In the Deepest Part of Love
Ack! It's been a quite a while since I last updated. ^_^""""" I'm really really sorry! Please forgive me by reading this story dedicated to Cloud and Tifa. =)
(Oh yea, remember, just keep reading ^_~)
IT'S CLOUD X TIFA FOREVER!!!!
Illusional Words~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"How's he doing?" asked Cid gruffly, eyeing the young man who sat at the edge of the bed with both hands in his hair.
Barrett shook his head. "Not talking like usual," he answered ruefully. He crossed his arms and sighed loudly. "Haven't talked, haven't eat, hell I haven't seen him move! I haven't felt much better myself anyways." His voice cracked a little. "Tifa was very close to me..couldn't have a better friend than her..."
Nearby, Aeris looked up and wiped her eyes for what seemed like the hundredth time. "She was a good friend....my best friend...I should have done something..." Her sentence ended in a sob as she covered her face with her hands.
Silently Barrett and Cid exchanged glances. Barrett shook his head slightly as Cid folded his arms and leaned back against the window with a sigh.
It had been nearly two weeks after the battle with the monster. Two weeks that Cloud and the members of AVALANCHE had mourned and had forgotten what their mission had been and the purpose of their journey. Two weeks since the start of Cloud's heart breaking piece by piece, bit by bit. Each piece which broke off left immense pain and settled in his stomach, leaving him with a dull, sick ache that ran through his body. He could not think of anything else and he could not find anyone to blame except for himself.
Tifa....Cloud thought in remorse as a tear forced itself through his tightly shut eyes.
He remembered when the ruby eyes had closed from him forever and it felt as though his life had been shut out along with it. No more would the sky be red which reflected from the windows of Tifa's eyes. No more would those red roses shed their petals when they were sad. It was all over...Cloud remembered hearing everyone breaking into sobs or fall into gaps of silence. He didn't pay any attention as he lifted the limp body and started toward Nibelheim. Behind him he heard RedXIII struggling to rise and walk, Vincent carrying an unconscious Yuffie over his shoulders, Aeris hanging on to a weak Cid, and Barrett pausing to pick up his buster sword before following the group.
None of the Nibelheim residents bothered to looked at Cloud and AVANLANCHE as they arrived upon the small town. Those who caught a look at them quickly looked away and busied themselves. Those nearby immediately stepped aside or suddenly found reason to go into the nearest shop or hotel. Some were compelled to stare. They were indeed a sight. A man with a huge gun on his arm with a large buster sword. A tall, mysterious stranger with a young girl over his shoulders. A young woman holding on to a man who continued to muttered obscene language. A huge lion-like creature with a flaming tail. All were covered in dirt and blood and staggered or walked unevenly. But what attracted attention the most was the young man leading this strange group.
He was young with very blue eyes with mako streaks. His hair was covered in dust and blood ran down a side of his face. Cuts and gashes were evident upon his arms and body with blood still drying. He did not appear to limp at all with all his wounds, even with carrying a woman in his arms.
She, too, appeared very young, and very beautiful. Her eyes were closed peacefully, and would have appeared to be sleeping, but all saw the trail of blood which dripped where the young man had walked. There were gashes and blood all over her body, but most figured that the small cuts were not the basis of her mortal wound.
It was a pitiful sight to see. Many felt sorrow for the weary travellers but most of the pity went to the young man who lead the way and the dead woman in his arms. She was so young to endure such a death and had to accept it at this age that one spectator nearby wiped tears from her eyes from the pain of understanding. It was evident that the young man felt more pain than all of them added together, for his eyes shone like the moon when it can not penetrate the clouds at night and water that stood still without a river to push it.
It was until they were far from Nibelheim and into the mountains that the silence was finally broken in the small town, but with quiet murmurs. It was all the same: strange visitors, pity, hope for better fates, and hope for the best.
Never once did the group turned around and looked back. They all walked forward in silence and followed Cloud with a distant look in their eyes. None of them started conversation or uttered as much as a single word as their legs stepped in a slow pattern similar to Cloud's.
They continued on the trail and carefully stepped as they began to ascend. They didn't know where they were going, and didn't bother to ask, for they knew that even if they did, they would still follow the silent leader. None paid attention to the direction they walked. They were dimly aware of the darkness that enveloped them as they walked into a cave. The silent drips ahead noted water, and a glimmer revealed light. Up ahead, Cloud finally stopped.
A bit behind him, Barrett noted the halt of footsteps ahead and finally looked up. The other members paused as well and looked around at the location where the leader had decided as the destination.
Despite the moment of sorrow and sadness, Aeris had to take in a gasp at the beauty of the cave. Colors appeared to caress the walls and with soft touches to leave elaborate designs and patterns etched in. A lake appeared before them and stretched out to the ends of the cave with a patternless, clear blue with still reflections of its quiet surroundings. But what was most intriguing was the oddly shaped, yet beautiful, structure that stood not too far from them in the sky of water. Its height would be not compare with a tree yet it appeared to tower above the AVANLANCHE group. The base appeared as diamonds and it stretched up and out into tips of crystals. Many colors streaked through the structure and even colors with no name joined the variation with patterns and whirls that defined the sense of unknowing beauty.
"This is..." murmured Cloud. His voice tore through the silence like thunder intruding the calm air."This is a Mako fountain..."
"Mako...." started Barrett, gaping at the structure,"You mean...that this is materia in its natural state...?" Cloud merely nodded.
"This is not my first time here," Cloud continued hoarsely. "I was here before...with Sephiroth...and Tifa...."
"........"
Cloud paused and looked down at the young woman in his arms. "Tifa..." he continued. "She loved this cave deeply. Even during the short moment we had together I knew how much she loved this cave. It was more of a symbol to her of independence and how things would be without Shinra. She liked life this way...she wanted life this way...and I...I think...." Cloud dropped his head down and a few tears escaped from the sudden angle. "I think that she should be left where what she loved most..."
"Cloud..." said Aeris softly.
With legs weighing moutains of pain, Cloud stepped out slowly to the edge of the lake where the water caressed the moist land. The still water glistened and seemingly spoke of a soon quiet grave.
Averting his eyes from the silenced woman in his arms, Cloud stared out into the blue that matched his own. He stepped into the water and watched the disturbance in the surface and the ripple of tiny waves that stretched out until all energy was wasted and settled back down. Another series of ripples followed and another, until it seemed the lake lost its serenity and awoke to a new reborn.
It was until the young figure stopped when the lake began to settle once more. Tiny waves lapped against the shore and coldness seeped into Cloud.
Gently he lowered Tifa into the water where it turned pink and spreaded until it disappeared. For a long while Cloud stood there, holding Tifa with the water taking her halfway. Is this really happening...? he thought.
Cloud turned his head, and his questioning eyes locked with those of Aeris. The questioning in his eyes and rejection of truth drove Aeris to shake her head as tears flew off her face. She turned from him and buried her face into Cid's shoulder.
With sad eyes Cloud turned around and faced the truth that laid in his arms. Tifa...is really going to leave me....? he thought.
