{revival}

[[ INACTIVE RP BLOG. If you would like to rp with this Zack, leave a message, and I'll link you to the new independent account for him. I apologize for the inconvenience, and will reply to you as soon as I can. ]] || тσ нєlρ α ƒяιєη∂... || Zack Fair, former SOLDIER First Class, is given the opportunity to return to Gaia in order to aid his best friend and the legacy that would help save the Planet time and time again. By the Will of the Lifestream and the blessing of the goddess Minerva, he is equipped with the means to swoop in and rescue the delivery boy from certain death. The two friends retire to the inn of Nibelheim to rest and heal, and this second life begins to take root and grow... ||a hero's revival}}

[dxcarchives]

aspiring-hero replied to your photo: “………”

“Zack— what are you doing in a… trashcan?”

[aspiringxxhero]

“….hiding.”

[dxcarchives]

“…Heh…”

[aspiringxxhero]

[dxcarchives]

aspiring-hero replied to your photo: “………”

“Zack— what are you doing in a… trashcan?”

[aspiringxxhero]

"....hiding."

[aspiringxxhero]

Tumblr Crushes:

doublexcut

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megaxflare

traiwielder

prideofasoldier

infected-essai

devotedlittlebaker

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[aspiringxxhero]

Late night stroll.

[4/4/12 6:15:26 PM] Cloud Strife: -crawls under the covers of Zack's bed, hides and clings to his pillow- ._. -curls up and closes his eyes, awaiting sleep-

[4/4/12 6:17:32 PM] Zack Fair: ....-blinks himself awake, looking over blearily at the other-....? -turns to lie on his side some- Mn?

[4/4/12 6:19:03 PM] Cloud Strife: ....... ///;; -curls up more, sliding further under the covers-

[4/4/12 6:20:26 PM] Zack Fair: ....You feeling okay? -rubs his eyes some, shaking off sleep-

[4/4/12 6:22:29 PM] Cloud Strife: -squirms sheepishly, voice muffled with the blanket mostly covering his head- ...I... I'm fine .///.

[4/4/12 6:24:38 PM] Zack Fair: ...~? Uh-huh....-pats the lump under the covers that was the other's head- You sure about that? Need me to get you something~?

[4/4/12 6:27:03 PM] Cloud Strife: -shakes his slightly, shifting a little closer- ...No... I'm fine. ////;; -quietly-

[4/4/12 6:33:42 PM] Zack Fair: -nods to himself, amused but receptive- ...Alright. -slides a hand around the blanketed lump, inviting- If there's anything on your mind, I'm listening, alright?

[4/4/12 6:45:47 PM] Cloud Strife: -tentatively scoots even closer, pressing against the other a little- Mn... // I know. -softly-

[4/4/12 6:48:35 PM] Zack Fair: -slides his hand up and down at a slow pace, comfortable with the company-....~

[4/4/12 6:52:54 PM] Cloud Strife: -sighs softly, content as he slips his arms loosely around Zack's middle- // ~ .... -remains silent, forehead resting against the other's shoulder- ...Zack? -murmurs quietly-

[4/4/12 6:54:47 PM] Zack Fair: Mn? Yeah? -focuses on Cloud with a small smile, curious-

[4/4/12 7:00:42 PM] Cloud Strife: ...I... I can just want... this... c-can't I? ////;; -nervously, unsure what exactly "this" implied for them, just... wanting to remain close. He had kept thinking about the other night and how... comforting it had been, how /nice/ it had felt-

[4/4/12 7:15:12 PM] Zack Fair: -admittedly unclear on what might've been going through Cloud's head, he blinked in an attempt to absorb the question- Want "this?" -it could've meant a lot of things, intimate or not...- Ah...not sure what "this" means- in your head anyway, but you can "want" whatever....;

[4/4/12 7:31:56 PM] Cloud Strife: -fidgets uncomfortably and tightens his arms around Zack- ...m-maybe //;

[4/4/12 7:35:42 PM] Zack Fair: ......-slowly lifts a hand up, resigning to rest it on the other's shoulder while gently squeezing- Only maybe?

[4/4/12 7:39:49 PM] Cloud Strife: -blinks, hesitantly glancing up at Zack- ...... // ; -diverts his gaze, lightly chewing his lip as he tries to think of what to say- ...I don't really know... -quietly-

[4/4/12 7:44:59 PM] Zack Fair: -grins a bit, trying to encourage as he lightly tapped the other's jawline to see if he could catch his gaze again- Well, whaddya mean by "this" anyway? Kind of a loaded word, don't you think?

[4/4/12 7:55:16 PM] Cloud Strife: -eyes widen slightly at the tap, taken aback a little as he shyly drifts his gaze back up- ...... // -blinks slowly, chin tilting down- I... well... -cheeks flushed a little with warmth as fingers clenched his shirt- "Th... this?" -hugs him tightly, sheepishly resting his forehead against Zack's cheek-

[4/4/12 8:11:10 PM] Zack Fair: -smiles with the gesture, subtly nuzzling against him as he paused to think. There was a general sense of relief that went with it, his simple explanation, comforting- .....Hah. Well, I can give you "this" pretty easy~. -then, as an after thought- ...I want "this" too. -shifts the hand at Cloud's shoulder to wrap around him a little more securely-

[4/4/12 8:15:00 PM] Cloud Strife: -smiles softly, a little assured as he nuzzles gently to Zack's cheek- // ...Thanks, Zack. -murmurs quietly as he closes his eyes-

[4/4/12 8:22:48 PM] Zack Fair: Yeah...-looks down at the other, thoughtful- Anytime, Cloud.

[4/4/12 8:50:51 PM] Cloud Strife: -lays contently against Zack, hands sliding up his back- Mn...~

[4/4/12 9:58:17 PM] Zack Fair: -closes his eyes and relaxes under the gentle touch, fingers clutching at the blanket covering the other as a reflex- So you're feeling better? Your injuries, I mean.

