Cloud was anything BUT a normal person. Anyone who knew him could attest to that fact. He had felt the presence of another in his vicinity, but still, he continued with his practicing until he felt the tiny rock hit the back of his head. "...!" In mid-swing, he paused and turned to look at the guilty par-

... holy crap, it's Aerith. Lowering his weapons, he attaches the smaller sword into the larger one (easier to carry after all) and moves to face the flower girl. He holds himself straight, but he's still unable to look at her directly in the face for more than a brief moment.

When he speaks, it's in that soft tone that's always been meant for the cared-for-but-still-departed, "Hello, Aerith."