Yo! Back for round two, I am. Same deal as last time, folks. They're all based off of songs on my iPod. They're all Clack. Uh, for those that a strictly against OC's, be warned there are a few in here. Nothing big, just some random side characters that are insignificant. So.. enjoy. ^^

~o~x~o~

About You Now - The Sugababes - Zack & Cloud's Point of View

Can we bring yesterday back around? Cuz' I know how I feel about you now…

It still fucking hurt. No matter how hard he tried to move on, the pain never left him. He always woke with a throbbing ache, and the last thing he felt before falling asleep was his heart's agony. It would let up, going from a dagger to a dull butter knife, but it was always there. A constant reminder of all he had lost, and all he hadn't said.

A motorbike roared and went dead. The rider, a small blond stared at a large piece of rusting metal he had stopped inches in front of . His current emotion? Strife, just like his name. Yes… strife seemed to be the only thing Cloud felt lately.

"It's your fault!" He screamed suddenly, tearing off the goggles that had previously protected his eyes. They flew through the air and landed, a crack running through the lens.

"You lied to me!" Leather gloved hands fisted in tight balls. "What the hell happened?" Cloud's spiky head drooped, Mako eyes down cast. "You promised." The hero's voice cracked slightly. "You promised." He repeated. "You said everything was going to be fine." His hand twitched. There was silence for a moment as Cloud stepped closer to the sword.

"You promised me!" Cloud bellowed, his fist connecting with the blade. The earth groaned a little, and the blade tilted dangerously.

"Does this look fine to you?" Cloud voice was dangerously low again, seeping in venom. A gloved hand clamped over his sleeve and tugged, ripping the sleeve and letting it fall to the dirty cliff's edge. The strong pale arm, once flawless save for a few battle scratches was now dotted with hideous black and purple splotches. Bruises? No…

Geostigma.

The blue in Cloud's eyes faded, replaced by a sort of neon green. He clenched his fists and brought them up to his eyes, rubbing them.

"You fucking bastard!" Cloud screamed, drawing up a boot and kicking the Buster Sword with as much force as possible. The damaged metal gave way, falling and landing to the ground with a dulled clonk. Cloud stared hard at it, his breath ragged.

The green eyes glittered with insanity. "I never wanted this." He hissed, picking up the tattered weapon. Cloud's gloved fingers ran over the blade, taking in the rusted and damaged feel. Torn and broken, like his dreams…

A strangled cry escaped Cloud as he flung the sword away from him, sending it soaring hilt over blade. With a loud clatter the Buster Sword came to a halt, resting abused on the cliff a few feet away from its assaulter.

"I never wanted any of it!" His voice was rough, like his throat would clench up at any moment. "Is this what being a hero is…?" Cloud wondered darkly. Alone, in pain, resentful.

All his pain and self-loathing came spewing out, directed at one person. He couldn't pause to catch a breath, or to let his throat rest. It came out like vomit. Just when he thought his lungs would burst, Cloud's distressed rant ended with a high pitched yell. But the sword and cliff didn't react. They couldn't. In a moment he would take a breath and return to Fenrir. He would drive off and continue with his life, slowly losing himself in a sea of heroic deeds and other's deaths. But he wouldn't complain. No, because he wasn't allowed to. This was the burden he had to bear as the planet's hero.

Cloud turned to leave, but instead of walking, he felt his legs give way, and a moment later his knees connecting with the rock. He realized, as he sat, hunched over, that he was trembling. Sobs slowly started to rack his body, warm tears spilling from his eyes and falling over his cheeks.

He had been sixteen. Sixteen, for Shiva's sake! Not even a man and yet he had been thrown into the fray without concern. There had been one person who had always been there… but where was he now, when Cloud needed him the most? So many times Cloud had wished for a way to redo. Pick a different straw, start over. But no. For the rest of his life horrifying events had been scalded into his brain, forever there to torment him.

"W-Why did you have to go?" Cloud choked out, a gloved palm burying into his eyes. For a moment the Mako seemed to disappear completely, leaving the irises the purest blue. "I can't do this alone…"

There was a long draw of breath as Cloud wiped his cheeks and nose "I'm so… sorry.. Zack…" Cloud hiccupped, his eyes locked on the horizon. The sun was rising, ready to give the planet life. The planet, in turn, would take away his own. Maybe it was for the better.

"I.. I loved you, Zack." Cloud sobbed softly, dragging his way towards the discarded sword. His fingers clasped around the hilt and brought the weapon close to his chest, cradling it as if it was Zack himself. "I loved you so much." Salty droplets fell onto the blade, carving new patterns into the grime. "I'm sorry I said it so late."

~o~

"Please, just let me go see him!" He was frustrated. So very frustrated. Cloud was crying. It was always hard to see him cry.

