I got called Fenrir in Nibelheim," it said, "it's like a wolf I guess."

"Are you a wolf?" Sephiroth asked.

"I dunno."

"So should I call you that?" Sephiroth asked.

"If you want to." Sephiroth thought on it a moment.

"I'm gonna call you Cloud," he said at last.

"Fine with me."

4. Sephiroth remained protective of Cloud, even though he knew he was the only person who could cast it for now. He didn't take him out. He only ever showed it to his closest confidants. Genesis was the most upset that Sephiroth had never used it.

"It's like a waste," Genesis said.

"I think I'm only supposed to use it if I need it," Sephiroth said, "so I don't want to waste it." Genesis accepted that.

"That's fair," he said. He knew he just had to cast to see what Cloud really was like, but he preferred to ask and guess during the lonlier nights. Cloud either stayed silent or admitted he didn't know himself.

"Are you afraid?" Sephiroth asked at last.

"All the time," Cloud said. That made enough sense. Sephiroth felt the same sometimes.

5. Sephiroth finally cast, not to save his own life...but that of the people he cared for most. He caused Genesis's injury, he pushed Angeal and Genesis away, he failed them. Despair overwhelmed Sephiroth years after he picked up Cloud for the first time.

"Use me," Cloud said, as he faced Angeal and Genesis alone for what might have been the last time.

"I can't," Sephiroth said, "I can't."

"You can," Cloud said, "use me Sephiroth." So Sephiroth cast it for the first time.

Cloud was angelic for a moment, almost like Minerva might have been. He had dark wings with a pure white underside. He floated down to Angeal and Genesis. He was blonde and handsome with his spiked hair and blue eyes. He seemed peaceful for a moment.

Then, to Sephiroth's horror, Cloud pulled a sword and stabbed Genesis, impaled him neatly. His sword turned black, then back to steel. He pulled his weapon away and Genesis gasped, feeling at his torso. Then Cloud faded away again.

"What did you do?" Sephiroth asked when Genesis got up, still feeling himself.

"Dunno," Cloud said.

"Are you okay?" Angeal asked.

"Honestly...I think so," Genesis said, "I feel...better?"

"I think you helped," Sephiroth said.

"I hope so," Cloud said.

#headcanon.#cloud strife #sephiroth #angeal hewley #zack fair #summon!cloud

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tiifalockhart · 3 years

Text

More Than Friends

Pairing: Zack x Sephiroth

Warnings: mentions of anxiety, fighting

Word Count: 2k

A/N: hiii I’m back with another pairing I love. although this wasn’t requested, I’ve recently fallen in love with this ship... so i figured i would make something of my own for them. i hope you enjoy <3

Ao3 || Masterlist

You’d never really expect someone like the war hero to fall in love. He was distant, oblivious, sometimes he was even cold. It was odd, the way his expressions never really changed except for when he was in the middle of a battle. It was fairly hard to find him too, he didn’t have a routine whatsoever. Besides the constant calls of Hojo, he was usually never in his office (since he dreaded paperwork so much) and Genesis was quite stingy when it came training (since he hated losing). Sephiroth seemed to spend a lot of time avoiding the plagues of his life, such as meetings, paperwork, Hojo... So a lot of times, he would be seen sneaking off with his friends to anywhere else instead of work.

That’s when he met Zack, the adorable little puppy-like second class SOLDIER under Angeal’s wing. You could tell from his face from meeting Sephiroth that he was amazed. He was energetic, of course, and he asked a lot of questions about Sephiroth, anything that he could think of. Had Zack not been wearing the SOLDIER uniform, Sephiroth would have been convinced that this kid was part of his fan-club. Sephiroth couldn’t hold back the small smile forming on his lips. Zack was different from all the fanboys and girls he met... He was genuine and see-through, his innocent exterior made him quite charming in an odd sense. Much to Angeal and Genesis’ bewilderment, Sephiroth offered to get to know Zack better, inviting him out to dinner no matter how late it was by the time Zack stopped questioning him.

