[ And while Cloud's scouted this place out, he's also intending to play most of this getaway loosely with her too. A plan is a plan, but what's a vacation without some surprises? Entering the lobby, he briefly peers around before strolling his way up to the front desk. Being as late as it is, the young lady working this shift is seemingly minding her own business, skimming through a rather thick book. It's so quiet here that most that can be heard is the sound of her turning the page.
Were they that quiet coming in?? ]
... [ He turns to Weiss, cocking an eyebrow. Should they just...ring the bell? Say something? ] ...
[ ... page turn. ]
Hi?
[ The lady behind the desk stops, peering up from the top of her glasses. Then it registers with her, blinking rapidly as she almost immediately shoots upright.
"Oh!! Please forgive me, Iii um, I didn't hear you come in and..." ]
Got a reservation for two. Cloud Strife.
[ Cloud ain't gonna give her a hard time. But he ain't about to coddle her for not paying attention either. Clearing her throat, the lady composes herself, pushing up the bridge of her glasses before pulling out another book of reservations.
"Strife... Strife... Ah! Yes." She spares a glance to the white-haired huntress, just to make sure. "Excellent! I'll have your room keys prepared right away."
Excusing herself, she disappears into the back. A minute later, she's returned with what appears to be a small envelope and a brochure. All business and smiles, she's better composed than she had been earlier when the two surprised her. She hands the envelope and brochure to Cloud while adding,
"And here you are." ]
Thanks.
[ Their room number is on the outside of the envelope. Opening it up, out comes a pair of keys. ]
[ "We hope you enjoy your stay, Mr. Strife." She turns to Weiss and nods, "Mrs. Strife." ]
Weiss' brain actually stops working thanks to the receptionist, so please forgive her for what's to come. ]
We aren't married yet— [ WAIT. THAT'S NOT WHAT SHE MEANS, EITHER. Her face is already red but now the colour runs down her neck and her hands begin to feel warm, too. ] I— no!
[ Oh, did the girl make a mistake, then? She seems confused, and without fully understanding the situation, just assumed! Before she can apologise, though, the flustered Huntress seems scary! Especially when: ]
Shut up!
[ The girl hasn't even said anything (yet)! She was going to apologise! But Weiss is equally as confused and embarrassed right now that she's just speaking without thinking. What is she even supposed to think at a time like this?! Cloud's hand is getting squeezed. Hard. ]
Cloud!
[ PLEASE HELP SHE DOESN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO ADJADJAFJAJF ]
[ Just as Cloud's prepared to raise his hand to dismiss the claim, ]
We're-
[ "We aren't married yet—" ]
?!! [ He whips his head to Weiss, eyes wide and face redder. ] Yet??
[ She's not even saying at him, but Cloud flinches by proxy when she tells the girl to shut up. Comically, he feels her hand squeezing his super hard. Normally it wouldn't hurt, but. Right now Cloud's defenses are down in more ways than one right now. Instead, he just stammers over his own breath, eyes darting between his girlfriend and the receptionist who, surprisingly now that she's gotten time to compose herself? Is staying rather calm despite the way the white-haired Schnee is flipping out. ]
This isn't-
[ "Cloud!" ]
What?
[ WHAT DO? WELL. He's prepared to start dragging Weiss away so they can cool their jets together, but before he can do that? The receptionist intervenes one last time, only looking mildly sheepish for her assumption. Sheesh. She's usually really good at reading people. But their business is taken care of, and it's been agreed upon that Cloud will pay upon checking out. So on that note?
"Should you need anything else, please let us know. I'll leave you and your fiancé to it then." ]
Wha-
[ THAT'S NOT RIGHT EITHER. OKAY. THAT DOES IT. HE NODS IN THANKS AND TUGS WEISS AWAY RATHER HASTILY. ]
[ It's not like they haven't talked about the idea of marriage before, and Weiss has been very honest about how she feels about it all. She wants to follow him where he goes once her responsibilities in Remnant have been taken care of. At the end of it all, she wants to be with him. And it's something she's never thought about growing up, but... she can see herself coming home after a long day's work to a home that she and Cloud share. It's nothing different from how they are now, but the love she feels for him makes her think these things. About how she wants to wear a lovely gown and walk down an aisle, or even the cheesy image of him getting down on one knee... it just fills her with so much happiness.
