If you'd like to apply to Snowblind and would like to test the waters first or get a sample set up for your application, this meme is for you! We've even provided some prompts for you to use if you want (but feel free to make up your own). Here's how it works.
✭ Reply to this entry with a character you're considering apping into the game. You can include the name of your character and the fandom in your subject line. ✭ Comment around to others on the meme, whether you're in the game already or not. ✭ Now you have a sample ready for your application! ✭ So go reserve and apply when reservations and applications are open. ✭ Seriously, do it.
Network Prompts
ONE: SPAM IS MEANT FOR A CAN You awoke today to find a private message in your inbox full of glitchy text from an unreadable username. It doesn't seem to be from @ADMIN, and it's doubtful that any of your fellow unfortunate survivalists have the ability to send a bunch of garbage text from a dummy username. Any attempts to contact the sender of the message only yield silence.
Perhaps your friends on the network will have a better idea of what's going on.
TWO: DING DONG PING PONG You found an app on an SD card that lets you play a game--the app simply refers to it as "game," but those who are familiar with Earth's gaming history will recognize it as Pong. The graphics have been updated, but the mechanics are as simple as ever. Just bounce the ball back and forth and try to hit it past your opponent. This version lets you play with a friend over the network and supports chat simultaneously, so you can video or voice chat while playing with someone!
Or you can use text, but that would probably be inconvenient while you're trying to play.
Action Prompts
THREE: BABY IT'S COLD OUTSIDE The blizzard has been raging worse than usual for nearly a week now, making travel incredibly dangerous. You and your travelling companion have been stuck in the same house since the weather went out of control, and it's starting to have an effect. While you've not yet succumb to the dangerous fugue that would lead you out into the snow, cabin fever is definitely starting to set in for you...and whoever you're stuck with.
As long as you keep telling yourself the eyes on the walls aren't real. You're the only one who can see them, after all.
FOUR: A TENT-ATIVE FRIENDSHIP Everything has locked down for the night, and it looks like you're trapped outside. This almost certainly means death, but maybe you don't have to take it lying down. You walk for a while, and--what's that? Through the snow, the light of your tablet faintly illuminates the shape of a tent. It seems someone else is stuck out here, too, but they've been luckier in their searches than you.
Time to go see if they'll take pity on you for the night. You probably don't have much longer otherwise...
He is not getting owned though, okay!! Completely and utterly far from it! He's just... going easy on the cadet-not-cadet, okay!? That's all that's happening! Totally! Without a doubt!
...Is he laughing at him!? Really!?
Zack- pushes away harder than he expects when Cloud suddenly lets him go. Automatically, his hands are reaching up to fix his disheveled, greasy hair as he aims a halfhearted glare at the DUMB CHOCOBOHEAD. ESPECIALLY WHEN HIS OWN WORDS ARE BEING USED AGAINST HIM. THE LITTLE DWEEB.
But it's hard to hold that glare, wounded pride aside, when Cloud's laughing and teasing as much as he is. It's enough for his frown to soon relax into something more of a fond smile as he lifts his chin in a short nod. ] You should see your hair.
[ Yeah, that doesn't stop him from sassing back. He's going to make a mental note to unbury his comb from his pack later. For now, he glances back at the door before turning his attention to the other man. ] Looks like I can't go easy on you so much anymore.
[You're just jealous because he's actually better at something that you. It's okay to admit it, Zack. I mean, it must be quite a blow to your ego. First, he's better looking than you, and then come to find out he's not only stronger but also better at pong? How will your heart ever survive this devastating blow?
The laughter dies now quickly, moving to reclaim his place in the corner that he had been so rudely jolted from. It was odd to think how the dynamic between them had shifted. Cloud had always been the weaker of the two, always running to try and catch up to a dream that Zack had already achieved. Always younger, always shorter, always less capable. Maybe he was never meant to become a SOLDIER. He didn't have Zack's sense of pride and honor. Didn't have his fighting spirit or optimism.
But the span of time that separated them had changed so much. Cloud was taller now, older, stronger. They were on equal footing, and it was difficult to reconcile their present selves with the past.]
Maybe if you lost a little weight. [Sarcasm to the rescue! Saving his thoughts from becoming to serious and somber and completely ruining the mood entirely. Zack looked as if he could use a good laugh, not a long winded conversation about how time had changed them and how he didn't have to fight alone anymore.
But there was one question that kept nagging at him, no matter how hard he tried to ignore it:] So... why are you really awake?
[ You know that's the life he gave to make sure you lived, right.
Mmhm. Dat's right.
But he is totally not jealous, okay. Totally... not a big blow to his... yeah, okay, it is. But it's... not like he's going to admit to it, okay. So, good luck getting that out of him. He will destroy you at PacMan!!
