<Sanosuke> It was noon at the slave markets.

<Gabriel> Cloud walks amongs the aisles of the market, not really quite sure what he's looking for

<Sanosuke> There were all sorts of slaves in cages or on chains.

<Gabriel> Cloud looks them all over, but decides they're all too homely... so he heads to where the more exotic, and often more violent slaves from other worlds are sold at

<Sanosuke> They were more pretty over there... though some of them were shying away, as if scared.

<Gabriel> Cloud walks along ... eyeing the slaves... poking and prodding at a few... checking teeth here and more private things there

<Sanosuke> The slaves he did that too coward even more.. but there was one at the end who was tied up that had a great deal of beauty and pride attached to his pose.

<Gabriel> Cloud comes to the end, and looks at the almost perfect being before him "Now this is more like it... "

<Sanosuke> The silver-haired slave turned his aqua eyes on Cloud, defiance showing in them.

<Gabriel> "Theres something I havent seen in a long time... " Cloud muses and reaches out to touch the Slave

<Sanosuke> The slave tried to move back.

<Gabriel> "Wheres your defiance now? Can you even speak ?"

<Sanosuke> The slave just growled softly.

<Gabriel> "I suppose not... " Cloud muses as he calls over the seller

<Sanosuke> "Yes?" The seller asks, walking to him.

<Gabriel> "how much for this one?"

<Sanosuke> "How much you willing to pay? He's completely untrained... so that lowers his price... but he's healthy and very good looking so that adds."

<Gabriel> "I'll pay just about anything.... do you deliver?"

<Sanosuke> "Sure. Where too."

<Gabriel> "The royal retreat..."

<Sanosuke> "Yes sir! Any price is good then."

<Gabriel> "Fine... here" Cloud says and gives him a bag... sure that that is plenty for the slave

<Sanosuke> The man takes the bag and glows. "We'll deliver him right away."

<Gabriel> "thank you... " Cloud says and heads off for his carriage... pleased with his purchase

<Sanosuke> His new slave was brought to his home promptly.

<Gabriel> Cloud grins at the slave who stands before him.... and shoos his servants away

<Sanosuke> The slave was still tied with his hands behind his back.

<Gabriel> Cloud moves up to him and traces a finger over the slaves amazing chest "Well... now that I have you ... I get to train you...

<Sanosuke> The slave turned his head.

<Sanosuke> All he wore was a loin cloth.

<Gabriel> Cloud flicks the loin cloth off of him neatly

<Gabriel> "first thing... you dont get to wear clothes unless I want you to"

<Sanosuke> The slave grimaced.. and his impressive size was reviled.

<Gabriel> Cloud gives him a quick squeeze then moves around behind him to cut his hands free "dont try anything stupid"

<Sanosuke> He brought his arms to the front and rubbed his wrists.

<Gabriel> "You dont approve I suppose?" Cloud says, still marveling at the slave's beauty

<Sanosuke> The slave still refused to speak.

<Gabriel> "Do you have a name? Or will I have to give you one?" Cloud muses, and steps off a few paces, turning his back on the slave to rummage through a chest of drawers

<Sanosuke> The slave turned his back on Cloud, a very disrespectful thing to do

<Gabriel> When cloud turns around holding a small leather bag, he frowns at the Slave's back

<Sanosuke> The back and the very long silver hair.

<Gabriel> "Oh... you are going to be fun to break my lovely..." Cloud purrs... and moves to tangle his fingers in the beautiful hair

<Sanosuke> The slave snorted, as if to say I'm not gonna break.

<Gabriel> Cloud grins widely and moves to the front of the slave. "Now... as a slave I have to mark you as mine, and since I dont like to mar my beauties too much, this is what you'll be wearing" He says and holds up a small

<Gabriel> ring with his personal crest on it

<Sanosuke> The slave turned his eyes on it.

<Gabriel> "Well I can see you understand me... or at least my intentions..." Cloud says with a sly grin "It might hurt a little..."

<Sanosuke> The slave raised his eyebrows.

<Gabriel> "I'll be nice and numb it up..." cloud says and gets out a tube of cream

<Sanosuke> "......" The slave dropped his hands to his sides.

<Gabriel> Cloud daubs some of the cream onto one of his slave's nipples... humming to himself

<Sanosuke> The slave growled, relizing what Cloud was up to.

<Gabriel> "Dont you growl at me.. it wont hurt a bit... " Cloud says... and pinches the nipple to harden it

<Sanosuke> The slave tried to back up, still not saying anything more then grunts and growls.

<Gabriel> "Behave... " cloud says very commandingly "It'll hurt more if I mess it up"

<Sanosuke> He growled, obvously not liking the idea.

<Gabriel> "Oh shush... " Cloud mutters and takes a sharp needle out

<Sanosuke> The slave become silent.

<Gabriel> Cloud skillfully pinches the nipple between two fingers and thrusts the needle through

<Sanosuke> The slave grunted, a little blood dripping from the wound.

<Gabriel> Cloud threads the ring through the hole and clips it closed, locking it in place. Then daubs at it with some antiseptic

<Gabriel> "see... wasnt too bad"

<Sanosuke> "Hmph..." The slave turned from him again, folding his arms once more.

<Gabriel> Cloud traces a finger down his back "you are quite beautiful.. makes me wonder why you hadnt sold first thing at the market...."

<Sanosuke> The utter defiance of the slave might have been the reason.

<Gabriel> "You wont be as defiant in bed I hope........ I need to have some escape from the monotony of my ... wife...."

<Gabriel> Cloud says the last word with a definately noticeable distaste

<Sanosuke> The slave shiverd a little.

<Gabriel> Cloud caresses the Slave's back and purrs "yes.. I think you will provide a distraction... and I can think about you when... forced to ... breed like a dog"

<Sanosuke> The slave did not seem to like the touching.

<Gabriel> Cloud slips his arms around the slave's waist... pretty self confident in his ability to handle the man

<Sanosuke> The slave didn't move, but he did fume.

<Gabriel> Cloud closes his eyes and slides his hands up the man's chest, careful not to brush the ring he just set

<Sanosuke> eventually Cloud heard a sigh from his slave.

<Gabriel> "Is that a sigh of resignation I heard?"

<Sanosuke> The slave shook his head.

<Gabriel> "What then... you understand me... speak"

<Sanosuke> The slave shook his head again, seeming to still not want to talk.

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs and walks over to his bed... sitting on it and getting a thoughtful look

<Sanosuke> The slave gazed at him with a frown.

<Gabriel> "You are my first personal slave... a means of escape from what I am forced to do"

<Sanosuke> The slave looked away and shook his head in disaproval.

<Gabriel> "And i see that you dont approve... "

<Sanosuke> The slave nodded.

<Gabriel> "Not into men....... or just the ownership part?"

<Sanosuke> The slave held up his hand, then two fingers, and put down the first finger to indicate the second bit.

<Gabriel> Cloud swings his legs "If youre not into being a slave.... why'd you let yourself get caught?"

<Sanosuke> "Hmph..." His face filled with anger.

<Gabriel> "And you were in the exotics section... are you from this world?"

<Sanosuke> The slave looked down and shrugged his shoulders.

<Gabriel> "Well I wont treat you like a slave.. if you behave..."

<Sanosuke> He looked back at Cloud and cocked an eyebrow.

<Gabriel> "I bought you because I need company... of the non female kind.."

<Sanosuke> The slave nodded.

<Gabriel> "Ive been married for.. about a year now and havent been able to.... provide offspring.."

<Sanosuke> The slave cocked his head as if to ask why.

<Gabriel> "I... maybe theres something wrong with me... I start off fine... but... I cant... finish the job..."

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs... wondering why he is confiding in a slave

<Sanosuke> Of course, the slave seemed to be mute...

<Gabriel> "Im going to lose my position as crown prince... if I cant do it.. they will name my little brother sucessor..."

<Sanosuke> The slave cocked his head again.

<Gabriel> "And if that happens I'll be little more than that brat's slave.."

<Gabriel> "A useless dud....... probably named diplomat to some savages in some godforsaken world..."

<Sanosuke> The slave shrugged.

<Gabriel> "Oh dont shrug at me... its important.."

<Sanosuke> The slave rolled his eyes.

<Gabriel> "But I suppose you wouldnt know.. youre just a slave..."

<Sanosuke> He snorted and turnd away from Cloud againm.

<Gabriel> "What are you if you arent a slave then?"

<Sanosuke> He growled some deep in his throat.

<Gabriel> "prince of the savages?"

<Sanosuke> He growled again, shaking his head.

<Gabriel> "You are mute I suppose?"

<Sanosuke> The slave sighed and hung his head.

<Gabriel> Cloud gets up and moves over to him, tracing a finger along the slave's cheek "If you help me I will let you go... is this a deal?"

<Sanosuke> The slave turned to him and cocked and eyebrow, not understanding.

<Gabriel> "Let me practice lovemaking on you..:

<Sanosuke> The slave sighed and eventually sat down on the bed.

<Gabriel> Cloud moves over and kisses the slave

<Sanosuke> The slave didn't push him away this time.

<Gabriel> Cloud runs his hands over the man's body, then pauses for a moment to slide his own clothes off

<Sanosuke> The man's body was so smooth and he was so beautiful.

<Gabriel> "I shouldnt.. maybe you have someone....... you belong to in here already" Cloud says after a moment, tapping the slave over the heart

<Sanosuke> The slave looked up, then down, frowned, and shook his head slowly, closing his eyes.

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles and kisses the man again, enjoying the feel of a man beneath him instead of a woman

<Sanosuke> The man feel back against the bed to let Cloud ontop of him.

<Gabriel> Cloud kisses down his chest, making an odd purring sound as his lips explore the smooth planes

<Sanosuke> The man just lay there, his body twitching.

<Gabriel> Cloud slides back up and nuzzles at his slave's neck, his hands moving down to knead the man's cock

<Sanosuke> The cock was very responcive and hardened quickly under the touch of the prince.

<Gabriel> Cloud rubs his own cock against it.. and feels the pleasant tightness of an Erection grow in his groin

<Sanosuke> The man's body was hot against his.

<Gabriel> Cloud purrs and reaches out to grab a pot of scented grease from under the pillow

<Sanosuke> The man still had his eyes closed and he pulled his arms up over his head away from Cloud.

<Gabriel> "Dont wanna touch me?" cloud says almost sadly

<Sanosuke> The man nodded.

<Gabriel> "Okay....... I ...... understand I guess......."

<Sanosuke> The man kept his eyes shut. it was clear he didn't want to be there.

<Gabriel> Cloud sits up...... and looks at him "i cant do this...... Im doomed......."

<Sanosuke> The man slowly opened his eyes and sat up.

<Gabriel> Cloud curls up on his side at the foot of the bed, dragging his shirt over himself'

<Sanosuke> The man got off the bed.

<Gabriel> Cloud sniffles "Go head and leave if you want...... take the ring off and go..."

<Sanosuke> The man looked at him, then then ring, then the door. and frowned.'

<Gabriel> "Youre pretty...... and at least I got to look....... perhaps I can pretend she's you.. or something..."

<Sanosuke> The man sighed again.

<Gabriel> "If you need clothes... take some of mine.... they may be a little tight... but..."

<Sanosuke> The silver-haired slave shook his head and sat back down on the bed

<Gabriel> "Go... please.... dont make me regret anymore......"

<Sanosuke> The slave looked away. then it hit Cloud that the slave had no where to go.

<Gabriel> Cloud pulls his shirt on and sits up....... rubbing his nose "Well...... I can give you work to do... if you need a place to stay"

<Sanosuke> The slave looked to him again.

<Gabriel> Can you spell out your name so I can know what to call you"?

<Sanosuke> The slave nodded.

<Gabriel> Cloud gets up and goes over to his desk, bringing back an ink pen and pad of paper

<Sanosuke> The slave took them and started to write

<Gabriel> Cloud watches quietly....... thinking about what to do next

<Sanosuke> the slave wrote that his name was Sephiroth

<Gabriel> "Sephiroth, thats an unusual name....... but a pretty one" Cloud says after examining the man's penmanship for a moment

<Sanosuke> The man nodded.

<Gabriel> "My name is cloud....... not that you can.. call me that....... "

<Sanosuke> He nodded again and looked at the paper.

<Gabriel> "Did you have an accident....... born that way or something?"

<Sanosuke> He wrote about a spell.

<Gabriel> "A spell... did you do something bad?":

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth shook his head and sighed.

<Gabriel> "So... why.. or is that something you cant say?"

<Sanosuke> 'Can't talk about..' He wrote.

<Gabriel> "Okay..." Cloud says, then reaches out to remove the slave ring from Sephiroth

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth sat there, as if not sure what to do next.

<Gabriel> "I'll give you quarters... and... you can do housework for me... as long as you need to stay:

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded slowly.

<Gabriel> "My wife is coming here.. in a few days.. so I suppose you can help the others clean this place up for her... especially the gardens..."

<Sanosuke> 'How?' Sephiroth wrote.

<Gabriel> "Well... weeding, pruning... cleaning .. everything... can you cook perhaps?"

<Sanosuke> 'I can cook...

<Sanosuke> '

<Gabriel> "wonderful... I'll show you to the kitchens.. once I get myself calmed down.. a little..." Cloud murmurs... and waves his hand to indicate his still somewhat bulging self

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded and looked down at his own.

<Gabriel> "Sorry..... about that...... you can go into the bathroom and take care of yourself..... if you like"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth just frowned but he got up and moved off to the bathroom.

<Gabriel> Cloud watches him then sprawls back on his bed

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth closed the door but seemed to be crying.

<Gabriel> "Damn myself... " Cloud mutters and pulls a pillow over his head

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth came out after a while and looked at Cloud.

<Gabriel> Cloud is just sorta staring at the canopy over his bed...

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth made a gesuture.

<Gabriel> "Hmm?"

<Sanosuke> He looked around for the pen and paper.

<Gabriel> Cloud slides it across the bed from where it was resting by the pillow

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth picked it up and wrote 'What do I do now?'

<Gabriel> Cloud pulls his clothing back on and sits up "Follow me..."

<Sanosuke> He nodded and followed Cloud, writing, 'I am a good cook.'

<Gabriel> "Good... perhaps you can distract my wife with food... "

<Sanosuke> 'what does she like?'

<Gabriel> Cloud takes him to the lower level of the mansion and shows him a cozy, yet simply furnished room "Here... you may sleep here"

<Sanosuke> 'thank you.'

<Gabriel> "She likes just about anything. surprise her..."

<Gabriel> "Me... Im going to try and make every excuse to not be here.."

<Sanosuke> 'like what?' Sephiroth looked at him.,

<Gabriel> "Going out hunting.. I suppose.. she likes game meat so It will keep her quiet"

<Sanosuke> 'I see... what sort?'

<Gabriel> "She prefers small game... but I enjoy hunting the larger things... wild boar especially... such a dangerous creature "

<Gabriel> "come this way.. we'll get you some clothes" Cloud says... and leads him to a storeroom

<Sanosuke> 'good to cook.' Sephiroth followed him and looked around the storeroom.

<Gabriel> Cloud fishes some clothes out of various bins... estimating Sephiroth's size expertly...

<Sanosuke> 'I can sew...' He wrote.

<Gabriel> "Well.. I have some cloth down here.. if you'd like to take some for yourself... mostly girly stuff though" Cloud says... and points at some bolts of cloth wrapped in paper

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth walked over to the cloth and lay his hands on it.

<Gabriel> "take your pick.. or you can come back later and select what you like"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded and picked a few things he wanted.

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles then leads him to the kitchens, instructing an oddly reptilian slave to take Sephiroth's things to his room

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked at the slave and cocked his head as if he had never seen such a thing before.

<Gabriel> Cloud waits for the slave to leave "Thats an edar... reptillain, and quite loyal slave, only problem is they're not too bright"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded, clear where he came from there was no such thing.