[4/4/12 10:03:36 PM] Cloud Strife: -reopens his eyes to glance up at Zack- Yeah... I feel fine now. -quietly-

[4/4/12 10:14:17 PM] Zack Fair: Well that's good news~. -smirks at the other, mako blues reopening to meet with the Cloud's-  I was worried I'd have to bring the doctor back around to check you out~.

[4/4/12 10:20:50 PM] Cloud Strife: -huffs lightly, meeting Zack's eyes with a gentle gaze- That won't be necessary. I've been taking a potion most nights... Kind of sick of them.

[4/4/12 10:30:53 PM] Zack Fair: Mn~ I bet. -looks to the side in playful thought, then back to Cloud, smiling- Well, do you think you wanna try for a late night stroll? Or...~?

[4/4/12 10:38:18 PM] Cloud Strife: Hmn... -smiles softly- Sure. A walk would be nice... -gently squeezes the other before loosening his arms- Unless you had something else in mind?

[4/4/12 11:03:18 PM] Zack Fair: -grins excitedly, shifting away slowly to sit up, a hand lingering on the other's arm- Walking around together sounds like fun~. We just need to get you back in the motion of things! Small steps and all~. Sound good? -reaches over the edge of the bed for his boots, watching the other-

[4/4/12 11:06:50 PM] Cloud Strife: Yeah. -blinks, lying still a long moment as he watches the other before he slowly sits up and slips off Zack's bed to walk toward his to look for his own boots- Sounds fine

[4/4/12 11:32:20 PM] Zack Fair: Good deal! -grins over at the other, lacing up his boots quickly, then rising to wait for the other-

[4/5/12 12:00:14 AM] Cloud Strife: -finding his boots, he sits to put them on, quickly lacing them and standing once he was done- Okay. -steps toward Zack with a small smile- Let's go

[4/5/12 12:15:16 AM] Zack Fair: -still a little concerned, he inherently looked the other over for signs of pain or anything of the sort. Satisfied, he nods, then eagerly marches towards the door, leading Cloud out- Fresh air might do you better than potions right now anyway....-thoughtfully, partially to himself-

[4/5/12 12:19:20 AM] Cloud Strife: Hn. -smiles lightly as he follows after the other, silently agreeing. He was really tired of potions... Only so many healing items he could take for any given injury before feeling a little disoriented for a few after taking a potion-

[4/5/12 12:22:18 AM] Zack Fair: -once  out of the room, he steps lightly over to the stairs, skipping down a few to pause and wait for Cloud, ever protective of his friend. He covered up his watchfulness however, attempted at least, by smirking and shaking his head in amusement- Man, you move any slower, and the sun'll beat us outside~.

[4/5/12 12:26:27 AM] Cloud Strife: Hmph. -narrows his eyes down at the other as he moved down the stairs at an average pace, not to exert himself too much as sudden deep breaths still hurt a little- I could arrange that...

[4/5/12 12:30:27 AM] Zack Fair: Whoa- -sobering quickly, he moves a little closer to Cloud, hands held out in a natural reaction should the other fall. His light-hearted smile returns, encouraging now- Well, I guess I wouldn't mind catching the sunrise with you, so...don't tire yourself out before we get to the fun stuff. Hah~...

[4/5/12 12:32:13 AM] Cloud Strife: -smirks lightly, lifting his hands to playfully push Zack's arms back to his sides as he makes the last step- I'm not going to trip and fall down the stairs. -brushes past him, fingers trailing gently from the other as he turns for the door-

[4/5/12 12:37:16 AM] Zack Fair: -quirks a brow, pleased with his retort- Mn~ -he watched the other walk by a moment with a small smile, then stepped up ahead in a delayed move to grab the door for him to head outside-

[4/5/12 12:41:12 AM] Cloud Strife: -scoffs as Zack fetches the door and steps out first, mako blues lingering on the other with a quirked brow- Holding doors for me, too? -smirk-

[4/5/12 12:47:43 AM] Zack Fair: -shrugs, grinning as he held up his free hand defensively- What, I can't do nice things for you out of the bedroom? Not like I'm holding your hand the whole way~. -smiles...sheepishly, rethinking his wording after a second-

[4/5/12 12:55:02 AM] Cloud Strife: -feels a faint warmth crawl up his cheeks at the comment, sheepishly diverting his gaze as he lightly pushes the other away a little, fighting a little smile- Try saying that again, not sure I heard you -dryly-

[4/5/12 1:03:35 AM] Zack Fair: -at the shove, he relaxes and focuses back on the other, chuckling quietly as he let the door shut behind them- The bit about sleeping with you, or the hands thing? -smirks wistfully, nudging the other lightly in the arm before looking about the sleepy town- ....Quiet little place.

[4/5/12 5:08:38 AM] Cloud Strife: -opens his mouth to respond, only to find he really had no comment, cheeks still lightly flushed- ....... -pause- Ah, yeah... -casually- It's.... no different. -frowns-

[4/6/12 12:47:51 AM] Zack Fair: "No different?" Than what? -glances back over at him, smiling warmly- I kinda like it, to be honest. Just you and me running around~!

[4/6/12 1:04:18 AM] Cloud Strife: -shakes his head slightly, mako blue hues drifting over the dimly lit town- ...Nibelheim. -quietly- ...... -looks up at Zack, reaching out to touch his arm lightly- I wanna show you something.

[4/6/12 1:07:16 AM] Zack Fair: -blinks at him confusedly for a moment, then curiously, he nods then cants his head some- Hm?

[4/6/12 1:22:17 AM] Cloud Strife: -gently grabs the other by the wrist and tugs him toward the center of town, to the well-

[4/6/12 1:23:30 AM] Cloud Strife: This way.

