Warnings for this chapter: Language, some violence, and a lemon.
So, so you think you can tell
Heaven from Hell?
Blue skies from pain?
Can you tell a green field from a cold steel rail?
A smile from a veil?
Do you think you can tell?
And did they get you to trade
Your heroes for ghosts?
Hot ashes for trees?
Hot air for a cool breeze?
Cold comfort for change?
And did you exchange a walk-on part in the war for a lead role in a cage?
How I wish, how I wish you were here.
We're just two lost souls swimming in a fish bowl, year after year,
Running over the same old ground.
What have you found? The same old fears.
Wish you were here.
Wish You Were Here - Pink Floyd
Cloud stood in the center of his room, hands by his sides, staring in mute disbelief at the shut door that Zack had exited through moments before. He swore he could still hear the echo of Zack's voice in the air, just lingering as if it were wafting smoke that refused to dissipate. I'll be back as soon as I can...Cloud still heard those words, the last thing Zack had told him before leaving so suddenly on an unexpected mission.
A few minutes passed, and Cloud remained standing where he was, feeling empty and melancholy – yet, wanting to do anything else but to stay in his room all night, alone. He started, suddenly remembering where he and Zack had been intending to go this evening – to meet up with Dill and Zane, and heading to the battle of the bands. Don't know how much fun I'll have now, Cloud thought, as he grabbed his jacket, but it's better than sitting around here feeling sorry for myself. He shut the lights off in his room as he hastily left, shutting and locking the door behind him.
Maybe it won't be so bad, going out without Zack, Cloud told himself. I mean - it sucks that he's gone so suddenly, obviously. But at least I'll be with friends...the few that I have here, anyway. He checked his watch, and walked across the street, heading toward Kimo's, where he knew Dill and Zane would be waiting.
After hurriedly packing some toiletries and essentials into his Shinra-issued duffel bag, Zack practically flew out of his apartment, nearly forgetting to lock up behind himself in his haste. Lazard's voice had sounded clipped and brusque during the brief telephone call; it made Zack wonder what was wrong. Zack knew something had to be up, with the haste in which he'd been summoned and assigned to go to Wutai immediately.
Gathering his items, Zack hoisted the duffel bag over his shoulder, and set out, his destination being the briefing room. The SOLDIER's worries were confirmed when he entered the room and saw both Lazard and Angeal standing there silently. Angeal's face was ashen, and bore a fretful expression. Zack's instincts had been correct - something was very wrong.
"Angeal," Zack blurted, setting his bag down on the floor as he went over to his mentor. "What's the matter? And...where's Genesis?" he asked, looking around.
"That's exactly what's the matter," Angeal told Zack in a dull monotone. "Genesis...is gone."
"Gone?" Zack echoed. "What do you mean gone, Angeal?" His eyes flit back and forth from Lazard to Angeal, worriedly, looking to either one for an answer.
Lazard cleared his throat before explaining. "I was just briefing Angeal on the situation before you arrived, Zack," he said. "It seems...that Genesis has defected. He was sent to Wutai - "
"What?" Zack interrupted, disbelieving. "Angeal - is this true? Where did this come from? I mean, I just saw Genesis the other day, and he seemed fine!"
"Slow down with the questions, puppy," Angeal cautioned Zack, with a weary smile. "I...I just don't know, Zack," the elder SOLDIER continued, shrugging his shoulders. "As you said...Genesis seemed fine. But I guess that injury of his...something happened where it didn't heal - "
"What injury?" Zack blurted, interrupting again. "Sorry, Angeal," he said apologetically. "I don't mean to keep interrupting, I'm sorry. Just...go on, please."
"We were battling each other, maybe a month ago, in the training room. The three of us - myself, Genesis, and Sephiroth," Angeal explained. "Things...got heated between Gen and Seph. Of course, that left me in the middle, with the two of them hissing at each other like cats."
"Of course," Zack murmured, nodding. He knew all too well how Sephiroth and Genesis would frequently push each other's buttons, although it was usually good-natured. "What happened?"
"Genesis was injured," Angeal said. "His blade struck mine, breaking it…and the piece that fell off, pierced his shoulder. And of course, you know Genesis...I believe his pride was hurt more than anything. Initially, anyway. The wound...it got worse. He took pains to hide it from me, but I knew something was wrong. That it wasn't healing as it should."
"I wonder why it didn't heal? I mean...the Mako in our systems...that's supposed to help us heal, right?" Zack asked, perplexed.
"It accelerates the regeneration of tissue, yes," Lazard said, cutting in. "I hate to break this up, but we really must get you two out to Wutai, immediately. Reno is standing by, ready to fly you both out."
Angeal nodded, and clapped Zack on the shoulder, gazing steadily at him. "Right," the SOLDIER said. "Let's do this, Zack. Let's finish this war...and hopefully, we'll find Genesis...talk some sense into him, and bring him home."
"Yeah, I'm ready," Zack replied, setting his jaw firmly. "Director?" he said, addressing Lazard. "Will you be staying here at headquarters?"
Lazard shook his head negatively. "No," he replied slowly. "I will be heading to Wutai, yes - but later on. I have a few things to take care of here before I leave. I will reconnect with you both when I get up there."
"Understood," Angeal replied, nodding. "Okay, then. Let's head out, Zack."
Zack nodded, and followed alongside his mentor, out toward the transport. He could see the worry lining Angeal's face; no doubt concerned for the MIA Genesis. They've been friends forever, but only got involved with each other recently, Zack thought, recalling Angeal's revelation that he and Genesis were now in a relationship. I can't imagine how worried I'd be, if it was Cloud who was MIA, Zack thought sympathetically. He pictured the young cadet's face as he got onto the helicopter behind Angeal, and smiled wistfully.
I haven't even taken off yet, Zack thought ruefully, and I'm missing you already, Cloud. Gods, I hope we accomplish our mission quickly and successfully, so I can come back home to you soon. Sighing, he nodded to Reno, who was in the pilot's seat, going through his pre-flight checklist. "Ready when you guys are," Zack told them, as he took his seat.
"All right then," Reno drawled, flipping switches on the instrument panel as he adjusted his headset. "Sit back and relax, yo. I'll have us up there in no time." As the helicopter lifted off, an unfortunate and fleeting thought went through Zack's head.
You know it's a possibility any time you ship out...any SOLDIER knows that...but good Gaia, what if I don't come back this time? What if that was the last time I'll ever see Cloud? He blanched, and tried to push the thought out of his head, as Reno piloted the helicopter into the sky, the skyline of Midgar's upper plate soon vanishing from sight.