<Gabriel> "They are from another world, one that was opened up just recently..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked over the kitchen as he nodded again.

<Gabriel> "cold rooms are that way, dry storage there, and you can see the rest"

<Sanosuke> He ran his fingers down across the counters.

<Gabriel> "Its a nice kitchen, dont you think?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded and grinned at the lack of dust.

<Gabriel> "I would like to learn to cook some day... I dont think thats below me... like my father does"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth turned to him and gestured to him, then himself, then all around.

<Gabriel> "You have complete control of this area... it's yours if you like... "

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth shook his head and took up the pad. 'I can teach you if you like.'

<Gabriel> "Thank you

<Sanosuke> He smiled and looked for some pots.

<Gabriel> "I will tell my slaves to obey you... unless you do not wish that"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth blinked at him.

<Gabriel> "Some like to come to terms with them on thier own.. anyway.. shall I leave you alone while I make preparations to receive.... her..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth returned to looking at the pots and set about preparing the area.

<Gabriel> Cloud heads off to do some bookwork, mostly balancing the estate's accounts and having slaves tend to the gardens and house

<Sanosuke> The smell of good food came drifting by.

<Gabriel> 'My.... It smells like he was telling the truth about being able to cook...." Cloud says to himself... as he jots down a few more numbers

<Sanosuke> The smell soon drove him wild.

<Gabriel> Cloud stands and stretches, deciding he must find out what is being prepared in the kitchen

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth had prepaired something that he couldn't id but smelled very very good.

<Gabriel> Cloud pokes his head into the kitchen, almost giddy with the wonderful smells that are coming out of there

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth turned and looked at him.

<Gabriel> "That smells so good... " Cloud says, moving over to the silver haired man

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth gestured to him and gave him something to eat with.

<Gabriel> Cloud makes a face..... and considers calling upon his food taster, but.. the smell quickly overrides his fear and he digs in

<Sanosuke> It tastes as wonderful as it smells.

<Gabriel> "This... is soo good.... what is it?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth wrote some name Cloud had never heard before on a paper.

<Gabriel> "Umm... should I ask?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth shrugged. He went about cleaning the pots.

<Gabriel> "It is marvelous anyway... thank you"

<Sanosuke> The silver-haired slave smiled again and continued his cleaning.

<Gabriel> Cloud looks Sephiroth over and sighs to himself

<Sanosuke> Sephy had his back to him since he was washing pots.

<Gabriel> Cloud shakes his head and clenches his fists.. ignoring the want he feels

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth turned back around to look at him.

<Gabriel> "I... should return to my business..." Cloud says quietly

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded and gave him the dish with the food.

<Gabriel> Cloud takes the dish and leaves quickly... before it gets worse

<Sanosuke> Later... he found himself dreaming of that silver-haired slave.. wanting him... he looked oddly strong...

<Gabriel> Cloud shakes his head to snap himself out of the daydream... and looks at the inkblot that formed on his page

<Gabriel> "Ohh.. this is .. horrible..."

<Sanosuke> He couldn't get the slave from his mind, he had to have him.

<Gabriel> "He doesnt want me.. I cant... " Cloud says to himself.. wrapping his arms around his head

<Sanosuke> But he was property. Cloud had bought him for sex...

<Gabriel> Cloud gets up and decides to visit Sephiroth, hoping that the man will turn him down and kill the flames of passion that are licking at him

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth had finished cleaning and was working on sewing.

<Gabriel> Cloud knocks on his door "Sephiroth?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth opened the door and then returned to his work.

<Gabriel> Cloud walks in and settles down on Sephiroth's bed, wringing his hands slighty

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked at him and wrote 'what's wrong?'

<Gabriel> "I.. its... driving me mad"

<Sanosuke> 'what is?’

<Gabriel> "lust... "

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth sighed and hung his head.

<Gabriel> "Im... sorry"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth wrote, 'you don';t have to be...'

<Gabriel> "I keep daydreaming..."

<Sanosuke> 'about?'

<Gabriel> "You... "

<Sanosuke> 'and?'

<Gabriel> "Will you let... me.. so I can get it out of my head?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded slowly/.

<Gabriel> "Im.. sorry for asking.. but ... if i dont.. things are going to be terrible for me..."

<Sanosuke> He nodded and set his pen and paper aside.

<Gabriel> "Here is as good a place as any.. unless you prefer my quarters"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth climbed ont his bed.

<Gabriel> Cloud reaches out and strokes his fingers along the beautiful face "It must be both a blessing and a curse to be as beautiful as you are...."

<Sanosuke> The silver-haired slave closed his eyes and nodded to that.

<Gabriel> Cloud moves closer to him and kisses Sephiroth softly as his hands go about undressing the both of them

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth lay down on the bed naked for Cloud;.

<Gabriel> Cloud runs his hands over Sephiroth's body. and begins tasting every inch of him

<Sanosuke> The slaves body was smooth and tasted so sweet... almsot pure.

<Gabriel> Cloud kisses him deeply, his hands fumbling through his cast aside clothing for the vial of oil he brought with him

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth let himself relax a little, even if he was distant.

<Gabriel> Cloud burries his face in Sephiroth's neck as he undoes the cap to the bottle of oil

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was warm and pleasent... his skin was mostly smooth but here and there Cloud found a strange scar or two.

<Gabriel> Cloud fingers the scars as he continues to explore the object of his desires

<Sanosuke> The hair was so soft and silky under Cloud's touch... and naturally silver even though the slave was not very old at all.

<Gabriel> Cloud decides in his mind that if he wasnt a prince.... and bound by duty... that this would be the man he'd want to spend eternity with.... even though Sephiroth isnt too keen on him

<Sanosuke> Perhaps because even if someone was not in his heart now.. perhaps there was someone once he couldn't let go of.

<Gabriel> Cloud sits up and moves around Sephiroth, then begins to lavish oil onto the both of them, probing it into the silver haired man with first one finger, then two

<Sanosuke> The man couldn't help the soft moaning sound he made.

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles softly.... hoping that Sephiroth will at least enjoy it on some level

<Sanosuke> Maybe he did, but

<Sanosuke> Cloud was sure enjoying it.. the warm tight body.

<Gabriel> Cloud presses himself into Sephiroth ever so slowly... savoring the tightness and pressure that envelops him

<Sanosuke> Another moan escapped the slaves lips... it wasn't his first time that was for sure...

<Gabriel> Cloud begins to thrust with deep, even strokes.. moaning loudly as he does so

<Sanosuke> The slave moaned along with him but still just lay there, even when it was over.

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs and lays out across Sephiroth's chest, feeling quite good... but at the same time guilty

<Sanosuke> elsewhere a blonde prince was pacing about his library, hands behind his back and a scowl on his face.

<Gabriel> A slave lingers quietly outside of Rufus' range.. hoping he will be forgotten

<Sanosuke> Unfortunatly for the slave Rufus walked right by him then stopped and scowled more.

<Gabriel> The slave blinks dumbly... and puts his hands up in a submissive posture

<Sanosuke> Rufus grabbed for him.

<Gabriel> The slave doesnt bother trying to dodge the grab... as his punishment would be all the more severe

<Sanosuke> Rufus squeezed some on the slave, not in the best of moods right now.

<Gabriel> The slave makes a small sound of protest.....

<Sanosuke> 'Grr... don't make noise at me..." Rufus hissed, tossing the slave across the floor.

<Gabriel> The slave rolls and rights himself nimbly... before trying to make himself scarce... nearly bowling over a Red haired woman who had entered the room unnoticed

<Sanosuke> Rufus turned to her. "Who are you??"

<Gabriel> "thats not important... Ive seen people treat dogs better"

<Sanosuke> He humphed. "Then what are you doing in here?"

<Gabriel> "Im looking for a friend of mine.."

<Sanosuke> "In my home?"

<Gabriel> "Sources say a Royal bought him..."

<Sanosuke> "Ohh... a slave I see... well, I havn't bought any new slaves for a while."

<Gabriel> "You probably shouldnt either" The woman says... looking at the condition of the slave thats trying to use her as cover

<Sanosuke> "Bah.. he's the only one I do that too... it's how my father used to treat me..."

<Gabriel> "oh so that makes it right for you to treat him that way huh? If I had more time I'd teach you a lesson... but I have to find my friend"

<Sanosuke> "And you don't even tell me what your friend looks like..."

<Gabriel> "He's tall... and his hair is silver... drop dead gorgeous"

<Sanosuke> Rufus suddenly grinned. "Ohhhh. I heard about THAT one..."

<Gabriel> "Oh... then tell me where he is" the woman says.. patting the slave at her feet on the head

<Sanosuke> "He was sold as a sex slave to the other prince..."

<Gabriel> "The other prince.. okay.. where is he?"

<Sanosuke> "And what will you do once you find your.. friend?"

<Gabriel> "take him home to where he is needed'

<Sanosuke> "And to the one who bought him?"

<Gabriel> "All depends on how he reacts... "

<Sanosuke> "I see. Well, I can take you there tomorrow when he's hosting a party of sorts for his.. wife."

<Gabriel> "ahh... and he needs a sex slave why?"

<Sanosuke> "He's not all that fond of girls... he's married cause he has to father an heir or I become next in line for the throne."

<Gabriel> "ohh..."

<Sanosuke> "You can stay here tonight."

<Gabriel> "Very good then..."

<Sanosuke> "The slave at your feet will show you where you can sleep."

<Gabriel> "I suppose I should introduce myself then..."

<Sanosuke> "Yes, I suppose so."

<Gabriel> "My name is Lina.. Lina Inverse... where I come from isnt important"

<Sanosuke> "My name's Rufus, and I don't think I care where you come from, just that you're here."

<Gabriel> "Uh huh... "

<Sanosuke> Rufus grinned at her.

<Gabriel> "Should I be disturbed?"

<Sanosuke> "Nah. Don't worry... rest now and tomorrow I'll take you to my brother's palace..."

<Gabriel> Lina nods and lets the slave lead her to her room

<Sanosuke> The next morning Sephiroth got up slowly.

<Gabriel> Cloud is still curled up next to him... sleeping peacefully

<Sanosuke> Seph sighed and patted Cloud's head.

<Gabriel> Cloud shifts slightly .. yawning

<Sanosuke> The slave got out of bed and started to dress slowly.

<Gabriel> Cloud sits up and stretches, smiling sleepily at Sephiroth "thank you...."

<Sanosuke> Seph nodded slowly, but he was still distant, as if he had something on his mind.

<Gabriel> Cloud picks up his clothes from the night before, and pulls them on before slipping out of the room... to head for a bath

<Sanosuke> Seph needed some time to himself. Later though he got started on the cooking.... too bad for Cloud his wife showed up early and didn't let him slip away.

<Gabriel> Cloud freezes in his tracks.. feeling very trapped... and not sure what to say

<Sanosuke> "There you are!" She hugged and kissed him, "I've missed you."

<Gabriel> "I.. Ive missed you too darling...." cloud says.. trying not to sound forced

<Sanosuke> She clung to him as her servents carried her bags. "What isss that wonderful smell coming from the kitchens??"

<Gabriel> "My new slave... cooking..... he was an excellent find...."

<Sanosuke> "Oh! How wonderful! Let's go catch up before dinner! I hear your brother's coming."

<Gabriel> "yes... " cloud says ... then mutters "unfortunately..."

<Sanosuke> She dragged him off and sat on his lap while they talked.

<Sanosuke> Eventually Sephiroth was done with the meal and laid it all out on the huge banquet table.

<Gabriel> "darling would you mind allowing me to change .. for dinner?" Cloud asks ... somewhat sheepishly

<Sanosuke> "Go right ahead." She got off his lap and watched him.

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs and somewhat timidly dresses in front of his wife

<Sanosuke> Aeris threw up her hands and went to check the food.

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs in relief and locks himself in the bathroom for a while

<Sanosuke> When he comes back out there's a bottle of his favorate wine sitting on his bed with a note from his wife about how much she missd him.

<Gabriel> "Gods... I cant love the woman... not.. really... but she is a sweetheart..."

<Sanosuke> The wine looked at the right drinking age too.

<Gabriel> "Oh well... perhaps this will help me get tonight over with... " Cloud says to himself and settles down on the bed to have himself a drink

<Sanosuke> It didn't take him long to feel dizzy... very dizzy... then pass out.

<Gabriel> Cloud is sprawled out on the bed... bottle having drained onto the floor after it tipped over

<Sanosuke> Meanwhile Rufus had pointed Lina off to find Sephy and went off to do some stuff on his own while Aeris ate.

<Gabriel> Lina taps Sephiroth on the shoulder

<Sanosuke> Seph, who was in the kitchen, spun and his eyes lit up with shock before he hugged her.

<Gabriel> "Seph... we need you back home again... "

<Sanosuke> He nodded and grinned.

<Gabriel> "First lemme try to get ridda this curse..."

<Sanosuke> He lifted his neck up for her.

<Gabriel> Lina concentrates and mutters a spell that creates a soft glow

<Sanosuke> HE closed his eyes.

<Gabriel> Lina continues muttering until suddenly a burst of power is discharged

<Sanosuke> Seph opened them and uttered, "Thanks Lina... let's get home."

<Sanosuke> The morning dew was cold on Cloud's skin.

<Gabriel> Cloud sits up and groans "Where.... the hell?"

<Sanosuke> It wasn't his world... that was all he could tell... that and there was sounds of a raid.

<Gabriel> "Ohh great... the sky's all funny..... " Cloud mutters and sinks back onto the grass... not feeling too hot

<Sanosuke> He could hear screams from just near by.

<Gabriel> "I gotta..... get outta here......... "

<Sanosuke> "Over hear..." Cloud heard a gruff voice, "I heard something..." Pounding feet in his direction.

<Gabriel> "Ohh... fuck... " Cloud squeaks... and tries to crawl away from the noise... even though his stomach feels like its going to pop out of his mouth

<Sanosuke> He heard laughder from almost over him and rough hands grabbing at him.

<Gabriel> "Leggo... " Cloud squeaks... almost throwing up as he tries to squirm off

<Sanosuke> He was being held by some sort of goblin or orc or something... in any case it was mean looking and ugly. And laughing at him.

<Gabriel> "look.. thing if you dont lemme go Im gonna puke on you..."

<Sanosuke> "He said let him go.." Came a voice from somewhere behind Cloud so he couldn't see who it belonged to.

<Sanosuke> The monsters holding him shrieked. "You!! But he told us he'd taken care of you!!"

<Gabriel> Cloud throws up anyway from being hefted around... not really caring anymore

<Sanosuke> There was laughder from the person the monsters were afraid of. "I managed to get back... now let him go."

<Sanosuke> Cloud was dropped and the monsters ran screaming in terror.

<Gabriel> Cloud sits up and grimaces.... "Ugh.. damnit.."

<Sanosuke> He was picked up again and then carried... carried away from the sounds of battle towards the sound of an encampment.

<Gabriel> "I think.. I can walk.. " cloud whimpers

<Sanosuke> "Shh... I guess it was your evil brother that left you on our world..."

<Gabriel> "Oh.. probably... ... how'd you know about him anyway?"

<Sanosuke> "Lina came to your place with him to take the curse off and get me back here." Cloud was set down.

<Gabriel> "Sephiroth?" Cloud says after his eyes focus a bit

<Sanosuke> "Yah." They walked into the encampment and everyone saluted yelling "GENERAL!"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth saluted back.

<Gabriel> "General?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth turned to him. "Yeah."

<Sanosuke> He was dressed in all black now.

<Gabriel> "Oh man... you.. I .. dont kill me......." Cloud says miserably

<Sanosuke> "I'm not gonna kill you..." Sephiroth turned to his men and sent them on their way before heading towaeds his tent.

<Gabriel> Cloud watches Sephiroth for a moment.. then follows him "You. arent gonna kill me for.. me making you a slave?"

