最終幻想(Final Fantasy VII fiction)小說

北歐主神-奧汀

首先我要聲明　我有得到permit(許可) 如下

夏目漱石這隻貓，在村上的海邊跟卡夫卡嬉戲，卻沒看到卑鄙的介川龍之芥拿著太刀在後方，結果三人都被黑格爾的謬論吞噬了；問：我在看哪一科？沒錯！就是數學！ 說:
oh,Yamuri,can I post your novel in my Chinese forum? ( will say this novel's writer and this novel is written in ACF )
夏目漱石這隻貓，在村上的海邊跟卡夫卡嬉戲，卻沒看到卑鄙的介川龍之芥拿著太刀在後方，結果三人都被黑格爾的謬論吞噬了；問：我在看哪一科？沒錯！就是數學！ 說:
I have to get the writer's permit ~ otherwise this action is violate~
Yamuri 說:
sure, go for it
夏目漱石這隻貓，在村上的海邊跟卡夫卡嬉戲，卻沒看到卑鄙的介川龍之芥拿著太刀在後方，結果三人都被黑格爾的謬論吞噬了；問：我在看哪一科？沒錯！就是數學！ 說:
thanks^^
Yamuri 說:
you#re welcome
Yamuri 說:
I feel honored when people like my work and want to post it on other sites
夏目漱石這隻貓，在村上的海邊跟卡夫卡嬉戲，卻沒看到卑鄙的介川龍之芥拿著太刀在後方，結果三人都被黑格爾的謬論吞噬了；問：我在看哪一科？沒錯！就是數學！ 說:
^^
夏目漱石這隻貓，在村上的海邊跟卡夫卡嬉戲，卻沒看到卑鄙的介川龍之芥拿著太刀在後方，結果三人都被黑格爾的謬論吞噬了；問：我在看哪一科？沒錯！就是數學！ 說:
I'm love it
Yamuri 說:
thanks

所以 希望善神阿帕跟超版不要誤解非法轉貼~
對了 建議高中以上再來看.....
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Chapter One
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Grown up in a world of destruction and betrayal his aim was to become a famous soldier to protect those in need. Up to an early age he was undertaking a special training so that it should be easy for him to pass the tests given to those who wanted to join SOLDIER, the elite force of the world wide operating organization Shin-ra.

Everyone new it was due to Shin-ra's mako reactor which was once placed in the subburb of his home town Gongaga, that the green and fertile village was desolated and ravaged.

Nevertheless people were still believing in the good intentionf of the company and were allowing their children to join SOLDIER. Each year SOLDIER was holding advertising campaigns in Gongaga, recruiting youths.

Like many other people he'd also planned to visit the presentation, but his parents demanded for him not to go alone since he was only 13 years old. They didn't want their son to be manipulated in subscribing something, but weren't able to accompany him on that day due to work which had to be done.

His younger brothers Yazoo and Kadaj weren't even allowed to see the convention and unfortunately his older brother Zack was suffering from a bad desease for a few days. Complaining about his badluck Loz sat in the living room, watching Yazoo playing chess with Kadaj.

"It's just not fair." he muttered silently, distracting Kadaj from the game.

"Hey, what's up brother. Shouldn't you be on your way to that convention already?" the youngest asked, looking a bit confused at his older brother.

"Zack is still ill. Mom and Dad have no time for me...damn it, I trained so hard and I looked forward to see the presentation. I wanna go, but I have noone older than me to accompany me." Loz replied sadly, sighing heavily and leaning back in his chair.

"Mom and Dad won't be back from work untill tonight and we won't tell anybody. Secret is save with us, right Yaz?" Kadaj objected, looking from Loz to Yazoo and back.

"You know Mom has a talent to find out anyways and you should better concentrate on the game. Check!" Yazoo answered. "And don't talk him into leaving alone. It's sad that he can't go now, but he'll be 14 next year and allowed to join then. One year more or less isn't the world." he said, throwing a concerned look at Loz and almost feeling as if he would be the oldest of them. "You'll be even stronger next year Loz and make it easily into SOLDIER. I'm certain." he tried to cheer him up.

But Loz did only mumble something incomprehensible and stood up to leave the room. He wasn't paying attention to his surroundings and almost ran into Zack, who had come downstairs to prepare himself some tea. "You still here?" Zack asked surprised and smiled warmly, stroking through his brother's hair. "I'm really proud of you. I can expect it's not easy for you to stay here all day, while you wanted to go to this convention."

"Nah..it's okay." Loz simply replied, pretending it wouldn't matter much to him anyways.

"You know what Loz. Since this presentation is lasting for the whole day, you may go there for at least an hour. Just be back in a hour, okay? You're old enough to take care of yourself and I'm sure Mom and Dad wouldn't mind. You can ring some friends and go with them." Zack suggested to his suprise.

"Really? Are you sure? I'm so excited...I'm allowed to go?" he asked effusively. "I'll ring my friends immediately. Thank you brother..thank you. I'll be back in an hour. Promised. And I won't sign anything, just watch."

Zack smiled and blinked at him, before fetching his tea and returning to his room. He had not been able to see his brother sad. It was his biggest dream to join SOLDIER once and he was certain nothing would happen to LOz, in case that he was accompanied by his friends and stayed only for an hour. An hour wasn't long and it was daytime anyways. Beside, the village wasn't too keen and if Loz would only leave to play with his friends he'd probably get a glimpse of the presentation.

Excited about the festival Loz left his home a few minutes later. Outside the house he joined some of his friends with whom he would visit the event which was hold at the market place in Gongaga. Lot's of people, also from other villages, were there and listening to what Shinra's Scientists, SOLDIER's and the Turks had to say. As Loz figured out it were the Turks whom you had to ask in case of joining.

He was well aware of not being allowed to subscribe anything but he might still ask them about the education. Not even realising as he lost his friends, while making his way through the crowd of people standing around the Turk's pedestal, Loz headed towards a black haired man who seemed to be the Turk's leader. Like the bald one and a red haired youth who was obviously a Turk in training, he was wearing a black suit with a name tag on it.

Unfortunately too many people were talking to him and he would probably have to wait a while untill it was his turn. But out of a sudden he saw himself face to face with the red haired one, who was smiling at him friendly. "Hey little one. Already interested in joingin SOLDIER?" he asked him.

Loz eyes grew wide immediately and he nodded enthusiasticly. "Yeah. Sure...it has always been my biggest dream and I trained much for it. But can you tell me more about the education and stuff? No offense, but it seems this guy over there...Tseng, is appropriate for the organisation stuff, isn't he?"

"Yes he is. but he would probably send you away again, since you're too young. Usually he's only recruiting youths who're at least 15 years old you see." he explained and smiled warmly. "My name's Reno though and if you're certain about joining SOLDIER at an earlier age I can tell you that you'll have to talk to my instructor Rude."

"oh...I'm not too young though. I might be just 13, but I trained for my whole life. Of course I can join before turning 15, but I will have to ask my parents about it first. Are there any documents I get? Anything I have to show my parents?" he asked curiously, but was cut off by Rude who had watched them for a while.

"Don't tell him nonsense Reno." the bald man said harshly, turning towards Loz afterwards. "I'm afraid kid, but you can't join unless you're at least 14 years old. That's the minimum. Please come back next year and I'll see what I can do for you."

"But..." Loz began, however Rude was busy again with talking to other interested youths. Reno did only shrug his shoulders and threw a pitiful look at him, whispering sorry before taking care of other stuff.

Disappointed and frustrated Loz left the convention, not noticing the pair of eyes following him.


