Just to cover my bum: Please, never handle firearms without proper instruction, supervision, and eye/ear protection. "Prone" refers to a position where you shoot lying flat on your stomach with your legs spread.

Disclaimer: dood, fanfiction. Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy, and the characters and universes therein are the property of Disney and Square Enix. I receive no remuneration for this work; it is a parody and as such utilizes the Fair Use clause of the Copyright Act.

"Bring your elbow in more this time. You should brace it against your body for support," Zack instructed as Cloud shouldered his rifle once more. He guided the blond's left upper arm against his ribcage and made minor adjustments to the rest of his posture before stepping back. "Good, good, now try again. Breathe slowly, and relax."

Cloud nodded obediently before resting his cheek on the stock and leveling the sights.

"Okay, this is your last round," the black-haired man continued. "When you're ready to fire, release the safety, place your finger on the trigger, then breathe half-way out and hold your breath. Once you have the target, smoothly pull the trigger."

Two slow breaths were inhaled, and one and a half were released. The young cadet lined up and took his shot.

The SOLDIER squinted to analyze the target from where he stood, then smiled over at Cloud as the blond clicked a small button above the trigger and lowered the gun.

"Much better this time. I'm proud of you, Spike," Zack nodded, quickly sifting his fingers through the youth's hair in an affectionate gesture. "Safety on?"

Cloud double-checked. "Yes, sir."

"Great!" Zack grinned broadly, settling his hands on his hips. "I think we're done for today."

"Thank you, sir." Blushing lightly, Cloud placed the rifle on the bench before him, muzzle pointed down-range. He leaned back just slightly as his commanding officer moved closer, invading his little bubble of personal space. Not that he minded, really.

"Next time, we'll try prone," Zack whispered surreptitiously against his ear, then gave the wide-eyed teen a small wink and a wave before walking off to the next cadet, leaving Cloud with an empty weapon, a loaded mind, and a shy smile.