Chapter Text
The sails had slacked from loss of wind and the surface of the ocean was like glass, smooth without a single ripple or wave. The sun had started to sink below the horizon painting the sky with various pale pinks and oranges. A lot of the day crew stood around waiting for their captain’s orders. They’re attention turned to the raven haired man, when he walked towards the railing.
Zack sighed, and muttered. “Wonderful.” Sarcastically under his breath, when he took in their surroundings. The members of his post joined him, each exchanging worried looks between them.
Cloud stood beside him with wide eyes. He’d never seen the ocean so still before. It was eerie. The horizon and sea became one singular scape- the longer he watched. Kunsel had called this a calm? The name sure fits.
“Of all the rare shit to happen at sea- this is what we get?” Sebastian grumbled, kicking at one of the crates. This was rare? Cloud watched the varying expressions on the surrounding Wraiths- most were grim, including Zack’s.
“Yo- I thought you would be glad it's not a storm.” Reno joked, lazily throwing an arm over Rude’s shoulder. Their poker game- long forgotten.
Sebastian hissed and kicked the crate again, "Don't jinx us you damn bilgerat!"
“Calms can last for a while.” Kunsel informed the redhead, finally emerging from the captain's quarters, and slotting a green materia into his bracer as he approached. “Shall we give it the rest of the day?” He asked Zack, ignoring the wolf whistle from Reno.
Zack shrugged half heartedly. “If we do get some rest and check the ether supply, Kuns.” He turned his attention to Essai and Sebastian. “Let the crew know we’ll be resting for the night.”
“What is the meaning of this?” Rufus’ voice rose over the murmuring of the as they started to disperse. Zack rolled his eyes, and pushed Kunsel back towards his cabin. Gaia knew how much energy his friend was going to spend tomorrow. Sure he wasn’t Genesis level with Materia, but he was still one of the best when it came to control, and Gaia knew they needed someone who wouldn’t accidentally rip the ship and sails apart- with the wrong level of wind spell.
“It's called a phenomenon for a reason. Can’t blame Zack for what the planet decides to do with its weather.” Cloud sarcastically retorted at the heir, before Zack even had a chance to speak. Who knew Cloud was so spikey in more ways than one.
“Tch. I wasn-”
“Goddess' flamin knickers! Cap’in! If I may ask-” Finan butted in effectively cutting Rufus off. Ignoring the glare thrown his way, the bearded sailor threw a wink and a grin at Cloud, and continued. “If we be hav’in a ni’ht off. Can I?” He grinned, edging more and more into Zack’s bubble. “Please? It a calm~”
“Do what you want.”
Throwing his fist into the air Finan cheered. “Time to show ye land dwellers, a real Wraith experience. Specially ye yer highness." Cloud watched as the older Wraith dragged prince Shinra across the ship with him. Where the hell did Reno and Rude run off to? They vanished rather quickly when Rufus showed up. Should he go babysit him? Shrugging to himself; Cloud decided against it- it was better to leave him with the enthusiastic Wraith. Goddess, one wrong word out of the man's mouth and Cloud would chuck him overboard. Besides he should be fine, Finan seemed like the easy going type. If not, one of the Turks could go fishing. Looking around Cloud noticed three people who had yet to show as well. No doubt Gen and Seph were probably still rolling around in bed not even realizing the ship had stopped. Angeal was most likely in the galley cooking, Cloud's mouth watered a little at the thought of the bulky first's food. He liked Cookie's but the elderly woman tended to add a lot of salt and zero spice. Cloud had a tiny hunch Angeal decided to help because he couldn't stomach the mush much longer either. He hoped supper would be ready soon.
“What's Finan planning?”
Zack chuckled and leaned back against the railing, the setting sun illuminating him from behind. “His old captain was rather fond of shanties. I told them only when we have a calm- will I allow it."
"Old captain?" Cloud asked, taking the chance to hop up and sit on the railing beside Zack. Definitely something he would not attempt if the ship was moving. What would make this whole setting perfect was a nice breeze, the stale air was heavy and made it feel like everything was clinging to his flesh.
"Admiral Styllion, my understanding- he was a beast of a captain, retired early to settle down with his husband. He's the man I have to thank for breaking the old ways." Zack explained.
"Old way?" Cloud felt like a broken record but he really didn't know much about Wraith's old ways. Hadn't they always been the same?
Zack's shoulders drooped a little, "About ten years ago Wraith bought; were not allowed to hold any post. Styllion was a Wraith bought- that became a Captain and then an Admiral. Because of him, Boughts are now allowed to hold a post." Closing his eyes and tilting his head back Zack sighed. "The five of us would of just been swabbies or as Kunsel puts it- cannon fodder."