Still, can't exactly hide the difference in dynamics here. It's weird. Seeing Cloud like this. Like the man he always thought Cloud had the potential to be- no, he's more than that. More than he could have ever imagined. So bizarre... but not in a bad way. Especially not considering the last time he'd seen him.
That doesn't stop the soft huff that rises out of him at that first comment. It's almost dark of him to say considering things. If anything, he could use to gain some weight. The muscle mass he's lost in the span of three months isn't exactly impossible to notice now. But all the same, it does get him to appreciate how Cloud doesn't prod further into that.
No, instead it's- oh. Zack holds his smile though it's a bit on the thinner side as he reaches to retrieve his tablet off the floor. ] The usual- keeping watch.
[ After you lose three people in two weeks, well. It becomes habit. ] Actually, I should probably get back down there. [ Never mind he's likely pulling overtime at this point. He should probably go wake up Kunsel before he gets mad, but. Well. ]
[Yeah, yeah, he knows. You never fail to pop up out of the Lifestream and remind him just when he's almost forgotten either.
There's more to it than that. He knows there's so clearly and obviously more to it than that - but he let's it go. One gentle pry was more than enough for the current moment, especially since it had yielded no results. Zack looks utterly exhausted, and the very last thing he wants - that he ever wants - is to add anymore stress or weight to those shoulders.
So instead he simply reaches for his tablet, pushes himself up from the shadows, dusts himself off and straightens his hair. It doesn't do much to add to his over all appearance - his hair is too far gone at this point to even hold it's natural shape - but it makes him feel better.]
I'll go. You should stay here and rest. [You know what the nicest thing about Cloud being all grown up is, Zack? You have someone else to keep watch.]
[ Someone's gotta keep on your back, Spike. If not him then- well. Apparently a lot of people. But. He's still the best at it!!
All the same, he's in the middle of dusting himself off and ready to head down when- he pauses at that. Pauses and looks back. And for a flicker, there's the young cadet. Just a flash of that hopeful young man before the memory's gone and the older, wiser Cloud stands there in front of him once more.
Zack shakes his head a little. Man, he must really be out of it tonight. Never mind the baggy eyes and the urge to go and lean on the closest wall. But then he nods just a little. ] If you're sure. [ Hey, he's not going to force watch on anyone here, okay. And it does feel a little strange. But... He trusts Cloud. Always did. ]
Though I think I'll pass on dark, dank, and gloomy. [ Oh, there's that teasing again followed up by a sly grin. He sleeps in the cuddle pile with the others, man. That's how you keep warm around here, don't you know? ]
[He's sorry he doesn't want to be part of your cuddle orgy, Zack.
Excuse you, who are you to insult his room of choice? Just because it's dark and damp and reminds you of something a vampire would love doesn't mean anything, okay. It just means he didn't want to wake anyone else up with his aggressive pong playing.
There's a small nod, meant as reassurance at the other's question. It wasn't as if he was used to getting a full, cushy eight hours sleep anyway. Keeping watch for a few hours would at least give him something to do, something that made him useful.]
You're missing out. [It wasn't so much the state of the room that had attracted him, but the quiet. Despite how much he hated being alone, old habits died hard. Even in a place such as this.]
[ Admit it, Cloud. You're just jealous of his cuddle orgy.
And yes, he's going to insult it. He knows a certain vampire in this town that he would punch in the face otherwise if not for the fact that it would be a waste of his time and get half the town up in arms against him. ...He's still really tempted to punch him anyway, but he digresses.
So, at the comment Cloud shoots his way, Zack just shrugs. ] I get plenty of alone time around here. I don't mind being with the others. [ He's also always been a much more sociable creature of habit, too.
He also prefers to be close to them to know they're still here and alive. But let's not go down that dark path, shall we. Still, he'll be falling into step alongside his friend before adding casually: ] You should join 'em sometime. [ Not that he minds coming around to see him separately, but. Mm. It feels better knowing they're all together.
Can rest easier knowing just about everyone's accounted for and warm and safe. ]
[Why should he be when he gets to cuddle with Tifa any time he wants?
Look, Zack, he promises to be a good boy and not wonder out alone near sun down and end up an icicle. But occasionally, from time to time, you are going to find him in some dark, dank corner playing whatever poorly constructed game he can currently find on his tablet. But he'll be sure to check in with you first, just so you know he's safe and accounted for. Can't have you losing anymore sleep than you already do.
A soft sigh, followed by a quick glance over his shoulder as he tries and fails to find the words to reassure his friend that he can take care of himself. That despite his current stellar record of bad decisions, he is not actually going to wonder off into the snowy abyss alone and freeze to death. That he's intelligent enough to know when he needs to find shelter and that he should always travel with a companion or group.]
Would you sleep better if I did? [Careful, Zack. His acceptable of the inclusion in the cuddle pile hinges on your answer.]