Someone else pointing it out is embarrassing, though! Even though they experienced something similar before, a stranger assuming as much was just—
Her heart is racing. She's so nervous now and she doesn't know if they should even talk about it or not! But as they walk away from the reception desk, down the hall to where their room possibly is, she can't help but wonder what Cloud is thinking. At a time like this, he would normally be the one to calm her down, but he seems just as flustered, too. ]
I- [ He'll probably feel her slowing down some, once they're away from the lobby. The walls in this resort should be thick thay no one else should be able to hear them. ] I hope I didn't say the wrong thing.
[ Because if that's why he doesn't know what to say or what to do, then... maybe she misunderstood. Those times they would talk about how they feel for the other, she always got the impression that they were on the same page. But deep down, a future with Cloud is what she really wants after everything is over. Perhaps she's a little eager being so open about it, but she's also never chased after love before. And with him being her first love, there's nothing to base anything off of. She just knows to give it her all, as how she does with everything else. ]
[ The truth of the matter was that he felt very similarly to his girlfriend about all this. Whether their lives end in living on Gaia, Remnant, or even an entirely new world altogether if whatever powers above ordain... Cloud will continue to fight tooth and nail for their freedom and to choose how they want to spend the rest of their lives, wherever and with whoever. But that wasn't going to stop them from going through the motions as a couple still. Especially when it came to getting flustered over being called out on something so bold as...
Gulp.
Marriage. ]
Huh?
[ Said something wrong? Cloud can't help the arch of his brows lifting with sympathy. Now did he do something wrong by dragging her out of there earlier? True, Weiss did flip out earlier. But he knows her. He knows that this is just practically a kneejerk reaction from her by this point. It took him a long time to open up and grow out of his "Not interested" phase. ...and even that hasn't been buried entirely. Sighing, his shoulders droop as he squeezes her hand again, this time more reassuring than "dragging her along" than before as he offers a timid smile. ]
Nah. You didn't. That just...caught me off guard too, is all.
[ They keep walking, this time at a much more leisurely pace as they're luckily going the right direction. He's familiar with this place to an extent anyway, having scouted it out during his first time arriving here. ]
Ask me if we're dating and I wouldn't bat an eye. But... [ Oh god. His face is getting more and more red, despite the fact the light smile hasn't left his face yet. ] ... Hahahah...
"Mrs. Strife", huh...
[ He sounds so thoughtful as he says it. The way they reacted was equal parts embarrassing and funny in hindsight. ]
[ The relief she feels is immense. It was as if her entire life was flashing before her very eyes and he saved her at the very last minute. She laughs shakily, and she would let out a very loud "phew" if it was more her character to do so. Instead, her eyes seem to brighten as she follows him and listens.
Eventually, she matches his pace, by his side now instead of behind him. Her expression still carries some uncertainty, but she also sounds more decided about other things. ]
Well... I don't know if I want to lose my family name. [ While she may have been disinherited, she's still proud to be a Schnee. The accomplishments of her grandfather are things she won't ever throw away. ] "Mrs. Strife-Schnee"?
[ YES SHE'S VERY SETTLED WITH THIS ORDER OF NAMES, THANK YOU. ]
Well, Mrs. Strife-Schn— [ Okay. Cloud can't finish that because he's trying not to laugh again. And sooner or later the proverbial high from earlier was going to wear off and he's gonna be thinking about this a lot later anddfaksjh— ]
Just down the hall from the springs. We're almost there.
[ Which meant that if they wanted to, they can take a dip anytime they so pleased! A shower or bath was nice, but soaking his aching muscles after all the hard training he tends to do was sounding very appealing in the near future. ]
[ They can laugh together. Weiss won't deny it if it's just the two of them, but if it's a future with Cloud, then it's a future she wants. Her cheeks are so red, but she's still smiling, anyway. (She doesn't like that receptionist, though...) ]
Hopefully the people here aren't noisy.
[ If they're close to the springs, then that means lots of people will be passing by their room! ]
I'll need to find a nice place to go to for your birthday.
[ Where they'd go for his birthday and all. Cloud would be turning 26, having spent two of his birthdays in Prismatica before waking up here. Before coming to that planet, he didn't put much stake into the day. Then, it was usually up to Tifa and the kids to surprise him and make him stay put long enough. But he never didn't enjoy it. Cloud was just...still coming around. Jump ahead a good year or so? And how he received his own party on Prismatica was something amazing if you knew him from the past. ]
Wonder if there'll be new lands to uncover for the King. Like connecting with Lystellus or Amegahara...
