RECOVERY

Casual Otaku
hamina_hamina@yahoo.com

* - indicates thought

Vincent smiled as Red XIII made his way past the small waterfall and up the rocky cliffs
towards him. "Do you have to live in such an isolated location?" gasped the flame colored beast
as he shook the water from his coat. He chuckled and touched Nanaki's shaggy head in
greeting. "Good to see you too my friend." When he didn't smile as he usually would Vincent
dropped his hand. "What is it? What's happened?"  Red sighed , "Vincent, Tifa is dead."
Vincent felt a cold fist clutch his heart. "No, oh god. How?"  Tears glistened in the great cat's
eyes. "An aneurysm, it happened so fast....Cloud's terribly shaken up." Vincent sighed, Tifa had
been so alive, so thrilled about being a godmother to Yuffie's children. It didn't seem possible
such a warm flame could be extinguished so easily. "Can you come?" asked Red XII. "Of
course" he answered. "I'll come right away."

Cloud sat slumped against the wall lost in a sea of heartache and pain. He still couldn't believe
she was gone. The love of his life, his reason for living, snatched away. Tears ran unchecked
down his cheeks. He couldn't stand it, he knew the Jenova in him would make him outlive her,
but it wasn't supposed to be this way. She was supposed to get old and gray. She was
supposed to spend summer afternoons splashing in the lagoon, and cold winters baking cookies
with their godchildren. But it was gone, it was all gone. Voices floated over him, but he was too
lost in his sorrow to acknowledge them.

"Cloud, please....you have to get up. The ceremony is starting soon." He didn't so much as blink
in response. Yuffie sighed and stood back up, smiling sadly as a strong arm circled her waist.
"Any response?" She shook her head and bit her lip. "No...I'm scared Reeve. He hasn't acted
like this since he was dropped into the Lifestream. I was so sure he'd come out of it by now."

Cloud heard the word "Lifestream" and felt another stab in his heart. He'd found out Tifa really
loved him in the Lifestream. She'd brought him back to himself, and she'd saved him. He knew
she would be reborn, but it didn't ease the sense of loss. He wanted her here with him, he
wanted to hear her laugh and tell him she'd always stay by his side. He ran with the thought,
pulling up memories of their time together and wrapping them around him until he once again
drowned out reality.

Reeve looked down at the broken-hearted man. It hurt him to see Cloud this way, but nobody
seemed to be able to bring him out of his current state. When Tifa died he began to scream,
loud piercing screams that had brought him and Yuffie running. Then he'd fallen silent, and hadn't
spoken a word since. He was like a puppet now. He wouldn't eat, drank only when you forced
it past his lips, and only walked if he was led, the man inside was locked away.
 
Vincent adjusted the suit he'd thought he would never wear again as he walked into the funeral
parlor. He watched Reeve and Yuffie a moment before she looked over her husband's
shoulder. "Vincent, you're here." she said. Reeve turned around, keeping his hand around her
waist.  The former Turk smiled slightly at the possessive gesture and nodded his greeting.
"Yuffie,...Reeve" Yuffie leaned up to kiss his cheek and Reeve held out a hand,  "It's good to
see you again." they said in unison.

Vincent returned Yuffie's kiss and shook Reeve's hand firmly. Then he turned to his old
companion, knelt beside him and touched his shoulder. "Cloud?" The blonde blinked, but didn't
respond. "How long has he been like this?" Reeve sighed "Three days, ever since Tifa died.
He'll cry sometimes, but usually it's just like this." Vincent brushed Cloud's long bangs out of his
eyes, tilted his head back and looked into his eyes. The bright blue glow was lifeless and cold.
"He's still there, he just doesn't want to face the pain." Yuffie kneeled beside him and tilted her
head. "You can tell?" Vincent gave her an enigmatic smile, "I was just like him, his eyes may be
open, but he's asleep. He's just not ready to face the pain."

She stood up again and leaned back into Reeve's arms. Vincent's smile fell a little. He
remembered when she used to do that to him. Her vibrant energy had helped him ease the loss
of Lucrecia when Sephiroth's death had weakened Jenova's hold long enough for her to take
her own life. He would have followed if Yuffie had not stayed by his side, but as she grew, her
feelings changed and she left him for the man behind Cait Sith. He mentally shook his head, *No
she deserves Reeve. He gave her children, and they can grow old together.* He sighed as
he thought of the long years ahead. Unless he was killed or committed suicide he would live
even longer than Nanaki. He turned back to Cloud and stroked his cheek. *It will be the same
for you my friend, we're practically eternal now, and eternity is entirely too long to spend
locked in your dreams.*

The doors leading into the viewing area opened and Elena came through. Vincent stood up and
took in the changes. She looked so much different in a dress, softer, and very feminine. She
turned her cool blue eyes on him and chuckled. "You look like a Turk." Vincent blushed slightly.
"...It's the only black suit I own." Elena sighed and shook her head, "I'll put one on your
Christmas list." Then she leaned over and straightened his tie. "You remind me of Tseng, he was
always letting his clothes get mussed." She finished her ministrations and smoothed the pristine
black wool. "Hmm, better. At least you kept it clean." Then she turned to the others, "The
ceremony is starting you should all come inside now." They all nodded and followed her through
the ornate wooden doors.

Vincent sat beside his former companion throughout the service, looking for signs of animation.
He saw his eyes cloud as Barrett stood to give the eulogy. *Good, come out a little. She'd
want you here.* Silent tears fell from his ocean blue eyes and a barely audible keening sound
came from his throat. Vincent sighed and looked on as Tifa's many friends and admirers stood
and gave a few words. He had no idea what to say so he waited until he and Cloud were the
only one's who had not spoken. He sighed heavily as he walked up the aisle to the casket. He'd
spent so many years in one just like this, but at least he was able to get out of his. He looked
directly into Cloud's eyes and began. "Tifa was...

Before he could truly start a wretched sob broke through the room as Cloud stood up and ran
outside. Vincent cursed slightly and gave chase as his shocked compatriots recovered enough to
follow. He finally caught up with him as Cloud stumbled on the stairs and went sprawling.
Vincent grabbed him, grunting as the ex-mercenary landed a solid blow to his stomach. The two
wrestled a while before Vincent managed to put him into an arm lock just as their old party
members burst through the doors.

"Damn you!! Let me go!! I can't stay in there!! I can't see her like that!!" Cloud screamed
openly sobbing. He suddenly ceased his struggles and slumped in Vincent's arms. "I can't watch
them put her in the ground. I just can't do it....I can't." Vincent sighed and pulled him into his
embrace. "It's okay, I understand. I won't make you go." He shook his head as the other's
began to come closer. "I'll stay with him, go back in." The other's nodded and quietly slid away
as he continued to hold his friend rocking him like a baby as sobs shook his body.

The next morning was bright, beautiful, and clear.  Vincent looked at the waterfall near his
home, letting the sound fill his senses as he leaned in the doorway. The musical rush had always
soothed him, and he hoped it did the same for Cloud. He pinched the bridge of his nose as he
thought about the young man sleeping soundly in the spare room. Cloud hadn't recovered in
time for the burial, so he'd brought him here knowing he wouldn't want to return to the small
home he and Tifa had shared near the lagoon. Reeve had agreed to send his alter ego to the
house to keep an eye on it, and it brought a smile to think about the toysaurus shuffling about the
simple rooms eating all the food and shouting through his megaphone at would-be thieves.