Chapter Two
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A few hours had passed when Zack awoke from a deep slumber. Looking at the clock he saw it was late already and decided to pay his brothers a visit. Kadaj and Yazoo were still in the living room, playing some table games now while Loz couldn't be seen anywhere around.

"Hey Zack, you're up? Feeling better?" Yazoo asked, when he entered the room.

Shrugging his shoulders he leaned at the door frame. "Not really. My head seems to explode but I can't lay anymore. Just came down to distract myself." Zack replied. "Have you seen Loz already? I allowed him to go to the presentation for an hour. He should be back by now."

Both, Yazoo and Kadaj, were looking at each other interrogatively. "Honestly, we haven't seen him since he complained about not being allowed to go to the festival." Yazoo answered him, before Kadaj could even lie something. Usually Loz was obedient and that he had not come home already couldn't mean anything good.

"Maybe he went over to a friend and forgot about the time." Kadaj interposed, obviously not worrying about his older brother.

"It's alright. Don't bother yourselves. He's certainly around somewhere." Zack added, pretending everything would be fine. He was actually distressing himself already, since sucha behaviour wasn't typical for Loz. If he'd give Kadaj such a permission he could have been certain for something like that to happen. But not Loz. It was so unlike him.

Should he call their parents? No, better not. They wouldn't be pleased about him allowing Loz to go alone, although it had been only for an hour. /It's daytime, damn it. And he's old enough to take care of himself...still. If anything happened it's my fault./ Zack thought solicitously.

His anxiety even rose when he called Loz' friends, who told him they had lost track of his brother in the crowds on the market place. This was not good at all. Loz was probably still out there, alone. /You are responsible for him./ his conscience kept telling him and he knew what had to be done. Not caring about his health anymore Zack went back to his room to change his clothes.

Yazoo and Kadaj were both worried for him, when he told them he would have to leave to fetch Loz. But Zack knew it had been his mistake and therefore it was his task to take care of that problem. He didn't tell his brothers the truth about Loz being missed, since he didn't want to bother them about it much more. certainly the case could be solved easily. At least he hoped so when leaving the house.

However it seemed a harder task to fullfill than he'd thought. The market place was still crowded and whoever he asked, nobody had seen Loz. Finally he reached the Turks plattform, who were still taking care of their recruting business. "Excuse me." Zack appealed to the red haired one who didn't seem busy.

"You again?....Oh, sorry, it's not you. I've almost mistaken you with someone." Reno replied and smiled friendly. "Can I help you with anything?"

Surprised by the other's words Zack rose his eyebrow and returned the gesture. "Maybe. In case that you've seen a boy, about 13 years old, short balck hair, similar hairstyle than me, named Loz. he's my brother and I'm searching for him."

"Oh yep, I've seen him. He came around to ask me about the education and stuff. But Rude here scared him away, since we won't take any recruits younger than 14. Haven't seen him since then...and this was, wait a min'." Reno said, looking at his watch thoughtfully. "Well, three hours ago. But this place is big. Probably he's just lost. We might make an announcement. Just give me a second and I will sort this out with my mentor."

Zack nodded and waited for Reno to arrange the announcement. He was glad that those Turks were able and willing to help him and hoped Loz would be found soon. Thoughtfully he let his gaze wander around, when he became aware of someone watching him. A young man, in his late teens, was looking straight towards him. Green eyes pierced into his and he stepped backwards immediately.

Reno, who had just used the mircophone to call for Loz returning to the Turk’s plattform, had seen the unsettled expression in his eyes and turned his gaze in the silver haired man‘s direction as well. „That‘s Sephiroth, our best SOLDIER. You‘ve obviously caught his attention. Although you seem to suffer from some desease, by his looks I can tell that he sees great potential in you.“

„Oh really? Actually I haven’t planned to join SOLDIER. It‘s my brother’s dream.“ He told Reno, as Sephiroth approached them. Somehow Zack was suddenly feeling uncomfortable among those people and wished for Loz to show up. How came that he was wondering if their cordiality was just a facade?

„Your brother’s dream? I see. Maybe I can do something for him. I have my connections.“ Sephiroth suggested, greeting him friendly. „I’m sorry for not being able to talk to him when he came by though. Rude’s words must have hurt him much, since he left quickly. But I see, this potential within you lays in your family.“

„I’m certain he would be glad, if you could do that. But he’s not old enough yet and our paren’t wouldn’t want him to join SOLDIER now. They agree completely with the rules of 13 year old kids not being allowed to join. As for me, I feel honored but I prefer another path of life.“ Zack replied, watching out for Loz. But there was still no sign of his brother.

„It‘s your decision. But be sure that you have my full support in case that you ever decide to join. Excuse me now and good luck with finding your brother. You can easily get lost in such a crowd and it attracts criminals as well you know. I wouldn’t exclude anything.“ Sephiroth said, before leaving them to take care of his own business.

Stunned about the soldier‘s last words Zack’s eyes followed him. Sephiroth was indeed impressive, but also dangerous. Those last words had certainly be more than just a hint. He wouldn’t have said something disturbing like that otherwise. Did he know more about his brother’s disappearance? Or was it just random speech to talk him into joining SOLDIER? Thoughtfully he kept waiting, but not talking much to Reno anymore.

The entire situation was distressing. First of all Loz vanished, then the Turks behaved hyper kindly and the famous Sephiroth asked him to join SOLDIER? Besides, why didn’t Sephiroth go after Loz after he left? Zack didn’t believe the swordsman had been too busy. /He knows more...but he won’t tell me./ the black haired youth thought, after an hour of waiting. /Guess I will have to find out on my own what’s going on. But more and more, by watching those Shinra people I get the impression something isn’t right. They seem too perfect, too happy and all. I bet their behaviour is only a facade. But what are they hiding behind it? Maybe....maybe I should take Sephiroth‘s offer./

北歐主神-奧汀

Chapter Three
-----------------

/Loz, what happened to you./ Zack wondered, while walking back home after a few hours of waiting. Sephiroth and Reno had both ensured him to send some soldiers watching out for his brother. And he knew it wouldn't do anything good to his health if he stayed outdoors for longer. His headache was worse than ever and he was also suffering from a high temperature now. Still he was too worried for his brother to care about his well-being. At least it had been him who encouraged Loz to visit the event. Only one hour. He had not expected that even in Gongaga a lot could happen in such an hour.

"Where's Loz?" Kadaj asked when Zack returned in the evening, accompanied by their parents whom he called after not being able to find Loz. He was worn out and tired, not able to answer his brother's question. While he was still coiling with guilt, his mother was worried about his state of health much more.

In the meantime his father was discussion the matter of Loz disappearance with Kadaj and Yazoo. Untill their brother wasn't found none of them was allowed to leave the house without an adult coming along with them. Of course Kadaj tried to argue about his father's decision, but nothing would change his mind.

"They can't keep us form helping to search for bro..." Kadaj said later, when him and Yazoo were getting ready for bed.

"Look Kadaj, Loz vanished although he wasn't alone. Hundreds of people were outthere. Still nobody seems to know anything. Dad is just worried. Who knows what happened. Only one thing is for certain. Loz didn't run away. Something happened to him and we can only hope those soldiers are as good as it's said and they're going to find and rescue him." Yazoo tried to explain him. But knowing about his younger brother's dourness, it wouldn't be easy to convince him.

"But Loz was obviously seperated form his friends. We have only to look forward this doesn't happen to us." Kadaj objected.

"No Kadaj. We will do as dad said and if you don't listen, I will get Zack to help me to tie you up." his brothers replied virulently causing the younger one to shut his mouth and accepting the situation as it was. Usually Yazoo was the silent and calm one of them, but if someone upset him he could be worse than Kadaj and Loz together.

