Chapter Eighteen Add-on: Forgetting to Breathe

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When Leon left Riku to find Sephiroth and Cloud, he wasn't sure what he was actually going to find, but he had a feeling that Riku's suggestion of "talking to them" wasn't an accurate prediction of his fate for the evening. The looks Sephiroth and Cloud had given him earlier had not gone unnoticed, and they had made him uneasy.

Leon's main problem was figuring out how to handle this tangled web of relationships. As he made his way through the canvas tents scattered across the coliseum courtyard, he tried to relay the facts that he did know about, from what Cloud had told him about his relationship with Sephiroth, to how he himself felt about Cloud.

A few weeks ago when he had opened himself up to Cloud, he had thought that Cloud was as alone as he had felt, and it had been a good idea to let Cloud into his life again. Cloud had wanted it—he had always wanted that since they had been kids. So Leon had accepted the other man's affection and realized his own.

He had not realized that accepting something so seemingly simple would turn into this insanely complicated situation. With the return of Sephiroth had come the return of Cloud's memories in that nine-year darkness and also the return of a mutual love between Cloud and Sephiroth. Now Leon didn't just have Cloud to worry about... He had the man's possessive lover to deal with as well. Leon was sure that if Sephiroth had not been so relieved to see that 'Squall' was alive, Sephiroth would have already taken Cloud and run.

In fact, it wouldn't surprise him to find that the two of them were already gone. He paused outside of the tent he knew to be Sephiroth's, studying it with a solemn gaze.

Tucked away in a corner of the courtyard next to a lit brazier, the tent was far enough from the crowd of tournament junkies to be private and secluded. With a construction of six wooden posts in the shape of a rectangle, the higher middle poles creating the arch of the tent, it was considerably larger and more impressive than the makeshift leather and canvas tents around him. Even from the outside, it looked as though it could comfortably house six people.

The material was an off-white with crimson stripes down the sides of the tent, and the foreign letter that marked the front closed flap seemed to signify importance. After all, Leon thought dryly, Sephiroth was the Platinum Match. A cord of red rope tied open the right flap, revealing a flowing inner curtain of the same color. The open state of the tent was almost teasing, daring people to come near. To Leon, it was a blatant invitation that he was hesitant to take.

He wanted to resolve the complications between their relationships, but he felt awkward about approaching the subject with them. Yet, he knew that if he did not, it was likely that he was not going to get an equal shot at keeping Cloud.

Sephiroth had years behind his relationship with Cloud. Leon only had—what?—two weeks? He was practically an outsider.

No... He was worse. An intruder.

This wasn't going to end well.

He raked a hand through his hair and frowned, glancing to the side. For a long, quiet moment, he absently watched the strong flame dancing in the brazier nearby. Its golden light flickered off the stretch of tent and stone walls, creating a warm yet haunting atmosphere. He placed a hand on his hip and returned his gaze to the inner curtain waiting for him, wondering exactly what lay just beyond its elegant crimson face.

Well. He couldn't turn back now.

The shuffle of his boots on sand and the clinking of his belts seemed especially loud as he approached the tent. Something like apprehension tightened in his gut as he reached out to pull up the cloth. He lifted it, turning his face as he ducked under and entered the cozy enclosed space of Sephiroth's tent.

The air was warm and smelled of leather and sweat.

His feet stepped onto a heavy canvas covering the sand, and he spotted various furs and finely knitted cloths littering the floor, giving the impression that Sephiroth had certainly been here more than a few days, and had gained enough admirers to accumulate such comfort here. When Leon straightened himself and let the curtain fall behind him, his gaze landed on the two people he had come to see.

As a part of him had expected, he had indeed interrupted something. Cloud was just pulling away from Sephiroth's mouth, idly licking his lips as both of them lifted their eyes at the same time to regard Leon.

Propped up by his elbows, Sephiroth lay stretched on his back over a nest of fur blankets, his silver hair pooled under him. Cloud looked completely casual despite the suggestive straddle he was in, his legs on either side of Sephiroth's body. Their wings were relaxed, both dark forms laying boneless on the floor.

The two men watched Leon through sharp eyes, Sephiroth's faint smirk giving him a slightly predatory appearance, and though Cloud did not seem to share his amusement, Cloud's lack of expression seemed to only enhance the intensity of his stare. Leon said nothing as he met their gazes, giving off an aloof air despite his sudden unease.

Sephiroth's fingers tightened a fraction as they held Cloud's waist. Most of the blonde's accessories were already scattered around the floor of the tent—his armor in pieces to Leon's left, the red mantle curled like a snake at his feet, the golden claw resting harmlessly on a soft black pelt nearby, and his boots and other items in a similar state. Cloud's bare hands were fanned across Sephiroth's chest, the older man's top undone and hanging loosely at his shoulders, ready to fall.

Though Leon had expected something like this, it still hurt to see, needles of envy sinking into him despite his effort not to let the situation bother him. Determined not to show his disappointment, Leon uneasily glanced away.

He didn't have to be looking to know that Sephiroth's smirk widened at his sign of weakness.

At the sound of a soft whisper, Leon risked a look back, alarmed to find Cloud now fixing him with a subtle smile. Those blue eyes narrowed when he saw that he had Leon's attention, and he gave the brunette an appreciative look. His wing lifted off the ground, arching behind him, and as if by an unspoken command, Sephiroth calmly released Cloud as Cloud moved forward, slipping off the other man. He began to move on his hands and knees towards Leon, the expression on his face identical to Sephiroth's.

Leon knew at that moment that they had indeed been planning something and he had just walked right into their hands.

