Whispers


Aerith Gainsborough stands on the footpath overlooking the once majestic City of the Ancients, now only known as The Forgotten City. To some, it would seem that the fallen city is now a desolate ruin, crumbling buildings dot the paths, unnerving silence hangs like mist in the air, and an unmistakable feeling of loss seems to spiral around those who set foot on the ancient grounds. Aerith, however, is different.

Since she was a child, she has always known this; she has always been able to do things that others cannot. Her Ancient blood allows her to communicate with those returned to the Planet, those who have re-entered the Lifestream, found their Promised Land. The Planet whispers her to sleep each night, a familiar voice tells the Ancient that one day, she too will find it. Aerith thinks she already has. His name is Cloud Strife - a mysterious young man whom she met while selling flowers on Midgar's streets. She aches to meet him properly, but she knows that the Planet demands urgent action from her, its child. That is why, as she stands there, taking in the view of the silent city, Aerith feels as though she has finally returned home.

Rather than a feeling of loss, Aerith somehow senses familiarity. Rather than unnerved, she feels safe. However, she knows that a great danger threatens the Planet. She knows that he is there, deep in the heart of the Forgotten Capital. She also knows that Cloud Strife is searching for her, and for a long moment thinking of him, her resolve wavers. But the Planet's whispers remind her that the Calamity from the Skies has made her move, and Aerith knows that she must do what is needed from her. She knows that there is something much greater than her happiness at stake.

Still, the last Cetra cannot help but feel slightly bitter that she must give up her Promised Land to fulfil her birthright. She is human, after all.

Half-human, she corrects, taking a deep breath and tightening her grip on the staff she holds at her side. Eyes fixated on the horizon, she ventures deeper into the crumbling city, praying that she will not be forgotten.