Chapter Summary:
Aerith visits Elmyra. Sephiroth heals from his greatest mistake.
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13k words!? Are these chapters getting like ridiculously long all of a sudden?? Like no wonder they take me so many days to get out, geez.
Hopefully it doesn't bother anyone, I admit I do love a long, in this case steamy chapter but it can get a bit tiresome if it's boring or just plain uninteresting. So if you all would prefer smaller, quicker updates or longer, slower updates let me know.
Lots of stuff going on this chapter, so prepare yourself haha jk!
Enjoy and happy reading!!
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"So, I know how it went with Shinra but how did it go with Sephiroth?" Tifa asked when Cloud and her were alone. Having rented a room for the night, Tifa struggled with herself on whether to ask such a personal question. Though her and Cloud had a strong connection, they weren't exactly on the same wavelength. Especially to one silver-haired enemy...well ex-enemy.
Tifa still felt bad, though Sephiroth wasn't mad at her for losing Aerith, didn't mean she felt any less about her recklessness. Aerith's frustration was to be expected. Tifa could come up with many reasons as to why she up and left. Clearly and undoubtedly she didn't make her reasoning to her questions forward enough. After thinking about it for the last hour, she realized it probably looked like she had suddenly grown unacceptable to her relationship with Sephiroth. Which was far from true.
The last thing Aerith needed was more hate about a choice she chose. She is just a girl in love and her and Cloud were holding her down to the joy that brought her. The emotion was new and euphoric and their rejection to the one that brings her such was anything but gratifying.
Tifa was trying. She just needed a better grasp of understanding, to see through Aerith's eyes as she had suggested. Yet even that was proving far more difficult than she could've imagined. If she did find some glimmer of hope that Sephiroth will warm up, as he slowly is, then how would that look to Cloud? She couldn't hurt him, not again, and especially not in a way towards his nemesis.
Cloud sighed heavily, possibly about as exhausted and tired as she. He beckons her closer. Tifa doesn't hesitate, getting comfortable within the crook of his shoulder. "Okay I guess. I followed your advice and finally mustered up the strength to be honest about my feelings. He practically asked for it, really. Although, as I sit here thinking. I wonder if it was right. If whether I should've kept my secrets about them quiet."
"Why do you say that? It must have at least went smoothly as you are still here in one piece."
"I wouldn't go that far. He did threaten me-"
"-What!" Tifa interrupts, pushing herself up. She stares hard into his blue mako-infused eyes. Cloud follows her action, crossing his legs beneath him. "It's okay, Teef I deserved it, I overstepped. I was so angry the words slipped out. It's not like I meant them though. Despite hating him I don't think even I'd resort to the hell of Hojo."
"Oh, no Cloud, what did you say? You must know Hojo is a very bad mention especially around Sephiroth. That man has done so many horrible things to all three of you. What were you thinking?"
"That's just it, I wasn't. I only realized such after I said it and he got in my face, threatening to kill me for speaking ill of Aerith."
"Aerith? Don't tell me you dragged her into it too?"
Cloud sighs and Tifa can see the shame in his eyes. She reaches for his hands, bringing them to her lips affectionately. "I don't love you any less, Cloud but you need to learn to control your emotions better. Your rage towards Sephiroth isn't just effecting him but you're unconsciously pulling Aerith with it and that's unacceptable."
"I know, I regretted it the moment I said it. I ended the conversation before I dug myself into a deeper hole. Yet the more I observed his behavior the more conflicted I'd get. Oh, Tifa Aerith threw us in a whirlpool of confusion that I can't cope completely. I honestly want to hate her...but I can't."
"What do you mean? Talk to me Cloud...I want to hear your honesty on this. I won't ever judge you. I'm always here to lend my ear."
Cloud looks at her so openly and Tifa can see him bearing his soul to her. "I beyond all doubt hate Sephiroth...that will never change and yet...what he says, unfortunately bears fruit. He truly is trying for Aerith, for us...When he told me he loved Aerith I got so mad, but I began to wonder if I was mad at him or at myself?"
Tifa's heart suddenly clenched and she felt her breath shudder within her lungs. She knew Cloud felt something for Aerith. Perhaps he wasn't conscious of it but Tifa knew. She truly believed he'd choose that sweet flower girl over her but against all unbelievable odds he chose her. Yet now, hearing this she wonders if he picked her because she was easier. Tifa fights the tears that scorch her throat.
Cloud notices the sheen of tears in her eyes and he immediately shakes his head, cupping her cheeks. "That's not what I mean, gods I'm stupid I shouldn't have worded it like that. I'm sorry. I love only you Tifa, I swear on my living breath that Aerith means nothing to me. Not then and certainly not now. I wouldn't ever want his sloppy seconds."
"That's a horrible thing to say Cloud. Especially as you're not only degrading Sephiroth but Aerith as well." Tifa forces out through a constricted throat.
"Shit sorry. But I am not lying on both fronts. I will only ever love you as he will her. It's like what he said our love, mine and his are one in the same."
Tifa moves into the carressing of his thumbs. "Sephiroth said that?"
Cloud softens, his eyes tender. "He did, he told me he loves Aerith as much as I do you." Tifa can't seem to find the words to express the joy it was to hear that.
She can't comprehend why she was so worried. Why she will always be jealous of the flower girl. Aerith was sweet, caring, gentle, beautiful, strong. She could've easily gotten any guy yet she chose the least one to ever be considered available. Their displays of affection only prove that Aerith sees no one but Sephiroth and that should be enough reassurance to help Tifa with the confidence that she'll never lose Cloud to her.
"I'll rephrase. I began to wonder if its my hate, if this darkness in my heart is the same that brought him to the place he was. What if I become like him? What if I turn out to be the new enemy because my spite for him will only grow per interaction? I hate myself for these thoughts but what if they are honest? Oh Teef, I want to move on more than anything, to start over without the ghost of my past holding me down but I can't. Perhaps it's Jenova's cells, or Sephiroth's that force my empathy away but I do desire the will to forget. I'm much like Sephiroth was and refuse to remain in the shadow of Nibelheim all my life. Except that's exactly what I'm doing everytime I see him, every word that slides off his tongue is just that pitiful reminder of Nibelheim and his influence."
"Cloud you're throwing this way out of proportion. You don't have to just get up and suddenly forget...to forgive. We have months, years, our entire lifetime for that. Right now all I ask of you is to put aside this negativity you feel in your heart and open your eyes to the new future. Don't see Sephiroth, or Aerith, or Shinra, see the world for what it is, see me...our future together with our friends and family, with all the people we saved by rebuilding Sector 7."
She holds his hands in her own, bringing one to rest plam down over his beating heart. "We can be happy even if we have doubts. Like I said Aerith and Sephiroth's relationship will not end because we want it too, my friendship with her either. Slowly ever gently, piece by piece find that sympathetic light within yourself to accept that like I have. You don't have to like him, or get him, or accept his role in our lives just be supportive even if you don't fully comprehend. In time that hate you feel here will dissipate and only then can you begin onto the next step in your acceptance."
"It's alot harder than you'd think Tifa but you're right, you've always been right. I hate admiting it and will only ever to you but Sephiroth is genuine. I don't like to hear his words of love because it just further angers me and yet he truly unmistakably loves Aerith. I cannot fathom how or why...okay maybe I can see why, but not how. Not with what he is, with what he's done makes him a monster, one so horrible that he shouldn't be able to even share in the emotion. And yet he does."
"Did you ever think that that's why he feels love?" Tifa catches his stammers. She smiles, continuing. "Why the reason he can feel this unapproachable emotion is, well because he isn't a monster...maybe once, before he was given Aerith's love, but not anymore."
"Is it wrong of me to say I'd rather not see it that way? I truly hate him and if I start seeing him as this...normal person will that change my perspective? Will that change the person I grew up to be? It's what scares me most because I don't want to change. This person I am now is who I will always be, always want to be."
Tifa smiles so tenderly. "Sephiroth, me, Aerith...no one can change you Cloud...only you can do that. If you really despise him then that's your choice, I'll love you regardless. Course it won't make our lives any easier that's for sure but it'll be boring without some drama." She chuckles lightly.