[ They talked about going places! And right now, the pickings were slim if they wanted to be safe. ]
It's a few months from now. We'll see. But we'll do anything you want to do.
[ Oh, she said "we". Assuming he would include her in his plans and all! If he wants to do things on his own, too, then of course, she'd give him the time and space. But Weiss just thinks by default they'll spend the day together. ]
... there may or may not be any surprises.
[ Because she's determined to sweep him off his feet. It's just a customary Weiss thing at this point. ]
[ It never crossed his mind for a second that he'd want to spent his birthday without her. In truths? Cloud now wants to experience these days with everyone that he cares about if he can. But precious little moments like this? These are the ones that are reserved for a certain someone at his side. ]
[ It won't be anything extreme! But she does want to surprise him again. In a good way! She wants him to enjoy every day of his life, whether he's with her or not. After all he's done for her and the happiness he's given her, it's only fair to return the favour, right?
The hall eventually shifts into a more scenic view as they reach the spring area. The rooms in this area are a little bigger than the other rooms they've passed through. Different packages and all! Theirs should have a comfortable-sized bed with a small foyer, a hallway with a door to the bathroom to the side, and a decently sized closet should they want to put their things in there. The windows in the bedroom are glass sliding doors that lead to a cosy private garden of sorts, as well as their own mini-spring. Fortunately for them, the moon should be shining bright the next couple of days. The spring's restorative properties should have a great effect!
The view outside these rooms don't exactly contain the red spring— wouldn't wanna watch everyone bathe, you know? But it does show a nice and quaint garden where people can relax and walk around in, take pictures, meditate. There's a wooden door at the end of the flowery path that leads to the entrance to the spring. And when they pass by this place, Weiss tugs on Cloud's hand to tell him to stop for a bit. They can walk around later, but she's getting excited! ]
[ The last time he was here (upon arrival), he didn't take enough time to sightsee properly. In truth, he was scouting the area to assess it for the future. Paying less mind to the quaint little garden and flourishing paths that would soon come now that it was Spring, now that he's been here a few months, he's committed to this world just as Weiss has. Which meant that as they ventured down the hall, expanding into a more scenic path as they pass the garden, the distant heavy scent of steam reaching his senses, it feels like the first time for him too.
Their room is as he'd hoped it would be. A little more extravagant but not quite as jaw-dropping as their snowy escape to Lystellus before. To him, they'd only really be using this room to get comfortable and rest up. Among other things. But that's not on his mind immediately. Stopping when he feels her tugging on his hand, he blinks when she asks for a quick picture.
They've had a couple here to commemorate the little moments, but it's been harder to find "precious" memories like they'd created on Prismatica. This felt like one of the first big escapes for them in a long while. So hearing her ask for a photo again... ]
Sure thing, birthday girl.
[ She can have anything and everything she wants of him. Cloud pulls out his mobile device, wiping the camera lens just in case before realizing that oh- they don't have anyone to take a picture of them. They can just take a selfie! But then, ]
Hang on a sec.
[ Brow furrowing only for a second, he loosens his grip on his phone, only to let go entirely as it begins floating upright in front of him. Slowly, staying upright and properly aimed at them, Cloud begins lowering his hand. 'Kay. Steady. Easy. Sloooowly...... ]
...
[ Cloud's hand drops to his side, leaving the phone to float a good distance in front of them, ready to take their picture. He can't ask the Chocobo Chick to take the shot. And...does the Arma Gigas even know how to use one of these things? Regardless, it took a little concentration in the beginning, but now using his own Kinetic magic, he's keeping the phone afloat and steady with his mind. It's a little harder to do without using his hands as a means to 'conduct'. But. ]
On three?
[ So strike a pose! He'll tap to get the photo when she's ready. And pray he doesn't screw up and drop it. dafkjh ]
[ But she's laughing, anyway. She really likes being given special treatment! And she's told him many times that he spoils her too much but she adores it, anyway. Just knowing that Cloud wouldn't do these things or say these things with just about anyone makes her feel really good about herself. ]
Oh, that's so clever.