After dinner that night, Sephiroth and Zack slowly became closer and closer. Even if Angeal was Zack’s mentor, Sephiroth would often find time to teach Zack more about being a SOLDIER. He admired Zack’s unending excitement about anything. Zack could find the good in just about anything; Sephiroth could tell him to take down an entire army in the simulation training rooms, and Zack would take it as a test and go at it with no complaints, even if he was unsuccessful. He was different from anything Sephiroth had seen in a long time. No one else would ever know, but Sephiroth admired Zack just as much as Zack admired him.

Eventually, they became friends outside of work as well. Often times, Zack would randomly invite Sephiroth out when neither of them were drowning in work. It was odd... Sephiroth usually would ignore those invitations, but he accepted Zack’s with no hesitation. What had gotten into him? Their strange and random outings would consist of random shopping sprees, or restaurants that caught Zack’s attention, or sometimes it would be a walk around one of the sectors of Midgar. Everyone thought it was strange how Sephiroth and Zack were nearly attached at the hip, even Genesis and Angeal were at a loss of words when it came to their strange relationship.

Sephiroth couldn’t explain this strange infatuation that he had with Zack. Ever since they first met, he felt this odd pull towards the younger SOLDIER. It was strange, Sephiroth had never felt something so strong or different... He was worried about it. Maybe he was getting too attached, should he back off? What if Zack didn’t feel the same way? He didn’t want to ruin anything between them. Were feelings always this complicated? Sephiroth was unsure.

It began to become noticeable. When Zack and Sephiroth were together, a smile would be present on Sephiroth’s lips. It shocked a lot of people, including Genesis and Angeal. He hardly smiled when it came to them. Whenever Zack would crack a joke, even if it was bad or not, Sephiroth would still let out a light chuckle and sometimes reply with a joke of his own. He seemed more... Open, maybe extroverted is the better word. It was astonishing, even Hojo was at a loss for his behavior.

The scientists began anxious as Sephiroth developed more through this relationship. Hojo would question him about it, but ultimately be clueless as to what really caused this behavior. He knew Zack had something to do with it, but he couldn’t figure out what was so different about that boy. These new developments within Sephiroth pushed Hojo to immediately send him out on more missions. He was afraid... Feelings could cause Sephiroth to get out of control, and both Hojo and the rest of Shinra didn’t want that.

They collectively decided to push more of a word load on Sephiroth so that he didn’t have time to think about friendships or relationships. A new mission was presented to him daily, which bothered him. They were all simple clean-up missions, why were they pushing so hard for these? A simple infantryman could solve these issues, yet they were sending out first class SOLDIERs? It didn’t help that Zack seemed to be busy a lot more often as well... They hardly got to see each other anymore. It hurt... Sephiroth finally met someone he felt comfortable with, someone that he could open up to, and it was viciously ripped from him. He hated it so much...

Maybe he should put his foot down. He had the power to refuse these missions, didn’t he? A First Class SOLDIER, a War Hero, handling minuscule missions? That was ridiculous. When Lazard summoned him again for his next mission, Sephiroth arrived with a frown. He denied every mission listed to him, a stubborn tone to his voice. Even after being warned by Lazard, Sephiroth stubbornly continued. He decided that today was his day off, and he was going to see Zack.

Eventually, Lazard gave up. He couldn’t force the First Class SOLDIER to go, and he didn’t want to face the fury of a disgruntled War Hero, so he dismissed Sephiroth before he grew angry. Sephiroth didn’t hesitate to rush to find Zack afterwards. He pulled out his phone and typed a quick message, searching for Zack. As soon as the younger answered, Sephiroth almost ran to find him. As soon as he entered the training room and found Angeal and Zack, his expression softened. Zack turned towards him and grinned. “Oh, hey Seph.” He said casually, as if nothing had happened.