Then the frown returned. Cloud had been asleep a long time, he'd have to wake him soon so he
wouldn't give in to the temptation to sleep away his sorrow. He knew better than anybody it
wouldn't help. Deciding to see if food might tempt him out Vincent went into the kitchen and
started to prepare breakfast.

Cloud began to stir as the smell of coffee and spices drifted down the hall to filter into his nose.
He smiled a little thinking it was Tifa and reached across the sheets only to find them cold and
smooth. His eyes snapped open as the reality hit. The sheets weren't warm because she was
gone. He sat up and rubbed at his temples, groaning at the way his stiff and weary muscles
creaked. He bit his lip, fighting the urge to cry, he'd already shed enough tears. He had to be
strong, he hadn't even watched her funeral. *Some husband I turn out to be.* he thought
sighing as he took in the unfamiliar surroundings.

It was a beautiful room, with huge glass doors, and sky blue walls. It was amazing how different
it was on the inside compared to the fairly rustic cabin-like exterior. He pulled the sheets over
his shoulders, taking in the scent of rainwater and sun. Vincent had used his portion of the gil left
after their final battle to build an environmentally sound home. It ran mainly on solar power, but
it also had a hydroelectric backup generator. He turned his head and looked out the doors at
the field of flowers. The sound of the nearby falls was muted, and relaxing.

It was only his second time in Vincent's home. The first being during a housewarming almost
two years ago. Laughter and music had filled the air, and Cid had announced he and Shera
were officially engaged. To which the entire party had shouted, "It's about time!!" He smiled at
the memory. Everyone had eventually found someone. He had Tifa, Barrett had the former Mrs.
Gainsborough, Yuffie had Reeve, and Red XIII had hooked up with Elena of all people...then
he thought of Vincent. *Well almost everyone.* Then he remembered, he didn't have anyone
anymore either. He sighed as sorrow crashed onto his shoulders once again. Deciding he'd
better get out of bed, before he gave in to the temptation to bury his head in a pillow and
scream, he grabbed the robe hanging on the bedpost and followed his nose to the kitchen.

Vincent looked up as he heard Cloud approach and put a glass of orange juice on the table.
The man looked like hell, it was like an insane two-year old had tried to recreate his former
spikes. There were dark circles the size of quarters under his bloodshot eyes and he walked
with the slow, careful stride of a man afraid a simple fall would shatter his bones like china. He
sat down at the table without saying a word and guzzled the glass of juice.

*....at least he's awake.* thought Vincent as he turned and picked up a plate of food and a
pitcher of juice. He placed the plate in front of the haggard young man, refilled the glass, and
watched as the meal began to disappear, quickly. Cloud polished off the food before he even
realized it. He looked down at the pristine plate, not entirely sure what he'd just eaten. He
blushed a little as he realized he'd scarfed everything down in just under a minute.

Vincent didn't say a word but simply dished out another helping, bringing his mug of coffee with
him. Cloud looked at the slice of quiche and smiled, Vincent had always had a somewhat
sophisticated palette. "Thank you." he whispered before digging in again, taking his time to savor
the subtle flavors. Vincent smiled around the mug as he drank and watched his friend enjoy the
food. He stood up, got his own plate, and joined Cloud at the table.

After breakfast Vincent slid the dishes into the automated washer and tried to find something for
Cloud to wear. In the rush they had forgotten to get him new clothes, and the black suit was
hardly appropriate. He dug out a navy blue jumpsuit and ruthlessly slashed the tight cloth so it
would fit Cloud's shorter frame. When he opened the door to the guest room he saw that Cloud
was already out of the bath and looking out the sliding glass doors as he let the air dry his skin
and hair.

Vincent paused a bit as he looked at the warrior. He was as beautiful as ever, all lean muscle,
and tanned skin. His long blonde hair flowed around his shoulders, the spiky hairstyle no longer
necessary now that he didn't have to fight tooth and nail everyday. Vincent had a sudden urge to
run his fingers through the golden strands, wondering if they were as soft as they looked.  He
flushed a little as he felt himself becoming aroused, it had been ages since he thought of the other
man that way. He was attracted to the young warrior from the start, but he could tell he was
attached to Tifa so he had simply set it aside. Now though, now Cloud was free again and the
old desire resurfaced with a vengeance.

He tried to force it down, but this time it fought back, flooding him with fantasies about taking
the ex-mercenary and making him moan beneath his tongue and fingers. Even more disturbing
was the desire to drink from his friend as he buried himself inside his heat. He silently damned
Hojo to the nineteenth pit of hell for playing with his body this way. The scientist had admitted to
having a vampire fetish after he had changed him. He was disappointed that the transformations
didn't go quite the way he had hoped, but he was more than thrilled with the sexual blood lust.
The scientist only had to offer a small cut to make Vincent beg in those initial hours and the fact
that he'd gained pleasure from the man still made his stomach churn.

He wasn't aware he'd let out a low feral growl until Cloud jumped and turned to him. "Vincent?"
he asked, a little unnerved by the bright red glow in his friend's eyes. Vincent quickly fell silent
and closed his eyes a moment before meeting his gaze. The glow was gone, and Cloud
wondered briefly if had simply been imagination. The ruby red orbs seemed the same as they
always had, the glow back to it's usual intensity.

"I brought you a garment....of sorts." he said handing him the jumpsuit. Cloud nodded and
accepted the dark blue cloth. Their hands touched and he felt an odd, but not unpleasant tingle
spread through him. The two men quickly pulled apart. Cloud felt shy suddenly and didn't meet
Vincent's gaze as he excused himself and left, shutting the door behind him.

Cloud turned back to the glass doors and ran a shaky hand through his hair. *What the fuck?
What did I just feel?* He shook his head as if he could rattle the half formed thoughts into a
coherent order. All that came across was a distinct sense of confusion. He shook his head again
and began to pull on the truncated spandex suit.

Vincent was outside yanking weeds in a small garden filled with various vegetables and herbs
when Cloud came onto the back porch in his new outfit. Vincent glanced over his shoulder and
bent back to his work, then his jaw dropped as his brain finally realized what it had just seen.
He fought the urge to take another look as the image of that skintight material clinging to Cloud's
lithe frame burned it's way into his retinas. He hadn't taken into account the fact that all those
muscles made Cloud significantly broader than himself.

He felt a shadow fall over him and tried to rein in his raging hormones. Cloud's bare feet were in
his field of vision and he realized even his toes were cute. He gritted his teeth and tried not to
growl again. *Augh, doesn't he have a single physical flaw? I'll bet even his battle scars
are cute.* The former Turk suddenly had the urge to knock himself in the head in the vain hope
the pain would help shake the thoughts from his mind. *His wife just died you sick bastard,
stop thinking this way!*

The thought of Tifa immediately drowned out the desire and he was able to look up at his
companion. "Yes?" he asked. Cloud shrugged, "Nothing really, It's just....the house is quiet. I
don't like the quiet." Vincent nodded in understanding. He should have remembered the silence
would only leave the vulnerable man alone with his melancholy thoughts. He waved his hand in a
gesture that indicated Cloud should help him. He bent down and began to help Vincent pull the
weeds. When they had finished Vincent showed him how to feed the mulcher and fold the
cuttings into the compost heap. Cloud watched on with interest, wondering if all those years
trapped in a dark and dusty basement caused the vampire's fixation with the great outdoors.