Some of the crew went about lighting lanterns and somewhere the sounds of multiple instruments- an accordion, guitar, tin whistle, fiddle and bodhrán- drifted around the ship, as a chorus of voices joined in. Finan's being the loudest as he led the other sailors in song.
Cloud felt the tension that he had for weeks since stepping on to the ship, leaving his body. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and held it for a few seconds, listening as more voices joined in for the chorus. Exhaling slowly, he copied Zack and tilted his head up to the sky. If sailing was like this all the time, he would enjoy it more. Shame Zack didn't allow them to do this more often, but he understood where Zack was coming from- just like Cloud, the man was military. He ran the ship just like how he would command an army.
"So, let’s go boys, we’re over and under. We’ll roll through like thunder. To bring her back home. Here we go, boys- With the waves crashing under, O Lord I half wonder, How we’re not in the foam?" Cloud found himself joining in with the crew even from his perch on the railing. It wasn't often he would sing, only when the moment took his fancy. Cloud had to admit the song was catchy and Finan had the charisma -in his voice- to get people to join in. "Cause we’re through with our plunder, And we’ll haul her back home. And we’re not yet asunder-So it’s land where we roam." Zack completely stilled beside him, and his breathing became shallow. The instruments died down and cheers erupted from the crew, and just as fast a new song was starting. Opening his eyes and looking down, Cloud was met with Zack's entrancing gaze and found himself becoming lost in those glowing pools- that reflected the lantern light. The world around them melted away until it was only just the two of them.
The glow of the lanterns illuminated Zack's sun-kissed skin, giving him an unearthly, warm shimmer. It was enticing. Cloud's body moved without his permission and he leaned slowly forward, closing the distance between them. Warm breath danced across his lips, just a tiny bit closer and they would seal the others perfectly.
"I hate to interrupt again but... Genesis is looking for Cloud."
The Soldier and the Captain jerked away from each other. Cloud straightened up a little too fast and started tipping backwards over the railing as he lost his balance. A large hand wrapped around his forearm before he could take a swim with the fishes and steadied him. At the captain's death glare; Kunsel held his hands up and smiled sheepishly- sorry he mouthed at them, and scurried off, before Zack decided to turn him into whale food.
Avoiding Zack's gaze, Cloud jumped down from the railing. Maker's breath, he almost kissed Zack. Clearing his throat awkwardly, he looked everywhere but at Zack. "I should go find my mentor."
By the time Zack was able to form the words, Cloud had already disappeared into the crew. Rubbing a finger over his lips, Zack looked out towards where his crew was. "You go do that..." He muttered into the empty air, "I have a first mate to tie to an anchor and drop into the ocean."
Finding Kunsel in the crowd was pretty easy; the brunette tended to stand out- without his signature helmet to hide his pretty face. Grabbing him by the shoulder Zack dragged him away from Essai's side. The other raven giving a salute of farewell to Kunsel.
"Do I get a promotion if he's dead?" Essai called after them as they disappeared to a less crowded area of the ship. Kunsel glowered, showed how much Essai really loved him, the man just wanted his rank.
As soon as Zack released him- the shorter of the two had his hands up in surrender. "Hey now! I really hate interrupting you two. I got a lot of gil riding on you two getting together, buddy."
"You’re betting on Cloud and me getting together?"
"Zack... the whole crew is." Kunsel sat down on a barrel, careful to keep enough distance between him and Zack- should his best friend decide to murder him. "Most are betting on you two rolling in the sheets before we reach land."
"Cloud's my friend! that's like saying- you and I would-" Kunsel raised a brow, and gave him a look that said really now? Zack stuttered, a blush painting his cheeks- when he was so kindly reminded of the times he and Kunsel blew off steam together on long voyages. "T-That was only two times! You and I are not the same as Cloud and I!" Zack waved a hand between the two of them to emphasize his point.
Kunsel just smiled and leaned close to Zack, "You know you wanna..."
"What?"
"Fuck Cloud." he whispered, the last part so quietly that Zack's enhanced hearing almost didn't pick it up. Throwing a suggestive wink and a wide grin at Zack, the brunette snickered when his friend's blush rivaled a ruby red tomato.
Zack sputtered even more, words failing him. "Only when you get with that turk!" Zack mentally facepalmed, that was stupid. Knowing Kunsel- he would too just to make Zack eat own words.
Kunsel smirked, and leaned back, "I mean- I'm betting on you guys hooking up when on shore, but if that's what it takes." He exaggerated taking a deep breath. "Then I guess I gotta. No way am I losing out this much money." Zack paled, he really did dig his own grave. Hell he might as well have made sure to bury himself too. "If you don't- yeah know with Cloud- I will. Hope that's some motivation to make a move."