"Zack… you can't." A soft voice behind him whispered. "It's not the time, Cloud needs to do this on his own." The man, Zack, shook his spiky head at these words. "The earth do--"

"I don't give a damn about the earth!" Zack rounded on the flower girl, his eyes wild. "I don't care what it has planned for him! Look at him Aerith!" Zack's voice cracked. "Just look at how much pain he's in!"

Aerith flinched at the noise. She knew perfectly well how much pain Cloud felt. The girl brought her slender arms up to her stomach, and looked down at them. "I know, Zack." Aerith spoke softly, stepping closer to the ex-SOLDIER. "But what do you expect me to do?"

Zack shied away from the girl, running his fingers through his hair. "Send me to him! Let me hold him!" Zack shouted hysterically, as if allowing a departed soul to become visible to the living was the easiest thing in the world. "For Pete's sake! He needs me, Aerith." Zack frantically gestured about, tears of frustration brimming in his eyes.

"I know, dear, I know…" Aerith cooed, wiping her own eyes. He didn't understand. She wanted to comfort Cloud was much as Zack did, but that earth had it all planned. She couldn't go against the earth. "But I can't. Not yet.." Aerith reached out and took his hand. "Please, be patient…"

For a moment, Zack seemed to relax. Maybe Aerith was right. Cloud could still get through it, right? Still.. hearing those venom soaked words really stung. And then the sword was flung. Zack flinched.

"Why is it always so hard?" He asked, staring over the scene, watching as Cloud, his very best friend broke down.

"It's always darkest before the dawn, isn't it?" Aerith asked, her hand giving the other a squeeze. "But we ha--"

What Aerith said next was completely drowned in a cry. Zack tensed once more. It was torture. The cry was so desperate and innocent, begging him to come.

"Zack!" Aerith pleaded, but the raven haired hero was already gone.

He arrived in good time, just seconds after Cloud collapsed. Zack watched as Cloud ripped himself over the past. Every sob tugged at his heart. Maybe it was his fault. He should've been stronger. He should've been able to take out Shinra. Maybe then Cloud could've gotten better. They could've gotten through it together. Cloud would never have to know this pain.

"C-Cloud!" Zack choked out, taking a step closer to the blond. Cloud gave no sign of recognition. Of course, he probably hadn't heard him.

"Why did you have to go..?"

The question was so simple, but it made Zack's heart break. Why did he have to die? Because of a greater good? Because the earth decided to pick Cloud? Fuck you earth. Fuck you.

"I'm so sorry… Zack…"

"Don't apologize!" Zack cried, running towards Cloud, arms open. He needed to hold the boy, let him know that everything would be okay. But… no. Arms outstretched Zack fell through the boy, stumbling.

Fuck. Cloud couldn't see him, couldn't hear him, and most definitely could not feel him. Zack let out his frustration in an angry yell.

"I… I loved you, Zack."

"What?!" A lump was caught in Zack's throat.

"I loved you so much…"

No. No! This wasn't possible. Cloud. Cloud Strife. His best friend. The boy he had spent the last years of his short life fawning over… actually loved him?

Zack hurried back to the boy and tried for a second time to wrap his arms around Cloud. No luck.

"Aerith… do something… please!" Zack cried in exasperation, tears brimming his Mako eyes.

He felt no different, no atmospheric change or a magical puff of light. But he had to try. He needed to feel Cloud. Bending, Zack reached out, both hands shaking. Almost… nothing. Zack's hands slid right through Cloud's torso.

The ex-SOLDIER let out a rather strangled scream of colorful words, bringing his fist to the ground. The blond in front of him muttered something and stood, shoving the large sword back into the ground. Zack watched as Cloud picked up his discarded goggles.

"No! Cloud! No, I'm here!" Zack begged, calling after Cloud as he trudged back to Fenrir. The blond paused and turned, staring right at Zack. A look of curious disbelief. But the look was gone a moment later, and Cloud continued walking, shaking himself out of it, leaving Zack on his knees, confused, alone, and pissed beyond belief.

Aerith, who stood above them, watching in the life stream, sobbed quietly at the scene. She was so sorry… Her vision flashed to Zack, who sat hunched on the cliff. It was then, she realized that Cloud wasn't the only one who needed help and comfort. The Ancient sighed and closed her eyes. She couldn't do much, but she prayed Cloud got her message.

Cloud, driving back towards Seventh Heaven, slowed slightly as he felt a familiar scent surround him. Lilacs, like the special shampoo Zack had once used. It was such a soothing smell. Cloud's watery eyes fell closed for a moment, and when he opened them again, he saw two odd objects stuck on his dash board. A pure white feather and a yellow flower petal…

~x~x~x~

Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol - Cloud's Point of View

If I lay here, If I just lay here, would you lie with me and just forget the world?