Suddenly a child's laugh rang clear, followed by a harried female voice panting for them to wait.
"Luke, get back here....you hear me young man? Slow down!" Both men smiled as a young
cherub of a boy bounded across the field towards them, his chocolate brown hair bouncing
along with him. Yuffie followed closely behind, toting a young girl against her hip, and a large
bag on her back. "Luke I swear if you don't stop....." she cut off as she watched the boy fling
himself against Cloud and pull at his hands asking to be picked up.

The warrior smiled and did as asked, chuckling as the child reached out to grab a fistful of
Vincent's hair. The brunette winced and tried to pry apart the tiny fist with his normal hand.
"That's why I wear a ponytail." Cloud laughed as Vincent managed to free himself and did his
best to smooth the mangled locks back into place. "I used to wear one too, but it made me look
too feminine." Cloud shifted Luke to his other hip, "Was that a hint Valentine?" Vincent shook
his head and tried not to smile, "Believe me, I still can't understand how they mistook you for a
girl during that whole Corneo mess." Cloud blushed a little at the reminder of his old adventure
in cross-dressing. He'd rediscovered a few unsettling things about his sexuality during that
incident, but as always Tifa had accepted him even after he told her about them.

He felt the tears come again as he thought of her smiling and saying "I love you Cloud, and I'll
always love you, it doesn't matter if your tastes are....eclectic. I just want you to love me back."
He sighed and thought, *I love you too Tifa, I always will.*  He stiffened a little as he felt
Luke touch his wet cheeks. "Why you cryin' Uncle Cloud?" Cloud shook his head and
answered "I miss your Aunt Tifa. I'm sad that she's gone." Luke nodded and leaned his head
against Cloud's shoulder. "I miss her too, but I'm not gonna cry. She always told me to stay
happy 'cause it made her happy." Cloud smiled sadly and thought to himself  *Out of the
mouths of babes* He nodded to the little boy  "Okay, I'll try not to cry anymore."

Yuffie coughed to alert them to her presence as she sensed an end to the conversation. All three
turned their attention to her and she smiled at them. It would take a blind eye not to appreciate
the beauty of the trio. She put on her best irritated mother face and began to scold Luke,
"Didn't I tell you to wait young man?" Luke's face fell a little as he realized mommy was going to
play hard ball. "What if something had happened to you? I wouldn't have been able to help with
my hands full like this." The young child was about to answer when he got a good look at her
face and wisely decided silence might be best.

She huffed angrily, but kissed his cheek before setting down her daughter and slinging off the
backpack. She tossed the bag at Vincent who staggered a bit at the unexpected weight. "Take
Leia and go play in the field, but don't get into trouble." Luke grinned as he hopped out of
Cloud's arms and grabbed his sister's wrist dragging her with him to the flowers.

"My god, what do you have in here Yuffie? Cloud's barbells?"  She grinned and shook her
head. "No, a couple of clean outfits, some underwear...Real cute undies," she said to Cloud
winking and earning a blush, "...and a whole lot of food." Vincent looked into the bag, floored
by the sheer amount of staples. "Why so much?" Yuffie shrugged, "I couldn't bring everything by
myself you know. So, everyone's coming over to help Cloud settle in." Then a glimmer of her
old mischief shone in her eyes, "I also know how you cook, so I knew we'd need some real
food." Cloud chuckled at the look on Vincent's face as he realized he'd just been insulted.

That night music and laughter filled Vincent's home, but it was muted since everyone distinctly
felt the loss of one voice. Eventually the impromptu party wound down and all the others said
good-bye and headed home. Cloud elected to remain with Vincent, he didn't think he'd ever
want to see his old home again. It held far too many memories of his lost love. He asked Reeve
to give away or free all the Chocobo's he and Tifa had raised, except Aurora, his first gold
Chocobo. He also asked him to take care of the house and it's contents. Reeve nodded and
made the plans, he distributed the Chocobo's amongst the old party and put everything but the
photo albums and three simple items into storage. They were the sword Cloud had gotten from
Zack, a pendant he'd gotten from Aeris, and Tifa's old weapon. He sealed them in a box and
brought them to Vincent, anticipating the day Cloud would heal enough to open it.

Several months passed and Cloud and Vincent fell into a routine. They took turns with
everything, hunting, gardening, cleaning. Although, they left cooking mostly up to Vincent when
Cloud's lack of talent made itself apparent. Vincent still found himself looking at his friend in a
way that sent him running to the woods for a hunt far too frequently. Thinking of Tifa was
becoming less and less effective, and all to often the only act that could cool his blood, since sex
wasn't an option, was to give himself completely over to his hunger. So he would drain whatever
unfortunate beast crossed his path first and drag his kill back home for meat. He'd had to get
pretty inventive to make some of those kills palatable, but Cloud never complained if some of
the flavors were a little odd.

It was during one of these times that Cloud intercepted him before he could run off. "What is it
Cloud?" Vincent asked in what he hoped was a normal voice. "Why do you keep looking at me
and running off?" asked Cloud. *Fuck !!.....he noticed.* thought Vincent.  "What would make
you think I'm doing that?" he asked trying to brazen it out. Those blue eyes tightened cynically
as he frowned. "I'm not blind Vincent, so don't insult me. If you want me gone just say it."
Vincent looked at him trying not to panic. He'd gotten so used to the man being around, even if
he couldn't pursue his desires, he'd rather live with the tension then loose him.

He grabbed Cloud's shoulders and gazed into his eyes, praying he'd only see his sincerity. "No
Cloud, I want you....I want you to stay. I like having you here. So please, don't go." Cloud
looked into those eyes, again perturbed by that bright red glow that had started to show up
more and more often. "Are you sure? You're not just saying that?" He looked deeper into those
scarlet eyes and saw relief, relief and.....desire? He mentally shook his head, no that had to be
his imagination. Vincent wouldn't feel that way about him. "Yes." replied the brunette. Cloud
smiled, "Okay. I'll stay."

Time passed and before either really noticed, twelve months had gone by and they still
continued to live together, frequently visited by the others.  Vincent came home from one of his
rare shopping excursions and set his purchases on the kitchen counter. The house was strangely
silent and he felt a small trill of fear. It was the first time he'd left Cloud alone for so long. *He
wouldn't...* Vincent began to run through the house and was about to cry out when he noticed
a familiar set of blonde spikes peeking out of the door to the storage area.

He approached slowly, wondering why Cloud had donned his old hairstyle. Cloud was sitting
on the floor indian style, a photo album spread before him, and Tifa's old weapon in his lap. The
blonde warrior absently stroked the Platinum Fist as he gazed longingly at the photographs.
Tears glistened in the deep blue eyes, making their glow waver like rolling ocean waves.