<Sanosuke> "It wasn't you that made me a slave... it was my enemy... the one that took away my voice too so I wouldn't be able to tell anyone the truth."

<Gabriel> "You could have wrote it out... " Cloud says.. putting a hand onto his forhead and blanching slightly "Damn Rufus..."

<Sanosuke> "I doubted you'd belive me... would you have if i had writen that I was a general? I bet a million slaves have tried telling that story and only 1 has been telling the truth."

<Gabriel> "well.. most of them are too dumb to think of somethng like that.. but... i probably wouldnt have believed......... Anyway.. I have to get back!"

<Sanosuke> "The only portal out is near the grand castle.... it's the one i was sold through. My enemy got the gate open to make money off capturing then selling people as slaves to your world."

<Gabriel> "So.... that means I have little chance to get back?"

<Sanosuke> "Untill we win, maybe. Lina managed to get in and out but she's a sorceress..."

<Gabriel> "But. I have to get back... lest my brother..."

<Sanosuke> "I said we'll try... for now, it's not possible."

<Gabriel> "But....

<Sanosuke> "Cloud... we need to win this battle. If he controls this world his next step might be yours..."

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs and hangs his head "Im doomed"

<Sanosuke> "Thinking like that gets one doomed."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth picked up a very long sword and smiled as he kissed it.

<Gabriel> Cloud blanches slightly

<Sanosuke> "Something the mater?" Sephiroth turned to him.

<Gabriel> "no... just.... Im gonna die..."

<Sanosuke> "No... well, everyone dies one day... but... you know what I mean."

<Gabriel> "They'll think Im dead.... my wife will... and.."

<Sanosuke> "If we don't defeat him it won't mater."

<Gabriel> "Ohh.. why did this happen to me? "

<Sanosuke> "I don't know but that doesn't mater now. What maters is winning... and killing that son of a bitch."

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs "I... fight like a wuss"

<Sanosuke> "You don';t have to fight."

<Gabriel> "Good.. I'll hide somewhere then.. just point"

<Sanosuke> "Hide in my tent if you like..." Sephiroth walked for the exit flap.

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and pulls his knees up to his chset

<Sanosuke> Seph sighed and walked out amung his men, heading for Lina.

<Gabriel> Lina grins at Sephiroth "Whats up Seph?"

<Sanosuke> "Well, turns out that prince is a complete coward."

<Gabriel> "what'd you expect a Royal to be?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth shrugged. "All depends..." He sat down and sighed.

<Gabriel> "His brother seems like a bastard tho... "

<Sanosuke> "What sort?"

<Gabriel> "Well.. he had a little slave he beat the crap outta a few times.... "

<Sanosuke> "Evil..." Sephiroth sighed and shook his head.

<Gabriel> "And I bet that prince in your tent couldnt do a thing on his own..."

<Sanosuke> "I agree with you. I was cooking for him..."

<Gabriel> "If we cut off their slaves we could have that kingdom too..."

<Sanosuke> "I don't want their kingdom..."

<Gabriel> "I know.. I know... "

<Sanosuke> "Sounds almost like you do though..."

<Gabriel> "Nah... what would I do with it?"

<Gabriel> Lina twirls her finger in the air "I aim to open our own portals ... and seal off the one to thier world..."

<Sanosuke> "Well, stop the slave trade anyway..."

<Gabriel> "What was it like being a slave?"

<Sanosuke> "Horrible..." Sephiroth frowned.

<Gabriel> "Oh? He force ya to do stuff?"

<Sanosuke> "Only sort of..."

<Gabriel> "Only sort of Huh? What'd he do?"

<Sanosuke> "Lina.. that's private.." Sephiroth started to walk off... walk off to the hill with the tombstone on it.

<Gabriel> Lina sighs "sorry... " And lets sephiroth go off on his own

<Gabriel> Cloud pokes his head out of the tent and shivers slightly "This world is colder...."

<Sanosuke> He saw Sephiroth up on the hill.

<Gabriel> Cloud wraps his arms a round himself and goes to ask Sephiroth for something to help keep him warm

<Sanosuke> That's when he noticed Seph was standing at the grave site, looking down at the stone.

<Gabriel> "Um.. Sephiroth.... can.. I bother you?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked up suddenly then at him. his face looked very sad but quickly changed to a more busnss like expression. "What you need?"

<Gabriel> "Its.. a bit colder here....... do you have a spare coat?" Cloud asks... looking pathetic

<Sanosuke> "There are blankets in my tent. feel free to wrap up in them."

<Gabriel> "thank.. you... is this someone you knew?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth frowned and turned back to the grave. "This was.. my love. Zack..."

<Gabriel> "oh.. Im.. Im sorry..... i shouldnt have bothered... you"

<Sanosuke> "It.. it's ok..."

<Gabriel> Cloud shakes his head... "Its not okay.. I .. made you do something you probably didnt want to do..."

<Sanosuke> "I.. I know... it made me think how much I miss him..."

<Gabriel> "Im sorry... look..... if you want to take it out on my you can..."

<Sanosuke> "No... I'm not like that."

<Gabriel> "I feel guilty..... please"

<Sanosuke> "No Cloud... I'm not gonna hurt you. you gave me a choice.. remember?"

<Gabriel> "Yes.. but.... "

<Sanosuke> "No buts.. it was my choice. now go get warmed up and stay safe."

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs "what if I cant get home Sephiroth?"

<Sanosuke> "Cloud... I'll find a way to get you home..." He placed a hand on the blonde's shoulder.

<Gabriel> Cloud looks at the ground "Thank you.. you really shouldnt... though..... Im a terrible person arent I"

<Sanosuke> "Not really. You knew no other way to live. Now that you see the difference you can choose your path.":

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and sighs "I will be king.... and I will be able to change things.."

<Sanosuke> "Yah. Just keep that all in mind." Sephiroth turned back to the headstone and placed his hand on it.

<Gabriel> Cloud watches Sephiroth for a few moments more, then turns to go back to the tent

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was out there a while before he returned to the tent.

<Gabriel> Cloud is curled up in Sephiroth's bed... dozing... and wrapped in blankets

<Sanosuke> Seph walked over to his bed and looked at CLoud.

<Gabriel> The prince mumbles something and scrunches up tighter

<Sanosuke> Seph sat gently on his bed, and continued to watch Cloud.

<Gabriel> Cloud wakes up a little when Sephiroth sits on the bed and he smiles sleepily

<Sanosuke> The general patted his head.

<Gabriel> "Sorry.. I'll give you your bed back" Cloud says sleepily

<Sanosuke> "Nah, go ahead and sleep."

<Gabriel> "You sure........?"

<Sanosuke> "Yah.. sleep."

<Gabriel> Cloud rolls over and pulls the blanket s around him tighter

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth patted his head one more time before getting off the bed,

<Gabriel> Cloud drifts back to sleep... mumbling something every now and then

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth sat down in his chair and watched him sleep.

<Gabriel> Cloud mumbles softly... calling out names in his sleep... apparently he's a lonely little guy when it comes to living

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth actually felt sorry for the poor guy.

<Sanosuke> Seph fell asleep in his chair.

<Gabriel> Cloud finally settles into a deep sleep..... sucking his thumb

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth muttered Zack's name in his sleep.

<Gabriel> Cloud wakes up sometime in the night... and hears Sephiroth

<Sanosuke> "Zack.." Seph whimpered, reaching out into the air.

<Gabriel> Cloud frowns.... his guilt growing deeper

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth wrapped his arms around himself, tears coming down his face.

<Gabriel> "I made you remember.. even more than you did.... it seems"

<Sanosuke> The general suddenly woke up when he fell off his chair.

<Gabriel> Cloud looks at him..... a very sad look on his face...

<Sanosuke> "Morning Cloud." He told him.

<Gabriel> "You... were........"

<Sanosuke> "Dreaming?"

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "Calling out for ... Zack"

<Sanosuke> "I do that often..."

<Gabriel> "It... made... me feel terrible..."

<Gabriel> ". I really... shouldnt impose on you... any longer"

<Sanosuke> "No, stay..."

<Gabriel> "But... "

<Gabriel> "How can you be so kind when.. I bought you as a slave... and...."

<Sanosuke> "You were actually kind to me no mater what you said at first... I relized though a product of your world your heart wasn't truly into it."

<Gabriel> "... you think that... but...."

<Sanosuke>

<Sanosuke> "But nothing Cloud.. I already told you my choice."

<Gabriel> "I understand. I just.. cant help but feel guilty..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth patted his back. "Cheer up."

<Gabriel> "Hard to do when you wake up in another world."

<Sanosuke> "Could be worse though..."

<Gabriel> "I could have woken up dead..... "

<Sanosuke> "Basicly... yah."

<Gabriel> "thank you for saving me.... I owe you"

<Sanosuke> "It's ok. You don't need to owe me anything. yah hungry?"

<Gabriel> "yes... I am rather hungry..."

<Sanosuke> "Let;s go to the food tent then."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and gets up "I suppose you arent doing the cooking"

<Sanosuke> "yah, I will.":

<Gabriel> Cloud seems to brighten up a bit

<Sanosuke> Seph smiled and headed for the tent.

<Gabriel> Cloud follows him... rather hungry and eager to have more of Sephiroth's cooking

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took out some of the rations and started a fire to cook them on.

<Gabriel> Cloud watches Sephiroth quietly.... trying not to think too much

<Sanosuke> The general soon had a nice plate of food sitting before Cloud.

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles "Youre amazing....."

<Sanosuke> "Thanks." Sephiroth sat down and smiled.

<Gabriel> Cloud starts eating slowly... since his stomach wasnt too great feeling earlier

<Sanosuke> Sephirtoh started eating from his own plate.

<Gabriel> "This is good.... thank you"

<Sanosuke> "Welcome."

<Gabriel> Cloud finishes his food and smiles at Sephiroth, trying his best not to seem too adoring

<Sanosuke> "Zack always loved my cooking too.." The general sighed.

<Gabriel> "Im.. sorry to keep reminding you of him... how long... has it been?"

<Sanosuke> "A few months since he was killed..."

<Gabriel> "He must have been a wonderful... person... you must miss him terribly.."

<Sanosuke> "Yeah... i do... and it was my fault he died..."

<Gabriel> "How.....? Or.. does that hurt too much to talk about?"

<Sanosuke> "Serge kidnapped him and killed him when I came to save him..."

<Gabriel> "Serge.. is the one you fight against?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes..." Sephiroth frowned.

<Gabriel> "I will aid you in your battle... the best I can........ he caused your misery... and in turn... what I feel now"

<Sanosuke> "Cloud... just don;t get yourself killed.

<Sanosuke> "

<Gabriel> "Dont worry... hasnt happened yet... and if it does... we're both better off"

<Sanosuke> "No... you're not gonna die.":

<Gabriel> "I dont plan to... just saying it wouldnt matter if I did..."

<Sanosuke> "It does to me kid.."

<Gabriel> "Please... do not in any way feel responsible for me... I have to take care of myself... and its about time I learn..."

<Sanosuke>

<Sanosuke> "Yah, but I'd also be upset if you died."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods.. "alright then"

<Gabriel> "but you must promise me the same thing..."

<Sanosuke> "Good, we agree. And I do... I'm not gonna get myself killed.":

<Gabriel> "You have to teach me how to cook... Im not letting you escape that..." Cloud says with a grin

<Sanosuke> "I will, it's not that hard... and i did promise."

<Gabriel> "Thank you... I have to learn to live...

<Sanosuke> "I can teach you."

<Gabriel> "That would be kind of you"

<Sanosuke> "I am kind..."

<Gabriel> "I know... I have borne witness to it... several times"

<Sanosuke> "I'm kind and stronge..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth finished his food.

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles at Sephiroth "So... what do we do now?"

<Sanosuke> "Shall I teach you?"

<Gabriel> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth stood up.

<Gabriel> Cloud stands as well... and smiles at him "okay... "

<Sanosuke> Seph walked over to the food stores and waved him over.

<Gabriel> cloud follows him over and looks

<Sanosuke> "Now, what do you want to learn to make?" Seohiroth asked him.

<Gabriel> "anything...

<Gabriel>

<Sanosuke> "Got a favorate dish?"

<Gabriel> "I eat just about anything..."

<Sanosuke> "Well, I want to teach you to make something you enjoy.

<Gabriel> "Well... I enjoy just about everything...."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth chuckled. "What are you in the mood for right now then?"

<Gabriel> "well I just ate.. how about a dessert?"

<Sanosuke> "Sure then. What dessert?"

<Gabriel> "a pie?"

<Sanosuke> "Sure. What sort of pie?"

<Gabriel> "Do you have peaches here?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes, we do. A peach pie?"

<Gabriel> "Sure!"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth got out a can of peaches and some other items.

<Gabriel> Cloud watches Sephiroth with adoration... not bothering to hide it...

<Sanosuke> "Now... see this flower?"

<Gabriel> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> "get it wet with water and turn it into a ball after adding these eggs."

<Gabriel> Cloud watches... seemingly amazed

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth waits for Cloud to do as he instructed.

<Gabriel> Cloud mixes the stuff together... but his is a bit gluey

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth puts his hands in to help him.

<Gabriel> "Its a bit sticky..."

<Sanosuke> "Yah but one gets used to it."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "I will get used to it... I have to"

<Sanosuke> "It's fun to know how to cook too.

<Gabriel> "It seems enjoyable" Cloud says... examining his hands

<Sanosuke> "It's good for relaxing."

<Gabriel> "Thats exactly what I need..."

<Sanosuke> "Good..." Sephiroth was behind him, helping... arms to either side of Cloud as he helped with the dough.

<Gabriel> ~I think I could relax very well this way... ~ Cloud thinks to himself... mostly referring to Sephiroth being as close as he is

<Sanosuke> The general was radiating body heat after all, making it nice and warm.

<Gabriel> ~Dont swoon.. stop it... foolish... he's grieving and I am just a nuisance that will be sent back home as soon as possible~

<Sanosuke> "Now we put it in a pie pan./." Seph continued, putting one on the table.

<Gabriel> Cloud nods... forcing his mind back to the task

<Sanosuke> "Now we need to put the dough into the pie pan."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods... and pokes at the dough

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth helped him out into into the pan, their hands touching.

<Gabriel> Cloud tries his best to pay attention to the lesson and not Sephiroth's proximity

<Sanosuke> Then Sephiroth got the can of peaches open and dumped them into the pie crust they had just made.

<Gabriel> Cloud pokes at the peaches for a moment "It seems pretty easy so far... who taught you how to cook?"

<Sanosuke> "Self taught... we all had to learn by watching other people do things in order to live."

<Gabriel> "Youre amazing... everything I would want to be..."

<Sanosuke> "Thank you. I never thought I'd be so looked up to when I first begain.

<Gabriel> "People look up to me.... but.. because they have to..."

<Sanosuke> "I started with nothing... this is all I earned."

<Gabriel> "I want to learn... and be like yo u"

<Sanosuke> "Be a general?"

<Gabriel> "No.. skilled.. just... able to take care of myself.."

<Sanosuke> "Ah, that's not hard."

<Gabriel> "I need to be able to take care of myself.. whats life when you are waited on hand and foot?"

<Sanosuke> "Some people seem to enjoy it but I don't."

<Gabriel> "I.. did .. but... I see theres more now.."

<Sanosuke> "Yes, much much more out there... adventure and danger... the thigs that make one feel alive."

<Gabriel> "I want to see those things... and I will... "

<Sanosuke> "Yah, and I won't let you die."

<Gabriel> Lina peeks in the door unnoticed and shakes her head when she sees sephiroth and the pansy prince ...

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was talking to him, being friendly, and actually smiled.

<Gabriel> "He better not be falling for that kid..." she mutters to herself and heads back to her tent

<Sanosuke> Her tent flap was slightly open...