It was a perfect night. Not a single cloud in the sky. Cloud had always liked the night sky. Back in Nibelheim one could always see the constellations. But here… well, Cloud had a hard enough time seeing the sky in general, whether filled with stars or otherwise. The infantryman sighed as he peered through the tiny window. He thought he could see the tip of the Great Dipper, but he couldn't be sure.

"Oi, Cloud, join in on the fun!" Cloud looked back into the harshly lit dorm room, to see one of his roommates (If one could call his sleeping quarters a room, that is..), Ace, holding out a pillow to the Chocobo-head. Behind Ace, Josh stood balanced on top of the bunks, his recently rainbow-striped pillow high above his head, ready for attack.

Cloud gripped the pillow, flashing a smile at Ace. "Bring it on." He smirked, and sent a knowing look up to Josh. Together they dove at Ace, successfully beating the fluff out of him. Pillow fights, as cheesy as it seemed, were one of the most fun things one could do after a day of training.

After a good deal of laughs and pillows to the face, the three infantrymen collapsed on their beds. Cloud picked his heavy head up once more, looking at his passed out companions. Ace's feet were dangling out of the bed, and Josh was snoring, a snore that often reminded Cloud of a honking goose. Sighing, Cloud flopped back down and stared up at the bland white ceiling. Gods, he was tired now…

Unfortunately for Cloud his sleep was rudely interrupted by a loud banging coming from his door. He cracked an eye open in time to see the door burst open. All three of the boys in the dark room let out loud protests.

"I had nothing to do it!?"

"Josh did it, I swear!"

"Zack?! The door wasn't locked!"

Yes, before them was indeed Zackary Fair. He looked like a bit of a giant, the way he stood over them, hands on his hips. On his cheek was a rather new X shaped scar. "Sorry, kiddies, that was more fun." He smiled brightly at the sleepy three, but Cloud caught the fact only his lips spread-- Zack's eyes remained a dull violet.

Cloud raised a pale eyebrow at Zack, silently prodding him to reveal why on Gaia he had decided to visit at… 1:45AM.

Zack nodded and proceeded to clear his throat. "Right. Cloud, you gotta come with me. Orders from the bigger guys."

"At two in the morning?"
"Yup."

"Can I get changed?"

"Nope. It's urgent."

"What?! But…"
"Spike, they didn't care when I showed up in moogle boxers, they won't care about your chocobo pants and giant t-shirt."

"…Just moogle boxers?"
"Just moogle boxers."

"Ugh! Cloud! Jus' go already!" Ace cried from under the comforter. Cloud tried to shoot a death glare at him, but the look went unnoticed.

With a string of inappropriate words muttered under his breath, Cloud reluctantly threw off the warm covers and slide down his bed's ladder. He stared with sleep filled eyes and Zack gestured to the hallway. Cloud numbly trudged out the door, yawning loudly. He heard Zack whisper a good night to his roommates, although Cloud was sure it went unnoticed, much like his death stare, as Josh's honks had already started up again, vibrating off the walls.

"Alright, so what is it I'm need f-- mmfgh." Cloud's mouth found itself invaded by a warm tongue. Zack's arms slipped around Cloud's waist, pulling him tightly against his body. Cloud stood there, frozen, surprised by the sudden action. There were infantrymen in every single room in this building, and he doubted they were all asleep. If one were to walk out of their room and see..

When his brain finally jerked awake, Cloud brought his hands up to Zack's chest, and pushed the older man away, 'Not Amused.' Written all over his face. Zack staggered slightly. "Zack, if you just dragged me out of bed because you're horny…"

"No!" Zack insisted, his voice husky. He was shaking his head, his spikes bobbing comically. "No, Cloud, please…" His hands shot towards the younger boy again, tugging him into another tight embrace. "Just… please." Lips were attacking Cloud's own, begging for entrance.

There was something about the tone of Zack's voice that left Cloud numb. It didn't sound like Zack. It sounded weak. Dumbly, he let his jaw drop, and Zack's tongue slipped in. With very careful movements, Cloud lifted his arms once more and wrapped them around Zack's neck, his fingers brushing softly against the man's new hair style. A startling realization hit Cloud as he did this. Zack was shaking horribly. The infantryman's eyes shot open, staring at Zack's face. He was crying. Zackary Fair was crying. Cloud pulled away, stunned.

"Zack… what's wrong?" Cloud stuttered, concern flooding his eyes. Zack squeezed his own eyes tighter and shook his head. Cloud's grip on him loosened. The taller man tried to force his mouth to Cloud's, but Cloud slipped a hand down to the man's chest and pushed him away. "No. Zack, please, tell me what's wrong." He raised his hand and cupped Zack's face, brushing the tears away with his thumb. Zack leaned into the touch and shuddered.

"It's… It's about Angeal, isn't it?" Cloud asked softly. That did it. Zack gave a sort of punctured cry and slumped onto his knees. Cloud dropped with him, taking the man into his arms. "Sh. Zack. It's alright…" Cloud did his best to comfort the SOLDIER, rubbing his back.