Vincent turned to go, but Cloud's whisper called him back. "Sometimes....I'm scared I'll forget
what she looks like."  Vincent turned back to his friend, meeting his gaze.  "My memory has
never been a 100% since the experiments. There are times I have to strain my brain to recall the
sound of her voice. Then there are moments when I swear I can feel her right behind me. It can
be so real, I can almost smell her, then I turn around and she isn't there." Cloud fell silent a
moment and cradled the weapon to his chest. "I loved her so much...but I couldn't even give her
a proper burial."

Vincent sat down beside him and lifted the album in his lap.  A small photo slipped out and fell
to the floor. He picked it up and looked at it. It was the photo of Tifa, Zack, and Sephiroth.
Even though several years had passed Vincent still felt a stab of regret as he gazed at Lucrecia's
son. He'd definitely inherited his mother's beauty, but the eye's were cold, clinical, Hojo's eyes.
He shook his head, refusing to sink into the 'if onlys'.

Cloud took the photo from his hand and gazed at it for a long time. He sighed, "Zack, I haven't
thought of him in ages." He smiled a little sadly, "He was a great guy. I don't suppose you two
ever met?" Vincent shook his head. "No, he must have come after Hojo...." Cloud looked up as
he trailed off a faraway look in his eyes. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."
Vincent shook his head, "No, it's all right." he said as he took the photo back and placed it in
the album. He closed the book and put it on the floor beside him before giving Cloud a rather
piercing gaze. "Memories are fine, but sometimes you have to live for today. It took me far too
long to learn that."  Then he smiled a little, softening his eyes. "Do you want to go see her?"
Cloud swallowed, but shook his head.  "I'm sorry, I'm still not ready." Vincent sighed, but didn't
press. "It's okay Cloud, just tell me when you are and we'll go."

Cloud nodded, visibly slumping with relief. Vincent was about to stand again when Cloud
touched his knee. He turned back once again, and found that beautiful face just inches from his
own. Every single good intention immediately flew out of his head, and it was only pure shock
that kept him from leaning forward to kiss him. That mesmerizing glow in his eyes seemed to pull
the gunslinger in like a whirlpool. "Thank you, Vincent." Cloud smiled shakily "I don't know
what I'd have done without you." Then he pulled him into a crushing hug and Vincent practically
whimpered at the feeling. Cloud quickly released him, blushing profusely. "Umm, sorry about
that. Too many raging emotions I guess." Vincent took a cleansing breath and tried to tell himself
how wrong it would be to tell Cloud just how much he enjoyed his touch. "Don't worry yourself,
I don't mind at all." he said. Then he stood up and started walking towards the kitchen. "I'll be in
the kitchen if you need me." Cloud nodded and began to gather the scattered mementos.
 
Once again, time passed, and the two year anniversary of Tifa's death came. On that fateful day
Cloud came to Vincent and said simply. "I'm ready to see her." The former Turk nodded and
packed up for the long trip to the graveyard. They talked little on the way to her burial site. It
wouldn't be an easy trip, but it seemed only fitting to bury her in their hometown. Both men
looked up at the entrance to Nibelheim in silence. Individual memories flowing through their
thoughts.

They made their way through town earning curious stares from the new denizens. All the
previous inhabitants men, women, children...they'd all died at the Reunion. Cloud appeared to
be the only one who hadn't been drained by Sephiroth's attempt to call back all Jenova's power.
Vincent stared at the mansion as they passed it. He and Cloud had been toyed with like lab rats
in the pits of that hell hole. He became a monster and Cloud still carried the scars of those
experiments no matter how hard he tried to hide it.

Finally, they made it to the outskirts of town, and the cemetery in the shadow of Mt. Nibel. The
small graves were well cared for, and the whispers of the long dead townspeople seemed to fill
the air. Cloud knelt at a pillar of pure white marble and brushed his hand over the flowers
planted at it's base. "You guys did a good job moving them here." said Cloud. Vincent smiled,
"It was her mom's idea. She thought Aeris would have wanted them for her."

Cloud didn't respond and several moments ticked by, the sound of crickets and the gentle creak
of windmills occasionally breaking the silence. The town was even more quiet now that the
reactor had been converted to wind power. "Can I have some time alone?" asked Cloud.
Vincent looked away from the setting sun and nodded. "Okay, I'll go get us a room at the inn."
He paused as Cloud whispered, "There's only one....remember?". Vincent turned to respond,
but Cloud was lost in contemplation again, so he kept his peace and headed back into
Nibelheim.

Vincent was just coming out of the shower when he heard the thunder rumbling in the distance.
He quickly scanned the room, and realized Cloud hadn't returned. He struggled to pull on his
pants over wet skin, cursing whoever forgot the towels, and winced as a torrential downpour
began pounding against the window. One thing about living near the mountains, the rain had a
habit of sneaking up on you. He was just reaching for his cloak when an extremely soaked
Cloud came sloshing through the open doorway.

Vincent tried not to stare, but those rain-soaked clothes made it very difficult. He could see
Cloud's nipples through the white cotton shirt turned translucent by rain, and the once baggy
black jeans clung like a second skin leaving very little to the imagination. Once again he was
struck by just how impressive his friend was. It had taken a huge amount of willpower not to
sneak a peek at Cloud's naked form during their past two years together, but he'd wanted to
respect his privacy.

Almost as if he'd heard Vincent's thoughts, Cloud began to tug off the soaking garments, tossing
them into a pile by the bed. First came the boots, then the shirt. Next, he slipped the belt free
and slid his hands into the waist of his pants.... Vincent tore his gaze away. "I'm going to see if I
can still get a meal. Would you care for anything?" Cloud looked up, and puzzled over the
distinct reddish color staining Vincent's cheeks. *A fever? But we're resistant to sickness...*
"Sure, bring me up a plate would you? I'll take my shower while you're down there." Vincent
nodded and headed downstairs.

The former Turk shook his head as he passed through the doorway. This had to be the only inn
in the world that wouldn't fix a stuck door after so many years. Of course, as Cloud had said,
there was only one room, so a closed door was a moot point. The innkeeper smiled as he
reached the bottom of the stairs. "May I help you 'sir?" Vincent nodded, "Yes, can I get a meal
for two sent upstairs?" Then he thought about Cloud in that shower and decided he didn't want
an audience if he embarrassed himself. "On second thought, I'll take the tray myself." The clerk
nodded, giving him a rather sly look that made him want to blush. *I'm blushing entirely too
much lately, I'm starting to feel like a teenager.*

Vincent set the heavy tray on the extra bed and picked up one of the bowls, setting it on the
nightstand beside him. He put the basket of bread beside the bowl and lifted his head as he
heard the door to the bathroom open. His jaw dropped a little as he looked at a mostly naked
Cloud. Cloud chuckled a little and fingered the silky boxers covered with little mogs. "They
were a gift from Tifa, she thought they were cute". Vincent closed his mouth and gratefully took
the out. He hadn't even noticed the comical underwear, he'd been too busy looking at all that
smooth skin. *I was right, even the damned scars are cute.* "I would have expected the
obligatory hearts." he said as he put the tray with the remaining bowl across his lap.