Sephiroth let out a breath as he nodded politely to Angeal. “Good morning Zack. After your training session today, I request to see you in my office.” He explained, his voice monotone as usual. He could still hide his emotions thankfully. They both gave him an odd look, before Angeal spoke up.

“You came... All this way, just to tell him that?” He asked, raising a brow. Sephiroth didn’t notice, but there was a faint smirk on his lips. It’s like he knew. Sephiroth shook his head lightly and looked away.

“Apologies. It is very important that I see Zack as soon as possible. I’ll be leaving now.” Sephiroth muttered, his brows furrowing as he turned away. Zack tilted his head curiously as he watched Sephiroth.

“Oh- Uh, okay! I’ll be there soon.” Zack reassured, grinning over at Sephiroth. It sounded like he was snapped out of a daze... What could have distracted him? Sephiroth nodded lightly, before awkwardly leaving.

That was so embarrassing... What was he thinking when he ran into that room? Hopefully Zack didn’t think differently of him... It didn’t matter. He should just go back to his office and wait patiently, surely they won’t be much longer, right?

Sephiroth couldn’t just relax, though. He continued to pace around the room, awaiting Zack’s arrival. A couple of knocks would happen, causing Sephiroth’s heart to jump with anxiety, but he would only end up disappointed when it wasn’t Zack.

Finally, Zack showed up. It felt like hours had passed by the time he knocked on the door. A shaky breath escaped Sephiroth’s lips as he quickly opened the door. A slightly shocked expression was on Zack’s face, a nervous chuckle leaving his lips. “Everything okay?” He asked as he stepped inside.

Sephiroth frowned at this question. “Well... Yes, why wouldn’t everything be okay?” He responded, his gaze following Zack. The younger male leaned against Sephiroth’s desk, raising a brow and crossing his arms.

“You look like you’re in a frenzy.” He pointed out, snickering at Sephiroth’s confusion. “I’ve never seen you so worked up. Is it because they’re piling missions on you now?” Zack asked, tilting his head to the side. He looked so much like a puppy... Sephiroth mentally cursed himself for falling for it.

He shook his head slowly. “No... That’s just a minor annoyance.” He stated, crossing his arms and looking away from the other. “I wanted to talk about something... It’s been confusing me for quite some time.” Sephiroth brought it up casually, attempting to mask the growing anxiety inside him.

“What’s up?” Zack asked, his grin never leaving his lips. Dammit, why was this so hard?

Sephiroth’s mind screamed at him. This could change their relationship forever. No... This will change their relationship. No matter what Sephiroth says, no matter how Zack responds, nothing between them will be the same. He was afraid, Sephiroth had never been afraid of anything. He could take down three behemoths at once, he could traverse the most extreme war-like terrains, but he couldn’t look his crush in the eyes and tell him how he really feels.

He opened his mouth to speak, but strangely, nothing came out. Zack gave him a confused look, before smiling weakly. “It’s alright Seph, take your time.” He urged, nodding lightly.

Sephiroth sighed and tried again, but there was nothing again. His mouth was dry, he could feel his palms were sweaty, he felt like he needed to sit down before he collapsed. A shaky sigh left his lips as he pulled himself together.

“I...” He began, furrowing his brows as he chose his words carefully. “I would like to be more than friends.” Sephiroth stated firmly, as if he was confirming it with himself as well.

Zack raised a brow. Now it was his turn to be confused. “More than friends? ...Like, best friends?” He asked, which Sephiroth shook his head. “Ohhhh, you mean like... Mega-best friends.” He corrected jokingly, smirking at Sephiorth’s sigh.

“No, I mean like-” Zack cut him off immediately by throwing his arms around him, pulling him into a bone-crushing hug.

“I know what you mean.” He murmured softly. Sephiroth raised his brows in surprise and hesitantly returned the hug. “And I accept. Pretty cool how I managed to seduce the War Hero, huh?” Zack teased, causing Sephiroth’s cheeks to heat up in embarrassment.

