[b]Full Name[/b] Cloud Strife [b]Occupation[/b] Mercenary, Salesman [b]Other Aliases[/b] Spiky, ex-SOLDIER [b]Gender[/b] Male [b]Race[/b] Human (infused with Jenova cells and mako energy) [b]Birthplace[/b] Nibelheim; Gaia (Final Fantasy VII planet) [b]Eyes[/b] Blue [b]Height[/b] 5' 8" [b]Weight[/b] Unknown [b]Appearance[/b] Cloud has a slim yet athletic build with spiky blond hair and blue-eyes. They exude an eerie glow, a trademark that all SOLDIER members share, which is commonly known as the Mark of SOLDIER. He wears a high-collared vest that zips up, and a long black covering that veils his left arm. It was once used to hide his geostigma, but later cured through Aeris's intervention. To this day, he continues to don the sleeve for unknown reasons. Along with his vest he's fitted with two leather gloves. The one on his right assumes a third of his forearm. He also has a harness that's able to seat the fusion swords individually. There are multiple buckles linked to his harness and waist-worn cloak. The mythological wolf Fenrir is an insignia seen both on his left pauldron and earring. Black pants with matching boots completes the "Cloudy Wolf" attire. [b]History[/b] Cloud is an ex-SOLDIER who has long since conquered his inner demons. Saving Gaia from the harbinger of destruction, Sephiroth. Now living a life of normalcy, he takes an entreprenuerial direction that's unlike his trade as a mercenary. With childhood friend/love interest Tifa Lockhart as his partner, they form a delivery service called "Strife Delivery" in Midgar Edge, a new metropolis built on the outskirts of Midgar. He personally dispatch cellphones all over Gaia to make a living. Also with Tifa, he's a caretaker of an orphan named Denzel, a 7-year-old boy who lost his parents during the Sector 7 mayhem. Barret Wallace, leader of the rebel group AVALANCHE and oiler, lives with Cloud and Tifa along with Marlene Wallace (Barret's adopted daughter). [b]Weapon[/b] The First Tsurugi (First Ken; Fusion Swords; First Sword) is a large weapon comprised of six detachable swords. The mainblade (pen name First Tsurugi) is a double-sided sword with an intricate handguard that interlock all other components. It has a long red hilt, a length of blade with a sameself yet thinner ending point. It also has two forms it undergoes: Normal and Battle Mode. In Normal Mode, there are no swords attached, and acts like a standard broadsword. Battle Mode is when both sides of the sword are widen, exposing the inner workings of the mainblade. Its complex design resembles that of the Apocalypse, one of Cloud's usable weapons in Final Fantasy VII. Next, the impact blade is a sword constructed with a hollow center, allowing for a stronger blow when used. Having a red double-hilt assuming one-third of its length, its V-shaped backside snugly covers the front of the mainblade when assembled. This connection gives the First Tsurugi a distinctive appearance, similar to the Buster Sword. The black-hilted back swords are twin weapons, equal in length with serrated edges. When attached, they cover the back end of the mainblade to serve as extra mass. Lastly, there are two dagger-like swords known as switchblades. They have a gear-like mechanism between the hilt that folds like arms. Both connect to the sides of the mainblade when complete. [b]Armor[/b] Left shoulder guard [b]Abilities[/b] Cloud's extraordinary abilities stems from a creature called Jenova. After the Nibelheim incident, he was administered to the JENOVA Project; an experiment that produces a class of superhumans known as SOLDIER. Because of it, he was given incredible endurance, speed, reflexes, strength and a high threshold for pain. Cloud is also able to summon a force known as Spirit Energy at will. A metaphysical substance, known as mako, was injected into his body during his infantry days. Larger quantities of mako was pumped into him via JENOVA Project. Through the Jenova cells, it has given him the talent of energy manipulation. He often uses this skill to enhance his swordplay, or create other unique arts. [hider=Special Techniques] Braver - A single attack in which Cloud leaps into the air and descends with a powerful slash. Another version is when Cloud propels himself forward like a darting arrow, ending off the assault in classic Braver fashion. Cross-slash - Cloud infuses his sword with Spirit Energy as it gives off an entrancing glow. Afterwards, he executes a strong succession of three hits, sending paralyzing bursts of energy upon the target. Blade Beam - Cloud saturates the First Tsurugi with Spirit Energy before performing a downward strike. During this action, the energy is launched and forms into a shape of a crest. Once this beam of energy deals damage, it can split into smaller versions of itself amongst a group of enemies. The ex-SOLDIER is also able to distribute numerable blasts with a stroke. Climhazzard - This is an attack in which Cloud darts and impales the target with his sword. After the fierce lunge, he jumps upward, splitting the target in two. Meteorain - Cloud summons five meteors from his sword as they rocket into the sky. Thereafter, these twenty-meter, diametric enflamed rock masses cascade upon his opposition. Finishing Touch - An art in which the ex-SOLDIER catches his opponent in a whirlwind assault. He spiral upwards in a complex series of slashes, carrying his adversary into the air as the attack climaxes a heavy hit. Another version is when Cloud uses spirit energy to twist the air around him. With his sword held behind him, the ex-SOLDIER anticipates an attack. And just before the opponent lands a blow, the winding current burst outwardly, stopping the attacker for a brief moment. He then launches a powerful strike that sends the opposition reeling. Omnislash - Cloud exhibits the pinnacle of his swordsmanship through a rapid chain of strikes. Adding up to a round number of fifteen hits.