Cloud easily reached out, hooking his fingers on Leon's belts, and firmly tugged him forward. Leon fell to his knees, bringing him mostly to Cloud's level, and his heart actually gave a small leap as Cloud advanced on him, nimble, experienced hands beginning to unclasp his belts.

As Leon made no move to stop him, he realized something with equally growing dread and anticipation: there was no room for retreat. If he backed out of this, he would lose.

He took a calming breath, momentarily closing his eyes to collect himself, just listening to the sounds of metal and leather, feeling one belt at a time being slipped free from his hips. This was a new feeling. In their short time together, Cloud had never taken the initiative like this. It was almost like now that he had his memory back, he no longer had any hesitation inside of him when it came to doing what he wanted. Sephiroth's Cloud knew what he wanted, and it seemed like Sephiroth was going to let him have it. The knowledge both worried and excited Leon, who didn't want to be put in the position but was curious to see the results.

When Cloud finished pulling off his belts, Leon slowly lowered his face to regard him. From under his blonde fringe, Cloud's blue eyes flicked up to meet Leon's, and that tiny smile on his lips began to curl into a pleased smirk.

It was a dangerous look—dangerous and erotic—and Leon knew exactly what it meant. They wanted him to completely give in to them. All he had to do was participate.

He automatically tensed when he saw Sephiroth drawing near, that obsidian wing angled behind him, reflecting even the dim orange glow inside of the tent. His pale hair fell over his shoulders as he leaned forward, green eyes glittering with dark intentions. He reached for Leon's jacket, pushing his hands under it and over Leon's broad shoulders before trailing his hands down Leon's firm arms, drawing the article of clothing off. Leon clenched his jaw, narrowing his eyes at Sephiroth, but complied nonetheless, letting his jacket slip free and to the floor.

He wanted to be defiant, to take control, but at the same time he wasn't sure what to do, how to handle this situation, or what was expected of him aside from the obvious. In such a position, with Cloud and Sephiroth evidently working together to make him submit, he felt less like a participant and more like a... toy.

He couldn't say no—he couldn't admit defeat like this—but giving in was... hard. What did the two of them expect to come out of this? What did they expect from him?

As they began to tug off his gloves and arm belts, he slipped his eyes closed again and swallowed against his dry throat, his body giving a nice tremble as someone's hands then slipped under his shirt, warm fingertips tracing along the grooves of his abdomen. He felt his stomach sink under the gentle touches, a fluttering feeling moving inside of him in response, and as he began to pull away, he realized it was because he was ticklish there. Cloud hadn't ever really focused there before.

The hands returned, however, palms stroking firmly along his abs, making him shudder and draw in a shaky breath, his body reacting pleasantly to the teasing. A whisper of a thrill crept through him when other hands joined in, slipping under the waist of his pants to feel his hips, moving along behind him and admiring the curve of his back. That had to be Cloud. Cloud liked doing that.

Arching slightly into the touches, Leon breathed out, allowing himself to relax a little, recognizing the familiar signs of pleasure awakening inside of him. Uncomfortable but definitely there, anticipation filled him as eager hands tugged his shirt up and over his head. Griever jingled as it settled back around his neck, falling into its usual place, feeling cool against his warm skin.

The sound of his shirt hitting the floor made him open his eyes. Cloud caught his gaze and gave him a knowing look as he moved in, pressing a chaste kiss to his lips, almost testing, making Leon wonder of its meaning—

But then he felt the strong arms slip around him from behind, pulling him against a firm chest, a strange shiver passing through him at the feeling of Sephiroth's nipples against his shoulder blades. As Sephiroth held him, he fell a bit off balance, his weight resting against the other man as Cloud drew Leon's legs out from under him, quick fingers unzipping his boots and tugging them off, each making a heavy thunk as they were discarded. Socks followed suit and Cloud lifted his gaze to stare beyond Leon—at Sephiroth. He felt the man behind him nod to Cloud's silent question.

Though he kept his expression guarded, Leon felt trapped. His fingers dug slightly into Sephiroth's arms as he watched Cloud slowly begin to crawl up his body, moving with the grace of temptation as he kept his eyes leveled with Leon's stormy gray. His hands kept moving upward, from Leon's thigh, to his stomach, to his chest, to his shoulder, fingers curling in to keep himself steady as he settled on top of Leon, much like he had been with Sephiroth a few minutes earlier—Sephiroth, who was now moving, releasing Leon and letting him fall back so that he was laying completely on a soft fur pelt. Griever gave a soft jingle as it slipped, its pendant falling to the floor, chain pooling in Leon's hair. Cloud shifted on top of him to get comfortable, pressing an obvious erection into him.

Its presence captured Leon's complete attention, a soundless gasp escaping him as Cloud rocked forward, firmly grinding against him. Leon tilted his head back, brows furrowed in concentration as he clenched his jaw shut, determined not to make a sound, not to give them the satisfaction of being easily aroused by this. Cloud did it again, releasing a quiet sound of pleasure, and Leon felt a definite thrill move through him, his body betraying him, eager to have more attention. Pulling his wing in a little, Cloud drew its tip along Leon's ankle, his hands tracing over his ribs, eliciting tiny shivers from the stoic man.

Trapped between the urge to react and the knowledge of what would happen if he did react, Leon wasn't sure what to do, his fingers reflexively seeking a handhold in his desperation not to give in just yet—but his hands found Cloud's thighs and clutched at them, only encouraging the blonde. Sephiroth had meanwhile moved behind Cloud and was pressing a kiss to the curve of his neck.