Being aware of that Kadaj didn't look forward to annoy him. Beside that he knew Yazoo was feeling responsible for him like Zack felt for Loz. More than likely Zack wouldn't calm down untill Loz was found.

The next few days Zack was recovering from his desease, but not yet from his guilt concerning Loz disappearance. Hundreds of times he asked himself what would have been if he had distracted Loz from the event or accompanied him in spite of his illness. Maybe his brother would still be here then. Furthermore he had enough time to think about the Turk's and sephiroth's behaviour towards him and also the strange looks some scientists, at the presentation, had thrown at him.

Maybe he would have forgotten about his suspiciou if Sephiroth had not shown up at their home some days later. Kadaj was pretty excited about the swordsman’s visit, while Yazoo cared less and followed Zack’s order not to show up downstairs Kadaj sneaked after him. He had to see the famous Sephiroth of whom Loz had told he would be a legend already, even though he was still in his early twenties.

Zack had lead Sephiroth to the living room to offer him some drink and have a talk with the young man, while Kadaj was listening to them at the door. Unnoticed by him Sephiroth was well aware of the young spy, but he wouldn’t show yet.

„Do you have any knews concerning Loz?“ Zack asked him, after both of them had taken their seats at the table. A worried look lay in the dark haired youth’s eyes as he waited for the silver haired swordsman to answer.

But by Sephiroth’s glance he could easily tell Shinra’s soldiers had not found him yet. „Unfortunately I have no good news. Actually we haven’t any informations about your brother’s absence at all, which is the reason why vice president Rufus has not contacted your parents yet.“ Sephiroth began to speak. „But due to the fact that we’re soon leaving Gongaga and I know about your concern, I thought it would be best to pay you a visit before that.“

„Nothing...even no track or any hints? He just disappeared and nobody noticed anything?“ Zack repeated in other words what Sephiroth had just told him.

„I’m very sorry and I can assure you, our soldiers won’t give up on your brother. He’ll be found eventually.“ a friendly smile passed the young man’s lips but for a single moment Zack had the impression it was a wicked smirk. What was this smirk for, or had it just been the reflection of the room’s lamplights? Probably.

„However, your brother’s disappearance isn’t the only reason for my visit. As I told you at the event already, such festivals attract bad people as well. People who would do anything to disprovit Shinra.“ Sephiroth continued to speak.

„So you mean Loz was kidnapped by such guys? But why? He isn’t even a soldier in training.“ Zack wondered.

„Have you ever heard of the group called Avalanche?“ the silver haired asked, instead of answering Zack’s question. „Those rebells are working against us for some time already and if they had the chance to they would certainly kidnap young recruits to brainwash them, so that those talented youths would fight on their side against us.“ He explained.

„So you mean those rebells are behind this?“ Zack gasped in shock.

Sephiroth nodded, his eyes piercing into Zack’s eyes. „I’m almost certain about it. Those guys tend to show up on each disposition we hold. And as far as I could find out about it, tracks of them were found in the entourage of Gongaga. Although we’ve made sure to enforce our safety arrangements they find always new ways to slip in.“

Thoughtfully and worried Zack sighed and looked at him. „Is there anything we can do? You know how I feel about the whole matter. I can’t just stay here and wait.“

„As I said before, you have great potential and would have the appropriate age already. You might be a good addition to our elite and I‘m certain you would make it easily into SOLDIER.“ Sephiroth suggested and Zack meant to see a strange look in the young man‘s eyes again.

/Avalanche./ he thought, still trying to figure out what exactly was going on in Sephiroth’s mind. The swordsman was like a big secret to him, which he had to solve. /Why do I doubt that this group has anything to do with it? And where comes this suspicion Shinra is hiding something? I have to find out, although I know it’s what Sephiroth wants me to do. This might all be part of a plan, but I have to go for it./

Chapter Four
----------------

For a while they kept sitting at the table silently and Kadaj, who'd listened to their conversation, was even able to hear their breath. As his brother he was shocked by the news that Loz had been kidnapped, but unlike Zack he wasn't questioning the motives and actions of Shinra and its soldiers. Curious about the denouement he stayed in his hideout, waiting for Zack’r reply on Sephiroth’s suggestion. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of hush, his brother rose to speak.

„As you can imagine I feel very concerned about the current events and I would do everything to get my brother back. If you‘re certain that my joining SOLDIER might make a difference, I’ll think about it.“ He said, looking at the silver haired warrior earnestly.

„You won’t regret it Zack and you have my full support. As soon as your training will be complete, you can lead a search party, since we won’t give up on Loz untill he’s found.“ Sephiroth assured him, before standing up and shaking hands with Zack to say goodbye.

„I’ll join you and the last group that’s going back to Midgar tomorrow, in case that I decided to go with your suggestion.“ Zack answered, leading Sephiroth back to the front door. He wasn’t trusting the silver haired, but joining SOLDIER seemed the best idea at the moment. At least it wouldn’t be a suicidal mission to search for his brother when he became a first class SOLDIER himself.

When they left the room Kadaj hid in a corner immediately, but Sephiroth stopped suddenly looking at his lair. „I know you’ve been spying on us. Why don’t you show yourself?“ he asked, a slight tone of amusement swaying in his voice.

In the first moment Kadaj hesitated and his heart beat faster due to his nervousness, but since Sephiroth was staring in his direction he decided to reveal his presence. Looking at his brother guilty he stepped forward to greet Sephiroth. “I didn’t mean to spy on you, it’s just…” he began to speak but was interrupted by the silver haired sowrdsman, who seemed not angry at all.

“Don’r worry, It’s alright. I suspect you’re concerned to know about your older brother’s whereabouts as well.” He said friendly.

“Yeah, of course, And I wanted to see you as well. Loz told a lot about you though. You’re his example. You’re the great Sephiroth, right?” Kadaj kept talking, even though he noticed Zack glaring at him a bit annoyed and alarmed. After this talk he would certainly get a speech about obedience.

Stroking through Kadaj’s hair Sephiroth noded and smiled gently. “Are you also interested in joining SOLDIER?” he asked curiously.

Almost drawn to say yes Kadaj looked at Zack whose eyes pierced into his own worriedly. Laughing slightly he shoke his head. “No, not really. I’m no the type of person to follow orders.” He lied quickly, seeing as his brother sighed in relief.

“Well the. I wish you good luck with whatever you’ll do once little one. Although I have to say, the potential I see in your brother, obviously lies in the family.” Sephiroth replied, walking over to the front door.

Kadaj grinned brightly, but kept silent while Zack and Sephiroth said good bye to each other and his brother closed the door again behind the swordsman. /Cool guy./ the boy thought. He was indeed speechless. Sephiroth was even seeing potential in him. Great. But to some odd reason Zack didn’t feel well about it at all. What was his problem? “I’m sorry bro.” He whispered when Zack turned back at him.

“Well, actually you deserve punishment like doing the dishes or whatever, for a month.” Zack said earnestly, his eyes narrrowing dangerously. But then his features changed again and he smirked as if nothing had happened. “But I guess it won’t change anything, He saw you already.” The dark haired youth added thoughtfully.

“He was pretty nice. So, what do you worry about?” Kadaj wondered.

“Ah, it’s nothing Don’t bother yourself with it.” Zack grinned widely, palming through his younger brother’s hair.

“You’ll leave, right? Can I please come with you, helping to search for Loz.” Kadaj begged. But to his unsatisfaction Zack shoke his head.

“No Kadaj. You stay with Yazoo, mom and dad. It’s enough that he saw you already, which I wanted to avoid. Be a good boy, okay. I’ll send letters as often as possible and all I ask you for is not trying to join SOLDIER untill we can be certain that they have nothing to do with Loz’ disappearance.” He said earnestly.