Cloud could see the question in both Zane and Dill's eyes as he entered the sushi bar. Where's Zack? He already knew they'd ask, and so Cloud decided to just come out with it before the question was even uttered. He took a seat next to Dill - and across from Zane, who, Cloud noted with some amusement, was seated next to Quinn. She was a petite girl, with black hair cut in a short pixie style, some of it left longer in the front, sweeping over her eyes. Her eyes were a brilliant, sky blue with a hint of lavender – instantly reminding Cloud of Zack. Almost looks like she has Mako eyes, Cloud thought, recalling what Zack had told him about vivid eye color being a mark of those in SOLDIER.
"Zack's gone to Wutai," Cloud told his friends as he sat down in the booth. "Lazard called him right after you guys left. Hey, you must be Quinn," Cloud said in greeting to the girl. "Nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you too, Cloud," Quinn said sweetly. "And it's nice to finally get out, you know? I think my brain is fried from materia class," she moaned.
"It's not that hard, Quinn," Zane said, a bit condescendingly. "Really. It just takes practice."
"Not everyone's a complete dork like us, Zane," Dill reminded him, grinning. He turned to Cloud, giving him a sympathetic glance. "So just like that, Zack's shipped out, eh? That sucks, man."
"Yeah," Cloud said quietly. "I...miss him already. But , I didn't want to sit around and mope, either...so here I am."
"Well, I'm glad you're here, Cloud!" Quinn said, grinning. "We'll have fun tonight...a few girls from my floor will be there too." Cloud and Dill both held back a snicker as they saw Zane rolling his eyes. "Oh," Quinn added. "We only just ordered appetizers, but here's a menu," she told Cloud, shoving the menu toward him across the table. "The Ultima roll is really good," she informed him.
"Ultima roll?" Cloud repeated, amused. "Wonder what's in that."
"Well, hopefully not materia of the same name," Dill cracked. "I've never seen that kind of materia, by the way...it's supposed to be very rare."
"You weren't paying attention in class, were you, Dill?" Zane chided, grinning. "Lieutenant Runderson went over all the rare types of materia the other day. The rarest one has never even been seen, so it's pretty much chalked up to existing only as a myth."
"I was paying attention, ass," Dill retorted, grinning as he popped a rice cracker in his mouth. "Knights of the Round is the rarest one, according to legend. But yeah...it probably doesn't even exist...just another fairy tale," he said dismissively.
"Most myths or legends have some shred of truth behind them," Cloud said thoughtfully, closing the menu. "Maybe it's out there somewhere, who knows?"
"Yeah, okay, Strife," Dill said, jeering. "You think you'll find it someday? I mean...Runderson said it's like, ten summons in one. Ten! That is unreal, man. Such a thing cannot be possible," he declared dubiously.
Cloud shrugged his shoulders as the waiter came by to take their order. "Who knows, Dill," he replied, smiling at the redhead. "Maybe I will find it. Someday."
"Well, good luck with that, Cloud," Quinn said in a teasing tone. "Everyone ready to order?" she polled the table. As her companions nodded, Quinn started with her food order, and instructed their server to bring them some sake.
The drinks and food were brought out quickly, and the pleasant banter between the friends over dinner comforted Cloud. At least I'm not moping in my room, he reasoned. As enjoyable as the evening was becoming- and Cloud was ever grateful for the acceptance of his newly-found friends, he still felt hollow, detached. Zack...things just aren't the same without you here. It was true; in the brief time that Cloud had known Zack, and had come to love him - the young SOLDIER was a bright, constant thing in his life, which was quite frequently in a state of chaos.
Cloud sighed without realizing it, as he grabbed a piece of pickled ginger with his chopsticks, and carefully lay it on top of his sushi roll. Dill made a sympathetic clucking noise. "Guess you must really miss Zack, huh?" he muttered quietly, an odd expression on his face.
"Yeah," Cloud replied. He shook his head, trying to bring himself out of his reverie. "Sorry," he said apologetically. "I don't mean to be a downer."
"Don't apologize," Dill said, trying to reassure Cloud. He hooked an arm across the blond cadet's shoulders in a casual manner. "And, tonight'll be fun. I mean, I'm sure some of the bands will suck, but that just means we can heckle them, right?"
Zane groaned. "Please don't get us thrown out of there like you did last time?" he pleaded.
"Hah," Dill snorted. He removed his arm from Cloud, elbowing him good-naturedly, and turned his attentions back to his meal. "This is a different club than last time, Zane. Gods, you worry so fricking much, you're like my dad."
Quinn giggled at this as Zane huffed indignantly. "I do not," he retorted.
The waiter soon came by with their bill, and everyone fumbled with their wallets, searching for the correct change. Dill threw a twenty gil note on the table, and shook his head at Cloud, when the cadet moved to place his money on the table. "My treat," Dill said with a wink. "Okay," the redhead continued, standing up as he spoke. He gave Cloud a quick nudge with his elbow. "Cloud and I are going to take off, leave you two lovebirds alone! Meet you later at the club."
Quinn blushed as Zane stared in disbelief at a grinning Dill, who was shoving Cloud out toward the door. "What—?" Cloud began, but was unable to finish his question, as Dill escorted him outside, stifling his laughter.
"What the hell was that about?" Cloud asked once they were outside. "I thought Zane hated her?"
"The hell he does," Dill scoffed, lighting up a cigarette as they walked along the promenade. "He's such a dumbass. He has no idea what to do, so…I gave him a little shove. What? Why you looking at me like that, Cloud?"
Cloud grinned, shoving his hands in his pockets. "Nothing. That was…pretty sneaky though, Dill."
"It was, wasn't it?" Dill remarked, chuckling. "Don't worry, though. Zane'll thank me in the end. That dude needs to get laid."
"So do I," Cloud muttered automatically; then blushed as he noticed Dill staring at him with a smirk. "Um - sorry. I didn't mean to say that out loud - "
"It's okay, Cloud," Dill replied, sighing. "I know you miss your guy. I've gotta admit, though - I'm kind of jealous. I mean, way to go for the brass ring, Strife, landing a first class SOLDIER!" he said teasingly.
Cloud's face reddened even further. "Yeah, well, um...I didn't exactly expect any of this to happen. It just...kind of did, you know?"
"Lucky," Dill murmured. "Well - I'd say you deserve some good luck now, ya know? The year didn't start off too great, eh?"
"Don't remind me," Cloud muttered. They approached the club, and a large queue had already formed, snaking around the perimeter of the building.