“...Yes.” He responded awkwardly, as if he was unsure of what to say. Zack grinned and took Sephiroth’s hand, guiding him towards the door.

“Let’s go back to my place! After you change though. That way, we can watch a movie and hang out, you know?” He suggested, even though he had already decided for the both of them.

A smile tugged at Sephiroth’s lips as he followed along with the younger, relief washing over him. That was much simpler than he thought it would be... Maybe he should try taking more chances more often... But for now, he was satisfied with the results and decided to leave it at that.

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sephirothisaslut · 4 years

Text

I’m not fond of goodbyes... See you later?

The first time Cloud met the General was on an errand for Zack.

It was Sunday, and Zack had gotten drunk the day before. How he got drunk in the first place is a mystery, but Cloud suspects it’s just an excuse to sleep in. Zack sent him a rather long message via PHS apologizing to Cloud for the inconvenience, telling him to go to his mentor (Angeal) and explain Zack’s absence.

Rather annoyed with his friend, Cloud resorted with scolding him over the phone.

“Why can’t you text him? Do I really have to say it in-person? “

“Sorry Spiky but we were supposed to train today, and Angeal doesn’t allow phones in the training room.” Zack sounded sheepish. “look I’ll make it up to you. How about some Ice-cream? My treat!”

“Ugh, Zack you’re lucky I’m awake anyway. You know this is the only day Cadets can sleep in.”

“Yeah yeah, Thanks a lot Spike!”

“I hate you” Cloud said, hanging-up.

He gathered his bearings, woke himself properly and got dressed for the day.

Cloud made his way through the building and entered the elevator, pressing the SOLDIER floor. The building was rather quiet, save for the occasional pencil pusher. Seems like everyone slept in today, of course except Cloud. Grumbling at his predicament, Cloud exited the elevator and headed to the First-Class Training Room. He knocked and entered as the door slid open.

As he stepped inside, he froze. There in the middle of the room was the Silver General himself, arms crossed and clad in his usual attire. He lifted one eye-brow and spoke.

“What are you doing here Cadet?”, Sephiroth said with a snap.

“Se-Sir! Zack asked me to tell the Commander about his absence Sir!” Cloud replied in a salute.

“At ease Cadet. It seems that both of us are hear for the same reason.” Sephiroth explained with a smirk. “Angeal sent me to inform Zackary of his absence.”

“Sir?”

“Tell Zack that training is postponed today, Angeal was sent on a mission along with Genesis last night.”

“Ye-yes Sir!” Cloud said, still stiff and dazed.

“Cadet I told you ‘at-ease’, and today is Saturday is it not? You’re not on duty.”

“yes si- I mean yeah.” Cloud uttered while rubbing his neck, “Sooo, I should leave then…”

Sephiroth merely raised an eyebrow again and smirked, looking very amused.

“Yeah ok, um, see you later” Cloud said as he left, then tensed as he realized what he just said to ‘the fucking General.’

“Hmm, see you later Cadet” Sephiroth replied as he went through the door, leaving Cloud in an empty training room.

“Ughh Zack why do I have to go” Cloud grumbled, “I’m a Cadet, I’m not supposed to be hanging-out with SOLDIERS, much less the Gods-damned Top Three of Shinra!”

“Oh come one Spike, you’ll be fine. And besides you already met Angeal and Sephiroth that one time, and Genesis will probs be ok with you, so long as you don’t insult Loveless.” Zack said while dragging Cloud toward the SOLDIER Housing section.

“You could’ve at least told me earlier so I could’ve made some more Mashed Potatoes.” Cloud gestured to the container he was holding.

“Shush, stop being a worry wart and relax. Come on!” Zack sprinted as Cloud chuckled and jogged behind him.

It was a fairly warm evening, Angeal welcomed the two boys, and Thanked Cloud for his Mashed Potatoes ( to which Cloud responded with a stuttered “yo-Your welcome…”). Genesis was lounging on the couch reading Loveless, while across him was Sephiroth scanning Angeal’s CD collection for a suitable movie.