Angeal. Zack's friend, mentor, and the closest thing he had to a father in Shinra, had died. Zack had been forced to kill him.

"C'mon Zack. Angeal wouldn't want you to be like this.." Cloud mumbled softly into Zack's hair.

Zack coughed, burying his face into Cloud's shoulder. "That's the thing." His choked, squeezing Cloud's sides. "I don't know what the hell he wanted." Cloud paused. What he did mean? Angeal had cared for him, hadn't he? "I thought I knew him.. but now.." Zack's eyes widened and he shook his head. "I have no idea what to think." He stilled a sob, which morphed into a rather loud yawn.

"Maybe you should sleep.." Cloud offered, pulling the larger man to his feet. As much as he cared for Zack, he was really tired.

Zack shook his head. "Not yet. Stay with me, please Cloud?"

Cloud stared into Zack's eyes, wondering if the puppy eyes he had on were purposefully there. Sighing to himself, Cloud took one glance back at his room and then turned to Zack. "Alright." He nodded. What could one night hurt? Cloud extended a hand, allowing Zack's still trembling own to take it.

Cloud smiled softly at Zack, hoping to pry one out of Zack. Instead, the ebony haired man pulled Cloud into another hug. "Thank you Cloud."

The blond sighed and rested his spiky head against Zack's chest. "Just lead the way, yeah?"

~o~

Cloud had been expecting Zack's bed. Not this. Of course, Zack had never actually mentioned a bed. The man had said next to nothing, actually, as he lead the infantryman from the hall way, out the barracks, and if that gate meant anything, off Shinra territory completely. Despite his concerns, Cloud followed Zack along without question. After cutting through a patch of trees, Zack revealed a small clearing, and in that small clearing was a square patch, which was actually, Cloud discovered, a pile of blankets.

Zack dropped Cloud's hand and hurried over to the blanket, flopping down. He looked back at Cloud, his hand patting the area beside him. "C'mon. Lie with me, please?" Cloud was scared. Zack was so weak right now. He hadn't asked, no, the tone was begging him to lie next to him. Cloud shot next to Zack, grabbing his hand tightly.

"It'll be fi-- woah." Cloud's eyes trailed upwards to the night sky. He could see everything. It was speckled with stars and constellations. It was perfect.

"Yeah." Was all Zack could say, as he turned his own head upwards. Cloud's hand gave a squeeze and let go. Zack panicked slightly, the sudden lack of contact unwanted. But a moment later fingers were lacing through his own once more, and the SOLDIER found another blanket covering his stomach.

The duo lay quietly, hand in hand, staring up at the stars for a while. Cloud had no idea what to say, and Zack seemed to be enjoying just lying there. After a while, Cloud cuddled closer to his boyfriend, pressing his side against Zack's. Zack sniffled and picked up his head, allowing it to rest on Cloud's chest. Cloud's fingers made their way into Zack's hair, petting his head softly.

"Look." Zack spoke, moving his head to get a better look. "It's a chocobo." He raised his hand and pointed at a cluster of stars.

Cloud did look. Chocobo..? Well, he saw the stars in question, but they didn't look much like a chocobo. "Naw," Cloud shook his head slightly. "That's not a chocobo. The beak's off. It… It sorta looks like you."

Zack laughed pitifully. Scrunching up his face, Zack stared at the stars for a moment. "You're right… the beak's my scar?" Cloud gave a nod. "Alright… so if that's my face… the chocobo's ass must be yours!"

Cloud's face blanked. "Are you comparing my face to a chocobo's ass?"

"No!" Zack exclaimed, bringing his hands up before him. "Just your hair."

"…So we're in the stars?"

"Yeah! If we ever get lonely or something we'll look for the chocobo!"

"Zack?"
"Yeah, Cloud?"
"I love you."
"I love you too. So much."

~o~

Cloud wasn't sure when, but after what seemed like hours of mindless mumbles and soft touches, he had fallen asleep. It was a dreamless sleep, the kind he preferred. If he didn't dream, he didn't have to ponder in the morning. Cloud liked being in that bliss.

"Little darling, it's been a long cold lonely winter…"

What was that? Someone was singing. It was a lovely sound.

"Here comes the sun, dodododoo~"

The sun? Cloud yawned softly. He was so comfortable. But.. he wasn't on a bed. No, it was something else.

"Little darling, I feel that ice is slowly melting." Cloud blinked an eye open. It was so bright! Definitely not the barracks… With another yawn and a blink, Cloud's eyes watered and grew accustomed to the bright surroundings. Oh, that's right. He had come to this place with Zack. Cloud felt his pillow shift beneath him. His face screwed up in confusion for a moment, but melted away, replaced with a soft blush as he realized it was not a pillow, but Zack's lap.