"Hey...Tifa....wake up, k?" Cloud said softly. "The water's kinda cold...I don't want you to catch a cold, ya know? I don't want you to be in pain or anything. I..I don't want to leave you here...so wake up...please? Tifa? Open you eyes....please...." Tears began to blur his vision. "Please...wake up. We can be together now. You just have to open your eyes and see me..." His shoulders began to shake. "I don't want it to end this way. You....you're the one who give me will through these years. I don't want to leave you here!" His voice elevated without knowing as the group watched without a word. "If I wasn't so careless. If I wasn't so irresponsible. I could have changed it. It should have been me! It's my fault...It's all my fault Tifa! I did this to you. I DID THIS TO YOUUUU...!!! He shouted up in anger and the his voice echoed throughout the cave and vibrated through the walls.
"Cloud...." said a soft voice behind him.
Cloud didn't hear Aeris nor did he care. His voice was hoarse as his arms began to loosen around the young woman.
"Through all those years I had the chance, and now I have no more time to tell you. You don't have to forgive me for what has happened. I understand, but it hurts me that I could not have understood your pain. It should have been me. You have done nothing to derserve this...It should have been me...."
"Tifa...I'm sorry..."
The shaking arms finally loosened and glided through the water and slowly to Cloud's side. The water slowly seeped into Tifa and clothed her with its presence. Her pale white skin changed to a light blue then darker as her hair seemlingly floated within lake. Her arms left her side as though she was embracing her forever quiet tomb. Slowly she began to fade from view as the water were like curtains covering up the final scene.
The members of AVANLANCHE did not know how long they watched; nor did they know how long did their leader stand in the water without moving. It was as though the existance of time was irrevelant and only ripples through water was the only form of pace.
"I will always love you...Tifa...." The silent words echoed and found itself into darkness.
* * *
A sob emitted from Cloud and caught the attention of the trio across the room. Aeris looked up and glanced at Cloud then looked back at Barrett and Cid. Sighing, Barett merely nodded as Cid straightened himself from the window. Both made their way across the room and paused to mutter a few words to Cloud before leaving.
Aeris watched them leave before getting up. Carefully she made her way over to Cloud, trying not make loud footsteps to interrupt the lone soldier.
"Cloud?" said Aeris. No answer. "Cloud...are you....are you hungry?"
"No, Aeris," whispered Cloud.
"You haven't eaten since....since we came."
"I'm not hungry."
"Are you...thirsty, then?"
"No."
"Then do you want to talk?"
"Aeris..."
"Yes, Cloud?"
"Leave me alone...please..."
Aeris stood there, uncertain what to do. She wanted to help Cloud; he looked so sad. It was as though endless winter nights had settled over him and left frost over what was left of his broken heart.
"Cloud....." She reached to place a hand on Cloud to wonder if she could melt that ice, but Cloud knocked her arm away, gently but firm.
"Please Aeris....let me be...."
Aeris brought her hand to her heart. He needs time, and in time I will bring the light to his darkness. Aeris nodded a small nod and headed down the stairs. Behind her she heard Cloud sob again, as though another piece of his heart had fallen.
* * *
"That HURTS!!!" shouted an irritated Yuffie.
"How else do you expect it to heal faster?" replied an emotionless voice.
Without responding, Yuffie groaned loudly as Vincent rubbed her arm with medicated oil. Aeris sat across the table tending to Cid's wounds as Barett and RedXIII watched.
"Why can't we just use the healing materia?" demanded Yuffie. "I don't like Vincent having to give me his type of massage."
"Because," said Vincent, "Cloud has the materia."
"Then go get it from him!"
"Oh? Why don't you go and ask him for it?"
"Because I-" A wave of sadness rippled through Yuffie's face.. "...I don't want to see him so sad..."
Aeris sighed and turned to Yuffie. "I don't expect any of us to talk to him, much less ask him for anything, at this certain time."
Yuffie nodded and sat still as Vincent continued his work. Silence settled over them and even Yuffie ceased her complaints and groans. For a while they sat until Cid shook his head and stopped Aeris, who looked up in surprise.
"Ya know," said Cid, finally breaking the silence. "One of us should really try to get to him. Straight to the point, you Aeris. You're pretty much the only one who can get through that spikey head of his."
"Cid, I don't know....He's really not himself," replied Aeris.
"That's why you should help him be himself!"
"It's not that easy! I don't want to force him either."
"Aeris is right," said RedXIII, stepping from the shadows. He seated himself between Aeris and Cid before he continued. "It was a very great loss for our leader. We should give him more time."
"More time..." muttered Cid. "He had two weeks. Two weeks! He hasn't eaten, drunk, or moved through that whole time! Do you think he's had enough time when he's dead?"
"Cid!" exclaimed Aeris.
"Sorry..." he grumbled.
"What Cid said is quite true, though," said Vincent. "It is even possible to say that he would want to claim his own life."
"Oh yea! Forgot that too!"
"Cid!"
"Sorry..."
"Anyways," continued Vincent, "it would be a good choice for one of us to speak with him. It might not heal him fully, but perhaps it can ease his pain."
"You should go now," said Barrett. "Don't keep him waiting for so long."
Aeris nodded. "I understand," she said as she rose.
"Can I come along?" asked Yuffie.
"No," replied Cid. "You'll be too annoying around."
"What?!" shouted Yuffie. "I'm very sympathic sometimes ya know! I'm not gonna steal or anything!"
"Quiet down," said RedXIII. "We do not need more trouble than there is."
"He started it," inquired Yuffie, glaring at Cid.
"Not until some brat stole our money and materia," muttered Cid under this breath.
Unfortunately, Yuffie heard him. "Are you calling me a brat?!" she demanded. "You old fart!"
"Old fa-You little reject ninja!"
"What did you just call me?!"
The quarrel stormed on with RedXIII and Barett trying to resolve both sides as Aeris made her way up the stairs. The voices behind her slowly died down she ascended higher and neared the room.
What should I say to him? she thought nervously. He didn't want me to help him before...will he let me now? And even if he does, what do I say? I can't just tell him to forget Tifa. No! I don't want anyone to tell me that either. Mentioning Tifa might hurt him more as well. What can I tell him? What can ease him? Oh! This is becoming confusing! I should try my best...
Upon arriving the top of the stairs, Aeris squinted into the darkness, trying to find the form of Cloud.
"Cloud?" she called into the dark. "I think we should talk. I know how things have been very hard for you, but it's also about time that you try to help yourself out of the shell you're in. We all miss Tifa, and maybe if we talked about it things might be easier to take. Wouldn't you agree, Cloud? Cloud? Please answer me." Pause. "Cloud?"
Frowning, Aeris listened hard for any type of response. When there was not a sound that emitted, concern flowed through Aeris and she fumbled around for the light switch.
"Cloud?" she called again when she finally found the switch and turned on the lights, and gasped.
"Cloud...?" said Aeris, gaping at the empty room.
Did he leave? thought Aeris quickly. No, that's impossible. I was downstairs the whole time with Barett and the others. There is no possible way he could have walked by us. But where is he?
She rushed over to the beds and threw back the covers. Both were empty except for the pillows that scattered when she pulled the blanket. Full of concern, Aeris quickly looked under the beds and opened the closet doors. It was all empty.
He couldn't have just disappeared! thought Aeris in despair. She walked over to where Cloud had seated himself for two weeks and laid her hand on that spot of the bed.
It does not feel warm...he has been gone for a long time...Aeris looked at her hand and then brought it into a fist. I have to tell the others!
She turned and was about to run when a cool wind brushed by her and filled the room with its presense. Aeris froze when she felt the caress and slowly turned and her mouth fell open again.
With the shutters unlocked and curtains flowing with the breeze, the window was open.