Cloud laughed in earnest and walked over to the bed. "Actually, I usually don't wear anything at
all. I prefer to sleep in the nude...." The spoon paused halfway to Vincent's mouth.  "....but I
guess that's more info than you needed to know." he finished, smiling at the look on the ex-
Turks face. Vincent dropped the spoon and pinched the bridge of his nose. "Thank you so
much for that graphic image." he said, voice heavy with sarcasm.  "Well you didn't expect me to
let it all hang out with strangers around, now did you? I'm not Muki."  Vincent shook his head
and laughed as he remembered Cloud's admirer. He picked up the spoon again and took a sip
of soup. "Did that guy ever tell you what he did to wake you up after you passed out in that
room?" Cloud chuckled, "No, and I never got the nerve to ask. I didn't wake up with a weird
taste in my mouth so I let it be." Vincent choked and clapped a hand over his mouth, trying not
to spray soup all over the place, unfortunately it simply altered it's path and flew out his nose
landing on the other bed.

He glared at Cloud, who stood doubled-over laughing like a maniac, and began to dab away
the mess with as much dignity as he could muster. Eventually Cloud's mirth died down and he
wiped tears out of the corner of his eyes. "Woohoo, that felt good! It's been forever since I've
laughed like that." Vincent grunted. "Now don't go getting all gloomy on me. I'm feeling pretty
good right now and I don't want you to ruin it." Vincent looked up and realized the shadows
that had inhabited his friends eyes for the past two years really did seem to be gone. "I take it
you made your peace then?" he asked. Cloud nodded and sighed, the sadness was still there,
but thankfully the depression seemed to have totally evaporated.

Cloud touched a hand to the slightly damp bedspread, then pulled it down partially before sitting
down and taking a sip from his wineglass. "What're we having?" Vincent smiled as he finally got
his first good taste. "Let's see, mmm, it's quite good, but I can't place it." Cloud took his own
spoonful and smiled, "Ark Dragon. Just like mom used to make."  Vincent took another taste,
sweet, spicy, and very filling despite the delicate texture. "I don't suppose you kept the recipe?"
Cloud shrugged, "Actually, I make a pretty good version myself." He frowned slightly as
Vincent stared at him. "I'm not a total loss you know." Vincent raised an eyebrow. "You
could've fooled me." Cloud gave him a rather dry look, "Ark Dragons only live around Mt.
Nibel and the kill needs to be fresh.....Oh forget it. I'll make you some before we go back
home. It stores really well once you cook it." Vincent smiled, "That would be nice." The two
finished their meal in silence and set the dishes outside the door for pickup the next day.

Cloud walked over to the hall window and looked out over the tiny town, finishing the last of his
wine. Vincent came up beside him and looked out as well, staring at the high towers of his
former prison. "You know, this was the last place I saw him before that whole mess." Vincent
glanced over at him. "Who?" Cloud met his gaze a moment then looked back out the window.
"Sephiroth. He was looking out of the window, just like this. He seemed preoccupied, not
totally there. Sometimes I wonder if he sensed the coming chaos." Vincent shrugged. "Who
knows? I was asleep through it all, dreaming my dreams, unable to wake up and try and stop
it." Cloud slipped a hand onto his shoulder. "Don't start the blame game again. Sometimes,
things just happen."

Cloud turned to the window again. "I hope he found peace, maybe Aeris led him to the real
Promised Land." Vincent looked down at him. "Don't be shocked. I know he did some
unforgivable things, but he was still a human being. I cared for him once." Vincent stiffened,
feeling an uncomfortable little jolt of envy. "I've never told you about that, have I?" asked Cloud.
The brunette shook his head. Cloud pointed towards the room indicating he should precede
him. Vincent went in, sat down on the bed, and crossed his legs. He watched as Cloud set
down his glass, then managed to close the door somehow, pulling it shut behind him. He was
about to ask how he managed that when the blonde replied, "There's a trick to it."

Cloud sat down on the bed opposite him staring into space. The silence stretched out, and just
when Vincent thought he would never speak, Cloud began. "It happened a few months after I
was sent to Junon. We were training that day, and everyone was looking forward to the three-
day weekend. Sephiroth came by to watch us, I had just won my fight when I noticed him
looking at me. It felt so odd, it was like we became linked right then and there. I tried to play it
off, told myself I was just in awe of my idol, that it was my imagination, but it wasn't.

Anyway, I didn't really have anywhere to go when they dismissed us that day so I just decided
to stay on base. I was in my room, doing some exercises, when he came in the door. He didn't
even knock, just came striding in, shocking the hell out of me. He sat down on my roomie's bed
and began taking off his gloves. 'So, your name's Strife?' he said. I nodded to him and was all
set to go into the entire name, rank and serial number spiel when he held up his hand. He told
me that was enough and asked me to lock the door.  I had no clue what to do. I mean, it was
Sephiroth!  He just looked at me in that cool, calculating way of his and before I knew it I'd
obeyed.

Then he began taking off his clothes and I just froze. I stood there watching him strip down with
no clue what to say or do. I'm standing there in nothing but my gym shorts and my hero is
getting naked. I was thinking, 'Is he using this room to sleep or what?' God, I was naive. He got
down to his boxers and laid down on the bed, then called me over. I was a nervous wreck. He
handed me this bottle of oil and told me to rub him down. I managed to convince myself this
was all some sort of joke and the minute I touched him he would call me a perv or something,
but the thing of it was. He had a good body, and I wanted to touch him."

Cloud broke off for a moment and looked at his rather shocked friend, "Does that disgust you?"
Vincent started, the spell broken for the moment. "No, no it doesn't." Cloud gave him a long
and meaningful glance. "Well, I won't go into too much detail. Let's just say that he was every
bit as skilled as a lover as he was as a fighter. Perhaps more so." The blonde dropped his head
for a moment. "Tifa and I weren't together yet, and it was lonely, so lonely. You understand
how it is right? All those days and nights without someone to hold on to. We spent a lot of
nights together after that, and eventually I came to care for him. You see, I was convinced Tifa
could never want me. What kind of warrior still got floored by motion-sickness?"

Vincent stared at Cloud as he began to wind down his tale. Part of him was rejoicing, because it
turned out Cloud would be able to understand his desires, but another part was drowning in
dread. The man who'd chosen him went on to try and destroy the world, how would that affect
his view on homosexuality. "Was Sephiroth the only one?" *What the fuck?!?  Did I just ask
that?!?*  Cloud let out a tired sigh. "No, he wasn't. Zack and I did it a few times as well. He
was totally hung up on Aeris though, so it never went anywhere. The first time we were both
drunk off our asses, I wasn't even sure he remembered it. Then the next time, we started making
out to distract this scientist while he pocketed a center punch so we could break free. Boy was
she shocked! She just stood there gaping and I dunno, I guess the exhibitionist in us just took
over. Hojo was pissed though, I think he knew about me and Sephiroth, he gave me some
weird shot that made my head all fuzzy."

"His favorite hypnonarcotic most likely. It suppresses motor skills, increases tactiles, and leaves
you highly open to suggestion. Highly illegal, but that's never stopped Hojo." replied Vincent his
old hatred burning anew. There was no telling what Hojo had done to Cloud in that state, he
wouldn't even know what was being done to him until it wore off. The scientist hadn't had to use
it on him though, not with this infernal hunger flowing through his veins.

