Air Filters

Tifa and Cloud spent the day together, replacing air filters in Sector 7.

"Wow, it's so much easier to collect with a SOLDIER around," Tifa said, chipper. "You really oughta stick around."

"Maybe," Cloud replied, shrugging.

"Well, this next job is easy ... hey Marle!" Tifa said, waving at the old woman.

"Tifa, my dear, dear girl. What's he doing here?" Marle asked, looking at Cloud.

"He's helping with collections," Tifa said.

"Well, be careful. No skills, big sword, but a small ... weapon," Marle said, smiling devilishly. "You know, you really traumatized poor Marco. Just stumbles around saying "Reunion.""

"He was confused," Tifa said, defending Cloud. But in that moment, the word triggered Cloud, and he felt cold and dark and distant. Tifa shook him back to reality.

"You okay?" she asked, looking concerned.

"Yeah, fine," Cloud said, getting up abruptly.

"I have to go see Daddy at the bar. But I'd love to have a drink with you soon ... and hear what you've been up to for the last five years."

Shit, Cloud thought.