<Gabriel> Lina shakes her head again "If that serge bastard found out... it'd be another Zack..." she mutters and steps into her tent

<Sanosuke> "What did you say there Lina?" Came the voice of her least favorate univited Guest.

<Gabriel> Lina puts her hand on her forhead "To what do I owe the....... pleasure?"

<Sanosuke> "Do I really need a reason to drop by?"

<Gabriel> "I suppose not... but you always have one.."

<Sanosuke> Xellos waggled his finger at her.

<Gabriel> Lina sighs "so...."

<Sanosuke> Xellos got up from her bed which he was sitting on. "I take it you have a thing for your general?"

<Gabriel> "Perhaps a small thing.... its just we dont need another Zack ..."

<Sanosuke> "Another to be sliced up while the general watched in horror?"

<Gabriel> "well... he would be an easy catch for serge... a little pansy royal like him.."

<Sanosuke> "And just as fun to watch..."

<Gabriel> "I think its too late anyway... he was showing him how to bake a pie..."

<Sanosuke> Xellos chuckled. "Well, there is always getting him fed to the wolves..."

<Gabriel> "Seph would be heartbroken I'd think.. I just wish there was a way to toss him back into his own damned world and seal off the portal"

<Sanosuke> "Still... if you really want Sephiroth for yourself... grief is a good time to play..."

<Gabriel> "I tried when Zack died.."

<Sanosuke> "Ah but he was more attached to Zack and it was soon after that when he was captured..."

<Gabriel> "So.. youre saying if I want him I should wave the flag and let Serge know about the kid?"

<Sanosuke> "You don't need to tell Serge.. I'll go tell him."

<Gabriel> Lina frowns "But thats like betraying Sephiroth..."

<Sanosuke> "And telling Serge yourself isn't?"

<Gabriel> "It all is.. "

<Gabriel> "And how do I know Serge wouldnt kill Sephiroth this time.. instead of just punishing him.."

<Sanosuke> “Serge wants him alive... or else he wouldn't have bothered doing what he did."

<Gabriel> Lina sighs "Fine then... "

<Sanosuke> "I didn't need your permision anyway Lina..." Xellos patted her head. "He'll know wheather you said yes or no..."

<Gabriel> "You were going to tell him anyway?"

<Sanosuke> "But of course."

<Gabriel> "Why do you bother me?"

<Gabriel> Lina tries to shoo him

<Sanosuke> "Cause you're fun to pester... of all the humans I know. You should feel honored Lina.."

<Gabriel> "Hmph... go find something like a brick to pester.."

<Sanosuke> "Nah, humans are more fun. See yah later Lina." He vanished.

<Gabriel> "stupid Xellos.. the only type of spy you cant deal with..."

<Sanosuke> Meanwhile, Sephiroth was baking the pie.

<Gabriel> Cloud enjoys the delicious smells that are coming from the oven

<Sanosuke> "Pretty set on how to make a pie?" Sephiroth asked him,.

<Gabriel> "yes.. I understand.. its amazing to me...

<Sanosuke> "That you can do something?"

<Gabriel> "that... and... it takes so many different things to make something as simple as... a pie:

<Sanosuke> "Pie's arn't always simple, and there are so many different kinds of pie."

<Gabriel> "Yes... and Im sure they each have different things you have to do.... I want to learn them all... even though I'd probably get fat eating them all.."

<Sanosuke> "Maybe." Sephiroth grinned./

<Gabriel> cloud sighs.. dreams floating through his head... each pleasant and involving him not being a prince

<Sanosuke> maybe being a waderer who gets to stop and enjoy everything along the roads.

<Gabriel> Or settling down some place and using the new skills he wants to learn to earn a living

<Sanosuke> Maybe being a cook... or a painter... having to earn a living and enjoying it... with no wife to bug him.

<Gabriel> Cloud shakes his head... a stupid grin on his face ~dream on...~

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took the pie out and left it to cool./

<Gabriel> "What do you plan to do Seph.. after you send me home.. and... accomplish what you have to?"

<Sanosuke> "I don';t know yet..."

<Gabriel> "Im not sure if I want to go back..."

<Sanosuke> "Then what do you want to do?"

<Gabriel> "Live..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled. "The pie's about done."

<Gabriel> "Great... can we eat some?'

<Sanosuke> "Yep." The general got some plates out.

<Gabriel> Cloud claps his hands "I hope its good... It has to be though... you helped"

<Sanosuke> "Thanks.. but it was mostly your doing."

<Sanosuke>

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles... and gets a momentary wistful look

<Sanosuke> the plates were placed on the table.

<Gabriel> Cloud pokes at the pie experimentally

<Sanosuke> It looked ok.

<Gabriel> "well.... I'll taste it first..."

<Gabriel> Cloud takes a forkfull... and pops it in his mouth

<Sanosuke> It tasted wonderful.

<Gabriel> "wow.. " Cloud says.. and shovels the rest down quickly

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth chuckled. "All your doing Cloud."

<Gabriel> "thank you..."

<Sanosuke> "no need, you learned fast and well."

<Sanosuke> After the pie was eaten Sephiroth offered to teach Cloud anything else he wanted.

<Gabriel> "as much as you can.. before .. i have to leave"

<Sanosuke> "But what though? More cooking? Something else?"

<Gabriel> "Whatever you want.. Im not sure what else there is..."

<Sanosuke> "Sewing, fighting, all sorts of things."

<Gabriel> "Fighting... teach me how to fight!"

<Sanosuke> "Alright. Come with me." Sephiroth left the food tent and entered one full of weapons and armor.

<Gabriel> "wow... looks like my dad's collection"

<Sanosuke> "Choose a weapon."

<Gabriel> Cloud looks them over... not sure what to pick

<Sanosuke> There were all sorts of weapons ranging from swords to five-bladed disks.

<Gabriel> "I.. Im not sure"

<Sanosuke> "Pick one up and test its feel."

<Gabriel> Cloud picks something up and nearly falls over after he takes it off the rack

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was at his side putting it back on the rack. "Seems that's too heavey for you right now."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and tries for something lighter

<Sanosuke> "What do you feel for that weapon?" Sephiroth asked.

<Gabriel> "It just looks lighter..." and it wasnt...

<Sanosuke> "Try as many as you like.. you'll understand which is your weapon when you pick it up.

<Gabriel> Cloud goes along testing weapons... most of them he frowns at and puts back down

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth just stood their watching him.

<Gabriel> Cloud sighs "This isnt working..."

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps hand to hand will work?"

<Gabriel> "Until Im a bit stronger.. maybe"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded. "Come with me."

<Gabriel> Cloud follows Sephiroth

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took him to an open ring and removed his cape.

<Gabriel> Cloud looks at Sephiroth... and waits for instruction

<Sanosuke> "Take off your shirt.

<Gabriel> Cloud blinks... and does as he's told.... not liking the fact that its cold

<Sanosuke> "Now come at me."

<Gabriel> "Come... at you?"

<Sanosuke> "Yah, try to attack me."

<Gabriel> "Um.. okay.. " Cloud says... not exactly sure how to attack... but trying anyway

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth grabbed and flipped him over onto the ground as Cloud came at him.

<Gabriel> "oww....." Cloud says.... then gets back up and faces sephiroth again

<Sanosuke> "Try again."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods... and comes at Sephiroth again... positioning himself so he cant be fliiped as easily

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth grinned and waited for Cloud to strike.

<Gabriel> Cloud punches at him weakly... obviously not knowing what he's doing

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth easily blocked and counter punched, but gently as not to actually hurt CLoud.

<Gabriel> Cloud frowns "Okay... tha didnt work"

<Sanosuke> "It;s ok. you're just learning. Try again.

<Sanosuke> "

<Gabriel> Cloud nods.. and comes at Sephiroth again.. punching at him.. but this time ready for the counterstrike

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth countered again.

<Gabriel> Cloud blocks it and makes his own counter

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth grins and blocks that. "

<Sanosuke> Very good.. you're learning quite fast."

<Gabriel> "I have to..."

<Sanosuke> "That's very good Cloud... perhaps you are a born fighter."

<Gabriel> "maybe... I know i am a born prince..."

<Sanosuke> "And that you are."

<Gabriel> "But I want to be a born... regular person.. " Cloud says.... with a grin

<Sanosuke> "Then let's continue... attack!"

<Gabriel> Cloud does as he is told.. trying something new...

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth tries to counter it.

<Gabriel> Cloud changes his move before Sephiroth can counter...

<Sanosuke> the general is caught offgaurd and falls over. "Wow, very good!:

<Gabriel> Cloud blushes "I didnt mean to knock you... over"

<Sanosuke> I've never seen anyone master it so fast..."

<Gabriel> "Youre.. just taking it easy on me probably.."

<Sanosuke> "Heh, I'll take it hard on you and we'll see.." He got back up.

<Gabriel> "Just dont kill me... okay?"

<Sanosuke> "I promise."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and gets himself ready "okay.. lets go then"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was the first to attack this time.

<Gabriel> Cloud squeaks and dodges to one side.. trying to get in a jab as the general goes a few steps past

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth brought down his fist to block and sent another at Cloud's head.

<Gabriel> Cloud uses his forarm to block just in time... and takes a step back

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took a step back as well, and grinned at him.

<Gabriel> "Trying to knock me silly huh?" Cloud says... breathing a big heavy because of the adrenal induced exitement this is bringing him

<Sanosuke> "Trying to see what you'll do."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and bounds at Sephiroth... trying to catch him off guard

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth leaned back and pushed Cloud back with his hands.

<Gabriel> "Rrrr..."

<Sanosuke> "You're doing so well Cloud, don't give up now."

<Gabriel> Cloud launches himself at Sephiroth again... trying to avoid being pushed back this time

<Sanosuke> Seph redied toi flip him.

<Gabriel> Cloud seems to sense this and grabs at Sephiroth to prevent that

<Sanosuke> Seph chuckles. "Well, you are good."

<Gabriel> "I dont like being tossed"

<Sanosuke> "I see... now that we are in this lock what are you going to do?>"

<Gabriel> ~unless its onto a bed.. no... bad bad... ~ Cloud blinks for a moment... then knees Sephiroth

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth grunts some. "Good tactics.."

<Gabriel> "sorry... was that a little too much?

<Sanosuke> "Nah, it shows you'll do fine if attacked again."

<Gabriel> "am I done then?"

<Sanosuke> "For today."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and smiles "That was fun"

<Sanosuke> "Glad you enjoyed it." Sephiroth patted Cloud's head.

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles "Now what shall we do..... or do you have business you need to attend to?"

<Sanosuke> "No busness..."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth patted Cloud on the back.,

<Gabriel> "Im glad you are willing to spend time with me"

<Sanosuke> "Well, I don't have many people I can spend time with.. I'm happy to have someone to talk to a well.

<Gabriel> "Do you wanna talk... I can tell you about myself... if you'd like"

<Sanosuke> "Sure."

<Gabriel> "well.. You know about my stature.... but not about my life... " Cloud sighs "I was first born prince, my mother died about a year later... I didnt know her"

<Sanosuke> "I see.... that's sad.. to never know your mom..."

<Gabriel> "Yeah... well my father remarried... for pollitical reasons... to seal a treaty.. he didnt love this new woman... but had a son with her as well.."

<Sanosuke> "What happend then?"

<Gabriel> "My little brother... Rufus... well he hates me.. blames me for all the misery he's had

<Sanosuke> "Why has he had misery?"

<Gabriel> "My father.. took out a lot of his wrath on him.."

<Sanosuke> "What sort?"

<Gabriel> "Every day anger... frustration about not beign able to save my mother... that sort of thing"

<Sanosuke> "I meant.. how."

<Gabriel> "beatings.. other... things"

<Sanosuke> "Other things?"

<Gabriel> "I... he only hints at them"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth frowned. "Tell me?"

<Sanosuke> Muffled crying came from one room as Cloud passed it.

<Gabriel> Cloud stops.... and peeks into the room

<Sanosuke> Rufus was curled up on a bed, not dressed, and crying into a pillow he had clutched to him.

<Gabriel> "rufus?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus looked up at him with blankened, tear-stained eyes

<Gabriel> "what are you doing?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus burried his head in his pillow, crying some more... it was quite obvoius what he was doing.

<Gabriel> Cloud frowns "why...are you crying?"

<Sanosuke> "Hurts..." Rufus sobbed.

<Gabriel> "Hurts...... ?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus nodded weakly, his naked form looking to have red welts down it.

<Gabriel> "You get hit again?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus cried, shivering down his spine. "Worse..."

<Gabriel> "w... worse?"

<Sanosuke> The young boy clutched the pillow so tightly feathers started to fly from it.

<Gabriel> Cloud isnt quite sure what to do... since he doesnt really know what that sort of pain is...

<Sanosuke> but it looked bad... he even saw that parts of the nice white sheets were stained in blood.. and some other things that Cloud couldn't figure out.

<Gabriel> Cloud gets more than a little scared... and runs to find one of the nursemaids that take care of the royal children

<Sanosuke> By the time he got back Rufus's mother was already there, taking care of her son.

<Gabriel> Cloud frowns.. because Rufus' mother isnt the nicest of people to him

<Sanosuke> Rufus clung to his mother, who patted her son on the head and soothed him.. then cast a glare over at Cloud.

<Gabriel> Cloud squeaks and runs from the room... feeling as if was just blamed for whatever happened to his brother

<Sanosuke> "How bad was his mother?" Sephiroth asked.

<Gabriel> "She tried to get me a few times... I think she is the driving force behind his hatred

<Sanosuke> "Sounds like she wants her son on the throne and would do anything to get you away from it."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> "What about your brother?"

<Gabriel> "He has grown cruel... from his mother's coaching... he is the one who put me here.."

<Sanosuke> "I see... perhaps we'd better find a way back.. he sounds like he might be as bad for your world as Serge is for mine."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods.... somewhat sadly "I know my wife will be waiting for me..... out of all the lovers Ive had... she is the only one that seems to actually... love me"

<Sanosuke> "But you don't love her back?"

<Gabriel> "I will have to learn.. like... Im learning everything else... " Cloud says... somewhat determinedly

<Sanosuke> meanwhile, Rufus was in a better mood, draped over the throne now that it was clear it would go to him.

<Gabriel> Rufus' slave being very quite off to one side, only making a small sound when Aeris walks into the throneroom

<Sanosuke> Rufus looked up at her and grinned. "Well well, good of you to join me at last."

<Gabriel> "rufus... have you seen my husband?"

<Sanosuke> "Nope, sorry... I don't know where he is but I don't think he's coming back."

<Gabriel> "You dont think..... he's coming back?"

<Sanosuke> "Nah, why would he?"

<Gabriel> "... what do you mean... he wouldnt just..."

<Sanosuke> "Yah he would. He's prolly shaked up with some cute guy by now."

<Gabriel> "... dont say that about him..."

<Sanosuke> "Come on, he's gay...."

<Gabriel> Aeris hangs her head "I kno.. I try to be a good wife anyway..

<Sanosuke> "See? He only married you to keep the throne..."

<Gabriel> Aeris sighs "you really hate him... dont you?"

<Sanosuke> "Of course I do."

<Gabriel> "So..... now that you say he's gone.. what do I do?"

<Sanosuke> Rufus reached out and pulled her down into his lap. "I can think of a few things."

<Gabriel> "...you...."

<Sanosuke> Rufus licked his lips.

<Gabriel> "No... I... I am married to him... and I'll stay faithful.."

<Sanosuke> "Heh... you're tough..." He kept her in his lap.

<Gabriel> Aeris shakes her head in disgust and moves to get off of Rufus' lap

<Sanosuke> Rufus kept her there. "I didn't say you could leave..."

<Gabriel> "... you cant tell me what to do..."

<Sanosuke> "Yes I can... and you'd better behave.. cause with no Cloud the throne is mine..."