Leon heard the whisper clearly as Sephiroth lifted his mouth, brushing lips against Cloud's ear as he spoke. "Switch." Leon felt his heart give another start, a part of him disbelieving this—

But sure enough, he watched as Sephiroth slid his hands up Cloud's sides, urging him to get up, and Cloud silently listened, moving off Leon. Leon felt his breath catch as Sephiroth knelt around him, passing him a roguish look before his long fingers began to unfasten his pants, wasting no time in pulling them open and sliding them off Leon's hips. Something tightened in Leon's gut, his mind clouded with denial—he would not enjoy this, this was Sephiroth, it was awkward and those fingers tracing along his bared skin did not feel nice—yet, they did, and Leon released a long breath as his awakening erection and the toned muscles of his thighs were revealed. Sephiroth lifted an eyebrow, a new smirk pulling at his lips as he openly admired the brunette's body, moving down it to tug the rest of his leather pants free.

It was done within a moment, that sharp half dread half excitement filling Leon again when he caught Sephiroth's stare, all of his defenses feeling useless and invisible under that sharp, predatory gaze. He didn't know this Sephiroth. He wasn't even sure he knew this Cloud. Their exchanged glances and shared smiles made Leon feel completely unprepared.

But before he could sit up and make an effort to regain some dignity, Cloud came at him from his side, hands firmly pushing him against the ground as he leaned in, parting his lips as he met Leon's with a searching kiss. This time Leon released a muffled noise of surprise, eyes widening a fraction as he felt Sephiroth's hair sliding across his bare thighs, the man's warm mouth descending on his sensitive stomach.

Leon drew in a sharp breath through his nose, his stomach sinking under Sephiroth's butterfly kisses, a noticeable tremor running up his body as the man cupped his hips, holding him down as a tongue slid over his navel. His mouth fell open with an involuntary gasp, allowing Cloud to deepen the kiss, tongues brushing, twisting together in a sweet, exhilarating dance. As Sephiroth grew more focused on his abdomen, lips and tongue and teeth alternating their attention to ensure that the blossoming red marks on Leon's skin would stay, Cloud pulled out of the kiss only to give a cute sigh, pink tongue darting out to lick his lips before he moved right back in, taking Leon's mouth and delving deep, eager.

Sephiroth's hands slid lower, fingers digging into Leon's thighs as the man's lips pressed into the dip of his pelvic bone, dangerously close to his hardening arousal. Leon uttered a small noise into his kiss with Cloud, shifting his legs in an impatient motion though he had no intention of encouraging any of this, his pulse already racing, blood heated, his mind whirling with confused thoughts, and his body thrumming with surprising want.

Where all of this reaction had come from, he didn't know. It was as if a part of him knew exactly how to respond, knew exactly what it wanted out of this, and Leon hadn't known any of it had existed. Where was the cold, standoffish façade he was so good at projecting? Why was he letting this happen?

Brushing his face against Leon's abdomen, Sephiroth smirked and slowly began working his way back up, warm palms massaging into Leon's hips as his tongue dragged along the ridges of Leon's chest. Cloud's mouth separated from his again, this time with a loud gasp for air, a trail of saliva connecting their lips for a fleeting moment before Cloud leaned back in, briefly kissing the corner of his mouth, his eyes darkened with desire.

Part of his hair hanging in his face, Leon lifted his gaze, staring up at Cloud under lowered lashes. He met Cloud's eyes, watching them faintly widen, irises dark, as if Cloud had seen something he had really liked in Leon's expression. It was at that moment that Sephiroth's lips found a dusky nipple, eliciting another quiet noise from Leon, before he circled his tongue around it and pulled it into his mouth.

"A-Ahh—"

Leon immediately lifted a hand to cover his mouth, but Cloud intercepted, his silent strength overpowering Leon's as he shoved Leon's arms back onto the ground. Cloud's blue eyes were sharp with warning as his fingers held tight.

"Don't," he advised, watching intently as Leon's defiant look grew frustrated, those gray eyes dark with lust and denial. He moved only his gaze to regard Sephiroth, who was giving Leon's nipple a rough lick. "Switch."

Sephiroth arched an eyebrow in challenge, but when Cloud didn't waver, a slow, feral look crossed Sephiroth's face and he nodded, rising to his feet, feathered wing folding behind him. "All yours," he announced calmly as Cloud also rose, moving to take Sephiroth's place.

But as Cloud knelt, Sephiroth followed, large hands gliding freely down Cloud's body, catching at the waist of his pants where his fingers began to undo them, working with the same efficiency he had used on Leon. Cloud let him, his wing stretching into the air, curving to the side, and his body relaxed against Sephiroth's, molding perfectly against the other man's strong figure. Sephiroth's arms slipped under Cloud's, cradling his slimmer body as Cloud began to finish the job, pushing his own pants off. He met Leon's sharp gaze, well aware that he was watching them, and Sephiroth's chin rested on Cloud's shoulder, he too catching Leon's stare.

Sephiroth's wing lowered and folded slightly in, brushing against Cloud's bare hip as he turned his face, breathing a kiss against Cloud's jaw. "Take him," he whispered, and the sound of his deep voice sent another tremor through Leon, raising the hair on the back of his neck.

Something pleased flickered in Cloud's eyes and he pulled away from Sephiroth, returning to his original position below Leon's waist. During the short time with both men away from his body, Leon had regained some control of himself, but as soon as he saw Cloud's attention focus on his erection, his heart picked up again, anticipation coiling inside of him. He could feel the heat of Cloud's body before Cloud even made contact. Leon lifted his knees, swallowing against his dry throat as he watched Cloud settle between his legs.

