[It always seems to happen, moreso recently, that Sephiroth's presence in a conversation automatically seems to suck all potential cheeriness away. It's a result of the fact that he just can't switch off. What makes matters worse, he knows it and has started to hate himself for it.

Coupled with how stupid he felt over the kiss with Terra, it's not a good combination. Yet, Sephiroth steps a little closer to Cloud when he tones his voice down into being more private, watching the bearded face carefully.]

Fighting is all I've ever known, Cloud.

[He doesn't think that the other man needs reminding, but he's not got an opinion at all with regards to that fact. It's as natural as breathing to him. Yet, the second part of the comment earns a greater pause. Sephiroth purses his lips and sets his jaw a little sterner; the idea of others looking to him for a role model isn't a comfortable one.]

I know. It's standing out for the right reasons...that I'm most concerned with.

[He blinks a few times, keeping eye contact before looking down and then away across the floor at his feet.]