<Gabriel> Aeris shudders "he's not gone..."

<Sanosuke> "Yes he is..."

<Gabriel> "How can you be so sure... unless....... you.. you did something to him...!"

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "He was alive last I looked... but I don'think he can come back..."

<Gabriel> "Where did you put him?"

<Sanosuke> "In another world... with that slave he was enjoying..."

<Gabriel> Aeris hangs her head again... not sure what to say...

<Sanosuke> "He won't come back.."

<Gabriel> "You..... are positive?"

<Sanosuke> "Yep..." Rufus stroked a finger down her cheek.

<Gabriel> "I.. still wont... not with you"

<Sanosuke> "You'll have no choice darling..."

<Gabriel> Aeris sniffles "I wont.. let you"

<Sanosuke> "And that matters to me how?"

<Gabriel> Aeris slaps him "I will not let you"

<Sanosuke> Rufus mearly grinned. "I get what I want girly..."

<Gabriel> "You wont get me........" Aeris says.. sounding rather unsure of that though....

<Sanosuke> Rufus moved his hands over her clothed body.

<Gabriel> "stoppit!" she shrieks... and it echos through the hall

<Sanosuke> "Hush lil lady..." Rufus continued to gently grope.

<Gabriel> "stop stop stop!!" she screams

<Sanosuke> "If you would just calm down you won't hurt..."

<Gabriel> "I wont calm down... you ... you... stop now!!!"

<Sanosuke> "Why?"

<Gabriel> "be.. because... Cloud.. is my husband"

<Sanosuke> "He can't do what I can with you..."

<Gabriel> "He... could if he...

<Sanosuke> "He's gay... he doesn't want you.”

<Gabriel> Aeris starts to cry.. "I... I dont care.. maybe... if .. I just"

<Sanosuke> "He's never gonna change..."

<Gabriel> "then.... what about...m e?"

<Sanosuke> "You're just here to help him keep the throne."

<Gabriel> "They will send me home to my family then...:

<Sanosuke> "And what are they like?"

<Gabriel> "Not too bad... but... they... might be displeased"

<Sanosuke> "In what wya?"

<Gabriel> "That Im no longer part of the royal family... thats why.. this ... my marriage was arranged"

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "You don't have to displease them.

<Sanosuke> "

<Gabriel> "But..."

<Sanosuke> "But nothing... you'll stay.. with me.."

<Gabriel> "You.. I.. no I cant...

<Sanosuke> "Yes you can... and I can pleasure you unlike my brother."

<Gabriel> "But... who will... give me a divorce....?'

<Sanosuke> "I can."

<Gabriel> Aeris sighs "You... you will hurt me though... wont you?"

<Sanosuke> "Not unless you make me..."

<Gabriel> "you... promise?"

<Sanosuke> "Yep."

<Gabriel> "a.. alright then.. if... you are sure Cloud isnt... returning"

<Sanosuke> "Yep." Rufus got up, holding her in his arms./

<Gabriel> Aeris squeaks slightly and clings ... afraid of him dropping her

<Sanosuke> Rufus headed off toward the bedroom.

<Gabriel> "Should.. I ask where you are taking me?"

<Sanosuke> "Gues.."

<Gabriel> "s.. should we... we arent.. married"

<Sanosuke> "I have absolute power." He set her on the bed.

<Gabriel> "But your father.. isnt dead yet"

<Sanosuke> "He's dying.. so he can't do shit..."

<Gabriel> "f.. fine"

<Sanosuke> Rufus loomed over her on the bed.

<Gabriel> Aeris Scoots back a little... somewhat afraid

<Sanosuke> Rufus pulled off his shirt and moved forward still.

<Gabriel> "i... isnt this a little .. quick?"

<Sanosuke> "Not for me it isn't..."

<Gabriel> "You.. sleep with a lot of women... dont you"

<Sanosuke> "Not as much as I'd like..."

<Gabriel> "You... wont be faithful to me..... will you?"

<Sanosuke> "Cloud was never faithful to you..."

<Gabriel> "I... want someone that will be faithful.."

<Sanosuke> "You'll never get that sweetheart.."

<Gabriel> "How... do you know??"

<Sanosuke> "Because it's life.:"

<Gabriel> Aeris sniffles ... and draws back some more

<Sanosuke> Rufus put his hands on her knees.

<Gabriel> ".. please..."

<Sanosuke> "What?"

<Gabriel> "dont... not yet...'

<Sanosuke> "Why not? I want some.."

<Gabriel> "I... Ive never..."

<Sanosuke> He chuckled. "You mean he never touched you at all?"

<Gabriel> "He.. tried.. but... usually he would... get embarassed and leave"

<Sanosuke> "Heh... well then... this will be more fun."

<Gabriel> Aeris shivers.. not liking Rufus' tone of voice at all

<Sanosuke> Rufus came over her again, trapping her on the bed.

<Gabriel> Aeris looks up at him.. already breathing heavily.. since she's scared

<Sanosuke> Rufus suddenly kissed her.

<Gabriel> Aeris tenses.. not expecting that... but she relaxes as she finds it not in the least unpleasant

<Sanosuke> Rufus then went back to groping her a little over the clothing as he continued toi kiss her.

<Gabriel> Aeris squirms a little... not quite liking being groped like that...

<Sanosuke> Rufus started to force his tongue into her mouth.

<Gabriel> Aeris squeaks... and kicks her legs a little

<Sanosuke> Rufus sat on them so she couldn';t move.

<Gabriel> "Dont.. dont......" She whimpers... still squirming

<Sanosuke> Rufus started to pull at her clothing... making it clear that he felt he was in charge.

<Gabriel> Aeris tries to hit him... making it clear that she doensnt want this

<Sanosuke> Rufus grabbed her hand and pinned it under her.

<Gabriel> 'I dont want..."

<Sanosuke> "I don't care... I get what I want..."

<Gabriel> "I care... what... if..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus tore her top off.

<Sanosuke> Poor Cloud was unawhere what his brother was doing to his wife as Sephiroth sat down with him.

<Gabriel> "At least I know she will be there for me... when I go back"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded. "Someone that cares... that's all that one needs."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth rubbed his knees with his hands, sighing a little.

<Gabriel> "What do you plan to do..?"

<Sanosuke> "Finish the war...."

<Gabriel> "I want to help.... if I can..."

<Sanosuke> "I;d be happy... your skill is excillent."

<Gabriel> "Then I will..... my kingdom can wait.."

<Sanosuke> "Thank you.. besides.. the gate is at Serge's castle."

<Gabriel> "Yes... tell me.... about him?"

<Sanosuke> "Serge? He's evil and wants to conquer the world."

<Gabriel> "oh... why?"

<Sanosuke> "He's evil and power hungry..."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "Like my brother.."

<Sanosuke> "Think he would want to conquer your world?"

<Gabriel> "Maybe... he's been starved for love and stuff...thats what I'd do if.. i was him:

<Sanosuke> "That... that would really warp someone.."

<Gabriel> "Its all... my fault too..."

<Sanosuke> "Why is it your fault?"

<Gabriel> "Because... my father loved me.... and not him.."

<Sanosuke> "What about his mother?"

<Gabriel> "His mother loved him..."

<Gabriel> "still loves him.... she probably had him do what he did to me.."

<Sanosuke> "Then he was loved... what did he do?"

<Gabriel> "My father... "

<Sanosuke> "What did he do?"

<Gabriel> "He... I think he... raped him..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth sighed. "People do evil things..."

<Gabriel> "My father.. wasnt evil to me..... but.. my brother.. he.. " Cloud sighs and hangs his head "I dont blame my brother for what he does..."

<Sanosuke> "He's warped then... not truely evil.. just doesn't know what's right and wrong."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "He is in pain"

<Sanosuke> "Then he can be helped."

<Gabriel> "He... deserves to be king.... but is.. least fit for it"

<Sanosuke> "Why not fit?"

<Gabriel> "He is cruel.."

<Sanosuke> "What has he done?"

<Gabriel> "He has killed a few of his slaves... and I dont give his little monkey tailed one much longer"

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps that's how he was treated..."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "And thats why he hates me....."

<Sanosuke> "Cause you've never been hurt?"

<Gabriel> "When I did something wrong... father would punish him..."

<Sanosuke> "Oh..." Sephiroth frowned. "I can see why he hates you then... at least he didn't kill you."

<Gabriel> "Yes..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth suddenly hugged Cloud.

<Gabriel> Cloud squeeks... not sure what to make of that

<Sanosuke> "No one should have to go through that.." Seph whispered.

<Gabriel> "No.. nobody should..."

<Sanosuke> "You feel bad about it all?"

<Gabriel> "Yes... Everything..."

<Sanosuke> "Then you suffered with him..."

<Gabriel> "Yes.. .because I couldnt help him.. and he hated me all the more no matter how much I Tried to ... make it betteR"

<Sanosuke> "What did you do?"

<Gabriel> "Behaved the best I could so father wouldnt get mad and hurt him.."

<Sanosuke> "And yet he got hurt anyway?"

<Gabriel> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth rocked him. "Is he still alive?"

<Gabriel> "Rufus? Of course.."

<Sanosuke> "no, your father."

<Gabriel> Cloud snuggles against Sephiroth unconciously... "He was quite ill.. last I saw him"

<Sanosuke> "How ill?"

<Gabriel> "Quite.. ill"

<Sanosuke> "Like could be dead?"

<Gabriel> "yes.. " Cloud says sadly

<Sanosuke> "You love him... even though he did horrible things.."

<Gabriel> "He is my father.."

<Sanosuke> "I know... I'm sory for thinking bad of him."

<Gabriel> "Its alright.... I am just loyal to him.. he cared for me.."

<Sanosuke> "Cared for you alone."

<Gabriel> "Made sure I always had what I wanted... spoiled me... gave me a wonderful woman to marry.... even though Im terrible .. to her

<Sanosuke> "What do you do to her? Just what you told me.. don't want to see her?"

<Gabriel> "I dont hurt her... I try hard.. to .. be what she wants... but.. it must be horrible... knowing your husband doesnt want you.."

<Sanosuke> "She knows then?"

<Gabriel> "I... I dont know..."

<Sanosuke> "What did your brother get?"

<Gabriel> "He wasnt given a wife..."

<Sanosuke> "did he get anything?"

<Gabriel> "N.. no.. but I was going to... give him.. whatever he wanted after my father died...

<Sanosuke> "You were?"

<Gabriel> "Yes... not the crown.. but.. the things any prince would get.. a cut of the lands... his own castle... etceter"

<Sanosuke> "What did he have before that?"

<Gabriel> "My father gave him nothing... he probably would have been tossed out.. but I wouldnt allow that.. he is my brother... reguardless"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded.

<Sanosuke> Meanwhile... Rufus got dressed and headed out, planning to pay someone a visit.

<Gabriel> Rufus's slave follows his master at a safe distance... as always

<Sanosuke> "Time to pay dear old dad a visit..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus grinned.,

<Gabriel> The slave scoots ahead of Rufus to open the door for him... then dodges back quickly so as not to get hit

<Sanosuke> Rufus walked through the door, a savage grin on his face.

<Gabriel> The ailing king looks somewhat shriveled .. as he is propped up o the fluffy white pillows

<Sanosuke> "Well well, how are you doing today?" Rufus chuckled, coming near.

<Gabriel> The king is barely able to speak..... and wouldnt have anything to say to Rufus even if he could

<Sanosuke> Rufus came around so the king could see him and grinned at him.

<Gabriel> The king gets a scowl on his face...

<Sanosuke> Rufus just grinned. "You're looking so very unwell..."

<Gabriel> "...."

<Sanosuke> "Oh? You want to see your favorate son, don't you?"

<Gabriel> "...." The king tries to prop himself up better.. so he can try to talk

<Sanosuke> "Just blink to tell me..."

<Gabriel> The king nods his head.. indicating that he does want to see Cloud

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "You'll never see him again..."

<Gabriel> ".... what... have you done?" He rasps feebly

<Sanosuke> "He's in another world now.... with his slave... His wife is mine now..."

<Gabriel> The king groans and sinks back down..

<Sanosuke> Rufus laughed. "Oh, I thought that would be more fun then just killing him."

<Gabriel> "you... treacherous......."

<Sanosuke> "Tisk tisk... it doesn't mater now... he ain't coming back and I'll be ruler."

<Gabriel> The king tries to call for his guards... to remove and punish the traitor to his kingdom":

<Sanosuke> Rufus moved close to him and clamped a hand over the king's mouth.

<Sanosuke> "Can't let you do that..." He cooed.

<Gabriel> "....." The king raises one of his bony hands and clamps its icy coldness on Rufus' wrist

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "You're to weak..."

<Gabriel> "....."

<Gabriel> The king's eyes seem to tell him that he will not get away with what he has done

<Sanosuke> "But I already have.." Rufus whispered, keeping his hand over the king's mouth.. and nose.

<Gabriel> The king is barely able to struggle... but he stares at Rufus... as he slowly fades... an unforgiving stare...

<Sanosuke> Rufus laughed to himself then walked out of the room to get his mother.

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth got up from where he was sitting with Cloud.

<Sanosuke> "Time to train my army..." He told him.

<Gabriel> "Alright.... I suppose I'll go off somewhere... and think"

<Sanosuke> "You are welcome to join."

<Gabriel> "Im a bit sore from fighting earlier... "

<Sanosuke> "Ok then.. see yah soon."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and wanders a slight distance from the camp... to sit and think about everything

<Sanosuke> The shade of a tree... it was nice and soft grass.

<Gabriel> Cloud settles down and plucks at the grass.... thinking about Sephiroth..... his wife.... his kingdom... and everthing else thats important

<Sanosuke> "Nice day." Said someone above him.. sitting on a tree branch.

<Gabriel> "Hmm..?" Cloud says... not so relaxed anymore

<Sanosuke> "The breeze... the sun... it's nice, isn't it?"

<Gabriel> "Uh... yes.. who are you?"

<Sanosuke> "My name is Xellos." The person jumped down from the branch and landed before Cloud.

<Gabriel> "Ahh.. um.. I am Cloud... are you with.. Sephiroth's party?"

<Sanosuke> "No, I'm not with his party... though I do drop in on Lina quite a bit."

<Gabriel> "oh... Miss Lina's lover then? Did I disturb a tryst?"

<Sanosuke> "Not at all.. I'm not her lover... I just drop in on her... she usally doesn'

<Sanosuke> t like it when I do..."

<Gabriel> Cloud.. beginning to feel a little unnerved... stands up

<Sanosuke> "I knew her before she hooked up with Sephiroth.

<Sanosuke> "

<Gabriel> "Ahh... well. I think I should head back..."

<Sanosuke> Xellos put a hand on Cloud's shoulder. "Not just yet."

<Gabriel> "No.. I. I must.. Sephiroth will worry... and.. I dont want that.. Ive caused him enough trouble.."

<Sanosuke> "Don't worry about him... Miss Lina will be there to comfort him."

<Gabriel> "Wha... what do you mean?"

<Sanosuke> Xellos vanished with him from that spot... and appeared again in some sort of throne room.

<Gabriel> Cloud blinks.... dizzied by the sudden shift of scenery... and almost falls over

<Sanosuke> Xellos cathes him. "See, I got him just like I got the last one..."

<Gabriel> "excellent... " A somewhat soft... but cruel voice says

<Sanosuke> "Where shall I put him?"

<Gabriel> "Ohh throw him someplace unpleasant until I can deal with him.."

<Sanosuke> "Alright." Xellos vanished with Cloud again and placed him in a room that smelled awful, then vanished out to the throne room leaving Cloud behind.

<Gabriel> Cloud is still somewhat dazed... not quite getting what just happened

<Gabriel> "How long do you think it is before Sephiroth notes his little bedwarmer is gone?"