And for real, bro. He doesn't expect that's you'll go out and wander off to die alone again in the snow. He doesn't think you're dumb. But he... does know the dangers of Norfinbury too well by now. Enough that he even worries for Kunsel's well being these days, and he's a dependable SOLDIER Second. Enough that he even knows he, himself, is at risk if he makes a false move here. But a game in the dark in the house isn't that big of a deal.
You know. Just as long as he knows you made it into the house in the first place.
Okay, he might need to calm himself of this worry. It's just... difficult. And actually isn't even about whether or not Cloud can take care of himself. Because he knows that he can. Just... yeah.
Still, that question... might be earning a sudden, awkward head rubbing, one that looks more like he's ruffling his own hair. He looks away from his companion as he makes something of a small, futile hum. ] So, you noticed... huh. [ Guess it's been pretty obvious just how well he's been sleeping.
As in barely.
As in that might be why prefers to be up on watch. ]
[Zack, really, you should know better than to try and hide anything from him. He's the absolutely master at hiding things from people, okay. If you'e going to continue this behavior - with other people, of course, he won't have you using his own skills against him - you should probably get some tips.]
Kind of hard not to. [Add the fact that he cares about you to what's obvious and you actually have him somewhat concerned. You're not going to be of any use to anyone sleep deprived, Zack. And as much as he appreciates you dragging him around every where for that year, he's not exactly keen to repay the favor. Especially without the handy effects of mako.]
You know I can handle things while you sleep, right? [You just have to trust him.]
[ Mmhm. Sure. Just like back with Nibelheim and Tifa. Riiiight.
For the record, Cloud, you really suck at hiding things from people. Not that... he's much better these days. But alas. That's part of the wonder of snowhell and what it does to people.
It doesn't stop the soft grunt that comes from him at that first comment. But then he breathes out a slow sigh as he lets his hand drop. He's quiet -at least for a bit- but once they get to the stairs, he pauses, hands on his hips. There's a tilt nod of his head as he looks down them. ]
I know you can. And I trust you. [ There's a vague shrug. ] And it's not like you're on the other side of town when you aren't sleeping with the rest of us.
[ '...but I know you're here and alive.'
...Yeah, let's totally not talk about why he's not sleeping otherwise. ]
[Excuse you, he was young and dumb and hadn't honed his near perfect skills quite yet, okay. And for your information, he hid having a life ending disease just fine for months.
Until Marlene and Tifa happened. But we won't mention that.
There's a pause, his feet stopping somewhere between the second and third stare, body twisting so he can look back up at the other man. All at once whatever witty repartee that Zack might have enjoyed earlier is gone, replaced instead with somber understanding an seriousness.
It's odd that they should be having this conversation, that it should be Cloud reassuring Zack that he's not going anywhere, that he's definitely not going to do anything that even remotely carried the possibility of him dying again.
Unless someone he cared about was in danger. And then absolutely all bets were off and he made exactly zero promises for his own safety.]
Zack I'm... [I'm really sorry about whatever happened when I left. I'm sorry that I haven't been here for you the entire time that you've needed me but I'm here now.] You can't help your family if you can't even help yourself. [Who knew Marlene - or Barret's apparently - words would ever actually come in handy?] You took care of me, right? So let me do the same.
[ Yeah, whatever, he'll figure you out, regardless. ]
-Huh? [ Yeah, that gets... a blink out of him. ] Cloud, I just said...
[ But the rest of his words never come when the rest sinks in. Family. Can't take care of your family if you can't even help yourself. It's... fitting. More than he ever realized until that moment. He loves Cloud like a brother. Same as Kunsel... Jim... He cares a lot for Tifa and Zell, too, for that matter. Just... never placed that word as a thing until right then.
But- he shakes his head, blinking more than he should. ] I'm not saying don't help me. We need all the help we can get and I know you'll keep good watch on things. I never had anything against that.
[ Even if it feels strange still feeling this different air coming off of Cloud. Still, he pushes on with a vague gesture of his hand. ] Though if you're gonna argue about me helping myself, then shouldn't you be helping yourself, too? I mean you know you'd probably sleep better if you weren't in a corner freezing on your own, right?
You know, it's almost amusing to watch the realization wash over the other's face. As if he had never once even contemplating applying the word to their little rag-tag group until that very moment.
He could, if he wanted, remind Zack that you don't exactly drag someone's comatose body around with you for nearly a year and then die in order to protect them if you didn't consider them family. Nor did you lose sleep endlessly worrying about all of the dangers and ills that could come to those you cared about if that bond wasn't there. Perhaps it was because it was so similar to what he'd had with AVALANCHE that he was able to make the comparison.]
Funny how that happens. [One second you're just in it for the money and explosions and the next you're actually actively trying to save those around you.
Now now, Zack, we're not here to talk about his short comings. We're here to talk about yours. Gloved fingers raise, scratching at his forehead for a moment, as if he's actually considering the other's proposal.] I sleep better when I don't have to hear you snore.
