Final Fantasy - All Series Fan Fiction ❯ Ashen Skies ❯ Chapter 8

“Ashen Skies”

Chapter 8

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Warnings: Het (mild), Yaoi (explicit/graphic-last part of the chapter)

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*Disclaimer: Final Fantasy and all related characters belong to Square-Enix. This fiction piece is strictly a non-profit exercise of creativity and entertainment for people (like me) who can't get enough of this world and the characters.*

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Cosmo Canyon:

 

So far, she'd made it through to the middle of the week without Reno making any suggestive comments, putting an inappropriate hand on her or staring at her body…much. Tifa supposed she couldn't fault him for looking now and then. After all, other men did as much all the time and she was rather used to it. The important thing was, he wasn't openly leering at her. She didn't allow herself too much optimism because the Turk still had two more days to go before it was officially the end of the week and he could still cave to the urge to drink. If he was an alcoholic, asking him to go cold turkey for a whole week was probably asking a lot of someone she barely knew.

 

But that was the point. She knew alcoholics, had seen what they did to their families and loved ones and she wanted no part of a relationship with one. She believed if Reno could stop for a week just because a woman he'd just met asked him too, then his drinking problem was just a symptom of overindulgence rather than an addiction. She considered her own reasons for even bothering and with a sigh, she admitted to herself that she was interested in him. He was engaging, funny, brave, good-looking and sexy—when he wasn't being a jerk.

 

Tifa had just finished showering after practicing her fighting moves outside when she spotted Reno in the cafeteria. She hesitated for a moment, watching him from the hallway as he finished his lunch and stacked his plate on the wash line counter. He still wore his uniform in a more casual manner than the other Turks but there weren't any stains on the white shirt now, and she knew if she got close enough, she'd smell the pleasant scent of cologne instead of whiskey. He really was a handsome man, with his sculpted, angular bone structure and exotic crescent markings.

 

Deciding to move and get her lunch before he caught her staring at him, Tifa walked in and took her place in the queue for the buffet. She watched from the corner of her eye as Rude opened one of the coolers and retrieved two cans of beer.

 

“Catch, partner,” Rude announced before lightly tossing one of the cans to Reno a few feet away.

 

Reno deftly caught it and studied it for a moment. Tifa expected him to open it but instead, he shrugged and shook his head. “Thanks man, but I'll pass.” Reno tossed the can back to his partner and Rude caught it and raised an inquisitive brow at him. Reno smirked. “Made a promise to a lady, yo.”

 

Rude's eyebrow rose even further up. “A `lady'?” he inquired. “Not a chick?”

 

Tifa felt an unreasonable rush of affection for the redhead when Reno shook his head and lowered his eyes thoughtfully. “Nah…not this one.” Reno sighed and looked around. His gaze met Tifa's and for a second, they just stared at each other. He gave her a crooked little smile and a wink before sauntering off. Tifa hastily averted her gaze, feeling heat bloom in her cheeks.

 

“Miss? Did you hear me? What'll you have?” The man behind the counter looked impatient as he waited for her to make her choice.

 

Tifa snapped out of her little reverie and bit her lip, her brown eyes scanning the food selection. “I'm sorry,” she apologized, “I think I'll have a piece of brisket, a bowl of the bean soup and a slice of the corn bread, thank you.”

 

He put the requested items on her tray and Tifa thanked him again before taking it. She got a clean mug from the overhead cup holder in the kitchen area and filled it with water from the indoor drinking well before selecting her table. As she sat down to eat, she thought about Reno and the way he made her feel both frustrated and fluttery at the same time. She didn't want to be attracted to him. She didn't think she should even be considering getting into a relationship with anyone right now, even if Reno did prove he had something to offer.

 

Even as she tried to be practical and told herself that the world was in too terrible a state to consider romance, she thought about the thin gold chain Reno wore around his neck and the way it drew attention to his throat and clavicle. He always wore the top of his shirt unbuttoned and from what she'd seen, he looked like he had a nice chest.

 

Realizing where her thoughts were leading, Tifa groaned and shook her head.

 

~And I get so annoyed with him for staring at my chest. Well, at least I don't leer at him.~

 

~***********************************~

 

Reno was on his way to the hangar to give his chopper a tune-up when he spotted Elena in the corridor. She seemed to be doing a bit better now, finally accepting Cissnei's death and grieving in a more healthy way. She was carrying an unlit candle and a desert thistle in her hands and he guessed she was on her way outside to honor Cissnei's memory, as she did each day. He thought it was a little strange that she did it at noon in the midday heat, but she told him it was too sad to do it at sunset or at night when the stars were out.

 

“Hey Elena,” he called out as he closed the distance between them. “Want a little company?” Like Rude, he wasn't good at expressing his emotions…at least not on a serious level. He'd worked with Cissnei for a long time and he'd come to think of both her and Elena as something like kid sisters. Maybe Elena shouldn't grieve alone, today.

 

The blonde looked at him and she seemed to consider it for a moment before giving a little nod. Once the “gossip queen” of the Turks, she hardly spoke these days. Reno walked with her through the winding tunnels until they reached the exit and together, they went to the center of the ruined town and stopped on the earthen platform where the bonfire used to burn each night. Elena tried to light the candle but her lighter kept going out before she could get the wick lit, so Reno produced his and cupped his hand over it to light it for her.

 

“Thanks,” Elena murmured in appreciation. She set the candle down on the hard-packed earth and lay the thistle beside it. She sank to her knees and sat on her ankles quietly, shutting her eyes in silent homage. Reno joined her, sitting down cross-legged beside her and staring at the candle flame as he thought of Cissnei and all the comrades they'd lost before her.

 

After a few moments of silence, Elena spoke. “I miss her, so much.”

 

Reno looked at her and saw the tears welling in her hazel eyes. He reached out and put an arm around her, patting the shoulder furthest away from him as she leaned into his half-embrace and put her head on his shoulder. “We all do, kid. It sucks.”

 

He sensed that she needed more than that, but damned if he was any good at this sort of thing. He could think of only one positive thing to say. “It was quick, yo.” He squeezed her gently and kissed her forehead. “She probably didn't get a chance to feel a thing. I…I know that does fuck-all to help, but…” He sighed.

 

“It helps,” Elena whispered. She patted his knee. “You're an okay guy sometimes, Reno.”

 

He snorted. “'Cha. Keep it to yourself, doll.”

 

She gave a tiny, tragic little smile and pulled away, wiping her eyes hastily and sniffing. “I know you wouldn't mind if a certain, exotic brunette got wind of it.”

 

Reno shrugged, unsurprised that even in her state of grief, Elena had taken notice of his interest in Tifa. “Doubt she'd believe it. I think she's got the idea that I've got an agenda for every decent thing I try to do…can't say I blame her for that either. Maybe I really am just a selfish asshole. It's gotten me by so far, you know?”

 

Elena regarded him thoughtfully. “You play it off like you don't care but if that were true, I don't think you'd be sitting out here with me now.”

 

Reno sighed. “Think so, huh?” He studied her for a moment and he got an idea. “Hey Elena, you're a chick, right?”

 

She blinked at him for a second before looking down at the twin mounds of her concealed breasts. “If I'm not, then these are a mistake.”