So Zack was singing? Cloud tilted his head up, finding his lover's gentle face locked on the rising sun. He had a very soothing voice.

"Good morning." Cloud whispered, pulling himself up, now sitting on Zack's lap. He slid his hands around Zack, giving him a strong hug.

"Little darling, it seems like years since it's been clear.." Was all he sang, returning Cloud's hug. Cloud leaned against Zack's chest, watching as the sun slowly started it's journey across the sky. Somehow, Cloud knew the song had a lot more meaning than just the rising sun.

"Here comes the sun, here comes the sun…" Zack rested his chin on Cloud's shoulder, a smile of his face. "And I say~" Cloud pressed a small kiss onto Zack's cheek. "It's all right.." Zack gave Cloud a mischievous look, but continued with song. "Here comes the sun, it's all right…"

Cloud smiled brightly. When Zack had looked at him, he had seen a sparkle in those beautiful eyes that he was sure was not a reflection from the sun.

~x~x~x~

Mariella - Kate Nash - Zack's Point of View

People used to say she's as quiet as a mouse; she just doesn't make a peep…

Zack really needed to pee. He hadn't had a lot to drink, besides a glass of milk for breakfast, so he didn't understand! "Angeeaaalll," The boy moaned out loud as they walked down the brightly lit hall, his small hand lost inside Angeal's giant one.

"Pup, I told you already." Angeal looked down at Zack. "It's just nerves." The man stopped in front of a door and knocked. Zack could hear that murmurs from inside. Would they like him? He was sure they would… he hoped he was sure, at least. His grip on Angeal's hand tightened, and Angeal gave Zack a quick hair ruffle.

At last the door was swung open. Zack breathed a sigh of relief. So his teacher wasn't a fire breathing dragon! Instead, it was a very pretty young woman. She only came up to Angeal's chest, but Zack got the feeling she was not someone to cross. She had very long red hair, and Zack was pleased to notice a bit of freckles dotting over her nose.

The woman looked from Angeal to Zack. Her curious gaze brightened as realization dawned. "Oh! Hello!" Her voice was very lovely. Strong and assertive, but sweet like the sugar sticks Angeal rarely let him have. "Mr. Fair, am I right?"

Angeal let a smile crawl onto his face, and he shook his head. "No. Angeal Hewley, actually." Zack giggled silently. Mr. Fair? Angeal wasn't his dad!

The teacher's face clouded with confusion. "Hewley? But I thought his papers said F-- Reno put down that crayon now." Her eyes fell on someone in the class. There was a loud complaint from a student, but Miss Teacher rolled her eyes and turned back to the duo.

Angeal waited patiently. Zack's attention, however, was already wavering. He noticed that the teacher wore those silly sandals with pointy heels, making her taller than she really was. Angeal insisted that he would love them when he got older, but Zack still didn't see the point.

"No, there was no error." Angeal's voice brought Zack out of his mind wandering. "I'm Zack's guardian. His parents are back in Gongaga."

"Well then!" She laughed, clearly embarrassed. "I'm so sorry. I just assumed, you two look fairly alike. I'm Nessa Thropp." Zack watched as she held out her hand for Angeal, who took it and gave it a soft shake. It was a pretty name. Zack liked saying words with S in them.

Nessa had turned to Zack and bent down. (Zack thought it was simply amazing that she didn't just tumble over in those shoes.) "Hello, Zack." She smiled, her green eyes almost perfectly level with his deep blue ones.

Zack stared at her hand for a moment, before breaking into a huge grin. "Hiya, Miss Nessa." He beamed, taking it and shaking it with energy. It was decided. He liked Miss Nessa.

The woman looked as if she was about to correct him, and tell him that it was Miss Thropp, but the look faded. Zack was far too adorable for his own good. "Alright, go have a seat in that empty desk, Zack." She said, gesturing to the class. "Everyone, this is Zack Fair. He'll be your new class mate."

Zack stepped into the classroom bravely. "Hi!" He beamed, waving furiously.

The class responded with their own collection of greetings.

"And this is Mr. Hewley. He'll be here for a little while to make sure Zack is comfortable." Miss Nessa gestured to the strong man behind Zack, who nodded at the class with a light smile on his face. Once more, greetings filled the air.

After that, Zack had bounded to his desk, and spent the morning listening to Miss Nessa read. He had found out that he was sitting next to Reno, a scruffy red-head who had grown accustomed to drawing lines under his eyes with red markers. Behind him was a very pretty girl named Aerith, who had already captured Zack's heart, as Angeal would have put it. Of course, the boy in front of Zack had captured his attention, never mind his heart.

According to Reno, the boy's name was Cloud. He hadn't spoken once this year. Like his lips were glued together or something. Miss Nessa was very nice about it though, and never called on him during class. Aerith had added that Cloud never wore color, just black. Zack wondered if he was just trying to be mean by not speaking to the others, but both Aerith and Reno had said Cloud had been nice enough last year.