[Seriously, something has to be done about all the noise pollution you people create while sleeping. It's kind of ridiculous.]
[ He dragged your scrawny ass all over Gaia for a year after four years in Hojo hell. He knows a few things, mm'kay.
Funny how it happens though. Yeah... No kidding, Cloud. Not that he's never seen him as a brother. But, you know, as far as the whole... all of them being his family thing, it's... Yeah, just sinking in now. DON'T YOU JUDGE HIM. HE'S BEEN A BIT BUSY, OKAY. ...At least he wasn't in it for the money and explosions in the first place. ..Can't deny he was in it for some self-gratification at first though.
REGARDLESS.
.....Damn it, why are you so stubborn. Thinks the equally stubborn one. Zack waves his hand as if that'll literally wave those words away. ] Cloud, I'm serious.
[ Come on. Don't be an asshole. As much as he's enjoying the back and forth, listen to him, will you? He huffs and looks off to the side again, rubbing at the base of his neck. ] 'sides, it's not like... [ ...but he isn't used to it anymore, is he. Two years...
It's... still hard to believe. It also makes it feel really awkward and weird in these moments when he realizes it all over again. And a small part of him ache knowing... ]
[True. You do form a special sort of bond when you've spent four years in tubes surrounded by green goo together.
You are easily the most ridiculous person he knows, Zack. And that's saying something considering the company he keeps.
Well, you did sort of tell make him promise to be your living legacy. You remember what you told him, right? Protect your honor as SOLDIER and never let go of your dreams. He just amended the agreement a bit to include stubbornness.
He had started down the stairs again, half expecting and fully hoping his words would bring the exchange to an end. Sleeping in a room filled with people he barely knew was far from ideal, even given their current situation. But he finds himself pausing, glancing over his shoulder at the other's hesitation. It wasn't as if he had any terrifyingly vivid memories from the time they had spent trying to escape from Shin-ra - there were small pieces, if he forced himself to think about it too long. A bright yellow took and equally bright blue eyes, a gentle voice asking him questions he couldn't answer - and then blood and rain and a weight so heavy being placed on his shoulders he wasn't sure how he would ever carry anything else.
The harsh reality was two years had only passed for one of them. Only one of their lives had continued to march forward. A thick wave of sickening guilt washes over him, along with the realization of just how big the differences between them were.]
You're right. I probably will sleep better. [It's a simple admission, accompanied by a quick glance over his shoulder and a small nod. And if he didn't he could at least stay until Zack fell asleep.]
[ It's a very beautiful way to bond, okay. There's nothing more crucial in building a relationship than genetic experimentation.
...And come on, Spike. It's the very ridiculousness of him that keeps you coming back for more. Or, you know. Would if he hadn't kicked the bucket back home. Yeah, about that.... At least Cloud seems to have lived up to that whole legacy spiel. Yes, his damned stubbornness included. Which is fine when it's him, but when it's Spike... Man, is he that much of a pain, himself? He's sure something else. Though speaking of, well. Something else.
The something else being the way Cloud pauses on the steps again and looks back and Zack stiffens at that look, even if he's only seeing it out of the corner of his eye. Maybe he'd gone too far. Maybe he should just drop it. Cloud's okay. Cloud's back. And apparently more capable than ever.
He's being- surprised.
Surprise, surprise. Zack slowly... shakes his head out of his momentary daze before he's starting after the other man. It doesn't take long before he's caught up to him and clapping a hand on his shoulder. His smile isn't quite meeting his eyes, but still he offers: ] Then once your watch is done, come join us. Okay?
[ No promises that he'll actually fall asleep, even with Cloud there. But... he'll at least be a bit more at peace feeling him there.
[Especially when it leaves one of you comatose and completely unable to care for themselves/
Hate to break it to you Zack, but you're even more of a pain. So much of a pain, in fact, that he's actually thankful he has Tifa and Kunsel to help deal with you. That's a lot of pain and suffering and stubbornness for one person.]
Yeah. [And he would. He would take his turn at keeping watch and then he would join the other's. He couldn't exactly promise that he would actually sleep - it was more than likely that he would find a comfortable corner and go back to his new found pong addiction.] Can't keep having you walk around looking like that.
[You may have won the emotion argument, Zack, but he is definitely going to win the sass war.]
That sass is gonna earn a light shove from the SOLDIER though along with a disgruntled huff. ] Like you can talk. [ But despite the sass back, there's a certain touch of honesty to those words. Come on, Spike. He's not stupid. He's seen your own reckless, stupid habits starting to hint at the beginnings of taking their own tolls on you. Nothing bad yet, but...
They aren't invisible necessarily either. He's got more than enough experience of his own with that.
