Signs of a Complicit Relationship - PART III: Completing Each Others Missing Pieces [RE SPOILERS] 

I just want to say that Part III is actually the main reason I created these vids. The next part is just more on the developers intent and is the last part of the series. This all started with a zerith/cloti fan who I thought I was having a fun and logical conversation with. Until it turned sideways and they started saying Clerith was a toxic relationship (please note this is not a view of the entire fandom but only to these select fans). Aerith they say was manipulative (that's how they interpret her trying to bring out Cloud's true character) and abusive (that's how they interpret her teasing him) and that Cloud is mean to her and could not care less if other people are mean to her as well stemming from his annoyance of her character. This baffled me really hard. For someone to interpret Cloud and Aerith's interactions this way shocked me to the core. I know there is no point trying to convince those people of the truth. They probably want to believe it. But to some people who might be starting and those who are confused and have not made up their minds yet, I thought I would do this video to showcase how beautiful Cloud and Aerith's relationship really is. Thanks a lot for your support guys!

Another thing I noticed is that in sector 7, Tifa is very much liked by everyone and everyone seems protective/flirtatious with her but those same people were pretty unwelcoming to Cloud (ie. Marle). Heck, I wouldn’t want to be nice if someone said those comments to me! In comparison to Sector 5, Aerith is also well liked but everyone trusts her and her judgement as well. So when she brings Cloud around, she not only introduces him/shows him off a little but everyone just automatically trusts him because they trust her. They were more respectful of him and we all know respect goes both ways... (and I think that’s why, when left to his own devices, Cloud was able to respond appropriately and help and his walls start breaking down. When he’s usually defensive). His side quests in sector 5 are also meaningful to the people he’s helping. Which is different from Sector 7 which were just odd jobs

People who choose Tifa chose her because THEY like her. People who choose Aerith chose her because CLOUD likes her.

The problem with Cloti fans is that they use the excuse that “cloud and Tifa are childhood friends” just to ship them, when in fact All who played the original knows they weren’t childhood friends at all, They were just neighbors, Tifa was the popular Girl who caught all the boys attention while Cloud was treated like an outcast, I honestly don’t get how anyone who would view them as Childhood friends

I ship clerith because of how much a positive person she is in clouds life. She makes him happy, she brings him out of his shell, she understands him, etc. Plus they just compliment each other so well. Where as tifa understands there is something wrong with cloud but doesnt know how to interact with cloud properly. It feels like shes trying to redeem a fake fantasy she has of her and cloud when they were kids, but in reality there wasnt much there.

Not sure if anyone noticed, but when Aerith joins Cloud in his battle against Sephiroth on Remake, she giggles when Cloud answers "not really" to her question "did you miss me?" She is so accustomed to his responses and knows how he is (the awkward and socially confused Cloud). However, the one time she teases him by saying "so you are worried about me too?" and he breaks character and says "of course I am" (dream sequence/resolution), I feel like it surprises her as she is not expecting Cloud to be so honest with his feelings. Her tone changes from the playful/light-hearted character to a somber/serious one. It would be incredible if Square Enix can build more on their relationship and show them being more open and honest about their true feelings in the Remake sequels.

From the moment Cloud falls to Aerith’s Church, all the way to Wall Market, it is nothing but Cloud & Aerith one-on-one. Beauty, fun, flirting, & flowers. Magnetism, electricity, and excitement. Soulmates reunited (the automatic trophy for the “Budding Bodyguard” chapter is “Reunion" - “Reunion Flower” in Japanese). Aerith’s Church & flower bed is beautiful. Cloud & Aerith poetically run through the breathtaking rooftops. Cloud saves Aerith from falling (holding her like a Prince holds his Princess). They pick flowers together at her house. Give high-fives in the tunnel. Share a date in the park. Fight in the battle arena. Cloud even dresses up as a girl. Aerith watches Cloud dance. The red dress. Fireworks. Magic. Chemistry. Love. The perfectly constructed romantic progression. Then, after ALL that, Cloud is obsessed with rescuing Aerith from Shinra HQ. Cloud has to constantly remind Tifa & Barret that finding Aerith is the #1 priority. He is her bodyguard, after-all. At the very end, Aerith is the one who confronts Sephiroth and asks everyone to join her in stopping him. Unlike Tifa, Aerith is the main storyline. Aerith propels the story forward with her Cetra heritage. Cloud x Aerith is literally given a dream scene where Cloud states he wants his OWN SAY on loving Aerith. The dream scene is also found in the credits (unlike the Tifa hug). By the time Cloud goes from Aerith’s Church, to Wall Market, to Shinra HQ, Tifa’s lackluster moments are long forgotten. Tifa is given filler scenes during the first few chapters. Her promise scene is muddied within Jessie’s side-mission. In-fact, everything Tifa gets is overshadowed by Jessie, and eventually forgotten after Aerith comes into the picture. As a Clerith, the Remake is more than anything I could have ever DREAMED of. Remember: In the dream scene Cloud disagrees with Aerith’s proposition that his feelings aren’t real & states he wants HIS OWN SAY on loving Aerith. After Aerith says Cloud’s love for her isn’t “real,” he completely disagrees with her. Cloud wants his own say on the matter. This is SE’s way of telling us the REAL Cloud loves Aerith. This is SE’s way of making it crystal clear that these are Cloud’s feelings; *NOT* Zack’s. Again - Cloud wants his OWN SAY on the matter. - In regards to Zerith, in the Remake Aerith states she must move FORWARD with her life. In the OG, Aerith said Zack & her were "never serious,” that her relationship with him is “in the past now,” and that Zack probably moved on because he’s a “real lady’s man.” The Remake confirms this to be true. Aerith wants to move FORWARD with her life. Plus, we know from the CxA Gold Saucer date that although Aerith initially liked Cloud because of Zack, she grows to like Cloud for Cloud. - The great flower debate: Aerith gives the flower to Cloud. Whether or not Cloud gives it to Tifa, it still initially represents the reunion between “lovers” Cloud & Aerith. Tifa has to inquire about the flower. Cloud doesn’t automatically give it to her without prompting. Later, when Cloud interacts with the flower, he still associates it with Aerith. Cloud doesn’t want to admit to Aerith that he gave the flower away. After going to Aerith’s house, which is filled with flowers, Tifa confronts Cloud about the origin of the flower (ie: Aerith). As if she knows Cloud’s heart is with Aerith. The automatic trophy for “Budding Bodyguard” is “Reunion” - “Reunion Flower” in Japanese. - Aerith brings Cloud’s happiness to the surface - he slowly starts to high-five her on the reg. In addition, while sleeping at Aerith’s house, Cloud is triggered into a real memory of his Mother telling him to have an “older” girlfriend. Between Cloud’s memory of his mother, and his desire to be playful with Aerith, we are witnessing Aerith evoking the real Cloud back to the surface. I mean, hell - Cloud is now willing to sit around and pick flowers for a living. With Aerith, that is, of course. Cloud even vows to rescue Aerith from Shinra HQ at “all costs” and wants his “own say” on if he is allowed to fall in love with Aerith: “Gradually, Aerith’s warm cheer begins to melt Cloud’s frosty exterior. It is the heroine, Aerith, who opens Cloud’s eyes, and helps bring him closer to understanding the mystery that is his past.” ~Square Enix - “Hollow” - Official FF7R song: “Smile bright Once more This time I will never let you go” “Hollow” also plays during Sector 5 (Aerith’s Sector). This is when Cloud & Aerith spend tons of one-on-one time together. I was wondering why I thought her Sector had the best new song in the game. Now it all makes sense ^.^

by mistake I landed on a cloti vid. they misunderstood and twisted what the devs said. could not believe what i was reading. the devs were clear when they told in an interview: cloud can't keep his distance with aerith, he doesn't act with her, like he does with jessie or with tifa, the acting towards aerith is quite different and quite meaningful.