Cloud nuzzled his cheek against the side of Leon's knee and then turned his face, pressing a kiss to the dip of the bone there. Leon got the impression that the gesture was to reassure him of something, but his mind couldn't grasp what at the moment, his attention focused solely on the blonde head hovering close to his erection. Pausing, Cloud lifted only his eyes, staring up over the curve of Leon's leg to meet Leon's gaze, blue eyes narrowing slightly, creating an incredibly sexy expression.

The knots of excitement tightened inside of Leon. He was aware of Sephiroth moving behind Cloud, finishing getting undressed, but he kept his eyes firmly rooted on Cloud's as Cloud's lips parted, mouth descending, and his tongue darted out to give the head of Leon's erection a tentative lick, drawing away a bead of precum.

Leon's breath hitched, his fingers curling into the fur pelt under him, and he resisted the urge to arch into Cloud's next advance, which came quickly. Blonde hair framed his face as he took Leon into his mouth, eyes slipping closed and his brow drawing down in concentration, one hand wrapping around the base as he closed his lips firmly around Leon's heated skin. The reaction was immediate. Stifling a sound of gratification, Leon tilted his head back, his heels digging into the canvas floor of the tent, pushing against the sand beneath. One foot slipped, his knee brushing against Cloud's waist as the man leaned in further, lips sliding to the tip of Leon's length before enveloping him again, the soft heat of his mouth sending a wave of pleasure spiraling through Leon, making him lightheaded.

Leon wasn't paying attention, but Sephiroth was busy divesting Leon's discarded pants of a potion, pulling the top off the vial. Satisfied with the find, Sephiroth returned to Cloud's side, pressing the cool item into his free hand, murmuring into his ear. "Use it."

Cloud pulled away from Leon's erection with a quiet wet sound, noting Leon's soft sigh of disproval, and then turned his face, glancing at Sephiroth in question. Sephiroth gave him a knowing look, lifting a hand to stroke along the base of Cloud's wing. The dark appendage tensed and quivered, Cloud sucking in a sharp breath, eyes hardening with lust again. He glanced away from the man behind him, pouring some of the potion into his hand before giving the vial back to Sephiroth.

Leon watched the exchange with growing impatience, wondering what they were planning this time, but when Cloud saw his frustrated expression and smirked at him, Leon closed off his expression again, looking away. His stubbornness was immediately dissolved when Cloud's lips circled his straining erection. This time something seemed to have fastened in Cloud's mind, his resolve suddenly more certain, making his movements more precise and firm. His tongue stroked confidently along the underside of his length, swirling around the tip before Cloud lowered his face, taking him back into his mouth, breathing in the musky scent of Leon's desire. His clean hand curled at the base of Leon's member, tugging gently at the hair there, and Leon winced, trying hard not to push himself into Cloud's wet mouth.

A soft gasp actually escaped him as Cloud took him even deeper, his throat relaxing to accommodate the length, his breath gusting out against Leon's pelvis. The warmth and pressure of Cloud's throat was exquisite, the intense pleasure threatening to crumble the last of Leon's defenses, especially when Cloud swallowed, sending a sharp thrill through him. Then, as Cloud pulled back a little, returning to a more bearable position, he began a quick pace with his mouth, humming along Leon's arousal, the vibration and rhythm of Cloud's sucking making the brunette shiver.

Leon bit back a groan, squeezing his eyes shut as he clenched his hands into the fur blanket, now openly thrusting with Cloud's tempo, his toes curling at the overwhelming pleasure. He was no longer concerned with the consequences of giving into this strange arrangement, but a large part of him was still determined not to let them rule him so easily.

Yet even that was shattered with the introduction of Cloud's potion-slicked fingers finding and slipping over his entrance.

Leon's eyes shot open, a wordless cry of surprise leaving him. Cloud's advance caught him so off guard that he ended up thrusting sharply upwards, nearly choking the younger man, who backed away just in time, licking his lips with an amused expression. Leon gave him an incredulous look, obviously never expecting Cloud to take that kind of initiative, but Cloud merely smiled in return, blue eyes glittering with wicked intentions as he pushed a finger into Leon.

The brunette immediately tensed, holding his breath, mind spinning with a mix of intense desire, shock, and—yes, fear. Something inside of him definitely did not like the implications of Cloud's dominant turn, feeling vaguely familiar although he had no idea why.

Cloud's other hand around his erection drew him out of his shell again, making him relax back into the rhythm, his hips pushing into Cloud's firm strokes. Uncertainty twisted inside of him as Cloud slipped a second finger inside of him, scissoring his fingers to stretch the ring of muscle. Cloud was actually serious about this, though Leon knew that shouldn't have surprised him.

For a passing moment, Leon's eyes caught Sephiroth's, who was arched over Cloud and prepping him but watching Leon's reactions, which made the brunette significantly more aware of his aroused state. He kept his eyes on the other man as Cloud's strong fingers worked him to climax, nails lightly scraping along the sides of his length. Sephiroth's lips curled a little as he stared right back at Leon, whose lashes fluttered from the effort of keeping his gaze leveled, wanting to squeeze his eyes shut at the nearly unbearable pressure rising inside of him. His lips parted, harsh gasps escaping him as he rocked into Cloud's hand, Sephiroth's unwavering eyes heightening his excitement.

When Leon couldn't hold the contact any longer, he threw his head back and released a long groan, thrusting powerfully and spilling into the fingers around him, absolute bliss flooding him for one perfect moment. He hardly noticed when Cloud pushed a third finger into him, his body wracked with small tremors, his abdomen still lightly convulsing by the time he returned to his senses, raggedly breathing and blinking up at the ceiling of the tent.