Surprised about Zack’s words Kadaj muttered something and crossed his arms in protest. “But why should they help, if they were behind it?” he objected immediately.

“I’ve thought about this already and I hope my suspicion is wrong. Still, we don’t know for sure yet. It’s better to be careful and we might have lost Loz already. That’s one of us too much.”

“Okay, okay…I promise to obey this time. Although it’s hard. I don’t want mom and dad to be sad, in case that something happens to us too. But if you vanish like Loz did, you can’t keep me from searching for both of you. So, when are you leaving?” Kadaj asked curiously.

A sad expression passed his features, but it was gone seconds later. “The last group will go back to Midgar tomorrow morning. Guess I have to leave then. On the one hand I feel quite excited about it, on the other hand I will miss you. Everything happened so fast, that we won’t even have much time for saying good bye.”

“Will come to visit us during your vacations?” Yazoo, who had just come downstairs to join them, asked hopefully.

“Sure. As often as I can. All that’s left now is convincing mom and dad of my plan. But they would have allowed Loz to join SOLDIER in one year and since I’m a year older than him I guess it should work. Even though I know they won’t like to see me leave. Not after Loz disappeared like that.” Zack answered, hugging his younger brothers.

“If anybody can find and rescue Loz it’s you.” Yazoo said cheerfully. Both him and Kadaj had no doubts about Zack’s ability to solve their current problem with success and although Yazoo was more interested in science work than military he was happy for him.

The rest of the day all of them spent with packing stuff and discussing future plans. Since Zack wouldn’t see them for a long time Yazoo and Kadaj created a present for him to remind them each day. Three little amulets with pictures of each of them, attached to a silver necklace which Zack could wear or add to his equipment.

Later on, as Zack predicted, is wasn’t such a big deal anymore to convince their parent’s of letting Zack go to join SOLDIER. To remind his heritage his father’s Buster Sword was given to him as present, before he left for Midgar in the next morning. Even though he was separated from them, his family would always remain in his heart.

Chapter Five
-------------------

One and a half year passed by since Zack had left Gongaga to join Soldier. In th meantime he had trained hard under the leadership of Sephiroth and made it into the first class SOLDIER group. As Sephiroth had predicted he had shown great potential and talent. Therefore he was allowed to accompany the swordsman on his missions already. During all those months Zack had never broken the contact to his family and had put an attentive eye on the happenings within the training center in Midgar. But nothing strange or suspicious had aroused his attention and to his discontent they had also not found any signs of Loz as well.

Nevertheless he had not given up on him yet, even though he didn’t show his eagerness too much anymore. It was then, on the same evening after the ceremony was hold according to which he was officially made a first class SOLDIER, that he should receive a new glimpse of hope.

While enjoying his free time he’d been visiting a few shop in Midgar to find a present and card, which he wanted to send his family, when he met her for the first time. She was standing alone at the entrance of a dark corridor somewhere in the middle of the city, selling flowers. An aura of innocence and pure light seemed to surround and shine through her and Zack’s first thought was the question what such a girl did in an environment like this.

Attracted by her eyes, the dark brown her she was wearing in plaits, the pink dress and blac boots she was clothed in he felt himself separated from the physical world for a moment. Something special was about her and he decided for himself, that he had to look forward of getting to know her better. Like a ray of hope she had appeared in this world of darkness and the rarity of flowers in Gaia was only a second reason for buying some.

They didn’t talk much, except exchanging a few words about the flower’s beauty, Midgar being a rough place and his family. But he promised to himself he would come back later to talk to her again, probably asking her out. Although he doubted a young woman like her would ever date a soldier, there was no reason for him not to try.

Unfortunately he didn’t see her again, when he came back from his shopping tour a few hours later. Had she been an imagination or an angel? At least she had appeared like one. Sadly about having lost her and angry about his stupidity of not asking her out in the first place he decided to join a group of friends who were headed towards the local pub.

Having fun would distract him, cause he doubted he would ever see her again. Midgar was too big and she had not seemed to be the kind of person who stayed longer than a few hours at one place. Zack could also understand that. If it wasn’t for his brother he would have never come to Midgar to become a SOLDIER. Dark clouds were always hanging over the city and dust filled the streets.

Lost in thoughts he was barely listening to his friends when some people caught his attention. He’d seen them two years ago already, at the arrangement which had been hold in Gongaga. One of them was a dark haired man, whom Zack recognized as Tseng - the Turk’s leader. He was accompanied by a bald man named Rude and they were obviously searching for someone. At least they were talking to the barkeeper and several other people, asking questions.

After a while Zack decided to walk over to them and see what he could find out about their concerns. “Hey guys.” He greeted them friendly, leaning against wall. “No luck? You seem quite lost in here. Can I help you with something?” he asked curiously.

Both men looked at him suspiciously and exchanged an questioning look. Even though he was a first class SOLDIER, Zack could tell by their looks that they didn’t like his curiosity. Probably they knew what a type of person he was. Open and always eager to ask questions. He was also aware that his inquisitiveness might get him into trouble once. But being confident about his future, he wouldn’t care about that now.

Obviously the Turks didn’t bother themselves with it much as well. Handing over a picture to him they asked if he’d seen the person it showed.

A bit surprised Zack studied it thoughtfully. The Turks were searching for the flower girl and he wondered why, immediately. “Well, I suspect nobody could oversee such a beauty. “ he replied after a while. “What’s so important about her?”

“None of your business Soldier. Our task concerning her is top secret.” Rude answered him, taking back the picture.

Smiling cheekily as if he didn’t care Zack nodded. “Well then, I will inform you in case that I hear about her. But I doubt you’ll find her in Midgar. Guess she wouldn’t stay long in sich a place, especially when Shinra headquarters are here and she’s hunted.” He said, waving a good-bye at them and turning back to his friends who were talking and having fun at the bar.

But he wasn’t as relaxed as he pretended to be. All his thoughts were concentrated on that girl again. Although he didn’t know what they wanted with her, he had the sudden need to protect her and prevent that she would be taken. “Hey guys,…” he said not much time later. “I’m heading back into the city center. See you later.”

Leaving the restaurant Zack walked more or less aimless through the dusty streets of Midgar. Luck seemed with him tonight or maybe it was even fate, that someone was suddenly crashing into him. Recognising the pink dress Zack catched her fall, but placed a hand before her mouth quickly, so that she wouldn’t scream.

Not far away he was hearing familiar voices and he looked forward to keep the promise he’ given himself. “Hush.” He whispered, pulling her into a narrow street, blocking the view and removing his hand carefully. “It’s me, Zack. You remember?”

She stopped struggling in the same moment, but even though she seemed to recognise him she seemed still suspicious.

“Where did she go?” a voice shouted and footsteps were nearing them.
“This direction! She can’t be far!”

Aware of the danger Zack grabbed for her hand and lead her through the lane. Noticing as she hesitated he slowed down. “I won’t harm you. Please trust me.” The young SOLDIER whispered. He wasn’t certain yet where to take her to, but they had to leave fast. Those Turks were on their track already and he wouldn’t allow them to find her.

Running along dark lanes and placing wrong tracks, they found themselves suddenly at the entrance of a church again. Stunned about the fact that it had been her who rescued them by taking the initiative and leading them to this place, while it had been him who wanted to save her, he followed her into the cathedral.

北歐主神-奧汀

Chapter Six
----------------------

When he entered the church Zack felt as if he was drawn into another world. Moss covered the ground and parts of the wooden benches, while a soft breeze blew a few leafs inside the cathedral and the light which fell through the windows created some sort of rainbow in the air. As he could see an open door lead into the backyard where a small garden rejoiced the watcher’s view. It was the most beautiful place he’d ever seen and if he had not known better he might have thought that this was part of the promised land. But the so called promised land was nothing more than a legend, like the Ancients who inhabited Gaia long before them.