I never really noticed those small conversations between them could show how much Cloud is changing because of Aerith, a sweet precious girl who keeps encouraging Cloud to be himself, and through that Cloud became more closer and comfortable with Aerith than Tifa , a childhood friend since he was little but never get to know the real side of him. With all the walls that Aerith broke through with her smile and kindness, you can clearly see Cloud is happier, talkative and more active than before, which makes me very shocked. The difference is obvious, telling us that they are meant to be with each other but there are people who still denying and unwilling to see.

WHAT HAPPENED TO PART IV??!?!?!?!?!??!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ITS BEEN 3 YEARS AND I'VE BEEN WAITING!!!!!!!!!!

I also wanted to say that the high five development was some of the best I've ever seen. It says so much about them. It is a recurring image for a reason and done throughout the game. At first, we see tifa raise a high five at cloud instinctively after celebrating with Barret, knowing cloud she quickly realized he probably wouldn't go for that and let's off after that. Cloud knows him and tifa have this mutual understanding, so he doesn't feel bad. But with Aerith, he is afraid to show that side of himself. He even scoffs at her compliment about being a crane operator because at this point, I don't think he fully trusts her. But upon seeing her disappointment at him rejecting her, he makes a HUGE step outside of his comfort zone and goes for it. He realizes that maybe he can open up a bit, showing camaraderie is ok. They mess up, Aerith apologizes and understands that it did indeed take a lot for cloud to to do that, so she makes it her priority to make things right. They high five, and cloud trusts her. She won't make fun of him and accepts him. And as you said, all of this culminated after hell house. There's a reason they lingered on that shot. My favorite arc. The collapsed expressway music, the moments, so magical.

Cloud and Aerith suit each other so well, it’s as the though the developers created each character to compliment the other...oh wait. They were the first two characters created for the OG. Infact, I’ve read that the developers decided to create another female character (Tifa) much later to help the main character pick up the pieces after he lost his ‘love’. Before Advent Children, Cloud kept visiting the church where he first met Aerith again and again, without telling Tifa. It’s where he first encounters Denzel, and I’m guessing that is why Cloud has such a bond with the boy. I mean no disrespect to Tifa fans, but, as a couple, Cloud and Tifa have the chemistry of a couple on the verge of divorce. They are much better as friends. Cloud and Aerith compliment each other so well. Notice the way Cloud allows his hand to be held by her? I hope and prey that there is a way for them to have a happy ending this time.

Gold saucer OG: Aerith: " Cloud...I want to meet you. Dream sequence remake: Aerith: "I'm really glad I met you Cloud." HMMMM?

I ship Clerith- I really love Cloti too but not in the same way as most Cloti shippers. Looking through the Cloti shippers opinions on youtube I realise most of them ship Cloti for Tifa- her devotion to Cloud, and her willingness to put aside everything for him. They ship Cloti because they want Tifa to have her happy ending, and to get the boy she cares for. As a Clerith shipper- I ship them for Cloud. Because I want Cloud to have his happy ending, and to get the girl he cares for. Both relationships are so wonderful in their own way (and tbh I really like them as a poly trio) but I think therein lies the main difference, if the person wants Cloud's happiness or Tifa's happiness (Aerith is happy either way, because she's that sort of true gem of a girl haha).

22:20 - I'd just like to point out, that when Aerith asks Cloud about Tifa he straight up rejects the notion there is anything to their relationship other than them being friends, but here when Tifa asks Cloud if there is anything more to it, he just makes an awkward noise, as if he is unsure himself or that he believes there is something more to it, but he's uncomfortable discussing it. In all honesty the dream sequence with Aerith puts all the cards on the table, Cloud is willing to do whatever it takes to help her, and like he said "I saved her, she saved me, round and round it goes." There are layers to this, they aren't just saving each other literally from outside threats, they're saving each other by filling in the gaps the other has. I'd love to hear other people's thoughts on this opinion of mine!

It takes a loner, to know another loner... Aerith had a rough childhood. It could just be her powers, her intuitions, that made her realised the real Cloud behind those layers. Tifa felt the same loneliness too, but only after the "friends" that she thought she had when she lost her mother, then later abandoned her. That event might have triggered her to realise what Cloud been through, so without her realising it, she too developed feelings for Cloud from the well incident that night. Tifa said so herself in her lifestream event recollection, that she had begun to think about Cloud, missing Cloud etc. But the way she found her way into Cloud (or rather, the way Cloud found his into hers) was accidental and sadder still... Consequential. She knew Cloud or thought she knew, entirely because of the string of events that happened. And that would likely stay hidden to her if that event never happened. Cloud might not say it aloud, but I am pretty sure he felt it, which is why in his heart he feels it is complicated between him and Tifa. He liked her, and she liked him. But not in the most direct way but due to how it unfolds. To put it bluntly, Cloud might even say Tifa made him her choice out of lack of option (but he won't, because he is a genuinely a nice guy). Again, Tifa said so herself, admitting she never knew Cloud "that close" prior to the Mt Nibel incident. So going back to Aerith, she had none of that drama with Cloud. Everything that happened between them happened naturally, and they responded to each other just as naturally as well. There is no "because of, therefore so". And certainly "No I wished, therefore you'll do it". I guess between the two, it is easy to tell apart which one is true love, while the other one is a consequential love at best. In our real life, if someone ever comes back to us and says, I never knew you were such a nice person then. I wish I had picked you,... That'd be Tifa-like. Aerith never once took advantage of Cloud's insecurity and dorkiness to make him like her. She just likes him the way he is and she has no issue showing it. Cloud HAD to fall in love with Aerith because she is the girl who sees him for him while actually wanting to keep him. Whereas, Tifa only started to see him as him only after she knew what it feels to be him. No hate to Tifa, honestly. Her mother passed away, she was lost and wanted companions. She was occupied in her own problem and could not have possibly been able to see through Cloud's. But really, that's her burden and not Cloud's. It's just sad that the unknowing Cloud who bore that burden until he grew up thinking that "he" was the problem. So poor Cloud, and poor Tifa. But such is fate, and they just don't have the right strings on each other. That's my thought on the two.

bruh.. what have you done to me, i dont even ship cloud with anyone... but now that ive seen this i can never not ship clerith. i mean, how could i have been so blind, they are made for each other.. T_T

4 years later and still no part 4 or Rebirth vids. I hope you're doing well. This series felt like the scene in Ratatouille where the critic is taken back to their childhood.

Im pretty sure this will get lost in the comments but i just want to voice out my concern. I see all these polls shipping or telling me that Tifa is the best female character in the Remake. I honestly dont mind... what i am scared of is the fact that the game developers just go with Cloti because the fans wanted it. But deep down the fact that they made Clerith somewhat adorable and sweet to each other give me the hope that they do want to give justice to Clerith fans. I hope whatever they have in mind to not change just because of the popularity polls

Also one thing pointed out by Briana Aerith's VA that everytime cloud does his PTSD thing Aerith with her upclose face on Cloud saying "are you ok" always pulls him back .. Just like what you pointed out when Aerith hold Cloud's hands that she calms everything in Cloud .. Also the chapter where they keep on Escorting each other first Cloud to Aerith's house then Aerith to Cloud going to sector 7 then Cloud wants to escort her back again like they don't want to be apart from each other which we all felt in our lives when we're in love .. Nice analysis and video however i still choose Aerith's dream scene in english it just hits harder hehe ..