Noticing Cloud’s gaze, Sephiroth looked up and met his eyes.

“Ah it’s the Cadet, I assume you’re here with Zackary?”

“Yes Si-“

“I believe it’s Saturday, ease-up Cadet” Sephiroth said, referencing their first meeting.

“I-…Yes”

“Sephiroth don’t be a hypocrite, how can the boy relax if you keep calling him cadet?” Genesis chided, lowering his book to tease his friend.

“Hmmm, True. So Cadet, what’s your name?” Sephiroth asked, turning to Cloud.

“uh-Cloud Si-, I mean Cloud…Cloud Strife” Cloud stuttered with a slight blush.

“Cloud? Very unusual name.”

“Look who’s talking” Cloud whispered under his breath, turning to head to the kitchen to offer help to Angeal.

“Touché”

Cloud winced, he forgot about enhanced hearing. He looked over his shoulder to see if he’s offended the General somehow, and relaxed when he saw Sephiroth had returned his focus to the CD Collection.

Shaking himself out of his thoughts, he left to make sure Zack hadn’t burned whatever dish Angeal has tasked him to supervise.

After preparations and several dishes, the group settled in front of the TV and started their little movie marathon. Genesis sat beside Angeal, slightly leaning on the gentle giant. Zack was seated between Angeal and Cloud, while Sephiroth settled at Cloud’s other side.

A movie in and Cloud tried not the squirm, and he seems successful. He tried focusing on the movie and not the fact that he’s sitting next to Sephiroth. He peeked at the General and blushed as he met Sephiroth’s eyes.

“So, Strife. I take it training is hard?” Sephiroth asked with a small smirk.

“Yes si-…yeah, yeah it is.”

“Hmm, who is your drill sergeant?” Sephiroth asked with curiosity.

“Sir Ghi, he’s tough on us.”

“Why is that? I heard from the Thirds that he was a relatively moderate instructor”

“Ah, it might have something to do with Bunker 4” Cloud explained with a chuckle.

“Oh? What did they do?” Sephiroth leaned closer, now obviously invested in the story.

Cloud, now noticing that their shoulders are touching, was flustered.

“Th-they didn’t do anything” Cloud squeaked, “They started a rumor that apparently Sir Ghi had once tripped during a fight with a Zolom.”

Sephiroth merely continued looking at Cloud, his smirk now a smile.

“They said he face planted in the mud and had to call for reinforcements to help him.” Cloud continued, now a little relaxed.

“It’s true” Sephiroth laughed.

“No shit!?” Cloud blurted, surprised. “I-I mean, really?”

“Yes, I was the ‘reinforcement’ that was called. It was quite messy, he never accepted missions on Swamplands after that.”

“Oh Gods, I gotta share this with the rest of the guys.”

“It’s better if you don’t, I imagine once the story spreads, Sir Ghi will make your training regime much more painful.” Sephiroth said, turning back to the movie.

“Hmm, true.” Cloud hummed as he returned to the movie.

“Oh and Cloud?” Sephiroth said without looking

“yes sir?”

“Call me Sephiroth”

Cloud looked at him, shocked. He gaped, then slowly closed his mouth and turned back to face the TV.

“Sure…Sephiroth” Cloud said, leaning slightly on the General.

Cloud didn’t see but a satisfied and happy smile graced Sephiroth’s lip.

After 3 more movies and several snacks and meals, everyone agreed to call it a night. Genesis left for his apartment, Angeal and Cloud stood and left to wash the plates, Zack headed to the bathroom, and Sephiroth volunteered to fix the living room. Cloud emerged from the kitchen and Zack from the bathroom. Everyone said their goodnights, and farewells.

“Hey Angeal, we’re heading out now!” Zack yelled toward the kitchen

“Goodnight Zack” Angeal voice emerged with the sound of running water.