 

Reno chuckled. “No offense, sweet stuff. I guess I've worked with ya for so long I just don't look at you like I do other chicks. Look, I need a girl's advice here. You know, about Tifa.”

 

She gave him another little smile. “You're really got the hotts for her, don't you? I notice you haven't had a drop to drink all week. Does she have something to do with that?”

 

“We've got a kind of arrangement,” he said with a smirk. “She says she wants to see what I'm really like so if I don't drink for a week, I get to dress her up in an outfit of my choice. I dunno if she'll really wear it but it's worth a shot, yo.”

 

Elena gave him a wary look. “Just what kind of outfit do you have in mind?”

 

“Something nice.” He shrugged. Seeing the expression on her face, he gave her a serious look. “And I mean that, toots. I might trip over myself thinking of that body in a thong and a pair of pasties but I'm not a fucking idiot. I know I've got a real thin chance of getting a girl like that. Hell, maybe I shouldn't even be trying.” He sighed, knowing that Tifa was likely just humoring him. Good girls never went for guys like him.

 

“So you're not just into her for a fling,” Elena guessed.

 

“I dunno.” Reno averted his gaze, uncomfortable with her observation. “I mean, she's not the sort of woman you just `fling'. She ain't my type.”

 

“Then why are you so into her?” Elena was smiling at him now and he could see the teasing light coming back to life in her bereaved eyes.

 

“Maybe I'm just bored.” Reno refused to admit that he always got a little breathless around the brunette.

 

“Or maybe the kind of women you're used to hitting on aren't what you're really want,” Elena theorized. “Your `type' is usually the touch and go variety. You buy them a few drinks, flirt with them and all they care about is that they've got a sexy guy with a big wallet to go home with. Maybe that's just not enough for you anymore.”

 

Reno sighed. “All right then, Little Miss Shrink…while we're on the couch, how about you tell me what I should be doing to get Tifa, then?”

 

“Well, no offense but I'd say you should avoid doing most of what you usually do,” Elena answered. She combed her flaxen bangs away from her eyes and looked out at the landscape. “Tifa's not like the women you're used to so you shouldn't use the same techniques. Oh, and I've seen the flowers you leave by her bunk every morning. That's a nice touch. You should definitely stick with things like that.”

 

“Got it,” Reno said with a nod. “Keep bringing the flowers. What else?”

 

“It's not rocket science,” Elena chuckled. “Just be courteous with her. Compliment her hair, look her in the eye, strike up conversations—without getting raunchy. You don't want to go overboard and brown-nose her, though. That would be fake. Also, don't get patronizing with her. You can be a gentleman without being sexist.”

 

Reno crinkled his nose. “Know what? I think I'm just going to find a nice slutty chick and get it out of my system. This is like driving deaf and blind, yo. Too many damned contradictions.”

 

Elena sighed and gave him a level look. “Do you want her or not, Reno?”

 

Reno worked his mouth, intending to say that it wasn't worth the trouble. He thought of Tifa's warm brown eyes, soft skin, sweet smile and gorgeous body and his resolve failed him. He huffed a frustrated sigh and nodded in defeat. “Yeah, okay. Guess I'll try to do all that.” Beneath his breath, he muttered: “What do I look like, a goddamned saint?”

 

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Modeoheim, later that evening:

 

Cloud finally came out of his drug-induced sleep and he mumbled in confusion and sat up in bed. He rubbed his eyes and blinked. With a frown, he rubbed them again. Something was…off. His vision wasn't blurry—on the contrary, the world seemed to be in sharper focus than usual. He blinked hard and looked around, noting that the shadows weren't as dark as he was used to and the overhead lanterns that he usually considered dim were abnormally bright. Someone dropped something in the hallway and the resulting crash sounded like it happened right at his feet, making him jump involuntarily.

 

Cloud scratched his head in thought, wondering why his senses seemed so magnified. He stopped and furrowed his brows as the simple action of scratching caused tingles to race along his scalp and fingertips. Even his skin was hyper sensitive. He took an experimental breath through his nose and he was relieved to find that the congestion was practically gone. A second later, he made a face as the action caused the smell of body odor to waft into his nostrils. He lifted one arm and sniffed experimentally, thinking it must have come from him. No, he wasn't the culprit. He sniffed the air again and detected that it came from somewhere to his right.

 

~Am I smelling my bunk neighbor? How is that possible? I could hardly breathe through my nose this morning and even before I was sick, I'd have to be standing right next to someone to smell body odor—unless they were really grungy.~

 

Cloud tried to remember what happened before he woke up and there were gaping holes in his recollection. With a sigh, he decided that his weird sensitivity must simply be a result of his illness, the medications he'd been given or a combination of both. He saw two bottles of pills sitting on his worn little bedside table and he picked them up and examined them. One was labeled as antibiotics and the other was labeled as decongestant.

 

“Take one tablet with food, twice per day until supply is gone,” Cloud read aloud softly as he examined the antibiotic label. He read the decongestant label next. “Take one every four to six hours as needed, not to exceed eight per day.”

 

With a shrug, he opened the antibiotic container and procured one pill. He coughed a little and decided to take one of the decongestants too, if only to clear up his lungs faster so that the next time there was a call to arms, he might be well enough to join in. He pocketed the two pills and put the bottles in his trunk before leaving his cubby to go and get dinner. As he walked through the barracks, he saw Zack squatting in his bunker with the privacy screen open. The Lieutenant was busy digging through his trunk.

 

Hoping to get a bit of clarification over the events of the day, Cloud approached his friend and cleared his throat politely to make his presence known. Zack twisted around to look up at him and he smiled when he saw him.

 

“Hey there, Cloud. It's about time you rejoined the living.”

 

“Thanks,” replied the blond softly. His voice was still a bit hoarse but his throat no longer burned every time he spoke or swallowed. “I'm feeling much better. Uh…what happened while I was out?”

 

Zack motioned invitingly for Cloud to have a seat on his bed and when the blond complied, he answered him. “Well, we ran into some nasty luck this time. I know you feel like you missed out but you should probably be glad you weren't there. We lost a lot of guys and some of the equipment got smashed up.”

 

Cloud winced. “I'm glad you're okay. What about the other officers?” He specifically wanted to ask about Sephiroth but Zack already knew he was infatuated with him and he didn't want to embarrass himself.

 

“They all pulled through fine,” Zack assured him. He gave him a searching look. “You don't remember Seph coming to get you with Aerith and I?”

 

Cloud opened his mouth to say “no” but then a flash of recollection made him blink. “I…I remember something,” he said uncertainly. “They announced the mission and I went to join the field teams. I ran into the General on my way and I started having a coughing fit and then…I um…woke up on an examination table. Professor Hojo drew some blood and gave me a couple of shots.” Cloud frowned and shook his head. “Everything goes black after that…except I think I had a dream about you guys.”

 

Zack grinned as if someone had told him a joke. “A dream, huh? You were pretty happy to see Sephiroth when you woke up.”

 

Cloud shook his head. “No, I don't…remember…” He stopped and his eyes widened in horror as the “dream” came back to him with more clarity. “Zack?”

 

“Yeah?” Zack was still grinning that wolf's grin.

 

“I didn't…uh…tell Sephiroth I thought he was beautiful, did I?”

 

Zack nodded. “Uh-huh. You also hugged him. It was cute.”

 

Cloud groaned and put his head in his hands. “Fuck.”