People who don’t agree about cloud and aerith closeness and strong bond are being subjective, bc they prefer Tifa according to their own tastes instead of being in cloud’s steps. Their relationship in the game (OG, remake, even in AC) is way more deepened than with tifa who is no more than a close and dear friend. Cloud did not know Aerith for too long (1 day please, if you do understand Cloud, sure it’s quite impressive) and yet she became such an important person, for example when he had to rescue Tifa vs when it was Aerith, it was completely the opposite, his concern was so different, at the Wall Market even though Tifa was with a disgusting pervert, he sure took his time with Aerith, if I do remember well, never had he said “hurry up we have to save Tifa” but all the time was him being overprotective over Aerith, and when Aerith was kidnapped all his concern was about saving her, always saying “don’t forget why we are here” and when they rescued her his mission was only to have her protected nothing more, he did not even have time to smoothly talk to Tifa, nothing special happened between them. Moreover, there is this point that cloti fandom seems to blindly avoid : the resolution scenes, the one with Aerith is Cloud’s resolution, not Aerith, there’s so much to say about it, plus he’s being quite talkative for someone as quiet as him when it does involve her, he’s expressing shamelessly his true self, admitting his worries, and as we mainly play Cloud in the game this scene is what should really happen in the storyline, and it does follow what’s happening in the morning where he says she’s calling for him, plus when the resolution is with Tifa there is this wall between them, he speaks only a little as if they were not on the same wavelength and somehow it felt awkward

I've been watching your Clerith videos ad nauseam for the past couple of days, so allow me to dump a wall of text on the subject. I thought the relationship building between Cloud and Aerith, between their introduction at the church and their defeating the Hell House in Chapter 9, is the best stretch of relationship writing in the game. You just see them grow from indifference to acceptance and then to fondness and (perhaps - ok, definitely) love. By the time Cloud and Aerith hi-five in the Coliseum, you can tell that their relationship is at a different place from where it started. I was so deeply moved watching the two of them. Tifa gets no such luck, for faults that are both her own and those beyond her control. Her interactions with Cloud alone are way more diffuse. Home Sweet Slum is the main relationship-building period, but it ends when Tifa has to go off and celebrate with her Avalanche colleagues. The only other point they get alone time off the top of my head, pre-Chapter 15, is right after Cloud helped Jessie and her secret mission; rescuing Barret in the train system; when they have to go up to stop the plate from dropping on Sector 7; and briefly when Tifa pulled up Cloud atop Shinra HQ. Otherwise, she has to share time with third wheels. BUT even if the story structured Tifa's interactions with Cloud in the same way that they did with Aerith's, she still has to take some of the blame for her relationship with Cloud not going as smoothly. The reason why her time with Cloud was cut short in Sector 7 was because she caved in when Barret told Cloud to leave him and his colleagues be as they celebrate. You could see Tifa's face wince when she heard that, because she was ready to whip up another drink as a means to get him to stay a little longer. But she doesn't fight the decision and just went with the flow of her Avalanche colleagues. She didn't even ask Cloud to come see her once her business is concluded, to show that she really does care for him - only Jessie did that! That's how you split the difference in this scenario. Not helping matters is just how tightlipped she is with how she presents herself, of how she talks about herself and what she feels, and how she gives Cloud so little time to listen to her even when he is willing/eager to. I'm not asking her to confess her romantic feelings; that's hard to do even in the best of circumstances. But she could tell Cloud about that vision she had of Marlene in the train graveyard, about how she worries for Marlene's mental wellbeing given the time she spent away from Barret. But she says it's nothing. She makes an off-handed comment in Chapter 14 about how much she wanted to thank Jessie and Biggs for their work for Avalanche. Cloud tries to say something to comfort her, but she shuts him down just as fast (I'll expand on this point later). The only thing Tifa is really open about are her reservations about Avalanche's methods to effect major change, and her reluctance/squeamishness in going through these plans herself. And if you get her resolution scene like I did, she opens up about how she is deeply shaken by losing her friends and the life she led. The only time she (kind of) was able to get Cloud to open up was when she asked him about his life after leaving the village, but even then he hesitates to divulge some details on the subject. Otherwise, Tifa is vague/evasive about herself and her feelings, especially when it comes to her story of moving into Sector 7 and making a living for herself there. And therefore, more often than not, Cloud can emulate that closed-off behaviour right back at Tifa. Not ratting out Jessie and her raid on a Shinra storehouse is understandable. But otherwise, he has a memory of Sephiroth in front of Tifa after the plate fall; he does not go on about it (contrast this with how he opens up a little bit more on the matter to Aerith in Sector 5). He has a painful memory of seeing Cowgirl Tifa losing it over Shinra. It might not be his memory, but he does remember it as a major failure on his part. He says it's nothing, and Tifa does not push him on it, despite his calling out HER name. If you're Tifa, aren't you even a LITTLE curious? (And if the game wants to keep these details a secret until a later release, which is fine, have Tifa insist that Cloud tell her what was on his mind before Heidigger comes into to interrupt them. There, a little show of concern/ship tease while conserving some key plot points!) This is why, when I put Cloud's and Tifa's moments together, I just don't get the sense that their relationship at the end of the Remake is all THAT different from when they first reunited in Sector 7 - EVEN IF you get her resolution scene. Collectively, they don't tell as coherent a story. Even after Tifa cried into Cloud's chest, I'm still VERY worried that they will run into the same communication problems that plagued them earlier in the game. So far, even as friends (and maybe something more), they can't seem to learn from their struggles to talk to one another more honestly. (By contrast, notice how the dialogue between Cloud and Aerith grows much more vulnerable and sincere over the course of their time together). And because they don't seem to learn, Cloud and Tifa will sadly repeat many of those "oh, it's nothing" moments that could have deepened their relationship had they spoke their minds more. And every time I hear something to the effect of "oh it's nothing" from Tifa to Cloud and vice versa, I respond with a "I thought you two were going to be closer than that..." And it's harder for me to find a point where I think "Oh, now THERE'S the moment where their relationship is in a better, different place". Though if I had to pick, it'd be Tifa's resolution scene. In the relationship writing between Cloud and Aerith, by contrast, I can easily think of 2 or 3 such turning points. The talk near the Sector 7 Gate, 'talking' to the flowers, the first hi-five, Aerith was waiting for Cloud so she can take him through the Collapsed Expressway, Cloud's resolution scene (when I get to it). And like I've said, the way the story strings these moments one after another gives the feeling of genuine, forward progress between Cloud and Aerith. (Another PS: The times that Cloud rescues Tifa from certain danger and vice versa in FF7R is dripping with ship tease, obviously, so I gobble them up like the person next to me. But do you ever wonder what happens to them when those moments don't come around as often? When they are forced to bond with one another by just sitting around and talking to each other about themselves, their feelings or each other? If Case of Tifa and Advent Children are any indication, it seems that those banal, everyday conversations can be struggles at best...and nightmares at worst. It's like Cloud and Tifa NEED to constantly save one another in combat/life-or-death situations to show just how much they care for each other. And if that sounds like an unhealthy way to keep a romance/relationship going, that's because it is. Consider this your deconstruction of the Rescue Romance trope.) Think of all the little (yet important) bits of their lives that Cloud and Aerith spilled to each other during their time together. "Is Tifa your girlfriend?" "the first guy I ever loved", picking flowers for the orphanage (and talking to them later), "Ever heard of Sephiroth?" "I had no war buddies" "Life was about training and battlefields" etc etc. Even just seeing Aerith interact with Turks, and her just knowing who they are, is such a major window into her life. And her less-than-impressed reaction to that life experience is similarly eye-opening. Tifa obviously shows Cloud a part of her everyday life in Sector 7 in Home Sweet Slums, but you never get the sense that it was an important part of what made her the person she was today. By contrast, you can somewhat understand how a life of loneliness and constant surveillance from the Turks shaped Aerith's outlook: Troubled, a little shaken and fatigued, but also resourceful, impish, compassionate and free-spirited in certain spots. Therefore, by the time Cloud is ready to get back to Sector 7, one wonders if he actually knows more about Aerith than he does Tifa - despite being around the former for only a day or so and the latter for years. (I joked to an internet friend that Tifa is the REAL mystery girl in FF7R, and I stand by that joke. Even after 30+ hours with her, I still have a very tentative grasp on her life, her upbringing, her underlying motivations, and so on. I don't know when/how/why she learned martial arts. I don't know how she became the primary mother figure to Marlene. Her relationship with Barret is obviously in a good place, but their past is only implied. What of her relationship with Wedge? Or Biggs? Or Jessie? When/where/how did she get those bartending skills? How did she make her way to Sector 7? Her reason to dislike Shinra is unclear, as someone who has no prior experience with FF7. Crisis Core something something?) The little details of life that Cloud and Aerith freely offered to one another are like trinkets, like tribute. They are indicators to the recipient that the giver believes in them, values them. Cloud and Aerith obviously don't give away EVERYTHING about their lives, but ceding those lesser details about themselves was one major way they built genuine trust and comfort between each other. They partially explains why Cloud emotionally opens up to Aerith at a level that Tifa can only fantasise. And they serve as the foundations, the staging ground, for further explorations of their true selves, for who they really are. For becoming soulmates in every sense of the word. I am already entranced with the Clerith sprouts, and I am soooo excited to see how they blossom in the future. YEH YEAH LONG TEXT WALL IM OBSESSED, OK?! LISTEN NO ONE IS HAPPY ABOUT IT