Despite Zack's interest in Cloud, his concern for the boy's social habits flew out the window when the bell rang, signaling recess. Zack was one of the first ones out of his seat, but when he heard Angeal say his name, he was forced to back track, watching wistfully as Reno hurried out.

"So?" Angeal asked, an eyebrow raised. He stood, leaning against the back wall.

Zack opened his mouth, but closed it again as Miss Thropp's voice filled that air. "Cloud, pack up Sweetie, you'll miss recess if you keep dilly-dallying." Zack turned, realizing she was not speaking to him, but the blond who sat in front of him. Zack watched as Cloud stood up from his desk and slowly trudged out the door. Zack turned his attention back to Angeal.

"I like it!" Zack said, giving a thumbs up to his guardian. "I met two new friends! Reno, and this girl, Aerith."

Angeal nodded. "I saw. Try to keep talking in class to a minimum, okay Pup?"

Zack bobbed his head in agreement.

"Alright. Go for recess. I'm going with Miss Thropp to meet the other teachers. After that I'm heading back to the Fire Hall, alright? I'll be back to pick you up. Be good."

"Kay! Alright, yah… Bye Angeal!" Zack was already out the door, and Angeal was sure the boy only heard half of what he had said.

Zack skipped along down the hall, his new sneakers squeaking along. Reno had told him to meet at the swings. He pushed the door to the playground, his big eyes searching the area for the swings. Instead of finding the flying seats, Zack's eyes found a rather disturbing scene.

There were three guys, three big guys, like, third grade. They stood in the shade of a tree, boxing in something, or rather, someone. As Zack ventured closer, he realized, much to his horror and rage, that it was Cloud.

"Your mother's a whore!" He heard one of them sneer at the blond. Zack didn't know what a whore was, but he did know, how ever, that it was a word that was on Angeal's banned list, that along with a female dog and Clusterfudge. (Well, not those exact words.) Zack was about to run for a teacher, but then one of the boys pushed Cloud down and kicked him. Well, it's safe to say that all of Zack's logic went out the window. He eyes darted around for something to attack with, and when they landed on a rather large stick, he wasted no time.

"Hey! You!" Zack yelled, brandishing the stick at them as he charged forward. "Leave him alone!" And with surprising speed Zack entered the fray, slapping the stick across their faces. They laughed at Zack, finding his attempt at being a hero amusing.

Until Zack ditched the stick and tackled the biggest one, clamping his sharp teeth onto his ear.

The high pitched scream that the boy gave off set the other two running. The flailing boy in Zack's mouth shoved him away and trailed after his friends, a hand covering the ear that was attacked.

Zack landed with an oomph beside Cloud. "That was fun!" Zack grinned, sitting up and looking at the blond. "You okay?"

Cloud sat up as well, albeit with a bit of a wince. He nodded, his eyes curious.

Zack scooted closer to the boy. "I know you probably already know, but I'm Zack." He held his hand out. "Who're you?" Of course, Zack already knew, but he wanted to see if Cloud would speak. When all Cloud did was blink, Zack sighed. "C'mon! How about you speak to me only? It'll be our secret!" Zack flicked on the puppy eyes. Did those work on kids the same age as himself? "Pleeeaassee?"

Cloud's eyes looked away for a moment in what Zack was sure was a thoughtful gaze. At last, they met his own again. He was going to speak! Zack grinned and nodded his head, trying to encourage the boy. Yeah.. no. Cloud shook his head, and the smile fell from Zack's face. "Oh come on! That was supposed to be where you whisper your name to me!" Zack insisted, scooting even closer to Cloud. "If you don't… I'll… I'll do something!"

Cloud raised a bruised eyebrow.

"Uhm… Heeyaw!" Zack yelled, and tackled the boy, pouncing on him. "Speak! Or I'll do something else!" The eyebrow was raised higher. Zack bit his lip. What could shock the boy enough to get him to say something? "Maybe I'll kiss you! You look like a girl you know! And I won't get cooties 'cuz you're a boy too!"

"…What?!" It was squeak, high pitched like a mouse. It could've past for a noise, but Zack read it loud and clear.

"I DID IT!" He cried happily, clasping his hands together. "I GOT YOU TO SPEAK!" Zack rolled off of Cloud after that, looking happy as a peach. "So. Your name. Tell me it." Zack said, sitting on his heels.

Cloud bit his lip, looking utterly disappointed with himself. Zack's smile slipped for a moment. Maybe he shouldn't of tricked the boy into speaking. "……Cloud." The blond whispered suddenly, looking down at his hands. "I'm Cloud."

"You spoke again! That's great Cloud!" Zack beamed. "And you'll keep talking, right? To me at least?"