[4/6/12 1:27:52 AM] Zack Fair: -tugged, he falls in step beside Cloud, looking on before them, fairly happy with the little surprise, whatever it might be- ....~

[4/6/12 2:03:33 AM] Cloud Strife: -stops at the foot of the well, fingers still curled around Zack's wrist as he glances up- ...I meant that the town hasn't changed at all since I grew up here. -softly- Even though the fire destroyed everything. -hesitates a long moment, fingers tightening around his wrist- This... -turns his head to seek Zack's gaze, continuing just as Mako blues meet- this well is the place I spent most of my time when I was a kid. I'd climb to the top and sit at night, just watch the town and the sky.

[4/15/12 1:16:47 AM] Cloud Strife: [4/6/2012 12:21:12 AM] Zack Fair: Oh...-he nodded in understanding, stopping at the well as Cloud did. With mention of the fire, Zack's gaze shifts from the well onto Cloud, quiet as he listened and took in the other's expression. A small smile touched his lips as the other met with his eyes, warmed by the little fact of his childhood- Stargazing type, huh? -his smile broadened some, looking back to the well, then further up towards the sky thoughtfully-....definitely a nice view, I'll bet~

[4/6/2012 1:13:45 AM] Cloud Strife: -watches him a long moment in silence before gently tugging him toward the ladder- Yeah... Let's go. -softly-

[4/15/12 1:18:18 AM] Zack Fair: Alright. -blinks, grinning eagerly- You first though~. -gently tugs his hand free from the other to pat his back in encouragement-

[4/15/12 1:25:03 AM] Cloud Strife: -blinks, surprised slightly by the gesture, and glances up at Zack- ...Yeah. -steps up closer to the ladder and slowly climbs it, pacing himself with his ribs in mind. Once he reaches the top, he slides up and turns to sit on the edge, scooting down a bit to give Zack room-

[4/15/12 1:52:48 AM] Zack Fair: -tentatively keeping an eye on his friend, he smiles as the other shifted and settled, following after him up the ladder. He shifted along the edge to sit in the space beside Cloud, looking out over the town and the landscape with excitement and interest clear on his smiling expression-

[4/15/12 1:55:56 AM] Cloud Strife: -tilts his head up to the sky, he props one heel up on the edge in front of him, his other leg dangling in front of him- ...I used to come up here all the time, when I was a kid. -quietly-

[4/16/12 11:18:48 PM] Zack Fair: -swinging his feet freely over the edge, Zack looked to the sky as well, breathtaken with the clear view of the stars. It'd been years since he'd seen the sky so clearly...As Cloud spoke, he nodded some, listening curiously- ....Just to hang out?

[4/16/12 11:25:51 PM] Cloud Strife: ...Yeah... -leans against his knee lightly, one arm slung around his leg- I never really got along with most of the other kids. -shrugs lightly, eyes fixed absently on the sky- So... nn.

[4/16/12 11:43:14 PM] Zack Fair: Hm...-looking over at Cloud now, he smiled a shook his head- Guess those other kids missed out on having a great friend, huh? Hah~

[4/16/12 11:46:59 PM] Cloud Strife: -blinks, surprised by that- ? -turns his head to look up at Zack- I dunno... I wasn't the nicest kid. -turns his head away to look ahead with slightly furrowed brows-

[4/17/12 3:00:44 AM] Zack Fair: So? Bet you had a reason. -nods thoughtfully, still watching Cloud with a small smile- If I were those guys, I would've tried to know you better anyway.

[4/18/12 7:16:46 AM] Cloud Strife: -stifles a small scoff, not surprised in the least for the comment- Because you're a rare breed, Zack. -smiles faintly, shifting a little to comfortably lean a little against the other, gaze drifting up to the sky again- It's just... I never was interested in being friends with the local kids... except maybe... Tifa. -quietly-

[4/18/12 9:26:22 AM] Zack Fair: Hah~ -he happily supported the other, leaning a little back. With mention of Tifa, Zack's expression became more thoughtful, nodding- I remember you mentioning something like that. You two were pretty close, right?

[4/18/12 9:58:31 AM] Cloud Strife: ...I don't know if we were ever really close, not back then, anyway... Just, she was the only one who was ever... /nice/ to me. She was popular and maybe, as a kid, it got to her head a little, but she was never unkind. -shrugs and lowers his gaze to his lap- //; She was the last person I talked to before leaving Nibelheim when I was fourteen. I didn't even say good-bye to my mom, just left her a note saying I would write her as soon as I got to Midgar. -quietly- I didn't want her to stop me.

[4/18/12 10:17:54 AM] Zack Fair: -nods, silently listening as his gaze drifted upwards to the sky now- She sounds like she was a good buddy to have around at home~. -pauses, grinning a little as Cloud mentioned his mom- So did you write her? She say anything to you?

[4/18/12 10:23:08 AM] Cloud Strife: I... I wrote her, yeah. I didn't want her to worry. I didn't write her all that often, though. Got too distracted with work. -shifts a little closer, turning his head to look up at Zack- What about you?

[4/18/12 12:54:57 PM] Zack Fair: Good then~...-glances over at Cloud as he moved closer, humming in thought- Mn, I ran away from home without really telling anyone when I was 13. -he shrugged a little, now wondering how his family was doing- I didn't tell my parents where I was until I was a First Class and had a girlfriend. Hah~

[4/18/12 1:45:51 PM] Cloud Strife: -tearing his gaze from Zack to awkwardly look down toward the town below with a small smile that didn't quite reach his eyes- Yeah... -his brows furrow and he closes his eyes, smile fading to a small frown- ...You know... -shifts a little awkwardly, unsure whether or not he should tell Zack- We saw your parents in Gongaga, while traveling in search of Sephiroth. -hangs his head a little more, dropping his knee to let his foot dangle with the other- ......

[4/18/12 2:19:43 PM] Zack Fair: ....you did? -a hand combed back through his hair, trying to see if he remembered anything from before Aerith joining the lifestream- .... -coming up with very little to nothing, he bowed his head some to try and catch the other's gaze, curious and light-hearted- Bet they welcomed you in like family, right? My mom loves cooking for company...-pauses- ....how were they doing?