* * *
It was very late at night and the bar was very lonely after the regulars had left. Only a few had remained, including a young, blonde, SOLDIER uniform-claded man.
He sat alone throughout the whole night even with all the commotion and action that occasionally happens in a bar. He was like the rock that stood in the river where the waves pushed and slapped against it, yet it stands still and uncaring just the same. Many finally lost interest in this newcomer very soon as he proved to be quite quiet and distant from everyone. Even the attractive hostesses became irritated with this handsome man and chose to ignore him since he ignored the nectar that was offered from the eager flowers.
"Hey....yo...." called Cloud groggily. "Give me *hic* another one...."
The bartender glanced at Cloud and shook his head. He reached over and grabbed another bottle and slided down the counter. Cloud caught it without looking up.
"You sure you wanna drink that much?" he called.
"Ya...whatever...." he popped open the bottle and starting filling his mug again like the countless times he did before.
"I've seen the likes of you," the bartender continued. "Drinkin' so much at one time. Always the same. Money, women, fights, more women. What's your problem?"
Cloud looked at him over the rim of his mug while drinking and did not answer.
"Women, I guess." The bartender laughed. "Always women. Ya know why? Money, they just gamble more. Fights, they go look for 'em. Women, they just get drunk then look for a new one. They get drunk to forget so they can start over. I hit it on that one, huh?"
"I wouldn't *hic* count on it," muttered Cloud as he paused to pour another drink.
"So what happened then?" asked a nearby listener.
Cloud finished off the mug before answering. "Never got the chance *hic* to tell her how much *hic* I loved her...."
"Pretty sad I guess," said the bartender. "Where is she now?"
"She's....*hic*.....she's...."
"Yea?"
"She's....she's DEAD!!!!!" Cloud trailed off into a howl and buried his head into his arms and cried loudly in sobs and gutters and hiccups.
"Aww, it's alright man!" exclaimed the bartender. "Just find a new one!"
"Nooo.....I can't do that....*hic* she's *hic* so...different from everyoneeeee......"
"There's always another better!"
Cloud stopped his cries and looked up from his arms and glared at the bartender. "Tifa is one in everything! Ain't no one better than her! NO ONE!" He grabbed the bottle and started chugging it down.
"Hey boy! Get it all down an' I'll give ya 100!" someone shouted.
Laughter. "I'll give ya 1000 if ya don't throw it up!" More laughter.
Heedless of the shouts and cheers, Cloud continued to allow the flow to liquid to continue like a river without an end. It was as though heat had risen into Cloud and burned into him. His body felt as though in flames and the cool liquid going down his throat seemed to rise from the depths to ignite his soul. The lights around him began to blur and the laughter droned away from his ears. He wanted to stop, and yet he didn't, for the cool liquid seemed to soothe his throat then fill his body with tremors of excitement. Sweat seemed to drench him like water that knew no limits. It lifted him, brought him to a new dimension, uncaring of what he left behind. Cloud ever so dimly heard the doors of the bar open.
"Cloud....." he heard a distant voice call. Still drinking, Cloud ignored that voice. He was much into the consumption of this new remedy that left his sanity into non-existence.
"Cloud!" cried Aeris, eyes widening at the young man who sat at the counter, holding a full bottle to his lips. His face was beyond a red coal that burned and even the water that fell like rain did not drench the fire. Laughter filled her ears as the men around Cloud cheered him on and offered money.
"Cloud!" Aeris cried again and hurried over to him. She reached for the bottle and tried to pry it from his hands as she gaped at the countless bottles on the counter. "Stop drinking! You've had too many already!"
From a distant, Cloud heard a woman's voice. He lifted his eyes groggily and then noted two arms trying to take his bottle.
"Ughhmmm!" said Cloud, bringing the bottle out of reach from Aeris and yet still drinking.
"You have to stop!"
The two arms appeared again. A sense of annoyance crossed Cloud's mind as the bottle nearly dropped. He wanted it; he didn't have to give it up. The arms appeared again. This time, he reacted.
Aeris jumped quickly when Cloud suddenly whipped out his arm and nearly swatted her across the face. She stepped back and gaped at him as he resumed to drink. Did he just try to hit me? she thought wildly. No, that can't be. Cloud would never hit me. He's just.....
Aeris' eyes trailed to the many bottles on the counter. He's just drunk.
Silently she stood and watched Cloud's throat in a rhymatic pace. It was not long before the last drop was gone and Cloud emitted a loud groan as he slammed the empty remedy onto the table.
"Give me...another...." he muttered, pushing the bottle away.
"Please....Cloud," started Aeris, advancing slowly. "I've been searching for you for a very long time. Everyone has been very worried as well. Please, let's go." She placed a hand on Cloud and hoped he would not strike her again.
Someone is touching me....thought Cloud. Who...Who is it? He turned his head then winced at the sudden storm that brewed in his head. He tilted to one side as one hand caught himself. My head...so painful...so tired...I want to go to sleep.....
"What's wrong, Cloud?" asked Aeris, catching him before he slipped off the seat.
"Nothin'...."
"Is there anything you want to do?"
The lights blinded him and his vision blurred. "I want to rest..." came a barely audible voice.
Aeris let out a breath of relief. "That's good, Cloud," she said. "Come on then. Everyone is very worried. Let's go." She reached over and slid her arm under Cloud's as she helped him up.
"Hey," said the bartender, coming over, "the bill." He stood there tapping his foot patiently.
"How...much...." muttered Cloud. His head tilted upward and to the side as he clumsily reached inside his pockets and fumbled for his money.
The bartender glanced at the bottles and counted mentally. "5600 gil," he finally answered.
How much did you drink? thought Aeris in amazement as Cloud started counting. He blinked and shook his head a few times then starting counting it one by one. An irritated sigh escaped Aeris as she reached over and took 6000 gil from Cloud's hand and handed it to the bartender.
"You may keep the change," said Aeris as she nearly dragged Cloud out the bar.
* * *
With beads of sweat and quick breaths, Aeris finally laid Cloud onto the bed. He landed face down and in an angle that one leg hung over the side. Aeris shook her head and lifted his leg as she turned Cloud with much effort. She pulled off his boots then pulled him by his shoulders until his head laid on the pillow. Looking at Cloud again, Aeris let out a breath of exasperation. Carefully she lifted Cloud halfway as she jerked the blanket from underneath him.
"Ughh...hmmm...." groaned Cloud as Aeris covered him with the blanket. She tucked him in carefully before sitting herself on a chair beside the bed.
"Phew!" she breathed as she wiped her forehead. "Cloud packed quite a lot at the bar. I wonder how much he did drink." She fixed her eyes on the groaning figure and shook her head. "He should have known better to have drank this much. I would not be very surprised if he will be stuck in bed for days. But then again, it would be good for him to rest, one way or another." Her voice fell silent as Cloud began to quiet down.
* * *
It's hot...
Where am I....?
It's so hot....I have to get out of here....
"Hurry! Check that house!"
What?
"Hey! You alive?!"
He opened his eyes slowly and stared up at buildings in flames.
"HEY! Get up and help!" shouted the man again.
Cloud carefully rose and stood as flames licked at his sides.
Where....am I? I'm in...
....Nibelhiem?
A loud crack jerked him out of his thoughts and drew his attention to a house falling apart in flames and smoke. That house...So familiar....Wait, that's my....Cloud's face fell into horror.
"Mother!" he shouted and leaped into a fast sprint. Cinders and sparks flew from every direction but all Cloud noticed was the burning house that he had spent his childhood in.