Cloud let out a loud sigh and fell back on the bed. "Man, I'm exhausted. All that talking totally
took it out of me. I'm going to bed." He sat up on his elbows and looked at his ruby-eyed
friend. "Thanks for being understanding Vince, it felt good to get all that off my shoulders."
Vincent shrugged, "Didn't you tell Tifa?" Cloud laid back down and rolled onto his shoulder.
"Not in such detail. I didn't think she could still love me knowing it was Sephiroth. So I just told
her I'd slept with a man before I came to Midgar. You and Zack were the only ones I've ever
told." Vincent digested that a moment, then turned to ask Cloud another question, but the
blonde had fallen asleep. Vincent bit his lip and pulled the sheets over his friend, wondering if
Cloud would regret telling him all this come morning.  The vampire sighed and gave Cloud a
breathy kiss. "I could love you Cloud, please love me back."

Vincent looked out the bedroom window, where the rain was still coming down in buckets.
Cloud's stories combined with his own fertile imagination had left him with a raging hard-on and
with all that rain he couldn't go hunting. That left only one option, he brushed a finger over
Cloud's lips, noting how soft and sensual they were, before he crossed to his own bed and
began to strip down. He slipped between the sheets and looked over at Cloud as he slipped his
fingers around his length and began to pleasure himself. He shut his eyes and began to imagine
all the things he wanted to do to his beloved. He growled softly with his release then bit deeply
into his own wrist, drinking down the rich, sweet blood, shuddering as the taste sent pleasure
sweeping through his system. It wasn't entirely satisfying, but it was release. He rolled onto his
back and allowed sleep to drag him down.

The next morning Cloud woke up before Vincent. He got out of bed and looked at his friend.
He wasn't sure what had made him tell Vincent everything he had last night, but he didn't regret
it. He touched a finger to Vincent's lips, totally unaware he was copying the exact same gesture
Vincent had used on him. It had been so long since he'd felt desire, no, not just desire, love, and
he was a little surprised it was for a man again. He smiled and traced a slim eyebrow, he'd
certainly chosen well. Vincent Valentine was the epitome of male beauty. The crimson eyes and
the dark bad boy aura only added to the appeal. He didn't even mind the cybernetic arm. "Now
I just have to figure out how to seduce you." he whispered, totally unaware it wasn't necessary.

Vincent moaned as he began to wake up. He was having a very nice dream about Cloud and he
tried to fight off the encroaching consciousness. Unfortunately for him the waking world wasn't
willing to wait and he woke up anyway, still heavy with need. "Well good morning Valentine."
called a husky voice. Vincent blinked and tried to focus on Cloud with half his mind still left
behind in the dream world. Then he noticed what the blonde was wearing and his senses
enthusiastically leaped to the forefront.  *Damn it, is he trying to tempt me?* Cloud was
sitting against the window sill in nothing but a towel, and the way his legs were propped up gave
Vincent a completely unobstructed view of his rather impressive endowments.

Vincent felt his mouth water. The glimpses through those loose clothes hadn't given him a true
sense of  the warrior's size. *Tifa must had one hell of a ride.* he thought, then immediately
turned his head and blushed. Cloud took note of the quick flicker of desire and it gave him
hope. He stood up and walked over to the bed, sitting down beside the former Turk. "You must
have been having a pretty interesting dream, I could hear you moaning from the bathroom." The
blush spread even more. Cloud grinned, finding the pink tinge against the alabaster skin quite
appealing. "Want to tell me about it?" Vincent gave him a look that clearly said he did not and
was considering homicide if he pressed the issue.

He laughed a little, "That's alright, you don't have to share." Vincent relaxed slightly only to tense
up again as the blonde leaned close. He could smell the soap from his shower, the lemony oil he
used to keep his hair that wondrous shade of gold, and the rich odor of his morning cup of
coffee. *Please move back, move back before I.....* Vincent's thoughts scattered to the
seven winds when Cloud grabbed his chin and brushed a finger over a minuscule stain. Cloud
frowned at the small speck of blood, but it didn't appear to be an injury. Vincent gasped in
protest as the warrior forced his mouth open and touched a finger to the needle-sharp fangs.

Cloud looked at the points in fascination. He knew Vincent could transform, but he'd only
suspected that he might be a vampire. "You really are a vampire, aren't you?" he asked releasing
his hold. Vincent sighed and dropped his gaze. "In a manner of speaking. I'm no creature of
legend, but I do have a very real hunger for blood."  Cloud took that in. He'd lived with the man
for two years, had known him several times as long, and he just now confirmed the truth. "How
does it taste?" Vincent shrugged, "Like blood...it's not something you can describe, you just
have to taste it." The blonde warrior smiled "Maybe later. So how about this, do you bite
people?" Vincent sighed, "I usually get it from the animals I hunt, but if I can get human blood, I
will take it." Cloud raised his eyebrow, "Sounds painful." Vincent shrugged, "The people I've
bitten never complained, but then again I was banging them at the time so that may have
something to do with it." Cloud chuckled, "Is that your way of saying you're a good lay?"

Vincent laughed himself. "Like I said, I've never gotten any complaints."  Cloud leaned back in
again and whispered, "Mind if I find out for myself?" Vincent's laugh died off as his mind went
blank. *I didn't just hear that, I must still be drea...* the thought trailed off as Cloud leaned
in and began to kiss him. "Kiss me back Val, it's no fun if you just lie there." he whispered,
flicking his tongue against Vincent's lips, and earning a moan. Then he nipped at the sensual lips
and yanked the vampire against him, crushing his mouth against his own. Vincent moaned again
and felt Cloud enter his mouth, licking at his teeth, coaxing him to do the same.

He gladly did so, using his tongue to duel with the invading muscle. He was rewarded with a low
grunt. He began to suck on it, and Cloud sighed, releasing his death grip on Vincent's shoulders
to stroke the bare skin. He forced Cloud's tongue back into his mouth and began to suck on the
blonde's lower lip.  He flexed his metal claws, then began to delicately scrape the skin on his
friend's back, burying his normal hand in the thick golden locks. Cloud arched against him and
began to duplicate the motions on Vincent.

The vampire let go of Cloud's lip and groaned. It had been far too long and he didn't have the
patience for as much foreplay as he would have liked. He pulled Cloud onto the bed and flicked
open the towel. "I'll go slow next time." he said hoarsely as he slid between Cloud's legs. He
licked the length,  purring as it grew fully erect. Then he took the tip between his lips, dipping his
tongue into the slit to lap up the juices, before taking the entire length into his mouth and down
his throat. Cloud hissed and arched against him, burying his hands in the long, silky hair he'd
always admired. He watched the dark head bobbing slowly as Vincent deep throated him. The
former Turk began to make a low purring sound and the vibration added yet more stimulation.
The years without release soon caught up with him and Cloud gritted his teeth to keep from
howling as he sent huge globs of cum down Vincent's eager throat. He continued to spurt, until
the thick sticky fluid overflowed Vincent's mouth no matter how quickly he swallowed. Finally,
the pace slowed down and Cloud fell back against the sheets, exhausted, but far from sated.