[ akdhakd HER BOYFRIEND IS A GENIUS!! Setting her stuff down on a nearby bench, she proceeds to wrap her arms around one of his as she leans against it, smiling at the camera with such excitement and glee. ]
[ When she throws her arms around him, he doesn't look down at her the entire time. Only because he's afraid if he loses focus on the phone, it's just gonna drop out of the air. Frankly? He doesn't care if it breaks. It's "borrowed" at this point as far as he's concerned. But still! The less problems they have, the better. Smiling for the camera as he puts an arm around her shoulders, he gets thrown off when she suddenly shouts out "Three!" ]
Wait three-?
[ Subconsciously, the camera flashes midair, taking the shot as he blinks rapidly at the light. It doesn't blind him- he just got caught off guard. But she didn't mess anything up either. Retrieving the phone, he can relax again now that he's not focusing on pushing buttons with his mind. Showing her the shot with his free hand. It's... ]
... .... Oops.
[ They're in the bottom half of the shot practically. Like, chest to head and that's it and the rest is over them. Cloud didn't have the camera angled on them right. It was different when the devices back on Prismatica could focus on them and float for shots... Guess these weren't so advanced. ]
Here. I'll just...
[ Do a regular selfie instead. He tried being cool. ]
[ It's a picture that Cloud took— of course she loves it! But she won't say no to him taking more pictures. Maybe they can do it elsewhere, though. ]
Mm, we can go around later and take pictures again. Oh, and over dinner!
[ They can eat at the restaurant, or they can order room service. Whichever's fine by her, but she does still want a picture! ]
We lost our pictures in Lunatia, but at least we still have our memories.
[ That's the most important bit. She says it so easily, but if she ever lost her memories of her time in Lunatia, she wouldn't be the same. The things that she held important before are still very important now, but everything she's experienced, who she's met and fallen in love with... nothing can compare. No experience in Remnant or in all the other worlds out there can compare. This—what she has now—is most important. ]
[ Cloud was prepared to pull her in by the waist and get the phone aimed up high this time! But instead, he does decide to slip it back into his pocket for now. He'll give it a good look with her later. It's not like they weren't entirely out of the shot or anything. Then she reflects back on Lunatia with him. And while he's still happy, there's a slight sense of morose in his gaze as he briefly sets his eyes onto the night sky ahead of them. Even out here, the stars are shimmering with beauty...
And somewhere out there...maybe, just maybe... ]
Yeah...
[ Prismatica, Remnant, Gaia...they were out there. And it was their job to make sure everyone could get back to where they belong. Even if Cloud feels like he's already found where he belongs- side by side with a certain white-haired girl, wherever their journey may take them. His smile returns as he looks back to Weiss at his side. ]
Gonna have an album's worth by the time we're done.
[ Hah... she's only kidding! Picking her stuff back up, she's once again ready to head to their room. Slowly but surely, her worries about this trip are getting forgotten. They may have had an embarrassing start, too, but it's turning around! ]
Send me the picture once we're in our room, too. I want to look at it again.
[ Kidding or not, if there's one thing he wants to bring back with them when their journey is over, it's these memories in one form or another. Something to reflect back on and reminisce over. Something to share with their family and friends. And...if the future they saw together is anything like reality down the road, one day...if they really did have a kid...
It still makes him blush to think about. But at the same time, it's a fond recollection that brings a subtle smile to his face too.
If he hadn't just put his device back in his pocket, he would have sent the picture right now. But until then, he'll keep it put! Taking her hand, Cloud takes the lead again, determined to put their things away and maybe flop down on a bed finally. As relaxing as it was to ride out to the little resort, he'd been working hard today on the farm as well, up by 5 in the morning to get everything done with by the time they left tonight. ]
Y'know... Back home, on the northern continent, we had to climb a mountain while we were going after Sephiroth. [ His name is just used in passing. Don't fret! There's a point to the story. ] On the way up, there was a natural spring. Cold as it was up there, one dip and any bumps 'n bruises we took were gone.
[ It had healing properties. Something that definitely came in handy after such an arduous climb to the Northern Crater. ]
They say the red spring here does something like that.
[ Whether it was a quicker restorative process or not was anybody's guess. But when the full moon was out...who knew what would happen? ]
I remember there being a spring in Lunatia, too. You'd feel good from the water and all, but. . . you know how it is in that place.
[ Sexy water.
Weiss didn't experience it for herself, so it's not her story to tell. Even if she did, she wouldn't want to! Unless Cloud asked, but she doubts he would. And because she's never experienced it before...? ]
The springs are going to be like a sauna, right? People are going to be clothed?