Win the sass war, you might. Doesn't mean he's not going to give you shit anyway. Still, once they hit the bottom of the steps, that's where Zack will give pause. The entrance is one way. The room where everyone is huddled away? The other way.
But again- he trusts Cloud. So, in the end, he gives him a pat on the back and tilts his head up in a light nod. ]
You know the deal. [ Don't stay up all night on watch now. ]
[Being proficient at taking care of comatose friends does look really good on a resume.
There is very likely a joke to made here about how Zack should be glad and downright thankful that he can even talk at all, considering, you know, the year of complete and utter mako-poisoned induced silence. He has a lot to make up for.
Chances were, however unfortunate, that he would never stop trying to hide the combined effects of his own questionable decision making and that being in a place such and Norfinbury brought. He was used to operating at a certain level of sleep deprivation - it wouldn't be too hard to stretch it just a little bit further. Despite the way the dark circles forming under his eyes and the way his skin grew even paler gave him away. Denial was there for a reason, and he was more than ready and willing to make full use of it.]
Mm. [Another soft sound accompanied by a small nod of his head. It was extremely possible, although he wasn't about to actually admit it, that he would do exactly that. Stay up all night on watch, simply so that no one else would have to. It would be silly to go and wake someone else to do what he already was.]
Goodnight, Zack. [There's a smile there, one that actually reaches his eyes, even as he returns the gesture, offering the lightest of taps against the other's shoulder with his fist. He fully expects you to actually sleep, although he highly doubts you actually will.]
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snowblindmemes2016-01-16 05:18 pm
no subject
He is not getting owned though, okay!! Completely and utterly far from it! He's just... going easy on the cadet-not-cadet, okay!? That's all that's happening! Totally! Without a doubt!
...Is he laughing at him!? Really!?
Zack- pushes away harder than he expects when Cloud suddenly lets him go. Automatically, his hands are reaching up to fix his disheveled, greasy hair as he aims a halfhearted glare at the DUMB CHOCOBOHEAD. ESPECIALLY WHEN HIS OWN WORDS ARE BEING USED AGAINST HIM. THE LITTLE DWEEB.
But it's hard to hold that glare, wounded pride aside, when Cloud's laughing and teasing as much as he is. It's enough for his frown to soon relax into something more of a fond smile as he lifts his chin in a short nod. ] You should see your hair.
[ Yeah, that doesn't stop him from sassing back. He's going to make a mental note to unbury his comb from his pack later. For now, he glances back at the door before turning his attention to the other man. ] Looks like I can't go easy on you so much anymore.
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HE'S SORRY.
YOU MEAN THE SWORD YOU STOLE FROM YOUR MENTOR THAT HE THEN STOLE FROM YOU?
YEAH. ABOUT THAT.
YOU DIDN'T EXACTLY LEAVE CARE INSTRUCTIONS SO.
HE'S SORRY NOT SORRY.
HAVE A NICE LIFE.
OH WAIT.]
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The laughter dies now quickly, moving to reclaim his place in the corner that he had been so rudely jolted from. It was odd to think how the dynamic between them had shifted. Cloud had always been the weaker of the two, always running to try and catch up to a dream that Zack had already achieved. Always younger, always shorter, always less capable. Maybe he was never meant to become a SOLDIER. He didn't have Zack's sense of pride and honor. Didn't have his fighting spirit or optimism.
But the span of time that separated them had changed so much. Cloud was taller now, older, stronger. They were on equal footing, and it was difficult to reconcile their present selves with the past.]
Maybe if you lost a little weight. [Sarcasm to the rescue! Saving his thoughts from becoming to serious and somber and completely ruining the mood entirely. Zack looked as if he could use a good laugh, not a long winded conversation about how time had changed them and how he didn't have to fight alone anymore.
But there was one question that kept nagging at him, no matter how hard he tried to ignore it:] So... why are you really awake?
no subject
Mmhm. Dat's right.
But he is totally not jealous, okay. Totally... not a big blow to his... yeah, okay, it is. But it's... not like he's going to admit to it, okay. So, good luck getting that out of him.
He will destroy you at PacMan!!Still, can't exactly hide the difference in dynamics here. It's weird. Seeing Cloud like this. Like the man he always thought Cloud had the potential to be- no, he's more than that. More than he could have ever imagined. So bizarre... but not in a bad way. Especially not considering the last time he'd seen him.
That doesn't stop the soft huff that rises out of him at that first comment. It's almost dark of him to say considering things. If anything, he could use to gain some weight. The muscle mass he's lost in the span of three months isn't exactly impossible to notice now. But all the same, it does get him to appreciate how Cloud doesn't prod further into that.
No, instead it's- oh. Zack holds his smile though it's a bit on the thinner side as he reaches to retrieve his tablet off the floor. ] The usual- keeping watch.