I've always felt like Aerith was able to crack Cloud open like an egg and she did that kindly and subconsciously (which the remake and your video prove once again to be true), while Tifa seemed like an angry mom, way too harsh and forceful with him, that's probably why her methods weren't working and she got the opposite result (especially if we think about AC), in Tifa's defense though I gotta say they made her a lot better in the remake even if she still has most of the same core problems she had in the OG.

As much as I like Tifa, I gotta be honest, I don’t really see her falling in love with Cloud at all. And what some CloTi fans fail to understand is of course the Zack Memories thing (ngl this has confused the hell out of me like a lot. XD), and the Claudia flashback, where she says a Older, and more mature girl. -Cloud - 21 -Tifa - 20 -Aerith - 22 (Also I was actually shocked when I found out Aerith is older then Cloud. I always thought she was younger. XD) Imo, they should just stay as friends. Yes Tifa is very important to Cloud, and a really good Friend to him, but they don’t fit as a couple to me. Although there is a bit of me that does ship CloTi, but not that much. They honestly feel more like Brother and Sister. Clerith is just adorable to me. I ship this so much. And the Remake made me love Aerith even more then I did before. And the Remake literally has a huge ton of hints that it’s canon. Which I do hope it is (even tho it’s pretty much confirmed that it is.). Since Cloud and Aerith deserve a life together in my opinion. And I pray that she does live in the next part of the remake. If she does, I’ll lose my shit. Cuz she is so adorable and she deserves to live a happy life after what she’s been through. (Same with Cloud and Tifa since they both also went through tough shit.) So yeah I really hope that Aerith lives, and she and Cloud possibly get married, and maybe have Cetra children. Like that would honestly be one of the best things I’d probably ever see in my life. XD

Wow I was a Cloti shipper, but this is converting me to Clerith... they just seem to “fit”...

According to Aerith's profile, because of her centra heritage, she can read hearts and she knows Cloud has feelings for her since the start. Aerith also likes Cloud but she knows she has a task to do with the planet. She loves Cloud and she doesn't want her task on the planet to burden him. She told Cloud not to fall in love with him because she doesn't want Cloud to be involved in the burden she already carries. But Cloud realizes this after his mind is back but it's too late because Aerith already died. According to Cloud, if he realizes this sooner Aerith would have been saved by him.

When Cloud talks to Tifa, it's like he is talking to his sister (loosen a bit). (Imagine you talk with your brother/sister). When Cloud talks to Aerith, it's like a teenage boy trying to act cool to impress the girl. (Imagine when you were a teenage boy, you talk something to impress the girl. Then, you just realize that you were saying something unrelated/awkward/absurd, deep in the heart "omg... wtf did i just say")

Ah Aerith. My empress, my muse, my shining star. Such a sweetheart.

Although Cloud likes to act cold and indifferent, he always listenes to Aerith profoundly. And he seems to appreciate the moments when Aerith shares her vulnerability with him. Such a precious relationship 🥰

I do wish Aerith will live in this Remake. Although we all know the relationship between Cloud and Aerith is a spiritual connection that transcends physical attraction, it still would be nice to see them get the happy ending that they deserves. For too long the Cloti fans has judged that their ship is the true pairing because Aerith's death removed her from the competition. Now I see that this Remake has made them worried because they see that an alive Aerith is a threat to their couple. I think it's time for Square Enix to shake things up in the fandom!

Used to be somewhat of a Cloti, but revisiting the story and your videos, I realized how Clerith is more coherent with how the characters play out. I do *so wish* that Aerith lives, this time. We've suffered enough in the OG, already.

Aerith held Cloud hand to calm him down was soooo cute, I keep smiling every time I see it. SE just made sure no one could miss this, the camera spin every angle possible just to show it 😂😂😂 Cloud immediately overcame his confusion just by her touch and seeing her face. You see, the camera created that impression that only Aerith was in Cloud’s view, just like she was his anchor, brought him back to reality, calmed the storm in his mind ❤️ Cloud felt lost the moment Aerith let go of his hand, you heard his “eh!” and his body quickly turned to follow her. Even though we couldn’t see his expression but I bet he looked like a lost puppy when she did that. Oh come on Cloud, how long did you intend to stay like that? 🤣🤣🤣 Aerith didn’t have to ask but Cloud told her about his problem right away “You don’t know Sephiroth, do you....” thing he hides from everybody but her 🥰🥰🥰 I watch the alternative scene if Tifa showed up first at the final battle with Sephiroth, Cloud asked “Ready to go?”, it was a casual way to ready your friend. With Aerith, he said “He’s tough”, another way of saying be careful or a warning, and for Aerith to replied “so what? Screw him” in a cheery voice is so sweet, again, she reassured and being supportive to Cloud in her own unique way 🌟🌟🌟

I noticed in battle sequences that cloud says “I’ll protect you” to aerith specifically and she’s the only one to respond even when tifa is there.

I'm glad I'm not the only one who didn't think Cloud was being a jerk about the thing with the graveyard key and that he was instead doing it to encourage the old man. You're the first person I saw who seems to agree with me on that. Also, your videos gave me the push I needed to let go of the Cloud/Tifa ship and embrace that I totally root for Cloud/Aerith, even if that means I'm gonna end up heart broken in the end. Well, at least I can enjoy the ride. And maybe, just maybe, the remake will go a slightly different route. Even though I'm not sure whether I would really want that or not. (I'm way too attached to these fictional characters...^^")

This makes sense! Cloud is more honest with Aerith with his thoughts, opinions, feelings. He trusts her a lot. There's growth in their relationship from being someone they just met to someone they care for a lot! :-)

I am new in this world of ff7 and at first I thought tifa was cloud's girlfriend or her love interest. I started playing the game believing that their love story would be fabulous, since everyone talks From them. Then.... aerith appeared, and I did not know why his interactions with cloud seemed more beautiful, sincere and romantic, as if being together was something natural and not Something uncomfortable, I feel, aerith is able to bring out all the good things tha cloud hace inside, get him to have confidence to express his feelings and even make jokes, they are so perceptive of each other that I can avoid feeling they are the real couple, becouse they understand each other si well, just un one day!!. I love the chemistry between them. More than the chemistry he have with tifa, I know that cloud is interested in tifa, but for me that relationship is more Superficial.

Your observation skills and intuition are splendid! You have put my feelings into thoughts and reasons. We are lucky to have you on team Clerith! When you are so in sync with someone - it doesn't take long to feel connected with them. I always go by this: "You can meet someone for a day and feel like you have known each other your whole lives. You can be with someone for a lifetime not really ever knowing them." It's really about the emotional connection. That's why I love Aerith and Cloud so much because even after her death, he still feels the link between them.