"Hey, Cloud," Dill said seriously, turning toward him as they took their place at the end of the queue. "I didn't mean to give you so much crap...about you and Zack. I just wish that I could find someone too." He sighed, shoving his hands in his pockets, as the line began to shuffle forward.
"I hope you do too, Dill," Cloud said sincerely. "Who knows...maybe you'll meet someone here," he remarked, nodding toward the club's entrance and grinning.
"Hmm," Dill murmured gazing thoughtfully over the crowd. "Maybe. Okay, Cloud. It's time for Operation 'Get Dill Laid.' You ready? I'm counting on you as my wingman!" he said brightly.
"Oh gods," Cloud murmured, stifling a laugh as they paid the cover charge and entered the club. "What am I getting myself into here?"
On the flight to Wutai, Zack took great pains to avoid the conversation topic of "Where's Genesis." Just by studying Angeal's worried face, Zack knew that bringing up the subject would only make things worse. So he kept the conversation light, and wondered a bit if he might be making things worse; almost as if he was pretending everything was okay.
Everything is not okay, Zack mused, as he discussed the hopefully benign topic of swords and weaponry with Angeal. Genesis is MIA, and now they think he deserted...
Zack looked over at Angeal, suddenly aware that his mentor was addressing him. "You know what I always say, Zack," he remarked, caressing the handle of the Buster Sword, which was propped up next to him. "Use brings about wear and tear...and rust. It's wasteful."
Zack laughed easily, amused by Angeal's conservative attitude toward using his weapon. "I know, Angeal," he replied, chuckling. "You always say that! But...what if you actually need it this time? We could be walking into anything, once we get to Fort Tamblin."
"I know," Angeal said, nodding. "But I can still do a fair amount of damage with materia...and, with these," he commented, flexing his heavy fists.
"I'll say," Zack murmured in agreement. "Well, let's hope it doesn't come to that." And let's hope we find Genesis, he thought to himself.
"Coming in low over the southernmost point of Wutai," Reno called back to his passengers. "I'm dumpin' ya off here, boys. You'll have to hike through the mountain pass...sorry about that. If I come in over the north side, you'll lose the element of surprise."
"It's fine," Angeal said gruffly, as Reno the helicopter dipped lower, preparing to land it. "A little stroll isn't going to hurt either one of us."
"Not at all," Zack agreed readily, quickly checking his materia and sword before disembarking. As soon as Reno landed the chopper, he and Angeal both unstrapped themselves from their seats, and exited the helicopter.
"Reno, make sure you stand by," Angeal instructed. "One of us will radio you when we need to be lifted out of here."
"Roger that, yo," Reno replied lazily. He leaned back in his seat, relaxing. "I'll be right here when you're ready. Tseng'll be coming in later, too, he's bringing Lazard, I'm told."
"Let's go, Zack," Angeal urged quietly, as the younger SOLDIER jumped out of the helicopter, landing on the ground. "Let's bring Genesis home."
It was a decent hike through the mountain pass of Wutai, up and over the rope bridge that connected the southern half of the island nation with the northern side. Angeal remained even quieter than he was normally; the much-chattier Zack usually filled up the silence with his cheerful banter, whenever Angeal was in Silent Mode. Yet now, with the knowledge that Genesis was MIA, and possibly a Shinra deserter, even Zack wasn't in the mood for small talk.
They'd just passed over the rope bridge, when Angeal brought up the subject himself. "Don't know what in the hells Genesis was thinking," he muttered. "I just hope...that I can reason with him, if we find him."
"When we find him, Ang," Zack corrected gently. "I'm...sorry. Sorry that you're going through this. I didn't want to talk about Genesis until you brought him up, but...I know you're worried about him. I am too, you know."
Angeal sighed wearily as they made their way down the hill; plumes of smoke from the northern village were now visible, and the muffled sounds of fighting echoed through the air. They were now closer to their target: Fort Tamblin.
"I appreciate that, Zack," Angeal said, turning to the younger man. "He's my best friend, you know? I don't want to think about it...but I don't know what I'll do if something's happened to him. And if it's true that he deserted...well, then I guess it'll be over between us. I cannot have someone in my life that does not behave honorably."
"Maybe...well, maybe if he did desert the army...maybe he had a good reason?" Zack offered helpfully. The suggestion was met with a glaring frown by Angeal. "There is no reason on Gaia that is 'good' enough to behave so dishonorably, Zack," he snapped. "Have you learned nothing from me?"
"Don't talk down to me, Angeal," Zack retorted. "I understand what you're saying, about honor - I do! But Genesis would never do that!"
"I'm sorry, Zack," Angeal murmured in apology. "I hope you're right...I don't want to believe it myself, that Genesis could do such a thing. Look sharp, now," the SOLDIER continued in a low voice. "Make ready your weapon, just in case; we're nearing the fort now." As they crept along, taking care to hide behind trees and shrubbery as they advanced, Zack and Angeal took in the sight of Fort Tamblin looming before them. The fortress was heavily guarded in front by scores of Wutaian troops; the SOLDIERS would, of course, have to proceed cautiously.
"Some of our Shinra troops are already here," Angeal informed Zack. "They flew out before we did." Anticipating Zack's next question, as he saw Zack looking around, searching for the men, Angeal grinned, and told him, "Troops are in hiding, waiting for my next command. I'll inform them we've arrived."
Zack nodded, tightening his hand around the handle of his sword, as Angeal took out a cell phone and punched in a number. "This is Hewley," he barked into the phone. "We're here now, just outside the entrance. We'll await your cue."
"What's our cue?" Zack asked, after Angeal ended the call.
"A bomb," Angeal replied solemnly. "Company B is going to set off an explosion, to distract the Wutaians - that's our cue to move in."
"Got it," Zack replied, crouching a bit as he and Angeal took cover behind a low-lying hedgerow. Once again, Zack's thoughts briefly turned to Cloud; he wondered what the young cadet was doing. Hope he went out with his friends, or something, Zack fretted. I wouldn't want him to sit at home worrying about me. He smirked, realizing that he was doing the very same thing he hoped Cloud was not doing - worrying.
The noise of the explosion jarred Zack out of his complacency, and he sprang to his feet, locking eyes with Angeal. "Game time," Angeal whispered, hoisting the massive Buster Sword over his shoulder. "Flanking positions as we approach, Zack." The pair silently crept toward the fortress, weapons unsheathed and ready.
A Wutaian guard - a young man who didn't look to be more than Cloud's age - was the first to spot Zack. He raised an alarm, crying out, as he rushed toward Zack, brandishing his katana. Zack stepped forward, sword raised, and he quickly struck the guard down. Several more rushed at Zack in a group; swinging his sword in a large arc, Zack skillfully felled four men with several blows of his weapon. He looked over at Angeal, and saw several bodies lying motionless on the ground, as Angeal caught Zack's gaze.
