Who: Sephiroth, Irvine Kinneas, Sigurd Harcourt.
Where: Balamb Garden Training Grounds.
Why:  Irvine just can't quite seem to avoid Sephiroth as of late.
Date of Log:  August 31st, 2000.






Late night in the training grounds... you know, when even the people in the supposed Secret Area have gotten tired of making out and seek their rooms for the evening. It's a little after midnight, almost more of one am, and the lights are dim, leaving the indoor jungle of this place somewhat on the eerie side. It's a dangerous place to be sure, and in the dark more so.. right? Not that this stops the kids from coming here and trying out their skills.. getting stalked by the monsters that lurk behind the fronds and the strange twisted over growth that this place sports. It's fun getting chased around in the dark by something that is only too willing to eat you! Well, Seifer might say that anyway, but he's not here and we shant speak for him anymore. ;)
Anyway, your reasons for being here are your own, but it's late and it's dim and the foliage around you shivers from time to time with the passing of small animals who live within it. Because of the quiet there is nothing to stop a strange sound of wrending the air. Strange in that it almost sounds like a T-rexar... if one were strangling the poor thing to death. It gurgles and it thrashes and in the end there is a loud thump as something very heavy hits the earth with enough force to make the area all around it shake briefly...

Seeing as Irvine had just 'broken up' with his latest flavor of the week/month/etc. He had a bit of energy to burn off tonight. She hadn't taken it too well, and the gunman hadn't been exactly 'nice' about it either. Then again, she read way too much into his feelings for her, even after he'd blatantly told her from the start he didn't want any real attachments. She was cool with it, until the second time they slept together. Now, it was time to pull up stakes and move on. No woman could hold onto him for very long, and he meant to keep it that way. The training center at night is a lovely place to work off excess energies. He had laid down and attempted sleep, but unfortunately it was not forthcoming and he'd merely tossed and turned for a couple of hours before arriving here.
Normally he'd be seeking out a nice 'perch' for sharpshooting. Though it was a talent he didn't need to practice that often, it was easy. And far better to find the prey first rather then become it. Besides, he wasn't really hear for training purposes, just to get his mind off his 'ex-girlfriend' (who was never really anything but a screwtoy in his eyes anyway, cruel boy that he can be at times), and hopefully tire himself out so he can finally sleep. Badb, who has never really approved of his little trysts, has since retired to whatever part of his soul serves as a napping spot, leaving him to his thoughts undisturbed.
However, something seems odd tonight. Though it's possible for others to be out here at this time, the training center's always open after curfew, he rarely finds another Cadet or SeeD out here at this time. Hearing the strangled cry of the T-Rexaur, it does, in fact, sound like he's not quite alone. He listens, and begins walking in that direction, keeping a wary lookout around him for anything that'll try to snack on him before he actually gets there.

It didn't used to be a clearing, but it is now thanks to the fact that something knocked down one of the old trees. It's ragged stump is still attached to the trunk by a few clinging lengths of bark, but that is all as it lays battered and ruined on the training ground floor. Just beyond that, near another badly swaying tree, being showered on by a wealth of green leaves that are still fluttering down, is the bulk of one of those red dinosaurs. On it's back is something you probably don't at all want to see... Sephiroth. Dressed in the outfit that the pictures in the newspaper always showed, the man's eyes are blazing green to the point where they are bright enough to cast strange shadows about his long, pale face. The outfit is all black leather, leaving chest bare, and on each shoulder is a huge silver pauldron. They give him an illusion of bulk that his lean form couldn't manage on its own.
The great critter is now on its side, and the man is holding to its shoulder in a couple of ways. One foot is propped against the ground, just behind the things head, while the other knee is pressed into a spot just above it's shoulder bone. Both hands are wrapped up in one of the silver cables that make up the lame barrier that surrounds the walkway of the training area. He quite literally has the thing wrapped about the T-rexaur's throat and did indeed strangle it to death. Since the man didn't have a weapon when he arrived he improvised.
As if the eyes weren't eerie enough, Sephiroth's features are showing something in the way of expression... and it's almost lust. Yes, he enjoyed this a great deal, and although there are no other signs of any such hormonal feeling, it shows in those eyes and the near glee that lights the grin he wears. Well, that was fun while it lasted. Should try this again! So, that thought in mind, the SOLDIER slides off the large monster, freeing his leather covered hands from the cable so that he can get it off the T-rexaur. Of course with the cable beneath a thing that has to weigh several tones this might be interesting to see just how he does it.

Irvine hangs back, even though he doesn't usually do this sort of thing when seeking out someone else in the training center. It's better to stay out in the open, so folks don't mistake -him- for another beastie sneaking up through the brush. But, the hairs on the back of his neck are rising for some reason. Maybe it was the muted death cry of that T-Rexaur... or something. No, he kinda stays off the makeshift bridge area, finding a nearby tree to climb into. (Badb's dexterity gift comes in real handy at this point.) Peering through the foliage, he blinks as he recognizes Sephiroth. What in God's name is he doing back here again?
It's also about this time that he realizes the method by which the formerly Dead General has killed the T-Rexaur. Baby blue's widening, Irvine is reminded never to piss off Sephiroth. If a man can strangle a T-Rexaur with a cable from the walkway, he could surely snap a man's neck without a second thought. Is he afraid? Not really, he had been assured his life was in no danger, and he'll take that at face value until anything otherwise trips up that naive belief that a man always sticks to his word. Alarmed is a better way of putting it, especially since that look on Sephiroth's face is disturbing at best, terrifying at worst.
He's not paticularly worried how the man's going to free up that cable. If he's strong enough to strangle a T-Rexaur, he's probably got some ability to slide the cable out from underneath it too. Otherwise, he watches from the trees, remaining unobtrusive for now to observe.

Freeing the cable isn't as easy as one might imagine, but where as it would be nearly impossible for a normal man, it's just mildly annoying for Sephiroth. Tossing one end of the cable over the thing, the other is wrapped around the man's forearm so that he can keep a good grip on it. If you are paying close attention you will be able to notice that there are score marks on one of the pauldrons, his right side, and that something dark drips off his dark fingers. He didn't get out of this inscathed, but neither does he seem to pay it any mind. Putting a shoulder to the T-rexaur's head, Sephiroth uses the strength of his legs to lift a head nearly as long as he is from the ground just enough so that he can pull the cable out from beneath it. Takes three tries, but he manages to free it all, and then spends a moment coiling his impromtu weapon up. The coiled thing is placed on the sightless eye of the monster, for it was the nearest spot, and the man lifts his right arm to test it a little. Fingers are flexed and the joints are tested. With a quiet grunt he deams is worthwhile enough to continue ignoring for now, and allows it to drop back to his side.
Since he has no means to sense others, at least people for the spirits niggle on the edge of his consciousness thanks to his Cetra ties, Sephiroth has no idea you are there in that tree and won't unless something draws his attention to you. Powerful he might be, but omnipotent he isn't anywhere near. No matter what his ego might say about it all. Now that the fight is over and he's been checking out his wounds, those eyes have dimmed somewhat and his features have returned to their normal nearly mask-like arragement. Apparently it's only in battle that he feels the things he does.

Seeing the 'lust' for battle slowly dim from Sephiroth's eyes, Irvine calculates that this is a better time to be noticed then say, while he was in that frenzied state. Holding his shotgun in one hand, he sets his free hand against the branch and swings down, letting himself fall to the floor of the training center with a soft *thwump*, crouching a moment before straightening again. He only steps into the clearing so far, however, just so he's there to be seen, if Sephiroth so cares to. He's in his typical cowboy 'herder' gear, even down to the duster and chaps. There's one thing new, however, the Galbadian holy symbol around his neck, dangling against his half-bare chest. He didn't think he'd run into anyone at this time of the night, so it felt semi-daring to put it on. Who he's daring is beyond him, he's the one who seems to have a problem being a former Holy Knight.
Having watched Sephiroth manage to free the cable from under the Rexaur, and inspect his own wounds, it further reminds the redheaded gunman that this is a man, and not a God. This is good and bad. Good because Irvine does lose some of his initial fear of him. Bad because he has lost some of that initial fear. Brash youths like Irvine need that fear at times to keep their fool heads out of trouble.