“Night Seph!” Zack addressed the General. To which Sephiroth responded with a nod.

“See you later Cloud” Sephiroth smiled as he passed the two.

“See you later, Sephiroth” Cloud responded with his own smile.

It had been months since Genesis defected, and weeks since Angeal had too. Zack and Sephiroth were saddled with the duties two Commanders with their normal workload. Adding to the stress, the President has tasked Sephiroth with bringing Genesis, and Angeal back.

Before he was to be deployed, Sephiroth called Cloud.

“I don’t know how long I’ll be out, but it will most likely take a few days. Three at least” Sephiroth explained.

“Hey it’s ok, I’ll be fine. Just stay safe yeah? Come back soon, and drag Genesis and Angeal back with you.” Cloud responded soothingly.

“I intend to, but I suppose I can’t blame them”

“…” “Sephiroth?”

“Yes?”

“Do you sometimes think about it?”

“About what?”

“Defecting” Cloud whispered, but then hurriedly supplied, “I-I mean I know Shinra doesn’t exactly have a safe environment, and I know their ethics are-“

“Cloud” Sephiroth’s voice cut through Cloud’s rambling.

“So-sorry I was just-“

“Cloud, I would never leave you.” Sephiroth said as both a reprimand and a promise. “You’re too important to me for that”

“o-oh”

“Cloud I love you”

“I love you too…I’m sorry I guess I’m just depressed from failing the SOLDIER exam and…”

“SOLDIER or not I still love you”

“…thank you, Seph.”

“Anyway, the transport is here…See you later?”

“hmm, yeah. See you later Seph”

Sephiroth snapped his PHS close, and turned sharply toward the chopper. He was determined to bring his friends back. And he was determined to return them even if he had to drag them by the ear, he had made a promise after all.

Cloud fought. And he intends to survive. He survived two Sephiroth clones, and Geostigma. He can survive this.

Several years since he had found himself atop the cliffs. Since he impersonated Zack. Since he lost his memories, and still missing a bulk mostly from his time in Shinra. He fought, and struggled. He held his ground as Sephiroth, the Calamity’s child, threw half the city at him. Cloud glided, jumped and dodged. He parried and slashed, hoping that this would be the last time he had to face this monster.

Cloud didn’t understand Sephiroth’s obsession with him. Perhaps it the Jenova cells, but there were times when Sephiroth’s gaze bore through him and saw something more than a puppet. Nevertheless, he still fought. Their blades met and sparked. Cloud cornered Sephiroth, finally using his Limit Break. First Tsurugi glowed and each individual sword floated and surrounded the World’s Enemy. Every strike hit his adversary where he intended.

Cloud landed, his blades followed, surrounding him. Sephiroth rose, his wing outstretched. And then…He fell.

Cloud rushed toward him, intending to finish the job. He stood beside the One-Winged Angel, and saw-for the very first time- his face devoid of insanity and madness.

Cloud was shocked. He looked closely at the monster he had been chasing and fighting, and saw only a man. Sephiroth looked at him, smiling with broken eyes. He didn’t sneer, he just smiled sadly. He spoke in a rough, scratchy voice.

“I’m sorry Cloud…I…I’m sorry” The man said, staring into Cloud’s eyes.

“Shut up Sephiroth! You have no right to ask for forgiveness” Cloud replied with a fierceness that made Sephiroth wince.

“I know…But even so, I still would like to try” Sephiroth pleaded, his eyes now looking at the grey, empty sky.

“After everything you did to the planet? To the world? Sorry isn’t going to cut it.” Cloud glared. How dare Sephiroth of all people.

“I’m not asking the planet’s forgiveness…I’m asking for yours”

“what?”

“I’m sorry I left Cloud. I’m sorry I believed Hojo over you and Zack. I’m sorry I broke my promise.”