"Everything okay?" he asked Zack briefly. The younger SOLDIER nodded affirmatively. "Yeah, I'm good," he replied. "Looks like we took down their front line, anyway."
"Don't get too cocky," Angeal warned. "There will be more where those guys came from. Stay sharp."
"I am," Zack said, nodding. "Don't worry about me. Angeal, what's our next move?"
"You take the dojo," Angeal replied authoritatively, nodding toward the structure located behind Fort Tamblin. "I'll secure the fort, make sure we're clear out here; after that, we'll reconnoiter in the central area. After the entire area's secure…we'll begin the search for Genesis."
"Damned right we will," Zack replied brusquely, shouldering his sword. He wiped a bead of sweat from his forehead, and took a deep breath. "Good luck, Ang."
"You too," Angeal replied. "I have faith in you, puppy," he called out over his shoulder as he left, smirking.
"Hey!" Zack called to Angeal's retreating figure. "I'm not a puppy!" He split off from Angeal, heading in the opposite direction, toward the small dojo. He narrowed his eyes, squinting; the sun was beginning to set, and visibility would be growing poor fairly rapidly. Zack drew back as a small, shadowy figure darted across his path; he raised his sword as the figure flew toward him, apparently intending to attack.
It was a small child, fists flailing – she couldn't have been more than ten to twelve years of age, Zack reckoned. "Go away, Shinra bastards!" the girl shrieked, her small fists pummeling Zack. "I can take down all of you! I'm the greatest ninja that Wutai – and the world – has ever seen!" she declared confidently.
Zack stifled a laugh, and hid a grin – this kid was serious, and the last thing he wanted to do, was to hurt some little girl's pride. War is hell, he thought, suddenly morose. But most of all, on the kids who grow up with it…not knowing anything else.
Damn, this girl has some sharp nails! Zack thought, coming out of his musings. The girl was still flailing furiously at him, scratching and jabbing at him. Might as well play along with it, the SOLDIER finally thought. Let her think she got the best of me…and maybe she'll go away. I'm not about to hurt some kid just to secure this area.
He ducked and rolled to the ground, feigning an injury. "You got me, ninja!" he pleaded, trying to sound pained. "Ow, ow, ow! Please…stop it!" he cried theatrically, moving his head to dodge her tiny fists.
"You give up so easy, huh?" the young girl crowed triumphantly. "I knew it. I'm telling my dad, I just kicked a SOLDIER's ass! Ha ha ha!"
Zack continued to lay on the ground, groaning as if he'd been injured and overcome by the petite girl. Of course he hadn't been; he was faking it, for her benefit. He lay there quietly, feigning that he'd slipped into unconsciousness, trying his damnedest not to laugh as the self-proclaimed little ninja toed his seemingly motionless body with a sneakered foot.
"Guess I really did it," the girl murmured, her voice tinged with awe. "Shit, wait until dad hears about this! Godo's daughter can kick some major ass after all!" Zack waited until the sounds died off, and he was sure the girl had disappeared. He stood up quickly, glancing around, in case the girl had decided to double back and check on her 'handiwork' again. "Godo's daughter?" Zack repeated, wondering. "Could that have been…the Kisaragi girl?"
Shaking his head, and knowing he had a job to do, Zack quickly pushed the thought out of his head, and proceeded on to the dojo. Pushing the door open, two monsters - chimera, Zack thought quickly - flew at him instantly. Raising his sword, Zack slashed through the two creatures quickly, killing them both. A third monster sprang up from the shadows, just behind Zack, and he spotted it out of the corner of his eye just before it struck. He dropped and rolled underneath the creature as it leaped into the air, and slashed at its gut with his sword. The beast shrieked in pain, and fell to the ground, nearly crushing Zack; the monster would have landed right on top of him, if Zack had not quickly rolled himself out of the way.
Wiping blood and sweat out of his eyes - not even sure if it was his blood, or that of the beast's - Zack slowly got to his feet, relishing the sound of silence around him. Mako eyes quickly scanned the area; there seemed to be no other creatures lurking about the dojo. The three beasts he'd just felled lay lifeless on the floor, their chests no longer expanding and contracting to take in air.
"Looks pretty dead to me," Zack muttered to himself, wiping the blade of his sword on his pants. He wrinkled his nose in distaste at the stench of blood. "Gods, that stinks." He turned on his heel, heading back out the front door of the dojo, when he felt - and heard - a sudden whoosh behind him, and a taloned claw reached around his shoulder, piercing the flesh.
"Ow, damn it!" Zack yelped, spinning around. He gaped at the sight before him; it was the monster he'd just gutted, and presumed was dead. Oh shit, Zack fretted. Not quite dead yet, is he. Shit! Zack scrambled to get a grip on his sword, but the handle, still wet with blood and sweat, was sliding in his gloved hand. "God damn it!" he roared, falling on his back. He kicked up at the beast, which was now bearing down on him. The monster's guts were spilling out through the hole Zack has sliced through its side, and the stench was overpowering, causing Zack to gag. Still, the wound seemed only to make the beast angrier; Zack recognized a fire in its eyes, and knew the creature wasn't about to cease its attack.
He felt a sharp sting in his forearm, as a talon sank into the flesh; the pain caused Zack to momentarily lose his already tenuous grip on his sword, and the monster used its long, prehensile tail to flick the weapon out of Zack's reach. "Oh gods, I am totally fucked now," Zack moaned, the beast pinning both of his shoulders against the floor.
Cloud...I'm so sorry...I tried...tried to come home safe like you asked me to. I love you...
Suddenly Zack felt the pressure on his shoulders lessen, and the creature turned its head, distracted by something. Zack scrambled back, away from the monster, feeling around for his sword. He grinned widely once he saw the reason for the creature being distracted - Angeal. The SOLDIER had stabbed the monster in the back with the Buster Sword, and beheaded the thing in one, smooth stroke of the oversized weapon.
"Angeal, gods...am I glad to see you!" Zack exclaimed. He went over to where Angeal was squatting near the dead monster, carefully wiping the grime from the blade of his beloved sword. Angeal looked up briefly and smiled at Zack, then finished polishing his blade.
"Uh...thanks for that, man," Zack said gratefully, scratching his head awkwardly. "You saved my life. But um...Angeal? I thought you didn't like using your sword? I remember you said it was wasteful," he said teasingly.