[ After you lose three people in two weeks, well. It becomes habit. ] Actually, I should probably get back down there. [ Never mind he's likely pulling overtime at this point. He should probably go wake up Kunsel before he gets mad, but. Well. ]
no subject
There's more to it than that. He knows there's so clearly and obviously more to it than that - but he let's it go. One gentle pry was more than enough for the current moment, especially since it had yielded no results. Zack looks utterly exhausted, and the very last thing he wants - that he ever wants - is to add anymore stress or weight to those shoulders.
So instead he simply reaches for his tablet, pushes himself up from the shadows, dusts himself off and straightens his hair. It doesn't do much to add to his over all appearance - his hair is too far gone at this point to even hold it's natural shape - but it makes him feel better.]
I'll go. You should stay here and rest. [You know what the nicest thing about Cloud being all grown up is, Zack? You have someone else to keep watch.]
no subject
All the same, he's in the middle of dusting himself off and ready to head down when- he pauses at that. Pauses and looks back. And for a flicker, there's the young cadet. Just a flash of that hopeful young man before the memory's gone and the older, wiser Cloud stands there in front of him once more.
Zack shakes his head a little. Man, he must really be out of it tonight. Never mind the baggy eyes and the urge to go and lean on the closest wall. But then he nods just a little. ] If you're sure. [ Hey, he's not going to force watch on anyone here, okay. And it does feel a little strange. But... He trusts Cloud. Always did. ]
Though I think I'll pass on dark, dank, and gloomy. [ Oh, there's that teasing again followed up by a sly grin. He sleeps in the cuddle pile with the others, man. That's how you keep warm around here, don't you know? ]
no subject
Excuse you, who are you to insult his room of choice? Just because it's dark and damp and reminds you of something a vampire would love doesn't mean anything, okay. It just means he didn't want to wake anyone else up with his aggressive pong playing.
There's a small nod, meant as reassurance at the other's question. It wasn't as if he was used to getting a full, cushy eight hours sleep anyway. Keeping watch for a few hours would at least give him something to do, something that made him useful.]
You're missing out. [It wasn't so much the state of the room that had attracted him, but the quiet. Despite how much he hated being alone, old habits died hard. Even in a place such as this.]
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And yes, he's going to insult it. He knows a certain vampire in this town that he would punch in the face otherwise if not for the fact that it would be a waste of his time and get half the town up in arms against him. ...He's still really tempted to punch him anyway, but he digresses.
So, at the comment Cloud shoots his way, Zack just shrugs. ] I get plenty of alone time around here. I don't mind being with the others. [ He's also always been a much more sociable creature of habit, too.
He also prefers to be close to them to know they're still here and alive. But let's not go down that dark path, shall we. Still, he'll be falling into step alongside his friend before adding casually: ] You should join 'em sometime. [ Not that he minds coming around to see him separately, but. Mm. It feels better knowing they're all together.
Can rest easier knowing just about everyone's accounted for and warm and safe. ]
no subject
Look, Zack, he promises to be a good boy and not wonder out alone near sun down and end up an icicle. But occasionally, from time to time, you are going to find him in some dark, dank corner playing whatever poorly constructed game he can currently find on his tablet. But he'll be sure to check in with you first, just so you know he's safe and accounted for. Can't have you losing anymore sleep than you already do.
A soft sigh, followed by a quick glance over his shoulder as he tries and fails to find the words to reassure his friend that he can take care of himself. That despite his current stellar record of bad decisions, he is not actually going to wonder off into the snowy abyss alone and freeze to death. That he's intelligent enough to know when he needs to find shelter and that he should always travel with a companion or group.]
Would you sleep better if I did? [Careful, Zack. His acceptable of the inclusion in the cuddle pile hinges on your answer.]
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And for real, bro. He doesn't expect that's you'll go out and wander off to die alone again in the snow. He doesn't think you're dumb. But he... does know the dangers of Norfinbury too well by now. Enough that he even worries for Kunsel's well being these days, and he's a dependable SOLDIER Second. Enough that he even knows he, himself, is at risk if he makes a false move here. But a game in the dark in the house isn't that big of a deal.
You know. Just as long as he knows you made it into the house in the first place.
Okay, he might need to calm himself of this worry. It's just... difficult. And actually isn't even about whether or not Cloud can take care of himself. Because he knows that he can. Just... yeah.
Still, that question... might be earning a sudden, awkward head rubbing, one that looks more like he's ruffling his own hair. He looks away from his companion as he makes something of a small, futile hum. ] So, you noticed... huh. [ Guess it's been pretty obvious just how well he's been sleeping.
As in barely.
As in that might be why prefers to be up on watch. ]
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Kind of hard not to. [Add the fact that he cares about you to what's obvious and you actually have him somewhat concerned. You're not going to be of any use to anyone sleep deprived, Zack. And as much as he appreciates you dragging him around every where for that year, he's not exactly keen to repay the favor. Especially without the handy effects of mako.]