"I promise I will be at your side, helping you through it because I don't think I can forgive him either, I can see him as a person, as the love of Aerith's life, as the father of her children, but my heart might never heal from his actions. I don't have Aerith's all seeing eye she's received from the planet, I don't have her pure, loving heart to forgive and I realized that's okay because that's not me. That's her. We all forgive in our own way, this is mine."
"You truly are a amazing Tifa..." Cloud compliments and Tifa meets his forward lips.
"No more, please Cloud...let us run towards our future and leave the past behind us once and for all. Only then will we be happy to live this life they've gifted us." Cloud kisses her jaw, "We can find a way to make this work...together...we can learn to harmonize with them..."
"No more talk of Sephiroth and Aerith, for now they don't exist." He groans hotly in her ear. She agrees with a nod, meeting his lips as they captured hers. Tifa moans, forgetting what all she means to say as Cloud diverted her attention elsewhere.
...
"Stop please, I'm..." Zack immediately cuts Aerith off for the tenth time since she's started. She pouts, hands on her hips. She understood the hesitation but she was beginning to lose her patience the more he stops and blames her. She was welcome to it but not when it wasn't directed towards her anymore.
"Aerith, I honestly don't peg you for a tramp." Aerith instantly gaped at that and he holds his hands out towards her, continuing. "There's no reason to lie if he took advantage of you. I won't try to kill him or anything."
"Zack! Oh my God! Have you even heard anything I said? If anyone was taken advantage of it was him! I literally wanted to jump his bones every damn time I seen him, not because he was fucking hot or I was lustful but because I wanted him. Every blissful encounter was initiated by my aggressive behavior! I craved for his affection, I wanted to keep him close because I basked in the flutter of guilty pleasure he brought to my heart. Never had I felt so alive in his presence. If that makes me a tramp then fine but don't go speaking such vile when I'm still telling my side of the story."
The shock on Zack's face was oddly rewarding. Aerith huffs, she was frustrated and tired, the last thing she wanted was more blantant criticism. Especially from the man who doesn't know her. He knew her teenage self, that once pure and innocent girl. However, Aerith wasn't that girl anymore. She's aged into this hard strong woman who's seen her fair share of demons.
"Sorry, you're right. I'm just not used to this grown up version of you I guess. I don't recognize the person in front of me and that just scares me because we knew so much about each other, yet now I feel like I don't know you at all."
"Yeah well get used to it because I outgrew that shy timid girl you once knew. In both universes I've changed from her. And if I were honest with myself I prefer this person I've become. She is strong and confident and knows what she wants. Which at the time, now and then...was Sephiroth."
Aerith sighs, noticing the glimpse of pain in his blue eyes and she settles the raging emotions within her. Now wasn't the time to be blinded by her pregnancy flare-ups.
She continues unwavered, telling of the events from after her first encounters with Sephiroth. She kept most of the details of their intimacy mild. She already expressed how she felt about them, she didn't want to further insult the Soldier anymore than she had already.
She tells him of the decline of Gaia, of the Geostigma, of Meteor. She tells it as if she were foretelling a book...the book of life she supposed. She told him of Sephiroth's heroic actions of confronting his past, of his resolve to protect the planet by summoning Meteor, of being there while she went through her Geostigma. Not once does he interrupt her and she's so very grateful.
She goes on to express how proud she was when he stood up to Cloud, standing his ground on their relationship, of their fights and how everytime he held back for her. She smiles as she tells him of how he protected her till the very end when Meteor finally killed her. Of how he inwardly cried as she died again by the Savior, her child.
Aerith left nothing out, she awarded Zack the beautiful details of his character growth, of how he changed for her, for the planet. That the man in Nibelheim seven years ago was not the same man he knew. That he too had evolved from the image everyone saw him as. Never again will he be that person. It was only a matter of time before everyone saw that.
When she finishes she catches the look on Zack's face. Disturbingly it was unreadable, Aerith couldn't tell if he was lost or if he actually began to see the light of the subject. She realizes she shouldn't care, not when her opinion was the only one that mattered. The only reason she goes through this is because she wants her friends to understand...to accept him.
With fingers fidgeting in front of her she eagerly waits for his reaction, her chest tight in preparation to the rejection she's bound to get. Why would now be any different than anyone else's views? Rejection was all she's gotten since announcing her involvement with the man. Tifa being the only exception.
"I'm really trying to grasp it all but it just doesn't sound...I don't know, what's the word? Plausible?? From what I'm understanding the sole reason we're here now, upon a new planet identical to the last is because you couldn't close your legs long enough in his company and was impregnated by your enemy?"
"Zack! Fuck, dude that's just..." Cissnei speaks for Aerith, her cheeks flushed in either embarrassment or frustration. Aerith deduced both. She furrows her brows opening her mouth to retorted such blunt disgust but another speaks for her.
"You have some balls speaking so crudely to her you know." Aerith's heart flutters, hastily she turns toward Sephiroth's voice, immediately feeling the weight of his hand on her shoulder. She smiles so brightly up at him. He remains beside her, staring deeply at the two before him.
"Not if it's true though. She admittedly fucked you whenever, wherever she could, resulting in her pregnancy. This relationship she is so hell-bent on defending is clearly lust. Honestly, I don't see the appeal of anyone ever willingly being aggressive towards you. I don't even think your fan club would touch you with a ten foot pole after what you did to Nibelheim. Yet here is Aerith, in love...pregnant. How convenient I'd say."
Aerith couldn't believe out of everything she had just told him, that was what he understood. She reaches a hand up to Sephiroth's upon her shoulder, eyes pleading he get through to him because clearly she had failed.
"Don't push your luck, Zack. Especially now." Sephiroth forced out smoothly, calmly. Yet the strength of his hand told he was everythingbut on the inside.
"Aerith getting pregnant had nothing to do with how many times we found in each other's embrace. The odds of it happening were nearly impossible with our cursed bloodlines but the planet had rewarded her this gift of life for her untainted views of loving me...forgiving me. The man who destroyed her life. Her enemy, her killer, her destroyer. It was never lust for us, Zack but love. Is it so bad for her to be given something pristine, something she rightfully deserved after going her whole life thinking she'll never achieve it? Certainly not with you, or Cloud or any disgusting human that dared force themselves on her."
"No," Zack murmurs through gritted teeth, possibly fighting saying more to Sephiroth's clear disapproval of him ever fucking her. "But did you ever think to ask if she wanted this baby? If she wanted to have another evil creature like you roaming around? If you?"
Sephiroth gives a curt shake of his head. "That's irrelevant and you know it. If you knew Aerith like I do then you'd already know she will undoubtedly love this child despite it being unplanned."
"Okay then but what about you? You're not very sociable, let alone empathetic how will that reflect on them as they grow up? Wouldn't you think they'd want a father that they would actually want to be around? Not this cold, guarded, one emotion man they're bound to get?"
"I can learn like any parent does. That fact that you are intent on only asking such ridiculous questions just proves to me that you hope that Aerith will leave because I wouldn't be able to handle the situation of parenthood. I learned how to love Aerith, didn't I? How is my child going to be any different? If anything I will be even further bonded towards her, I'd do anything and everything to make sure Aeris'...no any of our children's childhoods grow up loved and happy. Never will they experience the despair I was given."
"I trust Aerith to make sure that doesn't happen, but not you. Frankly that's all I'm going to say on the matter."
"You and Cloud should join a fan club as you both are so fucking similar. I ask for so little. Just accept Aerith for who she is, for the woman she's become. I myself could careless if you hate me, don't trust me, it's all meaningless because I don't want your approval. We were friends once and though I don't see why we couldn't again. I honestly won't hold hope. It's not like I need it? Not when I have everything I could ask for."
Sephiroth crosses his arms, leaning his weight on his left. "With that said go on your way. There's nothing more that needs to be heard or said. Aerith will never return to you, she is mine and if you think otherwise after all that then you are a fool."
"It's stuff like that that makes people not like you Sephiroth."
"I don't aim for them to like me, I lived that life already and it brought me just as much misery and loneliness as the stain of my upbringing. I was once a hero, a champion, the most recognized face of Shinra and I felt nothing. I'd gladly revoke that title just to have the one I have now. The love of Aerith's life. She brought me more joy and meaning to the emptiness of my life than anything. More than Genesis or Angeal ever could, more than achieving godhood, or even finding out about my biological parents. She is the light of my life and you will not deem to take that away."