Angeal stood up and clapped a hand on Zack's shoulder and grinned. "You're worth more than my sword, Zack," he said softly. "But only a little."
"Thank you," Zack said sincerely. "I thought I was a goner - I could have sworn that thing was dead!"
"Never turn your back on the enemy, Zack," Angeal cautioned him. "Fort is secure now...we're going to head back out into the forest, our troops have a camp set up out there. Lazard and Tseng will hopefully have arrived by now."
"Okay," Zack said agreeably. "Let's go."
It was well after midnight when Cloud stumbled back to his dorm room, feeling slightly tipsy from a few too many beers. Dill - along with a second-year cadet named Mason, who the redhead had picked up at the club - walked Cloud back to his room, good-naturedly cautioning him not to throw up all that beer. Cloud smiled ruefully, recalling the unfortunate incident where he'd vomited on his amusement park date with Zack.
"Zack..." Cloud uttered the name aloud, his voice breaking the still silence of his dorm room. The lack of a reply only served to further remind Cloud that Zack was not there. "I miss your voice," he whispered, as he lay back in his bed, kicking his shoes off as he stared at the ceiling. The room was spinning only slightly now, as Cloud's hangover began to subside.
You'd be laughing at me now, Zack. And I know I'll probably have a righteous headache in the morning. Still, much to Cloud's surprise, he'd actually had a pretty enjoyable evening out with his friends. He grinned, recalling Dill's antics as his friend tried hitting on anyone who looked remotely 'available' at the club. Interestingly enough, there had been no sign of Quinn and Zane at the club.
"I bet they're having a huge fight now," Cloud had fretted. "Maybe we shouldn't have left them alone like that, Dill."
Dill had waved Cloud's concerns off with a snort of laughter. "They'll be fine. I bet they're shagging each other rotten now. I suppose I'd better knock a few times when I head back to my room," he remarked, grinning wickedly.
Cloud began to feel a bit out of place, was when Dill worked his charms on Mason - an older cadet of medium height, with dark hair, green eyes, and a chiseled jaw. "Mine," Dill had declared to Cloud, pointing at his conquest as he downed a shot of liquid courage. "Wish me luck with this one." And Dill's easy, flirtatious manner seemed to do the trick; Cloud was rather impressed with how quickly Dill had convinced Mason to get out on the dance floor with him. It was then that Cloud really began to feel like a fifth wheel, and began concentrating more on drinking. One beer followed another all too easily, and before he knew what was happening, Cloud felt pleasantly buzzed.
The alcohol had finally caught up to him when he saw Dill bring Mason over - apparently wanting to introduce him to Cloud - and the blond cadet slid off of his barstool, hitting his chin on the bar. "S'okay," Cloud had murmured. "Jus' a little drunk. I'm arright..." Dill and Mason then insisted on walking Cloud back, just to make sure he got to his room safely - and, without passing out along the way.
Cloud had swayed drunkenly as he waved at Dill and Mason, shutting the door behind them. "I'll be fine, dun worry," Cloud slurred. "Dun do anyfin I wouldn't...do," he snorted laughing as he bid the two good night, collapsing on his bed shortly thereafter.
As Cloud lay in his bed, the pleasant numb feeling caused by the alcohol began to wash over him, lulling him into a stupor; soon thereafter, he fell asleep, still in his clothes.
Angeal and Zack met up with Lazard before they even reached the camp; the Director had just landed moments before, and had been making his way toward the campsite himself. "Angeal, Zack," he called out, greeting the two SOLDIER's as they walked toward him along the path leading from town. "Just arrived. Tseng is here as well. Have you secured Fort Tamblin?"
"We have," Angeal replied briefly. "I'd like to begin the search for Genesis now...and deal with him as necessary," he said firmly. "I will see to it that he answers for what he has done...if he has indeed deserted."
"Fine," Lazard said distractedly. "Genesis was last seen heading toward Da-chao; let's all of us head up there, I'll have Tseng meet us there as well," the Director commented, flipping open his cell phone to call the Turk Commander.
Zack and Angeal both heard the noise at the same time, and looked at each other curiously. "We're not alone here," Angeal said in a low voice. "Zack - you get Lazard back to the camp safely. I'll deal with these jokers," he said, nodding. Several shadowy figures began to appear, coming out of the mist-covered forest. They appeared to be human, Zack thought, but he couldn't make out any specific details. He noted with some interest, that they were moving oddly.
"Go!" Angeal shouted at Zack, who was standing there with Lazard, hesitating. "Get him out of here! And come back and help me when you're done."
"Okay," Zack murmured, quickly ushering Lazard away from the unknown attackers, who were now circling Angeal. "Sir, let's go!" Zack cried, urging Lazard along. The two men broke into a fast canter, running back down the worn dirt path, heading toward the camp. Zack flinched as he heard the sounds of battle behind him, wishing he could go back immediately to assist his friend and mentor. Gotta get Lazard to safety, then I'll go back, Zack silently vowed.
"We're here," Lazard said, slightly out of breath. Zack stepped forward, addressing a Shinra infantryman who was heading toward the mess tent. "Private," Zack said to the man. "Please escort the Director here to a safe place - we're under attack again."
The infantryman saluted Zack, and nodded. "Understood, sir. I'll alert everyone here. Is the action close by?"
"Too close for my liking," Zack murmured. "I'm heading back to assist Commander Hewley - we may need reinforcements."
"Anything you need, sir, we're at your disposal," the private replied. "Come on, Director," the man told Lazard. "This way."
Zack nodded, and in an instant, was gone, running at top speed back to the area where Angeal had been fighting. "Angeal!" he shouted, raising his sword. It suddenly occurred to Zack that the area was completely silent...and there was no sign of Angeal. "Angeal! Where are you?" A blast of heat hit the side of Zack's face, and as he turned, saw a familiar looking summon. Ifrit.
"Oh shit!" Zack muttered, crouching into a defensive stance as he readied his sword, and ice materia. "You know," he snapped at the fiery summon, now towering over him and about to throw a fireball at him. "This is turning out to be a fairly shitty day. You're going down!" Who the hell summoned this thing, anyway? Zack wondered briefly, not seeing another living soul around.
Ifrit grinned its unnatural, fiery grin at Zack, as it breathed out a jet of fire at the SOLDIER, catching the edge of Zack's boot. "Ow, you fucker!" Zack yelped, stamping on the ground to put out the flames. "Take that!" Drawing back his arm, Zack thrust it forward again, casting an ice spell on the summon. It stunned the monster momentarily.