Cloud gave a quiet moan, drawing Leon's attention back to the other men, and he watched as Sephiroth's hand moved rapidly over Cloud's arousal for a moment, spreading a glistening liquid around it. Cloud pushed into his hand, but Sephiroth retracted it, clutching Cloud's hip as his other hand, also slick with something, finished preparing Cloud for entering.

Leon sucked in a long breath, studying Cloud's erotic expression, aware of the three fingers also inside of him, now pushing deep during Cloud's momentary loss of focus. Despite the abnormal stretch of his muscles, Leon noticed it didn't hurt, the cool lubricant soothing whatever burn there may have been, leaving him with the strange feeling of being probed.

Sephiroth's hand finally pulled away, cupping the base of Cloud's wing and massaging into it, eliciting a sharp cry of pleasure from the blonde, his back arching in a catlike manner, his wing giving a desperate little flap. The sound of Sephiroth's small chuckle seemed to echo in the confines of the tent. Leon wet his lips, staring expectantly up at both of them, and when Cloud finally peeked his eyes open again to glance at him, Leon's gut tightened with anticipation again, seeing that dark look of lust in Cloud's soft blue.

Withdrawing his fingers, Cloud slid his sweaty palms along Leon's thighs, spreading his legs further, allowing more room for Cloud to move forward, guiding his erection against Leon's entrance. Sephiroth also seemed to be ready, a few damp locks of his silver hair clinging to the sides of his neck as he leaned forward, one hand curled at Cloud's hip, and he pushed smoothly into Cloud. His powerful thrust sent Cloud rocking forward, the blonde giving a heady gasp as he slid right into Leon in return, digging his fingers into Leon's thigh.

The brunette gritted his teeth, grunting at the intrusion and slight tear of muscle, subtly burning now but spreading like fire. Twisting his fingers in the pelt below him, Leon breathed deeply, trying to keep himself calm, shifting himself against Cloud to get more comfortable, but he only succeeded in drawing the pulsing length deeper inside of him.

Mere slits of blue, Cloud's eyes steadily focused on Leon's face. He pulled mostly out of Leon as Sephiroth drew back, and Leon had a second to relax, but then Cloud was reaching an arm under one of Leon's legs, lifting it, and Leon tensed it as Sephiroth thrust back into Cloud, pushing him deep inside of Leon again. Leon felt Cloud shudder, his black wing lazily stretching and retracting behind him, curving into Sephiroth's persistent stroking of its spine.

When the three of them met with the third thrust, it was the beginning of a continuous rhythm, Sephiroth leading it with long, piercing plunges into Cloud's body, making the younger man drive deeper and harder into Leon each time, relentless and thorough. Sephiroth was mostly silent, giving soft breaths of satisfaction, becoming more audible only with the quickening of the pace, his thighs beginning to slap against Cloud's backside. The sound of wet skin on skin was second loudest to the harsh gaps of both Cloud and Leon, Cloud's arm hiking Leon's leg higher to allow for a better angle of penetration.

Leon lost himself to the rhythm easily, lifting himself into it to meet Cloud's driving. The smell of salt and sex was strong in the air, a sheen of sweat covering their bodies as they rocked together, Sephiroth's hair falling like a curtain around Cloud's flushed body, catching on the sharp points of Cloud's wing, which began to sag, falling lazily to the floor when Cloud no longer had the conscious effort to keep it raised.

Sephiroth's green eyes focused on Leon from over the curve of Cloud's shoulder, and Leon stared back, eyes narrowed with lust, their eye contact a silent challenge, neither of them wavering. Sephiroth's smirk widened a fraction as he slipped his hands under Cloud, tracing his palms along his chest, making the smaller body shudder against his touches. When he brushed the blonde's nipples, Cloud gave a blissful sigh, sharply inclining as he plunged into Leon's body.

This time the connection was explosive, Cloud's length brushing something inside of Leon that sent sparks of pleasure shooting through his body like electricity, passion running through his veins like liquid fire and consuming him with elation. When Cloud pierced that bundle of nerves again, Leon couldn't hold back the husky groan that came from deep within him, his body arching hard into Cloud's, seeking more of that euphoric flame, and Cloud did not hesitate to give it to him. The blonde released his own fevered cries as Sephiroth finally stopped teasing him and gave him the satisfaction of driving straight into that same sweet spot Leon was falling slave to. Sephiroth's fingers closed around Cloud's nipples, rubbing firmly, his green eyes still focused on Leon, who was having difficulty concentrating at all, harsh gasps ripping from his throat.

"S-Seph—" Cloud choked, his wing giving a sudden spasm as he bowed his head. "I'm—"

But he didn't finish, a strangled cry escaping him as he gave a harsh shove into Leon, fingers digging into Leon's knees as he spilled deep inside of his body. Sephiroth didn't wait for Cloud's climax and kept thrusting into the blonde's shuddering body, taking advantage of the culmination of emotion, riding it out and continuing to force him into Leon. Leon tensed and relaxed his legs around Cloud, his harsh gasps picking up in pace as Sephiroth suddenly did as well, rocking into Cloud at a desperate rate, making the blonde cry out even after his orgasm. Hands jerking at the fur pelt, Leon clenched his muscles around Cloud's quickly reawakening erection, practically writhing against the ground as Sephiroth drove Cloud into him.

"F-Fuck...!"

As if satisfied with Leon's outburst, Sephiroth squeezed his eyes shut and gave a final thrust, his shoulders stiffening as he gave into his own climax, emptying into Cloud's body. Only then was Cloud allowed to pull out of Leon and collapse on top of him, looking mostly sated but also partially aroused still, his blonde hair dripping with sweat. Leon slipped his arms around Cloud's slick body, breathing heavily with him, watching as Sephiroth sat back on his knees, dragging a hand through his silver hair, looking hardly phased even by intense sex.