Probably he would have kept standing at the garden’s entrance, overwhelmed by the flower’s beauty if the girl had not distracted him. “Thank you for helping me.” She said softly. “My name is Aeris.”

Laughing slightly Zack shoke his head and smiled gently. “No problem. Beside it was you who brought us to this hideout. It’s amazing. How did you know about this place?” he asked curiously.

“I live here, since I was separated from my mother.” She replied, looking at him sadly. “It’s the only place around where I can get those flowers to grow. I will trust you, that you will keep this place a secret. You have a good heart.”

“I won’t disappoint you. This place is indeed special, like you. Pure and full of light. An angel, sent to bring back what we lost. If you want me to, I could become your personal bodyguard. I would like to get to know you better.” He replied, taking her free hand into his.

A shy smile passed her lips as she turned towards her garden. “Even though you’re a SOLDIER, you seem different. I’m glad that we met and I guess you’re the one I dreamed about.”

“Well, I did only join SOLDIER since my younger brother vanished a few years ago and I hoped that becoming a SOLDIER might be of help. Unfortunately I haven’t found any life signs of him yet. But I won’t give up on him.” Zack answered cheerfully, but his eyes narrowed when she talked about the dream. “You dreamed about me?” he wondered.

“I dreamed about a SOLDIER who would make a difference. The dream wasn’t clear though….but my mother told me that dreams have always a message and I knew that I had to stay in Midgar for being able to meet him. Do you believe in fate Zack?” she asked, her eyes meeting his.

He had listened to her words carefully and a thoughtful expression lay in his features. “Well, I’ve never thought about it. But I guess it might be possible that our life is determined by fate and accident. Who knows?” he said then. “But may I ask you why the Turks were behind you? I can’t imagine that you should have commit a crime of any kind.”

Aeris sighed again, lowering her head sadly. “They hunt me since I was a child. I was born in their laboratories. But my mother managed to escape and take me to a safe place. She gave her life for my sake. I had a wonderful step mother who looked over me. To guarantee her safety and to seek for the SOLDIER from my dream I left her and went to Midgar.” She told him. “But tell me about your brother. Did the thought occur to your mind that Shinra might have something to do with his disappearance, as you told?”

Surprised about her suggestion Zack let go of her hand and looked at her confused. Something in her voice had sounded as if she knew something or as if her words were meant as a hint. “Why? No…uhm, actually I’ve given it a thought in the beginning, but then I came to the conclusion that I could trust Sephiroth. I haven’t found any proofs for my theory anyway. Although, I haven’t found anything out about Avalanche either.”

“Avalanche?” Now it was her who seemed puzzled. “What do you know about them?” she asked curiously.

“Not much, only that they’re enemies of Shinra. But why are you interested in them? Concerning the information I got from Sephiroth they aren’t very nice guys and they might have kidnapped Loz though.” Zack replied, wondering about the mystery which was still surrounding her.

Her eyes grew wide when he told her about Sephiroth’s tale and she even receded. “Has he ever shown you a proof?” she whispered.

He simply shook his head and shrugged his shoulders. “I’m still not certain if I should believe him but I have reason enough to suspect you might know more. If you can tell me anything, please. I would be thankful.”

“As far as I know the people from Avalanche have never kidnapped someone before and their aim isn’t to destroy families but to save them. Yes, they would do a lot to prevent people from joining Shinra and SOLDIER, but they wouldn’t sink that low. They want to protect the planet while Shinra is slowly destroying it. I don’t blame them for their lack in knowledge but their hunger for power and energy made them blind for the needs of the planet.” She explained sadly.

Zack sighed and went over to her, having the sudden necessity to comfort her. Those innocent eyes couldn’t lie. “You speak of own experience, right? Concerning those experiments?” he asked carefully.

Aeris nodded, resting in his arms. “I barely remember…but I still see. And I know a few people from Avalanche. That’s why I know about their aims. They wouldn’t do such a thing, like kidnapping kids, instead they would have brought him back if they found him.” Raising her head she looked at him earnestly. “Tell me about the circumstances of your brother’s disappearance. Were SOLDIERS around on this day?”

Narrowing his eyes Zack hold her closer in the moment she mentioned his past. “A presentation was hold in Gongaga on that day. Loz went over to learn more about how to become a SOLDIER. He even talked to the Turks. Afterwards he wasn’t seen anymore. But I couldn’t find any proofs.”

“They work silent and professional. And they know how to hush up their actions. But as you know Avalanche sends spies to each of their conventions. They might have seen something, even though they wouldn’t interfere.”

A gleam of hope passed by as he listened to her words. “You’re indeed an angel. Would it be possible for you to arrange a meeting, between your friends from Avalanche and me? I would like to talk to them and you can trust me that I won’t betray them. Nobody except us shall know about it.”

Again she nodded and he had the strange impression as if she’d already known he would suggest this. Smiling at her brightly he hugged her once more. “Thank you, Aeris. I hope it helps to reveal the whole mystery about Loz disappearance.” He was glad of having met her, not only due to her physical and psychical beauty, but also because she’d given him new hope.



Chapter Seven
------------------------

Meanwhile, far away from Midgar, Kadaj and Yazoo were playing chess again while waiting for their mother to prepare lunch. Both boys had learned to cope with the situation of having lost their older brother Loz and Zack being far away from home. Luckily he was sending letters regularly and never forgot to send birthday presents, as they did for him as well. Most times they created something by their own, like pictures or hafts with photos of each of them.

Since Kadaj had founded a small group of people, who were looking for old artefacts, exploring ruins and also the closed mako reactor in the suburb of Gongaga and were doing excavations, he attacked original stuff to the packages - sent to Zack - sometimes as well. Obviously he’d forgotten about Sephiroth again and to his parent’s satisfaction he wasn’t even thinking about also joining SOLDIER anymore.

Unlike Zack and their parents, who thought Kadaj had accepted the possibility of Loz never coming back, Yazoo was the only one who realised that Kadaj’s interest in research stuff was his way to support Zack. He knew well enough that their parents and Zack wouldn’t ever allow him to join SOLDIER, thus he’d found another way to search for their lost brother.

Yazoo had accompanied him a few times, but since he was participating at the local science program, which was hold for people interested in becoming scientists, he was spending more time at school and with studies. Even though he was always eager in getting news about Zack’s and Kadaj’s discoveries. It was indeed incredible what kind of strange stuff could be found in the ruins of the old mako reactor and the deserted part of Gongaga.

But Yazoo doubted that Loz went there. Actually he was more or less believing Shinra had something to do with his brother’s disappearance, while Kadaj was open for each theory considering Loz’ whereabouts. Only about one thing they were certain. Loz was still alive, since he just had to be alive. And their father kept telling that as long as no corps was found there was always hope and they shouldn’t give up even if it took them several years to find him.

This day Mr. Donovan had come home from work later, since he’d went over to the post office to fetch a package from Zack. Kadaj and Yazoo had already waited eagerly for it to arrive. Maybe it would finally include hints for Loz whereabouts, although it was doubtful. As always the package consisted of two long letters, one for his parents and one for his brothers, and this time five presents as well.

Since none of them had birthday these days the presents were obviously signifying something else, especially the beautiful flowers Zack attack to them. Where did he get those? As far as they knew the climate in Midgar was even worse than in Gongaga. Turning off their game Yazoo and Kadaj set down on the sofa to read the letter and open their presents.