 

Zack reached out and patted him on the shoulder. “Hey, don't beat yourself up over it. You were as high as a kite.”

 

“Doesn't matter.” Cloud shook his head and wished he could go back in time and somehow stop himself from doing such a stupid, embarrassing thing. “I crossed a line. I wouldn't be surprised if he has me demoted or kicked out of the army altogether.”

 

“You're blowing it all out of proportion,” Zack snorted. “Look, you can take this or leave it but if Sephiroth minded you hugging him, he would have dropped you on your ass right away. All he cared about was finding out what Hojo did to you while we were gone, buddy.”

 

Cloud looked at the black-haired Soldier hesitantly and he was sure his face was bright pink with humiliation. “Really?” He thought about what he'd heard from Sephiroth's bunk that night and he supposed the possibility that the General liked him wasn't too far-fetched.

 

Zack nodded and smiled sincerely at him. “Really. Now stop moping around like you're going to be executed by a firing squad.”

 

“I'm just so embarrassed,” Cloud grumbled.

 

Zack watched him thoughtfully for a moment and then he brightened. “Tell you what,” he said as he pulled something out of his trunk and grabbed the parrot plushy off the bed, “Why don't you come watch me make an idiot out of myself. It might take your mind off your own embarrassment.”

 

Cloud gave him a puzzled look. “What are you about to do that would make an idiot out of you?”

 

Zack put the item that he'd pulled out of his trunk on his head and Cloud saw that it was a black felt pirate hat, complete with a skull and crossbones. The Lieutenant tugged it securely into place and it pushed his long spikes down, leaving a stray lock of sooty hair hanging over his left eye and revealing that his hair was a bit longer than Cloud originally thought, now that it wasn't standing up.

 

“I'm about to do my pirate act for the kiddies,” Zack said with a bright, toothy grin. “There's nothing like watching someone else make an ass of themselves to make you feel better about your own goof-ups, right?”

 

“But you're embarrassing yourself on purpose,” argued Cloud. He fought a smile as Zack pulled out a costume jacket and put it on over his sweater, adding to the fake pirate image. “It's not the same thing.”

 

Zack shrugged and stuck the parrot on his right shoulder, attaching it to a Velcro strip sewn onto the jacket. “So what? Humiliation is still humiliation, whether it's accidental or on purpose. Trust me, if Genesis happens to come in while I'm doing this I'm going to get picked on plenty.” Zack shut and locked his trunk before sliding it under his bed and standing up straight.

 

Cloud looked up at his costumed friend as Zack crossed his arms over his chest and looked at him expectantly. The blond shrugged and stood up, deciding to take him up on the offer if only for the amusement of seeing Zack acting like a pirate in front of a dozen or so kids.

 

~********************************~

 

Cloud took a seat near the piano and watched as the kids gathered around Zack and sat down on the floor. Parents stood by and watched with smiles as the Lieutenant started telling a tale to the kids under the moniker of “Captain Salty Dog”. It was a story of a battle between two pirate ships, off the coast of Costa Del Sol. Cloud initially only came to humor Zack but as his friend told the lively story and acted out parts of it, the blond found himself enjoying it and chuckling softly when Zack said or did something to make the children laugh.

 

The funniest parts were when Zack got into arguments with Crackers. He'd given the fake parrot a cheeky personality and he talked for the bird out the corner of his mouth. His ventriloquism skills weren't the best, but he made up for that with the humorous exchanges of insults he had with the toy bird. It didn't really surprise Cloud much to learn that Zack pulled off an excellent pirate accent and attitude.

 

Partway through Zack's story, Cloud saw Aerith enter the den from the corridor leading to the cultivation area. He gave her a little smile of greeting when she spotted him and waved. Zack was too absorbed in his little act to notice her and Aerith watched him with soft eyes and giggled behind her hand when he did something amusing.

 

Cloud wasn't an expert on relationships but he knew love when he saw it. He watched the expressions of adoration and tenderness flit over her features as she watched her boyfriend entertain and Cloud predicted that it wouldn't be long before he witnessed the two of them getting married. He caught a flash of red from the corner of his eye and turned his head to see Genesis walking in with Angeal. The two officers stood watching while Zack finished up his act and Genesis had a crooked smirk on his face.

 

“But we outsmarted `em, we did,” Zack was saying, “led `em to the coral reef and I'd not be a Captain worth me `salt' if I didn't know how `t navigate `round those treacherous sea walls! We skirted `em and the fools that followed took a bad path and ran into the reef. Sank to the bottom of the ocean, they did…but not before me mates and I took the booty from their ship.” Zack paused and made Crackers squawk: “Shark bait! Shark bait!”

 

When the laughter died down, Zack completed his story. “So let that be a lesson to ye, landlubbers! Never start a fight with Captain Salty Dog unless ye know the waters well. Now, I be off! We set sail fer land to sell our swag and find some saucy—“ He noticed Aerith for the first time and he abruptly fell out of character and dropped his pirate accent. “—Wenches.” Zack stared at her and his face quickly became ruddy with embarrassment.

 

Cloud hastily covered his hand as a hearty laugh escaped his lips. For all his talk of self-inflicted embarrassment, Zack hadn't shown the least bit of stage fright or mortification until he realized he was being watched by his girlfriend. Now Cloud actually did feel better about his slip-up with Sephiroth, though he knew it was mean of him.

 

To further add to Zack's mollification, the kids noticed the direction of his stare and when they turned their heads and saw the subject of his gaze, a little girl whispered: “Captain Salty's in looove!”

 

Zack blushed even harder as the other children snickered and the watching adults laughed softly. It didn't help that Genesis chose that moment to add his input. The redhead clapped his leather-gloved hands slowly and sarcastically while giving Zack a smugly amused look.

 

“All hail the great Captain. It seems all it takes to defeat him is a glance from his lady love. Make a note of it, children.”

 

Zack grimaced and shot a quick glare at Genesis before an idea visibly came to him. He grinned sharply at the redhead and addressed the kids again. “How would ye little scamps like ta hear a poem from an out of work bard, eh?”

 

“Yeah!” the children cried in unison, easily agreeing simply because Zack had them wrapped around his finger.

 

Genesis' smirk faded. “Don't you even think of—“

 

“Step up then, matey!” Zack interrupted without hesitation. “Come spin a yarn or two for the wee ones!”

 

Cloud thought that if looks could kill, Zack would be little more than a pile of goo on the floor right now. Put on the spot, Genesis obviously felt he couldn't back down and he kept his murderous aqua glare on Zack as the one-eyed Soldier stepped aside for him to take his place. The children applauded as Genesis stood before them and Angeal hid a subtle smile behind his hand as the redhead began to take his “Loveless” book out from the inner pocket of his jacket.

 

“No, not that one,” Zack said. “Tell the miniscule mates a few Nursery Rhymes, lad!”

 

Still glaring at him, Genesis began to speak without hesitation. “There once was a puppy named Zack, who liked to chew plenty of fat. One day while he played, he was kicked by a maid who said; `Oh look, I've broken your back!'”

 

Zack winced and applauded with the kids. “Uh…good one, Matey.”

 

~******************************~

 

Zack made his retreat while Genesis was busy making up his next “Death to Zack” rhyme. He hurried over to Aerith and put an arm around her, ushering her away with him. She was chuckling softly as they walked at a brisk pace down the corridor and away from the Den.