[4/18/12 3:52:55 PM] Cloud Strife: Yeah... -bites his lip a little and fidgets, gaze still fixed at their dangling feet- They seemed okay... -closes his eyes- Though, they missed you. -softly-

[4/18/12 4:01:28 PM] Zack Fair: ...did they know what happened? -he figured it was unlikely, but it was worth asking. Taking his turn to move closer, he slipped an arm around the other's shoulders, watching him in mild concern- They didn't ask you a ton of questions, did they? Both of 'em really like chatting...;;

[4/18/12 4:12:09 PM] Cloud Strife: At the time, I didn't really know how to answer... -quietly, brows furrowing- ...... -leans further against Zack, wrapping his arms loosely around his stomach- Aerith was there...

[4/18/12 4:13:17 PM] Cloud Strife: But... They... knew you were... gone. You know. ;; Shinra... announced you were KIA.

[4/18/12 4:23:59 PM] Zack Fair: -nods slowly, fully hugging the other close without thinking- Right...Hm. Haha, you /and/ Aerith met them, huh? -grins a little- That makes you guys part of the family, by their logic. -rolls his eyes in light hearted amusement, briefly recalling Cissnei's visit-

[4/18/12 4:26:01 PM] Cloud Strife: //; I... I guess. -reopens his eyes and sheepishly looks up at Zack-

[4/18/12 4:31:15 PM] Zack Fair: -smiles warmly, pleased to see the other's eyes once more- Thanks for telling me that. It's nice to know~. -pauses, then adds- Well, all of this is kinda nice to hear. Learning about your childhood and all.

[4/18/12 4:44:07 PM] Cloud Strife: -blinks, a little surprised by Zack's gratitude- ...? -eyes search Zack's- It's... nothing worthy of thanks.... //;;;

[4/18/12 4:53:25 PM] Zack Fair: Well...I like knowing that kind of thing, I guess. -slips the hand around the other's shoulders up through his hair, ruffling lightly- And honesty's always worth thanks, y'know~ -chuckles warmly-

[4/18/12 5:26:12 PM] Cloud Strife: -sighs softly, comforted by the gesture, and leans into the touch a moment before catching himself and sheepishly looking away- ///; I-I guess.

[4/18/12 5:32:17 PM] Zack Fair: Heh~ -grins a little goofily at the other's reaction, looking away as well to turn his gaze skyward- You're healing up pretty nicely. We should do this more often~.

[4/18/12 5:46:35 PM] Cloud Strife: -closes his eyes and rests his head on Zack's shoulder- // Yeah... this is nice. -reopens his eyes to glance outward at the landscape-

[4/18/12 5:50:20 PM] Zack Fair: -smiles to himself, then after a moment's silence, he keeps his tone quiet, curious- What's your favorite part about your home?

[4/18/12 6:20:19 PM] Cloud Strife: Mm? -blinks, tightening his arms around himself- Well, honestly, I don't know. -frowns- I guess the air and... the sky here... I can't say I like much of anything here, certainly not anymore... -speaking in hushed tones- Not... to say I hate it... but... All the memories here... -shivers a little and draws a knee back up to prop his heel on the edge- Just too much sadness. -murmurs just barely more than a breath, his expression falling a bit as sky blue hues drift to the home that stands where his old home once had, identical but never the same- ......

[4/18/12 8:59:32 PM] Zack Fair: -the smallest hint of sadness touched his smile, lifting an ungloved hand up to brush his knuckles gently over Cloud's cheek, an attempt to catch his attention as he matched his quiet tone- Hey, I'm sorry. -a little warmer, he added as an afterthought- ...But you're right- the sky out here's pretty amazing...~

[4/18/12 9:06:40 PM] Cloud Strife: -blinks at the gentle contact, taken by surprise, and lifts his gaze to meet Zack's. It was impossible to ignore the slight flutter the touch had ignited in him, sky blues wide as they meet Zack's- ......Y-yeah... it is. -softly- ////;;

[4/18/12 9:51:04 PM] Zack Fair: Mn~. -smirks a little, excited by the blond's reaction and the surprise in his eyes. Pushing aside the tension with some effort, he ruffled up the other's hair playfully with a laugh- Lemme know when you wanna go in, alright? I kinda like it out here with you, so...no rush? Hah~

[4/18/12 10:00:05 PM] Cloud Strife: -ducks a little from Zack's assault on his spikes, lifting a hand to loosely grab the other's wrist- H-hey--! ///; -playfully pulls it from his hair, eyes drifting from Zack's to his arm- Nn...~

[4/18/12 10:17:37 PM] Zack Fair: -grins with another laugh at the other's defense, tilting his head some to follow his gaze. A curious silence followed, just watching with a content smile- Heh~...

[4/18/12 10:22:38 PM] Cloud Strife: -blinks, realizing after a long moment they hadn't moved, and slowly drifts his gaze back to meet Zack's gaze- ... ? // -fingers tighten around Zack's wrist, eyes fixed on the other in shy curiosity, wondering what he was thinking... feeling right then-

[4/18/12 11:09:14 PM] Zack Fair: ....Hey. -softly, letting his gaze float from Cloud's hand on his wrist back up to his eyes. It had definitely been a good night, but this little exchange felt...good. Like the comforting night spent sleeping with Cloud in his arms; And he wasn't sure what to make of it- ....

[4/18/12 11:36:21 PM] Cloud Strife: H... hey -quietly, eyes fixed on the other's as a small, shy smile touched his lips. Uncertainty picked at him a little, but overall... this, whatever this was, felt good... and he found himself at a loss at what to do... or not to do at this point- /// ...

[4/18/12 11:51:31 PM] Zack Fair: -very gentle in his movements, he twisted his wrist some to loosen Cloud's hold on his wrist, to maybe find a more comfortable position? Otherwise, his focus was on Cloud's face, the color in his eyes, the softest details, subtle changes in expression...- ...Kinda nice to grab fresh air finally, huh?

