Aeris sighed as she yet again rearranged the flowers in her cart, it was a slow day in the market place as the rumor of possible war was spreading and the people were avoiding leaving their homes. Midgar was a peaceful kingdom and had very few enemies but lately the distant kingdom of Wutai was making threats of war, the details why were only known to the royal family, but rumors stated it was something to do with the prince and marriage.
She was about to pack up her cart when a quiet voice asked her how much the flowers were. Looking up at the man before he she blinked, he wore a black velvet tunic over top of black tights; a black leather belt was fastened about his waist with a silver buckle. He wore knee high black leather boots and a long black cloak which reached the ground, his face was hidden in the shadow of the cloak's hood.
"Five gil 'sir" She said, catching a glimpse of electric green eyes as the man looked over the flowers.
"Five gil... for one?" He asked quietly.
"Yes 'sir."
"And... how much for a bunch?"
Aeris blinked, no one had wanted to buy a whole bunch off of her before, who was this man? "Uh... sixty-five gil 'sir."
"Save me a bunch..." he said glancing down the street. "I'll be back tomorrow." With that he turned and disappeared in the opposite direction.
Looking the opposite way to where he left Aeris gasped. "Palace guards? What are they doing here...?" Quickly she packed up her cart and headed home.
* * * * *
The next morning was sunny and warm as she set up her cart again, arranging the flowers in a pleasing manner. I wonder if that man will return today... she thought to herself, smiling as she watched a couple of children playing nearby. Looking up she watched a few birds flittering about the trees in a playful manner and she giggled quietly at the scene.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" The voice cut through her thoughts and she turned around to see the dark stranger had indeed returned.
"Yes 'sir." She smiled. "Days like this make you glad to be alive."
"Really? I never thought of it that way."
"Oh yes 'sir, see the birds?" She gestured to them. "They dance and play, so carefree in the sun. And those children..." she continued." See how they play, not a care in the world, enjoying their youth."
"But what about this threat of war? Doesn't that upset you?
Aeris shook her head. "No 'sir, for I trust the royal family will do the right thing."
The man sighed. "If only other people would see as you do, then perhaps I could get out of this marriage."
"'Sir...?" Aeris was confused as to this change in his attitude. "What do you mean?"
"It doesn't matter." Shaking his head he pulled out a pouch. "Sixty-five gil... here you go."
"Thank you 'sir." Aeris smiled and handed him one of her best bunches of flowers.
"You look even prettier when you smile."
Aeris blushed lightly and was about to respond when the captain of the palace guard came over. He wore black with a crimson cloak, his long raven hair was free flowing down his back. "'Sir," he said to the other man. "You must come back. It's not safe out here for you."
"I'm safe enough, besides I need some fresh air."
"But 'sir..."
"No buts!" He cut in. "Just leave me alone Valentine!"
"As you wish, your highness, but I shan't be far away." The captain bowed and left.
"Highness...?? Prince Sephiroth?!" Aeris gasped.
The man nodded. "Yes, yes I am."
"I'm sorry your majesty... if I'd known it was you I wouldn't of charged you for the flowers." She said quietly. "Please, take your money back."
Sephiroth shook his head. "You keep it, it's not like I don't have more."
"Th... Thank you 'sir." She bowed slightly.
Sephiroth smiled lightly under his hood although she couldn't see it. Suddenly a messenger on horseback rode past at a frantic pace towards the captain, and the prince wondered what was going on. Soon the captain ran over to him quickly. "Sire, you must return to the palace."
"What's going on?"
"Please your highness, just come back."
"Vincent, tell me what's going on!?"
The captain sighed. "Princess Kisaragi of Wutai is on her way and is just outside the city limits."
"What?! This is too soon!" Sephiroth shook his head. "Tell me flower seller, what is your name?"
"Aeris, your majesty."
"A pretty name." Turning back to Vincent he nodded, "alright, I'll go back now. The princess' room needs to be decorated though. Captain, help Aeris bring some of her best flowers to the palace. I'll meet you there."
"Very well your majesty." Vincent said with a low bow and Sephiroth took off down the street. Aeris was in shock but did everything Captain Valentine asked of her, for it was a great honor to be admitted to the castle.
* * * * *
To be continued ......