When I was 14 I really liked Tifa, and clearly I wasn't the only one who liked her. I even found forums dedicated to her as if she were a perfect woman. Tifa's character has no value in itself but is defined from Cloud's (I dare say that her original concept is still "the friend of childhood of the protagonist "). She is a submissive and obedient character who chases the protagonist everywhere. The role of the protagonist is to make the player project in Cloud's character. That way you (player) know that no matter what you do, you will always have a girl with little clothing and a model body who chases you everywhere and says yes to everything. A very effective formula with teens but it is painfully obvious. I mean, in the OG what is Tifa's character arc? What is the difference between her character at the beginning and end of the story? And I mean her as an individual. Because Cloud, Barret, Cid, Aerith, Nanaki and even Reeve have an evolution in their characters (I'm not going to talk about Yuffie and Vincent). You see them at the beginning, you see them at the end and you can tell they went through an experience that changed their lives and made them grow. Tifa goes through mystical and traumatic experiences but SHE DOESN'T CHANGE IN THE WHOLE GAME. And don't tell me "at first she is somewhat shy with Cloud and in the end she takes the initiative to sleep with him" because that is not character development. I'm praying that in the next parts of Remake they will give her more value as an individual because a character from such an iconic game deserves so much more than just being a fetish bag to attract insecure teens

The scene with Cloud and Aerith when she is talking to the flowers is one of my favorites in the game. When he asks "What's so special about it?" the look she gives him, like she wants to say "Because I spent it with you" but she laughs it off to hide her sadness. But what really drives home the scene is when Cloud says "Learn to talk to her", it's such a huge contrast to his conversation with Barret at the beginning about hearing the planet and really shows how much he already cares about her. Like with Barret he still may not believe it but it feels like he wants to, for her. Looking forward to part IV if you decide to continue it!

They found each other, they both were lonely, how people can’t see that? Soulmates and they share a bond that goes beyond life and death, nothing against Tifa who was always with the other kids and Zack was a lady’s men

I am so excited for you to make your rebirth videos! Remake already had me shipping clerith, but rebirth had me going "clerith is the best romance in all fiction." I especially love how in rebirth, they let themselves be vulnerable with each other.

It makes me sick to my stomach to read how hateful some cloti shippers are towards clerith fans. I truly love Cloud and Aerith together and I hope that there will be at least multiple endings or decisions so we can finally see these two confessing their love or kiss. You made me so happy with your videos about Clerith thank you so much !

First off, I wouldn't worry about those toxic zerith/cloti fans. Perhaps they had some insecurities about the legitimate points you brought up to them in your discussion with them (as you would have since this is important!). Once someone starts to realize that they may not be entirely certain of what they think they know, they will have a tendency to lash out. Whatever they said to you isn't important, I have watched your videos and I truly believe you do not make any false or misleading claims. All of your evidence and work are well-researched and sensitive to the characters in discussion. Cloud definitely feels affection for Aerith. Just wanted to say that. Secondly, I love how you noticed that Aerith is persistent and constantly tries again and again to restart dialogue and interaction with Cloud. I identify with Cloud, and a lot of the time while I'm trying to talk with someone I like I think to myself "man, I'm a screw up," or something that makes me doubt myself, and I stop trying to talk with them any further. So for someone like Aerith, who doesn't mind that Cloud doesn't always have the right thing to say or know what to do, her repeated attempts to be friendly and talk with Cloud do not go unappreciated. In fact, they matter very much to Cloud (or at least to me when someone is like that with me :) ). Great video, great job!

Just gotta say that these videos made me 100% more invested in my 2nd playthrough. As a new fan, on my first run, I was totally on board with Clerith. But then I went online where I basically only found people dismissing it (using lore beyond the remake as evidence). I felt pretty deflated, and felt like ignoring this ship made large swaths of the game meaningless or feel empty. (As an immediate solution, I went to kill some samurai in sekiro.) Then, I ran across these vids, which gave great insight into character behaviour and motivation. Made just about everything hit wayyyy harder on the second run. Wonderful job with these vids :D I'm invested again :)

Every kite (Aerith) requires a string (Cloud).

Don't mind idiots like that. They're just biased against Aerith. I honestly don't get Tifa and the obsession with her? I honestly think it's in the looks department because her character was never interesting to me both looks and personality. I think Aerith is way more beautiful when it comes to looks and her personality tops it off. I love it when she smiles at cloud and her laugh...I'll be destroyed if they do kill her off. I don't get it. Why can't cloud be happy with her this time? Let her live.

Just gonna put this here: In the end, Aerith chose to brave the vast, boundless, terrifying sky. For that is the place of Fair Winds and Endless Clouds.

"Be nice!" Uhh what? No seriously... Taking shit from someone who is being antagonistic for absolutely no reason and not firing back at them IS being nice! Tifa loses points for that one each time I see it, cause she blames Cloud instead of correcting Marle or simply not saying anything. What was he supposed to say? Was there a screw up with localization? I'll never understand that scene at all. Why does Marle assume they're even close to being a couple at all? They're friends and that's all! She needs to watch these videos. :D

No offense to people that prefer cloud with tifa, but Aerith and him are so obviously meant for each other. I'm honestly baffled sometimes that people argue otherwise. And dare I say it, i think it's because of her figure for a lot of folks. Not all, but for a lot I would say that's the case. Great vid once again

Hey, just wanted to expound upon a point I made in a thread below that I don't think has been made clearly before: Aerith connected with Cloud so quickly and easily not just beacuse of their pseudo-spiritual link (in the lifestream and all the inworld magic) surrounding each's journey, but also because both have had their personalities shaped by very similar experiences. . Both suffered abandonment from their peers in childhood, as well as being raised in a single parent environment and developed their own defense mechanisms to cope in their personalities - defenses which they both intuiitvely see right through in each other: * Aerith is impulsive and acts flighty, hiding from commitment and motivation behind a smile and silliness, generally avoinding serious or heavy words (except with Cloud). Aerith got along well with people until they got a glimpse of her Cetra side, so she suppressed that side of her. She is actually quite fatalistic in outlook but runs from that and her heritage by acting exceptionally ordinary, minimising what anyone would consider special about her. * Cloud is aloof and puts up a front of superiority to justify his being separated from others, which in turn drives his motivation to live up to the standard he sets for himself (or the heroes he worshipped, e.g. Sephiroth) even though he battles with internally with overwhelming shame for all his failures. He doesn't try to make friendships so that he can't be hurt, but will cling to any relationship he has with the few people who earned his respect/trust. * Both are reckless beyond bravery and willingly throw themselves into danger to the point of sacrifice; this is part an internal lack of self worth, and part attempt to avoid abandonment by others by initiating it first. . We see how, when together, these two completely circumvent these emotional defenses, which I think is a big part of their character design (and thus why the remake explored Cloud and Aerith's loneliness from childhood to where they are now even more than the OG). For example: * Cloud can't bring himself to push Aerith's silly affectations away, and actually makes an effort to sincerely reciprocate it. Aerith doesn't mock him for his awkwardness in doing so. * Aerith in turn doesn't push for Cloud to do more, to be better (as opposed to what Tifa does e.g. "Be nicer Cloud!") because she reads how hard he's pushing himself all the time. * Cloud engages in her banter willingly and doesn't treat Aerith's abilities or heritage as any different or special. He picks good naturedly on her inconsequential quirks instead. * Aerith can tell he is genuinely caring but can't express it eloquently, focusing instead on his intentions instead of his delivery even in her teasing (e.g. their journey to the high-5). * Cloud is able to push Aerith to move forward and actually try and leave Midgar - and the shadow of Shinra and captivity. * Aerith is able to snap Cloud out of his brooding/silence and engage him in conversation. * Both are unwilling to let the other go off alone, recognizing each other's stubborness and lack of self preservation, but respect each other enough to not be hypocritical in acknowledgment of the same trait in themselves and work - fight - together. . All in all there's a lot going on beneath the surface of their interactions at a far more human level which makes for the foundation of Cloud and Aerith's chemistry, a factor which I think gets forgotten too often in discussing some of the headier themes and more dramatic events surrounding these two characters (and the others of FFVII) and their relationship(s) throughout the series. . P.S. * Cloud is irritated by (and jealous of) the attention Aerith gets from other men - especially the more lewd comments. 😘 [Edited: grammar]

I'm loving your analysis, you really understood the nuances of Cloud and Aerith's relationship, and why this relationship is so unique and adorable. I also love to read the comments, they are people who really love and understand these characters, not just ship war. Thanks for the videos!