[4/18/12 11:56:21 PM] Cloud Strife: -blinks at the movement, gently loosening his grip around Zack's wrist as his smile widens a fraction, eyes wandering a little over the other's features in the dim moonlight- ...Yeah... yeah, it is...

[4/19/12 1:07:17 AM] Zack Fair: Getting a little cold though...-without thinking much of it, he slipped his newly freed hand into Cloud's, threading his fingers through securely. It was a small gesture, but it felt right, comfortable. He sighed quietly in an anxious excitement, not sure how Cloud might take the bold little move- ...

[4/19/12 1:15:14 AM] Cloud Strife: Y-yeah...? /// -curls his fingers around Zack's shyly, fingers gently squeezing the other's. A fluttering of his heart gave way his own nervous excitement, unsure what else to expect of the current situation- Did you... wanna go back inside...? -softly-

[4/19/12 1:45:46 AM] Zack Fair: Mn...-shifting closer to the other, he shook his head and shrugged slightly- I'm...comfortable. We'll leave whenever you want.

[4/19/12 7:59:12 AM] Cloud Strife: -at Zack's response, he tilts his head slightly in question- Well... if you're sure... -gives his hand a gentle squeeze as he nervously leans in a little closer, lifting his free hand to tentatively touch Zack's cheek, tenderly tracing his thumb across smooth skin-

[4/19/12 9:36:36 AM] Zack Fair: Yeah...-remaining still for the other, he exhaled slowly, relaxing under the little inspection with his trademark smile- I'm sure. -subtly leaning into Cloud's hand, he took a moment to think to himself. He wasn't exactly sure where they were now, not just as friends but...-

[4/19/12 9:36:52 AM] Zack Fair: ....What are you thinking? -quietly, curiously-

[4/19/12 9:51:59 AM] Cloud Strife: -opens his mouth to respond, but hesitates, unsure how to put his thoughts to words, and frowns thoughtfully a moment- Mn... -drifts his gaze a moment before he smiles a little sheepishly- ...Wondering what all this... is-- how close can I get before it's too much? Or is there no limit? I... I don't know... -shyly meets his gaze again, fingers gently tracing over the scar on his cheek-

[4/19/12 11:40:55 AM] Zack Fair: -nods a little in agreement with the questions, lifting his other hand to cover and hold Cloud's in place over his scar so he could think- ....I don't think there's a limit. This is...pretty nice. Unexpected, maybe, but...-grins broadly as he let the hand on his face alone, then squeezed the hand he held in his- I think I like the idea.

[4/19/12 1:04:21 PM] Cloud Strife: -blinks, slightly confused by his response. He wasn't... sure? But then, he wasn't either-- sure about these unfamiliar feelings, that is- Yeah...? -shifts closer a moment, as if considering something, before sheepishly pulling back to rest against Zack's shoulder. His hand remained against Zack's cheek, taking in the warmth the other emitted- Hmn...~

[4/19/12 1:28:31 PM] Zack Fair: -watching him anxiously as he shifted closer, he  hummed quietly in thought and let Cloud settle against him- ...Haha~ Guess it's pretty obvious you'd wanna go out on a date with me or something, huh? -teasing and light, he smirks and playfully wiggles against the other, squeezing his hand gently once more-

[4/19/12 1:46:29 PM] Cloud Strife: H-huh? ////;; -eyes widen slightly as he's pulled from his confused thoughts by the word 'date,' his hand sliding from Zack's cheek to rest against his neck- Ah-- a... a date? -awkwardly, he glances up at the other, a sheepish smile tugging at his lips- ....Honestly, the... thought didn't really cross my mind-- kind of-- but... ;;; -sheepishly nuzzles against his shoulder and closes his eyes- ...That'd be nice.

[4/19/12 5:26:12 PM] Zack Fair: -blinks, not having expected his lame fishing attempt to have worked so well- Ah-- really? -sits up a little straighter, grinning widely at the success-- he didn't think he'd be /this/ excited- Then...a date it is! Hah...-leans against Cloud, nuzzling into his hair some with a goofy smile plastered on his face, laughing some-

[4/19/12 5:48:51 PM] Cloud Strife: ///// -scoffs lightly at Zack's reaction and slips his arm around the other's neck, hugging him close- ...Yeah. -nuzzles to his neck with a smile, stifling a laugh-

[4/20/12 1:21:53 AM] Zack Fair: -still grinning, he nudges the other's arm with his free hand, enjoying the warmth- Maybe we could walk around some place tomorrow or something. Still gotta focus on getting you patched up nicely~.

[4/20/12 10:27:41 AM] Cloud Strife: -reopens his eyes and lifts his head to meet Zack's gaze- I'm fine, though. -smirks lightly and gently pulls his hand free of Zack's, lifting it to slip around his middle-

[4/20/12 2:31:37 PM] Zack Fair: Whatever, I watched you climb that ladder. You've still got some kinks to work out~. -welcomes the small change in positioning with a smile, sliging his arm around the other's shoulders comfortably- I don't want you getting worse or something...~

[4/20/12 2:48:54 PM] Cloud Strife: I wasn't that bad.... :T -leans against him with a small sigh, resting his forehead against Zack's cheek- Mm... I'm getting a lil cold. -quietly-

[4/20/12 2:52:40 PM] Zack Fair: -chuckles quietly, threading his hand up into blond spikes to hold him close- Let's get you inside then.

[4/20/12 3:00:43 PM] Cloud Strife: Mn. -closes his eyes, unmoving- Yeah. -lightly nudges him with a small smile- You first.

[4/20/12 3:24:24 PM] Zack Fair: -with a slight ruffle of his hair, he pulls away from Cloud to shift over and make his way down the ladder. A few rungs from the bottom, he hops off, then turns to beam up at the blond-

[4/20/12 4:01:08 PM] Cloud Strife: -watches him a moment before slowly standing up and stretching a little, ignoring the discomfort it caused him. Then, he stepped toward the ladder and climbed down, dropping off at the end and turning to look up at Zack-

[4/20/12 4:03:05 PM] Zack Fair: -satisfied, he held a hand out to the other and nodded towards the inn- back in bed with you~. last thing you need is a cold. Hah~.