"You've changed, Sephiroth. As I watch you right now, observe your words, though rough and sharp, I too don't recognize you."
"That's the growth Aerith spoke of. That person in Nibelheim seven years ago, he's dead. I am just Sephiroth. A human that just wants to live the life his old shell was denied for so long. I will atone for my sins with Aerith by my side, healing but never forgetting."
"I need to think, to absorb all this information...please just let me be until I do."
"Not here." Zack slides his gaze towards Aerith. "Please, this is my church, my sanctuary, you are welcome here anytime but not right now. Not until you come to a decision. So until you do, don't come back here. I'm being as nice as I can about this, so I beg of you, don't argue."
Zack smiles weaky. "No, you're right, I shouldn't have claimed it as though it were mine. You aren't anymore...I'm sorry, I will return when I'm ready to give you my honest answer. Until then, this is goodbye."
Zack passes the two without further hesitation and Aerith let's out a breath she didn't realize she was holding. Perhaps she wasn't thinking it'll be that easy. Maybe she thought he'd fight and claw until he broke her down enough to either result in her leave or let him stay.
She's so relieved neither came true.
When Aerith hears the doors shut behind her she meets Cissnei's brown eyes. "I really am so sorry, Aerith. I never realized just how complicated your life had become. What you've lived through. I know my apologies don't mean anything but its all I can hope to give for how I treated you. As for Zack, well he'll come around, from what I've heard you're genuine, the path that led you here wasn't malicious or coerced. If anything it's oddly beautiful. I'm happy for you, Aerith. From the bottom of my heart. I hope you can forgive me for everything." She visibly swallows. "For slapping you."
Sephiroth acts like he wants to speak but Aerith moves forward, her hand on his bicep. She smiles. "Thank you, Cissnei, please take care of him. He may not want it but he needs your support. I'll be waiting for both of your returns, I have faith we can find that friendship we had before everything turned from bad to worse. Even with you Cissnei."
The girl smiles weakly, following Zack's retreat.
Sephiroth immediately embraces Aerith when the doors close and Aerith returns it entirely. Inhaling his wonderful scent. She presses her cheek to his chest. "Thank you." She whispers, holding him tighter, voice a mere murmur. "I'm so glad you were here with me, I don't think I could've done this alone."
"No, you handled it perfectly, your determination is so powerful you could've gotten through to anyone. Zack will come around, he may be like Cloud but his heart is much softer. Even before he was never one to hold grudges."
Aerith kisses him so easily when he slides away from her, his lips greeting hers without hesitation. "That girl, she hit you?" Aerith smiles against them. "Shhh that's not important, besides I had it coming. Karma for my actions upon Zack."
Sephiroth reaches up, cupping her cheeks in his large hands. "It's unacceptable, you are too gentle to be given such hateful behavior."
Aerith smiles wide, drowning in the beauty of his concerned eyes. "Sit with me?" She asks, changing the subject and he lets out a disbelieving breath, perhaps floored that she'd completely disregard Cissnei's rash actions.
He flawlessly recovers, smiling softly. "Of course."
Aerith grabs his hand on her face and leads him to her flowers. She leans down, greeting them with a tender voice. She sits on her knees and Sephiroth joins her. "Why do they grow just here?"
She reaches forward, gentle fingers stroking a yellow petal. "This place is sacred, it's the only building left standing after the plate fell. I imagine that it's meant to be here. Perhaps for me. For these flowers. I don't know honestly. I've never really questioned it. Now, the reason these flowers grow here is cause there's a stream beneath the soil that is rich in mako that keeps them well nutrient. Of course my bond to the Ancients might help somewhat too."
She glances over towards him. "White ones have started sprouting. See..." She reaches for his hand and guides it to the white lilium. Sephiroth touches the white petal with great gentleness. "White usually symbolizes grief but it also could rebirth and commitment." She looks so beautiful at them, of Sephiroth's soft touch.
Aerith meets his hand, lacing their fingers together, pulling his attention away. She reaches up with the other and cups his cheek, meeting his green eyes.
Aerith smiles brightly. "Perhaps they've grown from our sacrifice, of the love I feel for you, pure and radiant. Maybe Gaia sent me this message that despite her demise the new planet remembers. That she accepts our relationship." She sighs, glancing towards the lilies. "Who knows, right? Maybe with such powerful lifeblood the stream is strong enough to grow more than one color. Regardless of these facts, aren't they beautiful?"
Sephiroth speaks the first thing that comes to mind. "Not nearly as much as you are." He leans forward, kissing her gingerly. She sighs contently, wrapping her arms around his neck, a much needed feat after the day she's endured.
He pulls her closer, into his lap and she only moans loudler, snug exactly where she needs to be. Surrounded by him. Soon his kisses grew deeper, his tongue driving her seemingly crazy, head fuzzy, breath heavy. She gasps realizing how incredibly turned on she was but as much as she was willing to give herself to him right now, there was still something she needed to do.
When his mouth moves from hers she forces her words through the incoming euphoric haze. "Wait..." She whispered breathless and Sephiroth does immediately. He apologizes and Aerith shakes her head. "No, I want to, gods I do but not yet. I still have a errand I must fulfill. I want to see my mom. I'm sure she's still awake, please Sephiroth will you take me to her?"
"You don't even have to ask, Aerith. I promised I would." He presses one last kiss to her lips, before sliding away from her. She stands along with him, making haste to the door. She pushes it open and by the look of the darkening of the sky above it was well past the evening. Elmyra usually stayed up in case of her late returns, she hopes today was one of those times.
"Ready?" Sephiroth asks behind her and she nods determinedly. He bends down and lifts her into his arms. She curls into his strong hold, hand resting on his chest. She feels the power radiating from his body and takes notice to the black of his wing behind him.
Only then does she realize she hasn't seen it physically since that time in the Ancient City. During his fight with Jenova he had unleashed that dormant power but it wasn't nearly anything like this.
Aerith can tell the difference in his strength by just his grip on her. She knew it firsthand from their battle upon the highway. Though its a bitter memory, she finds herself cherishing it. Every stolen moment they shared good or bad will be welcomed into her heart, willingly and wholly.
Those times, though they weren't where they are now, will always be wonderful views of him. And every one is beautiful in their own right.
As he holds her closer to his body she wondered if he was holding back then like he was now. It was unlikely but he also didn't want to kill them so it's possible. Nevertheless the answer remains unproven.
Aerith braces herself, wrapping her arms back around him. Within unimaginable seconds he takes to the sky, his feet light as they land on the metal surfaces below him.
Like this, in his truest form he carried himself with so much finesse and grace, he probably didn't even care to know how beautiful he was and she remedies that with a soft spoken voice. "I know I've told you so many times and don't plan to stop anytime soon but I love you so much, Sephiroth, equally like this in your god proven form you consider most ugly."
Sephiroth stops, glancing down at her. "I envy your views, Aerith, truly I do but I don't entirely hate the idea that someone...that you find not only my existence favorable, but also the part of me that is disgustingly inhumane. I will never consider that wing beautiful, despite it being a angels, because I know the truth that I am anything but."
Aerith smiles at his words, "But you are, Sephiroth, you're my guardian angel. How many times have you protected me? How many more you will? Though you don't believe yourself this higher being, you will always be in my eyes. I see you for who and what you are and I find him so very breathtakingly ethereal."
Sephiroth scoffs gently, a small smile itching to rise onto his lips. "I can say I've never considered myself such. I don't dislike it honestly, perhaps in due time I will come to accept that part of myself that holds such a rewarding title to you."
"That's okay because I'll be here to remind you, until then I will be the eyes you are blinded behind." Sephiroth doesn't say anything to that but she knew he acknowledged it.
Back on track he moves forward and she guides him towards her once home. He moves quick and confident, following her instructions effortlessly. When he stops at the top of the rocky ridge, looking down into the home of Elmyra she catches the stunned look on his face.
Aerith giggles, with a wide grin she states a matter of fact. "You seem surprised." She teases and Sephiroth just stares, mouth slightly agape at the sight. "How is this possible? I've never seen so many in one area."