“Dear Yazoo, dear Kadaj,” Yazoo read loudly, Kadaj leaning against his shoulder and reading as well while Yazoo was speaking. “How are you? Hope things are still going well for both of you. I’m very proud about your success concerning the science academy Yazoo and the research group you founded Kadaj. Keep up the good work.”

Both youth exchanged a wide smile, before Yazoo kept on reading. “As for me I’ve passed the latest exam to become a first class SOLDIER and I’m now second in command to Sephiroth. I’ve written about this in more detail in the other letter. But I guess you won’t be interested so much in all the military stuff and I think I’ve told you enough already in earlier letters. I was a bit bored lately, until I met this girl.”

Laughing slightly Kadaj tapped on Yazoo’s shoulder, who grinned back at him. “Zack has a girlfirend.” He said, raising his eyebrows and causing Kadaj to laugh even more. “He has also attached a pic of her.” The older one added.

“Where? Show it!” Kadaj shouted, trying to get the photograph, which was hidden from him by Yazoo. They started to wrestle for it, until their mother came in to look after them. Immediately both boys pretended of having read the letter and smiled at her innocently.

“Your brother made it pretty far in the SOLDIER program. It’s a pity that he can’t be here with us, celebrating his success.” She said.

“Don’t they have vacations?” Yazoo asked curiously, handing over the photo to his younger brother so that he could also look at it.

“He has never written about it, so I guess not. But since he’s second in command to this famous SOLDIER, maybe he can work something out. I hope so.” Their mother replied. “Well, then. When you finished reading you can come eating. Meal is ready. And in the afternoon we’ll go over to the cafeteria and celebrate.” She added, leaving the room again to take care of the meal.

“She’s as beautiful as her flowers.” Kadaj whispered, when they were alone again.

“Who? Oh, she…Aeris. According to his letter she gave those flowers to him and she has even a secret garden in Midgar where flowers can grow. Amazing.”

"Cool, what else? Go on!" Kadaj replied enthusiastically.

Leaving out the parts he told about already, Yazoo continued reading. "Thanks to Aeris I was also able to dam up our theories concerning the whereabouts of Loz and I'm now certain that Avalanche isn't responsible. I’ve met a few people from the organisation and what they’re doing isn’t bad. They’re also willing to help us and suggested I should be careful around Shinras scientists. Maybe you can find some files in the old mako reactor. Anyway, I decided to keep an eye on the Turks since they were the last people who saw Loz alive and I’ also intensifying my relation to Sephiroth. It’s obvious he knows more and I hope he might tell me something once, even though I doubt it. If he knows something he also knows how to hide it. But sooner or later someone from Shinra or the Turks will make a mistake and you can be sure, I will be there.”

Kadaj’s eyes grew wide when Yazoo kept on reading, but he remained silent and listened. “Well, enough about this. Take good care of yourselves and keep on sending me letters. I appreciate them very much and always love to hear from you. Miss you all a lot. Your brother, Zack.” Yazoo finshed.

“So, he does actually believe Shinra or even Sephiroth is behind Loz disappearance.” Kadaj whispered. “Damn. Do you know what that means?”

Yazoo nodded. “They might have done this on purpose to get Zack joining them and in either way Zack is in the lion’s cave. Let’s hope they won’t realise that he’s spying on them. But as we know him, luck will be on his side.” He said, blinking at his younger brother. Cleaning up their stuff he got ready to join Kadaj, who had left for the kitchen already. They would talk more about everything later.


Chapter Eight
------------------------

Another year passed by since Zack had met Aerith for the first time. Since then he dated her regularly and established relations with Avalanche. Furthermore he looked forward to spy on the Turks, not only to protect his girlfriend, but also cause he hoped they might talk about something importance once. Only a little sign which could proof his and Aerith’s suspicion would be enough. And one day he should eventually make a disturbing discovery.

He’d just come from training, looking for the test results of the new recruits, since Sephiroth wished that Zack choose a pupil for himself, when he was able to listen to a conversation going on inside Tseng’s office. Reno and Elena weren’t around, but the Turk’s leader and Rude were talking to a young cadet, who had not passed the test to become a second class soldier yet. Curiously as always Zack kept standing near the door, staring at the lists on the boards and waiting.

The blond teen, who was sitting on a chair in front of the huge desk, looked at Tseng nervously before he began to speak. “I know already about my failure, but I had a bad day and thus I would be glad if I could redo the physical test. My other test results were excellent and I’m certain I can pass the other test if you allow me to redo it.” He said hopefully.

A strange smile passed Tseng’s lips as he rose from his seat to stand before him The boy felt even more nervous now but was still confident about a positive outcome. But his hope shouldn’t be satisfied. “Well. You see, only one exam and test is done each year. We have lot’s of recruits and it’s a huge amount of effort to be done. You have to understand that it’s not possible to make an exception for a single cadet. Other’s would come and ask for it as well then.” The dark haired man explained.

“Yes. But…” the youth replied sadly but didn’t finish his sentence. It would be senseless to talk about it anyway. They wouldn’t allow him to redo the test. But when wanted to leave, Tseng lay his hands on the boy’s shoulders and pressed him back onto the seat. “Wait. There might still be a chance for you to become a second class soldier this years already, Cloud.” He said with a low voice.

“Really?” uncertain and confused about the whole situation, but seeing hope again Cloud looked up and leaned back on his seat.

Again Tseng smiled friendly and nodded. “I can see your disappointment and it’s quite obvious that you look forward to do the test for becoming a first class SOLDIER next year already. Therefore we could make an agreement. We can manipulate the test results and you will do me a little favour.” He explained, smirking almost wickedly now.

“A favour? What kind of favour would it be?” he asked suspiciously. He didn’t like the look in Tseng’s face, nor did he like Rude standing behind him. Why had they cornered him? What did they want from him? More than anything else he wished for them to let him go immediately.

Tseng laughed slightly, petting through Cloud’s hair. “You’re such a sweety. So naïve and innocent. Isn’t it obvious what I want? Certainly you won’t like it but you would get something in exchange, something you want so badly.” He whispered.

Cloud’s eyes narrowed and he decided for himself that enough was enough. Breathing deeply he forced himself to look at Tseng directly. “Okay, whatever it is…I don’t care and I don’t want to know the details. It’s alright for me to redo the test next year. Can I go, please?” he asked.

“No.” Tseng answered simply, grinning at him widely. “See, we aren’t finished with you yet. It was you who came to ask about this and I have to make sure you won’t tell anybody.”

“I won’t. I will just forget about this incident and move on. You don’t have to threaten me.” Cloud objected, but his voice was slowly fading when his eyes met Tseng’s cold eyes. There was no need to tell him. He knew already that they wouldn’t let him go. What could be more humiliating than failing tests and treated badly by the other recruits he wondered. Being abused?

Without any warning Tseng bent down and lay his hands onto Cloud’s knees, while Rude grabbed for the boy’s arms to pull them back and prevent him to struggle. “Be a nice boy and it won’t hurt much.” He whispered, causing Cloud to shiver.

“I don’t want this. Let go of me please. I promise not to tell anyone. My mouth will be sealed.” Cloud begged him, not caring if he sounded weak or not.

“No way. I wouldn’t get a better chance.” Shaking his head, Tseng let his hands wander over Cloud’s chest and bent down to kiss him passionately..

Cloud’s eyes widened, but he reacted quickly and bit into Tseng’s tongue. Almost enjoying the man’s surprised look he even tried to struggle, even though he knew that he had no chance to escape. Not as long as Rude was holding him and Tseng kept standing that near, so that Cloud wasn’t able to tread him.

Wiping the blood off his mouth Tseng looked at him angrily and before Cloud could react he stroke the boy fiercefully. “You do this again and I won’t be gentle with you anymore. Understood?!” he threatened him.