God? Oh, no, no where near a god for all that he would believe otherwise. Not a god, but at the same time he is also more than a man. It's not an easy thing being the only one of your kind and having to live in a world that you don't understand and that can never understand you. Sephiroth allowed Jenova to talk him into believing he was a god for the simple fact he didn't have a name for what he was. When you are more than human, what else is there to be? Sadly Sephiroth would make as poor a god as he does a man.
As you leave your tree and rise to your feet on the edge of the small clearing he has only just made, the one time SOLDIER turns to face you, chin lifted. He turns with enough force to make his long hair flow out behind him like some odd cloak make of a thousand strands of snow colored silk. It ripples as it settles down over silver metal, sliding over pauldrons to sway against the dark leather of the jacket he wears. The battle lust has faded and in seeing you here a smirk spreads over thin lips. "Kinneas." It's a purr of sound that almost doesn't quiet have enough to reach you, and yet it touches all the same. A great, oddly shapped cat with glowing green eyes. The only thing Sephiroth lacks is a long curling tail to lash about. You did surprise him slightly, but after killing that urge is dimmed somewhat and he doesn't seem inclinded towards violence at your arrival. However, he does turn long enough to be able to pick up the coil of cable he had placed down just moments before. "Are you here to warn me away again?" The tone is nearly taunting, playful, and it really does sounds as though he were purring. Is he notices the symbol you now wear nothing is said of it, and those luminous orbs do not linger on it.

"Obviously I don't need to," Irvine replies simply enough. Inwardly the man's mere presence is enough to set the redhead's hackles on a steady rise. Kinda like facing a predator in the form of a man. No, wait, no kinda about that. Sephiroth's preternatural stance is highly noticable, like a great cobra coiled with fangs constantly bared and the hood raised. Cornflower blue eyes flick toward the corpse of the T-Rexaur. The scavengers of the training center will feast well on it for quite some time. The shotgun, thusfar held at his side, is shouldered then, the butt of it cradled in his palm. "I didn't know you were still here. Haven't learned all of Garden's myriad truths and dirty secrets yet?" He's speaking rather frankly now, having really lost the urge to dance around the issues anymore. He never did like that sort of thing.

Sephiroth ducks his head just enough to throw his face into shadows. He knows only too well how it makes his eyes leap out at people for they are honestly the only color on the man. The milky white of his skin, the pale of his hair contrasting with the dark of his chosen attire... and a pair of vividly green eyes that have little to do with natural about them, from their mako color to their glow and especially with the slit of black down their middles instead of a human circle. Cable in one hand, the man stalks forward a few steps to stop himself well out of your arms reach. Being close isn't something he at all enjoys, but at the same time he knows only too well how his sheer presense tense to set others on edge - if not out right frighten. "You know I am here now." His voice thrumms through the words, making them a little deeper than his voice normally would be, and all the more playful. The calmness of the day before, the emotionless, seems to be gone. In it's place you have a predator who's out hunting. Just what he's hunting for is the question. "Your dirty little secrets hold no interest for me, boy. I already told you why I was here. Whether or not your choose to believe that is none of my concern." being spoken to frankly is actually something Sephiroth likes. Do few people are willing to do that with him. Too bad for you today isn't one of his better ones and he's not wholely rational at the moment.

Irvine has seen enough of Sephiroth now to have at least gotten used to him. Again, this is good and bad. When he's used to something, he loses the ability to tread carefully. Reaching up to fiddle with one of the little gold hoops in his ears, he shrugs, "I didn't mean my own dirty secrets. You never asked. Just Garden's... or the Guardian Forces'. I guess if you're still here, your questions are still unanswered." Doesn't help that the redhead was extremely vague himself in describing them and their granted abilities. However, he's got this assumption going that if the General really wanted to harm Garden, he would have by now. This means he's just out for information right now. In the time since first meeting him, though, Irvine's done a bit of research on him, or at least the stories that've been told about the Butcher. "How is it that you're still alive, Sephiroth? Everyone's come to believe you quite dead." It's his turn to ask a few questions.

"As if your secrets were worth the time you believe they are." He tosses his head and turns about, totally without fear of the gun you have resting there in your grasp. The man knows very well what guns are capable of, but disregards that knowledge for the moment. "Or I could be here for something that has nothing to do with any of those.." He taunts a little as he reaches the corpse and moves around the head so that he can look down on the thing from the other side of it. Leaning over, he trials a finger along the line the cable wore raw on the animal's throat before lifting it to be able to lick off a bit of blood. It amuses him to be able to do so, and clearly the man is left handed. "I am here for information on Guardian Forces, for I have not lied, but watching your grow irate is entertaining. The things interest me." There he stops as he looks up at the tree that had been swaying so badly before. It's now come to rest, but at the loss of a goodly chunk of its leaves. Not looking back at you any longer, the SOLDIER walks forward and through the tree as if it weren't there. Or perhaps as if he weren't there. "And what is to say I am still alive?"

Luckily, Irvine's had the time to recover from Sephiroth's cutting remarks and he really gives no outward irritation toward the teasing tone. Sorry to spoil your fun there, Sephiroth. To the response toward his own little secrets, he says nothing. The less interest someone has in them, the better anyway. Besides, in the scheme of things, his life isn't that bad. He could be... well, Seifer, for instance. Shudder to think of it. As for the gun he cradles against his shoulder, it's recognizably Midgar made, though a bit of an older model.
He starts to slowly approach the corpse of the T-Rexaur as the General does, at least until the man leans down to lap at the blood. The redhead looks mildly perplexed by it, but not disgusted or even alarmed. He's seen that kinda blood lust before, Blood of the Lamb and Sacrament of the Lord your God and all that other bullshit. Actually, it hits him that this man isn't too far off from some of the Holy Knights he was supposed to Squire to. They wanted to turn him into some battle lusting killing machine like that? No thanks, he rather enjoys being a cowboy instead.
Of course, Irvine knows what Sephiroth is really after, information regarding the Guardian Forces. He's entertained thoughts of telling him. It might make him less curious regarding Balamb Garden. Maybe he'd stop running into him so often. Would that be a good thing though? His own curiousity thinks not. It's not everyday you run into legendary figures and actually get a chance to talk frankly with them. "What else is there to know? Unless you bond one, there are some things you'd never be able to understand." Bad idea, Sephiroth bonding a Guardian Force. Bad. But, a distraction does present itself now. The general walking through the trees. This gives the gunman pause till he hears the voice. So, aloud he replies, "If you're dead, you have quite an ability to affect the living world."

If Sephiroth ever truly knew the kinds things that the Galbadians were doing he'd probably be over there poking fun at them instead of doing it to you. Guardian Forces are interesting and all, but he doesn't plan to ever junction to one. Ever. What would be the point. He's already stronger, faster, and generally all around better than a normal human, with powers to boot. What would he need a GF for? And there is also his own ego, so the chances of him doing something like that are pretty damn well nil. Although 'playing' with the knights would be a lot of fun. Random destruction and bloodshed. *.* ....okay, moment over. He doesn't know your history for the simple fact he's never bothered to ask, and with that Sephiroth remains ignorant of your thoughts.
Perhaps if you did give him the information he wanted he would go away. The man doesn't generally stay in places where he's bored. At least not anymore. Now that he's free of ShinRa's guiding hand, he's allowed to go where he wills and so whatever it is that he wants. That in and of itself isn't exactly a good thing. Especially with Jenova always whispering into the back of his mind, singing to him lovely images that excite his blood. Right now thought she's somewhat sated and so is willing to allow him to ride the tide of his blood lust and calm down. Maybe later the two will go out and wantonly destroy some small village or something for no good reason. Right now he's talking to you, even if he appears to have his mind on other things.
Walking through the trees, and literally mind you, he reaches one of the walkways through the folliage and stops there, looking around. Bummer. Nothing else seems willing to jump out and try to bite him like the first one did. "I have no interest in junctioning one, Kinneas, just in learning about them." He pauses for a moment to look back to you, seeing if you have decided to follow. "Oh, I'm not dead. I never did die. No mortal can kill me."

Holy Knights are far more fun to pick on this this measely little Ex-Knight. He wasn't even really a knight anyway, he was in training at the time. He just wised up and beat it out of there when he realized what they were trying to do to him. He's far too laid back to ever take any religion -that- seriously. And Holy Knights are scary in their fanaticism. Only Inquisitors are more terrifying in that regard. But, Sephiroth's in the dark about all that, and probably not likely to ask without a reason.
In the meanwhile that Sephiroth is walking -through- the trees, Irvine kinda stands there casually, waiting. He's got a feeling the General's still out there and hasn't done his normal vanishing act yet. As he reappears, the redheaded gunman nods in his direction again, and he heads in said direction with his usual loping gait, responding as he moves. "Guardian Forces are almost beyond my understanding sometimes. I only know Badb with any real certainty." Ah, a name even, to place to the Force that guides the boy. "Not everyone is compatable with the Guardian Force that originally choses them." Oh, tidbits of information again.