"A lot of hard work and dedication, I spent many long hours on this garden, taking back cuttings from the church and planting them here. At first I didn't think the soil would take but slowly beyond even my abilities they began growing here. I'm sure that waterfall is the same that reaches my church and was the sole reason I was able to recreate that flowerbed here."
"No." Sephiroth abrutly disagrees. "I have no doubt they grew for you. Mako water may be a added purpose but it was you...that green soul of the planet you reside inside you that brought them to obey your plea. There's no other reason than that."
She snuggles closer to him. "Thank you, Sephiroth, I...It means so much to hear that but I'm not the planet's daughter anymore. I'm actually surprised they're still flourishing."
"You will always be her daughter, Aerith. Just because Gaia died doesn't mean you've been revoked that title. In my heart, in Minevra's and our daughter's, you will always have a strong bond to the planet. You may not be able to talk to her since her rebirth but I'm sure she hears you."
There's tears in her eyes and Aerith hastily rids them. He's right, though she may not have that link she shared with Gaia doesn't necessarily make her nothing to Minevra. She will always be the mother of her guardian and that alone is far more important than the once protector of her sister.
Aerith opens her mouth to retort but there's a sudden voice that breaks through them. She reconizes it instantly and it chills her blood. She whispered in fear. "Tseng..." Sephiroth follows her line of sight, the black-haired Turk leaving Elmyra's home. "Why would he be here? You don't think they realized Marlene's a Ancient do you?" Sephiroth honestly doesn't know, he finds himself focusing on their words.
"Again, I truly am sorry for your loss..."
There's a another voice behind the door, matured, worn. She carried the weight of her worries in her tone. "My daughter is not dead, I know it in my heart. Please, don't come back here again. Your company has done enough damage to my family."
There's a solemn look on the man's face and he bows his head at her. "As you wish. Take care Elmyra."
Sephiroth watches as the head Turk leaves, oblivious to their presence above. "It's okay, Marlene is still safe. Tseng must've just gotten word of your death I informed Shinra earlier. From what I could gather, he was here to give his condolences of such news to your mother."
Aerith looks up at him. "You actually told them I was dead?" She realized she never even got the chance to ask how his trip to that dreaded place went. This sudden information piqued her interests.
He confirmed with a nod. "I did, I went on and told them that it was I that made the killing blow. That your sacrifice was required to be given this second chance they were ungratefully taking for granted. In truth I merely gave them the honesty of our past life."
Aerith felt something try to surface in her heart but it doesn't reach her. She knew the truth, she understood completely why he choose such a scenario...though it may be a lie in this world, it wasn't in their hearts, not after the knowledge they shared of their parallels. Her death by his hands will always remain deeply tucked into their memories despite the predicament they were in currently. Except it doesn't hurt, not after he had healed her of it.
"Did they believe it?"
"Must have, since Tseng is here. However, Hojo doesn't."
Aerith's eyes widened and she immediately cowered at that name. So it's like she thought, he did have a run in with the man while he was there. She eagerly seeks his comfort and Sephiroth gives it without hesitation. "I suspected as much, I'd be worried if he hadn't. Hojo will not take your death to heart until he sees for himself, until he can physically force you into his cruel experiments. He already mentioned how he had Ifalna, your body will not be spared...dead or alive."
Aerith felt so disgusted. She knew Hojo was sick but not nearly to the extent Sephiroth did. During her brief time in his lab, he made his motives clear, his advances on what he'd love to do to her known. It disturbed her then as it did now. "I promise you Aerith. I will never let him hurt you again."
"I know you won't. I trust you with my life."
With the Turk gone completely, Sephiroth jumps down, mindful to the flowers. When he felt comfortable enough he puts Aerith down. She wastes no time and quickly makes her way through the lilies, her feet seemingly knowing where to step as to not hurt them. He mimics her strides, drawn to her more than the plants below.
When she reaches the door she lifts her hand. However, just as she's about to knock something stops her. Her thoughts he realized. He knows that hesitation all too well.
Aerith stares at the door, is this truly the right thing? Would making herself known be a mistake? Elmyra, though having been told she has passed, knew better, thanks to her message from Marlene. Perhaps that's enough. She doesn't need the stress of her return, of once again worrying if she'll get taken away, of having to look over her shoulder non-stop in case of Turks.
Aerith drops her hand and begins to turn away. Sephiroth stops her. "Don't falter now, Aerith. I know you think her believing you are dead is best, but you're wrong. Elmyra will only hurt worse, you will hurt. If you leave now after being so close, you will come to regret it. Don't fight your worries, power through them, see the outcome of your actions, not the present. Clearly she knows you're still out there, ease her mind."
She opens her mouth but Sephiroth silences them with a finger. "Don't tell me, tell her..." She looks up at him with beautiful emerald eyes and a spark of fire ignites them. She nods, turning back.
With a risen arm she knocks.
There's a shuffle and the woman inside huffs, frustrated. "I thought I told you not to come back?"
The door opens with a hard swing and for a split second time seems to stop. Elmyra gasps and Aerith smiles. "Hi, mom, I'm back." Her voice was thin, swallowed by her oncoming emotions. The older woman immediately hugs her daughter. "I knew you weren't dead, Marlene gave me your message, I'm so happy you're home."
"I'm sorry it took me so long to return, saving the world and all, you know." She chuckles weakly. "I have so much to tell you."
Elmyra pulls away, hands on her cheeks. She takes in the slight difference in her face. If Sephiroth had to guess she saw the worries that cloud her features, of just how much the weight of the world weighed her down. Of course, perhaps that's just what he sees, for all he knew she could just see her daughter grown from the many months she'd been away. "Gods, why are we still out here, come in I'll put some tea on and you can tell me all about it."
Elmyra turns quickly, returning to her home and Aerith follows. She looks back towards Sephiroth and beckons him to join. He does reluctantly. He had the urge to stay outside as he knew once she realizes who he was she'll undoubtedly kick him out.
"Mom, I brought someone with me..."
"Oh, is it that blonde Soldier again? Cloud wasn't it?" Sephiroth feels his stomach twist at the name but he refuses to let it effect him. Aerith was openly welcome to everyone, why wouldn't she bring him here during their companionship?
Elmyra quickly turns to greet the newcomer, her blue eyes widening. She immediately gasped upon realizing just who Aerith brought. The cup she was holding shattering upon the floor beneath her. "I don't...I thought." She frantically looks over towards her daughter. "I think you have some explaining to do, young lady."
Aerith throws her a sheepish look. "I know. Please don't freak out mom, Sephiroth isn't that same man from the television. He may look like him but I promise you he isn't."
Elmyra doesn't know how to react to that so she sighs heavily, resuming what she was doing prior. "What is it with you and Soldiers? Seems like everytime you come home it's always someone new on your arm. But this one I can very much say I wasn't expecting."
"Oh, mom it's not like that, Sephiroth is different than them."
"Aerith why can't you stay away from trouble? Find a nice man who isn't involved with that awful place? First Zack, then Cloud. Both times something bad overcame you. I am just worried about your safety."
Aerith sits down at the table. Sephiroth remains standing behind her, uncomfortable and unwilling to do anything that might spook the woman anymore than she was already. Unfortunately, he expected the reaction so he was well prepared for anything.
Elmyra places a tray on the table, containing cups and different varieties of teas. As she waits for the water to boil she sweeps up the broken cup. "Where's Marlene? Is she still staying here?" Aerith questions, mindlessly toying with the vase of flowers in front of her.
"Her father picked her up earlier, he promised to bring her by every day to tend to the garden while you are away. She's grown quite attached to them. Reminds me so much of you when you were her age." With the mess picked up and the kettle whistling, she brings it over.
"Mom she's special too, I'm sure you've noticed." Elmyra throws her a look that tells her she had. She begins preparing their beverages.
"I don't have any plans to speak of such developments to anyone. You've been through enough, I won't bring those harsh realities to her too. What they don't know won't kill them."
Elmyra hands out the cups of freshly made tea, she eyes Sephiroth wearily before offering him one. "You're the Great General Sephiroth, aren't you? The war hero?"