<Sanosuke> "Why not just deal with Sephiroth this time?" Xellos asked, "Rather then sending him to another world.. are you still not ready?"

<Sanosuke> Xellos shrugged. "He'll know by tonight... Lina will prolly talk.. she always does..."

<Gabriel> "I dont know what to do with him.... I thought sending him away would keep him busy long enough.... do something about that Lina once she ends her usefulness"

<Sanosuke> "Alright. She's got the hots for Sephy,... more then she did for her last sword swinger.. then again, that last one was a moron..."

<Gabriel> "Hmph... I cant understand people and thier little things for other people... I guess it doesnt matter..... it does make for good lesson teaching though"

<Sanosuke> Xellos chuckled. "Human's have their strange desires...”

<Gabriel> "Do you think I should just get rid of sephiroth?"

<Sanosuke> "Well, you did say he's got something inside of him you need one day..."

<Gabriel> "I wish it was something that I Could store on ice in a corpse.. "

<Sanosuke> "That would make things much more helpful... but, I do have an idea master..."

<Gabriel> "Ohh? Do tell"

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps we can put him into some sort of stasis..."

<Gabriel> "Hmm.... that might work.."

<Sanosuke> "I can cast a spell but he will have to be kept inside a spell grid for several minutes..."

<Gabriel> Well... we can set up his little boyfriend... to keep him busy for that long

<Sanosuke> "Yes. I'll work on preping the spell then."

<Gabriel> "And I will work on prepping a nice little torture trap"

<Sanosuke> "Mmm... what sort?"

<Gabriel> Something that is sure to finish its victim... just in time for that to be the last memory he has before your spell nabs him

<Sanosuke> "For the bedwarmer?"

<Gabriel> "Yes... Sephiroth's memory to torture him while he dreams will be his little lover's gruesome fate

<Sanosuke> "Mmm... let him dream forever.. his mind active but all the rest shut down... heh."

<Gabriel> "Yes.. dream forever about Zack and whatever this one's name is"

<Sanosuke> "Cloud... both of them with spikey hair."

<Gabriel> "Ohh.... Cloud.. such a nice name.."

<Sanosuke> "That it is..."

<Gabriel> "Well... lets bait our traps and wait then.... " Serge says and stands... rubbing his hands together

<Sanosuke> "Yes sir."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth meanwhile had finished the drills and returned to his tent.

<Gabriel> Cloud is no where in sight.. and doesnt appear to have been there lately

<Sanosuke> He frowned and ducked out again. "Anyone seen Cloud?"

<Gabriel> A few people milling around shake thier heads

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked around. "Where could he have gone?"

<Gabriel> No one seems to know... or has seen Cloud since earlier

<Sanosuke> "Where was he last seen?"

<Gabriel> "He walked out of camp after you two were done talking.."

<Sanosuke> "Where did he go?"

<Gabriel> "Dont know... "

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked around and headed out of camp.

<Gabriel> Lina follows him at a distance.... afraid to tell him

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked around and started calling out his name.

<Gabriel> Lina waits.. knowing there will be no answer ... then finally calls out to Sephiroth

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth spun. "Oh Lina, it's you."

<Gabriel> "Sephiroth.... its... he's gone"

<Sanosuke> "Where? Why?" Sephiroth frowned.

<Gabriel> "... Serge.."

<Sanosuke> "WHAT?!" Sephiroth jumped.

<Gabriel> "Serge..... must have found out.. and thought that.. he was.. your lover"

<Sanosuke> "No... I'm not gonna let Serge get away with killing more people.. Cloud did nothing! his brother stranded him here so that he could have the throne in his world..."

<Gabriel> "Seph.. "

<Sanosuke> "What?"

<Gabriel> Lina tries to look at him but cant

<Sanosuke> "Lina... you.. you ran into Xellos again.. didn't you?" Sephiroth said softly.

<Gabriel> "... Im... sorry... do what you want to me.. if it'll make things better"

<Sanosuke> "Come with me.. to Serge's palace... Perhaps together we can win."

<Gabriel> Lina nods.. slowly "alright..... its the least I can do "

<Sanosuke> "Even if we both might die..." Sephiroth turned to look out over the hill.

<Gabriel> "I dont mind dying.. all that much"

<Sanosuke> "Why? Because your friends died?"

<Gabriel> "No.... dont worry about it..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded. "Let's leave now and slip in like we slipped out..."

<Gabriel> Lina nods "Alright.. lets go

<Sanosuke> It didn't take long for them to get in... something they could never do with the whole army.. just the two of them.

<Gabriel> "Where do you think they have him?"

<Sanosuke> "Not sure... Should we split up to look?"

<Gabriel> Lina nods "Be careful..."

<Sanosuke> "You too." Sephiroth went down on passageway.

<Gabriel> Lina takes the other..... searching for Cloud only halfheartedly

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was earching for Cloud and feeling sick from the feelings of deja-vu.

<Gabriel> Cloud on the other hand isnt too happy about where he is

<Sanosuke> Xellos clapped his hands together, having finished the markings needed, and now waited for Sephiroth to arive.

<Gabriel> "They're cute when they're confused arent they?" Serge says.. referring to the bound and gagged Cloud who is strapped to an altar of sorts

<Sanosuke> Xellos chuckled. "Very..."

<Gabriel> "Youre probably wondering why I chose this .. way.. Its nostalgic.."

<Sanosuke> "You mean like with Zack?"

<Gabriel> "Yes.. same way... same sword... same altar..... and Im going to dissect him before sephiroth's eyes

<Sanosuke> Xellos licked his lips. "Yummy... and this time he's not getting the body..."

<Gabriel> "Of course not.. he's not leaving here... " Serge says... leaning on his sword lazily..

<Sanosuke> "Too bad he got away with Zack's..."

<Gabriel> "yes... would have been a nice trophy"

<Gabriel> Serge pets Cloud as if he's an animal.... "his head will look nice on the wall.... I think..."

<Sanosuke> "Yep. Right next to the others."

<Gabriel> "What is taking him so long?"

<Sanosuke> "He's almost here... right down the hall.

<Sanosuke> "

<Gabriel> "Ahh.. well then I need to make this little bugger scream dont I?" Serge says.... and flips the gag out of clou'ds mouth

<Sanosuke> Xellos sat down in his place, consintrating on his spell.

<Gabriel> Serge boredly drags his sword across Cloud's chest.. blood welling up from the wound

<Gabriel> Cloud lets out a loud cry of pain... which serge snickers at

<Sanosuke> That's when Sephiroth crashed through the door, a look of pure rage on his face.

<Gabriel> "Ahh..... there you are"

<Sanosuke> "LET HIM GO NOW!!" Sephiroth demanded.

<Gabriel> "Aww.. Sephiroth... you replaced Zack rather quickly... "

<Sanosuke> "You evil sadistic.. let him go.. he got stranded here in our world and I promised to help him."

<Gabriel> "hmm... so he's not your new bedwarmer then?"

<Sanosuke> "Where did you get that idea?"

<Gabriel> "Well.. Xellos got it from Lina I suppose"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth started to wonder where Lina was anyway...

<Gabriel> Lina is wandering the halls.... a bit lost...

<Sanosuke> She could hear Xellos chanting to himself though...

<Gabriel> "Thats... a.... stasis spell... lina says to herself softly.... and heads for the source of the sound"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth came forward, not knowing he was standing in a spell circle.

<Gabriel> Serge Jabs his sword into Cloud and smiles at Sephiroth "Well you came to rescue him anyway"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth growled in rage and ran forward with his masamune.

<Gabriel> Serge chuckles and jumps back along with his sword... leaving a nice wound in Cloud

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth wished Lina was there to help with a spell.. mostly for Cloud, as he rushed Serge.

<Gabriel> Serge dodges sephiroth with inhuman agility.. laughing at him

<Gabriel> Lina on the other hand is sneaking up behind Xellos... realizing what he's up to and about to stop him

<Sanosuke> Xellos didn't seem to notice Lina was there in the room with him, all energy working on his spell as Sephiroth was kept busy by Serge.

<Gabriel> Lina draws her sword and rushes at Xellos.. knowing it will do little damage but.. hoping it'll knock him out of the spellcasting

<Sanosuke> She was right about that and he grunted from the hit, then knocked her back. "My my... that was not a good thing to do."

<Gabriel> "Well I did it anyway..... " She says cockily from the floor

<Sanosuke> Xellos pulled the sword out and dropped it. "TRying to save him?"

<Gabriel> "Yes.. why do you think I did that..... for jollies?" She says getting back up

<Sanosuke> "I thought you liked to try and attack me..."

<Gabriel> "Under normal circumstances... yes.."

<Sanosuke> "All for what I did to your friends?"

<Gabriel> "yessss..."

<Sanosuke> "That was fun..." Xellos chuckled, grinning and picking her up with one hand.

<Gabriel> Lina tries to kick at him... "Yeah.. wasnt fun for me...."

<Sanosuke> "To be covered in their blood..." Xellos hurrled her into the wall, though not at an angel that would kill.

<Gabriel> Lina grunts and closes her eyes... wishing she didnt remember that...

<Sanosuke> Xellos walked over to her again and looked down. "You looked so beautiful with it all over you..."

<Gabriel> "Sick... sick.. " Lina groans... trying to catch her breath back

<Sanosuke> He grabbed her wrists. "Remember what happend after Lina?" He purred.

<Gabriel> "Dont......."

<Sanosuke> He squated down and pulled her into his lap, still holding her wrists. "I bet you block it all out for the most part..."

<Gabriel> "Dont.. dont talk about it..."

<Sanosuke> "Then I won't talk..." He wrapped an arm around her, pinning her to him,

<Gabriel> "Dont act either!"

<Sanosuke> Xellos chuckled. "How true.. I don't have the time..." He took off her shirt and ripped it to use as something to tie her arms together and to something against the wall.

<Gabriel> "What the hell are you doing........."

<Sanosuke> He went back to where he was sitting and ignored her as he started his spell up again.

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth continued his battle with Serge, swords clashing.

<Gabriel> "He's going to bleed to death while we play.. its so sweet"

<Sanosuke> "I will kill you..." Sephiroth roared, bringing his blade down at Serge.

<Gabriel> Serge blocks easily "highly unlikely..."

<Sanosuke> "It is what I must do.. kill you."

<Gabriel> "Come Sephiroth you cant kill me... not even with what you hold within"

<Sanosuke> "Hold within?" Sephiroth looked mildly confused but wasn't letting that slip him upl.

<Gabriel> "Oh... dont bother asking... you wouldnt understand being a human"

<Sanosuke> "And what's so bad with being human?"

<Gabriel> "You have little chance at being able to tap yourself"

<Sanosuke> "Then explain.."

<Gabriel> "You have power.. unimaginable power for one like yourself..."

<Sanosuke> "If I have power.. then I can use it..."

<Gabriel> "Try then.. maybe you can save your little......... friend

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth moved around the alter, keeping serge in veiw as he checked on Cloud.

<Gabriel> Cloud is breathing slowly... his eyes closed.. the blood on his chest is congealing ... and bleeding more slowly

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth placed a hand down to cover the wound.

<Gabriel> Cloud opens his eyes and smiles sleepily "Hi seph..."

<Sanosuke> "How do you feel?"

<Gabriel> "sleepy.. "

<Sanosuke> "Shh.. try to stay awake.. you've lost a lot of blood."

<Gabriel> "Im okay... Im sorry... for causing you trouble......."

<Sanosuke> "No, it's ok Cloud... you havn't caused me trouble."

<Gabriel> "Yes.. I have... Im sorry... kill that guy.. please?"

<Sanosuke> "I'm trying... just stay awake... I don't know how to heal."

<Gabriel> "I'll be here.. for you... trust me.....:

<Sanosuke> "Thank you." Sephiroth took his hand off him and went back to charging Serge.

<Gabriel> "That was quite touching Sephiroth...'

<Sanosuke> "That wasn't for your ears Serge..."

<Gabriel> "I should have let you comfort Zack as well..:

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth growled. "You shouldn't have killed him..."

<Gabriel> "I'll let that one go if you give up"

<Sanosuke> "What?"

<Gabriel> "Give up... and I'll let him go....... since we arent getting anywhere"

<Sanosuke> "Then send him home now... he's from that world you sent me to."

<Gabriel> "Alright then.... "

<Sanosuke> "Now Serge..."

<Gabriel> Serge claps his hands and a servant of some sort appears "Take the boy on the altar and dump him into the portal we send all the slaves through..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth did not lower his gaurd till Cloud was safely through.

<Gabriel> "There.... now..."

<Sanosuke> He dropped his blade.

<Gabriel> "Good boy.... "

<Sanosuke> "Do we still need the spell?" Xellos called.

<Gabriel> "I think I can handle him"

<Sanosuke> Xellos stood up and grinend at Lina.

<Sanosuke> grinned^

<Gabriel> "Lemme offa this wall... " She growls at him...making quite a show of squirming

<Sanosuke> He brushed over to her. "Now, why would I want to do that?"

<Gabriel> 'because Im gonna kick your.. ass if you dont!"

<Sanosuke> "Ah, but you know I'd like that."

<Gabriel> Lina growls... wishing she had a better plan than mere threats

<Sanosuke> Xellos cupped his hand under her chin and smiled some at her. "You do look pretty even if not covered in blood and bound by intestense.."

<Gabriel> Lina shudders... and closes her eyes... "shutup..."

<Sanosuke> He trailed his other hand down her bare breasts.

<Gabriel> "stoppit..." Lina almost whimpers... trying desperately to keep control of herself

<Sanosuke> He cupped one breast and squeezed.

<Gabriel> Lina chokes a little as she begins to sob... his hands unwelcome reminders of what happened

<Sanosuke> His other hand wiped at her tears. "You're so beautiful when you're afraid..."

<Gabriel> "Stop.. " she whimpers now... unable to recall any spells

<Sanosuke> "Only my master can tell me to stop." He leaned in to kiss her.

<Gabriel> Lina turns her head away "Did she tell you to start in the first place......."

<Sanosuke> "Sore Wa Himitsu Desu..." Xellos nipped her cheek.

<Gabriel> "Get the hell away from me!" She finally breaks down and screams

<Sanosuke> "Go on Lina, scream... be scared...."

<Gabriel> Lina hiccups... and tries to kick at Xellos... going into panic mode

<Sanosuke> Xellos giggled as he was kicked. "So cute..."

<Gabriel> "Hmm... well.. sounds like Xellos is having fun.. " Serge comments..

<Sanosuke> "What?" Sephiroth asked.

<Gabriel> "You brought that little sorceress with you didnt you?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes... why?"

<Gabriel> "I think Xellos found her.. didnt you just hear... oh well nevermind... you are human.."

<Sanosuke> "What? What's Xellos doing?"

<Gabriel> "Oh dont worry about it..."

<Sanosuke> "Tell me.. please."

<Gabriel> "I already let one of your friends go... and I owe Xellos..... you do know about thier past together dont you?"

<Sanosuke> "No... she didn't really talk about it."

<Gabriel> "Oh.. well ... its not important.."

<Sanosuke> "I want to know."

<Gabriel> "Oh its something about killing her friends... then binding her with thier entrails as he had his way with her....... Im not too sure on the details"

<Sanosuke> "He.. what?"

<Gabriel> "werent yuo listening?

<Sanosuke> "That's... sick..." Sephiroth shivered.

<Gabriel> "Yes.. it is a bit sick... even for me.. but... she's not important... "

<Sanosuke> "What will he do to her?"

<Gabriel> "Probably play with her until he gets tired... then off her.. like I suggested earlier"

<Sanosuke> "No!" Sephiroth was about to bolt for her.

<Gabriel> "Excuse me... but she wasnt part of the deal... stay or I'll send Xellos after blondie

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth frowned and stayed put... remembering what Lina told him.

<Gabriel> "good boy... now..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked up at him.

<Gabriel> "Where should I put you for the time being?"