15:40 I honestly thought that scene was a cute homage to the moment she joined the party. She falls and he catches her and she says my hero he then says never a dull moment with you to which she replies is that a compliment and he says not really and she says thanks anyways...I personally thought she giggled because she thought of that moment where he saved her now she’s saving him.

I laughed so hard when cloud asked the old man 5000 gils and the fact that Aerith didn't say a word about that makes it even funny haha

One things I just noticed is how their name were chosen to compliment each other. Aerith (Earth) and Cloud (Sky). It's very interesting. I just love that handholding scene in 7:58 and how Cloud doesn't shy away from it.

The video was even greater than the last one, and points are actually evident which makes things easier to read between the lines. I actually love how Aerith can reach out to Cloud and get him to open up to her. Especially when she held his hand when he was shaken by seeing Sephiroth, and he seems comfortable just letting her hold his hand, like it felt so natural. These simple and sincere moments for me are much more sweeter and meaningful than the usual hugs and touches that people use as points to count as romantic toward the other girls. that you usually see Cloud feeling awkward . Aerith's intuition and how she approaches Cloud is preferably better, as she doesn't just leave things as they are. She makes an effort to address them. This is the main concern I have with Tifa, because in their interactions, she only seems to be scratching the surface of Cloud, and when Cloud shakes it off and acts tough and ok, she just leaves it be. She keeps these thoughts to herself which leads to miscommunications evident in Case Tifa. Meanwhile, Aerith actually goes deep inside to resolve, even a simple resolution to a failed high five implies this level of understanding from Aerith, and showing character development of Cloud [from being closed off, edgy and "not interested" to slowly opening up.] On a personal note, Tifa's trying too hard to be nice to everyone, almost to a fault, that she didn't see Cloud was feeling kinda awkward while getting talked down by Marle. Even if she tried to relieve Cloud later on inside the inn [ "Marle isn't always right you know~" ], it was kinda sad that she didn't refute Marle's insults to Cloud. "The customer is always right" is the business standard, but, oh well. Really loved your videos and looking forward to the next one~ [P.S. I love Aerith more than Cloud, so no killing's gonna happen to you for liking Cloud more. The feeling will always be mutually exclusive anyway. Haha.]

THIS! this is what makes this game unique and different among the others. These characters LIVE, you can "read" their feelings and sometimes their thoughts too. It's a bit unconfortable and chaotic to put all together during your first playthrough but eventually you get the truth, with the help of a psychologist like you it's even easier! Analyzing the analysis (this is going to be a bit long and mostly redundant but your video are one of a kind, there's no place like this where you can discuss about these HUGE details): - 0:33 "sharing the same ideas doesn't mean that there's complicity in a relationship". Of course not, that's mostly the base of a good friendship. Then you're free to love somebody who is totally on your same wavelength but...isn't it a bit boring? I might be wrong on this, though! - 5:54 "every moment matters" she says...and every gesture too, I will add. This is very subtle, thanks to point it out to the folks. - 7:07 Genuinely one of my favourite aspect: it's not a case we are talking about their last side-mission to be unlocked; Cloud learned Aerith's lesson and that's just his final exam. Summa cum laude, I'd say. Aerith knows best, she is the REAL puppetmaster of Cloud (every reference is purely casual...) - 9:40 S**t! ok, you caught me. Let's mosey. - 10:23 It's not just Cloud being absent-minded, they are just talking a different language. Tifa doesn't help neither with her non-reaction. They just cancel each other out...yes, Cloud & Tifa are basically an oximoron ( YOU!!!, holds up the misconception, this is totally different from being complementary). What's on Aerith's menu instead? mmmh, let's see: - 10:52 2 delicious dishes: the starter, Perseverance. But IMO it's far more important the main course: Reaction, she REACTS!! You can't adress a problem without pointing it out, in first place. - 12:50 If you didn't yet, just read "The investigation Unit Within the Painting", it can help on that matter but if you love Aerith, it will hurts too. - 18:20 Here I just don't get Cloud's gesture, it seems futile and out of context, unless he is blinded by her cuteness (I would be tho :D ) - 20:40 Her reference...I just can't imagine her without Cloud. Is Aerith implying that she is doing all this just for him? - 20:49 OT1: That laugh...This is subtle, trivial, confusing and disturbing at the same time, you need to read the above mentioned book to get it. When Aerith laugths she is doing nothing but hiding a HUGE pain. She will not be able to enjoy that "today's special" forever, and she knows it. Which finally leads us to the conclusion, rolling back to: - 19:28 OT2:...let's step on the dark side of the moon: I will not hide it, I'm not optimistic, although I'm trying my best latelly. IMO they are just ULTRA-MEGA-IPER sugarcoating the pill. They can't throw in the bin 23 years of businness - compilation included - just to change what we think is a flaw in the plot. Furthermore, in every spin-off, sequels, commercials, crossovers, Cloud is depicted as "the guy who lost his love, forever" (for the sake of the analphabetic Cloti). How do you think they could retcon that if they keep her alive? They just can't do that. On a second thought, with this last 2 points I just realized a stupid (and selfish) thing: today, just like 23 years ago, they taught me how to love Aerith, they really did it...but...they just forgot to teach me how to fill the void for her loss, it's already happened once. What I mean is, you can't lose someone twice, right?

Cloud’s a good relatable protag in Remake. I’m not a shipper kind of guy, but I genuinely want Cloud to be happy with Aerith. And if the ending of Remake is anything to go off of, who knows?

Yes yes and yes 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 as always you have perfectly highlighted the relationship between cloud and aerith, in a clear and simple way :’) for me aerith has changed Cloud’s life forever ... it’s so clear and evident to everyone 😭❤️ a person like Aerith is able to change a life, In my heart I wish that everyone will have the lucky to find a person in resl life like her... even if it’s a rare thing ☺️❤️ Great video as always dear ! Thank you 🙏🏻❤️

1:14. I'd like to point out that Cloud already cares about Aerith at that point. Instead of just saying something like "Nah, I can go alone" and leaving (as he usually does with people he doesn't know well), or demanding payment in money, he asks "What if the Turks show up again?". That's coming from Cloud "Not Interested" Strife. He's only been with this girl for about an hour, but he's already worried about her safety after he leaves - even if he thinks he won't be seeing her again.

I love your dedication and understanding towards their dynamic. I thank you for blessing us with these videos. It never fails to warm my heart, to see these two beautiful souls interacting together, like it's the most natural thing in the world. I want them both to cherish every bit of every moment. And it might be selfish, but I do wish for them to have a happy ending, because that is what they deserve. Thank you!

Thank you for creating these videos! I’ve played the OG 23 years ago, and have never doubted Cloud's and Aerith's love for one another. I was so confused of the comments regarding Cloud possessing Zack’s memories and his relationship with Tifa (??), that emerged with the recent launch of the remake. Your videos verified what I felt at the very beginning - how their love can transcend time, space and different dimensions. It is just beautiful and so obvious between Cloud and Aerith, and it is also something we can find in real life. Can’t wait to watch part IV!

I cannot lie....I'm really loving these videos.... The commentary is great and most of it would have gone strait over my head if I hadn't come across your channel... Keep up the good work, I was neutral, but you have made me a Clerith fan...