He inwardly cringed at that name. "No, maybe once but I'm not that person anymore." He leans forward and takes the offered drink out of politeness.
"What exactly does that mean? You can't just become a new person, yet look like someone else." Elmyra takes a sip, returning it to the table, her hands remaining around the steaming mug. She eyes him suspiciously curious.
"That hero died when he burnt down Nibelheim. I was reborn from his image but I don't aim to reclaim that name ever again."
"So the rumors were true? Shinra did well at covering them up." She was oddly calm, her demeanor remaining unreadable. Sephiroth grips the cup in his hands, the warmth of the liquid somewhat comforting.
"Yes. They didn't want that unfortunate accuracy to damage their reputation. Although, being reborn I've devoted this life to atone for those crimes."
"I take it my daughter has some influence in that? She always had a strong need to help others. Is that her play in your visit? Are you her new bodyguard?"
"Bodyguard?" He chokes out dumbfounded. "No, but I will do everything to protect her from harm. Perhaps that makes me one, doesn't it?"
"Hmm, I see. Just what exactly is your relation to my daughter then?"
"Aerith is my purpose in life, I breathe for her, to become that better person that she brought to life within me. I repent not only for myself but for her. I have harmed many, regrettably even her and though I will never forgive these crimes, I can learn to heal those I've pained. Starting with her." He sighs, looking her deep in her sapphire eyes. "What I'm trying to say, Elmyra is that I love your daughter dearly. I may be the last choice for her but I won't let that stop me from these feelings. Though I don't expect you to accept our relationship right off, I hope in time you do because I will never stop loving her."
"Get out." Elmyra immediately stands. She shakes her head at his words.
"Mom!"
"No, it's okay, Aerith. I'll be waiting for you outside." Sephiroth sets the mug down, thanking the woman for the gesture before leaving.
Aerith immediately looks back to her mother. "Why did you do that? He did nothing wrong?"
"Oh, Aerith why him? I get your heart is forgiving but you've already gotten your heart broken by Zack, you can't keep blindly giving that heart to any Soldier you come across."
"Mom this isn't the same as Zack, I didn't love him, I thought I did but only now do I realize what I felt was something entirely different. I admit I was torn over his abrupt leave but I was a teenager, my emotions, my feelings were all over the place. I clearly mistaken that for love. Only now with Sephiroth do I truly know."
"Aerith I'm sorry but what were you thinking bringing him here? Please enlighten me on just what occurred while you were gone. One minute Cloud is intent on bringing you home then the next, five months later you bring home the most infamous Soldier there is. How else am I supposed to reflect on this?"
"You be my mom and support your daughter's choices. I love him so much, far more than anything. I had a very confusing and quite frankly long journey but Sephiroth helped me through it all, he was my protector, the guardian angel I grew to love. He has a cursed name but he is sincere."
Elmyra sighs heavily, rubbing her brow. "Okay...okay, sorry I just worry for you is all. If this is your choice then I trust you. Not like I could stop you anyway." Elmyra looks at her affectionately.
"Nope, not when it comes to him. I promise the more you get to know Sephiroth the more you'll come to see him for who he truly is."
"He better not ever think to break your heart."
"He won't mom, I swear to all the gods he's here to stay." Aerith stands and Elmyra furrows her brows.
"You aren't leaving already, are you?"
"Yes, it's late and I've had a very tedious day. I would rather go home and rest."
"Home? But this is your home, Aerith."
The girl shakes her head. "It is but at the moment it can't be, I'm dead mom, until I can safely come out of hiding my home is with Sephiroth. He will protect me, I promise to come visit often. There's still more we need to discuss but for now I believe this is enough. I don't want to force too much on you all at once. I already did that with Zack and he was anything but collected."
Elmyra gives her a surprised look and Aerith points it out. "See?" She walks to the door. "Next time, I'll give you those details. A little something to look forward too, okay?"
"I understand. Please don't make me worry too much alright?" Aerith hugs her tightly. "And I will expect a full explanation of this relationship your next visit got it? Not only how Zack is somehow still alive."
Aerith nods. "Promise."
Aerith pulls the door open, catching Sephiroth's black and silver nearby. He perks up at her but doesn't move from the bridge he's leaned on. Elmyra follows her gaze, her features softening. "Apologize to him for me, will you...though I don't hate him, I haven't entirely grasped onto his character yet."
"I will. I love you, mom."
"I love you too. Stay safe."
Aerith quickly makes her way back to Sephiroth. He doesn't say anything to her so she take his silence for her own words. "I'm sorry about that, she means well, I promise. This is just super fresh to her. She hopes you understand."
Sephiroth wraps his arm around her. "No need I'm used to the distaste of people's views. If they feel obliged to get away from me, then so be it. I've grown unfazed by them now."
"But you shouldn't have to be shunned, you should be able to be around people and be accepted for who you are. Isn't that the reason we were reborn?"
Sephiroth looks at her with opposed eyes. "No, my concern right now, my entire purpose is you. I wasn't lying to your mother I live for you Aerith." He raises his hand and presses it gently to her stomach. "For our daughter that grows day by day here. That is the reason I was reborn. Not for the people's acceptance. Just you and her."
She covers his hand with her own, a huge smile on her face. "I can live with that. But doesn't mean I won't try to get it through their heads who dare question my alliance to you."
He leans down and kisses her passionately. She takes that as his conformation.
"Let's go home, Sephiroth, please." He smiles against her lips. "As my lady commands."
...
Hojo holds the vile and puts it in the machine. A series of different results come up. He analyzes them all with curious eyes. One in particular catches his attention and he gives it a thorough twice-over.
He folds his hands in his lap. "Hmm, this is quite surprising indeed." Leaning forward he pulls up a previous lab result and compares the two. As he predicted...something had changed. "So it seems you have something to hide, don't you Sephiroth?" He chuckles darkly. He files the data in a new folder, dating and storing it with the rest.
Just as he sits back in his chair, there's a knock at the door. He allows the researcher entry. "What is it? Have you finished the preparations I asked?"
The man looks at him sheepishly. "No, not yet Sir."
Hojo eyed him before discharging his uselessness with a wave of the hand. "I see, then what brings you here?"
"There's someone asking for you. He sounded urgent."
"Who?"
"They didn't say, Sir."
"Hmm." Rising from his seat Hojo follows the newbie researcher. He didn't even care enough to ask his name.
As they near the elevators Hojo recognizes the man seeking his audience. That black hair and stotic face he knew anywhere. Before they close in on the man, Hojo dismissed the boy. "Make haste of those findings, don't come back until you do. Don't even rest until you find some trace of her, got it?"
The researchers immediately flinched at his harsh tone but did as he's instructed. "Yes, Sir."
Hojo grins up at Tseng. "My, my this is certainly unexpected. Just what brings you here?"
Tseng eyed the scientist but gives nothing away to his urgent visit. "I've come with news."
"Is that right, good I trust?"
"Aerith isn't dead."
"Oh, I'm aware of this already. Sephiroth begs to differ but my findings are never false. But that isn't all you came down here to share is it?"
"No."
"Well produce the news, Turk." Hojo crosses his arms.
"She's with Sephiroth." This catches the scientists attention and he feels a immediate sensation of pleasure at such developments.
"Details."
"As we speak he protects her. To what gain I'm unsure but there's no doubt in my mind that he means to gain something from her."
"And how have you acquired this information?"
"I visited her human mother, Elmyra. Upon realizing I forgot to mention a certain little girl I turned back and found Sephiroth waiting there. It was rather shocking to say the least so I lingered long enough to confirm it was Aerith he was there for."
"It's as I predicted, he no doubt has intentions of finding the promised land. Keep watch of her whereabouts. In time I will find out just what he's plotting."
"Yes, Sir. And Sephiroth? Should I tail him as well?"
Hojo grins wide and sinister. "No, leave him to me, he may think he's in control but he forgets just who he's disobeying. I created him, I built him to the person he is now, I know him far better than anyone. With that to my advantage...he's vulnerable."
Tseng turns to leave but Hojo stops him. "What is this about a little girl?"
"There's this girl that has been staying with Elmyra, I didn't think anything of it but I have reasons to believe she might be another descendant of the Cetra."
"Impossible, what gives you that preposterous idea?"