"Mother!" He kicked the door in and coughed at the smoke that rose like fog that refuses to be cut. "Mother!" He stumbled over a fallen object as he called and coughed. "Where are you?"
Then he saw her.
She was lying face down, one arm out-stretched as though she was reaching for Cloud. She laid very still even without choking from the smoke, nor did she move to take a breath at all.
Cloud stood for a moment in shock. "Mo...ther...?" He took a step, and a sudden crack above him caught his attention.
He looked up and saw the broken roof smoted in flames and splinters crash down upon him.
Cloud's eyes dilated in fear as he covered his head and felt himself trip. No, don't let this happen! he thought wildly as he felt himself fall toward the floor. This can't be happening! This can't be happening-
He fell flat onto soft grass.
Slowly he brought his arms from his head and slowly looked up. He was in a field of grass and in the distant was a small town.
Cloud pressed his hands into the ground as he lifted himself quickly. "That's....Nibelhiem," he said in disbelief.
A loud growl caught his attention and Cloud spun around immediately. His mouth dropped and he pushed himself back with his arms and looked with complete disbelief.
"I....you.....how can....I killed you!" he managed to stammered.
The white Nibelhiem monster sneered and advanced clumsily. Cloud drew himself further back and tried to run when he found his leg to be in pain. How did I...thought Cloud, but was soon interrupted when the monster lifted a claw. Without thinking, Cloud lifted his hands to try to block the attack, when he found his hands covered in blood.
Blood....Cloud thought. He turned his palms over and stared at the thick redness that streaked through his hands. When did I.....
He never finished his thought when the claw suddenly slashed through him. All Cloud remembered was a cold steel that left his body freezing and the ground was gone beneath him.
He was falling.
He crashed into the water with a huge splash and felt himself sink.
The cold water brought Cloud to open his eyes and take notice of his surrounding. His eyes widened and his arms began to flail wildly at his sides. I can't breathe! Cloud thought as fear crawled into his consciencness.
Forget this....What's going on....Where am I...What's happening.....Cloud stopped and allowed himself to slowly drift through the water as thoughts drifted through his mind. His eyes closed as he waited for the cold darkness to take him. What's happening to me....Where am I.....How did this happen.....I want to go...I want to leave....He opened his eyes.
And saw her.
His heart froze along with his soul.
Tifa.....
She floated alone and freely, her arms holding her quiet tomb. Her face was content like white snow that took the sunlight without question. She seemed to be laying very still, and only her flowing hair noted the soft movements. A sudden wave passed through and Tifa's right arm followed it and lifted up toward Cloud. It extended and reached like a sapling eagerly taking droplets of rain.
Tifa....
Cloud extended his arm and reached out for Tifa. I won't leave you alone...thought Cloud, feeling happiness surge through him. I'll be with you...Just believe in me...I'll be joining you very soon....
He reached and almost touched her fingers, when a darkness emitted around her arm. Suprised, Cloud stopped and stared. The darkness slowly grew and soon engulfed Tifa as it began to pull her away from the startled young man.
"No!" shouted Cloud. He struggled to move forward when he felt himself being pulled back as well. "No! Let go of me!" He thrashed wildly and pulled at the unseen force. It seemed hopeless and all Cloud could do was watch with desperate eyes as Tifa drifted farther with one arm out-reached toward him.
Cloud reached out as well as the water around his face mingled with salt. "Tifaaaa...!!!!" he shouted. "Don't go! Don't leave meeee.....!!!!"
All he remembered was darkness.
* * *
"Uhhh....where am I....uhhh.....no...." mumbled Cloud.
Aeris turned and looked at the young man in bed. He's having a nightmare, she thought and rose.
He looks so troubled...Aeris carefully brushed back a few strands of his hair.
"Poor guy..." she whispered.
"I...uh....no...don't go....I...." Cloud continued to mumble. "Don't.....no...." Cloud suddenly thrashed and surprised Aeris to jump.
"Cloud?" She placed a hand onto his shoulder. "You're having a bad dream."
"Uhhh.....don't...noooo........DON'T LEAVE ME!" he shouted as he jerked up from the bed and startled Aeris that she seated back onto the chair and nearly fell off. She caught herself quickly before turning to observe the panting man.
"Are you alright?" she asked before getting up to rest her hands on his shoulders and turned Cloud to face her.
"You're drenched!" exclaimed Aeris. "Wait here, I'll go get a towel for you."
She rose and barely took a step when Cloud suddenly whipped out his hand and grabbed Aeris by her arm.
"No...." he said in a near whimper, "don't go....please...I have something to tell you...."
"Cloud...." said Aeris uncertainly and loosened her arm, "you should rest. Tell me when you're feeling better." She turned to leave again when Cloud grabbed her arm again. She opened her mouth to protest when Cloud suddenly pulled her close and wrapped his arms around her waist and rested his head on her stomach.
"Don't leave me," said Cloud in a frantic voice.
"Cloud....."
"I-I don't know how I should say this...but you can't leave me! I want you to be with me." He looked up at Aeris with tears and earnest in his eyes. "You understand, right? I don't want you to leave me. I want you to be by my side forever!"
Aeris watched unmoving and mouth slightly open. "Cloud..." she finally managed. "What...what are you saying?"
Cloud shook his head furiously. "I can't live my live without you! You....you are the reason why I live. I don't ever want you to leave me!"
His arms tightened around her as small sobs were audible. Aeris looked into the blue eyes and saw only truth that stained the mako streaks. I....thought Aeris as tears slowly crept up. Her arms encircled Cloud and held him close.
"I won't leave you..." she whispered as she wiped away the tears on Cloud's face. His hair was in the way and she gently brushed it away and trailed her fingers through his hair.
"I will always make you happy! I promise to forever care for you! I...I promise to always love you!" Cloud buried his face into Aeris' dress and sobbed loudly.
"I understand, Cloud," said Aeris, sighing quietly. "I feel the same way..."
"I will always love you..." Cloud sobbed again. "That's why....that's why you can't leave me! Don't leave me! Don't leave me, Tifa!"
Aeris froze; her hand stiffened within the golden strands. Her breath cut short and her heart skipped a few beats. There wasn't a sound for a long time as Aeris held onto Cloud.
"Ti......fa......??" she finally whispered.
"You do understand my love for you, right Tifa?" asked Cloud, looking up at Aeris again. "No one can ever come between us. Especially Aeris. She's only a sister to me....you understand, right?"
Aeris closed her eyes from the mako streaks. "Yes....I understand..." She stepped back without saying another word, surprising Cloud to look up.
"Tifa, wait! Where are you going?" cried Cloud, panic rising in his throat.
"I....need to get a towel for you," answered Aeris, loosening Cloud's grip.
"No, wait...." Cloud struggled to stand, but his face suddenly twisted into streaks of pain and he fell back onto the bed. "My head...it hurts so much..."
Aeris sighed and walked toward the stairway. She was about to leave when Cloud called out again.
"Tifa, you'll be back right?"
Pause. "Yes, I'll be back, Cloud."
There was sigh of relief. "I'm glad to hear that. I don't want you to be gone again."
"That's right..."
"Tifa?"
".....Yes?"
"I love you."
"...................I know"
* * *
A/N: I didn't really feel too much compassion for Aeris, but it could be different for everyone else. =) It did get a little sad I guess. I'll try to update more, so keep reading! ^_^ Please review!