It’s so sad that part IV never came 😭 It’s been two years and I’m still checking on it

Thank you so much for these videos! I’m so glad that there are people who view Cloud and Aerith’s relationship the same way I do. I feel like there are too many people who downplay their bond for the sake of raising up Zack and Tifa, which does a major disservice to not just Cloud and Aerith as characters but to the whole story of FF7 (No hate, I absolutely adore Zack and Tifa, but to me FF7 has always been and always will be Cloud and Aerith’s story). But, as a person who can relate a lot to Cloud and his insecurities, I’ve always felt that Aerith balanced out and completed Cloud in ways that he had never experienced before, but had always so desperately needed. Cloud is physically strong, but mentally quite sensitive. Aerith’s emotional and mental strength enables her to help him sort through his own mental health issues and allows him to open up and be vulnerable with her, and she always knows just what to say to comfort him. I mean, just look at that scene at 7:58, he instantly calms down as soon as she touches him. That’s exactly the kind of support he needs in his most emotionally vulnerable moments. On top of that, whilst Aerith is a great mage, physically she isn’t so strong. This is also great for Cloud, as deep down he needs to feel validated and like he is worth something, and being able to physically protect Aerith - and have her praise him for it - would be exactly the kind of self esteem boost that he needs. And that’s the thing about Tifa, she is physically strong, so she doesn’t really need Cloud as much in that department. And she is also quite mentally sensitive, which isn’t a good balance for Cloud when he’s already struggling to work through his own thoughts and feelings. This is why I think, no matter how much they care for each other, Cloud and Tifa tend to butt heads more than actually support one another - they are far too similar to be compatible, at least in my opinion. Anyway, rant over 😂 Looking forward to part 4!

I'm so glad I found your videos of Clerith because I finally find people who are at the same page as me. I mean like most people ship Cloti just because they are "supposed" to, but from the beginning I've always shipped Clerith. From the first moment I saw Aerith and cloud together, I know I want to ship them. I don't personally hate on Tifa but tbh I just cant find what I like about her and her being the perfect "waifu". I know and can't deny that, she is still important to Cloud, but Aerith brings out Cloud's value even more I would say. And I think she kinda brought some trauma to young Cloud to some certain extent after watching all the explanations. Anyways I would only ship Cloti on the other parallel world where Zack remains alive, if not, Clerith for life.

I used to like the Cloti pairing a lot back in OG but FF7 remake is clearly pushing towards Clerith. The depth of Cloud’s interaction with Aerith far exceeds that of with Tifa’s. In fact in FF7R I feel that Tifa is actually a rival of Cloud for Aerith’s affection rather than being rival with Aerith for Cloud’s.

Damn bruh. Me liking your Clerith Thesis

Looking back at the interactions in the love triangle, I now realise that their dynamics are different in terms of who is leading around whom. Between Cloud and Aerith, it's Aerith who takes charge to slowly change Cloud, to lead him out of his shell by gently teasing him and his tough guy persona. You would think that it'll be the same between Cloud and Tifa, with the motherly Tifa trying to get Cloud to be nicer. But I honestly got more of the sense that it's CLOUD who is the one who is trying to lead Tifa into overcoming her reservations towards her actions as a member of Avalanche. Remember, they had that brief bar conversation, then there's him trying to calm her nerves right before the second bombing mission, and then Cloud had to comfort Tifa in her resolution scene before breaking into Shinra HQ (on top of keeping her focused during that final mission to rescue Aerith). For the latter part of the triangle, it's an inversion of what we would consider normal team dynamics in cartoons/anime/video games, where the Team Mom member is supposed to be the one who keeps The Loner in line and stopping him/her from acting out or disrupting the party. In FF7R, it's the supposedly Loner character who has to comfort The Heart and prevent her from sliding into further depression after she lost her livelihood. It's an interesting twist. But there is one more important difference. When Aerith enters into Cloud's life and tries encouraging him to be his best self, you can see Cloud earnestly trying to rise up to her expectations. He doesn't make fun of her for 'talking' to the flowers, and actually tells her subtly that he thinks it's endearing. When she tries to hi-five him, he slowly gets around to do the same for her - even when she didn't expect it! He dances for her when she eggs him on in the Honeybee inn. And you just don't get that same feeling of change when Cloud tries to do the same for Tifa. She obviously feels better after these moments, but I never got the sense that she changed or tried to become HER best self. To be fair, I don't mind her still feeling torn about her actions with Avalanche; being reluctant about bombing a mako reactor that many people rely on for their everyday lives is totally understandable. I just kind of wished that she became a little more talkative and open about herself after she has her comfortable moments with Cloud (and I proposed some scenarios to show just that in other comments for Pollen's videos). Or have her reveal a different side of herself that the audience would not have expected from her - once given the space to do so around close companions. (PS: This was a comment I actually wrote before in response to someone else's comment about how Aerith is a better fit for Cloud than Tifa was. It got removed when that original comment got deleted for some unknown reason.)

Cloud and Aerith having domestic life cures me of my depression and water my crops 😍👌🏻

Another great video and a very nice analysis. I don't hate Tifa or anything (as well with Clo/Ti) but it's just (to me personally) the relationship between Cloud/Tifa is pretty damn hard to be a romantic one. Surely that Tifa is a great character, she's kind, she's smart, she cares, she's sweet. But I think Cloud really doesn't give a fvck about it IMO. He needs someone who can truly understand him, who can show him how wonderful this life will be, who can really show him that he deserves all the loves and cares, who accepts him as the persona he is. And it's just only Aerith to me. Tifa? Meh, she's great but not whom Cloud needed. I did fall in love with Aerith and Cloud more than a decade ago. And still, keep them as my ideal relationship until now, an incomplete man with lots of weakness and traumas, always show off his does-not-give-a-fvck attitude to anyone. With a girl who also had a lot of dramas during her childhood, she also suffers from depressions but keeps her eyes and heart to look for hope and happiness during the dark age, always has an I-love-you-motherfvcer-no-matter-how attitude. They're completing each other. It's hard to see that kind of relationship in the real world, but who cares, it's just a game happens in a fantasy world. As always, I love your works. Thank you for keeping us hope(s). I do have a high hope that this time, Square Enix will finally let them Reunite as their (and ours) wishes. Let them have a happy ending Square ffs -_-

Still waiting for Part IV because I’d like to hear about the developer’s intentions through Ultimania and the released books and files about CloudxTifa feelings.

It's all fun and games until you see " Part IV", can't wait, it's like exploding in hype!

I used to ship Cloud-Tifa on the OG, after playing the remake I instantly switched to Cloud-Aerith! The chemistry between them is insane, they just complement each other well. 😍

I saw a video about cloti relationship, saying that having cloud saying Tifa‘s name all the time shows how much he cares for her, sure he does, but it felt like he can’t say much to her besides calling out her name as if there were a wall between them and he calls for her but she can’t hear him

Since Cloud can see some glimpse of the future, I think this time he will save Aerith. He must save Aerith. [Spoilers][Spoilers][Spoilers][Spoilers][Spoilers] The future isn't set in stone. Also, we have destroyed the harbinger and the whispers to change destiny. I hope the devs does not follow the original story after all those. I know Aerith's death was iconic in the OG. But you never know. Cloud saving Aerith might become iconic too.

Loving those videos so much, thank you!

...social awkwardness being explicitly called not negative and that people with it are "intense which makes them excel in a lot of other things" gave me such joy, like i was a little embarrassed by how much that touched me personally (i'm constantly self aware and comparing myself to people, like today) but putting the focus back on Cloud i happily accepted it as a statement possibly applicable to myself; i have so much respect for you for putting that forward. thank you for making these videos. i finished the game a little while ago and i'm still dazzled by their love story. with Aerith being such a nurturer she must feel so ...hmm "satisfied" doesn't seem like the right word, maybe "rewarded" or "invested in," seeing Cloud heal and grow and open up, a diamond in the rough, a good, sincere person that she sees clearly before and more than anyone else. i'm quite a bit in love with her too, and her voice actress on top of that. and Cloud has my heart, ever since i saw an interview in which oh i can't remember who it was who said Cloud isn't like other heroes, he's hard on himself. the self discovery character story and him possibly being an introvert make him my boy. his "that's where you are" line gave me the shivers. they give their best, fullest selves to each other. hoo boy, Clerith forever.

