Set Against the Grain
Drabbles following the exploits of Zack and Cloud, via FFVII/CC.
--1--
"…and it was so real! This was before I even met the general. You could probably imagine how terrified I was. Completely embarrassed myself, by the way."
Zack's voice flowed softly through the chilly air, blending in with the sounds of nightfall in the mountains. To his left, Cloud was propped carefully against the rocks, leaning on the SOLDIER with most of his weight. If it weren't for his open eyes, Zack would have thought the cadet was asleep. But night had just fallen and the chill had just settled over them. Sleep was always just out of reach.
"Angeal saved me."
His voice softened deeply and a note of grief edged itself between his words.
"He always saved me," Zack whispered.
His eyes were focused out across the foothills, the stars beginning to shine through the blanketing darkness. There were no cities to light the valley or offer them hope for their journey. Turning, Zack pulled Cloud into his arms, trying to provide as much warmth as he could against the cold of night.
"I won't give up. I can't."
Then with a heavy sigh, he placed his own head on top of the blond's and closed his eyes.
"I will save you, Cloud."