Ack! It's been a quite a while since I last updated. ^_^""""" I'm really really sorry! Please forgive me by reading this story dedicated to Cloud and Tifa. =)
(Oh yea, remember, just keep reading ^_~)
IT'S CLOUD X TIFA FOREVER!!!!
Illusional Words~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"How's he doing?" asked Cid gruffly, eyeing the young man who sat at the edge of the bed with both hands in his hair.
Barrett shook his head. "Not talking like usual," he answered ruefully. He crossed his arms and sighed loudly. "Haven't talked, haven't eat, hell I haven't seen him move! I haven't felt much better myself anyways." His voice cracked a little. "Tifa was very close to me..couldn't have a better friend than her..."
Nearby, Aeris looked up and wiped her eyes for what seemed like the hundredth time. "She was a good friend....my best friend...I should have done something..." Her sentence ended in a sob as she covered her face with her hands.
Silently Barrett and Cid exchanged glances. Barrett shook his head slightly as Cid folded his arms and leaned back against the window with a sigh.
It had been nearly two weeks after the battle with the monster. Two weeks that Cloud and the members of AVALANCHE had mourned and had forgotten what their mission had been and the purpose of their journey. Two weeks since the start of Cloud's heart breaking piece by piece, bit by bit. Each piece which broke off left immense pain and settled in his stomach, leaving him with a dull, sick ache that ran through his body. He could not think of anything else and he could not find anyone to blame except for himself.
Tifa....Cloud thought in remorse as a tear forced itself through his tightly shut eyes.
He remembered when the ruby eyes had closed from him forever and it felt as though his life had been shut out along with it. No more would the sky be red which reflected from the windows of Tifa's eyes. No more would those red roses shed their petals when they were sad. It was all over...Cloud remembered hearing everyone breaking into sobs or fall into gaps of silence. He didn't pay any attention as he lifted the limp body and started toward Nibelheim. Behind him he heard RedXIII struggling to rise and walk, Vincent carrying an unconscious Yuffie over his shoulders, Aeris hanging on to a weak Cid, and Barrett pausing to pick up his buster sword before following the group.
None of the Nibelheim residents bothered to looked at Cloud and AVANLANCHE as they arrived upon the small town. Those who caught a look at them quickly looked away and busied themselves. Those nearby immediately stepped aside or suddenly found reason to go into the nearest shop or hotel. Some were compelled to stare. They were indeed a sight. A man with a huge gun on his arm with a large buster sword. A tall, mysterious stranger with a young girl over his shoulders. A young woman holding on to a man who continued to muttered obscene language. A huge lion-like creature with a flaming tail. All were covered in dirt and blood and staggered or walked unevenly. But what attracted attention the most was the young man leading this strange group.
He was young with very blue eyes with mako streaks. His hair was covered in dust and blood ran down a side of his face. Cuts and gashes were evident upon his arms and body with blood still drying. He did not appear to limp at all with all his wounds, even with carrying a woman in his arms.
She, too, appeared very young, and very beautiful. Her eyes were closed peacefully, and would have appeared to be sleeping, but all saw the trail of blood which dripped where the young man had walked. There were gashes and blood all over her body, but most figured that the small cuts were not the basis of her mortal wound.
It was a pitiful sight to see. Many felt sorrow for the weary travellers but most of the pity went to the young man who lead the way and the dead woman in his arms. She was so young to endure such a death and had to accept it at this age that one spectator nearby wiped tears from her eyes from the pain of understanding. It was evident that the young man felt more pain than all of them added together, for his eyes shone like the moon when it can not penetrate the clouds at night and water that stood still without a river to push it.
It was until they were far from Nibelheim and into the mountains that the silence was finally broken in the small town, but with quiet murmurs. It was all the same: strange visitors, pity, hope for better fates, and hope for the best.
Never once did the group turned around and looked back. They all walked forward in silence and followed Cloud with a distant look in their eyes. None of them started conversation or uttered as much as a single word as their legs stepped in a slow pattern similar to Cloud's.
They continued on the trail and carefully stepped as they began to ascend. They didn't know where they were going, and didn't bother to ask, for they knew that even if they did, they would still follow the silent leader. None paid attention to the direction they walked. They were dimly aware of the darkness that enveloped them as they walked into a cave. The silent drips ahead noted water, and a glimmer revealed light. Up ahead, Cloud finally stopped.
A bit behind him, Barrett noted the halt of footsteps ahead and finally looked up. The other members paused as well and looked around at the location where the leader had decided as the destination.
Despite the moment of sorrow and sadness, Aeris had to take in a gasp at the beauty of the cave. Colors appeared to caress the walls and with soft touches to leave elaborate designs and patterns etched in. A lake appeared before them and stretched out to the ends of the cave with a patternless, clear blue with still reflections of its quiet surroundings. But what was most intriguing was the oddly shaped, yet beautiful, structure that stood not too far from them in the sky of water. Its height would be not compare with a tree yet it appeared to tower above the AVANLANCHE group. The base appeared as diamonds and it stretched up and out into tips of crystals. Many colors streaked through the structure and even colors with no name joined the variation with patterns and whirls that defined the sense of unknowing beauty.
"This is..." murmured Cloud. His voice tore through the silence like thunder intruding the calm air."This is a Mako fountain..."
"Mako...." started Barrett, gaping at the structure,"You mean...that this is materia in its natural state...?" Cloud merely nodded.
"This is not my first time here," Cloud continued hoarsely. "I was here before...with Sephiroth...and Tifa...."
"........"
Cloud paused and looked down at the young woman in his arms. "Tifa..." he continued. "She loved this cave deeply. Even during the short moment we had together I knew how much she loved this cave. It was more of a symbol to her of independence and how things would be without Shinra. She liked life this way...she wanted life this way...and I...I think...." Cloud dropped his head down and a few tears escaped from the sudden angle. "I think that she should be left where what she loved most..."
"Cloud..." said Aeris softly.
With legs weighing moutains of pain, Cloud stepped out slowly to the edge of the lake where the water caressed the moist land. The still water glistened and seemingly spoke of a soon quiet grave.
Averting his eyes from the silenced woman in his arms, Cloud stared out into the blue that matched his own. He stepped into the water and watched the disturbance in the surface and the ripple of tiny waves that stretched out until all energy was wasted and settled back down. Another series of ripples followed and another, until it seemed the lake lost its serenity and awoke to a new reborn.
It was until the young figure stopped when the lake began to settle once more. Tiny waves lapped against the shore and coldness seeped into Cloud.
Gently he lowered Tifa into the water where it turned pink and spreaded until it disappeared. For a long while Cloud stood there, holding Tifa with the water taking her halfway. Is this really happening...? he thought.
Cloud turned his head, and his questioning eyes locked with those of Aeris. The questioning in his eyes and rejection of truth drove Aeris to shake her head as tears flew off her face. She turned from him and buried her face into Cid's shoulder.
With sad eyes Cloud turned around and faced the truth that laid in his arms. Tifa...is really going to leave me....? he thought.
"Hey...Tifa....wake up, k?" Cloud said softly. "The water's kinda cold...I don't want you to catch a cold, ya know? I don't want you to be in pain or anything. I..I don't want to leave you here...so wake up...please? Tifa? Open you eyes....please...." Tears began to blur his vision. "Please...wake up. We can be together now. You just have to open your eyes and see me..." His shoulders began to shake. "I don't want it to end this way. You....you're the one who give me will through these years. I don't want to leave you here!" His voice elevated without knowing as the group watched without a word. "If I wasn't so careless. If I wasn't so irresponsible. I could have changed it. It should have been me! It's my fault...It's all my fault Tifa! I did this to you. I DID THIS TO YOUUUU...!!! He shouted up in anger and the his voice echoed throughout the cave and vibrated through the walls.