I am really hoping that in the second part of this game...they share a good kiss!!!!..I love these 2 together...Thanks for the video :)

Proof Clotis claims are weak - Cloud is not the real Cloud that loves Aerith, he thinks he is Zack so are we talking about the same Cloud in remake that is with Tifa? Remember all those scenes with Cloud and Tifa, according to Clotis it is not the real Cloud. - Cloud gave Tifa the flower. It looks like a yellow lilly. Yellow lily means reunion and friendship. Square Enix tweeted a happy friendship day of Cloud giving Tifa the flower. - Cloud looks at the flower at the bar, he thinks of Aerith. - Cloud calls Tifa beautiful, now did he or did he called Cosmo Canyon beautiful or but he did say it but Tifa was also fishing for compliments "you know Cloud people usually say something sweet" 🎣 she was fishing. - Cloud dreams of his mom in Aerith house they claim older means mature, Aerith can be silly but it was to make Cloud feel comfortable to break down his walls and she does have her mature moments in the game especially towards the end. The skies at the end of the dream, its the same skies of Tifa promise or the music is the same, duh. Where is Cloud and Tifa from? Nibelheim, the same location the same skies the same music, it has nothing to do with Tifa. - in a recent interview, the said part of the reasons why being Zack back was to answer fans questions regarding Cloud character. I see where they are going with this, if Cloud is not the real Cloud why doesn't he have Zack outgoing personality. I won't spoil it but pay close to the characters with Sephiroth in the demo, only true fans will know why Square Enix added this to rebirth, who is Cloud in the demo with Sephiroth. Cloud loves Aerith.

I've been waiting this for a mighty long time!

I really hope you continue with this series. I mean, we’re still waiting for part 4 of this. And the new rebirth game gives a lot of material to analyze. Please come back.

Also the part where they have the ghost intermission right before the plate comes down, Aerith is holding onto Cloud and resting her head on cloud showing that she infact is relying on Cloud not just as a body guard but a lover... and before you say that she was just holding onto him because she was worried or scared, Tifa was also holding onto cloud but FAR LESS of an amount that Aerith was.

I love this series so much. And I love how you talked about Clouds inability to speak to people. I never got to play the original game (seeing as I was born the year it came out lol), so I love being able to watch these videos to see more in depth of all these characters. Especially Cloud. I used to think Cloud was just rude and arrogant, but the more you watch the cutscenes in all of the other games and learn about his life, you can see all of that is just his way of surviving in a world that's always shut him out. Keep up the great work, I love all your videos

I love these videos cuz you give so nice insights about Cloud and Aerith behavior when they are together. After meeting Aerith Cloud started to change, she gave him other reasons to be him. I love this couple!!!

I tried to watch all cloti fan vid. And their reason is so simple not like your vid. Your vid show the fact about clerith is so true and clear. I’m really sick with SOME of cloti theory about cloud is not loved aerith,tifa is canon and real heroin and Cloud is belong to her by default. Such as - Tifa and cloud are childhood friends. They’re so closed relationship. - Tifa and cloud spent time together in the highwind scene (That is the point of cloti fandom) some of cloti confirmed that scene they had sex already! - Tifa and cloud had a depth connection more than aerith. - Cloud is being as zack’s memories and feeling while he together with aerith - Tifa fixed cloud’s memories and get him back his trueself and cloud have strong feeling with tifa after he remember everything. - After aerith death, cloud felt guilt with her death and its not love but guilt for friend - Tifa and cloud are understand each other even without saying. Honestly, Almost all cloti fan never accepted or listened to clerith evidence at all. Almost of them just want to break down clerith fan even clerith fan have so many evidence or referenced.They liked to blind their eyes and keep going to give a simple reason. You know, I never feel anything romance between of them. I felt tifa is cloud first crush when he was a boy but After he regained memories. his dialogue when talked with her is like talked with his old friend. Even in Remake, i felf tifa is friendzone more than love interest by dialogue,bodylanguage, eyes contact. I’m so disaapoint almost of them that they never understand the true story telling about cloud feeling. There are so many hint in the OG and ACC about his feeling. I know that if cloud end up with aerith.That will made tifa look very pitiful. Because she loves cloud And some of aggressive fandom will be blamed that aerith take him away from her. I’m really angry when some toxic cloti fan say that aerith is garbage, too annoying, flirty bitch They’re never respect to other opinion or ship even charactor in game.What a shame.

So precious. Im like Cloud and need a good friend like Aerith in my life.

I love how you analyze the characters and I love them Cloud and Aerith it doesn’t matter what people said about them.But I feel when they spent time together they happy and I see how Cloud change became better . I really thank for your video.

You are a natural at this, this is incredible. Makes one appreciate the wonderful writing this game has. I also like how you refrain from using scenes from other parts of FFVII, which could easily show Aerith as the best partner for Cloud and completely discredit Tifa (for example you could've used a lot of scenes with Tifa from AC which are an epitome of how she doesn't understand him and is not compatible with Cloud at all). Have you thought about doing a separate video in the future to highlight most of the biggest differences between japanese and english translations? People could really use something like this, since english mistranslates a lot of stuff and downplays Aerith and Clouds relationship A LOT.

I love your videos-They always make my day. You are so logical and articulate. You don't shame the other ship at all, which I feel Cloti fans do a lot to Clerith fans. Thanks so much!

A few of my friends thought Cloud was being a Jerk to Aerith during the end fight. When he said not really after she asked if he missed her. With how protective of her he was I always took it as a yeah but now isn't a good time in not so many words.

Your character Analysis is great. Thanks for making this for us Clerith shippers! Hope to see more interactions between them in the next game :D

Damn I've been waiting for this. You really deserve more subscribers these are insanely high effort and thought provoking. Edit: I feel like a other thing to touch on is the characterization in the bits of dialogue before and after fights. For example, one goes like this: Cloud: Stay behind me Aerith: So I can watch your back right? Which shows the nature of their relationship in a nutshell.

Thank you for making such detailed and thoroughly researched vids for team Clerith.. :) I’ve read most of the comments already and they already said what i wanted to say. The sheer dedication you have towards the game’s writing and this shipping support is highly appreciated. Hope more of these come out when part 2 arrives.

You know, I love being a part of the Clerith community. We don’t just take everything at face value. We dissect every single thing; every gesture; every memory or moment every line and then we pick a part evidence that is provided in every game or in every installment and what developers say about the game. There’s so much intelligence and analysis that goes through the storyline and the characters ‘ personalities themselves and we just don’t go off by how we feel or how we like about them. I also noticed that we’re a relatively peaceful group. I noticed that we generally just watch would be like you know we hang out and then comment on videos that support our ship, but when it comes to some-and I’m not generalizing that all of them act like this- Some cloti shippers like to go to our videos explaining how or why we think this is a canon pairing and then they just say toxic stuff or say we’re delusional. There’s far more of them trying to mess with the things we like then a fellow clerith shipper going off to their videos and saying their thoughts and what they like is messed up.

Whats great about this analysis is that it makes Cloud's tough silent brooding attitude tolerable considering that it is the result of a lifetime of being made to feel like a loner. Its his way of coping. These two characters just became so much deeper after watching these videos.

Please keep doing CLERITH videos they're the best couple haha... Even Claudia wanted a girl like Aerith for her son so there's no better ending for Cloud :) ...... Do you know when will we have the second part of the game??... Greetings

Now I'm sad that we only have one part left :( Hope Remake 2 will come out as soon as possible so I get to see your amazing analyses!

(10:47 and 10:59 )With a game so good designed, showing the expressions too carefully, is almost impossible find coincidences or being too interpretative with the scenes. Is quite obvius that Cloud and Aerith have a special relationship. The designers knew to doing very well... Is a delicious to see how minucius are to showing up all the expresions (specially Cloud´s) and corporal lenguage. Too much love in this game!

Dude I literally launched RU-vid wondering if the video was out... and here it is! :)

Wow, your ability to analyse all of these is incredible. It just makes the game more attractive and enjoyable