Thank Shiva that I remembered...well, my Shiva materia, Zack thought with a grin, running his finger over the summon materia ball nestled in the handle of his sword. "Oh, you're going to love this, big guy," Zack said tauntingly. Pointing his sword at Ifrit, Zack cast the summon, and watched the two summons do battle; after several exchanges of fire and ice between the two entities, it seemed that Ifrit was bested by Shiva, and about to retreat.
"Thank Gaia that's over with," Zack murmured, turning away, as he began to search the area for Angeal. "Oh...you have got to be kidding me!" Zack exclaimed, as he felt another blast of heat hit him in the back. "Not again!" He pivoted around to face Ifrit once again.
"Allow me," came a familiar, silken voice. Zack glanced sideways, and saw the tip of masamune glinting in the moonlight, before he even saw the face of the graceful weapon's owner.
"Sephiroth," Zack said, his voice tinged with relief and exhaustion. "Glad you're here. Angeal's disappeared - "
"Hold that thought, " Sephiroth said, cutting Zack off, as he dispatched Ifrit with a single sweep of his masamune. Turning back to Zack, Sephiroth raised a silver eyebrow and said, "You were saying?"
"Uh...Angeal's gone missing, General," Zack reported. "We were ambushed by these men here," the SOLDIER continued, nodding toward the prone bodies lying on the ground. Sephiroth kicked at one of them, rolling the man onto his back; Zack recoiled as he recognized the man's face. "It's...it's Genesis!" Zack cried out, disbelieving.
Sephiroth walked around each body, turning them over one by one, so that they were face up. All of them were identical, bearing the face of Genesis. "Genesis copies," Sephiroth remarked coolly. "These must be the SOLDIERS who defected along with Rhapsodos," he concluded coldly.
"What? Genesis copies?" Zack blurted, feeling exhausted and confused. "How - how is that possible?"
"You'll be briefed when we return to Shinra," Sephiroth told him, in a clipped tone. "It would appear that Hollander has gone rogue as well...and, according to some research papers we've uncovered since his disappearance - Hollander apparently figured out a way to implant Genesis's cells into donor bodies, in order to create a Genesis copy. Clearly," Sephiroth concluded, "Angeal has joined his friend as well, and defected from SOLDIER."
"No!" Zack shouted, protesting. He glared at Sephiroth, blue eyes blazing with fury. "No! Angeal would not betray us like that, I refuse to believe it!"
"Hmpf," Sephiroth grunted, shrugging his shoulders. "We shall see." Sephiroth flipped open his cell phone, and dialed a number. "Yes, we're ready now. Send Reno to fetch us."
"Zack, we're returning to headquarters immediately," Sephiroth told the SOLDIER. "I'll be giving my report to the President and the Vice-President; you are excused from duty for the next twenty-four hours. Get some rest…and report back to Lazard Monday morning for your next assignment. I am not sure when - or where - you'll be shipped out next, but we'll need your help in the search for the two missing SOLDIERS. Also, we're obviously going to need some coverage for classes come Monday morning, with Genesis and Angeal gone."
"I'll fill in wherever I'm needed, sir," Zack offered. "Just let me know."
"I will," Sephiroth murmured. He snarled, kicking one of the Genesis copies out of his way, as he and Zack headed back toward the landing area. "This," he declared, "will not end here."
Cloud's head was pounding as he began to awaken; he had the strangest sensation that the pounding was keeping a steady beat, much like a bass drum. "Oh gods," Cloud moaned, sitting up slightly. The headache wasn't as bad as it had been before; but the drumbeat sensation was not going away. "I need an aspirin."
Someone's knocking at the door, Cloud realized, shaking his head as he noted the time on his alarm clock. It's six in the morning on a Sunday. Who can it be, this fucking early? Grumbling, he shook his head, and forced himself out of bed to answer the door.
Cloud was still feeling sleepy and out of it as he answered the door, rubbing his eyes. Yawning, he unlocked the door, and opened it, and stood there wide-eyed and slack-jawed at the sight of Zack, standing there, still in his SOLDIER uniform.
"You really do have the cutest bedhead, Cloud," Zack murmured, stepping into the doorway as he wrapped his arms around Cloud in a tight hug. "Gods. I missed this. I missed you…so, so much."
"Zack!" Cloud exclaimed, burying his face in the SOLDIER's chest. "I wasn't sure when you'd be back…gods, I'm so glad you're here." He sniffled a bit as he studied Zack's weary face; Zack was smiling, but it was a tired, reluctant sort of smile; not the usual enthusiastic smile that Cloud so loved.
"What's wrong, Zack?" Cloud asked quietly. "Tell me…tell me what happened."
"Okay," Zack replied, sighing. "Aren't you going to invite me inside, though?" he asked, grinning slightly. "I just got back...and I came right here. I'm sorry if I woke you, Cloud...but I had to see you."
"No, it's okay," Cloud replied, smiling. "I missed you...I'm glad you're here. And come on in. Sorry to leave you standing here, I know you must be exhausted."
"It's okay," Zack said, following Cloud inside. He set his duffel bag down on the floor near the closet. "Mind if I sit down here?" Zack asked, nodding toward the small twin bed. "I guess I am a little tired, now that you mention it," he mumbled, yawning.
"Of course not," Cloud said. Zack kicked his boots off, and lay himself down on the bed. Cloud sat at the foot of the bed, hoping that Zack had enough room.
"No, come up here with me, Cloud," Zack said quietly. "It'll be a tight squeeze, but…I just want to hold you."
"Okay," Cloud replied, nodding. He scooted up the length of the bed, and nestled himself into Zack's side. It was becoming quite apparent that Cloud's small bed wouldn't be big enough for the both of them, but Zack didn't seem to mind. He pressed his nose to Cloud's soft blond spikes and inhaled his scent, as he held the cadet to his chest. "I need you, Cloud," Zack whispered. "I've had a pretty bad day."
"Tell me," Cloud pleaded. "Please…tell me what happened. I've never seen you like this, Zack…you're worrying me."
"I'm sorry, babe," Zack replied, tilting Cloud's face up and kissing him. "Mmm. Gods, I wasn't even gone that long, really…but it feels like I was gone forever. So much has happened, in just the past twenty-four hours." Cloud murmured sympathetic reassurances to Zack as he kissed him. "It's okay, now," Cloud whispered. "You're here."
"I guess you're wondering what did happen, then," Zack said, shifting uncomfortably on the bed. "Ow. I think we should go to my place later on, maybe." He smiled at Cloud, stroking his face. "I need to get a quick nap, and that's not going to happen on this bed."
"We can do that," Cloud said agreeably.