<Sanosuke> He looked down again, not sure of what fate was in store for him.

<Gabriel> "Maybe I should have had Xellos put you in cold storage.... you still might cause problems"

<Sanosuke> "If I do you'll hurt Cloud and I will not allow that."

<Gabriel> "I have already said I wont hurt cloud... do you think I wouldnt keep my word?"

<Sanosuke> "I keep my word.. so I will not do anything to get Cloud hurt."

<Gabriel> "Well then... you have free run of the castle... just behave.. I'll call you when I figure out how to extract your power..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked down and nodded, a frown on his face.

<Gabriel> "And Leave Xellos and his toy alone..."

<Sanosuke> There was pain.. but not as much in his chest now.. that had healed up somehow.. the pain was in his head mostly as Cloud lay on a cold marble floor with no clothing on.

<Gabriel> Cloud moans.... trying to organize his thoughts within his fuzzy painful head

<Sanosuke> "Well Well..." Came a familiur voice, "Look who made it back..."

<Gabriel> Cloud levers himself up... and blinks "Rufus...?"

<Sanosuke> "I'm surprised you're still alive dear brother..."

<Gabriel> "Why... wouldnt I be...?"

<Sanosuke> "A few days in a REAL world... I figured that would kill you for sure... you never lifted a finger for yourself in your life."

<Gabriel> "... Im learning..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "In any case, you're just in time to see the funeral."

<Gabriel> "Funeral?"

<Sanosuke> "For dear old dad.. he passed away while you were gone."

<Gabriel> Cloud hangs his head "Father.... I wasnt there ... for him"

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "Nore were you there for your people.. or should I say mine?"

<Gabriel> "Your.... people.......?"

<Sanosuke> "You'll never be king..."

<Gabriel> "You..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "You're wife is now mine too..."

<Gabriel> "Aeris..."

<Sanosuke> Rufus licked his lips and grinned. "Yes... she protested a little at first but she's learned to accept the facts."

<Gabriel> "Rufus... please.. you do deserve the crown.. but... dont be a ... tyrant

<Sanosuke> "What? Speak up little brat.. I thought I heard you say something."

<Gabriel> "Im not a brat!:

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled. "Well, it doesn't matter... I'll let you see father put to rest..."

<Gabriel> "Then what....? "

<Sanosuke> "Perhaps then you can join him..."

<Gabriel> "No.. "

<Sanosuke> Rufus chuckled and picked Cloud up dragging him along the floor.

<Gabriel> "Lemme go... I can stand....."

<Sanosuke> Rufus gripped his arm. "Fine."

<Gabriel> "I wont let you have me killed...

<Sanosuke> "Why not?"

<Gabriel> "Because... I have to go back for him"

<Sanosuke> "For who?"

<Gabriel> "Sephiroth... I have to help him..."

<Sanosuke> "Ah, that slave you had?"

<Gabriel> "Yes..."

<Sanosuke> "I see... then why are you back here?"

<Gabriel> "I was sent back.. they have him prisoner... I have to go back... he surrendered for my release.."

<Sanosuke> "Then he's probably dead or something..."

<Gabriel> "I have to go back.."

<Sanosuke> "Not right now.. right now you're going no where but to your room.." Rufus dragged him in and tossed him onto the bed.

<Gabriel> "I have to go back!!" Cloud complains

<Sanosuke> "No... stay here. I'll give you food later." Rufus shut the door.

<Gabriel> Cloud puts on some clothes... wearing his least flashy stuff

<Gabriel> He then plunks down on the bed and puts his hands on his temples

<Sanosuke> There was a knock at his door shortly after.

<Gabriel> "Come.... in"

<Sanosuke> Aeris walked in, looking haggered.. a frown over her lovely face.

<Gabriel> "Aeris......."

<Sanosuke> She shut the door behind her and sniffled. "Oh Cloud..."

<Gabriel> "Im sorry... this happened"

<Sanosuke> She ran to him and hugged him.

<Gabriel> Cloud hugs her back "Im sorry... this is all my fault.... Im.. not fit..

<Sanosuke> She climbed into his lap and shook, crying. "That evil twisted bastard..."

<Gabriel> "Shh.... its not his fault......."

<Sanosuke> "The bastard raped me and it's not his fault???!!!" She screamed.

<Gabriel> "He was mistreated.. as a child.. raped by his own father....... "

<Gabriel> Cloud tries to calm her down... wishing she understood

<Sanosuke> "W-what?" She looked shocked.

<Gabriel> "Father didnt love him... he hated Rufus.. and mistreated badly.. he cant help what he is"

<Sanosuke> More tears flowed down her face. "My god... I had no idea..."

<Gabriel> "He needs help... but....... its probably too late.."

<Sanosuke> She clung to Cloud. "I need out of here... he treats me badly..."

<Gabriel> "what can I do... he means to kill me..:

<Gabriel> "If that will take away some of the anger in his heart... then.. perhaps it is best

<Sanosuke> "He already killed... his father..."

<Gabriel> "He... killed....... father...........

<Sanosuke> "He told me... and told me not to tell anyone..."

<Gabriel> Tears begin rolling down Cloud's cheeks "Father... I know.. you were bad... but you loved me..."

<Sanosuke> "I... I'll help you escape if you take me with you."

<Gabriel> "Alright...."

<Sanosuke> "Thank you."

<Gabriel> "the place... Im going is at war... and isnt very warm..... to warn you"

<Sanosuke> "It's ok... anywhere is better then here."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "Bring some warm things..."

<Sanosuke> "I will."

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles and pats her on the head

<Sanosuke> She drew off and was quickly back to let him out.

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles "Thank you Aeris..."

<Sanosuke> "You're welcome and thank you... let's get out of here."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "Lead on

<Sanosuke> She took his hand and ran with him to the portal.

<Gabriel> "Im not sure where this lets out... hopefully.. not near Surge for your sake

<Sanosuke> "Surge?"

<Gabriel> "The guy that wants to hurt... Sephiroth"

<Sanosuke> "I see... let's go then."

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles "Alright... be careful once we're through"

<Sanosuke> Aeris nodded. "You're with me.. I'm not afraid."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "You trust me that much... Im flattered"

<Sanosuke> She clung to his arm as they went through the portal.

<Gabriel> After a moment of dizziness.. they find themselves in a large hall... apparently used to store things such as slaves before they are sent through to cloud's world

<Sanosuke> There were shackles along the wall but no one in them./

<Gabriel> Cloud shivers... and leads Aeris along.. hopefully to find her safety

<Sanosuke> There was a strang sound coming from a room...

<Gabriel> Cloud halts Aeris.. and tells her to stay put while he checks it out

<Sanosuke> Aeris shivered at the noise and hid herself.

<Gabriel> Cloud slinks along the hall and peeks into the room where the noise comes from

<Sanosuke> Not something he wanted to see really... Lina strapped naked to the wall while that creppy guy that had nabbed him did what he wanted to her.

<Gabriel> Cloud shudders... and wonders if he should try to help

<Sanosuke> That guy seemed way powerful... it was doubtful anyone could help right now.

<Gabriel> Cloud shudders again and returns to aeris

<Sanosuke> "What was it?" She asked in a whisper.

<Gabriel> "nothing... come.. quickly.."

<Sanosuke> She nodded and grabbed hold of his hand so she wouldn't get lost.

<Gabriel> Cloud leads her along... not really sure where he is going

<Sanosuke> meanwhile, Seph was pacing back and forth in the throne room.

<Gabriel> Serge is no where to be found.... or perhaps he is nearby... nobody is ever really sure

<Sanosuke> Seph didn't know what sort of power he had, but didn't want it to fall into the hands of evil... but he made a promise and din't want Cloud hurt for breaking it.

<Gabriel> Serge taps Sephiroth on the shoulder

<Sanosuke> Seph turned, eyes blazing but raising no action.

<Gabriel> "Ive figured it out... "

<Sanosuke> "Figured out what?"

<Gabriel> "How to take that lovely power out of you... "

<Gabriel> "that way I dont have your sorry carcass wandering about my castle..."

<Sanosuke> "And how's that?"

<Gabriel> "Well.. thats a secret.. as Xellos likes to say..... and then.. I can finally kill you"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth closed his eyes. "And then what are you going to do?"

<Gabriel> "Use your power to make everyone and everything bend to my will"

<Sanosuke> "And if you could do that why would you kill me? unless that's part of the proccess..."

<Gabriel> "But there would be great pleasure in killing you Sephiroth, the oh so necessary thorn in my side"

<Sanosuke> "Then what? Wouldn't your life be empty without a challange?

<Gabriel> "Challenge... no... beyond this world... lie so many others..... the portals... I will conquer everything...

<Gabriel> "starting with your cloud's world"

<Sanosuke> Seph's eyes narrowed. "I won't let you do that..."

<Gabriel> "And you'll stop me how?"

<Sanosuke> "I... I... I'll have to... someone will have to..."

<Gabriel> "Once I have your power... dear one .. no one will stop me..."

<Sanosuke> "And just how do you intend to get it?"

<Gabriel> "you will cooperate sephiroth..."

<Sanosuke> "Or?"

<Gabriel> "Blondie dies.."

<Sanosuke> "Don't touch him.." Sephiroth narrowed his eyes.

<Gabriel> "Its either he die painfully now... or .. in a mass. in a flash... when I take his world"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth frowned. "No more pain for my Cloud..."

<Gabriel> "It wont hurt..."

<Sanosuke> Seph closed his eyes and hung his head. "And what are you going to do to me?

<Sanosuke> "

<Gabriel> "dispose of you... when im done...'

<Sanosuke> "That all?”

<Gabriel> "yes... then I move.. on to other worlds..."

<Sanosuke> "Someone will stop you some day.. in one of those worlds..."

<Gabriel> "Perhaps.. but I will leave a trail of destruction in my wake

<Sanosuke> "You evil..." Sephiroth shook with rage.

<Gabriel> "What are you going to do?" Serge asks... turning his back on Sephiroth to fiddle with some things

<Sanosuke> "I.. I can't do anything... or you'll hurt Cloud..."

<Gabriel> "He's as good as dead anyway...

<Sanosuke> "But at least he won't suffer...."

<Gabriel> "But at least you can walk the heavens together... well if he isnt hanging on one of those other young men he courted, and fell in love with before you..."

<Sanosuke> "If it's the heavens it's Zack I'll walk with... he's probably waiting for me anyway..."

<Gabriel> Serge smirks "Zack ... that was fun..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth ground his teeth together. "At least you can't hurt him any more..."

<Gabriel> "such a pity too..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth turned his back to Serge. "Let's get on with it then... at least I'll be able to see Zack again..."

<Gabriel> Serge shrugs and prepares his items

<Sanosuke> Seph stayed withhis back to him.

<Gabriel> Serge presses something against his back "Might hurt a bit... not that it matters"

<Sanosuke> Seph grunted. "Pain does not mater if it's to me..."

<Gabriel> "It'll soon be for many... " serge croons... and plays with Sephiroth's hair teasingly

<Sanosuke> "Some one will beat you one day..."

<Gabriel> "Now... if you'd just take a seat... "

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth sat down as told.

<Gabriel> Serge Clamps him into the chair.. and sets up a few things around him

<Sanosuke> Seph found he could no longer move.

<Gabriel> Serge grins at him "alright then... say bye bye.. and give my reguards to Zack..."

<Sanosuke> Seph closed his eyes again and whispered, "I'm sorry love, I failed to avenge you..."

<Gabriel> Serge begins to activate the equipment

<Sanosuke> Aeris clung to Cloud. "What's that noise?"

<Gabriel> "I dunno... " Cloud says... and sneaks towards it

<Sanosuke> It was the throne room... and Sephiroth was strapped down.

<Gabriel> "S... seph?" cloud says quietly

<Sanosuke> Serge was there near him though, seemingly doing something to him.. and this scared Aeris so she clung tighter to Cloud.

<Gabriel> "A.. aeris... leggo.. i gotta help him!"

<Sanosuke> "C-cloud?" Sephiroth's eyes opened.

<Gabriel> "Seph.!" Cloud shouts... shaking Aeris off of his arm and running for him.. not caring about Serge

<Sanosuke> in another room Xellos had finished and let Lina drop off the shackles he had placed her in.

<Gabriel> Lina folds her arms across her chest... her eyes smouldering under the bangs that hang down to hide them

<Sanosuke> Xellos wasn't even looking as his clothing just sort of appeard on him. "Oh? You're angry with me?" He asked as if nothing was wrong.

<Gabriel> "angry.." lina echos... and begins mumbling something

<Sanosuke> He perked up his ears and chuckled. "You mean to destroy the world now do you?"

<Gabriel> She doesnt answer... just keeps chanting...

<Sanosuke> "I see... you do... oh well.. I'll just find a new world then.. bye!"

<Gabriel> "No.. you arent going anywhere........."

<Sanosuke> "Heh... and how do you intend to stop me from leaving?"

<Gabriel> Lina looks up at him... her spell finished "you dont have time....." she manages to say before a golden glow fills the room

<Sanosuke> He cringed.

<Sanosuke> The whole castle shook at that momment, interupting what Serge was doing.

<Gabriel> Serge looks up "What the hell is th at?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth fell out of his restraints, half the spell completed.. his body pulsing with power.

<Gabriel> Cloud moves to his side.. not caring what might happen to him

<Sanosuke> Aeris moved to Cloud's side, ready to help him.

<Gabriel> "seph....."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth groaned, all glowing now... looking freaky.

<Gabriel> Cloud doesnt seem to care.. putting his hands on Sephiroth and trying to get him up"

<Sanosuke> He felt oddly warm and tingly to the touch.

<Gabriel> "Seph... you okay.. talk... please?"

<Sanosuke> "I... feel... dizzy..." Seph said, standing.

<Gabriel> "you'll be alright... please... be alright..." cloud whimpers

<Sanosuke> "I.. I'll be ok..." Sephiroth breathed, still glowing.

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth was still glowing as he stood.

<Gabriel> "what'd he do to you..."

<Sanosuke> "I... dunno..." Seph placed his hand on Cloud and the remains of his wounds healed up before their eyes.

<Gabriel> "wow..."

<Sanosuke> "How did I?" Sephiroth looked at his hands which glowed even brighter.

<Gabriel> "Is... that the power... Serge.... was ?"

<Sanosuke> Seph looked at his hands, then over at Serge, seaking answers.

<Gabriel> "Of course for you... kind of heart... the power would only do good..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth smiled at Cloud. "Thanks... let's get out of here then... what in the world was that shake anyway?"

<Gabriel> "I dont know.." Cloud says... a bit frightened

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth looked around for his weapon.

<Gabriel> Serge sighs and leans on his swallow... fed up with this whole thing

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth grabbed his masamune, eyes narrowing as they set on Serge.

<Gabriel> "Go ahead and kill me... you have your power now... nothing I can do..." Serge says, seemingly resigned

<Sanosuke> "You thought it was impossible..." Sephiroth held his weapon and approuched Serge slowly.

<Gabriel> "Yes.. I did... apparently you are more than you seem...."

<Sanosuke> "And you... just what are you?"

<Gabriel> "Not human.."

<Sanosuke> "And that tells me nothing. WHAT ARE YOU?"

<Gabriel> "You wouldnt understand if I tried to tell you"

<Sanosuke> "Try anyway..."

<Gabriel> "Im tired... put me to sleep..."

<Sanosuke> "A momment ago you were ready to conquer the worlds..."

<Gabriel> "I cant now... isnt it apparent... "

<Sanosuke> "Yes.... but I'm not a murderer...."

<Gabriel> Serge blinks.... "murderer.. hmm"

<Sanosuke> "What? You seem to think different.."

<Gabriel> "Because I am different... Im not of your kind.. it is my nature to destroy...

<Sanosuke> "I see... it is not in my nature to destroy then... you must be from another world."