No, Sephiroth doesn't know that the knights are more fun to pick on and so will just have to deal with the likes of you. Don't you feel so lucky? Since you have deemed it worthwhile to speak about the things he wants to know about, the man remains silent and patient as you drop the little verbal gems. He knows that you are giving them so that he might feel he's learned enough and move on. Too bad he realizes this and is now inclinded to stay just because of spite and bother you some more. Lucky for you the man isn't honestly spiteful by nature and doesn't do things for reasons like that. At least not long range things. Sometimes he will do small things, like taunt you, but that's about as far as it goes. The things he doesn't like are the things he destroys. Midgar is going to get a very special send off someday. Just have to plan it right.
"Then tell me of your little Badb who's sensabilities I seem to be able to offend on a regular basis." For he always seems to be able to piss her off in one fashion or another, and just with a few words. Then pausing for a moment the man laughs, throwing his head a little. It's not a pleasant sound, coming off as more of animal than human, and for that moment he sounds like some huge panther trying to express humor in the human manner. "And maybe if you tell enough I will leave as you wish I would." No illusions about that one.

Is he that obvious? Irvine shrugs again, doing a quick mental check to make sure Badb is still out of his thoughts at the present. She's decided she doesn't like Sephiroth and providing the General with information about her is likely to be hazardous to his health. Not finding her, he refocuses his attention on the white haired man. "Badb" pronounced 'Bav', "is a wind spirit, she challenged me and I managed to pass her tests. She gives me access to wind spells. She is a part of me, can see through my eyes, hear what I hear, and even gets into my thoughts..." he pauses there, and then adds as an afterthought, "Especially when I don't seem to want her there." A touch of humor crosses his lips. He does like the Guardian Force that chose him, even as irritating as she can get at times.
As for being bothered by Sephiroth, it's not so much that he doesn't like the General. Well, he's kinda ambivilant about him in all honesty. However, he's already gotten into enough hot water by talking to him in the Atrium. If he's seen again? More then likely Cid won't be able to do much to keep this orphanage boy from a lot more serious questioning. And he can't quite seem to avoid the white haired man either. Perhaps the fates are having a bit of fun at his expense.

The more he learns the more he has to compare the bond you have with the one he was given before his birth. Meaning Jenova of course. She hovers in his cells, watches through his eyes, and seems to be there when he wants her least. Whispering promises of power and pleasure and the utter destruction of the world... in some ways perhaps one could say that she was similar to a Guardian Force except for the simple fact she doesn't at all guard. Unlike those spirits her's isn't a bond the man wished to strike up. Didn't even honestly know about until five years ago. Now she rules his life when she gains the chance, and it's thanks only to some people who wished to control Sephiroth that she's unable to do more than she does. He can't complete her mad plans at the moment even though the Seiryuu seishi certainly aren't doing anything for his own well being.
The way he is there is little to honestly like about Sephiroth, so don't feel bad that you don't like him. There seems to be only three on the world who do and only one of those truly likes him for who and what he is. The other two are seeking to 'cure' him and 'make him a better person'. If the fates are having fun at your expense there are times it seems that they are having a full on holiday when it comes to Sephiroth's.
Noticing the stream that runs through this place, the SOLDIER moves slowly over to it, each step more of a stalking pace than any human motion. Right now he seems to have shed most of his human semblance in favor of something other. Shifting the cable to his left hand as he crouches down, Sephiroth slides his wounded arm into the water all the way up to the elbow. Pain is something that doesn't bother him much, but the water helps cool it all the same. He watches the glow of his eyes reflected off the rippling surface of the stream even as he listens to what you are saying. "So how did you get her? You passed her tests, but that doesn't tell me how you found her." For they are two different things.

Watching from a suitable distance, read: one that -seems- far enough from Sephiroth to be safe and yet close enough to talk, Irvine is quiet for a very long moment. There's a bit of a dilemma running through his mind as to whether or not he should reveal the fire cave. Would Sephiroth go there to see it? It seems likely knowing the curiousity the white haired man has displayed toward the spirits SeeD bond to. Besides, if anyone found out he'd been so forthright about such information, it could be very bad for the redhead.
He's distracted from this ethical dilemma as he watches the arm being dipped into the water. More human reactions from such an otherwise alien seeming creature. Even as he seems like nothing more then a satiated panther at the moment, he still treats a wound. If he'd ignored it, Irvine would be far more inclined to worry.
Finally, he just gives up. Be it Seifer or Sephiroth, he's not meant to win in these situations. "There is a test we have to pass in order to become SeeD. We are taken to a cavern outside of Garden, and it is there we're made to find a Guardian Force. Some don't ever return. Some return without a bond. Some return with no sanity intact. Those that become SeeD, return with a bond."

About the only thing that makes it a suitable distance for you is that with your junction to Badb you will be fast enough to deal with him. Most people never realize just how fast the man is for he seldom shows that ability. Truth be told you and Seifer, and those others with high speed junctions, are going to at least be fast enough. It's something that has given him the edge for all of these years when dealing with other peoples. The one SeeD he has fought against didn't have a speed junction and that's how he beat the man. That was a long time ago however and no one here knows how the other died. Neither is Sephiroth telling.
Arm still in the water, crouching down there in a position that should be painful, but doesn't seem to bother the man any, you are watched over a shoulder. With those eyes it's not like he can hide in the shadows or anything. They don't come with an off switch no matter how much he would wish they did. "Hmmm." That is about your fire cavern explaination. If Sephiroth hadn't just spent months in the Four Kingdoms reading all of the things he has there would have been a lot of other questions, but for now this is enough. He assumes there is something more about the process. You just don't find a spirit after all. There is always something more, and since he can't see the spirits themselves the SOLDIER has the idea that watching a studen attempting for one wouldn't tell him anything more than you just have. Watching a kid sit there being mostly stoned as his soul is out battling for a GF isn't all that much fun. Nor can you learn from it if you aren't the one battling. There are a lot of things Sephiroth doesn't know, but he's not at all stupid and is learning. One doesn't have two genious parents and normally end up stupid as a post. Sure it can happen, but it didn't here. "What's an example of one who wasn't compatiable being chosen? You claim you are compatable with yours... what would happen otherwise?" Now that you have him thinking, and now that the cool water is dimming the pain in his arm, the man seems to be calming and growing more as he was the day before. His eyes are still brilliant however.

Those eyes will always be brilliant to Irvine, but like anything else, it gets to a point of saturation, and become something hardly noticed. You would think the redhead couldn't possibly forget those glowing cat's eyes. (Indeed they may even haunt his dreams for months... possibly even years to come, but that's another story.) But, for now, they are merely a part of the man, rather then a separate oddity. No, Irvine has no idea how fast the not-dead General is. Nor has he really done anything to reveal his own speed. Badb doesn't like her gifts being taken for granted, and unless he really needs them, he avoids the use of them. Besides, his natural aptitude for firearms is already staggeringly quick, she just makes him seem supernatural when her junctions are applied.
Hmmm, examples again. Well, he's gone this far, so Irvine sees no reason not to continue. "I knew of a guy who had bonded to a water spirit... but he was deathly afraid of water. It didn't last, the spirit eventually abandoned him." It seemed odd to him that the two had meshed at all in the fire cavern, but he knows experiences vary greatly. According to some, he'd had it easy being challenged by Badb, though he's not at all inclined to agree.

The eyes aren't normally this bright, but they vary according to the man's energy levels and whether or not Jenova is in control. It has nothing at all to do with emotional states, and in fact his eyes show nothing at all of his emotions. When it comes to Sephiroth perhaps it's not accurate to say that eyes are the window to the soul. Either that or he truly lacks a soul. That's an idea even he would not find comforting in the slightest. Having a soul is something he would want to have even though Jenova would wish it other. She just wants a powerful puppet, not a thinking and breathing man who has a mind of his own and a desire for something other than her plan. Right now though you are dealing finally with more of Sephiroth than his wayward mother. He's the rational one of the two.
"And what was he like afterwards." What effect did the spirit leaving have on someone who had tried so hard for it? "Are there repercussions?" The man finally lifts his arm from the water and still doesn't seem to care that it is still clade in black leather. About the only difference in his costume from those seen in pictures is that he's missing the two silver bracelets. They once held his materia until Nakago stoke the bands months ago and has yet to return them. To be honest Sephiroth hasn't much noticed the lack of them except when it comes to the healing materia he lost. It was a powerful one and could have taken care of this effortlessly. Now he simply deals with the pain.

Sephiroth's inner workings are beyond Irvine's understanding. He knows nothing of Jenova, or of his or her energy levels. All he has to go on is his own instincts. And even if the white haired man seems preternatural, Irvine's got this odd belief that everyone has a soul of some sort. Perhaps it's a belief he never wanted to rid himself of when it came to dumping all the bullshit he'd been forcefed back in Galbadia. Some of their doctrines and scriptures were kinda neat, after all, even if slightly deluded... ok, -severely- deluded in some cases. Though the white haired man would never know it, the gunman won't buy into him not having a soul... somewhere.
Ah, afterwards, and prices. Yes, the bonds do have a price, some worse then others. No sense in holding this back either. "I don't know what happened to him, actually, I never saw him around after that. I dunno if he left or was let go. And most don't ask." Another brief pause, the gunman reaching up to remove the little holy symbol and return it to his duster pocket. It's a distraction to him, something to do as he decides what kind of example to provide for the 'price' one often has to pay. His own seems good enough. "Memories. Many tend to take away our memories. The extent of it varies, I have most of mine." or so he thinks... He remembers talking to Squall about this time, and how much he seemed to have lost, it makes him outwardly shudder. "There are other little quirks. Sometimes our spirits ask certain things."