 

“You're blushing,” she giggled.

 

Zack stopped and smiled bashfully at her. “I kind of didn't expect to look up and see you standing there. How long were you watching?”

 

“I saw most of the act,” she answered. “I thought it was really cute, Zack. The kids loved it and you play a great pirate. Don't be embarrassed.”

 

He chuckled self-consciously. “I'm used to doing it in front of the kids and their parents.” He scuffed his shoes on the floor and put his hands in his pockets. “I've just never done the act in front of a girl I like.”

 

Aerith smiled at him and stood up on her tiptoes to give him a kiss on the cheek. “You're so sweet.”

 

Zack looked at her and he knew his smile of delight took to his ears. He pulled his hands out of his pockets and took hold of hers, gazing into her eyes. “Makes me feel good to hear you say that,” he murmured. Unable to resist those pouty lips, he lowered his mouth to hers and kissed her. He meant it to be short and sweet but when she returned the pressure of his mouth and parted her lips. Zack released her hands to put his arms around her waist and hold her closer to him, easing his tongue into her mouth to caress and tease inside.

 

Aerith's fingers pushed into his hair and she made a soft sound of need in her throat that drove Zack crazy with lust. He lifted her off her feet and he probably would have lost his head and pressed her against the wall to take it further if he didn't hear footsteps approaching, reminding him that they were in a public walkway. Zack eased the young woman back to the floor and broke the kiss with difficulty, now sporting a tent in the crotch of his pants.

 

“You're hat is lopsided,” Aerith informed him in a breathless voice. Her eyes were glazed with desire and her lips were kiss swollen.

 

Zack reached up and took the pirate hat off his head. With a cheeky grin, he plopped it on top of Aerith's head and tugged it down. She looked good with her thick, honey-colored hair spilling out from under the pirate hat and down her back. She muttered a protest and straightened the hat so that it wasn't jammed down over her eyes, looking up at him blushingly.

 

“You make a good pirate queen,” Zack complimented with a wink.

 

She lowered her eyes and smiled. “Am I supposed to say `Arrr' or `Aye'?”

 

He laughed, endeared to her. “Say whatever you want, Sweetheart. It all sound like music to me.”

 

~*********************************~

 

Cloud took his leave before Genesis finished his last rhyme, not wanting to get caught in the crossfire of his rage. He hoped Zack was smart enough to make himself scarce for a couple of hours. Remembering that he still had to take his medicine, he went to the dining hall to get something to eat. Dinner had already been served before he woke up so he searched through the pantries and refrigerators, deciding at length to cook some sausage links and mashed potatoes.

 

After cooking and eating his dinner, he swallowed his pills and washed them down with a glass of milk. He frowned when he noticed the sweet taste of the antibiotic. It had been a while since he last had to take antibiotics but he remembered them being bitter on his tongue, not sweet. He shrugged it off, knowing that there were many different kinds of antibiotics out there and guessing they didn't all have the same flavor. After cleaning up his mess, he went to the barracks and retrieved his thick winter coat. He knew he'd catch hell if anyone saw him going outside but he needed a little fresh, open air before bedtime.

 

Cloud made his way to the exit and when he stepped outside, he took a deep breath of the cold night air. It felt wonderful, to be out in the open. Not that he didn't appreciate the hard work and effort that went into creating the underground haven, but Cloud had always hated enclosed places. He didn't exactly go into panic attacks but he felt uneasy when boxed in. He walked along the old mine tracks until he came to a broken wooden platform. It began to snow and Cloud smiled and tilted his head back, letting the cool flakes fall onto his upturned face. On inspiration, he climbed the old ladder to the top of the platform and surveyed the area.

 

He heard a heavy flapping sound coming from somewhere behind and above him and just as he turned around, something large landed behind him. All Cloud saw was a blur of black and silver before he backpedaled and nearly fell off the platform. A hand shot out and caught hold of his arm, steadying him before he could lose his balance. His heart was slamming against his ribcage as Cloud looked up into the emerald gaze of Sephiroth. For the first time, he saw the General's great, sweeping wing. It was raven black in color and Cloud was sure that if they were in sunlight, he'd see rainbow highlights amongst the feathers. Sephiroth looked like a dark, grim angel…terrible in his beauty.

 

“General,” Cloud breathed, trying to calm his racing pulse. Sephiroth did not look a bit pleased with him.

 

~**********************************~

 

~Strife, you little buffoon. Are you deliberately trying to catch your death of illness?~

 

Aloud, Sephiroth said; “What do you think you're doing, Private?”

 

Cloud appeared to be taken off-guard by the question. “Sir?”

 

“Out here,” Sephiroth elaborated with a sweeping gesture at the ruined village, “in the snow when you've spent most of the day in medical care for a lung infection.” He frowned with the realization that the young man spoke without any sign of nasal congestion. He pulled his left glove off and abruptly laid his hand over Cloud's forehead, ignoring the wide-eyed look the blond gave him. Feeling no evidence that the fever was returning, he took his hand away and replaced his glove.

 

“Hmm, miraculous recovery,” Sephiroth said, half to himself. “Still, you could easily relapse. Are you an idiot or just plain reckless?”

 

“I just wanted some fresh air,” Cloud answered, holding his ground despite the obvious intimidation he felt. “I wasn't going to stay out for long, sir.”

 

“Why is fresh air more important to you than your well-being?” Sephiroth crossed his arms over his chest and gazed down at the smaller man with interest. He found himself studying every angle and curve of Cloud's face, admiring his youthful good looks.

 

Cloud shrugged. “I just don't like enclosed places. It relaxes me to be out in the open, now and then.”

 

Sephiroth could relate to that. It was one of the reasons he'd made a private den out of the cave he found one day at the top of the mountain. He'd been on his way to retire there for the night when he spotted Cloud, in fact. “I see. While I can't fault you for that, you should have the wit to postpone outside excursions until your lungs have cleared.”

 

“I'm hardly coughing anymore,” Cloud protested. “I feel a lot better.”

 

Sephiroth frowned again. Strife had been very ill that morning when he collapsed in the hallway. Normal men didn't recover from such a severe attack of illness in a single day. Average people generally suffered lingering symptoms for at least a week before feeling well enough to be up and about. He scowled, his suspicions concerning Hojo's treatment on the blond returning full-force.

 

“Strife, I need you to tell me everything you remember from when Zack and I left you in the examination room to when you awoke.” Sephiroth kept his gaze locked with the blond's emphasizing the seriousness of his demand.

 

Cloud shifted nervously on his feet. “E-everything?”

 

Sephiroth nodded. “Every detail you can remember…even if it seems trivial. Be as precise as possible.”

 

The blond's fair face blossomed with color and Sephiroth felt his mouth twitch with amusement. He could guess which little “detail” Cloud was reluctant to part with but this was more important than sparing him from embarrassment.

 

“Okay,” Cloud conceded, lowering his gaze. “After you left, the professor drew some blood for tests and gave me a medical examination. He was pretty thorough about it…though I still don't know why he checked my teeth, too.”

 

“Your teeth?” Sephiroth repeated. “Not your throat?”

 

“He checked my teeth while he was checking my throat,” answered the blond. “He said they were strong and straight. I don't know why that mattered but I'm no doctor.”