[ Cloud rubs the back of his neck with his free hand, only shooting her a half smile at that. The fact that he wasn't getting all flustered or stammering? He never experienced the spring she was referring to either. But he does recall it with all the business he did across the city. ]
E'yup.
[ "The springs are going to be like a sauna, right?" ]
Huh?
[ "People are going to be clothed?" ]
Aaahh...
[ A B O U T T H A T . . . ]
We might be. But...
[ He can't speak for anyone else. He's at least going with a towel wrapped around his waist when he takes a dip. ]
[ She doesn't want to be in a spring with a lot of people, if that's the case?! That's just really awkward! She didn't even want to show a lot of skin when they went to the beach! ]
[ Without her even needing to say anything, he nods with understanding and a sigh through his nose. It's one thing that Weiss was modest when it came to the beach. It's a whole other matter entirely that she didn't want eyes on her for the scars that linger beneath. In the heat of the moment the first time they got together in Prismatica, there was an unspoken sense of trust that formed between them. He didn't reel away when he saw the wound inflicted upon her by Cinder. If anything, compulsion of the three moons aside, he felt a desire to understand her; he would show her that he didn't think anything less for the marring scars.
That didn't mean anybody else should or could see. That was for her to decide. Thanks to Cloud's tendency to overthink a lot, that's what's running through his head when he considers her. ]
Sure. [ He gives her hand a light squeeze. ] You know I ain't for crowds anyway.
[ They'll go when it's quiet! ...and he'll make sure he's got a long enough towel on. So he doesn't have to endure a flustered tsundere "DUMMY!!" barrage. ]
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[ And while Cloud's scouted this place out, he's also intending to play most of this getaway loosely with her too. A plan is a plan, but what's a vacation without some surprises? Entering the lobby, he briefly peers around before strolling his way up to the front desk. Being as late as it is, the young lady working this shift is seemingly minding her own business, skimming through a rather thick book. It's so quiet here that most that can be heard is the sound of her turning the page.
Were they that quiet coming in?? ]
... [ He turns to Weiss, cocking an eyebrow. Should they just...ring the bell? Say something? ] ...
[ ... page turn. ]
Hi?
[ The lady behind the desk stops, peering up from the top of her glasses. Then it registers with her, blinking rapidly as she almost immediately shoots upright.
"Oh!! Please forgive me, Iii um, I didn't hear you come in and..." ]
Got a reservation for two. Cloud Strife.
[ Cloud ain't gonna give her a hard time. But he ain't about to coddle her for not paying attention either. Clearing her throat, the lady composes herself, pushing up the bridge of her glasses before pulling out another book of reservations.
"Strife... Strife... Ah! Yes." She spares a glance to the white-haired huntress, just to make sure. "Excellent! I'll have your room keys prepared right away."
Excusing herself, she disappears into the back. A minute later, she's returned with what appears to be a small envelope and a brochure. All business and smiles, she's better composed than she had been earlier when the two surprised her. She hands the envelope and brochure to Cloud while adding,
"And here you are." ]
Thanks.
[ Their room number is on the outside of the envelope. Opening it up, out comes a pair of keys. ]
[ "We hope you enjoy your stay, Mr. Strife." She turns to Weiss and nods, "Mrs. Strife." ]
Sure wi-wait.
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Weiss' brain actually stops working thanks to the receptionist, so please forgive her for what's to come. ]
We aren't married yet— [ WAIT. THAT'S NOT WHAT SHE MEANS, EITHER. Her face is already red but now the colour runs down her neck and her hands begin to feel warm, too. ] I— no!
[ Oh, did the girl make a mistake, then? She seems confused, and without fully understanding the situation, just assumed! Before she can apologise, though, the flustered Huntress seems scary! Especially when: ]
Shut up!
[ The girl hasn't even said anything (yet)! She was going to apologise! But Weiss is equally as confused and embarrassed right now that she's just speaking without thinking. What is she even supposed to think at a time like this?! Cloud's hand is getting squeezed. Hard. ]
Cloud!
[ PLEASE HELP SHE DOESN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO ADJADJAFJAJF ]
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We're-
[ "We aren't married yet—" ]
?!! [ He whips his head to Weiss, eyes wide and face redder. ] Yet??