Gulping hardly and shivering more, Cloud nodded fearfully. He got enough beating from his fellow cadets. Holding back his tears and closing his eyes, he hoped it would be over soon. But instead of another kiss he heard a knock at the door and Rude loosened his grip.

“If you tell anyone I’ll make sure that you’re thrown out of the academy.” Tseng whispered in his ear and went back to his own seat, giving Rude a sign to open.

Cloud sighed in relief but couldn’t stop shivering. He knew he made a narrow escape, but his fear wasn’t gone yet. What if Tseng forced him to stay? Or if the newcomer decided to join them?

But when the dark haired began to speak he was convinced already of his good intentions. “Hey, what are you doing with him? Shouldn’t you encourage him? So why is he shaking from fear?” he said harshly. “And don’t tell me this isn’t what it looks like. You know very well who I am. Zack Donovan, second in command to Sephiroth. If you ever try to harm him or another cadet in any ways again, Sephiroth and Rufus will be informed. By me!” Zack added, walking over to Cloud whose eyes had widened after hearing his rescuer’s name.

Blinking at the boy friendly Zack lay a hand on the blond’s shoulder, who was now looking up at him shyly. Tseng and Rude didn’t say anything, but starred at them with blank faces.

“Come with me. We’re finished here.” With those words Zack threw a last nasty look at Tseng and took Cloud by his hand to take the young cadet with him.

北歐主神-奧汀

Chapter Nine
--------------------

Finally they made a mistake, even though Zack had not suspected something like that from them. Hoepfully those guys had not hurt Loz, cause if they had they would pay dearly.
He would make sure of that. How dare them threaten and touch a young boy like that? Zack was still in a bad mode, but he wouldn't show since Cloud would need support now. If he expressed his anger it might only frighten the boy again.

"Are you alright?" he asked after a while, smiling at Cloud friendly to make him feel more comfortable.

Still nervous, but this time due to another reason Cloud nodded. "Yes….Thanks." he whispered, lowering his head. Certainly Zack though of him as weak and useless. How should he think anything
else, after he'd not only failed in the tests but also in defending himself.

Zack noticed Cloud's uncertainty and hold the boy’s hand firmer. “Hey, you aren’t thinking it was your fault, are you?” he asked worriedly. “You can believe me, it wasn’t. Just forget about them, I’ll make sure they won’t bother you anymore.”

“No…I…well, but if I had passed the tests.” The blond started, but was interrupted by the older soldier.

“They would have had the opportunity to invite you to a special meeting nevertheless. See, when such guys want something they would do everything to get it. Don’t think about them anymore. You won’t need their help to pass those tests.” Zack replied, palming through Cloud’s hair. /Poor kid./ he thought. /This isn’t the right place for you. You’re too good for Shinra, thus your heart seems still to be pure. I can tell this by the look of your eyes. So, guess I have my apprentice now, cause I won’t allow that your mind is corrupted and your body abused./

“How can you be sure? I mean, they could manipulate the tests.” Cloud disturbed his thoughts.

“Manipulate your test results? Nah, I don’t think so. Since they won’t control them anymore. See, Sephiroth asked me to seek for someone with great potential and to train him. All first class SOLDIERS have this task once. Each of us gets one apprentice and in case that you agree to become mine, only I will have looks on your tests and if I come to the conclusion that you’re good enough you will become second class and later fist class. Unfortunately we have to follow the one year rule. But I can make sure you’ll pass the test next year. What do you say?” Zack suggested, enjoying the surprised look in Cloud’s eyes. Obviously he would have never thought about a first class SOLDIER like him to show interest in a newcomer.

“You would really do this? Be my personal teacher? Support me?” a smile passed his lips, but seconds later the blond’s face darkened again. “Why should you be interested in me? I’m nothing, while you’re second in command to Sephiroth.” He had not forgotten about this and he couldn’t believe Zack was meaning what he’d just said.

“Your self confidence is pretty low kid. How come?” he asked, slowing down and looking at Cloud directly, not realising that his action of holding Cloud might confuse and frighten the boy again.

“It…it’s the truth.” Cloud whispered, tears forming in his eyes. “I’m weak and helpless…not even able to defend myself.”

“Listen kid. I don’t know who planted such ideas in your little head. But that’s nonsense. You aren’t worthless and you have as much potential as everyone else, maybe even more. Your only problem is your self-confidence. But we can change that.” Zack said, hoping it would encourage the younger one a bit.

“Why?” Cloud asked, after a while of silence. A gleam of hope, but also fear lay in his eyes. “How can you see something in me? What’s your advantage?”

“My advantage?” Zack laughed slightly. “Look, Sephiroth wanted me to take an apprentice. Actually I couldn’t find anyone who caught my interest. But you’re different. You aren’t a mindless soldier like most of the other cadets. You joined for a reason, right?”

Being distracted from his negative emotions Cloud nodded. “I want to help protecting people. I want to become like the legendary Sephiroth.” He answered shyly.

“You can Cloud. Just give it a try and stop thinking of yourself as being useless. Have faith in yourself, skill will come later.” Zack continued encouraging him.

“But I have to do you a favour in return, right?” he whispered, remembering Tseng’s words at the office. “I…I can’t.”

“I’m not like them Cloud and I’m not only suggesting to train you since Seph wants me to take an apprentice or because I get an advantage. I’ll tell you something. The only reason I joined SOLDIER is to help finding my brother who vanished under strange circumstances a few years ago. In some way you reminded me of him…it was probably due to the situation you were in. I remembered the time when I was not able to protect him, to prevent his disappearance. I couldn’t get them away with such a crime and you see, the best way to make sure that you’ll once be a first class SOLDIER and out of their reach is for me to train you.” Zack objected.

“I’m sorry….” Lowering his head Cloud sighed sadly.

“Hey, no need to worry. I’ll find and save my brother one day and I’m not mad with you. It’s okay. I shouldn’t have expected such a reaction. You’re still in shock about the current events and how should you know that I won’t do the same.” The dark haired grinned, palming through Cloud’s hair.

Finally Cloud was smiling again, looking up at him with bright eyes. “Thank you. I don’t know if I deserve it, but I will train very hard and give my best. I won’t disappoint you, never and I’ll help you to find your brother. It’s the least I can do.” he asked carefully.

Smirking cheerfully Zack nodded. “That’s the right attitude. I’m certain you’ll eventually fill your lack of self confidence and in about two years you’ll also be able to take your first apprentice.”

“We are friends then?”

“Yeah, for eternity.” Tapping friendly on Cloud’s shoulder he lead him to his room where they could discuss everything in detail. Zack was looking forward to distract his pupil from his bad memories and make him move on quickly. Sooner or later the incident would be forgotten, at least for Cloud and hopefully also for the Turks. Otherwise it would be difficult for him to spy on them some more and he had to reveal all their secrets. It might lead them to Loz.

Talking to Sephiroth could work of course, but some part of his mind wasn’t trusting the swordsman completely and therefore he would remain silent about everything he was up to. Furthermore he would keep Cloud out of trouble as far as possible. If anybody should ever find out about his plans and relations to Avalanche his new friend shouldn’t be involved, since nn some way he was reminding Zack of his brothers.
Loz’s values, Yazoo’s purity and thoughtfulness, Kadaj’s willpower - all in one person.