"I have some bad news, Cloud," Zack said flatly, the smile suddenly vanishing from his face. "It's…Genesis. And now, Angeal. They're both gone. Disappeared."
Cloud gasped, and sat up, staring at Zack in disbelief. "What?" he blurted, incredulous. "How – what…where did they go, Zack? What do you mean, disappeared?"
"Our mission," Zack explained, "was to finish taking out the rest of the Wutai troops, and bring an end to the conflict. Along with that…we had to search for Genesis. He had suddenly disappeared just the other day, after being sent out there….taking some SOLDIERS along with him. Seconds and thirds, mostly."
"He…deserted, then?" Cloud asked, a sick feeling forming in the pit of his stomach. "Oh gods. That's just…terrible. What about Angeal, what happened to him?"
"I don't know, Cloud," Zack said worriedly. "One minute he was fighting some…Genesis clones. I know, it sounds weird, Cloud," Zack said, noticing the look of alarm on the cadet's face. "I don't quite understand it myself. Sephiroth…he showed up too, and said they'd found evidence that Hollander and Genesis had teamed up. I guess Hollander knew how to take cells from Genesis, inject them into a donor body – "
"And make clones?" Cloud interrupted, amazed. "That's…that's just fucking crazy!"
"Hollander is fucking crazy, apparently," Zack remarked sourly. "Anyway. Lazard showed up late in the day – we got ambushed, I took Lazard back to camp while Angeal fought these copies of Genesis…and when I got back there, he was gone. No trace," Zack concluded sadly. "And Sephiroth jumps to the conclusion that Angeal deserted too, and followed Genesis."
"You don't believe that, though, do you?" Cloud asked quietly.
"No," Zack replied, shaking his head stubbornly. "No, I don't." The SOLDIER yawned and stretched uncomfortably on the tiny dorm bed. "Shit," he muttered, chuckling. "This is not a good place for me to nap. Come with me, Cloud? I want to take a brief nap…but at my place, where there's a normal bed."
"Okay," Cloud replied, stifling a yawn. He grinned. "I guess I'm a little tired too."
"Yeah…I kind of woke you up, didn't I?" Zack commented, chuckling. "Hey. I just noticed….you still have your street clothes on. So what did you do last night, hmm?" he asked teasingly.
"Drank too many beers," Cloud replied with a smirk. "I didn't throw up, though. You'd be proud of me. I went out with Dill and Zane for a bit…and the beer tasted really good."
"You're a lightweight, you know. Gotta be careful with that!" Zack admonished him, jokingly. "Ungh." Zack grunted as he and Cloud sat up, and both slowly stood up. "Let's go to my place, Cloud. I'm sorry I won't be much fun for a while...I really need to get a little sleep...but I'd like you there with me. Unless you're busy?"
"Busy?" Cloud scoffed. "Of course I'm not busy. We can take a nap together...then maybe we'll get something to eat later?"
"Sounds perfect," Zack agreed, kissing Cloud. "Go and grab some clothes. I'm guessing you'll be wanting to change out of those," he said, looking Cloud up and down, and grinning.
"Yeah," Cloud muttered, quickly throwing a few items into his bag. "And I'll be needing a shower, too." The cadet locked turned off the lights, and locked up his room, then walked with Zack across the quad to the officer's building.
"Shit," Zack muttered, fumbling for his key. "Oh. Here it is." Opening the door, he ushered Cloud inside, and made a beeline for his bedroom. Cloud followed behind him, setting his bag down on the floor.
"Sorry," Zack murmured, as he began to undress. "I'm just going to lay down for a while...still tired. Join me?"
"Don't be sorry," Cloud told Zack. "And yeah...I'll join you too, but I think I want to grab a quick shower first. That okay?"
"Of course it is," Zack said tiredly, yawning. His eyes were already beginning to shut as he got underneath the bedcovers. "Thank you, Cloud. For...being here for me."
"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else," Cloud said softly, moving over to Zack's side and planting a soft kiss on his cheek. Within seconds, the SOLDIER was out cold, lightly snoring. Cloud grinned at the sight of Zack's mouth hanging slightly open as he slept.
He went into Zack's bathroom, grateful that he still had a toothbrush there, and quickly brushed his teeth, then took the quickest shower possible, wanting to curl up next to his boyfriend right away. Cloud had barely dried off when he bounded back into the bedroom, and slid under the covers, spooning behind Zack and resting an arm across his torso.
Feeling warm and content, Cloud quickly fell asleep, his breathing becoming synced with Zack's as they lay together, skin-to-skin.
Some time later, Cloud was woken by the sound of running water. He opened his eyes, squinting, and felt a pang of disappointment as he realized Zack had left the bed. Zack must be taking a shower, Cloud reasoned, cocking his head toward the sound of the running water. He grinned and stretched, yawning, as he pulled the covers up tightly.
"What are you covering up for, Cloud?" Zack said, grinning, as he stepped in the room. Cloud sat up slightly and gaped, the covers falling off of his upper body. Zack was still wet from the shower, clad in nothing but a bath towel.
"I could ask you the same thing," Cloud said teasingly. He laughed as Zack whipped the towel from his body one-handed, and flung it behind him, over his head.
"That takes care of that," Zack quipped. "Cloud...are you naked under there?" he said accusingly, smirking.
Feeling suddenly emboldened - not to mention, horny - Cloud looked up at Zack under half-lidded eyes, and murmured, "Why don't you come and find out?"
"Saucy, aren't you?" Zack murmured. He made it over to the bed in two long strides, and flung the covers off of Cloud, who shivered as the cool air of the bedroom hit his skin. "Ha. You are naked," the SOLDIER remarked, leering. "I knew it."
"Yeah. And, I'm cold now," Cloud said, complaining good-naturedly. "No thanks to you."
"Guess I gotta warm you up, then," Zack whispered, laying on top of Cloud as he kissed him hungrily.
"Mmm. Yeah," Cloud murmured, hooking a leg around Zack. The motion brought their erections in direct contact with one another, and both groaned simultaneously at the pleasant sensation. Cloud pulled Zack into a tight embrace, kissing him, and moaning into his open mouth.
"Cloud," Zack said hoarsely. "I...want you. But only if you're ready."
"I'm ready," Cloud said quietly, nodding. "What...do I need to do? I'm just not sure...this is the first time..." he murmured, blushing with embarrassment.
"Don't even worry about it," Zack whispered. "I'll take care of you." Leaning over to the bedside table, Zack grabbed the container of lubricant, and slathered his fingers with it.