 

Sephiroth kept his thoughts to himself. “Go on.”

 

“He checked my temperature, pulse, reflexes, lungs, heart…pretty much all of the standard things I would expect from a full examination. He asked me about my interest in SOLDIER and said he could test me for recruitment candidacy while we were doing the other stuff.”

 

Sephiroth felt a coldness settle around his heart. “There was a nurse I ordered to witness his treatment of you. Was she in there when this was occurring?”

 

Cloud nodded. “Yes. She assisted Professor Hojo and he showed her my blood work and asked her opinion about it. She said something about a rare genetic blueprint that I didn't understand.” He smiled a little. “Hojo told me I'd be eligible for Mako treatments, if they ever approve me.”

 

“Did he, now.” Sephiroth consciously forced the venom out of his tone, not wanting to alarm the young man. “What else did he do to treat you? Did he give you anything…unusual?”

 

Cloud shook his head slowly, his eyes distant as he concentrated on remembering. “Not that I could tell, unless you count the potency of the decongestant. My nose started clearing up right away. After he showed the nurse my blood work, she started getting really tired. I guess she was overworked? She sat down on a stool and Hojo gave me a shot of antibiotics with some kind of sedative. After that everything gets blurry. I fell asleep and I remember waking up for a little while after you and the others came in to see me.”

 

He blushed again and peeked up at Sephiroth, working his mouth as he struggled to say the rest. “I…remember attacking you, and then Zack and Aerith helped me to my bunk and put me to bed. That's it. Sir, I'm really very sorry about that.”

 

Sephiroth pressed raised a hand to his mouth to conceal the smirk that was lurking beneath the surface. He cleared his throat, regained control of his lips and shook his head. “I wouldn't call what you did `attacking' me, Strife. It was a display of rather…unexpected affection, but considering that you were under the influence of strong medication, I think we can overlook it.”

 

Cloud visibly relaxed and nodded. “Thank you, Sir. It won't happen again.”

 

Sephiroth stared at him, struck by sudden disappointment at the simple promise. It was unprofessional and childish of him to be upset by it, he knew. There were boundaries to maintain, here. Cloud was his subordinate and if they got sexually involved, rumors could fly that Sephiroth was taking advantage of his position of authority over him to coerce him. Additionally, Sephiroth's desire for the blond was far too intense. When he wanted something this badly, it was usually unhealthy for everyone involved. It didn't help that Cloud was looking at him with such admiration and gratefulness shining in his beautiful blue eyes.

 

~Do you have to look at me that way, Strife? I find it…distracting.~

 

“I think you've been out here long enough, Private.”

 

Cloud squirmed a little and gave him a soft-eyed look, probably having no clue as to what it was doing to him. “Sir, just a little while longer? I'm not ready to go in, yet.”

 

Sephiroth clenched his jaw. ~Godammit all to hell and back again…fuck…shit…~ His mind rattled on with vile curse words that the General rarely spoke aloud as his body heated up and his lust for Cloud reached unbearable heights. He watched Cloud cover his mouth on a little cough and saw his body shiver faintly. The next thing he knew, Sephiroth's wing curved out and around behind the blond to pull him close. The damned thing moved like it had a mind of its own and Sephiroth watched in fascination as Cloud stumbled and splayed his hands over his chest.

 

“You're cold,” Sephiroth stated. It was a bloody stupid thing to say. His wing was cocooning the other man protectively for warmth and his arms stole around Cloud's waist without his consent. It was like his body had completely segregated itself from his mind and was now saying: “Up Yours! We're going for it!” to its owner.

 

Cloud stared up at him with parted lips and wide eyes. After a moment, his expression changed from surprise to desire and Sephiroth knew for certain that the blond's behavior earlier that day wasn't just inspired by disorientation from the drugs. He was treated to another demonstration of Cloud's attraction to him when the blond boldly reached up, cupped the back of his head and drew his mouth down for a kiss.

 

Sephiroth held back for a moment. Their mouths were a bare inch apart and their breath fogged the air between them. “Strife,” he murmured warningly.

 

“My given name,” whispered the blond with a soft, brief kiss, “is Cloud. Won't you at least use it now, Sephiroth?”

 

Sephiroth's blood felt like molten lava in his veins. He was sure he'd melt the snow around them with the heat of his desire. “Cloud,” he said, caressing the name in a silken purr.

 

He didn't know where the blond had found the courage to initiate the kiss but his body was exceedingly thankful. He gave in and claimed his companion's mouth with his. Cloud's lips were soft, inviting and far too delectable to inspire any reason for Sephiroth to hold back. He made a low, soft sound of need in his throat and traced those lips with the tip of his tongue until they parted for him. He entered Cloud's mouth and he found the taste of him to be intoxicating. The blond allowed him to dominate the kiss but he was by no means passive. He stroked his tongue against Sephiroth's and lightly scraped his teeth over the top of it when it withdrew a bit, creating a delightful sensation that made the General lose all coherent thought.

 

In the back of his mind, what was left of Sephiroth's rational brain wondered how such a normally shy and reserved creature could turn into this bold, sensual thing he now had in his arms. Cloud's slighter frame fit so perfectly against his that it was as if he were made for him. His stiffened groin pressed against Sephiroth's thigh invitingly and his tight little ass flexed beneath the general's hands when he allowed himself the pleasure of cupping it. Sephiroth released Cloud's mouth to say…something…probably a declaration that he was going to fuck him senseless. Cloud beat him to it, though.

 

“Want you,” the blond moaned, just before putting his lips to Sephiroth's throat and kissing it feverishly, dragging his mouth down to the clavicle and lower until he was kissing and licking his chest.

 

For a moment, Sephiroth wondered where his legs went. It was like something inside of Strife had exploded or broken free. Perhaps he was simply the kind of man that needed the proverbial “green light” before expressing his passion. Sephiroth was beyond caring, now. He embraced the blond tightly and spread his wing.

 

“Hold onto me,” he advised in a husky tone.

 

Cloud obligingly clung to him, his lips still worshiping his throat as the General bunched powerful leg muscles and took to the air. He half expected the blond to panic or start feeling queasy as they gained altitude and he carried him up to his secluded den, but evidently Cloud was too consumed by his passion to become air sick. The flight was a brief one, lasting only until Sephiroth located the concealed entrance to his sanctuary. He landed on the small ledge outside the entrance and he pushed aside the snow-coated canvas and hides. He ushered Cloud in first before tucking his wing close and following behind him.

 

~***************************~

 

Cloud was a little surprised by how roomy the hidden nook was once the short tunnel opened up into it. He could stand up to his full height without his head touching the ceiling. Also surprising to him was how easily he could see in the darkness. There was a pallet of blankets, furs and pillows against the back wall and there was a large oil burning lantern designed to provide both warmth and light, sitting on the floor a few feet away from the bedding. A selection of books was stored in a small wooden bookshelf against the wall near the entrance. Cloud honestly couldn't blame Sephiroth for spending so much time here. It was two and a half times larger than the assigned bunkers inside the fort. Better still, the place had Sephiroth's scent all over it.