"Kunsel!"
The brunette just shrugged and stood, "What can I say- I'm a good wingman." Blowing the captain a kiss, and giving him one more wink, Kunsel started back towards the helm. "Now if you'll excuse me- I'm gonna go steal your bed- for the rest of the night. Nighty Zacky~"
Zack just stood there dumbfounded. How in all of Gaia, had he not ended up murdering the other by now. Zack scoffed, this stupid bet between his crew mates, was absurd. Sure he found himself watching Cloud a little too closely sometimes, but the blond was stunning. Grabbing a tankard from one of the sailors that passed him, Zack took over the crate Kunsel had previously occupied. Zack mused over his thoughts of the young soldier. Many of his sailors called Cloud a pretty lad. Well that was rather true, the blond was rather feminine in features; alabaster skin that colored easily, elegantly shaped brows, slender jawline, high cheek bones, perfectly straight nose, plump shapely lips, striking mako eyes and a light dusting of freckles. If Cloud hadn't been in his uniform- with that massive sword slung across his back- Zack would of mistook him for some nobles son.
Zack had been around his fair share of nobles and despite being that person who had a good opinion about most people- he had a low opinion on them. Royals were just the same as royals in his mind. All annoying, demanding spoiled beings that did not know hardship, or labor. Rufus Shinra was a prime example of that, already throwing his messes at others to clean up. He did not even care who he pulled into fights. The man was fitting of being a merchant prince.
Something else that caught Zack's attention about Cloud was- he was short, not Rowdy short, but a good head shorter than Zack. Perfect for tucking him under his chin when giving the other hugs.
Another thing had been earlier today, when Cloud mentioned his father being a Wraith. That would make the blond a Wraith born. No one left the Wraiths even, Cloud's father. Leaving the Wraiths was something that was almost unheard of- sure they were mercenaries of the sea, but one does not simply leave the Wraiths. To leave the Wraiths meant death, too many secrets that could be sold so those that left were killed. Simple. It was for their own protection. When Cloud had mentioned his hometown, Zack had pulled searched for hit on the maps. There was no sea close, which would mean his father left the Wraiths to be with Cloud's mother... unless.
Cloud's mother was a Wraith... She knew a lot. Even then to leave- how was she still alive?
Zack shook his head, he was getting off track. Back to the point Kunsel brought up. Would he sleep with Cloud? Sea Goddess' tits hell yeah. Was he in love with the blond? Like a friend. Had they almost kissed tonight? Oh yeah. Damn it Kunsel. Downing the rest of the tankard, Zack hummed under his breath. Maybe he would be nice to his first mate, after all they were going to be sitting in New Midgar's port for a bit. And Kunsel really was going to throw himself at the redheaded turk- to make Zack take the leap with Cloud. Just have to test the waters with the blond and see where it went.
The crew was still singing and music filling the normally silent creaking decks. Night had blanketed the sky and the stars came out to play. Zack frown it was a new moon. In a few more days they would reach the port and he would be land bound in Shinra territory once more. At least he'd get to see Aerith again.
Hours passed and singing slowly died down, most of the crew already retreating to their hammocks- to sleep the last of the night away. Supper had already been passed around two hours before, and even then Finan never stopped singing. The former first mate could carry a tune; Zack would give him that.
Zack found Cloud at the helm looking out over world of stars- and it really was a world of stars. The ocean mirrored the sky above creating a never-ending starry sky. Sliding up next to Cloud Zack nudge the blonde's shoulder lightly with his.
"So this is where you vanished too after Gen was through with ya." He had seen the red commander with the general watching as the crew relaxed. Even joining in on a few rounds of cards, but Zack had not spotted Cloud since.
Cloud shrugged, "I'm not big on peopling." He inclined his head towards the never ending world of stars. "Plus I wanted to take as much of this view in. Doubt I will ever see something like it again. Its breathtaking."
Zack found himself watching the other soldier- how the stars twinkled off of his mako eyes, and his pale skin glowed. Zack muttered a quiet; "Yeah." He really was breath taking.
The blond not realizing he was currently the one holding Zack's attention- let out a sudden gasp and grabbed the wraith’s arm. “Zack! Did you see that!?”
“Huh?” He had been so distracted by watching Cloud he failed to see anything but the blond.
“The falling star.” Looking following the others line of sight, Zack tilted his head up and looked to the sky. The stars were a common sight he was used to seeing daily- but to sit back and watch the sky without it having to be for navigating? He rarely did. He had seen a few falling stars in his life, usually on moonless nights he may get a small chance to witness one falling, as he looked to the stars to guide.
