With an affirmative nod, Ven turns to take the lead with Rae following close. "I met him here," he explains. "He works at the Ranch a lot -- he helped me catch a Chocobo a little while back, actually!" There's some obvious respect and gratitude in his tone; Cloud's definitely a good friend as far as Ven's concerned, not just a passing acquaintance.

...Even if he did show up at the date auction in a dress that one time...

"He's told me a lot about his world. He said Zack and Sephiroth come from there, too."

He tilts his head thoughtfully. "He might've mentioned some other friends, too. So maybe the ones you mentioned are here, after all." Ven's aware he hasn't met all of the Heroes directly, so it's quite possible he's overlooked some names.