[/hider] [hider=Additional Techniques (original)] These attacks are non-canon but still true to the character. First, Second and Final Gleamer are modes in which Cloud uses to perform certain attacks. The terms first, second and final are appellations that refers to Cloud's numerical sword usage. "Gleamer" describes the brand(s) being used as a conduit for channeled energy. For example, any technique that's under the rule of one sword are known as First Gleamer techniques. Second Gleamer are techniques that require two swords to perform an art. Final Gleamer requires three swords or more to convey an attack. [hider=First Gleamer Techniques] Whirl Release (also known as Gyro Burst) is a move which involves a 360° rotation performed by the ex-SOLDIER. With the First Tsurugi and a burst of energy, Kuraudo is able to slash any nearby opponent(s) or object(s). The force also repels those within range of the outburst (2x the length of the First Tsurugi). *This attack can also be used in Second Gleamer* Grand Impact is an explosive attack in which Cloud or a sword descends from the high heavens. Once he or the independent weapon makes contact, it unleashes a mighty shockwave (a circumferential rule of 20 ft.). A force, disruptive energy, that ejects those present at the point of impact. *This attack can also be used in Second and Final Gleamer* Angel Killer or Seraphim Killer is an attack that relies on precision. Cloud strikes his target when an opening has been spotted. If successful, a thin streak of energy is etched upon the foe as Kuraudo sails off to a safe distance. Moments later, the strip of energy discharges and engulfs the target. The finish version of Seraphim Killer is when Cloud lays a volley of bolting strikes on the target. Dashing to and from the foe about six times before the attack ends. Rush Blade is a technique that allows Cloud to bring fierce strings of attacks upon the offender. Firstly, he invests a flow of Spirit Energy as it travels throughout his body like dancing lightning. Then, with the power coursing throughout the First Tsurugi, a forceful slash sends his opponent to a direction of his choosing. Kuraudo immediately follows through with one whopping blow after another (the process repeats itself about five times). This describes the "rushing" effect after each successful hit. Materia Cutter is a strike that splits his target in two. When used a flash of light, namely Spirit Energy, emerges as Cloud strikes his opponent. It is used to enhance the cutting power of the First Tsurugi. *This attack can also be used in Second Gleamer* The Heavenly Phase Strike is a technique with two ways of execution. One is done with First Tsurugi swinging upwards, and the other is performed downwards. Respectively, both are called ascent and decent in the manner of their motion. Starting off with a deflective strike that is guided circularly. This is meaning to repel the opponent's initial attack with precision. It creates an opening for Cloud to continue onward with a mako-infused blow. Enemy Splitter or Fiend Buster, the First Tsurugi is sent into a spirit energy-based rotation. Cloud throws the sword at his target as it whirls about. Like a buzzsaw, it can tear through virtually anything in its path. The technique also has a special effect called "pulse". This entails a high revolution, causing the sword to spin with surreal speed and sends out an abrupt shockwave. It lasts for a fraction of a second, expanding to such lengths that's half of the First Tsurugi. *This attack can also be used in Second and Final Gleamer*[/hider] [hider=Second Gleamer Techniques] Drill Edge or Driving Force--like Rush Blade--is a high performance technique. With the use of two swords, Cloud cloaks himself with Spirit Energy and spins at a high rate. Like a drill, he is able bore his way through any obstacle. Cross Counter is a technique in which Cloud anticipates an attack, and quickly enforces one of his own. When both swords are crossed like an "X", Cloud repels the attacker rather forcefully. Secondly, without hesitation, Cloud unloads a deadly sequence of spirit-infused slashes. Arc Blast is essentially Blade Beam done with two swords. But there are two levels of execution. First, the swords can be used simultaneously to produce a conjoined crest of energy, or two independent beams. Unlike Blade Beam, this technique doesn't diffuse into multiple waves of energy upon hitting a target.[/hider] [hider=Final Gleamer Techniques] Silver Lining is a technique that involves the entire tsurugi collection. Cloud channels his energy upon the First Tsurugi. Then, the swords separate and encompass Cloud. It creates a bastion of revolving swords, ripping through anything in its path. Kuraudo can also reassemble the First Tsurugi after each rushing blow. Zipping to and fro' in a rapid succession of six hits.