 

~His…scent? That's a weird thing to think.~

 

But it was true. Every breath he took through his nose resulted in a delightful whiff of the General's unique scent. It reminded Cloud a bit of new leather, with a clean musky undertone. He didn't get the chance to think about it further because Sephiroth came in and all Cloud could think of as he stared at him was: ~If this is a dream, I want to sleep forever.~ The General was a full head taller than Cloud and the top of his head brushed the ceiling. He'd drawn his wing back in and Cloud wondered about the physics that allowed it to merge with his body without a visible trace.

 

Sephiroth was embracing him suddenly and all thoughts of wings and supernatural anatomy vanished from Cloud's mind as the other man's mouth descended to his. The motions of Sephiroth's mouth were demanding and insistent as it moved against his. Cloud's longing and desire elevated again, destroying his inhibitions and making him bold. He'd been fantasizing about this ever since he laid eyes on him. He'd even entertained fantasies of this nature before he even met Sephiroth in person, but those had been based purely on his admiration for the man and the image he'd painted of him in his mind. The reality was so much better and now, Cloud wanted him for reasons that had nothing to do with his rank and accomplishments.

 

Sephiroth's tongue pushed passed his lips and Cloud welcomed it, stroking his tongue against it seductively. He combed the fingers of one hand through the lustrous silk of Sephiroth's flowing hair, while stroking the smooth, hard expanse of his chest with the palm of his other one. Sephiroth's hands stroked his back and slid down to fondle and squeeze his bottom, pulling him tighter against him. Cloud groaned with excitement when the evidence of Sephiroth's lust pressed hard against his belly, just above his pelvis. In response to the sound, Sephiroth cupped his ass and lifted him. He carried him the short distance to the bedding and set him down on his feet again before sinking down onto the blankets and furs and urging Cloud to do the same.

 

Within moments, they were stretched out on top of the pallet together with Cloud on his back and Sephiroth lying on his side next to him, with one thigh wedged between the blond's legs. Cloud was hardly aware of what he was doing as his hands began to work at removing the General's uniform. First he got the lower buckles of Sephiroth's jacket undone and then he was helping him unfasten and remove the pauldrons. The armor pieces came off and Sephiroth deposited them at the foot of the pallet. Cloud's sweater was soon tossed on top of them and he protested when Sephiroth stopped kissing him and got up.

 

“You're shivering,” the General said. He eased his body over the blond's and searched the floor next to the lantern until he found a lighter. He opened the hatch on the lantern and lit it, bathing the interior of the den in a soft, warm glow. Task finished, he shut the hatch and returned to Cloud's side. His intense gaze roamed the blond for a moment before he removed his gloves, tossed them on top of the pile of clothes and armor and ran his hands over Cloud's chest and stomach. Cloud reached up and resumed his task of removing Sephiroth's jacket as the other man familiarized himself with his body. He gasped softly with pleasure as Sephiroth fondled his nipples, his back arching as the surprisingly intense sensation zipped through his body.

 

“Mmm, sensitive,” Sephiroth murmured with a pleased, lascivious smirk.

 

He took advantage of the discovery and lowered his mouth to Cloud's chest. The blond's breath caught as the tip of Sephiroth's tongue flicked against his right nipple. His lips closed over it and his teeth gently pinched it while his tongue stroked the taut nub. Cloud shuddered in response to the stimulation, his breath quickening shamelessly. Sephiroth's thigh brushed against his groin again and Cloud rubbed against it greedily, gasping the General's name.

 

Sephiroth ceased his attentions on Cloud's nipple when he heard the blond emit a frustrated growl and he helped him remove his jacket. After tossing the garment on top of the pile he gave Cloud another one of those sexy, rare smiles and traced his lips with his tongue before murmuring; “Patience is a virtue, Private.”

 

“Not now, it isn't,” Cloud defied, beyond the point of caring about respectful titles. Sephiroth was about to become his lover if nothing went wrong and now wasn't the time to fall back on formal dialog. He raked the taller man with lusty eyes, entranced by the sight of him. The only thing covering Sephiroth's chest and stomach now were the crisscrossed straps over his chest and the accompanying leather armor piece that protected his stomach.

 

At a loss for words, Cloud began unbuckling the harness to expose his companion's upper body completely, while Sephiroth brushed his hair over one shoulder and began to kiss and suck at Cloud's throat. His lips felt amazing as they caressed and sucked at his skin and Cloud again wondered why his senses were so amplified. Maybe the intensity of his feelings had something to do with it now. With a bit of effort, he got the body armor unfastened and tossed it to the side before going to work on Sephiroth's pants. It was then that he discovered something interesting: Sephiroth's pants were designed in a way that would allow removal without requiring him to take off the mid-thigh boots first.

 

Sephiroth moved the leg that was lying between Cloud's thighs, bending it so that he could reach the buckles on his boots. He started unfastening them but Cloud stopped him by grabbing his wrist and shaking his head. Sephiroth arched an inquisitive brow and Cloud licked his lips and forced himself to express what he wanted.

 

“Leave them on…please.”

 

“Interesting,” Sephiroth purred. He stroked his hand down Cloud's abdomen, making him squirm restlessly. “You want me to keep my pants and boots on while we do this?”

 

“Just the boots.” Cloud flushed as Sephiroth gave him an intrigued look. “You can take these off without taking the boots off, can't you?” He tugged at the top buckle on the left pant leg meaningfully.

 

“Hmm, do we have a boot fetish, Cloud?” Sephiroth's voice was a sensual drone and his curving smile was wicked.

 

Cloud shrugged. “Looks like it.” He didn't spare time to acknowledge the heat in his cheeks, knowing that if he talked about it for too long he'd lose his nerve and end up flustered. He'd always been better at action than words. He began to unfasten the pants in the front and Sephiroth offered no arguments, helping the progress along by working on the side buckles. The pants were loose enough for Sephiroth to pull them down over his boots once the legs were unfastened.

 

To Cloud's surprise and delight, he discovered that Sephiroth went commando style. He swallowed and his eyes latched onto the sight of the General's impressive genitals when the pants were tossed aside. He'd suspected that Sephiroth was well-hung because of his height, build and proportions and now he had proof that he hadn't imagined the size of the bulge he'd felt pressing against him when they were making out. Sephiroth's mouth covered his again and the General began to undo his pants while Cloud dared to slip his hand down and grip the warm, thick length of his rigid erection. The blond gave the swollen organ in his hand a couple of gentle, hesitant tugs and Sephiroth rewarded him with a low purr of delight.

 

“Here,” Sephiroth said as he broke the kiss, “sit up against the pillows.”

 

He urged Cloud to sit up and the blond obeyed, his hand still gripping Sephiroth's cock as he scooted backwards until he was propped against the stack of pillows against the wall. He was forced to let go of the General's erection when Sephiroth moved away and he groaned in frustration, inspiring a smirk from the other man.

 

“You can continue your play in a moment,” promised Sephiroth. He sat back on his heels and parted Cloud's legs with his hands before guiding him to bend his knees. He gazed down at the blond for a moment, his emerald gaze roving over his body leisurely. “You're so very tempting, reclined there like that. If I had a camera, I think I'd be compelled to take a picture.”

 

Cloud lowered his gaze bashfully and licked his lips.

 

“And that only makes it harder to resist.” Sephiroth's voice roughened.

 

Cloud looked up impulsively and the expression of lust on Sephiroth's face made his heart skip a beat. He hadn't realized the other man would find the simple act of moistening his lips so arousing and he almost smiled. A tickle rose in his chest and Cloud quickly covered his mouth with his fist and turned his head to the side as he coughed to relieve it.