<Gabriel> "Another world... perhaps

<Sanosuke> "Then I should send you back there...."

<Gabriel> "..."

<Sanosuke> "That not to your liking?"

<Gabriel> "Find home.. and send me back"

<Sanosuke> "I will..." Sephiroth closed his eyes and put out one hand... something surrounded Serge and kept him in place.

<Gabriel> Serge seems momentarily shocked

<Sanosuke> "Let's go find the portals..." Sephiroth took Cloud's hand and started to walk.

<Gabriel> Cloud follows quietly... not quite sure whats going on

<Sanosuke> They came near to where Cloud saw that unsettling scene only to see something VERY VERY strange... NOTHING was there... not even stone or singe... it was like a part of the building... mainly that room... had just ceased to exist.... so had the people inside...

<Gabriel> "Se... seph.. what.. happened here?"

<Sanosuke> "I... I don't know...." He frowned and closed his eyes, down to one knee. "Fair well dear Lina...." His eyes were closed.

<Gabriel> "Miss... Lina?" Cloud asks... slowly

<Sanosuke> "That's what caused the explosion... she used her most powerful spell and consintrated it in her room..... to destroy Xellos.... and it took out herself as well...."

<Gabriel> "Oh..." Cloud says, somewhat sadly... since he barely knew her

<Sanosuke> "At least she finnaly got rid of that bastard..."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods, although he barely understands

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth rose to his feet. "Now, to find the portals.

<Gabriel> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> Aeris held onto Cloud as they walked, Sephiroth leadning them on.

<Gabriel> Cloud comforts Aeris.. knowing that she is probably who he will end up with, in the end

<Sanosuke> they arrived at the portal room... and stopped. "Now.. to figure out which one would be to his world.."

<Gabriel> Cloud shrugs "we would have to go through... to find out wouldnt we?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded. "Yes... but not we, I... I don't want to risk your safety."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods... "okay... be careful..."

<Sanosuke> "I will... you two be careful as well..." Sephiroth smiled at them, and more so at Cloud.

<Gabriel> "we'll wait here.... until you come back..."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded and entered one portal near by.

<Gabriel> Cloud sniffles and waits.. fearing the worst for his friend

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth came back out of the portal soon after. "A strange world but not the one we're looking for I belive."

<Gabriel> "Should it be sealed?"

<Sanosuke> He shook his head. "No.. not dangerous.. just strange."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "alright"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth turned to the next portal. "That is my next target."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "be careful"

<Sanosuke> "I will be dear Cloud." Sephiroth stepped towards it.

<Gabriel> ~dear... cloud... oh how I wish that was... sincere~

<Sanosuke> It seemed very sincere as the silver-haired general entered the portal.

<Gabriel> Cloud watches him... and looks at Aeris, apologetically

<Sanosuke> Aeris looked at him but nodded her head. "You... like him a great deal don't you?"

<Gabriel> "Yes... Im sorry...."

<Sanosuke> "No, it's ok... I've.. I've know you... you're not into woman..."

<Gabriel> "But.. what about you?"

<Sanosuke> "I... I've been defiled.." She looked away and frowned.

<Gabriel> "Im sorry.. thats... my fault too..."

<Sanosuke> "No... it's not your fault... Cloud, none of it's your fault..."

<Gabriel> "Yes.. it is.. Father loved me more... and punished Rufus... If.. If I didnt ... exist.. maybe it wouldnt have.. happened"

<Sanosuke> "It's not your fault you exist... Cloud...."

<Gabriel> "I know.. but... my mother died... when I was young... probably.. she was weakened by childbirth... "

<Sanosuke> "Cloud.... you'll never be happy if you blame yourself for things you can't change."

<Gabriel> "I wish I could... he.. he's so..."

<Sanosuke> "So?"

<Gabriel> "heartless... broken.. I wish..."

<Sanosuke> "Your... evil brother?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth fell through the portal and lay panting on the ground at Cloud's feet.

<Gabriel> "Seph!" Cloud squeaks and kneels to check him "what.. happened?"

<Sanosuke> "I think... that's the right... world." He stood up slowly, wounds healing like they had never been.

<Gabriel> "We'll have to seal it then... as soon as you put him back"

<Sanosuke> "Yes.... and keep the seal..." Sephiroth breathed deaply. "Time to fetch Serge."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods

<Sanosuke> The general started back up to the throne room where they had Serge kept as a prisonar.

<Gabriel> Serge looks... bored.. and unhappy with his current position

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth put his hand on the containment feild then started to walk... Serge now following in the field.

<Gabriel> "I feel like a child being sent off to school... mommy has to drag me all the way..." serge mutters

<Sanosuke> "Your world actually has such a thing?"

<Gabriel> "Not really... just drawing on something your little human brain would understand

<Sanosuke> "I didn't think so... I visited the world I belive is yours... or in any event.. where I'm sealing you to..."

<Gabriel> "Oh.. so if its not the right one Im screwed... I love you so much Sephiroth..."

<Sanosuke> "You have earned it.." They got down to the portal rooms.

<Gabriel> "Did that blonde earn it too?"

<Sanosuke> "Earn what?"

<Gabriel> "Getting tossed back to his world when youre done with him..

<Gabriel>

<Sanosuke> "You're an evil bastard.. no return to the world of evil." Sephiroth shoved him through the portal after removing the field.

<Gabriel> "Seal it before he gets back through.."

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth did so, casting a huge ball of light at the portal to seal it.

<Gabriel> The portal crackles and is gone... unopenable save to the most skilled of creators

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth fell to his knees. "Such power..."

<Gabriel> "What... are you gonna do now Seph? Send me home and.. seal me away too.. like you ought to"

<Sanosuke> "No... I can't do that to you... your world... it's in trouble to is it not?"

<Gabriel> "Yeah.. Rufus... "

<Gabriel> "Seph.. now that youre safe... I have to go back and face Rufus..."

<Sanosuke> "Cloud.... do you truly care for your brother dispite all he's done to you?"

<Gabriel> "Yes... he is my brother... and its my fault.. he's the way he is"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded. "This power... I have inside me.... I... I don't need or want it..." he placed his hands on Cloud's shoulders. "But you... you can use it to heal your brother completely... in the way he needs."

<Gabriel> "Seph.. I wouldnt know how to.."

<Sanosuke> "Cloud... you will in a momment..." He closed his eyes and they both started to glow.

<Gabriel> Cloud trembles a little... afraid of what Sephiroth is doing

<Sanosuke> The power seph had started to flow into Cloud, making him feel... energized.

<Gabriel> "It... feels weird.. Seph... but.. not bad"

<Sanosuke> Seph took away, all that power that serge wanted from him in Cloud. "I... It was in me but never meant for me... you can do so much more good with it then I."

<Gabriel> "t.. thank you Seph.. I will... Rufus.. he needs help"

<Sanosuke> "You can help him now... and when that's all done, please come see me, ok? I'll be waiting in this world, helping to fix things here."

<Gabriel> "okay" cloud says gives Sephiroth a quick hug "I dont think Aeris wants to go back, right away, will you take care of her?"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth nodded. "Sure. Good luck."

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles and heads for his home portal, hoping he can hep Rufus with this power he was given

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth waved him on and so did Aeris.

<Gabriel> Cloud steps through... and after a wave of dizziness.. is in his world

<Sanosuke> "So, you escaped..." Rufus was there waiting for him.

<Gabriel> "Everything is good there.... I came back to help you now..."

<Sanosuke> "To help me eh?"

<Gabriel> "Yes... I want to make you better.."

<Sanosuke> Rufus grinned darkly. "Yah, I'm sure..."

<Gabriel> "I do... I will do anything you want... if it will make you better..

<Sanosuke> "Then why didn't you just stay in the other world like a good little boy?"

<Gabriel> "Because I want to help you.."

<Sanosuke> "Then die already..." Rufus's eyes darkened, though it was just because of how he narrowed them... though Cloud could now tell it was with both layers of anger and hatered... actually feel it in him... knew even that he was truly insane.... not jsut cause he knew him but because he know knew from the power he had.

<Gabriel> "Would my death make you happy......... and make you not be a tryrant?"

<Sanosuke> "What?"

<Gabriel> "would it make you completely happy? Would you stop hurting inside if I died?"

<Sanosuke> "What's that supposed to mean?" he growled... and Cloud had his answer.. even if Cloud died Rufus would still be this way... it would just push him further and further over the edge till he wanted to hurt everyone... he could feel that about his brother.

<Gabriel> "You hurt inside... let me help you Rufus..." Cloud says... and puts out his hand

<Sanosuke> "Keep back..." Rufus was backing up.. as if a small frightened child.

<Gabriel> "No Rufus... I cant leave you like this.. you hurt.. and it makes me.. sad to know its my fault'

<Sanosuke> "Damn right it's your fault! Always was!!!"

<Gabriel> "I know... I grew up knowing.. and hurting...

<Sanosuke> "Good.. hurt... feel pain..."

<Gabriel> "I want to take yours away"

<Sanosuke> "How do you plan to do that? Kill me?"

<Gabriel> "No.. I can heal you"

<Sanosuke> "Yah right.." Rufus was backed up into a wall now.

<Gabriel> "No.. I can.. just let me"

<Sanosuke> "No..." Rufus growled... Cloud would have to touch him to get him to understand anything.

<Gabriel> Cloud puts his hand out "Just relax... I promise.. you'll stop hurting"

<Sanosuke> "I don't trust you... you've always caused me nothing but pain.." Rufus stayed backed against the wall.

<Gabriel> "Shh.... just let me touch you"

<Sanosuke> Rufus shivered, but Cloud was close enough now to reach out and touch him.

<Gabriel> Cloud puts a hand on Rufus' shoulder

<Sanosuke> Rufus shivered but a light white poured into him... a healing light.

<Gabriel> Cloud pulls his brother close and hugs him, letting his powers do thier work

<Sanosuke> Rufus's eyes changed.. not in color but in mood.... from that rage and hate to confusion and relaxing...

<Gabriel> "See... dont you feel better?"

<Sanosuke> "B-brother?"

<Gabriel> "I love you Rufus, as my brother, I wish.. those things hadnt happened.... this is the best I can do...

<Sanosuke> Rufus breathed slowly, no longer panting in rage... but calming.

<Gabriel> "do you feel better now?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes.... feel... don't know.. how to... explain..."

<Gabriel> "good... I want you to have what you deserve Rufus..."

<Sanosuke> "Deserve?"

<Gabriel> "I want you to have the crown.. I... wouldnt be good as king"

<Sanosuke> "You... giving it to me?"

<Gabriel> "Yes... you deserve it.. "

<Sanosuke> "After all I did to you?"

<Gabriel> "Yes, you are my brother, and I have always forgiven you... "

<Sanosuke> Rufus closed his eyes and cried softly on Cloud's shoulder.

<Gabriel> Cloud comforts his brother smiling because the poor guy can finally be at peace

<Sanosuke> It took a few days for everyone to adjust to the new Rufus... the one that didn't carry around the rage and pain he had before.

<Gabriel> "Rufus... I have to go see Sephiroth now.. i promised.. and I guess I should bring Aeris back..."

<Sanosuke> "Aeris prolly still hates me... but I understand your wish to return to Sephiroth. Take care, alright?"

<Gabriel> Cloud nods "I will... Sephiroth.. probably just wants to get permission to seal off his world from ours" Cloud says quietly... still beleiving seph doesnt want or need him

<Sanosuke> "I doubt that.. why would we need to seal off the two worlds?"

<Gabriel> "Maybe.. he feels his world needs to be away from our world to grow.. who knows.. I'll see you Rufus"

<Sanosuke> Rufus hugged him and smiled... it was so different to so him smile but nice.

<Gabriel> Cloud waves and heads for the portal, stepping through into Sephiroth's world after one last wave to Rufus

<Sanosuke> The castle actually had people in it now... Sephiroth's troops... repairing it.

<Gabriel> Cloud looks around... somewhat amazed at the changes that have already occurred

<Sanosuke> "Oh Cloud!" Aeris chimmed, seeing him, then instantly hugging him.

<Gabriel> "Hello Aeris, you seem to be doing a lot better now.."

<Sanosuke> "Yah... we've all been working really hard."

<Gabriel> "Wheres Seph?"

<Sanosuke> "Prolly outside working with the troops."

<Gabriel> Cloud nods and hugs Aeris again before going to look for him

<Sanosuke> Aeris lead Cloud to the outside training area where Sephiroth was grilling the troops.

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles, watching Sephiroth's mastery of his skills

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth stopped it all when he saw Cloud. He lowerd his blade and smiled. "You.. came back."

<Gabriel> "You asked me to, didnt you"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth handed his troops off to another soldier and went over to Cloud. "I didn't know if you really would come back."

<Gabriel> "I try to keep promises... as best I can"

<Gabriel> "I just wanted to make sure my brother was settled in... "

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth hugged him. "I... I'm glad you've come back."

<Gabriel> "Is there a reason you wanted me to come back?" Cloud says, hugging back tightly

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth put him down. "Cloud.. what do you think of me?"

<Gabriel> "I admire you so much Sephiroth.. I think youre... the most amazing person Ive ever been around...."

<Sanosuke> "I mean.. more then that..."

<Gabriel> "You mean... do.. I... ?"

<Sanosuke> "Yes... I want to know."

<Gabriel> "Yes... I do.. Ive been... since.. its kind of silly.. I hardly know you... maybe its just lust..." Cloud mumbles

<Sanosuke> "Maybe.. but.. do you want to see... if it can be more?"

<Gabriel> "I would like that very much... Sephiroth"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth took his hand. "So would I."

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles broadly "thank you, for giving me a chance"

<Sanosuke> "I think.. it's one we both need.."

<Gabriel> "yes, but are you sure you are ready... having lost not so long ago?"

<Sanosuke> "I know... but... we both need it... and Zack... I know he'll be happy as long as I am."

<Gabriel> Cloud loops his arms around Sephiroth and hugs him again, happier than he's been in a long time

<Sanosuke> Seph held him close, and smiled.

<Gabriel> "Now I can learn to live.. with you... a dream come true ... surely.."

<Sanosuke> "And live in this world we are rebuilding?"

<Gabriel> "Yes.. I want to stay with you here... I will visit my brother, but... this is where you belong.... and I suppose I belong here with you :

<Sanosuke> "Then help me work on this castle.."

<Gabriel> "I will... even though Im not strong... I'll get stronger"

<Sanosuke> "I will train you... and that power you now have... you're an angel to me now."

<Gabriel> "An angel... " Cloud says with a chuckle "yes... but.. I dont think I'll use it unless I really have to'"

<Sanosuke> "That's good... power can be bad in the wrong hands.. but I think yours are perfect."

<Gabriel> "Why do you think that? Most people think Im a spoiled brat..."

<Sanosuke> "Because I know you're not a spoiled brat.. you are better then that."

<Gabriel> "Im glad you think so, that is why I gave the crown to Rufus..."

<Sanosuke> "You're kind inside... pure.. perfect..."

<Gabriel> "Kind.. pure.. perfect... well... only sort of...

<Sanosuke> "To me you are."

<Gabriel> "So where do we start now?"

<Sanosuke> "How about... with a kiss?"

<Gabriel> "A kiss... yes.. that sounds wonderful"

<Sanosuke> Sephiroth leaned forward to him.,

<Gabriel> Cloud leans in a little as well, nearly bursting with joy that Sephiroth really wants him

<Sanosuke> The real kiss... was nothing like when Cloud was allowed to use him that day... it was sweet.. and warm.

<Gabriel> Cloud nearly melts... his knees almost buckling

<Sanosuke> Seph stroked the blonde spikes. "Come on... time to go to your new home."

<Gabriel> "New home... " cloud murmurs... still a bit dazed

<Sanosuke> "With me.."

<Gabriel> Cloud smiles and just about clings to Seph