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I decided to write this oneshot after doing Don't Be Afraid of the Sky, because I figured along with Aerith, Zack would want to say goodbye to Cloud as well. Takes place after Advent Children

Let the Snow Fall

I still find it funny that the two of us met on a snowy day. My best friend, Cloud Strife.

You were still an MP back then, wanting to become a SOLDIER. You asked me what it was like being one and I said that you'd know when you joined. I remember the way your head hanged in self-disappointment and your tone when you said "If I can." I know you lack confidence in yourself, but Cloud, you save the world. Twice now! I can't help but feel a little envious of the adventures you and all your friends must have had. Then again, I watched for most of the time, seeing you smile was a nice welcome, especially when I saw you at the church the last time Earth was being threatened.

I want you to be happy.

I feel that you should know, and hopefully you already know, I have never once regretted giving up my life for yours. Hey, anything for my best buddy, right? There are only two things I really want you to do.

Smile a little more often. You've got a great smile and people should know that. If you don't, I'll come out of the Lifestream and pull on your face until it stays stuck that way!

You should know the second. Let go of the past. Aerith and I don't have to be forgiven for the things that have happened. Hell, I'd die again and again, if it meant saving a friend. Your friends live in the future; kiddo and I bet 'someone' wants to be closer to you. Yeah, I figured that one out a loooong time ago, so get going! Life is meant to be lived, no matter how hard or how painful it can be.

Follow those two things, and I'll be a happy man. You'll be a happy man actually and who doesn't want to be happy? You deserve it, Cloud.

...eh, why do I find it funny about the snow?

It reminded me of you. A snowstorm is one of the hardest things to travel through, but when you come to the end and look back, you think "I made it!" You came out through everything that was thrown at you, no matter how tough it was and now can look at the storm and tell yourself it's over, then turn around and start walking again.

The sun's out, so go enjoy yourself. As for me, I'll keep watching.