 

“Is it warm enough in here for you?”

 

Cloud looked at his companion and smiled at the faint concern on his sculpted face. There was something thrilling about having the great General Sephiroth looking out for his well-being. “It's much better now,” he assured him.

 

“Good.” Sephiroth nodded in satisfaction and began to unlace Cloud's combat boots. His eyes remained on Cloud's face as he deftly untied the shoes and pulled them off. The socks went next and then his long fingers were undoing the blond's pants. Cloud relaxed against the pillows and watched him, enjoying the experience of being undressed by him. He laced his hands behind his head and smiled a little shyly at Sephiroth when the green eyes flashed with desire at the action.

 

“I think I like your arms in that position, Strife,” murmured Sephiroth candidly. He drew the zipper down on the blond's fly and Cloud lifted his hips helpfully as he unbuttoned the top and began to tug the cargo pants down. When the garment crowned the pile of their clothing, Sephiroth admired him from head to toe for a moment before looming over him on his hands and knees.

 

The sight of Sephiroth in that position with those leather boots covering his legs up to the mid-thigh made Cloud's erection twitch. He started to reach for him but before he could even begin to do that, Sephiroth pushed his thighs apart and lowered his mouth to his cock. Cloud yanked one of his hands out from behind his head and brought it to his mouth, biting the fleshy part of it to muffle the ecstatic moan that arose in his throat. Sephiroth's lips sealed tightly around the girth of his length and his tongue circled the head, making Cloud tremble with pleasure. He began to suck him off rhythmically, the pull of his mouth firm and the motions of his tongue skilled. Cloud was forced to brace both of his hands on the pallet and he grabbed fistfuls of the bedding and panted.

 

“S-Sephiroth,” Cloud groaned. His companion's hands stroked his thighs as he steadily worked his mouth back and forth over his aching flesh. He hadn't had a blowjob in so long, he'd forgotten how good it felt. His hips began to flex of their own accord as the General's attentions brought him closer and closer to his peak. “Think I'm gonna come,” Cloud whined after a few moments, tossing his head. “Oh…oh Seph…aah—“

 

Sephiroth released him from his mouth but he gripped the tightening organ in his hand and jerked it off rapidly. He claimed the blond's panting mouth and fucked it with his tongue while Cloud's hips jerked and his body shuddered. Cloud moaned into the kiss and expelled his seed in quick little spurts, getting most of it on his tense abdomen. It was the hardest orgasm he'd ever had and he was a little surprised he didn't black out from it. He was whimpering softly from the intense pleasure of it and his thoughts were jumbled. He hardly noticed the other man scooping his slick release off of his stomach and he didn't have the wits to question Sephiroth when the General sat back on his heels and urged him to follow.

 

Cloud followed Sephiroth as the taller man sat back and he kissed him passionately, running his fingers through his hair as Sephiroth's hand glided sensually down his back. Cloud gasped as the other man's finger stroked against his sphincter, eliciting sensations that made him want to squirm again. Sephiroth's other hand came around and Cloud felt something slippery being smoothed over the spot. He realized it was his own seed and he understood the purpose behind it. It was the best substitute for artificial lubricant at their disposal and he didn't mind a bit. He purposely relaxed his body as Sephiroth eased a cautious finger into him and he nibbled his lips encouragingly to let him know he was all right.

 

“And here I thought you acted so virginal before,” Sephiroth breathed as he slowly pushed his finger in up to the knuckle. “Although, you're snug enough to be one.”

 

“I have a little experience,” Cloud gasped. He moaned as the General found the magic spot and began to stroke it. Just like everything else thus far, it seemed hyper sensitive and Cloud had to stop kissing Sephiroth for fear that he'd bite his lip or tongue. He panted through his teeth as the man's steady, insistent massage made his spine tingle. Knowing what was going to happen before the night was through, Cloud decided that Sephiroth would need some preparation as well to fit inside of him without too much difficulty. He scooted back enough to give himself room and he braced his hands on the pallet on either side of Sephiroth's thighs.

 

While Sephiroth exercised his entrance, Cloud lowered his mouth to his jutting arousal and slid his lips down over the head. He heard Sephiroth grunt with pleasure and he sympathized with him. It was difficult to maintain concentration with the man's long finger thrumming so nicely against his prostate but Cloud's instincts made up for his lack of wits. He loosened his throat muscles and slid his mouth down over the thick shaft, working his saliva over the silken hardness. He wanted to give the man a proper blowjob but he guessed by the uneven groan that burst from Sephiroth's lips that he couldn't afford to overdo it.

 

Sephiroth added another finger to the penetration and murmured to Cloud soothingly when he tensed and whimpered a little. Determined to have the General tonight, Cloud concentrated on opening up for him while at the same time he took the thick length of his cock down his throat until his nose was pressing against the silvery nest of hair surrounding it.

 

“Gods, Strife,” Sephiroth panted. “That's…you've surprised me again.”

 

Cloud responded by allowing the organ to slide out almost to the tip before taking it deep again. Sephiroth's fingers began to steadily pump in and out of him and Cloud felt a flush spreading over his cheekbones as the discomfort faded to pleasure. His groin stirred and began to harden again and his soft moans vibrated around the stiff flesh in his mouth. A third finger entered him and he panted through his nose and rocked back against the push of the digits eagerly. He began to bob his head, mindful not to apply too much suction and over-stimulate his companion.

 

“That's enough, Cloud,” Sephiroth insisted huskily as he eased his fingers out of the blond.

 

Cloud gave one last, lingering pull of his mouth before pulling away and straightening up. He put his hands on Sephiroth's shoulders for balance and kissed him, putting all of his need behind it. Sephiroth returned the kiss and fenced with his tongue for a moment before putting his hands on his hips and silently guiding him to turn around. Within moments, Cloud was positioned on his hands and knees and he craned his neck to look back at the other man invitingly as Sephiroth positioned himself behind him and cupped his hips. His eyes flashed as they met the blond's and he rubbed his ass possessively.

 

“I should warn you now,” Sephiroth purred, “Once we do this, you're mine. Understood?”

 

Cloud smirked. “Of course, Sir.” Strange at it was, the General's acquisitive words made him feel powerful. If he inspired jealous feelings in a man like him, it meant he was doing something right and he knew that Sephiroth was as much his as the other way around, now. “I'm waiting.”

 

The last comment made Sephiroth chuckle. “Demanding little blond.”

 

He rubbed the impressive length of his cock between Cloud's cheeks, making him wriggle greedily. Cloud had never been with such a well-endowed partner before and he was taken off-guard by how much the action turned him on. He whimpered with need before he could stop himself and he bit his lip and looked back at Sephiroth with pleading blue eyes, not trusting himself to speak. The plaintive look must have gotten to Sephiroth because he swore softly and bowed over Cloud, cupping his jaw with one hand to hold him steady for an aggressive kiss. His other hand moved off of the blond's ass and Cloud felt the knob of his sex pressing against him.

 

Cloud groaned heavily as Sephiroth drove his length into his body slowly, easing it past the ring a little bit at a time before withdrawing to the tip and pushing in again. At first, he thought he wouldn't be able to take it. Despite his best efforts to relax for Sephiroth, his body was resisting the invasion of his thick girth. Sephiroth was patient with him and he released his jaw to slide his hand over his throat and down his chest. He stroked Cloud's body with practiced care, easing tense muscles and caressing the sensitive skin. He pulled his hand away to change its position, coming up underneath to stroke his belly.