Cloud laughed as another one streaked across the sky, a long tail of white trailing behind it. An idea popped up, and Zack stepped away. At Cloud's questioning look he spoke. "I'll be right back."
Jogging down to his quarters, Zack carefully slipped inside, making sure to be as stealthy as possible, to keep from waking his bed thief. Grabbing the blankets and two pillows that were neatly folded on his couch Zack slipped back out and returned to Cloud.
Holding up his prizes, Zack beamed. "Well how about it? Feel like some star gazing?" Glowing mako eyes swept over him and the bundle in his arms, before becoming a little bit brighter. Placing one of the blankets down on the deck along with the two pillows, Zack flopped down and patted the spot next to him.
"Come on, Sunshine. Promise its not that hard."
Cloud blushed and looked away, but still laid down and situated himself on the blanket. "Shouldn't you be getting some sleep?"
"Kuns took my bed."
Folding his arms behind his head, Zack focused on the sky above him; he could make out some of the more common constellations- like the hull. A purple star caught his eye and he grinned nudging Cloud a little he pointed at it.
"See the one that is purple? That's Velima's Promise. Legend says the Sea Goddess' daughter, placed it there as a promise to help the Wraiths- to guide them in the seas her mother swore none would sail."
Cloud hummed and Zack felt a warm weight on his shoulder and the other's head laid against it. "In Nibelheim- we call it Fenrir's Heart. A hunter who sought the wolf god's heart as a trophy failed to find it because Fenrir had placed it amongst the stars to protect it."
"Okay, that's pretty cool."
Cloud laughed sleepily, and snuggled closer to Zack. "The stars have a lot to do with my village... every legend... ties..." The blonde trailed off, and Zack waited few minutes, before realizing that Cloud had fallen asleep just like that.
"Night Cloudy." he whispered before closing his eyes as well.
"Dude, they didn't! The bets still on! Take that Rowdy." Kunsel's voice carried from the front of the helm, waking Zack. Groggily the raven tried to sit up only to find himself pinned down by a blonde octopus. Huh? Oh yeah... he had fallen asleep shortly after Cloud. Pain shot through his back as it protested the abuse of sleeping on the hard wood floor.
"Why sleep here though?" Luxiere voiced up. Zack groaned his post most be awake.
Kunsel's laughed, "I stole his bed. good thing too they look rather cozy over there.
"Oi Zack! Rise and shine Princess~" Essai yelled, making Zack groan once more. Would it be wrong to throw them over board and replace them with the old post? Cloud stirred and slowly pulled away, no doubt the racket the others were making ruined his sleep. Mako eyes cracked open a hair before, widening as he realized where exactly he was, Cloud shot up right, a blush dusting his cheeks.
"Morning Sunshine." Zack stretched and gave Cloud a lazy grin.
Both stood, and Cloud retreated to the far end of the helm, putting at much space between him and the grinning behemoths. Below the crew was already bustling about and preparing for whatever Zack had planned. Just in time too as the three first made their way up the stairs. Gen's gaze flicked over to Cloud and he gave his student a tiny smirk.
"So Puppy. How do you plan to combat this current situation." He drawled.
"Kunsel has it handled."
No sooner than he finished, a green shimmer circled around Kunsel and a wind picked up- filling the sails once more with life.
"Oh."
In the predawn hours- the watcher from the crows nest cried; "New Midgar! Ahoy!"
A few days ago they had once again caught the wind after alternating between Kunsel and Genesis. The red head figuring out just how much control he needed to keep from accidently ripping the sails and shattering the masts. Now they were due to dock in less than an hour. Most of Cloud was beyond elated at the prospect of solid ground- while the small part of him- that watched as Zack took control of his ship and guided it into port, felt hollow. This was it. Maybe the last time he would ever get to see the other. It was weird to see him with his buster sword strapped to his back, a small reminder of who Zack once was.
They made dock, as the sun fully crests the horizon. The land crew was quick to get them tethered. The moment the gangplank was secure- the crew set off like a swarm of ants- to go about their new tasks now that they have docked
Cloud was at the helm in his usual reading spot, just watching as Zack did his magic. Rufus and his Turks and the other three SOLDIERs were at the gangplank, waiting for when they could touch land. Once the Kraken is secure Zack was right at Cloud's side, his hand briefly sliding over Cloud's hip as he passes. A small farewell. Earlier in the cabin Zack had pulled him into a bone crushing hug that last for several minutes, and felt like all Cloud's ribs were going to break. He knew it was the Wraith Captain’s way of saying farewell one last time. The never receding feeling of longing pulled at him, and Cloud wished he could abandon it all and stay. Watching the captain’s retreating back as he left the ship, Cloud could feel that bit of sadness and empty longing wash over him.