"Cloud...." said a soft voice behind him.
Cloud didn't hear Aeris nor did he care. His voice was hoarse as his arms began to loosen around the young woman.
"Through all those years I had the chance, and now I have no more time to tell you. You don't have to forgive me for what has happened. I understand, but it hurts me that I could not have understood your pain. It should have been me. You have done nothing to derserve this...It should have been me...."
"Tifa...I'm sorry..."
The shaking arms finally loosened and glided through the water and slowly to Cloud's side. The water slowly seeped into Tifa and clothed her with its presence. Her pale white skin changed to a light blue then darker as her hair seemlingly floated within lake. Her arms left her side as though she was embracing her forever quiet tomb. Slowly she began to fade from view as the water were like curtains covering up the final scene.
The members of AVANLANCHE did not know how long they watched; nor did they know how long did their leader stand in the water without moving. It was as though the existance of time was irrevelant and only ripples through water was the only form of pace.
"I will always love you...Tifa...." The silent words echoed and found itself into darkness.
* * *
A sob emitted from Cloud and caught the attention of the trio across the room. Aeris looked up and glanced at Cloud then looked back at Barrett and Cid. Sighing, Barett merely nodded as Cid straightened himself from the window. Both made their way across the room and paused to mutter a few words to Cloud before leaving.
Aeris watched them leave before getting up. Carefully she made her way over to Cloud, trying not make loud footsteps to interrupt the lone soldier.
"Cloud?" said Aeris. No answer. "Cloud...are you....are you hungry?"
"No, Aeris," whispered Cloud.
"You haven't eaten since....since we came."
"I'm not hungry."
"Are you...thirsty, then?"
"No."
"Then do you want to talk?"
"Aeris..."
"Yes, Cloud?"
"Leave me alone...please..."
Aeris stood there, uncertain what to do. She wanted to help Cloud; he looked so sad. It was as though endless winter nights had settled over him and left frost over what was left of his broken heart.
"Cloud....." She reached to place a hand on Cloud to wonder if she could melt that ice, but Cloud knocked her arm away, gently but firm.
"Please Aeris....let me be...."
Aeris brought her hand to her heart. He needs time, and in time I will bring the light to his darkness. Aeris nodded a small nod and headed down the stairs. Behind her she heard Cloud sob again, as though another piece of his heart had fallen.
* * *
"That HURTS!!!" shouted an irritated Yuffie.
"How else do you expect it to heal faster?" replied an emotionless voice.
Without responding, Yuffie groaned loudly as Vincent rubbed her arm with medicated oil. Aeris sat across the table tending to Cid's wounds as Barett and RedXIII watched.
"Why can't we just use the healing materia?" demanded Yuffie. "I don't like Vincent having to give me his type of massage."
"Because," said Vincent, "Cloud has the materia."
"Then go get it from him!"
"Oh? Why don't you go and ask him for it?"
"Because I-" A wave of sadness rippled through Yuffie's face.. "...I don't want to see him so sad..."
Aeris sighed and turned to Yuffie. "I don't expect any of us to talk to him, much less ask him for anything, at this certain time."
Yuffie nodded and sat still as Vincent continued his work. Silence settled over them and even Yuffie ceased her complaints and groans. For a while they sat until Cid shook his head and stopped Aeris, who looked up in surprise.
"Ya know," said Cid, finally breaking the silence. "One of us should really try to get to him. Straight to the point, you Aeris. You're pretty much the only one who can get through that spikey head of his."
"Cid, I don't know....He's really not himself," replied Aeris.
"That's why you should help him be himself!"
"It's not that easy! I don't want to force him either."
"Aeris is right," said RedXIII, stepping from the shadows. He seated himself between Aeris and Cid before he continued. "It was a very great loss for our leader. We should give him more time."
"More time..." muttered Cid. "He had two weeks. Two weeks! He hasn't eaten, drunk, or moved through that whole time! Do you think he's had enough time when he's dead?"
"Cid!" exclaimed Aeris.
"Sorry..." he grumbled.
"What Cid said is quite true, though," said Vincent. "It is even possible to say that he would want to claim his own life."
"Oh yea! Forgot that too!"
"Cid!"
"Sorry..."
"Anyways," continued Vincent, "it would be a good choice for one of us to speak with him. It might not heal him fully, but perhaps it can ease his pain."
"You should go now," said Barrett. "Don't keep him waiting for so long."
Aeris nodded. "I understand," she said as she rose.
"Can I come along?" asked Yuffie.
"No," replied Cid. "You'll be too annoying around."
"What?!" shouted Yuffie. "I'm very sympathic sometimes ya know! I'm not gonna steal or anything!"
"Quiet down," said RedXIII. "We do not need more trouble than there is."
"He started it," inquired Yuffie, glaring at Cid.
"Not until some brat stole our money and materia," muttered Cid under this breath.
Unfortunately, Yuffie heard him. "Are you calling me a brat?!" she demanded. "You old fart!"
"Old fa-You little reject ninja!"
"What did you just call me?!"
The quarrel stormed on with RedXIII and Barett trying to resolve both sides as Aeris made her way up the stairs. The voices behind her slowly died down she ascended higher and neared the room.
What should I say to him? she thought nervously. He didn't want me to help him before...will he let me now? And even if he does, what do I say? I can't just tell him to forget Tifa. No! I don't want anyone to tell me that either. Mentioning Tifa might hurt him more as well. What can I tell him? What can ease him? Oh! This is becoming confusing! I should try my best...
Upon arriving the top of the stairs, Aeris squinted into the darkness, trying to find the form of Cloud.
"Cloud?" she called into the dark. "I think we should talk. I know how things have been very hard for you, but it's also about time that you try to help yourself out of the shell you're in. We all miss Tifa, and maybe if we talked about it things might be easier to take. Wouldn't you agree, Cloud? Cloud? Please answer me." Pause. "Cloud?"
Frowning, Aeris listened hard for any type of response. When there was not a sound that emitted, concern flowed through Aeris and she fumbled around for the light switch.
"Cloud?" she called again when she finally found the switch and turned on the lights, and gasped.
"Cloud...?" said Aeris, gaping at the empty room.
Did he leave? thought Aeris quickly. No, that's impossible. I was downstairs the whole time with Barett and the others. There is no possible way he could have walked by us. But where is he?
She rushed over to the beds and threw back the covers. Both were empty except for the pillows that scattered when she pulled the blanket. Full of concern, Aeris quickly looked under the beds and opened the closet doors. It was all empty.
He couldn't have just disappeared! thought Aeris in despair. She walked over to where Cloud had seated himself for two weeks and laid her hand on that spot of the bed.
It does not feel warm...he has been gone for a long time...Aeris looked at her hand and then brought it into a fist. I have to tell the others!
She turned and was about to run when a cool wind brushed by her and filled the room with its presense. Aeris froze when she felt the caress and slowly turned and her mouth fell open again.
With the shutters unlocked and curtains flowing with the breeze, the window was open.