 

Cloud sighed against the General's lips as the pressure eased up a bit and the hardened flesh slid a little deeper inside of him. Sephiroth began to thrust shallowly, giving Cloud's body a chance to adjust to his size and shape. Grateful for the care he was taking, Cloud murmured his name breathlessly and bowed his head, biting his lip as the little thrusts gradually pushed deeper. His body sang with the pleasure of it and the cap of his erection was slick with precum when Sephiroth gripped the shaft and stroked the tip.

 

Cloud was just starting to get used to the feel of his companion inside of him when Sephiroth withdrew completely. The blond's eyes popped open and he shot an offended look over his shoulder at the other man. Before he could open his mouth to ask what the hell was going on, Sephiroth embraced him and deftly flipped him onto his back. Cloud blinked up at the General in astonishment as Sephiroth grasped his legs by the back of the knees and guided them apart and back, until Cloud's knees were almost touching the pallet. Sephiroth's eyes blazed down at him as he shifted and lined his sex up with his exposed entrance.

 

Cloud cried out as Sephiroth entered him again. The position that the other man was holding him in made it impossible for Cloud to move; all he could do was clutch at Sephiroth's hips and moan as the shallow thrusts resumed. When the resistance was almost gone, Sephiroth's motions slowed and stopped for a moment before he pushed his cock in with slow, steady deliberation. Cloud sucked in a sharp breath and moaned as it kept going deeper and deeper, until it was fully seated inside of him. He panted shallowly and stared up at his companion with glazed eyes and slack lips, stunned by the feel of his flesh so deep inside of him.

 

“Don't hesitate…to speak up if it's…too much,” Sephiroth advised breathlessly.

 

By the strained look on his face, it was difficult for him to practice so much restraint. He withdrew slowly and eased back in, again feeding Cloud's body the entire length of his cock. The blond's eyes fluttered shut and he moaned shakenly as he caressed Sephiroth's hips invitingly.

 

“I'm okay,” Cloud said when he could manage to speak again.

 

Sephiroth began to pump his hips slowly, still restraining his motions. He watched Cloud's face as he took him and the blond knew those serpentine eyes could read every expression that he made. Every deep, careful push caused the heavy organ to slide enticingly against Cloud's prostate and he put his hand to his mouth again and bit down on it to muffle his increasingly fervent moans of pleasure. When he looked up at Sephiroth again, the General was smiling oddly. There was something secretive and satisfied about that smile. Even as he groaned with his own pleasure and rocked steadily against the blond, Sephiroth watched Cloud's face.

 

Before Cloud could even think of questioning the man over why he seemed so pleased, Sephiroth withdrew from his body again and released his legs. He urged Cloud onto his stomach and Cloud went along with it, throbbing all over with lust and need. Sephiroth's hands grasped his hips and guided him to lift his ass. When the blond complied, Sephiroth took one of the stray pillows and positioned it under his hips to elevate them. One of his hands stroked Cloud's back as he positioned himself again with the other one.

 

This time when he entered him, he used more force. Cloud's breath exploded from his lungs with a ragged cry as Sephiroth's hard length thrust deeply into him. His hair tickled Cloud's back as he resumed taking him, thrusting more rapidly than before. Cloud found himself groaning encouragement to the other man and he rolled his hips in synch with Sephiroth's motions. His weight shifted on top of the blond and pinned him down as he pumped steadily back and forth inside of him. His breath was hot against his ear and Cloud turned his head for a kiss. Their mouths met and their tongues danced together as the couple strove to please themselves and each other.

 

Sephiroth began to take him even harder and Cloud had to break the kiss, again fearing he'd bite him if he kept his mouth in contact with his. He pulled one of the pillows away from the wall and propped it under his chin, biting down on it instinctively. Sephiroth growled in his ear, apparently turned on by the sight of him doing it.

 

“I knew,” panted the General, “you'd be a pillow-biter, Strife.” His hands reached out and grasped Cloud's wrists, holding him down as he drove his hips sharply, shoving his dick against the blond's internal gland almost rudely. Cloud's muffled yell only seemed to excite him more and he groaned raggedly and guided Cloud's captured wrists together before the blond. He then held them there, crossed over one another, with one hand while burrowing the other under Cloud's hips.

 

Cloud wriggled desperately as Sephiroth's hand located his erection and began to stroke it. His pumping sex was making shockwaves of pleasure roll through him and the way he was holding his wrists prisoner in his strong grip gave Cloud such a thrill that his skin prickled with goose bumps. Unable to bear the sensations in silence any longer, Cloud stopped biting the pillow and expressed his pleasure with mindless enthusiasm.

 

“Fuck…ahh…ohh…god…Sephiroth! D-don't stop!” He wasn't even aware of what he was saying, until Sephiroth nuzzled his ear and said something.

 

“Shall I rinse your mouth out with soap, Cloud?” He nibbled the blond's ear, making him shudder.

 

Cloud blurted another ragged curse as Sephiroth jerked him off rapidly. If the increasingly loud groans issuing from Sephiroth's mouth were any indication, he was likewise getting close to release. Cloud bit down on the pillow again and shouted Sephiroth's name into it as he came in his stroking hand. The General murmured breathless approval and grunted, thrusting thrice more before burying his cock to the hilt and filling Cloud with his seed. He remained inside the blond for several moments afterwards, while they both caught their breath and recovered from the experience.

 

Cloud felt the softening member ease out of his body as Sephiroth released his wrists and took his weight off of him. He rolled over gingerly and he looked up at his companion as Sephiroth stretched out beside him again. The silver-haired warrior's wing was out and Cloud wondered if he'd just manifested it or if it happened during their lovemaking. Hesitantly, Cloud reached up and touched the appendage, brushing his fingertips over the sleek feathers. Sephiroth closed his eyes and his face relaxed as if in pleasure. Cloud petted the wing for a moment more before brushing a tangled lock of Sephiroth's hair away from his chest and planting a kiss there. Sephiroth scooted up and propped his back against the pillows, gesturing to Cloud.

 

“Come,” invited the General softly, his eyes roving over Cloud's nudity with leisurely admiration. “We should get some rest.” He had his booted ankles crossed over one another casually and he looked entirely too gorgeous, lying there in repose with that as his only article of clothing.

 

Cloud gladly scooted closer to him and he moved the covers around with a grimace when he realized he'd made a mess on one of them. “Sorry,” he apologized to his host. “I didn't mean to make a mess on your bedding.”

 

Sephiroth smirked and shook his head. “I'm as much at fault for that as you, Cloud. Blankets can be washed and I have plenty more piled up in here. Now, cover up and get some rest.” Cloud pulled one of the unsoiled blankets up and cuddled up to the taller man as he covered them both from the waist down with it. Sephiroth's wing curved around and the blond lay his head on his chest as the soft feathers enclosed him. Oddly, he didn't feel boxed in at all and he sighed, not minding the ache in his nether region in the slightest. He stroked Sephiroth's stomach with his fingertips and closed his eyes, feeling perfectly safe and content.

 

~***************************************~

 

-To be continued