Swallowing, Leon closed his eyes, feeling himself beginning to calm down. He tensed when he felt Cloud shifting on top of him, brushing against Leon's remaining erection as he lifted himself. A feeling of emptiness and disappointment twisted in his gut when he felt Cloud move away completely, unable to even feel the other man's body heat. He heard the shuffling of feet on the fur hides and then the rustle of Sephiroth's wing, followed by a barely audible question.

"...uall.... still arou... okay?"

There was a pause, but then Sephiroth murmured a consent.

Leon lifted his gaze as Cloud stood over him, his eyes tracing down the younger man's well built body, taking in the soft gleam of perspiration on his flushed skin, noticing the small rivulets of sweat rolling down the curves of solid muscle, and the small stream of white tracking down from between his legs. He was, simply put, gorgeous.

Cloud's wing gave a gentle roll, spreading behind him as he began to lower himself onto Leon, who watched with an escalating need he had never thought himself capable of. Pressing his hands against Leon's stomach to support himself, Cloud sank onto Leon's erection, his body enveloping him in an exquisite tight heat, wet from his turn with Sephiroth, allowing Leon to slip into Cloud with ease right up to the hilt. Cloud drew in a soft hiss, one eye closing as he adjusted himself, eliciting an incoherent hum of pleasure from the brunette. The dark wing visibly quivered in the air as Cloud began to move on top of Leon, pulling off and sinking deeper, brows furrowed and his lips parted with quiet gasps. His fingers curled at Leon's waist as Leon's hands squeezed at his thighs, silently encouraging him as he lifted his own hips to meet Cloud's self penetration.

Sephiroth's palms were skimming up Cloud's feverish body, tracing his sides, feeling his muscles shift and ripple as he rode Leon, and Cloud gave an appreciative near purr, arching his back as Sephiroth brushed his nipples, rolling them under his fingers. Pressing his face into Cloud's neck, Sephiroth licked along his salty skin, breathing in the musk of his lust. He drew his arms loosely around the younger man's chest, lowering his wing around their bodies, feathers caressing the outside of Leon's arm.

With Sephiroth's influence, Cloud was easily brought back to a state of arousal, his ride on Leon becoming more zealous, his hips rolling sharply with Leon's each time he sank back onto him. When Leon reached his peak the second time, he came with a husky growl, fingertips pressing sharply into Cloud's thighs as he thrust sharply up and released himself into Cloud.

Cloud's hands caressed Leon's abdomen, easing the slight spasms of his orgasm, his warm touch bringing Leon quickly back to reality. Dark eyes lifted to meet Cloud's, whose lashes fluttered as Sephiroth nipped the curve of his neck.

Seeing them together stirred something within Leon, and he began to sit up, ready to take control this time. Cloud pulled himself off Leon, the withdrawal creating a distinct squelch of wet skin separating. Sephiroth seemed to notice Leon's intentions and narrowed his eyes, looking dangerous but amused—it was an expression that clearly told Leon who owned Cloud, and that this was only happening because Sephiroth was allowing it. Possessive bastard.

Leon returned the look with a defiant glare, his hands slipping around Cloud's arms to tug him to the ground in his place. Cloud said nothing, but his coy expression told Leon that both he and Sephiroth had expected this, and he obeyed Leon's silent command and stretched out on his back on the fur pelt, black wing relaxed at his side as he drew his knees up, spreading his legs. Sephiroth moved in first, leaning over Cloud from his right. A pale curtain of hair fell onto Cloud's bare chest as Sephiroth drew close, catching his lips in a hungry, open-mouthed kiss, and Cloud immediately responded with a quiet hum of approval as he kissed back, lifting his hands to tangle in Sephiroth's hair.

Watching for a moment, Leon frowned, listening to Cloud's pleased sighs and the wet sounds of their deepening kiss, embarrassed to find that even the sounds of their excitement was arousing him again. He glanced away just as the two men separated, Sephiroth lazily licking his lips. Both of them glanced at Leon before exchanging silent looks, and Cloud nodded, beginning to roll over.

The movement drew Leon's attention back to them, his heart racing when he realized that, despite Sephiroth's blatant possessiveness, he was still letting Leon have another turn with Cloud. It irked Leon to no end that he needed permission, but he knew that if he backed out now, he would probably lose any chance of keeping Cloud.

The blonde was now on his hands and knees, wicked wing angled out of the way, baring his lean, smooth backside for Leon. Determined not to let Sephiroth take this from him, Leon shot the man a pointed look as he moved in to claim Cloud, his hands cupping Cloud's hips as he rocked his hips forward, brushing against Cloud's waiting entrance, still wet from before. Cloud arched back, wordlessly reassuring Leon, and the brunette took a deep breath before pushing into his lover, feeling Sephiroth's gaze on them.

Cloud's fingers curled into the dark pelt as he gasped into the air, bowing his head and extending his wing. Griever dangling from his neck, Leon rolled his hips again, driving into Cloud's tight heat, reveling in the quiet grunts that escaped the blonde with each renewed thrust.

Lost in the delicious friction of their bodies rocking together, Leon was not prepared for the sudden touch of Sephiroth's fingernails raking gently down his sides. A shudder coursed through Leon, a harsh breath escaping him, and he drew back an elbow to push Sephiroth away. Sephiroth easily countered the movement, slipping an arm under Leon's and firmly caressing the taut muscles of Leon's abdomen with his hands. Leon tensed, wrapping his fingers around Sephiroth's wrist in an attempt to pull him away, but Sephiroth persisted, moving his body closer so that it pressed firmly up against Leon's backside.