* * *
It was very late at night and the bar was very lonely after the regulars had left. Only a few had remained, including a young, blonde, SOLDIER uniform-claded man.
He sat alone throughout the whole night even with all the commotion and action that occasionally happens in a bar. He was like the rock that stood in the river where the waves pushed and slapped against it, yet it stands still and uncaring just the same. Many finally lost interest in this newcomer very soon as he proved to be quite quiet and distant from everyone. Even the attractive hostesses became irritated with this handsome man and chose to ignore him since he ignored the nectar that was offered from the eager flowers.
"Hey....yo...." called Cloud groggily. "Give me *hic* another one...."
The bartender glanced at Cloud and shook his head. He reached over and grabbed another bottle and slided down the counter. Cloud caught it without looking up.
"You sure you wanna drink that much?" he called.
"Ya...whatever...." he popped open the bottle and starting filling his mug again like the countless times he did before.
"I've seen the likes of you," the bartender continued. "Drinkin' so much at one time. Always the same. Money, women, fights, more women. What's your problem?"
Cloud looked at him over the rim of his mug while drinking and did not answer.
"Women, I guess." The bartender laughed. "Always women. Ya know why? Money, they just gamble more. Fights, they go look for 'em. Women, they just get drunk then look for a new one. They get drunk to forget so they can start over. I hit it on that one, huh?"
"I wouldn't *hic* count on it," muttered Cloud as he paused to pour another drink.
"So what happened then?" asked a nearby listener.
Cloud finished off the mug before answering. "Never got the chance *hic* to tell her how much *hic* I loved her...."
"Pretty sad I guess," said the bartender. "Where is she now?"
"She's....*hic*.....she's...."
"Yea?"
"She's....she's DEAD!!!!!" Cloud trailed off into a howl and buried his head into his arms and cried loudly in sobs and gutters and hiccups.
"Aww, it's alright man!" exclaimed the bartender. "Just find a new one!"
"Nooo.....I can't do that....*hic* she's *hic* so...different from everyoneeeee......"
"There's always another better!"
Cloud stopped his cries and looked up from his arms and glared at the bartender. "Tifa is one in everything! Ain't no one better than her! NO ONE!" He grabbed the bottle and started chugging it down.
"Hey boy! Get it all down an' I'll give ya 100!" someone shouted.
Laughter. "I'll give ya 1000 if ya don't throw it up!" More laughter.
Heedless of the shouts and cheers, Cloud continued to allow the flow to liquid to continue like a river without an end. It was as though heat had risen into Cloud and burned into him. His body felt as though in flames and the cool liquid going down his throat seemed to rise from the depths to ignite his soul. The lights around him began to blur and the laughter droned away from his ears. He wanted to stop, and yet he didn't, for the cool liquid seemed to soothe his throat then fill his body with tremors of excitement. Sweat seemed to drench him like water that knew no limits. It lifted him, brought him to a new dimension, uncaring of what he left behind. Cloud ever so dimly heard the doors of the bar open.
"Cloud....." he heard a distant voice call. Still drinking, Cloud ignored that voice. He was much into the consumption of this new remedy that left his sanity into non-existence.
"Cloud!" cried Aeris, eyes widening at the young man who sat at the counter, holding a full bottle to his lips. His face was beyond a red coal that burned and even the water that fell like rain did not drench the fire. Laughter filled her ears as the men around Cloud cheered him on and offered money.
"Cloud!" Aeris cried again and hurried over to him. She reached for the bottle and tried to pry it from his hands as she gaped at the countless bottles on the counter. "Stop drinking! You've had too many already!"
From a distant, Cloud heard a woman's voice. He lifted his eyes groggily and then noted two arms trying to take his bottle.
"Ughhmmm!" said Cloud, bringing the bottle out of reach from Aeris and yet still drinking.
"You have to stop!"
The two arms appeared again. A sense of annoyance crossed Cloud's mind as the bottle nearly dropped. He wanted it; he didn't have to give it up. The arms appeared again. This time, he reacted.
Aeris jumped quickly when Cloud suddenly whipped out his arm and nearly swatted her across the face. She stepped back and gaped at him as he resumed to drink. Did he just try to hit me? she thought wildly. No, that can't be. Cloud would never hit me. He's just.....
Aeris' eyes trailed to the many bottles on the counter. He's just drunk.
Silently she stood and watched Cloud's throat in a rhymatic pace. It was not long before the last drop was gone and Cloud emitted a loud groan as he slammed the empty remedy onto the table.
"Give me...another...." he muttered, pushing the bottle away.
"Please....Cloud," started Aeris, advancing slowly. "I've been searching for you for a very long time. Everyone has been very worried as well. Please, let's go." She placed a hand on Cloud and hoped he would not strike her again.
Someone is touching me....thought Cloud. Who...Who is it? He turned his head then winced at the sudden storm that brewed in his head. He tilted to one side as one hand caught himself. My head...so painful...so tired...I want to go to sleep.....
"What's wrong, Cloud?" asked Aeris, catching him before he slipped off the seat.
"Nothin'...."
"Is there anything you want to do?"
The lights blinded him and his vision blurred. "I want to rest..." came a barely audible voice.
Aeris let out a breath of relief. "That's good, Cloud," she said. "Come on then. Everyone is very worried. Let's go." She reached over and slid her arm under Cloud's as she helped him up.
"Hey," said the bartender, coming over, "the bill." He stood there tapping his foot patiently.
"How...much...." muttered Cloud. His head tilted upward and to the side as he clumsily reached inside his pockets and fumbled for his money.
The bartender glanced at the bottles and counted mentally. "5600 gil," he finally answered.
How much did you drink? thought Aeris in amazement as Cloud started counting. He blinked and shook his head a few times then starting counting it one by one. An irritated sigh escaped Aeris as she reached over and took 6000 gil from Cloud's hand and handed it to the bartender.
"You may keep the change," said Aeris as she nearly dragged Cloud out the bar.
* * *
With beads of sweat and quick breaths, Aeris finally laid Cloud onto the bed. He landed face down and in an angle that one leg hung over the side. Aeris shook her head and lifted his leg as she turned Cloud with much effort. She pulled off his boots then pulled him by his shoulders until his head laid on the pillow. Looking at Cloud again, Aeris let out a breath of exasperation. Carefully she lifted Cloud halfway as she jerked the blanket from underneath him.
"Ughh...hmmm...." groaned Cloud as Aeris covered him with the blanket. She tucked him in carefully before sitting herself on a chair beside the bed.
"Phew!" she breathed as she wiped her forehead. "Cloud packed quite a lot at the bar. I wonder how much he did drink." She fixed her eyes on the groaning figure and shook her head. "He should have known better to have drank this much. I would not be very surprised if he will be stuck in bed for days. But then again, it would be good for him to rest, one way or another." Her voice fell silent as Cloud began to quiet down.
* * *
It's hot...
Where am I....?
It's so hot....I have to get out of here....
"Hurry! Check that house!"
What?
"Hey! You alive?!"
He opened his eyes slowly and stared up at buildings in flames.
"HEY! Get up and help!" shouted the man again.
Cloud carefully rose and stood as flames licked at his sides.
Where....am I? I'm in...
....Nibelhiem?
A loud crack jerked him out of his thoughts and drew his attention to a house falling apart in flames and smoke. That house...So familiar....Wait, that's my....Cloud's face fell into horror.
"Mother!" he shouted and leaped into a fast sprint. Cinders and sparks flew from every direction but all Cloud noticed was the burning house that he had spent his childhood in.