Loss of memory brings Sephiroth to frown. Yes he actually shows some kind of emotion and it's because of the fact that in some ways, no matter how dark and bad they might be, all he has is his memory. And since that memory starts from literally within the womb he doesn't want to lose a wit of it. His thoughts remain his own on this subject however and all you get is a tiny shake of the head. It sends the long bangs swaying, brushing brow and cheek bones, but he soon looks back down to the water and thus hides his face from you. The man shifts his stance from one of crouching to one of kneeing, all unmindful of whether or not he's getting dirty there on the edge of the stream, and opens the one clasp there at the front of his coat. Gloves are next removed, the action a slow one for the fact the leather is soaked through and therefor difficult to work. These are set aside and hands slid behind the small of his back to work a clasp there as well. It undoes the two straps over his chest and this done the man shrugs his shoulders and allows the whole heavy mess of metal and black leather to slide off and down his arms. Beneath his is just as pale as his face... where there aren't deep teeth marks thanks to that t-rexaur. Protected from shoulder nearly down to elbow thanks to the paundrons there are nasty gashes all along the lower arm thanks to the things teeth. Some places are bare to the bone as he peels the jacket off and looks at it all rather dispasionately.
"You seem to suggest that there is only one chance to junction a Guardian Force. Should you have one and lose one, does that mean there are no second chances?" This is asked even as he pokes about at a wound, frowning faintly at the thing. Kind of like one would find a dead mouse in a place you really just didn't want one. Nothing to get freaked out about, but simply distasteful. He does watch you take off your cross however and it brings one white brow at arch. Did you believe the cross would drive him off or something?

Actually, though neither is aware of it, Irvine fully agrees with Sephiroth in terms of retaining memories. He may not recall things as far back as being in the womb, but he does have glimpses of his infancy at times, things he remembers as sensations, abstract, but there nonetheless and he knows where they came from. Bonding a Guardian Force had been his greatest fear, knowing that he would experience the loss of something, maybe even everything, as it seemed to be in Squall's case. But, he had survived it with most of his important memories intact. That's what counted.
Seeing the wound actually surprises Irvine into silence, distracting him from replying to the white haired man's further questions. He knows what T-Rexaur's can do, and the fact that Sephiroth is still alive after such a nasty mauling reminds him that this is both a man, and yet, more then a man at the same time. "I'm afraid Badb doesn't give me access to healing spells... or I'd try to do something for you." Odd that he's even considering it, to a man who's coldly dispassionate disposition has irritated him on more then one occasion. It's just in the boy's nature. They haven't made him a cold blooded killer yet in this Garden.

Thick with thought, the white haired man leans forward and once more dips his arm into the chill waters of the stream. If there were more light one might be able to see the haze of red that makes small clouds in the clear stuff. He's not bleading a lot any more, but he still is if sluggishly. Beneath the water fingers flex, but his mind is on other things entirely. "I know one of your fears is that I shall seek one of these spirits for myself, but there is no risk of that. I have no need of such a thing." And that is the honest truth. "Now would I wish my memories to be removed in any manner. That alone is enough to make me avoid such a union." This was all said because of your silence. Sephiroth often misjudges people and he took your stun over his wounds as something else entirely, so he seeks to explain himself.
Deciding that the water isn't going to be able to do him any more than it already has, the lean figure rises from the water, and also rises to his feet, pausing long enough to take up the collar of his coat in his left hand. It hangs down in his grasp, and he doesn't at all care that it drags on the grass. "I need no healing spells. Soon I will sleep and when I wake the arm will be whole again. I have already told you once that no mortal can kill me, and if man has no chance then no beast has one." Sephiroth seems amused all over again, smirk hinting on his lips. The gloves he had been wearing still lay there on the wet grass, apparently forgotten.

Continuing with his silence, Irvine listens, even tilting his head slightly to the side, red tendrils of hair sweeping against his cheek, the hat at such an angle as to only really reveal one blue eye. The fact that Sephiroth wants his memories is another human trademark to the gunman, seeing as it's the exact same thing he had feared before being chosen by Badb. What a case study this man is. If Irvine were at all psychologically inclined, he'd have a lot more to ponder, query, ask. But, he isn't, and usually he feels it better to leave well enough alone.
This ends as soon as Sephiroth rises again, the smirk crossing his lips. No man can kill him. Irvine almost gets irritated, but stops himself from frowning. Actually, a thought occurs to him. No man could kill him... but junctioned to Badb, the redhead is not quite human. Nor are the other students so close to graduation, or the SeeD ranks. But! he's not quite arrogant enough to believe he actually could provide much of a challenge to the notsodead General. Oh, but it'd be fun to consider it anyway. So instead of revealing anything outwardly at the statement, he keeps his gaze unreadable. "Then I guess I'll stop being concerned."

Actually no matter what you junction with you can't kill Sephiroth the way he is now, which is one of the things that fuels his arrogance on the matter. This presense before you is only an illusion. Solid perhaps, and it most certainly breaths and bleeds, but it is none the less and illusions and with that no matter what harm you bring to it the man himself won't die. Be put out of commission for several days assuridly, but doing this apparition harm won't do anything more than make him sleep and make him rather pissed at you. To kill Sephiroth you have to know where his stone is and destroy the body trapped there within... and as you don't even know about the stone, much less where it lays.. the odds of you killing him here and now are slim.
Makes for a heady feeling of invunerability, doesn't it? Sephiroth's been running high on it for weeks now. The pale face lifts almost as if in challenge and his eyes still blaze out of the depths of his skull. "No, Kinneas, even with your little spirit you can't kill me." He taunts you in his quiet voice, sounding almost calm. Almost. This action brings something else to occur. Something you haven't felt before. An aura of chill fills the area within twenty feet of Sephiroth, so if you are within that range it's like the air went from jungle hot to artic cold. This is a sign of Jenova and she's very near the surface now, almost dancing behind his eyes and looking for a fight. He won't attack first, but there would be no remorse if you were to start something now.

No, to Irvine, this is a man, not an apparition. He has no knowledge of this stone, or anything about Sephiroth's nature, or how to kill him, regardless. That said, the boy is brash, but he is -not- stupid. Attacking Sephiroth would be asking for trouble (if not outright death), not that the redhead hasn't gotten into stupid stunts like this before. (Well, none quite so dangerous as this.) Now, however, feeling the chill sweep across the general area, he does suddenly get defensive, the gun sliding downward to a ready position to reveal the speed with which the boy can move without Badb's aid, for now. However, feeling the adrenaline rush within her Chosen, the Guardian Force stirs from her slumber, stretching feathery wings to caress the tense gunman's thoughts. *What is this? Mmmm. I am here if you have need of me.* Her gifts swell forth, breezes that are not there touching at his hair, his duster. Almost making him look like something out of those really bad old west movies, where the gunslingers square off with the western winds tugging at them in the moments before the actual shootout.
He makes no motions to attack either, merely taking the defensive unless it looks like Sephiroth really means to test his combat prowess, as well as Badb's.

It's the breeze that brings the white haired SOLDIER to laugh, and all over again it's not a human sound but more of an animal's. A purr that starts deep within his chest, swelling upwards to reach the air in a cacophony of sound. With a step forward he begins a slow stalk in your direction, and should you not move further away that aura is allowed to sweep over you. It claws up the backs of your legs and sends shivers down your spine. Certainly not something one would find comfortable. "Are you ready to try?" He asks, words rumbling out as if he were some large predatory cat thrumbing over a bit of attention or its supper. "Are you going to see if you are able .. human?" No matter that the man taunts Sephiroth stops rought six feet away from you and holds there. No, just like you he isn't about to make the first blow. If you are wise enough not to start anything he will leave you live. (At least in his own mind. Please excuse the ego, it does grow heavy from time to time I know.)
There are lines of blood slowly tracing down the length of his right arm to circle his wrist and eventually drip off the ends of his fingers and down to the earth. Those fingers curl inwards towards the palm, pale turning crimson. His other hand still has hold of that jacket, which drags over the grass, whispering of leather over the greenery. When Sephiroth comes to his stop, he is nearly grinning at you, eyes bright indeed. Mother has come out to play. Are you willing?

