[The world is suddenly Nibelheim, the fires reaching so high that they seem to jump straight into the star-studded sky. But Sephiroth stands in those same flames, untouched, undeterred by the heat and the framework of buildings starting to groan under the pressure. Just like that day, the light glistens against the steel of Masamune, the blade that would take the lives of so many.

It’s nice to know that this event will forever remain etched into Cloud’s memory. Sephiroth’s made his mark, indelible across the other man’s mind, and he will remain there forever. Real, as he said.]

Consider that our goals might align. Or that you’d have no choice in the matter, regardless of what you say.

[He steps forward, through the fire and flames and hungry heat.]

All you must do is play your role, and play it well. You have suffered so much, haven’t you? Failed so many people. And yet there you stand… fighting, defying. The pain makes you angry, but it makes you stronger. I have so much more to give you.

[He gestures at their surroundings, the faint sound of screams echoing in the distance.]

And this is the root of it all. You left such a lasting impression on me that day. I had been so angry at the time.

[But now, of course, he only looks amused, like recalling a fond memory.]