Tseng shakes his head, immediately faltering. He stands straight, hands behind his back. "I apologize, I must be mistaken. If I may, I'll observe further before blindly announcing such sensitive information."
"As you wish. I do hope the next time you have better information to report."
...
Having returned to the sanctuary of Sephiroth's apartment, Aerith finds herself at ease. She couldn't explain why such a unfamiliar location, in a even more dangerous building brought her so much peace. Perhaps its because it's his security for her, a place they called theirs until things settle.
Aerith hugs herself, smiling. She liked that thought. Though they haven't exactly arranged a permanent status of their courtship she felt they were at that point of living together. As she further ponders she idly wonders if he'd be the type to claim her as his in other ways. The binding way?
She immediately removes those thoughts, now wasn't the time for such adjustments. They've only been exclusive, if she was counting since their first time in the forest, approximately a little over four months. There was no need to rush into tight settlements. She didn't even know if he was the type.
Aerith glances over towards the man of her thoughts, upon arriving Sephiroth had given her space to absorb all the detailed information he'd received from Shinra. She honestly would've preferred he not have to brood alone but there was nothing she could possibly say that'll change what transpired. He was once again Shinra's dog, their test rat. Hojo already withdrew samples from him and she felt overly revolted.
She brings up her finger and begins nawing at her nail. With the way things were progressing, their happy ending she was hoping to gain upon resurrection was slowly dwindling away. Why was it nothing was ever easy in her life? Why had she have to be born special? Was there a sign directed towards her expressing 'for all the bad luck possible strike here'?
And then there was Shinra. She had so much hope that upon rebirth they'd at least consider the change. That they'd open their hearts to their cause because of what became Gaia. Didn't they value life at all? Were the people just ants under their boots? Wasn't that their original sole purpose when they built Migar? To protect their citizens? Then why is it they're so blind with greed to take heed to the suffering they've caused by using the planet's mako?
Aerith sighs exasperated, turning back to the darkened city. Did anything change since Minevra took over? Or were events just going to spiral out of control like they had Gaia? She feels the anxiety of herquestions begin to overwhelm her.
Sephiroth easily notices her distress and comes up behind her, sliding his arms around her middle. She turns her head to his gesture. "What are you thinking about?"
She frowns, solemn. "Nothing good, I'm afraid. I fear for our future."
The arms around her tighten. "Aerith, I promise I will protect you, I will never let you feel unsafe. My involvement with Shinra will secure that."
She rests her head on his arm. "I know but I hate that you even have to. With the way things are escalating Rufus might just throw us into another war. I can't bear the thought of you being put back into that environment. You've shed enough blood, isn't that enough? It's as though we were risen to have history repeat itself."
"I won't let that happen, I will put a end to their plans before it ever gets to that. I don't care if they have to die, they've made their motives clear and that makes them my enemy. I swear on my dying breath our daughter will be born in a world that is peaceful and beautiful."
"I want to believe such heartspoken words but right now I can't, not until I can witness it for myself. I've never been given these small pleasures of life, so I apologize if I can't quickly accept them. Death was all I known until I reshaped fate. I killed Gaia just because of my selfishness. I vowed not to take this life for granted but I can't keep hope either, not when nothing moral has ever came to me. If I am rewarded something good, something bad always trails behind. Perhaps I'm cursed."
"You're not. That fear you feel, that's just a normal human emotion. You lived past your lifeline, of course you will begin to overthink things. But you mustn't, you may think you are being selfish but you're not, your simply taking back what was taken from you. Living a life you earned."
She dares to argue but she can't find the willpower to. She deflates with a heavy sigh. "You're right, sorry...Stupid brain just keeps me on my toes and I wish it'll give it a rest so I can spend these stolen joyous moments with you, with my friends and family."
"Shall I distract you?" Sephiroth murmurs in her ear, his smirk heard.
Aerith slides her eyes closed. "Maybe. What do you have in mind?"
"Many things..." He purrs huskily. Aerith hums, considering just what he could possibly be conjuring up in that head of his. And how he planned to execute them on her.
"But first...How long were you there? In my church?" Its been a nagging constant curiosity that she somehow had to know.
Sephiroth chuckles, pressing his lips behind her ear. She shivers, goosebumps rising onto her skin at the ticklish touch. "Is that really important right now?"
"Yes. Please...Just keep it brief."
"The entire time. Gods you were so sexy standing up to Zack, I've never been so proud."
She laughs brokenly. "Not no where's near you, believe me. I believe it's what turned me on, you were so cool and calm and really stuck it to him. My hero."
Sephiroth smiles against her neck, lightly littering the fair skin with gentle kisses. "Did you mean what you said to Zack?" He murmurs lightly, his breath warm upon her damp skin. She makes a noise for him to continue. "About how everytime you interacted with me you wanted to "jump my bones" as I recall you saying."
Aerith flushes visibly. Even now in his presence she's not once ashamed of it. "I did, but never out of lust I swear." He slides his hands up her front, his light touch teasing. She sighs contently, voice airy. "Our lovemaking was the only way I could see the true you, it was when our pull towards each other was most powerful. I think it was fate bringing us together. Alas, it was our dormant love for each other that took it to those greater heights we never could explain."
Sephiroth listens intently, breathing growing heavy with each passing second. He tastes her supple flesh and Aerith moans lightly, craning her neck for more. "I don't know when exactly I fell in love with you but that first time in Cosmo Canyon was when I think I started too." Sephiroth bites her at this realization and she gasps sharply, threading her fingers through his hair.
"Please, I want to finish what we started in my church. I need to be surrounded by you. To be swallowed by your touch and drowned in your love. I ache so miserably for you that I will never be satisfied until we are completely one person."
Sephiroth groans, palming her breasts in his hands. She lets out a drawn out moan. His touch was gentle but his eagerness was slipping. He squeezes the petite mounds, her nipples hardening in erotic pleasure. "How can I ever come to resist such breathtaking words as those?" She bites her lip at the thickness of his voice, grinding back against his growing arousal. She feels it jump at her attention. Suddenly too tight in the confines of his trousers.
Aerith turns in his arms, sliding her lips over his. He holds her tightly to his body, running his hands underneath her jacket, fingering the back of her dress. She draws out his lips with her tongue, asking refuge in the warmth of his inviting mouth.
Sephiroth immediately accepts her silent request, greeting her wanton tongue with his own. She groans throaty, running her own hands across his chest, curling her fingers into the straps of his armor.
He pants, biting her bottom lip before once more claiming her mouth with his hungrily. Her breath hitches. Her head suddenly fuzzy as he refuses her air. Aerith moans into him, his tongue dominating hers victoriously. She tries to slide her hands further beneath the leather coat but it was tightly secured, she whines displeased. Finding his belt she loosens the binding.
"You're wasting no time are you?" He pants hotly, his voice deep with desire.
She looks up at him, shamelessly licking her lips. He follows the movement with his eyes, ready to pounce back on them if she does it again. "I need to touch you, Sephiroth and not through the leather." With triumph fingers accomplished Aerith slides them around his hips, standing on her toes to press her lips to his collarbone. He sighs lovingly, eyes sliding closed. He holds the back of her head as she ravishingly explored his skin with her lips.
Aerith moans at his taste, sliding nimble fingers across his shoulders pushing the heavy coat off. It tangles at his bent elbows but she doesn't care, she takes this newfound nakedness and mouths a bare shoulder. "Aerith, not that I hate it but shouldn't I be the one showering you in kisses and undeniable love?"
She smiles against his skin, lightly dragging her nails down his chest purposely. He shivers, her fingers toying with the waisband of his trousers. "Not this time, you're always doing the work, tonight I want to return the favor. I want to take care of your pleasure."
He leans further into her ear, voice gruff. "You do take care of me, far more than you will ever know. I will never tire from seeking your pleasure, you are worth every blissful second of work it takes to reach that satisfaction...you are my ultimate treasure and I won't hesitate to treat you as such."
Aerith's back arches as he skimmed his fingers down her spine. Slowly counting out each ridge like it was the sexiest thing in the world. She grabs the back of his head, leaning up once more. She kisses his neck, his hands immediately squeezing her ass and she moans. "Gods you sure know how to treat a woman."