[ She's not even saying at him, but Cloud flinches by proxy when she tells the girl to shut up. Comically, he feels her hand squeezing his super hard. Normally it wouldn't hurt, but. Right now Cloud's defenses are down in more ways than one right now. Instead, he just stammers over his own breath, eyes darting between his girlfriend and the receptionist who, surprisingly now that she's gotten time to compose herself? Is staying rather calm despite the way the white-haired Schnee is flipping out. ]
This isn't-
[ "Cloud!" ]
What?
[ WHAT DO? WELL. He's prepared to start dragging Weiss away so they can cool their jets together, but before he can do that? The receptionist intervenes one last time, only looking mildly sheepish for her assumption. Sheesh. She's usually really good at reading people. But their business is taken care of, and it's been agreed upon that Cloud will pay upon checking out. So on that note?
"Should you need anything else, please let us know. I'll leave you and your fiancé to it then." ]
Wha-
[ THAT'S NOT RIGHT EITHER. OKAY. THAT DOES IT. HE NODS IN THANKS AND TUGS WEISS AWAY RATHER HASTILY. ]
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Someone else pointing it out is embarrassing, though! Even though they experienced something similar before, a stranger assuming as much was just—
Her heart is racing. She's so nervous now and she doesn't know if they should even talk about it or not! But as they walk away from the reception desk, down the hall to where their room possibly is, she can't help but wonder what Cloud is thinking. At a time like this, he would normally be the one to calm her down, but he seems just as flustered, too. ]
I- [ He'll probably feel her slowing down some, once they're away from the lobby. The walls in this resort should be thick thay no one else should be able to hear them. ] I hope I didn't say the wrong thing.
[ Because if that's why he doesn't know what to say or what to do, then... maybe she misunderstood. Those times they would talk about how they feel for the other, she always got the impression that they were on the same page. But deep down, a future with Cloud is what she really wants after everything is over. Perhaps she's a little eager being so open about it, but she's also never chased after love before. And with him being her first love, there's nothing to base anything off of. She just knows to give it her all, as how she does with everything else. ]
I guess I wasn't thinking.
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Gulp.
Marriage. ]
Huh?
[ Said something wrong? Cloud can't help the arch of his brows lifting with sympathy. Now did he do something wrong by dragging her out of there earlier? True, Weiss did flip out earlier. But he knows her. He knows that this is just practically a kneejerk reaction from her by this point. It took him a long time to open up and grow out of his "Not interested" phase. ...and even that hasn't been buried entirely. Sighing, his shoulders droop as he squeezes her hand again, this time more reassuring than "dragging her along" than before as he offers a timid smile. ]
Nah. You didn't. That just...caught me off guard too, is all.
[ They keep walking, this time at a much more leisurely pace as they're luckily going the right direction. He's familiar with this place to an extent anyway, having scouted it out during his first time arriving here. ]
Ask me if we're dating and I wouldn't bat an eye. But... [ Oh god. His face is getting more and more red, despite the fact the light smile hasn't left his face yet. ] ... Hahahah...
"Mrs. Strife", huh...
[ He sounds so thoughtful as he says it. The way they reacted was equal parts embarrassing and funny in hindsight. ]
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Eventually, she matches his pace, by his side now instead of behind him. Her expression still carries some uncertainty, but she also sounds more decided about other things. ]
Well... I don't know if I want to lose my family name. [ While she may have been disinherited, she's still proud to be a Schnee. The accomplishments of her grandfather are things she won't ever throw away. ] "Mrs. Strife-Schnee"?
[ YES SHE'S VERY SETTLED WITH THIS ORDER OF NAMES, THANK YOU. ]
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[ Wait for it. ]
Cloud Schnee. Mr. Schnee-Strife. Cloud Strife-Schnee.
[ It's not often he has "fun" like this. ]
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So, where's our room, Mr. Strife-Schnee?
[ They can go about their mini-vacation now! ]
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Just down the hall from the springs. We're almost there.
[ Which meant that if they wanted to, they can take a dip anytime they so pleased! A shower or bath was nice, but soaking his aching muscles after all the hard training he tends to do was sounding very appealing in the near future. ]
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Hopefully the people here aren't noisy.
[ If they're close to the springs, then that means lots of people will be passing by their room! ]
I'll need to find a nice place to go to for your birthday.
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[ Where they'd go for his birthday and all. Cloud would be turning 26, having spent two of his birthdays in Prismatica before waking up here. Before coming to that planet, he didn't put much stake into the day. Then, it was usually up to Tifa and the kids to surprise him and make him stay put long enough. But he never didn't enjoy it. Cloud was just...still coming around. Jump ahead a good year or so? And how he received his own party on Prismatica was something amazing if you knew him from the past. ]
Wonder if there'll be new lands to uncover for the King. Like connecting with Lystellus or Amegahara...