This is like having to face the final boss in a game when you're a level one character at the very beginning of the whole story. You can't win it, no matter what you try to do. Irvine is aware of this in an abstract sense, but, he's not so certain that Sephiroth really means him no harm at this point. It's a tough decision to hold the defensive gesture or try a pre-emptive strike to get away. Is it the glowing eyes? Or that sudden animalistic sound to his voice? Maybe it's that clawing aura that scratches at his spine, actually making him outwardly shiver. Cornflower blue eyes wide, he merely stands his ground, neither retreating nor attacking. What a greeting Jenova gives, it's enough to make one never watch the movie Psycho anymore, for fear of shower stalls and glowing cat's eyes... or something. "What are you trying to prove, Sephiroth? What new test of yours is this?"
For Irvine's part, he's doing a decent job of being outwardly less afraid then he is on the inside. Heart pounding in a terrible rhythm, adrenaline running high, even Badb's encouragement is hard pressed to keep him there much longer. No, she doesn't like cowardess, but stupidity is fairly high on her list of dislikable traits too. It's harder to say which would be worse. If he stays he's stupid, if he leaves he's afraid. There's just -no- winning this one. He -is- hesitating, however, finger on the trigger, but reluctant to pull it. Fights usually start with the second blow... and some of them -end- on the second blow too.

"Prove?" He purrs out the word even as he sets himself into motion again and seeks to close the distance between you. Sephiroth places himself right before your gun, leaving the barrel opening at any location you care to choose to place it. "I have nothing to prove to you, and you have nothing to prove to me." The words are spoken with a soft laughter that still fails to show on his face. Just that strange grin which somehow remains seperate from it all. "It's one of the greatest lessons you will learn in time, boy. Especially if you are a warrior. The only one you have to gain the approval of is yourself. It doesn't matter what I think of you, or even your little wind spirit thinks of you.." Unless you move it out of the way, and you most certainly can for he won't stop it, Sephiroth trails a bloody finger down the length of the rifle. It should be a seductive motion, but he doesn't mean it as one. "Are you going to shoot me?" Fear? What's that? This man is mad. What's he got to fear? "I told you more than once already, Kinneas.. if you don't attack me I will not kill you. It's as simple as that." The white head cants to one side, and bangs sway to briefly block the view of those luminous eyes rather like a pendulum. Green and then white and then green, etc. "So.. what are you going to do?" Now this close you can tell that Sephiroth really is purring. Somehow he can purr just like a cat. Must have to do with the slitted eyes and the feline sounds he is capable of making.

Indeed, the gun is moved before Sephiroth can touch it for very long, lowered. Irvine's forces his stance to relax, though his lips are parted slightly to accomadate a need for a bit more oxygen. His heartrate is still pounding, his fingers tense against the Midgar-made shotgun. The barrell is held off to the side, finger still on the trigger in case he need to lift and fire suddenly. However, having the white haired Genderal this close to him is really unnerving. Especially that purring. Is he a man or a cat? "I won't attack you, not unless you really feel like trying to kill me." In other words, he's a bit smarter then he looks at times. And he -really- doesn't want an introduction to Jenova's bloodlust, even if he isn't aware she's a part of the maddened General.

Nearly of a height, the two of you are now eye to eye, although the only thing that hides his in any way are the bangs that hang down past the man's chin. Must use a lot of hair gell to get those things to stay that way. (Seifer's player claims they are like an insects feelers and Sephiroth just hasn't shown anyone yet that they can move around and stuff. >.>) Where you are needing additional air, the SOLDIER is standing as calm as can be, giving off chill where your own body should be giving off warmth. "Killing you would take little effort, and is not at all my intention here today." Since you won't let him touch the gun that bloodied hand is once more lowered to his side. He always seeks to keep careful control of his fidgeting, but right now he doesn't seem to be doing anything of the sort. Jenova doesn't fidget. Sephiroth does.
The pale covered head cants to the side once more as the man regrads you levely for a time. He knows he has you frightened and over all it amuses him more than anything. No one believes it when he says he won't attack or harm unless he himself is attacked. "So what shall I do, Kinneas?" He thrums at you, leaning forward slightly. Yes this really is all a game to Jenova.

Space. Need space. Irvine actually takes a step back at this point. Badb ruffles somewhere in the background. Her instincts are simple, attack him, take him out. This is the battle maiden in her coming out. That and she distinctly doesn't like this man... this thing that he is. The urgings are there, and somewhat visible as Irvine's still got a finger on the trigger, his stance kinda twitchy even. But, he's fully human, not some sort of human-ish, alienesque creature with a human's trappings and quirks. He's also not a born killer. He also isn't controlled by Badb the way Jenova controls Sephiroth. His will is his, and thusly he opts to ignore the indignant, cold fury of his wind spirit.
Seeing as Sephiroth seems more interested in playing games then actually attacking him, Irvine actually gets gutsy out of the blue and shoulders the shotgun, forcing his finger off the trigger. "If you're not going to kill me, maybe you could back off a little and stop the intimidation crap." A touch of ire in his voice. He's growing tired of this little ploy.

Just one step back will not remove you from the aura of cold that encircles a certain white haired man, but he doesn't make any move to follow you either. Sephiroth stands just some feet from the stream that threads through the training center and holds his heavy shouldered jacket in his left hand, hanging down to he partially crumpled on the grass. It is nearly one am here in this dim place and the two men seem to be talking there, looking eye to eye. I can't being myself to say talking calmly, for this is anything but a calm situation no matter there seems to be no conflict going on. "Intimidating? I have not at all been trying to be intimidating." Well, that isn't the whole of the truth, but... "I have lifted no weapon against you, made no threats, and only offered you assurances." The SOLDIER is literally purring out his words, sounding like some strange cat. A very big cat mind you, but a cat none the less. More than anything it seems to be some large game.
"How can I make this less intimidating for you?" One thing of note, even as he seems to be doing an excellent job of intimidating poor Irvine, Sephiroth's right arm looks as if a T-rexaur chewed on it, which is exactly what happened. From the area just above the elbow, all the way down to the wrist he bares deep bite marks and there are lines of blood sliding down his skin to drip off his curled fingers. No matter the wounds Sephiroth then changes his shape, and his clothing alters right along with it. From lean, pale skinned warrior, the SOLDIER fades down into something Irvine say the other day... a teenager boy of about thirtteen with honeyed brown hair and large, dark eyes. He too is bare chested and strangely enough still has the same wounded right arm for all that he now looks nothing like the make infused man. Changed too is the jacket. Gone is the black leather with the silver shoulder pauldrons and in its place is the jacket of a Garden student, even as the leather pants have been replaced with the lower portion of a students uniform. "Will this suit you better? Put you more at ease?" The voice is now thin and and high like a childs, but clearly Sephiroth's own. Neither has the aura faded.

Though Irvine has lowered the gun, shouldered it even, and is really trying hard to control the flight urge that's beginning to well up from deep within, he -is- still spooked. Having that mixed with Badb's seething anger and ruffled feathers is confusing at best. Of course, there's that cold aura that sucks at his own human body heat. It doesn't help much to sooth the gunman's wariness either. He -does- believe that Sephiroth won't attack him. If he were going to, he surely would have by now and Irvine would be as dead as the T-Rexaur corpse that was left behind. After this, he has no compunctions about the white haired General. However, there is the problem of convincing his body that it's ok to relax now. Some instincts cannot be escaped, not even with human intellect overcoming so many of the original beastial qualities that now separates them from common animals.
Switching to the little boy's disguise does nothing to aid Irvine, now with that cold aura making him feel like he's gulping in artic winds. Actually, that's not completely true. It brings forth a new emotion to counter the intimdated fear, ire. Irvine can handle outright conflicts, but this game playing is starting to reek of the head games the Priests played with him back in Galbadia. Games meant to tease and restrict and force him into their will and bidding. "You really are enjoying this aren't you. You're worse then the Priests, I swear to God. Don't go to Galbadia, you might actually teach them a few things and they don't need it."

And a headgame this is... although the man isn't truly aware of what the alien portion of his genetics is doing, but the tone of Irvine's voice strikes a cord in Sephiroth. Something isn't right here, and no matter that he means he didn't mean to intimidate there is a lot of it going on. One of the main problems the SOLDIER has is that he doesn't even realize that Jenova is in control. She slips in through his defenses so soundlessly that he believes he is acting in the manner he wants to... and then it's too late and she's in control. However there have been changes as of late. Changes brought about by two people, one of which he loves, and the other who he is in fact related to in a strange way. Thanks to that he realizes out of no where what is going on and throws up his shields against his own mother. They are weak things, and wouldn't hold if she were to truly wish him, but for now she's been sated and allows herself to be blocked.
This brings about and immediate change. That being the aura. Something flickers behind Sephiroth's eyes and the calmness Irvine say before resumes as the aura vanishes. It still leaves a cold touch to the air, but this is soon overwhelmed by the humid warmth of the jungle that surrounds you both. "How am I worse than the priests?" he asks as if none of the rest had happened. Sephiroth does keep his childs form however. The games are done for the moment and he is once again in control. Jenova didn't care about appearances, but he doesn't wish to disturb this any more than he already has. Too bad he doesn't know what a mess he's made of things. Him and his mother.