"Only you, Aerith." The way he says her name is fucking sinful and she visibly trembles in need.
Aerith pulls her attention away from his massaging hands, trying not to think about how perfectly they fit with the shape of her body. She counts her blessings on whichever god made them so indubitable ideal for each other.
Aerith scatters his skin with her wet lips, if she could reach his ear she'd eagerly give him the same torture but alas she couldn't so she breaths heavy against his throat. She licks his adam's apple, tone dark. "Couch, now..."
"Demanding aren't we?" He taunts and Aerith looks up at him through hazy lust-filled eyes. "Only towards you as you continuously drive me insane. Gods only you can bring this person out of me."
Sephiroth kisses her with entrapped passion, walking her back to her designated location. He sits down, Aerith following. They seperate and Sephiroth slides leather-clad fingers across her cheek. "I don't mind, I like when you take what you want...I'm yours to command, always and forever."
Aerith takes great pride in that and she reclaims him. "I love you, Aerith...only you will ever witness such weakness you invoke in me." He breaths against her mouth, their harsh labored pants mingling.
"Good I only ever want me to see you like this, no one is privileged enough to be given such a delightful sight. She slides down the length of his body, "You are mine, Sephiroth." She murmurs into his skin, planting her soft lips anywhere and everywhere. "Heart...body and soul." Each word was rewarded with a teasing swipe of her tongue. From his nipples to his navel.
Only when her feet are planted back on the floor does she stand before him. His breathtaking, blown with lust gaze meets hers, the green depths dark and swirling with pure want for her.
She bites her lips at such a dangerous, overly sexy look, her pussy seemingly dripping in anticipation for him to claim her. Hastily she shrugs out of her red jacket, kicking it to the side when it pools behind her. With the heavy clothing gone a loose strap falls from her shoulder, revealing the top of her breast.
Sephiroth's breath hitches, his trousers looking painfully tight with the incredibly tented bulge of his need for her. He moves forward, running his hands underneath her dress. He squeezes her thighs, ass, hips, anywhere he could touch he did with pure unabashed vigor.
Aerith takes the unspoken beg in Sephiroth's eyes and pulls the pink fabric over her head. She's instantly pulled forward, towards his awaiting hungry lips once she had. He presses his mouth to her bare skin, kissing anywhere he could reach. Her stomach, hips, ribs. He was relentlessly everywhere.
She combs her hands through his thick silver hair tossing her head back when he glides a solid trail of his tongue up to her breast. Except it never comes. Instead she felt a hand rest between them instead. "I'm so sorry." He suddenly says and Aerith furrows her brows, looking down at him questionably. She means to ask why the abrutly alter in behavior but when she notices that look of guilt and just where his hand was rested she doesn't need to.
Though there isn't a scar from her previous death, there would always be one in his heart. "I never really told you how awful I feel for killing you. I shouldn't even be allowed this but here I am, seemingly dying if I don't have you. I can't ever live without you now...but this..." he gestures her heart where Masamune once protruded from, stained with the crimson of her Cetra blood. "This still pains me terribly."
She shakes her head, finding his face with her hands. "Oh, Sephiroth, but you did apologize. So many beautiful times. You've even healed the internal scar that day in The Ancient City. I love you still...I've learned to accept both sides of you here in my heart, even the one that stopped it with Masamune."
Aerith leans down to her knees, capturing his lips before he dares speak another word. She knew eventually it'll surface since he was reminded upon his visit to Shinra so Aerith did what she did best. She distracted him from thinking, from bringing up the past that doesn't matter to her.
"I accept you apologies, these moments right now, these gorgeous soul-expressing emotions I feel from you are all I will ever need to know just how much you resent. So please, give me your love, your worries, your sins, everything you store up inside your scarred heart. I will share them with you, I will lift up the sorrows of those painful memories until nothing but good ones remain."
She smiles, stroking his pale skin with her thumbs. "I meant what I said, nothing will keep us apart, we can learn and teach, but most of all we can heal together as one soul."
Sephiroth pulls her into his lap, finding purchase upon her lips. She moans into him, enthusiastic to his risen resolve. It won't be easy, but they can get through their demons together because nothing in the entire world...the entire universe is strong enough to stop them.
Aerith grinds across his groin, smiling against his mouth as his cock was still very much active and begging for her. She slips away first, head thrown back as he mirrored her actions, his much more pleasurable with the force behind them.
"Fuck me, Sephiroth...Make love to me...claim me as yours until our hearts merge into one perfectly healed entity. I don't care how long it takes, as long as it's you who does it."
Sephiroth stops the delicious movements between them. She doesn't dare falter, she takes initiative. Leaning forward, she kisses, sucks and bites his neck. Anything her desire craved she dished out without care. There was nothing more she needed than to be here, tasting, kissing, touching the very source of her love.
Sephiroth releases so many beautiful noises, his arm sliding around her back. He growls, quickly standing. This action doesn't once divert her actions. She too far gone to stop now. The beast within her that he awoke will never be chained until he gives her the satisfaction of their union.
Like this in the security of his arms she is able to reach those wonderful spots she couldn't on her own feet. Aerith tucks his bangs behind his ear, lightly biting his earlobe. She purposely purrs his name, tangling her fingers through his silver hair, the strands soft and pleading to be pulled.
Aerith feels her back hit something hard and cold but she doesn't care enough to find out. She seeks his tongue, allowing him to elicit his conflicted emotions out onto her. She will take everything he sends her way, because she loves him enough to trust him him with her life. That's just how bonded they've gotten since their first night together. She wouldn't dare ask this of anyone else. He was all she ever needed, wanted, fated.
Sephiroth thrusts his hips up into hers and she cries out, head thrown back. She digs her nails into his shoulders. He groans deeply, his grip powerfully comfortable upon her waist. Even completely clouded with lust he was still so gentle with her. "I love you so fucking much, Aerith..." She smiles through her bitten lip, jaw falling slack the more he grinds himself against her.
When his movements begin to grow too much he moves them again. She laughs so wonderfully, not giving a care in the world to where he was going or planning as long as she had that cock inside her by the end of their journey.
Aerith hugs his hips tightly with her legs, yanking at his hair when he bites her collarbone. He licks the spot apologetic, trailing those wonderful lips to her ear, once again he uses those teeth on her earlobe and she arches, crying out in pleasure. She feels him brace his arm onto something behind her. He pants harsh and hot in her ear. She finds it unbelievably erotic.
Only when her senses come to life from the powerful scent of him does she know where they're at. Her back hits the soft comfort of his bed and she lifts herself onto her elbows, breathing as strained as her desire.
Sephiroth immediately undresses before her, bit by bit the heavy leather peeling away from his skin and Aerith almost cries at the length it was taking to remove the protecting armor. She greedily stares him down, watching with so much interest she was eager to touch herself just to tease him. Instead she trails her eyes over his body, from his smirking face, to his broad shoulder, to his defined stomach muscles, to the cock that was ethereal beautiful as his owner.
"Like what you see?" He purrs smoothly, kissing her before she could even utter the words. She whines and he grins agaisnt her lips. "Very much so." She managed to force out, her breaths dangerously uneven.
"Of course not as much as I love your body. Soft and petite made just for my hard and large." Aerith inwardly curses at that sharp liquid tone, her body igniting in the pure satisfaction of knowing he loved her physique as must as she did his.
Sephiroth trails down her body, watches her greedily with hazy mako eyes. He lifts her leg, leaving wet open-mouthed kisses up from her foot to her thigh. He nibbles at her clothed pussy and she falls back, on the brink of tears.
Sephiroth threads his fingers through the waistband, teasingly rubbing his fingers over her sharp hipbones. She gasps, whining, her hips lifting but he refuses to give her the contemptment of removing them. "Gods...don't tease! I can't...!"
He chuckles tasting her skin with his tongue and she shivers, knuckles white as her hands fist the sheets. They were safer than Sephiroth's hair would've. He once more eats her through her panties, the wetness there pooling impossibly worse than they were already. He nibbles lightly with his teeth and she curses. "Fuck..."
Sephiroth pulls back from her, his eyes growing even more dangerous. He climbs completely over her once more, his voice deep and husky in her ear. "Never hold yourself back, I want to hear every beautiful vulgar word I force out of you..."