[ They talked about going places! And right now, the pickings were slim if they wanted to be safe. ]
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[ Oh, she said "we". Assuming he would include her in his plans and all! If he wants to do things on his own, too, then of course, she'd give him the time and space. But Weiss just thinks by default they'll spend the day together. ]
... there may or may not be any surprises.
[ Because she's determined to sweep him off his feet. It's just a customary Weiss thing at this point. ]
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You'll blow me away somehow.
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[ It won't be anything extreme! But she does want to surprise him again. In a good way! She wants him to enjoy every day of his life, whether he's with her or not. After all he's done for her and the happiness he's given her, it's only fair to return the favour, right?
The hall eventually shifts into a more scenic view as they reach the spring area. The rooms in this area are a little bigger than the other rooms they've passed through. Different packages and all! Theirs should have a comfortable-sized bed with a small foyer, a hallway with a door to the bathroom to the side, and a decently sized closet should they want to put their things in there. The windows in the bedroom are glass sliding doors that lead to a cosy private garden of sorts, as well as their own mini-spring. Fortunately for them, the moon should be shining bright the next couple of days. The spring's restorative properties should have a great effect!
The view outside these rooms don't exactly contain the red spring— wouldn't wanna watch everyone bathe, you know? But it does show a nice and quaint garden where people can relax and walk around in, take pictures, meditate. There's a wooden door at the end of the flowery path that leads to the entrance to the spring. And when they pass by this place, Weiss tugs on Cloud's hand to tell him to stop for a bit. They can walk around later, but she's getting excited! ]
Can we take a quick picture?
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Their room is as he'd hoped it would be. A little more extravagant but not quite as jaw-dropping as their snowy escape to Lystellus before. To him, they'd only really be using this room to get comfortable and rest up.
Among other things. But that's not on his mind immediately.Stopping when he feels her tugging on his hand, he blinks when she asks for a quick picture.They've had a couple here to commemorate the little moments, but it's been harder to find "precious" memories like they'd created on Prismatica. This felt like one of the first big escapes for them in a long while. So hearing her ask for a photo again... ]
Sure thing, birthday girl.
[ She can have anything and everything she wants of him. Cloud pulls out his mobile device, wiping the camera lens just in case before realizing that oh- they don't have anyone to take a picture of them. They can just take a selfie! But then, ]
Hang on a sec.
[ Brow furrowing only for a second, he loosens his grip on his phone, only to let go entirely as it begins floating upright in front of him. Slowly, staying upright and properly aimed at them, Cloud begins lowering his hand. 'Kay. Steady. Easy. Sloooowly...... ]
...
[ Cloud's hand drops to his side, leaving the phone to float a good distance in front of them, ready to take their picture. He can't ask the Chocobo Chick to take the shot. And...does the Arma Gigas even know how to use one of these things? Regardless, it took a little concentration in the beginning, but now using his own Kinetic magic, he's keeping the phone afloat and steady with his mind. It's a little harder to do without using his hands as a means to 'conduct'. But. ]
On three?
[ So strike a pose! He'll tap to get the photo when she's ready.
And pray he doesn't screw up and drop it. dafkjh]no subject
[ But she's laughing, anyway. She really likes being given special treatment! And she's told him many times that he spoils her too much but she adores it, anyway. Just knowing that Cloud wouldn't do these things or say these things with just about anyone makes her feel really good about herself. ]
Oh, that's so clever.
[ akdhakd HER BOYFRIEND IS A GENIUS!! Setting her stuff down on a nearby bench, she proceeds to wrap her arms around one of his as she leans against it, smiling at the camera with such excitement and glee. ]
Three!
[ SHE DIDN'T COUNT DOWN... ]
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Wait three-?
[ Subconsciously, the camera flashes midair, taking the shot as he blinks rapidly at the light. It doesn't blind him- he just got caught off guard. But she didn't mess anything up either. Retrieving the phone, he can relax again now that he's not focusing on pushing buttons with his mind. Showing her the shot with his free hand. It's... ]
... .... Oops.
[ They're in the bottom half of the shot practically. Like, chest to head and that's it and the rest is over them. Cloud didn't have the camera angled on them right. It was different when the devices back on Prismatica could focus on them and float for shots... Guess these weren't so advanced. ]
Here. I'll just...