You know I can handle things while you sleep, right? [You just have to trust him.]
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For the record, Cloud, you really suck at hiding things from people. Not that... he's much better these days. But alas. That's part of the wonder of snowhell and what it does to people.
It doesn't stop the soft grunt that comes from him at that first comment. But then he breathes out a slow sigh as he lets his hand drop. He's quiet -at least for a bit- but once they get to the stairs, he pauses, hands on his hips. There's a tilt nod of his head as he looks down them. ]
I know you can. And I trust you. [ There's a vague shrug. ] And it's not like you're on the other side of town when you aren't sleeping with the rest of us.
[ '...but I know you're here and alive.'
...Yeah, let's totally not talk about why he's not sleeping otherwise. ]
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Until Marlene and Tifa happened. But we won't mention that.
There's a pause, his feet stopping somewhere between the second and third stare, body twisting so he can look back up at the other man. All at once whatever witty repartee that Zack might have enjoyed earlier is gone, replaced instead with somber understanding an seriousness.
It's odd that they should be having this conversation, that it should be Cloud reassuring Zack that he's not going anywhere, that he's definitely not going to do anything that even remotely carried the possibility of him dying again.
Unless someone he cared about was in danger. And then absolutely all bets were off and he made exactly zero promises for his own safety.]
Zack I'm... [I'm really sorry about whatever happened when I left. I'm sorry that I haven't been here for you the entire time that you've needed me but I'm here now.] You can't help your family if you can't even help yourself. [Who knew Marlene - or Barret's apparently - words would ever actually come in handy?] You took care of me, right? So let me do the same.
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Yeah, whatever, he'll figure you out, regardless.]-Huh? [ Yeah, that gets... a blink out of him. ] Cloud, I just said...
[ But the rest of his words never come when the rest sinks in. Family. Can't take care of your family if you can't even help yourself. It's... fitting. More than he ever realized until that moment. He loves Cloud like a brother. Same as Kunsel... Jim... He cares a lot for Tifa and Zell, too, for that matter. Just... never placed that word as a thing until right then.
But- he shakes his head, blinking more than he should. ] I'm not saying don't help me. We need all the help we can get and I know you'll keep good watch on things. I never had anything against that.
[ Even if it feels strange still feeling this different air coming off of Cloud. Still, he pushes on with a vague gesture of his hand. ] Though if you're gonna argue about me helping myself, then shouldn't you be helping yourself, too? I mean you know you'd probably sleep better if you weren't in a corner freezing on your own, right?
[ He might sleep better, too. ]
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You think you know him so well, don't you?You know, it's almost amusing to watch the realization wash over the other's face. As if he had never once even contemplating applying the word to their little rag-tag group until that very moment.
He could, if he wanted, remind Zack that you don't exactly drag someone's comatose body around with you for nearly a year and then die in order to protect them if you didn't consider them family. Nor did you lose sleep endlessly worrying about all of the dangers and ills that could come to those you cared about if that bond wasn't there. Perhaps it was because it was so similar to what he'd had with AVALANCHE that he was able to make the comparison.]
Funny how that happens. [One second you're just in it for the money and explosions and the next you're actually actively trying to save those around you.
Now now, Zack, we're not here to talk about his short comings. We're here to talk about yours. Gloved fingers raise, scratching at his forehead for a moment, as if he's actually considering the other's proposal.] I sleep better when I don't have to hear you snore.
[Seriously, something has to be done about all the noise pollution you people create while sleeping. It's kind of ridiculous.]
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He dragged your scrawny ass all over Gaia for a year after four years in Hojo hell. He knows a few things, mm'kay.Funny how it happens though. Yeah... No kidding, Cloud. Not that he's never seen him as a brother. But, you know, as far as the whole... all of them being his family thing, it's... Yeah, just sinking in now. DON'T YOU JUDGE HIM. HE'S BEEN A BIT BUSY, OKAY. ...At least he wasn't in it for the money and explosions in the first place. ..Can't deny he was in it for some self-gratification at first though.
REGARDLESS.
.....Damn it, why are you so stubborn. Thinks the equally stubborn one. Zack waves his hand as if that'll literally wave those words away. ] Cloud, I'm serious.
[ Come on. Don't be an asshole. As much as he's enjoying the back and forth, listen to him, will you? He huffs and looks off to the side again, rubbing at the base of his neck. ] 'sides, it's not like... [ ...but he isn't used to it anymore, is he. Two years...
It's... still hard to believe. It also makes it feel really awkward and weird in these moments when he realizes it all over again. And a small part of him ache knowing... ]
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True. You do form a special sort of bond when you've spent four years in tubes surrounded by green goo together.You are easily the most ridiculous person he knows, Zack. And that's saying something considering the company he keeps.