[4/20/12 4:14:06 PM] Cloud Strife: :T -takes his offered hand and steps along beside him- I won't get a cold. -smiles, though, and threads his fingers through Zack's- //

[4/20/12 4:26:27 PM] Zack Fair: Of course not! -laces his fingers through Cloud's, hiding his sheepish smile with a teasing roll of his eyes- Because I'm taking you inside now~.

[4/20/12 4:31:26 PM] Cloud Strife: -scoffs- Yeah, alright. -dryly- Then let's go. -lightly pokes Zack's stomach with his free hand-

[4/21/12 7:11:02 PM] Zack Fair: -unfazed by the poke, he grins broadly and laughs at the other's tone, heppily leading him back towards the inn-

[4/22/12 9:36:41 AM] Cloud Strife: -follows him willingly inside and, once in the room, begins unlacing his shoes as he moves, stopping when necessary to pull them off and set them aside-

[4/22/12 9:38:54 AM] Cloud Strife: -gingerly stretches his back as best he can without bothering his ribs and... sits on Zack's bed-

[4/23/12 12:26:02 AM] Zack Fair: -stays close to the other, holding the door where necessary before finally coming into their room, elbowing the door closed as he watched Cloud quietly. He wasn't sure where they were now, but wherever it was, he liked it. It was close, comfortable...nice. He refocused and stepped over to the bed, leaning on the end to unlace his boots as well, then kicked them off to the side. Propping a hand on his hip, he smiled over at Cloud, tone warm and a little teasing-

[4/23/12 12:26:24 AM] Zack Fair: Sleeping with me again?

[4/23/12 12:28:56 AM] Cloud Strife: -scoffs lightly and reaches out to grab Zack's wrist, tugging him toward the bed- You're not complaining, are you? -quirks a brow, a small smirk touching his lips-

[4/23/12 12:32:53 AM] Zack Fair: No~ -shrugs his shoulders and chuckles as he steps closer, shaking his head in amusement- More like double checking.

[4/23/12 12:38:07 AM] Cloud Strife: -smiles softly and lifts his other hand, grasping Zack's hands in his- ...I figure sneaking in while you were already asleep is a little silly... //

[4/23/12 12:43:55 AM] Zack Fair: Hah~ Only a little, since it's pretty much an open invitation. -grins a little wider as he bends down some to press a light kiss to the blonde's forehead, lingering thoughtfully-

[4/23/12 1:10:30 AM] Cloud Strife: -sky blues flutter open and shut a moment, surprised by the gesture- /// -stares up at Zack with a gentle, thoughtful gaze, fingers giving the other's a small squeeze in response- ...Yeah, but I guess... I just... didn't know how you'd react -quietly, a little sheepish-

[4/23/12 1:18:22 AM] Zack Fair: Mn. -pulls back some to return the gaze, shrugging a shoulder- I wouldn't turn you down for anything, Cloud~. Especially something simple like wanting a little company. Some friend I'd be, huh?

[4/23/12 1:26:32 AM] Cloud Strife: -blinks- ...I don't know, but... -releases a hand to lift one to Zack's cheek, gently brushing his thumb just under Zack's eye- I think... this extends a little beyond just friendship. /// -small, sheepish smile-

[4/23/12 2:09:53 AM] Zack Fair: -huffs a small laugh, his smile warming under the touch, leaning into it some while thinking about what Cloud was saying. The thought excited him, made his pulse jump in a way he hadn't felt in years. Beyond just friendship? Nodding slightly, he laughed quietly and slid his free hand over the hand Cloud had on his face- ...Hmm...Yeah. Yeah, it does.

[4/23/12 2:23:33 AM] Cloud Strife: -his smile widens a fraction as he lifts his other hand to wrap his arms around Zack's neck, pulling them both down to lay on the mattress- Mn. ~ -lying partially on top of the other, he snuggles close against his side and nuzzles to his cheek- Then...?

[4/23/12 2:33:00 AM] Zack Fair: -falling into bed with the other, he folded a hand back behind his head to relax, a thoughtful smile taking over his expression as the other hand wrapped around Cloud to hold him close- "Then" what?

[4/23/12 2:39:53 AM] Cloud Strife: -eyes him a moment, taking that time to think- ...Then... what is this? -pushes himself up just enough to look down at Zack, sheepish... but content as he meets the other's gaze-

[4/23/12 2:54:16 AM] Zack Fair: "This?" -the hand wrapped around Cloud slid up to thread through blonde spikes, humming quietly as he considered the question- ...I'm not too sure. -despite the unsure words, his smile and tone was warm and welcoming, almost tender. It was a little...different, being this close to Cloud. The other man was his best friend and one of his closest friends at that, yet a romance seemed like such a faraway thought. Unitl now, that is, he mused to himself- ...But I like it. And I think I wanna continue whatever "this" is, if you'd want to, too. -softening his gaze, he tilted his head some-

[4/23/12 3:02:29 AM] Cloud Strife: -as Zack's fingers slid through his hair, he sighed softly-- the gentle touch soothing, comforting- ...Yeah... -murmurs softly after a moment, his gaze still fixed on the other's deep blue hues. They were very intriguing, impossible to tear from at this point- Yeah, I would. -smiling, he leaned down to gently rest his forehead against Zack's-

[4/23/12 3:08:51 AM] Zack Fair: -gaze locked with Cloud in assurance now, he combed his fingers back through the other's hair and flashed a goofy little victory grin complete with a slight wiggling dance- Awesome~!