Aerith bites her lip, she never realized he liked her curses that much. Hell it was even new to her. She wraps a arm around his shoulders. "Fuck me, please, I can't hold out anymore. I need you..."
"I won't fuck you, Aerith, I love you too much for such."
Aerith shakes her head, pushing his bangs to the side. "I don't want slow tonight, please I want your frustration, your pain, every bitter horrible emotion you are feeling. I want to endure it with you, please..."
Sephiroth seems genuinely shocked and he softens. "I won't...I can't risk hurting you."
"You won't, I trust you with my entire being. Please you need this...we need it. I am not made out of glass, Sephiroth. Don't hold back. You can still make love to me, but pour your feelings into it, good and bad. Allow me to heal your heart with our unity."
Sephiroth doesn't confirm whether he will or not, he merely captures her lips, sliding her panties down her legs. She kicks them off, spreading her legs, yanking Sephiroth further between them. His cock jerks against her sex, wet and achingly scorching. She's never been more ready than she was now.
Lifting her hips, Sephiroth follows her command, filling her in one deep thrust. Their loud cries of pleasure merge together in pure ecstacy. He doesn't give any time for adjustments, she doesnt need it, as he finds a rhythm he felt appropriate.
Aerith whines a curse tangled in her throat. She spreads her legs further, fingers dug into his back. She rocks her hips in time with his thrusts, forcing their connection far deeper than either thought imaginable. Sephiroth looks down at her, tracing her lips with a gentle swipe of his thumb. She finds that hand and laces their fingers together.
He yanks her up from that connection, her other immediately grabbing the nape of his neck. Sephiroth holds her steady, upright with a strong arm. He slams his hips into her harder, and she gasps, seemingly seeing stars. She slides her eyes closed, mouth hung open for her honest cries. "Oh, god yes...Sephiroth..."
He silences her blissful cries with his own, devouring them with his tongue. She tightens her hold on him and he lets go of her hand so she had better leverage. He joins the other at her ass, fingers digging into the plump flesh.
Sephiroth growls into her, feeling her walls pulse and tighten around him. She was close and that just motivates him to give her the climax she's rightfully earned for the selfless gift she's rewarding him right now.
Aerith wants to cleanse him, to allow him to take his tension out on her and he can't begin to fathom how incredibly thoughtful that was of her. She cares too much and it shows so wonderfully in these euphoric moments.
He loves her so goddamm much that he can't go another day without telling her how much she means to him. He will never need any other, he will fight for her, die for her, kill for her. He will make her his, now and forever, in all planes of existence. They were bonded for eternity.
Sliding a hand between them, Sephiroth rubs at her clit with his thumb, circling the swollen bud in strong purposeful circles. Aerith trembles in his hold, her fingers harsh as they grip his skin but he doesn't let it distract him. Her pleasure was worth whatever pain he will endure to give her that mindblowing orgasm he will undoubtedly reward her.
Aerith tosses her head back, coming with a scream, his name in tow.
Sephiroth watches her, moaning deeply at her gorgeous face, cheeks flushed, green eyes glazed over in pure raptured bliss. Gods, she's never looked so fucking beautiful. Sephiroth forces his thrusts harder, deeper, faster, stroking her sensitive walls with his cock, only when he's nearing his own peak does he stop, removing himself from her slick warmth completely.
Aerith looks at him, her eyes heavy-lidded and clouded. He kisses her, voice thick with his own nearing edge. Except not yet, he wasn't ready to end this so soon. "Turn around, Aerith, I'm far from finished with you.'
Aerith grins, nodding suddenly fired back up. She turns laying on her stomach. Sephiroth leans over her, kissing her shoulder, sliding his hands down her sides. He nibbles at her ear. "Let me know immediately if I hurt you, okay?"
Aerith glances back at him. Her smile sincere. "You won't. I trust you completely, Sephiroth."
He smiles at her, heart blistering in warmth on knowing that she holds him in such high confidence. He litters her back with loving kisses, tracing his tongue down her shoulder blades. She arches and he glides a finger down the length of her spine.
"You're so beautiful..." Sephiroth praises, once more entering her. She moans and he hisses as he could feel everything. Every wonderful inch of her, hot and gripping and entirely her.
He circles her hips with strong hands, rocking his own into her slowly, taking heed to her body language, one wrong jerk and he will stop instantly. He's only done this position with her once and he was anything but gentle then. He won't be that bitter man again, he will give her the pleasure it brings.
He gradually picks up, Aerith moans increasing. She turns her head to the side, eyes tightly shut, fingers gripping the bedsheets when he finding a pace that is most satisfying for them both.
Every hard, fast thrust she met eagerly, wantonly, her noises of bliss so utterly favorable that it drives Sephiroth further. He bends over her, panting deeply into her shoulder. She cries out hoarsely, biting into the pillows as another orgasm overwhelms her. "Fuck!!" She gasps, pressing back into him.
Sephiroth gives a couple more deep powerful thrust before he's coming with her. He groans brokenly, biting into her shoulder, fingers dug into her hips. She mewls at the familar warming sensation of his orgasm, cloating her inner walls with his essence, further binding them as he remains within her even after their bodies disconnect.
Sephiroth entirely exhausted, rolls off of her, Aerith immediately snuggling into his side. He pants labored and uneven, his senses not yet having returned. She smiles, kissing his fingers that are tangled within her own.
"Are you okay?" He finally gets out, voice hoarse and raspy and alluringly broken.
Aerith hums. "Perfectly. Thank you, Sephiroth."
He looks down at her, his confusion so very noticeable. She chuckles. "For letting me help you release that tension you've been bottling up. I know sex isn't always the healthiest way but I enjoyed it so very much."
"I don't like being rough, not with you Aerith, not after our first time."
Aerith leans up on her elbow, looking him deeply in the eyes. She rests her hand over his racing heart. "You weren't rough, Sephiroth, and that was not like the first time. Gods not even close. I know our strengths are on entirely different levels but I don't want you to hold yourself back from me. If I can be your outlet in sex then please let me, don't close off your pain because you think I can't handle it."
Sephiroth sighs, pushing her bangs to the side. "You're too perfect, Aerith. How did I ever get so lucky? Though I knew awhile ago, I only just now realized the depth of how deeply I want you by my side."
Aerith blinked, suddenly surprised at such a raw display of hidden affection. Though they weren't uncommon this was. She catches onto the meaning behind those words. The true meaning. "Are you...are you implying what I think you are?"
Sephiroth smiles, stroking her cheek. "Maybe I am."
...
A/N:
Now I know I've been a bit harsh to Cloud, but I wanted to highlight this chapter with a different angle of what he feels. Before it's always been in Sephiroth's point but I wanted to change that and give some insight into his character. This will not in any way change him so, take a relieved breath now. He still very much hates Sephiroth but only to Tifa, behind closed doors will he admit that the Sephiroth here is not the same he knew.
I know in remake, white flowers were already growing in Aerith's church upon chapter 8...however, I changed that for the means of the story. Only because I liked the meaning behind the different colors. Now in the original we were only given yellow, which represents happiness and joy. Or in some cases reunion (Aerith and Cloud in remake Yada Yada Yada blah blah blah ew stop you Claerith shippers) but white...well they represent grief and are commonly used in funerals BUT they could also be symbolized for rebirth, love, or purity. Now in this fic's case I decided to go down the rebirth and love route. It just fit better than them just randomly growing in Aerith's church for no reason other than something new.
Hopefully I didn't push on Hojo finding out too soon. Though he doesn't know entirely I felt this little tip-bit was acceptable. Now the reason I chose to add this was because I didn't want to drag out unnecessary time frames just to build up the suspense. Like omg five chapters later boom he finds out. No, I want to gradually build up his suspicion and give him time to plan his evil deeds because...you know he's fucking Hojo.
Hope you all are not too tired after reading that horribly long chapter gosh I wasn't even expecting it to be that long lol but that smut scene damn right...ugh holy water palease, thank you. I'm sure it was that that caused this chapter to be so lengthy. Either way hope you all enjoyed and if you'd like leave a reviews, thoughts, love everything!!! I'm all here for it. See you next chapter, love you all!!