A growl resounded inside of Leon, but the warning went unheeded, Sephiroth's lips brushing his ear as the brunette continued to thrust into Cloud. Silver hair tickled Leon's shoulder blades, sending pleasant tremors down his body, and the other hand that skimmed down the outside of his thigh heated his blood even more, drawing him deeper into the desire swelling within him and making him relax a little against Sephiroth, who welcomed the extra control. He slipped his palms along Leon's body, openly studying it, brushing and testing sensitive areas, chuckling into Leon's ear whenever Leon's body gave a noticeable shiver.

"Ticklish?"

Leon swallowed against his hoarse throat, letting go of Sephiroth to clutch at Cloud's hips again, an unfamiliar but exciting kind of desperation taking hold of him with Sephiroth's talented hands exploring places he had no idea could feel so good. Cloud moaned beneath him, muscles clenching around the erection inside of him, and Leon knew he had hit that knot deep inside of Cloud. He plunged deep and aimed for it again, feeling Sephiroth's own arousal pressing against him, warm lips and tongue brushing the line of his neck. As Leon drove hard into the blonde, Sephiroth's hips followed, grinding into him, the harsh friction heightening the thrill of their movement.

Leon felt a hand brush aside his wet hair, Sephiroth's mouth moving in taste the skin behind Leon's ear, issuing a definite gasp from the brunette. An amused chuckle rumbled inside of Sephiroth, his breath cool against Leon's damp skin, and he firmly squeezed Leon's hip in encouragement.

Drawing in a shaky breath, Leon pushed into Cloud, making Cloud pant each time he pierced that sweet spot, continuing his powerful thrusts until Cloud reached the pinnacle of pleasure. The younger man came fast with an abrupt cry, spilling onto the fur pelt, burying his face into the soft hide as he heaved for breath, sweat glistening on his back as his shoulders shook. His wing fell lethargically at his side, giving an occasional slight incline.

Before Leon could continue his pace to reach his own climax, Sephiroth suddenly pulled at his hips, tugging him out of Cloud's body. Leon uttered an annoyed sound of confusion, turning to glare at Sephiroth, but the man firmly held onto his hips, moving him away from Cloud and pushing him onto the ground, flipping him. Growing angry, Leon started to sit up, gray eyes heated and intense, but Sephiroth was already there, shoving him back onto the floor, pressing his hands against Leon's shoulders and smirking down at him.

Leon's eyes widened a fraction, his eyebrows drawing together with livid disbelief. "What are you—" he began to growl, but Sephiroth shut him up with a demanding kiss, thoroughly ravaging Leon's mouth for a few long seconds. Leon's hands pushed firmly against his arms and his raised a knee to push Sephiroth off, a bold sign of defiance, but he didn't deny the invigorating feeling of Sephiroth's fingers squeezing his nipples. Groaning openly into Sephiroth's mouth, Leon began to lower his leg, his erection pressing painfully against Sephiroth's stomach.

But Sephiroth caught his leg, catching an arm under it and lifting it again, spreading Leon's body. He pulled out of the kiss with vainglorious look, staring down into Leon's flushed, undeniably aroused expression. That didn't stop Leon from glaring back, his fingers digging hard into Sephiroth's arms.

Sephiroth leaned in, silver hair trailing along Leon's body as he lowered his mouth, hotly whispering into Leon's ear. "Do you want to know why I am having my turn with you?" he asked in a low, fierce tone. Leon didn't reply, the sound of Sephiroth's voice so incensed turning him on even more. Sephiroth continued, words laced with amusement. "Because I know all of Cloud," he said as he began to pull away. "It's Squall's turn." His lips curled into a cruel little smirk, his strong arm pulling Leon's legs open further.

Black feathers glistening in the dim light, Sephiroth stretched his wing out behind him as he positioned himself between Leon's legs, watching the brunette's dark gaze fill with a mix of fury, desire, and fear. He plunged into Leon's body, giving a gratified murmur, his green eyes sharpening with lust as he pushed in to the hilt.

Leon's lifted leg bent around Sephiroth's arm, a husky sound escaping Leon at the feeling of being completely filled, Sephiroth's hot erection pulsing inside of him and making him shiver in anticipation. He pressed his head against the floor, body tensing as Sephiroth began to move, pulling out before ramming back in, deep and thorough. Leon gritted his teeth, holding in a grunt, face filled with intense concentration as Sephiroth leaned over him, lifting his legs in a silent command. Obeying, Leon hooked his legs over Sephiroth's hips, allowing him to arch over Leon with ease, his silver hair spilled around their joined bodies. His obsidian wing gave a strong flap as he drove into Leon's body with long, powerful thrusts, the friction of their bodies issuing soft wet sounds into the air. Leon's toes curled behind Sephiroth, his legs clamping around Sephiroth's waist as the man's hands found his shoulders, using the support to press his entire weight into his momentum, pushing hard into Leon.

Cloud, drawn in by the intensity of their union, crawled up to Leon's side, knees brushing Leon's arm as he moved in to steal Sephiroth's lips, twisting a hand in that gorgeous hair. Sephiroth eagerly accepted the kiss, brushing tongues with Cloud and delighting in the stifled groans coming from Leon below them. The blonde lifted his other hand, stroking up Sephiroth's smooth back to the base of his wing, kneading purposefully there, pleased at the immediate reaction that followed.