The change is noticed, from rabid looking demon-man to a calm and serene-ish boy. Irvine has to blink, caught off guard by the sudden-ness of it all. His racing heart finally starts to calm as the artic aura fades into something much less noticable, and is them overwhelmed by the warmth of the area. It makes it a little easier to breathe, at least. He still knows nothing of Jenova, so this is as alien to him as the white haired SOLDIER's preternatural nature. To himself, he whispers, "What are you..." though it's said aloud with a just barely audible tone.
After a moment to recover his senses, he realizes a question has been asked of him. Well, he opened his mouth and let it out, time to either insert foot or give the man an honest answer. Sephiroth seems adept at knowing when the redheaded gunman is withholding information. Either he's a mindreader or Irvine's just really bad at leaving out bits of a story. "Ever been to Galbadia's Churches or seen their Priesthood or Knight's Order? You'll meet some of the best, most bigoted, powerhungry individuals in the world. They know how to twist your words and play with your mind to make you out to be what they want. With a word they can brand you to death, and have everyone believing the charge no matter how rediculous." The words are nearly spat out in the end, a lot of anger the boy harbors for these people.

Cerebrus asked for this release, to be out within the wild again. The training center is close... not close enough, but it will do for the time being. He can't go as far as he'd like, back into the Fire Cave where he found the beast, but Sigurd will simply have to make do. It will, and nothing more, as there are too many things to do at the present to leave. The guardian understands that, but will only wait for so long. But it'll get the free world in spades, in just a few more days. Just a few more. Still, there is the sound of voices within the area, so the practice he had come for is studiously put aside. If there are people here, then it will simply have to be an exercise in patience.
An exercise that is put away when Sigurd steps out from a grove of fronds, lips pulled into a slight line. The instructor hasn't been in this place since his fight with Seifer, where both were injured, but he couldn't have expected the place to be empty. Still, there is the matter of the indiviuals at hand, and one that simply doesn't look familiar. "You know... standing around here is the worse thing you can do." Never know when a beast will come up... and some of them fly. But that's only until he sees the corpse of the T-rexaur, and the two within the clearing. Even he's had problems with the thing, and he usually casts pain on the beast. So there's a suitable pause over it all, though the last of Irvine's words register. Hmm? Galbadia? He's from there? There's a glance to the 'child', before he mentions, "You should head to the infirmary." With a bite like that? He should be out. That's the first clue, really, though he doesn't say another thing over it, only taking a step or two forward, the hum of that softly glowing whip evident despite the sounds that revbrate in the clearing.

'You'll meet some of the best, most bigoted, powerhungry individuals in the world....' The words hit Sephiroth like a slap and he actually winces with them. Not because Irvine has had a bad experience with those people, and not because the teen is rightly angry at the things that were done to him, but because Irvine has said in no uncertain terms that Sephiroth is just like that. Does he twist words and play with minds? The thought is appauling. Of course Jenova loves to do such things and does it every chance she gets, but her son is another matter. He's been the victim of such people all of his life and to be told that he is just like them.... well, it hurts.
So, the small figure just stands there and does nothing for a long time. Doesn't blink, doesn't even seem to breath, and he certainly doesn't show any emotion. He goes unnaturally still, looking up at the now taller gunamn and does nothing at all. A part of him marvels in how easily Irvine has managed to turn his world on its ear. Not even Tomo manages to do that. The Sigurd's voice is there, and the hum of the whip fills Sephiroth's ears. He lowers dark brows over his now brown eyes, and turns his head slowly to look at the man. Someone who is actually more of his age, if a little older. He looks briefly puzzled and then realizes he doesn't know this white haired man any more than Sigurd knows him. Because of that he gives up the pretence of the child and flows back into his true form. It takes only a second for those brown eyes to disappear and be replaced by glowing green cat eyes. The wound on his arm still remains however. "We are in no danger." He speaks calmly, voice lacking any and all emotion. It's almost a dead thing now. "And this is only fleeting." Once turned back, the jacket is leather all over again, and that wealth of silver hair spills down his back to brush the backs of his thighs.

At the sound of Sigurd's voice, Irvine glances up sharply, startled at first. As far as he knew, only he and Sephiroth were in here, and likely to be the only two for quite awhile. He relaxes further at that point. It's been harrying enough to face off with the notsodead General by himself, with only Badb to back him up. Sigurd appears much older also, and somewhat familiar in a way, though the redhead can't put a finger on it. Probably SeeD, at the very least. He starts to open his mouth... but stops himself from saying anything. What's he gonna say anyway? 'Hi, meet Sephiroth, I know he looks like a little boy but he's actually the Midgar Butcher.' Right. That'll be believable. Luckily, Sephiroth saves him from having to explain anything as he assumes his true form.
As for the General's silence before Sigurd's arrival, Irvine isn't psychic and has no idea what the man is thinking, merely watching him in that boy-disguise as he silently mulls over the gunman's words and stares up at him. For Sephiroth's own pride, should he realize it, Irvine is utterly clueless that he managed to turn everything around. He offers nothing more about the Galbadian theocracy and its inherant and blazingly disgusting flaws. Now his attention is on Sigurd, curious to know how the SeeD will react to the General's return presence to Garden.

And for a while, Sigurd is simply looking between the pair, trying to figure out exactly what's going on. Lips pull into a taunt line, expression grim with the usual addition of that eyepatch, but it fades away completely at the sudden melding, the change over the little 'boy's' features. No, saying 'Hi, meet Sephiroth', while the child was still that would have been a problem, but now.... that's a completely different story. Vastly different, brought on by the fact that the bite seems much more prominent in leather... and he looks no more phased by it than a normal person would be to a gnat sting. That's.... disconcerning. Just a little. "So I see," is gathered at length, though he still steps forward.
A complete opposite, really, between the two of them, though it's passed away for the more immediate concerns. As in, who is he, and what is he doing here. If he has a vague clue, he doesn't say anything on it -- his background is different from quite a few people, the speculation of ghosts and spirits more of a fact of life, rather and a dastardly story to keep the children in bed. But it's only in meeting those cat-green eyes, that inevidentable glow of Midgar's elite that brings him pause. Even their best couldn't take down one of those beasts. Which leaves only one alternative. ".... you were reported dead years ago." There's a glance over to Irvine -- he seems to be fine -- before he watches the General once more. "And hardly expected here."

Having pulled off that long leather jacket of black so that he could check the wounds on his arm, Sephiroth now merely holds the thing by the wide collar and just allows it to hang there at his side. This leaves the man barechested, wearing only a light coating of blood down his right arm. Bright red against milk pale skin. For all that they have nearly the same color hair, Sigurd and Sephiroth couldn't look any more different. Not with the dark one one's skin and the brighteness and alienness of the others eyes.
Warrior to warrior the SOLDIER inclines his head in greeting as Sigurd correctly assumes his identity. "To quote: The reports of my death were greatly exagerated." It should be spoken with the laughter that Irvine has heard lurking in that quiet voice before, but there is none. He's still reeling under the ideas that the teen-ager has hit him with and will be for some time. Hojo is not something he ever wants to be like, and yet now he has to wonder is like all children you can't help but turn out like your parents. A painful thought indeed. Luckily for Sigurd even if you aren't shielding the man's emotions are dim things. He simply doesn't have the ability to feel the way humans so, so even though he can feel it's like they might be behind shields - mutted somehow.. even though they aren't shielded at all.

Yes, Irvine appears to be no worse for the wear. Recovering from being scared out of his wits that he was about to be attacked by the Butcher of Midgar, but physically unharmed. Yes, it was technically Jenova that was playing around with the redhead's mind like he was her dinner and she wasn't hungry, but he doesn't know that. At any rate, as Sephiroth appears to be distracted by Sigurd now, the gunman steps away from the white haired General, his gun still shouldered, deciding distance is needed. His heartrate has returned to semi-normality, but the adrenaline rush still has to finish its pass through his bloodstream. In fact, he heads toward Sigurd, feeling a bit more comfortable in his presence then in the General's.
As far as Irvine is concerned about Sephiroth, the man is a monster, and that's not just because he scared the dickens out of the gunman either. If he ever were to realize the existence of Jenova and the strings she has on her puppet, he might someday think differently. For the time being, however, Sephiroth and Jenova are the same, and the thought of him wrecking havoc on the world again is a frightening one. To him, the apple has not fallen far from the tree... if it ever fell in the first place.