"Mother!" He kicked the door in and coughed at the smoke that rose like fog that refuses to be cut. "Mother!" He stumbled over a fallen object as he called and coughed. "Where are you?"
Then he saw her.
She was lying face down, one arm out-stretched as though she was reaching for Cloud. She laid very still even without choking from the smoke, nor did she move to take a breath at all.
Cloud stood for a moment in shock. "Mo...ther...?" He took a step, and a sudden crack above him caught his attention.
He looked up and saw the broken roof smoted in flames and splinters crash down upon him.
Cloud's eyes dilated in fear as he covered his head and felt himself trip. No, don't let this happen! he thought wildly as he felt himself fall toward the floor. This can't be happening! This can't be happening-
He fell flat onto soft grass.
Slowly he brought his arms from his head and slowly looked up. He was in a field of grass and in the distant was a small town.
Cloud pressed his hands into the ground as he lifted himself quickly. "That's....Nibelhiem," he said in disbelief.
A loud growl caught his attention and Cloud spun around immediately. His mouth dropped and he pushed himself back with his arms and looked with complete disbelief.
"I....you.....how can....I killed you!" he managed to stammered.
The white Nibelhiem monster sneered and advanced clumsily. Cloud drew himself further back and tried to run when he found his leg to be in pain. How did I...thought Cloud, but was soon interrupted when the monster lifted a claw. Without thinking, Cloud lifted his hands to try to block the attack, when he found his hands covered in blood.
Blood....Cloud thought. He turned his palms over and stared at the thick redness that streaked through his hands. When did I.....
He never finished his thought when the claw suddenly slashed through him. All Cloud remembered was a cold steel that left his body freezing and the ground was gone beneath him.
He was falling.
He crashed into the water with a huge splash and felt himself sink.
The cold water brought Cloud to open his eyes and take notice of his surrounding. His eyes widened and his arms began to flail wildly at his sides. I can't breathe! Cloud thought as fear crawled into his consciencness.
Forget this....What's going on....Where am I...What's happening.....Cloud stopped and allowed himself to slowly drift through the water as thoughts drifted through his mind. His eyes closed as he waited for the cold darkness to take him. What's happening to me....Where am I.....How did this happen.....I want to go...I want to leave....He opened his eyes.
And saw her.
His heart froze along with his soul.
Tifa.....
She floated alone and freely, her arms holding her quiet tomb. Her face was content like white snow that took the sunlight without question. She seemed to be laying very still, and only her flowing hair noted the soft movements. A sudden wave passed through and Tifa's right arm followed it and lifted up toward Cloud. It extended and reached like a sapling eagerly taking droplets of rain.
Tifa....
Cloud extended his arm and reached out for Tifa. I won't leave you alone...thought Cloud, feeling happiness surge through him. I'll be with you...Just believe in me...I'll be joining you very soon....
He reached and almost touched her fingers, when a darkness emitted around her arm. Suprised, Cloud stopped and stared. The darkness slowly grew and soon engulfed Tifa as it began to pull her away from the startled young man.
"No!" shouted Cloud. He struggled to move forward when he felt himself being pulled back as well. "No! Let go of me!" He thrashed wildly and pulled at the unseen force. It seemed hopeless and all Cloud could do was watch with desperate eyes as Tifa drifted farther with one arm out-reached toward him.
Cloud reached out as well as the water around his face mingled with salt. "Tifaaaa...!!!!" he shouted. "Don't go! Don't leave meeee.....!!!!"
All he remembered was darkness.
* * *
"Uhhh....where am I....uhhh.....no...." mumbled Cloud.
Aeris turned and looked at the young man in bed. He's having a nightmare, she thought and rose.
He looks so troubled...Aeris carefully brushed back a few strands of his hair.
"Poor guy..." she whispered.
"I...uh....no...don't go....I...." Cloud continued to mumble. "Don't.....no...." Cloud suddenly thrashed and surprised Aeris to jump.
"Cloud?" She placed a hand onto his shoulder. "You're having a bad dream."
"Uhhh.....don't...noooo........DON'T LEAVE ME!" he shouted as he jerked up from the bed and startled Aeris that she seated back onto the chair and nearly fell off. She caught herself quickly before turning to observe the panting man.
"Are you alright?" she asked before getting up to rest her hands on his shoulders and turned Cloud to face her.
"You're drenched!" exclaimed Aeris. "Wait here, I'll go get a towel for you."
She rose and barely took a step when Cloud suddenly whipped out his hand and grabbed Aeris by her arm.
"No...." he said in a near whimper, "don't go....please...I have something to tell you...."
"Cloud...." said Aeris uncertainly and loosened her arm, "you should rest. Tell me when you're feeling better." She turned to leave again when Cloud grabbed her arm again. She opened her mouth to protest when Cloud suddenly pulled her close and wrapped his arms around her waist and rested his head on her stomach.
"Don't leave me," said Cloud in a frantic voice.
"Cloud....."
"I-I don't know how I should say this...but you can't leave me! I want you to be with me." He looked up at Aeris with tears and earnest in his eyes. "You understand, right? I don't want you to leave me. I want you to be by my side forever!"
Aeris watched unmoving and mouth slightly open. "Cloud..." she finally managed. "What...what are you saying?"
Cloud shook his head furiously. "I can't live my live without you! You....you are the reason why I live. I don't ever want you to leave me!"
His arms tightened around her as small sobs were audible. Aeris looked into the blue eyes and saw only truth that stained the mako streaks. I....thought Aeris as tears slowly crept up. Her arms encircled Cloud and held him close.
"I won't leave you..." she whispered as she wiped away the tears on Cloud's face. His hair was in the way and she gently brushed it away and trailed her fingers through his hair.
"I will always make you happy! I promise to forever care for you! I...I promise to always love you!" Cloud buried his face into Aeris' dress and sobbed loudly.
"I understand, Cloud," said Aeris, sighing quietly. "I feel the same way..."
"I will always love you..." Cloud sobbed again. "That's why....that's why you can't leave me! Don't leave me! Don't leave me, Tifa!"
Aeris froze; her hand stiffened within the golden strands. Her breath cut short and her heart skipped a few beats. There wasn't a sound for a long time as Aeris held onto Cloud.
"Ti......fa......??" she finally whispered.
"You do understand my love for you, right Tifa?" asked Cloud, looking up at Aeris again. "No one can ever come between us. Especially Aeris. She's only a sister to me....you understand, right?"
Aeris closed her eyes from the mako streaks. "Yes....I understand..." She stepped back without saying another word, surprising Cloud to look up.
"Tifa, wait! Where are you going?" cried Cloud, panic rising in his throat.
"I....need to get a towel for you," answered Aeris, loosening Cloud's grip.
"No, wait...." Cloud struggled to stand, but his face suddenly twisted into streaks of pain and he fell back onto the bed. "My head...it hurts so much..."
Aeris sighed and walked toward the stairway. She was about to leave when Cloud called out again.
"Tifa, you'll be back right?"
Pause. "Yes, I'll be back, Cloud."
There was sigh of relief. "I'm glad to hear that. I don't want you to be gone again."
"That's right..."
"Tifa?"
".....Yes?"
"I love you."
"...................I know"
* * *
A/N: I didn't really feel too much compassion for Aeris, but it could be different for everyone else. =) It did get a little sad I guess. I'll try to update more, so keep reading! ^_^ Please review!