"I… guess." Cloud nodded, giving Zack a light smile.

The bell went off, signaling the end of the short recess. Zack turned and looked at the door where children were starting to pile in. "Let's go, Cloudie!" He said, grabbing Cloud's scraped hand and pulling the boy off the ground. "We don't wanna be late!" And with that he slowly started to trudge back to the door, dragging Cloud along with him.

Half way to the door however, Zack suddenly stopped, causing Cloud to bump into him. "Hey Cloud?"

"..Yeah?"

Zack turned to Cloud, and hastily pressed a rather sloppy kiss onto Cloud's dirty cheek.

~x~x~x~

That's Not My Name - The Ting Tings - Cloud's Point of View

I never say anything at all, but with nothing to consider they forget my name…

C - l - o - u - d. A young cadet, no older than sixteen sat in class, hastily penning his name into the top right corner of a lined piece of paper. Cloud. An uncommon name, yes, but not particularly hard to remember. Had he been named something like Steven, or even Josh, like his barrack-mate, he could understand a new name mix ups. But no, apparently Cloud sounded like Kerry, or Cory, or some other name that started with a C or K.

"Clarence!" Cloud's eye twitched. That was a new one. Personally, Cloud was starting to think that his instructor, Brenek something or other, was doing it on purpose. During the physical portion of the class, Cloud was coolly brushed over, ignored, because of his size. He wasn't much smaller than the majority of his class, but Brenek seemed to favor those that were part bear, not chocobo.

"That's not my name…" Cloud muttered, his eyes still on his paper. Unfortunately for Cloud, the ones with brute strength on field were never the smartest in class. So Brenek let them suffer in silence, and would draw out those like Cloud. …Mostly just Cloud.

"What was that, Cookie?" Brenek's voice was a growl. Oh fuck. Cloud hadn't meant for his mutter to be heard, but having a SOLDIER for an instructor… well, very few things were missed. Cloud swallowed, his Adam's apple bobbing. What other choice did he have? Slowly, the boy placed his pen down and raised his spiky head, making eye contact. Brenek was a very large man. Far past six feet, with a broad chest. He was obscenely hairy, and had a good few scars.

Cloud was worried. He had already gotten into trouble once today, after Ace, another barrack-mate, had written 'COLONEL FROGSPAWN IS AN UTTER BAG.' On his arm while he was asleep. Unfortunately for Cloud, Colonel Frogspawn just happened to be the one waking them up. However, the worry seemed to melt when he saw the look Brenek was giving him. "That's. Not. My. Name." Cloud hissed, straightening his back. Behind him, Ace, the scrawny son of a bitch, snorted with laughter.

"That's not your name?" Brenek sneered, taking steps from the bare desk at the front of the room towards Cloud's desk. He crossed his hairy arms over his chest and bent over, his face inches away from Cloud's. "Have you ever though' that maybe I don' wanta know your name, Strife?"

Cloud's eyes narrowed even more. So the douche did know his name! Brenek sneered at him, breathing through his mouth. Cloud wanted to gag. He could smell the burrito Brenek had had for lunch.

"What sorta name is Cloud? Huh?" Brenek's face was far too close for comfort, but Cloud refused to shy away. A few rows up Cloud saw out of the corner of his eye a frantically moving figure. Josh, of course. The pudgy boy was waving his hands as if trying to tell him to give up and submit. No. Not today. Cloud was not backing down. "Was your momma a druggie, Strife? Hm? A little too high to give her son a proper name?"

Josh stopped waving and Ace stopped snickering. The entire classroom fell into a startling silence. No one talked about each other's mother like that. It just simply wasn't done. It was like an unwritten rule of the barracks. "It's a better name than Brenek." Cloud muttered, venom lining his voice. His mother was a lovely woman, thank you very much.

An odd sort of wildness flooded into Brenek. He raised one hand high, body tensing. Cloud's entire body froze. He didn't even look human anymore. He looked like a raging beast. A raging beast that was about to attack. Brenek wasn't allowed to touch a hair on his head, not within the rules anyway. But the hand was coming down… Oh gods, maybe he should've listened to Josh. Cloud's eyes squeezed shut, bracing for impact.

The impact never came. After a few panicky seconds, Cloud allowed one of his eyes to open. Brenek was still there, his hand was still raised, and he was still breathing heavily through his mouth. But, he wasn't moving, and as Cloud opened his other eye, he relaxed to find that someone's hand had wrapped itself around his wrist, restraining the palm from coming down across his cheek.

"C'mon, Brenek, you don't wanna get in trouble with the heads over a little smart mouthing, do ya?"

Who was that? He saw a mop of spiky black hair behind Brenek's large body, but that was all. It didn't look like any of the cadets in his lineup.