“what are you- “

Cloud winced; his hand shot to his head. He’s seeing visions… memories? He doesn’t know. It feels different from Jenova. There was no pain, only surprise and confusion. What are these? Are these his or Zacks? No, it’s definitely Cloud’s. Then why…no…

“No…No..nonono” Cloud crashed to his knees, clasping Sephiroth’s hand.

“Cloud?”

“no no Seph please This can’t- .. You can’t” He gasped, still dazed from his recent memory rush. He pleaded and begged as Sephiroth slowly disappeared in flecks of black feathers and miasma.

“Cloud…”

“don’t..just not-“

“Cloud…I’m not fond of goodbyes…”

‘See you later?’

Cloud returned Sephiroth’s broken gaze. He squeezed his hand tighter, afraid to let go.

“You can’t-” He whispered as the hand he held turned into a single black feather. He bowed down, unmoving for minutes.

And at the very last second, Sephiroth finally broke Cloud.

Cloud woke up. His vision swam as his eyes focused on the Cadet barracks’ ceiling. His PHS was ringing. It was Zack.

“Why can’t you text him? Do I really have to say it in-person? “

“Sorry Spiky but we were supposed to train today, and Angeal doesn’t allow phones in the training room.” Zack replied sheepishly. “look I’ll make it up to you. How about some Ice-cream? My treat!”

“Ugh, Zack you’re lucky I’m awake anyway. You know this is the only day Cadets can sleep in.”

“Yeah yeah, Thanks a lot Spike!”

“I hate you” Cloud said, hanging-up.

Cloud stood and rose from his bed. It has been months since he was sent back, and this was the moment he had prepared for. After several minutes he was dressed. He applied his contact lenses (being sent back with his enhancements, meant that he had eyes that glowed like headlights). He headed to the elevator and pressed the button for the SOLDIER Floor. And just like last time, the building was quiet. He slowly walked toward the First-Class Training room, his knuckles hovering over the door. He breathed in, and out…Then, he knocked.

The door opened to reveal the Silver General. His back was turned, arms crossed. Cloud allowed himself to drink-in the sight. He was just as he remembered.

Sephiroth turned, his eyebrow rose.

“What are you doing here Cadet?”, Sephiroth said with a snap.

“Sir! Zack asked me to tell the Commander about his absence Sir!” Cloud replied in a salute.

“At ease Cadet. It seems that both of us are hear for the same reason.” Sephiroth explained with a smirk. “Angeal sent me to inform Zackary of his absence.”

“…” Cloud said nothing. He refused to.

“Tell Zack that training is postponed today, Angeal was sent on a mission along with Genesis last night.”

“Yes Sir!” Cloud replied

“Cadet I told you ‘at-ease’, and today is Saturday is it not? You’re not on duty.”

“Sir, even so, you are still my superior” Cloud strained to keep his voice from cracking.

Sephiroth merely raised an eyebrow again.

“I shall take my leave then Sir.” Cloud saluted and turned, “Goodbye…Sephiroth” he whispered, knowing this time, Sephiroth can hear him.

Perhaps he had been selfish. Waiting months before enacting his plan. Just to say goodbye.

He never looked back. He didn’t dare to. After rounding a corner…he fled. He ran from the tower. He ran from his old life. He ran and never looked back.

A year later, Sephiroth was sent to return Genesis and Angeal…He never came back.

A few months after Shinra’s General went AWOL, Avalanche had managed to kill the President. A gaping hole was left on the President’s chest, a single strike from Masamune. Meanwhile, Hollander remained slumped on his chair, a pool of blood under him. A blond man standing over him.

Several more months following President Shinra’s death, it rained in Midgar. Genesis’ and Angeal’s degradation cured, and Jenova was thrown into a pool of Great Gospel’s water. Sephiroth kills Hojo, and burns his corpse to ashes.

#sefikura #time travel #sephiroth #cloud #tragedy #fanfic #final fantasy #ff7 #ff7cloud #ff7 remake #im sad yall #no regrets #sephiroth x cloud

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