And one instructor is glad the carnage has been kept to one T-rexaur, rather than one cadet. The boy is familiar to him... why brings hackles... it must be because he transfered. Had to, to know about Galbadian Priests so intimately. That country's Garden is rather different from the one here, though he doesn't say as much upon it. Another time, another place. "So I see," is finally given at last, though for the moment arms cross over his stomach, heedless of the fact that part of the whip touches bare skin. The heat doesn't bother him, inasmuch as it should, most likely, but for now, he keeps his eye on the General, before musing, "Why Garden?"
Information? Troops? Well, both could be had here, as for the most part Garden does lend out SeeDs for those who can afford it... and some that can not. But why Sephiroth would be here, rather than going back to his old troops and rallying them is a wonder all itself. Is it that he can't go back? That something's keeping him from doing so? He doesn't notice, at first, Irvine's shifting back, but the non-chalant, stoic nature remains.... it's the trine-headed hound's curse. He couldn't leave, even if he were afraid, if he wanted to. Another part of the hound that imposes itself upon the man. Still, there's a matter of Sephiroth healing himself. He's heard stories, heard the monstrous things done in battle... but something keeps him innately silent over the subject. Even he couldn't say what it is... because he can't remember it. Instead, there is, "Are you going to be able to take care of that?" And conduct business... whatever it is.

Ah, we are back to the rampent paranoia. Even in his strange feeling of hurt, Sephiroth has to smile slightly as Sigurd starts asking the questions he does. It's a rueful thing like he was laughing more at himself than at either of you. The man pauses for a moment, gathering his thoughts and looks down at the jacket he holds there. With a little shake of the head the thing just vanishes as if it ever was, along with the gloves he had long before cast off and left on the banks of the stream. One nice thing about being a construct is in not having to worry about your clothing. "I'm here only because of my curosity." He says firmly, lifting his head again so that he can seek to meet Sigurd's gaze. Still the voice holds no emotion. "I have nothing to do with ShinRa anymore and if I could have my way I would tear that festering eye sore down and obliterate it from the world. This place? I merely wanted to learn about your spirits, your Guardian Forces. Not to have one, but just to learn. I have no need of such power when I have so much of my own." Drawing in a deep breath he honestly doesn't even need, the man flexes the fingers of his right hand before lifting it to thread with it's mate, ignoring the wounds totally. "This happened as I was taken by surprise by one of your training monsters. It bit me." He shrugs slightly, making it sound like it is no big deal. "Some sleep and I will be whole again. So... is there anything else you wish to know?" A lift of his chin speaks of challenge, but it never touches his eyes or his lack of expression.

Irvine Kinneas is far more familiar with Galbadian Priests then most Galbadian citizens are, but that's another story, nor is Irvine aware that Sigurd heard his bitter diatribe on their conduct and brazen abuse of their stations. The boy isn't leaving either, merely getting some distance from Sephiroth. That arctic aura isn't likely to be forgotten any time soon, and who knows now, how many mornings he'll be waking up with this feeling that his lungs have been turned to ice. Yes, the General has left quite an impression on the redhead. Well, to be fair, -Jenova- has left quite the impression on him.
He pauses when he finally feels he has that proper distance, turning to face Sephiroth again, silent however, as the man explains why he's at Garden. (And since it's true, he nods in Sigurd's direction wordlessly.) Sigurd has quite the authoratative posture, and Irvine's assuming he must be SeeD, possibly someone in the upper echelons. In partiality that worries him, he's already been interrogated thoroughly for talking to the once-thought-dead man and isn't looking forward to more questions and prodding and cool stares. Cid was able to protect him somewhat then, but a second time? *sigh* He probably won't have the same luck.

"I was merely wondering, since I was informed that you had been here once. No one was quite sure why." So he flat out asked. Being on faculty gives one that sort of edge, not that it is much of one here. "As for the Guardians... much of the information is about." At least in theory, for thos that make it to his class, and others. It had been a while since he's taken a few of the cadets into the into the Fire Cave, and it will be a while still before he does it again. The first to do it for Garden, the man is somewhat leery of giving out such information to anyone, regardless of whether they need the power or not. Things like that spread about, and some fool will get killed trying to replicate the process.
As for the arm, that blue eye blinks once, before he nods. "So I see." If it doesn't bother him, that who is head to say anything. Only a glance over to Irvine allows the man to take in his condition, the cadet literally standing in his blind side. "There were just thought that had... expressed concerns. Though I am sure that many had not realized that you were still here." And still talking to Irvine? He'll have a talk with the young man, later. But right now there's the more immediate concern that the General is still here. At least he hasn't tried taking the Guardian from Irvine, if it could be done. And he could have found the information already. It's obvious he's looking more for a first hand account.

Sephiroth has actually already gotten the information he wanted, and all from Irvine, so there will be no attempts to either take someone's GF much less seek to gain one for himself. He don't need no stinkin' Guardian Forces! He's all powerful! ...more or less? *ahem* Sigurd speaks and the green eyed man is watching Irvine move to a more secure location. Those eyes show nothing at all in way of emotion, just as his milky colored features have a lack, but inside something that Irvine said hurt him a great deal. However, emotional violence is something he's so used to that he merely attempts to deal. A physical attack would have brought about extreme reactions, but this just makes him quiet. Sad when one is so screwed up inside that they don't even know how to begin to defend themselves emotionally.
Concerns? "Such delicate talk." He replies quietly, gaze shifting against to Sigurd. "I have already said many times since coming here that is no one attacks me I shall not kill anyone. The same applies to all who are in this place." The words should be bitter, but still nothing. Only Sigurd with his empathy stands a chance of knowing that he does indeed feel something inside there. "Now.. exactly what is it about my appearance here that distresses you so? Is this another indirect way to attempt to tell me I need to go?" Gee, sounding a little bitter here, is he? Well, not really. he doesn't sound anything more than calm and quiet.

Irvine isn't gonna be more forthright tonight, not after what he just went through. In fact, he's fairly well staying out of the conversation at this point. Especially since he's already given much of the information to Sephiroth already. If that comes out, and somehow it probably will knowing his luck, he'll be in hot water for sure. Badb flutters suddenly back there in the recesses of his mind. She's still upset with him and in her difficult phase. The General upset her greatly with his comments, and then his threats toward her Chosen, be they mere mind games or not. Her aggressiveness comes across in the way Irvine's hair flicks about wildly on occasion. Almost as if she were tugging it in her frustrations. She really -really- wanted Irvine to just shoot the bastard, even if now, in the long run, it appears he was right to hold back.
Staring at Sephiroth's impassive face, the redheaded gunman still has no clue that he's actually managed to -hurt- the man. It seems so utterly impossible. As often as he'd tossed his barbed comments and mocking mind games at the younger kid, it's odd that he can't seem to handle them being redirected at him. If Irvine actually were to realize this, he wouldn't feel guilty about it, surprised maybe, but not guilty. Sometimes it takes such a thoughtless action to wake someone up, even if it's as cold, sharp, and hard as a dagger in the side. But no, Irvine's thoughts aren't even on the General at the moment, cornflower blue eyes going distant as inwardly he attempts a few times to sooth the crow's ruffled feathers. At least so she'll stop jerking his hair, dammit.

Poor Irvine. It's bad when they get upset with you, those Guardians. Sigurd's heard a howl in triplicate once too often, though in battle alone it comes out for all to hear. But when the Hound is upset.... well, he knows all too well. But for the moment, his one eyed gaze remains on the General, lips actually quirking into a smile that creases that permanently tanned expression. "If I wanted you to go, I would have said as much. It is more on Garden's behalf that I ask." The fact that the man is alive, despite the reports to the contrary are astounding. From what he heard, what he gathered from ShinRa, the man is truly believed dead by them.
And that's when he feels it, a flicker that touches just the edges of a tightly held empathy, held so due to the conflicting emotions that teenagers give off on a daily basis. Enough to give headaches, which is why he only lets down his guard in the privacy of his chambers, or when strictly needed. Now, however, there's a slight pause at the touch of hurt, unseen by the neutral and emotionless demeanor. It's amazing what facades hide... and what more that he sees. But it is kept under wraps, before he adds, "Garden is merely concerned for the welfare of its charges." That is heartfelt, only marginally backed by Cerebrus, a protector to an infinate degree. "Not everyone here is combat equipted, and it is to the rest of us to see for their safety." So... there is emotion under it all. Well, stepping around eggshells isn't doing anything.... let's see what the truth does.

There is a good reason as to why people normally believe that Sephiroth is cold and standoffish. ...mostly because he is, but that really isn't the point I'm making here. Beneath the masks and the cold demeanor he does have feelings. Crippled ones very much like a plant that has never seen the sun perhaps, but there all the same. He himself doesn't play with people's lives. The man simply doesn't know the things Jenova does during her times of control. Irvine spoke of memory loss before, and Sephiroth knew that he would hate such a thing. If he only knew about the moments his mother was keeping from him. Then again if he knew he might be inclined towards stopping her and that he doesn't want. So now he merely listens to Sigurd, watching that little smile, and struggles with things on several levels. Dealing with people is always a mistake. Why did you even attempt it here, Sephiroth?
A pale hand, his left and therefor not the bloody one, motions curtly through the air. It's about the only violent action he's made since killing the T-Rexaur by strangling the life from it. "I have already told you my intentions. Sugar coating them and retelling them will change nothing." He was here for information and has kept his word. No one has attacked him and so he hasn't killed anyone. The monster laying over there, in another tiny clearing that was created during the fight itself, bit first and then paid the price. So far none of the humans here have made that mistake. There are no troops waiting for his word to attack, no interest in Garden's secrets beyond knowing about the GFs (And in what he found he's decided he doesn't need to know anymore.), and he honestly means no harm to the students here. However, telling that would probably be pointless and so he makes no attempt.