Vincent stared and the still hard member, jutting proudly from the soft thatch of blond curls and
chuckled. "Still not satisfied?" Cloud blushed, "I can't help it. I've always been like that." Vincent
shook his head and smiled, "Good, because we're not done yet."  He kissed him again, letting
Cloud taste himself on his tongue. He groaned as the mercenary took it one step further and
began to lick at his chin and throat, lapping up all traces of his cum. He grabbed a fistful of hair
and yanked Cloud away from his throat, throbbing in anticipation as he looked into those blue
eyes half-lidded in lust. "Why don't you put that clever little tongue to better use?" he purred.
Cloud took the hint and dove down on the ex-Turk with an enthusiasm that took his breath
away. He had to use his hands to handle Vincent's length, but he was quite skilled. Too skilled
in fact, because all too soon Vincent was growling his own release. Cloud gobbled down his
seed with all the relish he'd shown on his own, using his fingers to scoop up what had
overflowed and sucking them clean.

Cloud looked down at his handiwork and grinned, tapping the glistening tip of the still firm
erection. "Looks like I'm not the only one who isn't satisfied." Vincent dropped his head back
and laughed. "Quite true, you want to sixty-nine this time?" Cloud grabbed his hand and began
to suck on the fingers. "I want you to fuck me this time." he whispered huskily. The blonde
warrior lay on his back and guided his lover's hand to his entrance. Vincent moved between his
legs and slowly inserted one slick finger. Cloud hissed slightly as he felt the digit penetrate, it had
been many years since he'd been touched down there, and he was as tight as a virgin again.
Vincent gently probed within him until he began to loosen up, then added a second finger, using
them to stretch the tender walls.

Cloud eventually began to move against his hand, so the vampire curved his fingers until he
found that special spot deep inside that gave pleasure. The mercenary cried out and began to
buck against his hand. "Does it feel good, my little warrior?" Cloud managed to bite out, "Yes,
oh fuck, yes." Vincent chuckled, "Maybe I should just do this all day then?" Cloud moaned and
shook his head, "No! I couldn't take it." He leaned up and began to suck on Vincent's neck.
"Please, fuck me now!" The former Turk once again grabbed a fistful of hair in his cybernetic
hand and pulled him away. "Mmmm, but I like hearing you moan. In fact, I think I want to hear
you scream." Cloud moaned louder. "Please, please don't tease. I want you in me. Fuck me,
fuck me please." Vincent smirked, withdrew his fingers, and replaced them with his cock. He
really would have liked to continue this sweet torment, but he needed release as well.

He let out a low growl as he slowly pushed into his lover. *Oh, yes, yes! So good! I've
dreamed of this.* thought Vincent as Cloud let his breath out in one long moan until he was
completely buried within him. Vincent paused a moment, enjoying the feel of Cloud's heat
around him, and giving him time to get used to being filled again. When the warrior began to
grind against him, he began to pump. He trailed his metal claws over the finely chiseled chest,
pausing to pinch the nipple, and trace little circles around the aerole. Then he lightly scraped the
sleek jaw, the delicate earlobes, the strong throat, reveling in the moans his ministrations
invoked. He reached back to grab the thick rope of hair, and accidentally scraped the area
between Cloud's shoulder blades while trying to pull apart the ponytail. When the action brought
a little hiss from the man underneath him, an evil little smile spread across his lips. *Found a
weak spot, have I?*

Vincent slid one hand under a hip and the other under a shoulder, before sitting back, keeping
himself expertly imbedded inside him. Now they were both sitting up, Cloud on his lap, with his
throbbing erection caught between their bellies. The gunslinger immediately took advantage of
the new position to reach up and begin torturing Cloud's little erogenous zone. Switching
between feathery barely there scrapes, light scratches, and true clawing that left light pink welts.
The sensual torture made Cloud want to scream at him to stop, and beg him to continue all at
once. He began to slam himself down on his lover, wanting to make the vampire moan like he
was making him moan.

The former Turk began to growl as Cloud impaled himself on his cock, rubbing his own erection
between their rippling stomach muscles. *Damn, he's good at this. I don't know how much
longer I can keep this up!* thought the Turk. "Unnngh, Val it's good, it's so good. I can't take
much more." moaned his lover. Determined to send Cloud over the edge first, Vincent began to
pump even harder, using his hands to pull the blonde's hips against his fierce thrusts. Before long
his efforts paid off.  Cloud let out a scream, his cock spasmed and Vincent felt the heat of his
release spreading between their bellies.

Vincent growled, sank his teeth deep into Cloud's shoulder and followed. The warrior let out a
grunt with each individual spurt firing inside him. The vampire continued to drink as he finally
finished sending his seed deep inside his lover. He slipped his fangs out of the wound and lazily
lapped at the blood that kept flowing. Then he felt Cloud's hands slip into his hair and he was
yanked away with a mouth still filled. His eyes widened when the blonde crushed his lips against
him, lapping up his own blood. Those wondrous blue eyes fluttered open and stared deep into
his own. "Damn..." Cloud panted trailing a hand along Vincent's cheek. "That was amazing, I've
never felt anything like that before."

The former Turk grinned. "So....do you think I'm a good lay?" Cloud laughed and let his head
fall back. "Fishing for compliments?" he rolled his head forward again and looked deep into
those fascinating crimson eyes. "I think if you were any better I wouldn't be talking to you right
now." Then he dropped his head into the crook of Vincent's neck and sighed. "I'm exhausted. I
could really use some rest. How long do we have this room for anyway?" Vincent leaned
forward and gently laid him on the bed yanking the tangled sheets out of the way. "Don't worry
about it lover, I got it on a running credit basis." He pulled the discarded blanket over them both
and slid a possessive arm around Cloud's waist. The younger man was soon fast asleep.
Vincent looked down at that angelic face and sighed. He would never regret what had just
happened, but now that the passion was spent doubts were coming forth.

He wasn't sure if this was just a fling for him. It would hurt him to let the warrior go if it was. The
former Turk buried his face in the silky golden locks and took a deep breath, taking in the scent
of sweat and his lover. He desperately wanted to keep this one, he wasn't sure when lust had
turned to love, but he'd been in love with this man for well over a year now. Today only served
to cement his affections. Vincent sighed and forcibly put aside his rambling thoughts, he took a
few deep breaths and soon was fast asleep.

When Vincent woke up a few hours later it was to heated pleasure. He felt warm fingers
stroking his length and tried let go. Then he realized that wasn't his hand. His eyes popped open
and he gasped as a warm wet tongue flicked against his earlobe. "Finally awake I see."
whispered a husky voice. "Cloud?"  A soft chuckle against his temple. "Who else? I'm not done
with you yet." Vincent moaned as he felt Cloud slip his fingers inside him. "You got to be in
control last time, so now it's my turn."  The ex-soldier slid his other hand around to cup
Vincent's chin so he could trail his tongue along his jaw. "Lift your leg Val, I want to touch more
of you." The vampire did as ordered and was rewarded when Cloud's fingers found his spot
and ecstasy shot through his body. He bit his lip to keep from crying out as Cloud continued to
swirl his fingers in and out of his tight little hole.