[4/23/12 3:14:58 AM] Cloud Strife: -blinks, taken aback by his movement, and then scoffs lightly, a sheepish smile on his face- ////;; ....dork. -mumbles, brushing noses with Zack-

[4/23/12 3:18:08 AM] Zack Fair: Hey, I'm /your/ dork now~. -settles happily under him, lightly bumping his nose back-

[4/23/12 3:26:02 AM] Cloud Strife: ///// -tightens his arms around Zack's neck- ...M-mine, huh...? -squirms a little, shifting to lay more comfortably on top of Zack- Hmn...~

[4/23/12 3:31:17 AM] Zack Fair: -blinks, a little surprised by the shift in position, but definitely not thinking of protesting as he smiled at the other's reply- ...Yeah~. Looks like you're stuck with..."dorky" me for a while~. -chuckling, he unfolds his other hand from behind his head and wraps it around Cloud's middle, rubbing his back gently-

[4/23/12 3:40:26 AM] Cloud Strife: ...Fine with me. -smiles softly and, pausing as if uncertain, slowly brushes his lips against Zack's-

[4/23/12 3:53:00 AM] Zack Fair: -soft contact against his lips left him startled, eyes widened and he froze to process the action, but only for the initial second before he quickly relaxed. Slanting his lips against the other's, he pushed back into the soft kiss and fingers clenched just lightly at blonde spikes and the fabric of his clothes, holding Cloud close-

[4/23/12 4:39:22 AM] Cloud Strife: -loosens his arms around Zack's neck to slide his hands up into the mess of black spikes, clenching lightly before tentatively parting lips just enough to murmur sheepishly- ///; ...I-I've been wanting to do that for awhile, now...

[4/23/12 4:44:40 AM] Zack Fair: -hums contently against his lips, eyes falling half-way closed to look up at him amusedly- ...Yeah? How long's a "while?"

[4/23/12 4:52:01 AM] Cloud Strife: -blinks, pausing to think about how to answer as he meets Zack's half-lidded gaze with his own, trying to remember when the urge, desire had first come up- Mm... -shifts his weight a little, pulling a hand free to tug a little at the covers- Guess that'd... depend on how you'd want to count the time.... //;;;

[4/23/12 4:55:52 AM] Zack Fair: -quirks a brow, a little more curious with that answer- Whatever's easier for you, maybe? -his hold around the other softened, threading fingers back through Cloud's hair once more as he thought to himself-

[4/23/12 5:06:19 AM] Cloud Strife: ...Mn. It'd take me awhile to figure it out... in my head. -quietly, lifting his head slightly with a small frown- ... -hesitates- My memory, I guess, isn't the... greatest. But, um... -frees a hand from Zack's spikes to gently touch his cheek- The thought... had crossed my mind a few times, before... Nibelheim.

[4/23/12 5:11:49 AM] Zack Fair: -nods in understanding to the first bit, then grins playfully with his last few words- Before Nibelheim...Man. Hah~... -mako blues flicked down to look at Cloud's lips, closing them as he leaned up for another small kiss-

[4/23/12 5:24:21 AM] Cloud Strife: //// -gently pushes into the kiss with a sheepish smile, tracing fingers tenderly across his cheek and jaw-

[4/23/12 5:34:24 AM] Zack Fair: Mm....~ -fingers curled behind the other's ear, lingering as he murmured against his lips- I think...No, I'm positive I've always adored you. But...-shakes his head some, thinking of the right words- I didn't really...anticipate this sort of thing. -chuckles, playfully reciting the tone from earlier- whatever "this sort of thing" is.

[4/23/12 5:43:04 AM] Cloud Strife: -leans slightly into the touch, eyes open to slits meet Zack's gaze only as he begins to speak- Mn... it's always been complicated. I... never thought you'd even be open to this.

[4/23/12 5:56:07 AM] Zack Fair: -shrugs a shoulder slightly, watching Cloud's reaction to his touch curiously- I don't really know how to explain it. -slides the hand on his back a little further up to rest between his shoulder blades, thinking aloud- You're my best friend...and I'd do anything for you. -nods a little, unsure how to put it to words at the moment- ...;;

[4/23/12 6:39:30 AM] Cloud Strife: .... -eyes him a long moment, taking in the other's words in silence for a long while, then nods- I'd do the same for you, Zack -softly, threading his fingers through his hair again. Zack had been the blond's first really close friend... something inexplicable, something he couldn't word, but htere is a strong, undeniable connection- I'm just... so glad you're here, now...

[4/23/12 9:38:17 AM] Zack Fair: I'm glad I'm here too...-quietly, almost to himself as he slid the hand from behind his ear down to cup his cheek- ...although a little more glad /you're/ here. Hah~....

[4/23/12 10:16:30 AM] Cloud Strife: Heh...~ -leans into the touch with a small smile- That's twice now... -closes his eyes- Mn.

[4/23/12 1:20:15 PM] Zack Fair: ...Twice? -lightly traces over the curves of Cloud's cheek bone, trailing back down along his jawline as he quietly admired the other's face-

[4/23/12 1:33:47 PM] Cloud Strife: Yes... -quietly, gently nuzzling to Zack's cheek as he slid from on top of the other to lean into his side, a leg still draped over Zack's absently- ...twice you saved my life. -slowly cracks his eyes open to look up the raven haired ex-SOLDIER, brows furrowed slightly. He was grateful, certainly, but he also felt an inkling of guilt still-- when had he the ability to do the same? He used to think, a lot, that if he hadn't been such a helpless victim to Mako poisoning, he wouldn't have caused Zack so much trouble then. Why had Zack carried him so far, taken care of his needs so tirelessly?- ......

[4/23/12 1:54:15 PM] Zack Fair: -blinks, really absorbing those words- ...I'd do it again and again if I had to. And you still wouldn't have to thank me. -smiles warmly, albeit confused by his expression, he tilts his head some- ...?