Reaching up to rub at his temple, Irvine appears to be in the midst of quite an argument somewhere in the back of his mind. Badb is difficult to please at times, and doubly so when she's actually been angered. Much like the battle maiden she is, she abhors it when the boy doesn't meet a challenge presented to him. And really, Sephiroth all but just outright attacked him in her perspective. Her feathers are not about to be smoothed anytime in the immediate future. He would get up and go, leaving these two to finish their discussion, but since he's been a part of this (however unwillingly) he feels obligated to remain and see it finished. Then again... he's curious too. If he could just get Badb to settle down he'd pay a bit more attention to what's going on. As it is, he missed Sigurd's heartfelt explanation of Garden's protectiveness.
Finally, he glances back up at Sephiroth, sighing in exasperation though it's not directed at either of the two men standing here besides him. "Sir," directed at Sigurd, "He's being honest in that manner, he hasn't tried to attack anyone here. He's just been asking questions." That's a half-truth (even if the General doesn't know it thanks to Jenova's witholding of any memories), and if Sigurd's at all paying attention to Irvine's emotional state, he'd probably know that immediately. If the redhead can't withhold information from Sephiroth with any sort of skill or finesse, it's doubtless he could from the SeeD either.


There's a slight wince, though it really isn't at anything that Sephiroth is saying. It's what he's feeling that affecting the instructor, though the brunt of the emotion is hidden behind that eyepatch. Oh, he knows. He's simply giving the reasons why Garden was concerned. There /are/ children here, either learning the basics of reading and writing, or orphans that have nowhere else to go. He won't risk them for anyone's sake, regardless of their intentions. Irvine's emotions, and his comments as well seem to confer that statement, as the man finally nods once, before mentioning, "As long as we understand one another. You probably know by now that most have been told to leave you alone if they saw you." Which is the truth of the matter -- just in case, though nothing here is ever taken at face value. A preventive measure, one that comes from being in a mercenary lifestyle for years.
But lips quirk just a touch, as he looks between the two, and the dead T-Rexaur in the other semi-clearing. That measure was definately good, though for the moment his attention turns not to Sephiroth, but Irvine, as he mentions, "I know. But others don't." Nor understand. A good deal of the faculty here hasn't had much in the way of combat experience, though the instructors have. That some have lived so long is an accomplishment. Ones like him even more so... but that's besides the point. Something's not being said... but now isn't the time or place to question it.

Now he's not even sure why he tried. The more he sees the more Sephiroth comes to think that there is no place for him anywhere in this world... and he's right too. Sad, ain't it? So long as he is controlled by Jenova he has no where to go to find a haven and no where that he might be accepted for who and what he is. Just one of the facts of his life. It brings about a bitterness inside of him. One that he fights, but rises anyway. Dim perhaps to Sigurd, for for the man himself it's a fight to control such a strong emotion. Hey, for him it's strong. In the end he realizes he can't deal with this before the two of you. Not with Irvines accusations and not with the knowledge that although he's done no harm here neither is he at all welcome.
For the two of you little is shown except for a slight and sharp shaking of the head that makes his bangs lash about for a moment even as green eyes close. Sephiroth exhales abruptly just before he takes his leave of you. Jenova had held the upper hand while she had been in control, but her son lacks the same people skills she has. Truly sad when the alien knows more of people than her mostly human son does. All the same she was working through fear and other means of intimidation. Those are not hard things to bring about when one can control the likes of Sephiroth.
So.. he's there one blink and gone the next with no special effects what so ever. Just not there anymore. He doesn't even leave behind the blood stain he had been leaving on the grass, although the dead T-rexaur stays very much dead and the cable he had torn out of the walkway railing still lays near where he had been washing his arm at the stream.

Biting at his lower lip suddenly, Irvine gets the urge to look away rather quickly. He'd been warned not to talk to Sephiroth too, after all the interrogations and questions and stern faces, some with accusations they weren't voicing (mostly because he was one of Edea's kids, and had been 'asked' to keep it toned down). And here he was, talking to the infamous General again, for the second time following the warning no less. Nevermind that fate kept pushing him into the man without him really wanting it to.
Glancing up as Sephiroth pulls his latest vanishing act, he starts slightly. Looking from left to right, he half expects the man to pull the same maneuver he had earlier, waiting for him to appear right out of the foliage or something. It's a shame he isn't aware of the difference between Sephiroth and Jenova, he might actually feel some sort of pity on the man. It's doubtless that the General wouldn't want it, but redhead would feel it all the same, he's not totally heartless nor overly judgemental. As it stands, however, Jenova scared the hell out of him in the guise of her son. And all Irvine saw was Sephiroth in control.
Looking now to Sigurd, he shrugs his shoulders, looking somewhat weary, "I don't know if he'll be back this time, but he sure has a bad habit of being able to find me." Well, tonight had been happenstance, actually. But, he doesn't say that.

A matter of happenstance. That seems to go with everything, though the only one true fact is that Sephiroth was here looking for information. On Guardian Forces? But Irvine seems to be no worse for wear, and so he won't expound on it further. He had heard about the 'talk' -- a term so loosely used with the actual instance it's not even funny -- from Cid later, but the man was more concerned over Irvine's safety, than the others that were here in Garden as well. That's what he was trying to find out. There's more than one child here, more than one that needs someone to look out for them. Whether Sigurd is the best for that or not.... well, that's yet to be proven, even after all these years.
But when Sephiroth disappears, there's a soft curse under his breath, a curse in a language barely spoken in these parts. "Shimatta...!! Nani...." Damn. Well, it seems for now that the man is gone, even as his shoulders roll back for just a moment. His empathy already tells him he's gone, the barriers that he keeps in place let down in this one instance. He had hoped, for just a moment, to wonder why he came /here/ to learn about the Guardians. It was just as easy to talk to the Shumi Tribe... and they don't know about his history, to boot. But... there are too many what if's, and there's only two people that know the story to any extent. One is gone. The other....
It's there where the instructor turns his attention, but his head shakes simply. "It's alright. I don't think, with powers like that, that we would be able to keep him out should he return." The ones that could do such things, wards and the like, wouldn't step foot in Garden. So they'll have to go on their own resources. After a moment, he gives a half-grin, before wondering, "You alright? Seeing the supposed dead can be a shaking thing, I know."

Irvine snorts derisively at the comment. "It's got nothing to do with seeing the dead. Seeing a dead man decide if he wants to kill you is something else entirely and a lot more disconcerting." He lowers the gun then, hand holding onto the middle of the barrell now. He's not forseeing himself actually using it tonight. He did wonder about the sudden cursing, in a language he's never heard before (at least he doesn't think he's ever heard it, who's to say with as many languages there are around Garden), but he doesn't ask. Everyone's got secrets around here, or so it seems, or things they'd rather not discuss. As for Sephiroth's possible return, he shrugs. If Sephiroth's not satisfied with what he's heard, or decides he's got other questions, the redhead is sure he'll be sought out again. Or just suddenly run into him. The Fates are being exceptionally cruel to him as of late.

"Hmm... that /would/ be a bit more precarious...." Sigurd's eye shuts, brows furrowing just a touch over the retort, before he finally glances back at the student in earnest. "But it seems that it wasn't the case, after all. Or at least the result to use that." The hand holding the whip points that the held weapon in Irvine's possession. Secrets? This place is founded on secrets. Something he's gotten used to, for he doesn't know everything himself, even about himself. Save for the itching, the slight unnerving nature of /something/ he can't quite grasp. And it does, for all intents and purposes, worries him. He would say something, but he doesn't know what to say about it. Heck... even Cid doesn't know. But, that's for another time and place, before he glances over to the dead monster, then Irvine. "You headin' back to the dorms?" Just checking, as he himself isn't leaving until the student does. The empathy is an edge, are much as an equalizer and then some for the missing eye that he lost so long ago.

Irvine nods mutely, glancing back once at the corpse left over from Sephiroth's bloodlust. For the moment, he has to thank God... no, thank whatever really exists up there, that it's not -him- in that state. Pulling the holster off his back, he sets the shotgun back inside, closing it and binding it before fitting it over one shoulder. He had come here with a mind to hunt things originally. But, the mood for that has kinda been soured, especially with Badb still ruffled somewhere in the back of his mind, sulking. That said, he heads on out.