This was it. An end to a peaceful time.
Falling into his spot beside Genesis, Cloud schooled his face into a blank mask, as they followed Rufus off the ship. Cloud inwardly groan when his legs wobbled and he felt like he was going to be sick. Zack had warned him about land-sickness, he honestly thought the Captain was joking.
Finan walked past them and Sephiroth stopped him for a second.
“Tell your captain thank you again for us.”
“Aye I will. May the wind al’ays be at yer back.” Finan nodded to them and continued on his way to- what Cloud assumed was- the Harbor office.
“So where to next?” Genesis asked, being the first out of the group to ask.
"The former Governor Heidegger, is right over there. How absurd, It seems he is making me come to him." Rufus huffed, before giving in and walking towards the larger gruff man. Cloud wished they could just skip the formal meetings and get to the part where they had rooms; so he could just sleep away the nausea that attacked him.
The moment Heidegger started speaking Cloud tuned him out. He had a few dealings with the man when he was in the standard army, gruff and long winded. Not to mention he had a temper that rivaled Genesis. Heidegger's beady eyes swept over the four SOLDIERs and he scoffed, turning his nose up at them.
"I'm afraid we don't have accommodations for the general and his men. Perhaps an Inn will suffice until they've been made?"
Rufus barely spared them any attention and dismissively waved Sephiroth off. "That's fine. You may leave."
Before Genesis could lash out- Sephiroth had hand around his bicep and proceeded to drag him away.
"Let us find an inn. Young Master Rufus is in capable hands." Sephiroth's feline eyes narrowed, "You will find us accommodations soon." Cloud smirked when Heidegger's face turned various colors, at the order. With a swish of his coat and silver hair, Sephiroth was leading them away from the pompous pricks.
“Oi Seph!” Zack called and jogged over to catch up with them. “Mind if we tag along? We're heading to the tavern ourselves.” Leaning in close Sephiroth, he added, “Besides do you even know where the tavern is?”
"Zachary were you eavesdropping?"
Nervous laughter escaped Zack as he rubbed at the back of his neck; "Might of overheard some... Man Heidegger still has beef with you huh?" Placing Kunsel between him and the General., Zack gave them his best kicked puppy look. "So can we?"
"You make a valid point. This is unfamiliar territory-" Sephiroth looked towards Angeal and Genesis, who both nodded, "Very well, lead the way, Zachary."
"Come on man how many times have I told you to call me Zack!"
"I will when you start calling me by my full name."
Falling into step with the two wraiths, Cloud and the others followed them down the streets- making turns and passing through different alleyways. The banter between them passing the time. They finally reached a building that had seen better days. Stepping in the strong scent of ale hit them, barely anyone was in the tavern- as it was still too early in the day. The tavern keep looked up, a small look of disapproval crossing his features when he caught sight of the wraith pendants Zack and Kunsel wore. He lightened up when he noticed the four warriors that were dressed differently.
Ignoring the two wraiths- he grinned at the obviously wealth travelers. “Morn’ to ya what can I do for ya?”
Sephiroth took a small step back, he had seen the annoyed look that flashed through Kunsel's eyes, “They were here before us.” and motioned toward the captain and first mate. “See to them first,"
The older man ground his teeth but he wasn't one to turn down coin; “What can I get ya scum?”
Cloud raised a brow, was that anyway to talk to customers? Zack might have mentioned Wraiths were not as well received by others but witnessing the treatment firsthand was eye opening. Zack just flashed a charming smile- that didn't quite reach his eyes- and continued as if he and the barkeep were best buddies.
“I’m looking to buy a few bottles of brandy is all. My stock is low.”
“Seven gil a bottle.”
Zack passed up twenty one gil like it was nothing. The barkeep glowered clearly not pleased at the loss of humiliating his prey and retrieved three bottles. The Wraith Captain smiled and saluted the man- saying, “Send Tegan my regard I think some of me crew will be seeing him tonight.” Passing by Cloud he winked "Good luck in getting rooms- Seph! Don't get robbed." He and Kunsel left. Cloud pressed a little closer to his mentor. The place was kind of rundown and shady.
The man spat on to the ground and looked at the General, "How many?"
Sephiroth arched a brow a tiny bit. Maybe he was just spiteful after the rudeness expressed to his friend, scrunching his nose up in disgust as a rat scurried over his boot- the General finally decided.
"Is there a better inn?"