[ Do a regular selfie instead. He tried being cool. ]
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[ It's a picture that Cloud took— of course she loves it! But she won't say no to him taking more pictures. Maybe they can do it elsewhere, though. ]
Mm, we can go around later and take pictures again. Oh, and over dinner!
[ They can eat at the restaurant, or they can order room service. Whichever's fine by her, but she does still want a picture! ]
We lost our pictures in Lunatia, but at least we still have our memories.
[ That's the most important bit. She says it so easily, but if she ever lost her memories of her time in Lunatia, she wouldn't be the same. The things that she held important before are still very important now, but everything she's experienced, who she's met and fallen in love with... nothing can compare. No experience in Remnant or in all the other worlds out there can compare. This—what she has now—is most important. ]
Let's make new ones here.
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[ Cloud was prepared to pull her in by the waist and get the phone aimed up high this time! But instead, he does decide to slip it back into his pocket for now. He'll give it a good look with her later. It's not like they weren't entirely out of the shot or anything. Then she reflects back on Lunatia with him. And while he's still happy, there's a slight sense of morose in his gaze as he briefly sets his eyes onto the night sky ahead of them. Even out here, the stars are shimmering with beauty...
And somewhere out there...maybe, just maybe... ]
Yeah...
[ Prismatica, Remnant, Gaia...they were out there. And it was their job to make sure everyone could get back to where they belong. Even if Cloud feels like he's already found where he belongs- side by side with a certain white-haired girl, wherever their journey may take them. His smile returns as he looks back to Weiss at his side. ]
Gonna have an album's worth by the time we're done.
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[ Hah... she's only kidding! Picking her stuff back up, she's once again ready to head to their room. Slowly but surely, her worries about this trip are getting forgotten. They may have had an embarrassing start, too, but it's turning around! ]
Send me the picture once we're in our room, too. I want to look at it again.
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[ Kidding or not, if there's one thing he wants to bring back with them when their journey is over, it's these memories in one form or another. Something to reflect back on and reminisce over. Something to share with their family and friends. And...if the future they saw together is anything like reality down the road, one day...if they really did have a kid...
It still makes him blush to think about. But at the same time, it's a fond recollection that brings a subtle smile to his face too.
If he hadn't just put his device back in his pocket, he would have sent the picture right now. But until then, he'll keep it put! Taking her hand, Cloud takes the lead again, determined to put their things away and maybe flop down on a bed finally. As relaxing as it was to ride out to the little resort, he'd been working hard today on the farm as well, up by 5 in the morning to get everything done with by the time they left tonight. ]
Y'know... Back home, on the northern continent, we had to climb a mountain while we were going after Sephiroth. [ His name is just used in passing. Don't fret! There's a point to the story. ] On the way up, there was a natural spring. Cold as it was up there, one dip and any bumps 'n bruises we took were gone.
[ It had healing properties. Something that definitely came in handy after such an arduous climb to the Northern Crater. ]
They say the red spring here does something like that.
[ Whether it was a quicker restorative process or not was anybody's guess. But when the full moon was out...who knew what would happen? ]
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[ Sexy water.
Weiss didn't experience it for herself, so it's not her story to tell. Even if she did, she wouldn't want to! Unless Cloud asked, but she doubts he would. And because she's never experienced it before...? ]
The springs are going to be like a sauna, right? People are going to be clothed?
[ SHE HAS NO IDEA. . . ]
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E'yup.
[ "The springs are going to be like a sauna, right?" ]
Huh?
[ "People are going to be clothed?" ]
Aaahh...
[ A B O U T T H A T . . . ]
We might be. But...
[ He can't speak for anyone else. He's at least going with a towel wrapped around his waist when he takes a dip. ]
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[ She doesn't want to be in a spring with a lot of people, if that's the case?! That's just really awkward! She didn't even want to show a lot of skin when they went to the beach! ]
Maybe we can go when no one else is there?
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That didn't mean anybody else should or could see. That was for her to decide. Thanks to Cloud's tendency to
overthink a lot, that's what's running through his head when he considers her. ]Sure. [ He gives her hand a light squeeze. ] You know I ain't for crowds anyway.
[ They'll go when it's quiet! ...and he'll make sure he's got a long enough towel on. So he doesn't have to endure a flustered tsundere "DUMMY!!" barrage. ]
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