[/hider][/hider] [hider=Miscellaneous Techniques] These are techniques that plays off Cloud as a character. A unique spin on what he can do within his own power, and relations he has with other characters. [i]Example:[/i] Say for instance he summons Barret with his cellphone. They team uo to unleash an assault upon their foes called Gunning Edge. Because he knows Barret, he has access to a cellphone because of his job, and they collaborate an attack using their weapon, this is using aspects of Cloud to create something true to him. Now for the actual techniques. Eternal Bond - As the name implies, Cloud formed an unbreakable bond with Zack and Aeris, reaching wherever he may be. Because of their friendly disposition, the ex-SOLDIER is able to summon them to his aide. They materialize for a brief moment to assist their friend in need. For Zack, it's to volley the opponent with powerful strikes alongside Cloud. Aeris' role is to ward off an impending destruction that threatens her "bodyguard". *Can only be used once per match. Choose between Zack or Aeris as the ally. A five-turn limitation (ten posts).* Flight - Though not commonly used, a spiritually-enshrouded Cloud is able to fly. Mostly, this ability is used to execute techniques that require aerial mobility. False SOLDIER - The ex-SOLDIER creates a shadowlike replica, or replicas of himself with Spirit Energy. Once formed, Cloud can will the clone to attack his target in linear fashion. And if successful, the clone explodes upon impact, acting as a possible follow-up for Cloud. *Can be used up to six times. Acts independently when Mimetic Rising is active* Mimetic Rising - A scion of the calamity Jenova, Cloud harnesses her extraterrestrial strength to the fullest. The cellular awakening gives him energy perception as well as enhancing his overall performance. It adds bonuses to some of the techniques listed. In a near-death situation, the Jenova cells grants Cloud regeneration to heal his wounds for two turns. If he's also plagued with status ailments, the cells will cure and develop a resistance to said affliction(s). *Lasts for seven turns and requires eleven to recharge. Regen lasts for two turns and halves cooldown time (excluding this one)* [center][i]Mimetic Rising: Technique Enhancements Meteorain (the number of meteors boosts to 15) Finishing Touch (forms a monumental cyclone; can be used for defensive or offensive purposes) Whirl Release (the radial burst is 3x the length of the First Tsurugi) Grand Impact (the explosion can lift targets 40 ft into the air; radial blast of 20 ft) Fiend Buster (the pulse effect spans 2x the length of the First Tsurugi) Driving Force (small shots of Spirit Energy jumps from Cloud's spinning form) Arc Blast (has the same properties as Blade Beam) False SOLDIER (the clone(s) are able to move freely) Ultima Weapon (fills 25% of its reserves)[/i][/center] [hider=Ultima Weapon] The Ultima Weapon is an alias that denotes all of the fusion swords. Cloud uses his inner strength, Spirit Energy, to influence a change upon the First Tsurugi. His spiritual energy fully crystallizes the six-piece sword. It has a transparent body, high durability and becomes opalescent when filled with energy. The handguard is redesigned with extra facets and expand upon the Battle Mode feature. Similar to the mainblade, the center of the Ultima Weapon opens up, revealing a labyrinth of railed crystals. These fine mechanisms draws in energy particles, converting it to become the [i]Ultimate Energy[/i]. It's the sword's own form of power which is stored for later purposes. The two back blades, switchblades and impact blade have one inch, concaved vents at their base. And like their motherly sword, they also absorb energy through their maws of railed crystals. Individually, each sword can osmose a little over 4% (4.16) of energy from an onset. A fully assembled Ultima Weapon drinks in roughly 25% (24.96) of energy in a battle setting. In an offhand situation, the stored energy can be transferred from one auxiliary sword to another. This enables Cloud to transform a fusion sword, if left unchanged, into the Ultima Weapon. These brands can also convey their hoarded energy into the mainblade when assembled. Once it reaches full power, the assimilation will cease. When all of its energy is exhausted, whether the sword is partially or completely charged, the Ultima Weapon reverts to the First Tsurugi. Gaining energy from an opponent's attack is not the Ultima Weapon's lone avenue. If left uninterrupted, it can slowly acquire what it needs from a distance. Over time, a single cryst sword can obtain a quarter of its power in a span of eleven posts. But with more swords placed at various spots, the faster the Ultima Weapon reaches its completion. *Can be used twice per match. Requires five turns before each usage.