Dave Linshire, a spunky seven year-old living is Gongaga Village. He grew up in Gongaga with his friend Zack, four years older than he. Dave and Zack would often get into trouble together but also punished together, the two were inseparable. Dave had a good life. He knew that one-day, he and Zack were going to join SOLDIER and become famous, just like Sephiroth.
The war with Wutai was over. Sephiroth had played a major role in the victory for Shinra and the people of Gongaga who fought were returning home. The old weapon shop owner was one of them. Dave was just learning how to read the content of the newspapers at that time.
"Mom." He asked, "Who's Se-Seph…"
"Sephiroth Dave," she answered, "Sephiroth is the strongest man in the world, he helped Shinra stop an attacking army that almost invaded our continent."
"Oh." Was all Dave said. The fact that Sephiroth was the strongest man in the world was all it took to get him started about his dreams of SOLDIER.
"Mom," he said again, "Can I take sword lessons?"
"I don't see why not," she replied, "it's a good thing for all young men to learn at least enough to survive out there. Monsters are increasing everyday."
"Can I start today!" He asked, excitedly.
"No Dave," she said, "maybe in a couple of years, you're too young right now."
"Phooey!" He said.
"Don't worry honey," his mother comforted, "run along now and play with Zack until dinner, that will get your mind off of sword lessons."
"Yes mother," he sighed and walked out.
Dave and Zack would often play together until dark or get in trouble, one way or another they were inseparable. Zack exited his house and noticed his friend's disappointment.
"Hi Dave," he said, "what's the matter with you?"
"Aw, my mother won't let me take sword lessons." Dave complained.
"Who said you had to take formal lessons," Zack said, "we could do a couple of sessions out here with sticks."
"Hey, that is a good idea." Dave and Zack promptly left to find some sticks and have a mock sword fight.