Chapter 2: Fateful Encounters
Cloud finds himself in a perilous situation surrounded by live wires. He must carefully follow blue markers to ensure his safety, and in doing so, he stumbles upon a chest containing two valuable potions. His journey leads to a cinematic encounter with Jessie, who blows up a door, unveiling the city's relentless pursuit. Cloud also discovers an Ether in a chest and ascends a flight of stairs.
Descending from the steps, Cloud meets Jessie, who rewards him with a healing materia. This materia allows Cloud to utilize MP for self-healing, saving precious potions. Jessie provides insights into observing the environment, a crucial skill for various situations.
As Cloud heads towards a compass marker, he encounters a chest with 50 Gil. Crossing a shattered bridge, he is introduced to the enigmatic figure, Sephiroth, in a cutscene.
Continuing the journey, Cloud takes a detour through an alleyway and a street, climbing fire escapes and exploring rooftops. He discovers a chest with three potions and descends a fire escape to reach Loveless Street's fork.
On one side, Cloud may engage in battle with additional security officers. A strategic change in approach is advised to handle them efficiently.
Opting to venture to the right, Cloud encounters a charming brunette flower girl. Their interaction may influence the story, depending on Cloud's choice to be kind or mean.
The situation takes an unexpected turn as Cloud parts ways with the enigmatic character. He confronts more security officers, utilizing his combat skills with wide swings and fire spells when needed.
Following the skirmish, Cloud runs down the street, facing a new wave of enemies. Prioritizing officers due to their long-range attacks is crucial. A purple item on the ground reveals an HP Up materia. Fire and Heal materia remain recommended.
Continuing the journey, Cloud confronts a new group of officers, while a purple orb next to a car contains a Deadly Dodging materia. In the theater area, Cloud finds a chest with Power Wristguards to enhance his attack capabilities.
Proceeding down the street, Cloud uncovers a Hi-Potion on a balcony. Approaching a gate, Cloud notices Shinra mobilizing troops. Their determination is tested as Cloud's journey unfolds.
Reaching a water fountain on the street, Cloud faces enemies, prioritizing ranged foes before dealing with close combat adversaries. The new enemy, Grenadier, throws high-damage grenades, necessitating their swift elimination to protect Cloud.
After the initial water fountain skirmish, a Shinra Helicopter appears, deploying Shock Troopers. Cloud defends against their melee attacks using fire magic or buster sword sweeping strikes. Additional enemies join the fray.
During the flight through the city, Cloud can secure Grenades from a nearby chest and a Potion in an adjacent alley. Destroying crates for MP restoration and climbing a ladder is the next step.
Climbing up quickly while evading enemy fire, Cloud faces the presence of a helicopter above, marking a significant shift.
Upon descending the first ladder, Cloud discovers an Iron Bangle in a chest, providing enhanced protection. Setting materia is essential for success. Cloud's journey down streets introduces the riot trooper, a formidable adversary combining elements of officers and shock troopers while wielding a stunning shield. Fire spells and Cloud's wide-ranging attacks are advised.
The Huntsman presents a challenging mini-boss. With a shield capable of blocking all physical attacks, a more strategic approach is required. Fire magic weakens the enemy's defenses, and countering its attacks is another effective tactic. The objective is to stagger The Huntsman and unleash a barrage of buster sword strikes.
Following this battle, Cloud strategically retreats, showcasing why he may never become Sephiroth. On the train, he reunites with the crew and encounters a voice actor reminiscent of "Breaking Bad."
In the final section, as Cloud explores the train cars, he exercises caution and gathers 100 Gil from a chest. Engaging in conversations with the passengers is optional, but the key interaction is with Jessie, concluding this thrilling chapter of the adventure.