[4/23/12 2:04:57 PM] Cloud Strife: -gently presses a kiss to his cheek, hand trailing through Zack's hair- ...I know. -fidgets- Just... I wished I had been stronger-- then. -frowns, shifting to lift himself up and crawl under the covers finally, lying on his side facing Zack-   Then, as soon as I feel strong enough, confident enough-- I fall. Off a cliff, apparrently. -huffs quietly, frustrated with his seeming weakness, and reaches out to coax Zack under the covers next to him- ......

[4/23/12 3:18:33 PM] Zack Fair: Cloud- -crestfallen, he turns onto his side to face the blonde, earnest in his tone- Cloud, you're one of the strongest people I know. Don't sell yourself short...-pauses and shifts so he could lie under the covers as well, immediately slinging an arm around Cloud's middle, protective- Everyone has off days! And...back then, a lot of stuff was out of our control. But we kept going. -nods firmly, offering a smile- And that's what makes the biggest difference. You've always kept going, even when things got worse and worse. -shifts his hand to rest on Cloud's cheek, trying to encourage as best he could with a slightly larger smile-

[4/23/12 4:08:12 PM] Cloud Strife: -frowns slightly, watching Zack as he listened, expression softening only a little before he stretched his arms out to hug Zack tightly around his middle and pressed a soft kiss to his lips- ...Thanks, Zack //

[4/24/12 1:59:26 AM] Zack Fair: -returning the kiss tenderly, he pressed close to Cloud, smiling against his lips- Anytime Cloud. ...'cept now, since you and me need to catch a few z's~.

[4/24/12 2:35:05 AM] Cloud Strife: -shoves him lightly by the shoulder, a small smile on his lips- If you're going to make exceptions, you shouldn't say 'anytime,' Zack. -snuggles close to him and closes his eyes, nestling into his shoulder- ...good night.

[aspiringxxhero]

Time to pack up the sword and head on out. I'm resigning as Zack with FFT. My apologies for unfinished threads. If you'd like my personal or my independent Zack, unfortunately, you'll have to message me privately for them. There is one particular person whom I know locally who has a record of navigating and stalking their way into my respective tumblr accounts, and I'd like to nip that in the bud. Haha;;

Thanks for just short of two years of fun. It's been a spiffy go. I'll see you guys around~.

[aspiringxxhero]

[dxcarchives]

—? -blinks, confused- Yeah. Ah— -flushes, sudenly realizing how that had sounded- Not… exactly what I meant, but… -sheepish smile- Mn. -gently squeezes Zack’s shoulders in return, nuzzling back-

[aspiringxxhero]

-laughs warmly, lifting a hand to ruffle Cloud's hair some- I know, I know~ Just playing around! Another date and a little more it is, then~. -settles with the other in his arms as he absently swayed to the music-

[yaoidutchess-deactivated2012080]

[aspiringxxhero]

-listens to the other speak with a small grin, coming to an eventual stop in their dance as Cloud managed to ask his question. His hold around the other’s waist loosened some, really considering him- Another date? -smiles a little wider, chuckling somewhat sheepishly- Yeah, definitely. I’d like that.

[dxcarchives]

…Yeah? -hopeful, he shakes a little of his nervousness with a small smile- Y-yeah.  Or… more. -tightens his arms around Zack’s neck, pulling him closer to rest his forehead against his own- Honestly, I want… to just be with you. -quietly-

[aspiringxxhero]

-pulled down to the other, he laughs quietly and closes his eyes while listening, feeling a warmth rise to his cheeks- "Or more?" You already sleep with me~. -grins as he reopens his eyes, teasing, then as a show of agreement, he brushes his nose against Cloud's and nods- But yeah. We'll definitely do this again soon. I kinda like this...-squeezes the other's waist a little to emphasize the closeness, smiling a little-

[aspiringxxhero]

[aspiringxxhero]

-pulled from his warm train of thought over the ordeal of being with his best friend, he smiled and met with the other’s gaze curiously, maintaining his cozy hold around the blond’s waist- Mn?

[dxcarchives]

-opens his mouth to speak his mind, only to find himself sheepish under the other’s gaze. With a small, shy smile, he tightened his arms around Zack’s neck and lowered his chin a bit, still keeping his gaze- Just… I was just thinking… -sky blues wandered from Zack’s to his collar, temple brushing with his cheek- Maybe we should do this again? /// -unconsciously stops moving in his nervousness, looking up- Date, I mean? -quietly-

[aspiringxxhero]

-listens to the other speak with a small grin, coming to an eventual stop in their dance as Cloud managed to ask his question. His hold around the other's waist loosened some, really considering him- Another date? -smiles a little wider, chuckling somewhat sheepishly- Yeah, definitely. I'd like that.

[gemini-0-eternals-blog]

[yaoidutchess-deactivated2012080]

[yaoidutchess-deactivated2012080]

[heroic-blade-blog-blog]

[moonlightsdreaming]

by もちゃ

[aspiringxxhero]

[dxcarchives]

aspiringxxhero:

doublexcut:

-as Zack released his hand, he lifted it to join his other, wrapping both arms loosely around Zack’s shoulders- …Yeah? -with a small smile, he gently rested his forehead against Zack’s cheek- Mn…~

Yeah…~ -holding him more snugly, he hummed to the melody of the song, moving about with the blond. It was exciting but calming, being this close to Cloud, and he liked the feeling a lot more than he let on maybe-

-sighs softly, content with the rhythm as he moves smoothly along with Zack. He had never thought this would happen… despite their strangely intimate and confusing friendship. He had always wondered where it would have led— especially with Cloud’s most recent developing jealousy, that he had kept forcing himself to rein in… But this, this was nice. Comforting. He liked this, wanted this— and more.-

-Tightening his arms a little around Zack’s shoulders, he lifted his head to look up at his… date with a small smile- Zack? -softly, seeking his gaze-

[aspiringxxhero]

-pulled from his warm train of thought over the ordeal of being with his best friend, he smiled and met with the other's gaze curiously, maintaining his cozy hold around the blond's waist- Mn?

[yaoidutchess-deactivated2012080]

[apertureawakened-blog]