OOC: That's the end of the first part of the novel which plays before the whole Sephiroth incident. Since I will be on vacation and completely offline until august 21th I won't post anything until then. Wish you a all a good time and hope you enjoied chapter nine and will also like the upcoming chapters. Greetings, Yamuri


Chapter Ten
---------------

Another year passed by and Cloud should get a chance to redo the tests to become a second class soldier soon. He hadn't had any encounters with the Turks anymore and was getting along much better with his fellow soldiers, since Zack was personally training him. Not only were his skills increasing, but other's used to give him more respect. Cloud knew well enough that they were probably only acting friendly cause he was hanging around with Zack very often, sometimes even with Sephiroth. Due to the fact that he knew about everyone only wanting to be his friend because Zack cared for him, the young soldier decided not to make friends with any of them. He'd rather stay alone than spending time with such friends. Beside that his schedule was full with training anyways, Zack was looking forward he would specialize himself in different fields, as weapon skills and Materia use, and endowed Cloud extra lessons in mental capabilities. Probably he wouldn't become as outgoing as Zack, but he should at least open up and strengthen his self confidence.

Zack watched proudly over Cloud's development and was reliantly about his student and friend to pass the upcoming tests. Even Sephiroth, who had been sceptical in the beginning, was now seeing Cloud's high potential and if his own duties wouldn't have kept him too busy he might have even considered taking him under his wings, as he'd done with Zack a few years ago. Thus he'd nothing against Zack's proposal of letting Cloud coming with them, when they were sent on a mission together.

Less did they know at this point about Shinra's true intentions and how much was known already about Zack's secret life. Since Zack's encounter with the Turks, when he saved Aeris from being captured, he was observed because certain people became suspicious how a normal girl could have escaped from the Turks. Therefore they knew about his secret meetings, but unfortunately little about how much Zack knew already of their dark machinations. While the mission seemed to be routine, it was actually the first step into solving mysteries from the past and entering a long way of suffering, which was still laying ahead of them.

But Zack wasn't bothering himself about past and future during those last days before they would head towards Nibelheim. As far as they got to know monsters had attacked the city and it was their task to protect the citizens and discover the reason for the problem, including an examination of the Mako Reactor in Mount Nibel.

Even though his pupil should feel honoured about being allowed to accompany his best friend and the mighty warrior Sephiroth, Cloud didn't feel well at all. For the whole day, before the mission's start, he was remaining pretty silent and by the looks in the boy's eyes Zack could tell that something was wrong. He should be happy, especially since they were visiting the blonde’s hometown. Instead he was behaving like a picture of misery. Zack had to do something against. He didn't want to see his friend in pain.

“Hey, what’s up with you buddy?” he asked, when they headed back to their rooms after their evening training. “You seem beside yourself.”

Cloud looked up at him shaking his head and smiling as if everything was alright, still remaining silent. He didn’t want to bother his friend, with his own twisted mind. Zack was proud of him, but he couldn’t feel the same way about himself. Tomorrow they would head towards Nibelheim and he was no SOLDIER first class yet. /When I come back I’ll be a SOLDIER./ he’d promised his family and friends shortly before he left for the academy. Now it looked as if he wouldn’t be able to keep that promise. It made him feel miserable and he couldn’t do anything against it.
“Damn Cloud, why are you refusing to talk to me? I’m your friend. You can tell me everything.” Zack said, laying an arm around Cloud’s shoulder and making him look at him. Something was wrong and he had to find out what it was. A terrible suspicion occurred to his mind and his eyes darkened. “You know that I will protect you Cloud. So tell me what happened. Did anybody hurt you again or is it because of the mission?” he asked solicitously.

The blonde avoided his look, shaking his head once more. “No..it’s nothing. I’m fine. Since you train me everyone is acting nice towards me. Don’t worry.” He whispered.

“Hmm…” a thoughtful expression lay in the older one’s eyes when he removed his arm again, walking beside Cloud silently. “You aren’t a good liar Cloud. But I get it, it has something to do with your hometown. Is there anybody you don’t want to meet..or wait… It’s because of those creatures attacking your hometown, right?” he asked carefully.

“No…really Zack. It’s alright. I’m happy that you let me come with you and my family is doing fine. I got letters from them. They aren’t in much danger. I’m certain nothing bad happened to them.” Cloud assured him.

“Well then, if it isn’t that. Do you still bother about the upcoming tests? I’m certain you’ll make it easily. Beside, if you do well on our mission, we might get your papers signed even without you having to do those ordeals. I’m certain Sephiroth will also support us.” The dark haired soldier replied, tapping on his companion’s shoulder cheerfully.

“Thanks for the support Zack, really. I’m glad that you train me and all. But it’s not actually the exam…I don’t want to bother you with it, cause it’s just silly you know. I’m thinking to much...that’s all.” The blonde answered, entering his room and hoping Zack wouldn’t follow and ask more questions. Unfortunately his wish wasn’t granted.

“See Cloud, when something is bothering you, you will feel a bit under the weather tomorrow. Whatever it is, just tell me. I won’t laugh, promised and it remains our secret.” Zack said instead, leaning against the door frame and raising an arm as if to say ‘I swear it’.

Sitting down on his bed, Cloud looked over at him thoughtfully, bit waved him to come in and sit down a few moments later. “It’s about Nibelheim, you’re right. I would have been happy about each mission, but why Nibelheim? See, when I left my hometown…well I…..I’m not a SOLDIER yet, but I wanted to come back as one. I’m still just in training.” Cloud finally admitted.

“Oh I see…” Zack’s features lightened up again and he nodded conceiving. “That’s your problem? Hey, this shouldn’t be too difficult to solve. I’ll just avoid calling you by your real name and since you’re the only one I ever call buddy anyways it shouldn’t be a big deal. Furthermore when you wear the average soldier uniform and avoid meeting and talking to friends and family nobody should get, that it’s you.” He suggested, glad to see Cloud smiling again due to his words.

“Okay. I guess I can do that." the blonde replied, relaxing a bit. "Thanks again…I really don’t know anymore how I shall ever pay back what you did for me.”

“Don’t worry, I’m certain the day will come.” Zack blinked at him and stood up, to leave again since it was pretty late already and they had to be up before sunrise in the next morning.

to be continued....



首先 作者是Yamuri 可愛的德國女大學生~
出處是ACF (http://http://forums.adventchildren.net)

轉貼有得到作者認可 請勿任意轉貼 尊重著作權
其中 英文拼字有少處有誤 希望見諒 (我自己跟作者都有發現)

其實很好看 希望對英文還不討厭的朋友可以看一看
當然 這裡面並非完全按照FF7真實劇情 這是小說

跟作者也認識一段時間了 好人一個^^

大頭小松松

有人可以把名字翻譯一下嗎...
我的問題在人名上>"<...

北歐主神-奧汀

Zack=雷克(該怎說阿 就是ZACK)
其他 Loz ...等等三人組 就是銀頭髮的那三人呀...
AC裡面的

帕拉丁

整理亂成一團的自己~卻不知該如何整理起 說:
英文@@!!!!

夏目漱石這隻貓，在村上的海邊跟卡夫卡嬉戲，卻沒看到卑鄙的介川龍之芥拿著太刀在後方，結果三人都被黑格爾的謬論吞噬了；問：我在看哪一科？沒錯！就是數學！ 說:沒錯!!正解!!(指)

整理亂成一團的自己~卻不知該如何整理起 說:........Orz

====================================================================

這下字典有的查了....XD

~幽皇~

英文.....在學校裡  只能說是殘念...回到家   用譯典通翻看看...不要說偶懶阿>"<~~~人家也是很想學好英文的>"<~~~   謎之聲  騙誰阿  接受我的制裁吧  阿達~~~~     阿~~~~~~好討厭的@#$%&*

北歐主神-奧汀

或許可以把翻譯後的小說PO上來?

儘管文句不會很通順 至少對於英文看不懂的人比較有利...

jay99

thanks for sharing such good relevant novels abt FF7AC... (though it's not original written by FF7's producer~"~)