"It'll feel cold at first," Zack warned Cloud, "but it'll warm up quickly. I'll just start with one finger...and you stop me if you feel any pain, okay?"
Cloud nodded, his heart pounding wildly. "I will." He shifted on the bed, lying on his back as he opened his legs apart, allowing his lover better access. Zack inhaled sharply as he slowly inserted one finger, moving it around. "Okay so far?"
"Yeah," Cloud murmured. "It feels...good. I'm okay. Hurry, Zack...I want you inside of me."
"I can't rush this, Spikes," Zack said apologetically. "Trust me - if I do, it won't be pleasant."
"Okay," Cloud replied, sighing. "I trust you. I'm just..."
"Horny?" Zack finished, chuckling. He slowly inserted a second finger, and Cloud gasped.
"Yeah," Cloud muttered, breathless. "Horny."
"So am I," Zack whispered, inserting a third finger, and moving all three digits around. Cloud thought he was seeing stars, and arched his back as Zack moved his fingers in and out.
"Ohh," Cloud moaned. Without warning, Zack withdrew his fingers, and began slicking himself up with additional lubricant. He positioned himself over Cloud, who was looking up at him expectantly, his face slack-jawed with passion.
"Ready for me?" Zack asked hesitantly. His own heart felt as if it would beat clear out of his chest; the moment he'd been waiting for had finally arrived, and he hoped it would be pleasurable for Cloud.
"Yes," Cloud whispered pleadingly. "Please, Zack."
"All right." Zack lowered himself onto Cloud, and positioned himself. He slowly eased his length into Cloud, letting out a long groan as he did so. Cloud hissed at the intrusion, feeling an initial spark of pain; that feeling quickly morphed into a more pleasurable sensation, as Zack thrust in and out of him, slowly.
"You feel so good, Cloud," Zack whispered. "So tight. How...do you feel?"
"Awesome," Cloud murmured, wondering if what he was feeling qualified as a religious experience. He laughed at the thought, causing Zack to raise a quizzical eyebrow.
"I'll tell you later," Cloud said, kissing Zack. "Oh gods, Zack...ungh...there...right there," he groaned, as Zack filled Cloud to the hilt.
"Guess I found a good spot?" Zack whispered, kissing Cloud. "I'm going to go harder now, babe," he warned the cadet. "If it's too much, tell me." Zack quickened his pace, thrusting in and out of Cloud rapidly.
"Don't...stop," Cloud whispered, moaning. He wrapped his legs around Zack, as the SOLDIER drove into him harder. "Feels...so good."
Zack snaked a hand down to Cloud's cock, by now painfully hard. Cloud's hand moved down as well, and he entwined his fingers with Zack's.
"Cloud, I'm almost there," Zack warned him, as their hands moved together over the cadet's aching cock, pumping it up and down.
"Me...too," Cloud said, breathing raggedly. Zack arched his back as he felt himself peak, spilling into Cloud. The cadet looked up at Zack's face, eyes screwed tightly shut as he came. Cloud thought it was one of the most beautiful sights he'd ever seen. His pulse quickened as he felt his own orgasm approaching.
"Ungh...Zack..." Cloud murmured helplessly, Zack's hand working his shaft, stroking furiously.
"Come for me, Cloud," Zack whispered. "Gods, you look so beautiful, when your face is like that." Cloud pistoned his hips up, thrusting into Zack's hand as he came, crying out Zack's name as he did so.
Slowly, Zack pulled himself out of Cloud, and kissed him. "I love you, Cloud," he said softly. "So much. That was..."
"Yeah," Cloud said, dazed. "I love you too, Zack."
"I'll get us a towel so we can clean up," Zack told Cloud, kissing him again. He got up and opened the linen closet, grabbing a couple of small towels, and brought them over to the bed, handing one to Cloud.
"Looks like we'll need showers again, eh?" Zack remarked, chuckling. The two fell silent for a moment, as they finished cleaning themselves.
"Was that good for you, Cloud?" Zack asked him, a bit worriedly. It certainly seemed like Cloud had enjoyed their lovemaking, but given everything the cadet had been through, Zack couldn't help but worry.
Cloud laced his fingers through Zack's black spikes of hair, and kissed him. "Of course. It was everything I had hoped it would be. Better, in fact," he said, smiling.
"Well, good." Zack sighed contentedly, rolling over on his back as Cloud curled into his side, throwing an arm around him. "That was a nice welcome home, you know."
"I'm glad I could help," Cloud replied, kissing Zack's collarbone.
"It's good to be home with you, Cloud," Zack declared. "Hey...I want to ask you something."
Cloud lifted his head up, regarding Zack curiously. "What is it?" he asked, feeling suddenly nervous.
"Well, I was just thinking," Zack continued. "You'll be eighteen soon...so, you'll be legal. Which also means you don't have to live in the dorms, if you don't want to."
"What...what are you saying, Zack?" Cloud interrupted, his heart pounding once again.
"I want you to move in with me, after your birthday," Zack said seriously. "You don't have to answer right away, Cloud. I know - I'm laying a lot on you, but I just want you to consider the possibility - "
"Yes," Cloud cut in, kissing Zack. A huge grin was plastered on his face. "Yes, Zack. I would love to."
"That makes me so happy," Zack said, sighing as he nuzzled into Cloud's neck. "Seriously. You have no idea how happy I am right now." He frowned. "I'm going to have to ship out again soon, though. I hope I'm back in time for your birthday - I'll be really pissed if I miss it."
"It's okay," Cloud said. "I understand if you can't be there...duty calls, right?"
"Yeah, you're right...duty calls," Zack agreed. "But sometimes the timing absolutely sucks."
"Well, if you're not home in time, it's okay," Cloud said, shrugging his shoulders. "I mean, it's only my birthday...there's no need to make a big deal out of it."
Zack raised his eyebrows and stared at Cloud. "Um, what? There is every reason for me to make a big deal out of your birthday, Cloud. I'm going to spoil the hell out of you, and don't you dare argue with me!" he warned him, laughing.
"Okay," Cloud agreed. "I won't. But I'm not used to...a lot of attention on my birthday, though."
"Well, get used to it," Zack replied. "Even if we're not together that day, I'll call you. Maybe I can steal a webcam from Kunsel, even," he joked. "Even if I'm gone from you...nothing will ever keep us apart, Cloud...nothing. Got it?"
"I got it," Cloud said, smiling. He lay his head on Zack's chest, basking in the afterglow, and wondering just what he had done right this time, to feel so happy. I am so lucky to have Zack, Cloud thought happily. So damned lucky. I hope this lasts forever.