Well, you did sort of tell make him promise to be your living legacy. You remember what you told him, right? Protect your honor as SOLDIER and never let go of your dreams. He just amended the agreement a bit to include stubbornness.
He had started down the stairs again, half expecting and fully hoping his words would bring the exchange to an end. Sleeping in a room filled with people he barely knew was far from ideal, even given their current situation. But he finds himself pausing, glancing over his shoulder at the other's hesitation. It wasn't as if he had any terrifyingly vivid memories from the time they had spent trying to escape from Shin-ra - there were small pieces, if he forced himself to think about it too long. A bright yellow took and equally bright blue eyes, a gentle voice asking him questions he couldn't answer - and then blood and rain and a weight so heavy being placed on his shoulders he wasn't sure how he would ever carry anything else.
The harsh reality was two years had only passed for one of them. Only one of their lives had continued to march forward. A thick wave of sickening guilt washes over him, along with the realization of just how big the differences between them were.]
You're right. I probably will sleep better. [It's a simple admission, accompanied by a quick glance over his shoulder and a small nod. And if he didn't he could at least stay until Zack fell asleep.]
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It's a very beautiful way to bond, okay. There's nothing more crucial in building a relationship than genetic experimentation....And come on, Spike. It's the very ridiculousness of him that keeps you coming back for more. Or, you know. Would if he hadn't kicked the bucket back home. Yeah, about that.... At least Cloud seems to have lived up to that whole legacy spiel. Yes, his damned stubbornness included. Which is fine when it's him, but when it's Spike... Man, is he that much of a pain, himself? He's sure something else. Though speaking of, well. Something else.
The something else being the way Cloud pauses on the steps again and looks back and Zack stiffens at that look, even if he's only seeing it out of the corner of his eye. Maybe he'd gone too far. Maybe he should just drop it. Cloud's okay. Cloud's back. And apparently more capable than ever.
He's being- surprised.
Surprise, surprise. Zack slowly... shakes his head out of his momentary daze before he's starting after the other man. It doesn't take long before he's caught up to him and clapping a hand on his shoulder. His smile isn't quite meeting his eyes, but still he offers: ] Then once your watch is done, come join us. Okay?
[ No promises that he'll actually fall asleep, even with Cloud there. But... he'll at least be a bit more at peace feeling him there.
And maybe Cloud will, too. ]
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Especially when it leaves one of you comatose and completely unable to care for themselves/Hate to break it to you Zack, but you're even more of a pain. So much of a pain, in fact, that he's actually thankful he has Tifa and Kunsel to help deal with you. That's a lot of pain and suffering and stubbornness for one person.]
Yeah. [And he would. He would take his turn at keeping watch and then he would join the other's. He couldn't exactly promise that he would actually sleep - it was more than likely that he would find a comfortable corner and go back to his new found pong addiction.] Can't keep having you walk around looking like that.
[You may have won the emotion argument, Zack, but he is definitely going to win the sass war.]
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At least Zack's good at the aftercare.That sass is gonna earn a light shove from the SOLDIER though along with a disgruntled huff. ] Like you can talk. [ But despite the sass back, there's a certain touch of honesty to those words. Come on, Spike. He's not stupid. He's seen your own reckless, stupid habits starting to hint at the beginnings of taking their own tolls on you. Nothing bad yet, but...
They aren't invisible necessarily either. He's got more than enough experience of his own with that.
Win the sass war, you might. Doesn't mean he's not going to give you shit anyway. Still, once they hit the bottom of the steps, that's where Zack will give pause. The entrance is one way. The room where everyone is huddled away? The other way.
But again- he trusts Cloud. So, in the end, he gives him a pat on the back and tilts his head up in a light nod. ]
You know the deal. [ Don't stay up all night on watch now. ]
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Being proficient at taking care of comatose friends does look really good on a resume.There is very likely a joke to made here about how Zack should be glad and downright thankful that he can even talk at all, considering, you know, the year of complete and utter mako-poisoned induced silence. He has a lot to make up for.
Chances were, however unfortunate, that he would never stop trying to hide the combined effects of his own questionable decision making and that being in a place such and Norfinbury brought. He was used to operating at a certain level of sleep deprivation - it wouldn't be too hard to stretch it just a little bit further. Despite the way the dark circles forming under his eyes and the way his skin grew even paler gave him away. Denial was there for a reason, and he was more than ready and willing to make full use of it.]
Mm. [Another soft sound accompanied by a small nod of his head. It was extremely possible, although he wasn't about to actually admit it, that he would do exactly that. Stay up all night on watch, simply so that no one else would have to. It would be silly to go and wake someone else to do what he already was.]
Goodnight, Zack. [There's a smile there, one that actually reaches his eyes, even as he returns the gesture, offering the lightest of taps against the other's shoulder with his fist. He fully expects you to actually sleep, although he highly doubts you actually will.]