A definite shudder moved through Sephiroth, his wing giving a sharp wave, and he suddenly bucked violently into Leon, stabbing that knot of nerves inside of him. Leon threw his head back, releasing an erotic cry, surprising all of them. Cloud pulled out of the kiss to admire the look of pure bliss on Leon's face. He slipped his hand free from Sephiroth's hair and leaned in, meeting Leon's mouth with a passionate kiss, his fingers reaching out to wrap around Leon's straining erection. A muffled groan escaped into their connected mouths as Leon pushed into Cloud's hand, almost immediately spilling into it.

But Sephiroth wasn't finished.

Before Leon could relax against the floor, Sephiroth pulled out of him and lifted one of his knees again, pushing Leon onto his side and spreading his body. Leon raised his flushed face, meeting Sephiroth's eyes with an intense look, but Sephiroth merely smirked, holding Leon's leg over his shoulder as he straddled the leg now resting on the floor, settling between Leon's legs from the side. Curious and confused at the change of position, Leon started to rise onto his elbows, but Sephiroth chose that moment to thrust into him.

"N-nngh—"

Leon clamped his hands around Cloud's arm, who was still sitting beside him, blue eyes glimmering with amusement. Sephiroth sank in deep, humming at the sheer heat of Leon's body. He slowly began rolling his hips against the inside of Leon's thigh, pushing into him and creating thrilling new friction, the angle of penetration sharp and exquisite.

"Nnn... nn...."

Cloud studied Leon's lewd expression, and the way his gray eyes could hardly stay open, his brows drawn together and furrowing his scar. His dark hair was dripping with sweat, hugging his neck, a few strands clinging to his cheeks. Chest rising and falling quickly in a desperate attempt to catch up with his racing heart, Leon rested his cheek against Cloud's thigh, panting heatedly and giving small pleasured sounds as Sephiroth's rhythm began to hasten, the older man finally nearing his peak.

Sephiroth caressed along Leon's lifted leg, brushing his cheek against the feverish skin, feeling the muscles tense under his touches. He bowed his head, licking his lips and tasting perspiration, his silver hair catching on Leon's sweat-slicked limbs. He pushed harder, hearing Leon's raw gasp, body tensing around him, and the encompassing tightness sent a fine tremor through Sephiroth, elation swelling as the building pressure within him finally broke free. As he climaxed, he gave a final, violent plunge into Leon's body and emptied into him, listening to the man's groan segue into his own.

He lingered there for a long moment, drawing in long breaths to calm himself, euphoria washing through him and leaving him feeling weary and lightheaded. When he was done collecting himself, he released Leon's leg, letting it drop to the floor. The brunette remained slumped on his side, looking completely sated and boneless, gray eyes still dark but soft with satisfaction.

Cloud met Sephiroth's gaze and they exchanged knowing looks before Cloud moved to lay next to Leon, Sephiroth settling with them. After a few minutes, a restful silence was stretched amongst them, each of them spent and content and comfortable, bodies pressed together and legs tangled, wings relaxed on the floor.

Not a word was spoken, sleep claiming Leon first, his face tucked against his own arm, hand loosely clutching the fur hide beneath him. Cloud quietly traced the scar on his face with a delicate fingertip, watching a lock of Leon's hair fall into his closed eyes. When he was asleep like this, peaceful with no masks in place, he seemed almost vulnerable.

With quiet sighs, Sephiroth and Cloud shifted closer and watched each other the curve of Leon's shoulder, their silent gazes speaking volumes so that their words did not have to.

Tomorrow, they said. Tomorrow they would decide their fates.

For now, they would sleep.

Cloud gave a small nod, forming a faint smile as Sephiroth's hand rested on his hip, a touch of sunshine that kept his dreams light and peaceful.

-o-o-

When Leon woke the next morning, he couldn't believe he felt so... cozy. Feeling completely at ease, he drew in a soft breath, shifting slightly against the warmth pressed around him. Something velvety was touching his bare hip, creating a slightly ticklish feeling. He cracked an eye open and lifted his head to find out what it was.

Sephiroth and Cloud's wings were draped over his body, their tips gently stroking each other, and one of Sephiroth's feathers was what was caressing Leon's skin. Sephiroth had an arm around Leon, his hand curled at Cloud's waist, and Cloud's arm was stretched across Leon's chest, his hand resting on Sephiroth's stomach.

The events of last night hitting Leon, he abruptly sat up, extreme awkwardness washing through him. His sudden movement woke the other two men up, Cloud stretching languidly at Leon's side, nuzzling closer, face brushing against his hip. Leon glanced down, noticing Sephiroth's slit stare, green eyes intently watching his reaction as a sleepy smirk pulled at his lips.

Leon looked away, his breath catching slightly when he felt Cloud beginning to breathe dreamy kisses against the bare skin of his hip, a warm hand reaching up, finding his stomach and stroking along his abs.

Tensing at the affection, Leon swallowed and pulled away, shakily getting to his feet to find his pants.

"Where are you going?" Sephiroth murmured behind him, sounding pleased.

"The bath," Leon muttered back, and then paused, remembering something. Feeling a bit regretful, he said, "And then... back to Riku."

Sephiroth gave an acknowledging hum and started to sit up, black wing folding behind him.

"We will talk there, then."

He lifted his hands, drawing his hair behind him, looking up to meet Leon's face. The expression Sephiroth gave him this time was deeply meaningful, and it made Leon hesitate as he waited for Sephiroth to speak.

"What?"

Sephiroth's smirk spread a little knowingly. "Last night," he said, inclining his head to study Leon carefully. "Cloud and I weren't your first, were we?"

Leon frowned, not sure what Sephiroth was hinting at, but when the man said nothing more, Leon turned away, pulling his pants on.

"Whatever."

It wasn't until a few days later, after the revelations to come, that Leon understood what the other man had actually meant.

Sephiroth had known.