"Ah… Yer righ', Fair." Brenek panted, the sanity coming back into his eyes. His arm slackened and fell from the unknown savior's grasp. Brenek cleared his throat, and looked over the silent class. "Alrigh' get outta my sight. Class over, head back ta the barracks or mess hall or where ever the hell." Brenek waved a large hand to the door. " 'Cept fer you, Strife." Cloud was silently smug that Brenek had refrained from another stupid substitute name. "Jus' cuz Fair saved your ass don't mean I ain't gonna punish ya for backtalkin'."

Cloud watched as the cadets around him rose and began their slow walk out the door. Josh, the antsy boy, waited at the door, and soon Ace joined him. But Cloud shook his head at them, silently telling them to go on without him. He had somehow gotten himself into this, so he had to deal with it, right? On unsure footing the two boys at the door left, leaving Cloud alone with two others, Brenek and the man who had stopped Brenek from hitting him. The blond seemed to shrink in his desk as Brenek started to pace in front of him.

"Righ'. So.. What to do with ya." Brenek muttered, a calloused hand rubbing his chin.

"Hey, Brenek?" The other man was speaking again. Cloud looked at him, curious as to why he was still hanging around. "Think maybe I could deal out his punishment?" Oh right. The guy was a Second Class SOLDIER. Brenek had mentioned that he would be following them around and attending exercises with them, because he was supposed to be picking up tricks for when he himself got promoted and had to instruct other cadets, or something like that, Cloud hadn't paid a lot of attention. His last name was Fair, obviously, but that was about all Cloud knew.

"Hur… Maybe that'd be a good idea, Fair." Brenek looked back at the boy, nodding. " 'M kinda hungry anyway. Think ya can handle 'im on yer own?"

"Of course! Go eat, I'll make this kid sweat." The raven haired man batted his hand at Brenek, who gave a rather menacing glare at Cloud, and hobbled out of the class room, leaving the two spiky heads alone.

There was an awkward sort of pause, as Cloud stared at the desk and the SOLDIER stared at him staring at the desk. "Is he gone?" Cloud heard the man mutter, and watched out of the corner of his eye as he skipped around the desks and peered out of the door. "Coast is clear. Gods, what an ass, hey?"

Cloud looked up, confused. "…Sir?" He responded softly, staring at the man who held a Cheshire cat smile. He agreed whole-heartedly on the ass comment, but hadn't this man just been acting buddy-buddy with Brenek two seconds ago?

"Pfft. Cut the sir thing, Chocobo. Call me Zack." The black haired man hopped onto the desk in front of Cloud, spinning to face him. So his name was Zack Fair. "Right, so, what's up?"

Cloud was dumbstruck. Wasn't he supposed to be getting his punishment now or something? He rolled his eyes at the nickname. Nice, another name to be called. Well… it was better than Cookie, he would admit that. "Uhm. Sir.." Cloud couldn't pull himself out of the habit. "Shouldn't you be… giving me my punishment now?"

Zack laughed, his pearly white teeth flashing. "I don't know.." Cloud blinked. He hadn't even seen the man move, but now Zack's face was inches away from his. Cloud couldn't complain though, the boy was much easier to look at than Brenek, and he smelled of lilacs, not a grande spicy burrito from the mess hall. "Do you want a punishment, Darling?"

Cloud scowled. "Darling? What the hell am I, your girlfriend?" He snapped, crossing his arms over his chest. He hated being stuck with nicknames like that. Unfortunately, being called Sweetie and Sugar-pie was a common thing for Cloud, what with his girlish face and arsehole barrack-mates.

"Do you want to be?" Zack nearly purred, his face coming so close that their bangs brushed each others and their noses touched.

Cloud had no idea what to do. This man, Zack, was right before him, touching his nose, asking him if he wanted to be his girlfriend of all things. If this was a joke, Cloud was not amused. And yet, the blond didn't pull away or push Zack away. He would've had no trouble doing so, the SOLDIER was not pinning him or holding him in anyway at all, but… something about Zack intrigued him. "..What?"

"I said.." Zack moved his head slightly, his lips meeting Cloud's ear. "Do you want to be?"

Cloud could feel Zack's warm breath on his ear, the way it rustled his hair ever so slightly. A blush crept onto his face. His pants were starting to feel tight. He barely knew this man. And.. no! This was not happening! Shakily, Cloud held out a hand and pushed against Zack's chest softly, sending the man just a step away. "Sir, my punishment?" He insisted, refraining from making eye contact.

The older man chuckled. "Alright, Alright. I get it." Oh thank heavens. "Meet me in my quarters after you get some food in you." He nodded, slowly heading towards the door. "You know where the SOLDIER area is, right? I'm on the second floor, first door you see." Zack reached the door, and shot a wink at Cloud. "Come in something… more casual. Later, Spiky." And the man was gone, leaving Cloud alone, red in the face and tight in the pants.

Oh gods. This was going to be… interesting.

~x~Fin~x~

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