* [hider=Ultimate Energy/Absorption List & Rate] [b]Ultimate Energy[/b] As the name suggests, it is the culmination of multiple energies converged into one. Not only it's incredibly powerful, but also versatile. The Ultimate Energy can be fashioned into any array of energy types. From being intense flames, piercing cold, gusts of wind, sonic vibrations, etc; the possibilities are nearly endless. Though in its condensed form, the Ultimate Energy is crystal-like and aurorean in color. The Ultima Weapon creates UE by absorbing energy or energies through its vents. While inside, dozens of small mechanisms called railed crystals purifies the energies to become a singularity. All of the traits of the energy types are retained, and new ones are produced. This grants Cloud many ways to apply the UE in battle. [center][i]Ultima Weapon Absorption List Psionic energy Metaphysical/Spiritual energy Nature energy (elemental included) Magical/Non-elemental energy Absorption Rate - Number of Swords/Posts (if left in another location undisturbed) Examples: 4% - 1 sword (20%) 9 posts (including both players) 8% - 2 swords (40%) 9 posts (including both players) 12% - 3 swords (60%) 9 posts (including both players) 17% - 4 swords (80%) 9 posts (including both players) 21% - 5 swords (100%) 9 posts (including both players) 25% - 6 swords (100%) 7 posts (including both players)[/i][/center][/hider][/hider] [hider= UW's Passive Abilities] Other than absorbing and converting energy, the Ultima Weapon has other innate abilities. One of which is warping from one location to another, depending on the distance between Cloud and the UW. He can either warp himself to the sword(s) or vice versa. The other faculty is sight extension, seeing his surroundings through the UW's perspective. These achievements are made through the link it shares with Cloud: his spirit.[/hider] [hider=Ultima Weapon Techniques] Ultimakinesis [25% consumption rate] - Through the use of Ultimate Energy, Cloud can create and control any energy form. He's able to isolate a desired characteristic from the UE, such as fire for example, and produce a technique with [i](x)[/i] energy ability. Ultimakinesis lasts for five turns and can be stacked upon one another. This means Cloud can have up to four [i]kineses[/i] at once. Combining multiple kineses may result a newer kinesis being birthed. *Ultimakinesis is usable during Cryst Defense mode but shortens its duration by 25%. Kineses cannot be stacked in Cryst Defense.* Cryst Defense [100% consumption rate] - This is the strongest technique within the UW's repertoire. Cloud unloads the Ultimate Energy upon himself to become its entity. Physically, he bears no radical changes except for the weapon he wields. The First Tsurugi is back to base form as just the mainblade . The other five auxiliary swords revolves around Cloud, though they're fully translucent. They are also engulfed in Ultimate Energy, making them ghostly in appearance. These spectral weapons protect Cloud from any onset; bullets, swords, spells, etc. As well as being a defensive boon, all of the mode's exclusive attacks can be used without cost of UE. Cryst Defense grants Cloud unlimited handle to any of its intrinsic abilities. The only downside to Cryst Defense is that it runs on a timer. After every turn, 10% of UE (out of 100%) is taken away. Once it reaches zero, Cryst Defense mode will end. [hider=Cryst Defense Techniques] Latticed Pillar - This particular technique can be done as a single hit, or as a combo finisher. Cloud uses Ultimate Energy to deliver a sparkling and explosive blow with his weapon(s). A great pillar of light erupts upon impact from each sword. Adamant Discharge - When colliding with matter, such as solid ground, Ultimate Energy is released. It temporarily crystallizes whatever the auxiliary sword(s) comes into contact with (besides its wielder). The condensed energy sprouts out as large crystal spikes from said target(s). Diamond Band - The five auxiliary swords encircling Cloud spins rapidly. Like a ring, a shockwave of Ultimate Energy spreads throughout the battlefield at his behest. Clear Ruin - Fading Quartz [Usable during Cryst Defense] - Cloud is able to teleport on a much larger scale. He can warp to any desired distance as long as Cryst Defense is active. This does not require the swords to be used as a marker to warp. [/hider][/hider][/hider] [b]Limitations[/b] Although he has the Jenova cells and a mako-enhanced body, Cloud is still human. He can be damaged like any normal person, but his tolerance is higher. Cloud's lack of diversity is probably his main weakness. He has only his swordsmanship and the ability to perform spirit-based techniques to rely on. Most of his moves (Special and Additional techniques) requires two turns be used, and a two-turn cooldown before it can be used again. As for his Miscellaneous techniques, most of them are available to Cloud only one time. For example, Eternal Bond allows Zack or Aerith to help Cloud. Only one can be chosen and used for a specific number of turns. Once that period is over, Eternal Bond can't be used again regardless of the selection. The Ultima Weapon is crafted to obtain power from Cloud's opponent. Although achieving its full strength is nearly an impossible feat. Mainly because it's unable to acquire the energy it needs to become complete. If his chances are favorable and the Ultima Weapon reaches totality, Cloud can use Cryst Defense or Ultimakinesis. Both techniques have their own set of limitations.