Cloud continued to stroke and stretch his fingers as he trailed his teeth and tongue over
Vincent's neck and shoulder. He rubbed his chest against the sleek muscular back, making his
nipples pebble as his hips ground against the former Turk's buttocks. He bit his tongue to make
it bleed and pulled Vincent's lips around for a kiss. The ruby red eyes flew open as he tasted the
blood on Cloud's lips. "Wha..." Cloud met his gaze and slipped the dripping muscle into his
mouth. Vincent moaned and began to suck on his tongue, incredibly turned on by the eroticism
of the act. When the wound finally stopped seeping he let go, only to hiss as he felt Cloud's
thick cock pressing against his entrance.

Vincent groaned as he was slowly impaled, it hurt, but he knew pleasure would soon follow.
Cloud was easily the most well endowed man he'd ever been with and it was taking a little
longer than usual to get used to someone that thick. Finally, Cloud was inside him to the hilt,
their ballsacs nestled together. Vincent panted slightly as he adjusted to the feel of Cloud's
member throbbing within him. Then the blonde began to move.  "Mmm, so tight. I love the feel
of you Val, do you like the feel of me?" The vampire did his best to answer, but all that came
out was a low moan.

Cloud chuckled and nosed his raven black hair off his neck. "I'll take that as a yes." he said just
before he dropped his hand to cup Vincent's balls and gently roll them in time to his stroking.
The former Turk whimpered as he began to enjoy the feeling of having his lover pleasure him so
completely. "Ungh, Cloud, it feels so good." Cloud slipped his other arm around the brunette
and held him closer. "It feels good to me to Vincent, real good." He continued the slow steady
pace, enjoying the sighs and moans coming from his lover.

When it finally got to be too much Cloud thrust deep and hard, forcing Vincent's hips against his
own and holding him in place. Vincent felt the warm ropes of fluid shooting deep inside him,
filling him up and it sent him over the edge. Cloud smiled as the vampire arched against him and
sent his cum shooting a very impressive distance away.

Vincent lay there panting from the release. He was soft and spent. He moved his hips a little and
suddenly realized Cloud was still hard, again. "Damn it Cloud, where the hell do you get your
libido?" The warrior smiled against his neck. "Don't worry, it won't take long and one more
good cum should drain me." Vincent gave an incredulous glance over his shoulder. "Are you
always going to take twice to get done?" Cloud shrugged, "Like I said, I've always been that
way. Now, I've done gentle, so how do you feel about rough?"

The former Turk never got a chance to answer. Cloud rolled onto his back, pulling Vincent with
him and began an extremely brutal pace. He grabbed Vincent's hips and thrust upwards as hard
as he could while pulling the man down on him. He would pull almost all the way out before
slamming himself in again as deeply as possible. Cloud dropped his head and began to growl
like an animal. The feel of it was so good Vincent quickly grew hard again. He began to ride his
lover, meeting him thrust for thrust.  After a few minutes Cloud's rhythm began to falter and
Vincent could tell he was close. Then the powerful warrior let out what could only be described
as a roar and came one last time. Vincent's eyes flew open when he leaned up and bit his
shoulder hard enough to draw blood. Those were normal human teeth breaking his skin, and it
hurt like hell. But the pain combined with the pleasure of a cock jumping around inside him and
Vincent came as well.

Cloud fell back exhausted and truly drained. He could barely move. He didn't even bother
trying to pull himself out of Vincent's tight hole. He just yanked the former Turk down onto his
chest and dragged the blanket back over them. Vincent wasn't in any better shape and simply
lay there, draped across his lover's chest wondering when his heart would stop racing. Cloud
absently lapped at the wound he'd caused, tasting the salty tang of his lover's blood. Then the
two men kissed tenderly, "I love you Vincent Valentine" Cloud whispered. "I love you too
Cloud" he responded. They snuggled closer finding a comfortable position and drifted off to
sleep.

The next day they were both still sore, so they didn't have sex. Instead they squeezed together
in the tiny shower stall and gently washed away the previous day's lovemaking. Cloud told him
about his visit at Tifa's grave, some of the things he and Sephiroth had done before the tragedy
at this very city, and what little he could recall of his escape to Midgar with Zack. Vincent told
him about Lucrecia, his attempts to avenge her, and all that Hojo had revealed about his
creation.

The men managed to catch an Ark Dragon on their way home and Cloud prepared the
promised meal. To Vincent's surprise, the ex-soldier hadn't been boasting, the soup was even
better than the one served at the inn. Eventually, they made it back to the small cottage and
found their entire entourage waiting. The whole group spoke in unison, "Where the hell have you
two been and what have you been doing?!?" The men looked at each other and began to giggle
like schoolgirls, before leading their friends inside.

This time everyone decided to stay the night. Reeve was at home minding the children, but he
was still there as Cait Sith. It turned out the implants that allowed him to control the toysaurus
were permanent (though in typical Shinra style they hadn't mentioned that little factoid until after
the operation), so Cait would always be with them as well. The group gathered in a circle the
way they used to in the old days. Tifa's spot now filled by Elena. It had been a real shock when
Red had announced his love, but the group accepted it. With Rufus gone, Reeve, as the only
surviving member of the board of directors, became President of what was once known as
Shinra Corp. And the Turks' job was to serve the President, whoever he might be.Yuffie was
by the stereo, trying to get her husband's alter ego to dance without stepping on her feet. Elena
was playing a game of cards with Cid, and winning if the river of curses spilling out of the pilot's
mouth were any indication. Barrett and Red XII just sat in silence, preferring to watch.

Cloud leaned close to Vincent and whispered in his ear. The brunette blushed, but nodded. It
really was best to let them know. Cloud coughed and flushed a little as the chatter died down
and everyone focused on him. Yuffie stretched and cut down the stereo. "Umm, guys. We have
a confession to make." Elena yawned and said, "What, that you're both madly in love and intend
to continue staying together?" Both men turned to her in total shock. "We already know that you
boobs. We were just waiting for you two to figure it out." Cid smacked a fist to his head and
mumbled something about tact and that @#^%  woman putting her foot in it. The rest of the
party just turned kind of red (which was really impressive on Barrett) and coughed.

Cloud recovered enough to ask, "You....don't mind? You don't think it odd?" Elena shrugged
and tossed an arm over her mate's neck. "I'm in love with a talking panther, who am I to judge?"
Nanaki flushed even redder and chuckled. "What about the rest of you?" Barrett just blew out a
breath and mumbled, "Always knew you was weird. Still like ya though."  Cid shrugged and lit a
cigarette, "Whatever floats your boat guys." Yuffie smiled serenely and nodded.

She already knew about Vincent's attraction to Cloud from their days together so this was no
shock. Then she reached over and swatted Cait Sith across the head. "Oh, err yeah. It's fine,
I'm just trying to picture you two doing it. I mean....." Yuffie grabbed the little cat by the throat
and squeezed to keep him from causing anymore damage. He let out a squawk and began to
kick comically. Everyone dissolved into laughter and the party continued as it had started, with
the sounds of music and laughter drifting through the trees and up to the heavens.

END
 

Well that's it...I hope you enjoyed it. This was the first long lemon I ever wrote.