Disclaimer: Sadly enough I own no one. *sigh*

Chapter one:

Peace. That is what the world wanted. It was a simple dream from the people, a simple dream from us, and a simple dream from me. However, it wasn't so simple to obtain. It was known and yet unknown by the people. I remember how that very word was spat upon when mentioned, let alone discussed. It barely existed because it was seen as a false hope, a fantasy. The word 'peace' was no more, all because of one name:

Shinra.

Their empire was known as Midgar, a vast and bountiful city. They were a step above us all because they had science, something that was the envy of others. And their newfound knowledge resulted in the most spectacular invention: The airship. It was literally their pride and joy, and they wanted everyone to know it. They wanted everyone to know they had power.

Now Midgar may seem like the ideal kingdom to live in, but it was the rival of almost all countries. Nevertheless, it could end up to be one of your best allies. That is, if you could ever make alliance with them. Indeed, it was very hard to become one without something they needed for their glory. And if you declined them, they would simply blackmail you.

But there was also another tactic they used. It was only exercised when Shinra desperately wanted something valuable; and the other nation would refuse. All I can say is this didn't happen very much, but when it has it was an event that would be remembered. They made sure of it.

That's where the airships come in. One of their most 'brilliant' inventions made, became known as another kingdom's death sentence. They would load their ships with every kind of explosive made, and bomb the city. No survivors, no exceptions. Unless that monarchy gave Shinra what they wanted, it was all out massacre.

Fear is what they fed upon, power is what resulted.

*****

There was word around the castle of an important visitor to be expected. I paid no heed naturally; one could never believe the gossip these days. Thus I pushed the news to the back of my head. Anyway, visitors were always in and out to see my father, their meetings never concerned me.

So I walked through the endless hallways, and inhaled the crisp spring scent. It was quite nice actually; with windows being constantly open, fresh air always mingled freely with the palace smells.

I made a right and casually entered the training hall. It was empty, which I was grateful for, because one doesn't usually see a lady associate with swords. So I picked up a training blade and started to review my exercises.

*

When I was a child, I was always intrigued by the beautiful weapon and longed to touch one. I made the mistake of sneaking into the hall one day to watch students train. The instructor was using a real sword, demonstrating different techniques with it. And while my eyes sparkled with fascination, they never left the blade until the mentor placed the weapon on a bench. After, he asked the class to imitate what he did and left to help some students.

As one would soon find out, the lack of a child's common sense is replaced by stupidity. And that's what exactly what happened to me. I picked the blade up and had one second of pure joy, just from holding it. I felt wonderful. But the strength in my arms gave way when I found out how heavy the sword really was.

Not good.

As a result, my left arm was rewarded with a nasty long scar from wrist to elbow. But thankfully it could only be seen when my palm was up. So I made a mental note to myself to keep that side of my arm out of sight. Only so I could avoid nosey questions from equally nosey people.

Afterward, I received quite a speech from my father. He gave me a lecture on how children shouldn't wander around the training halls, especially little girls. I felt my pride drop down a level; I wasn't usually scolded over such a foolish act. So I guiltily looked down and mumbled an apology. I felt horrible.

It was then that I heard a soft chuckle behind me. Startled from the interruption, I turned around and was met face to face with armor. And it wasn't just any armor, it was samurai armor. I felt myself swallow hard and took a few steps back. The person who stood before me was a muscular built man. He was old, but his face showed that he possessed wisdom beyond years. I could see crow's feet beside both eyes become more defined as a smile formed slightly on his mouth; eyes twinkling with amusement.

My father gave a sheepish half-smile to the man. "Ah Zangan, I am sorry. You must have heard my little lecture to my daughter. She seemed to have gotten in a small accident." He eyed me sternly and I winced in response. I knew this would continue this later.

A heart filled laugh filled the room. "No need to apologize my old friend! Actually I couldn't help but overhear, and an idea struck me," the strange man answered.

"Oh?" my father replied uncertainly.

The stranger cleared his throat. "It has been a long while, and I am afraid my years are limited now." His eyes suddenly glazed over. And his positive attitude had stepped down a notch. "I would like to leave this world knowing that I helped at least one more person; even if it is for a little girl."

My eyes became so wide, I thought they'd pop right out! Did that mean...

"If it's not too much trouble sire, I would like to train your daughter in the ways of the sword. Basics at first, for she is only a child. But in time she might be as good as any man."

I restrained myself from practically jumping up to hug Zangan and saying 'thank you' over and over again. So instead I grinned from ear to ear, mentally crossing my fingers so my father would agree.

"Well…" my father started.

He looked at me and saw the excitement in my face. I nodded vigorously.

Zangan continued, "You see, I sense the fire in your daughter. No ordinary little girl would be so curious to hold a sword, unless they wanted to use it. And this curiosity usually occurs with boys. It would only be reasonable."

My father looked away from me and met Zangan's eyes. They stared at each other for a moment and eventually his eyes softened.

"If it was any other man, I would refuse it," he began, "but since it is you Zangan, I trust that you will train my daughter right. I will give you this opportunity as your last wish before your time comes."

Zangan bowed respectfully. "Thank you my Lord."

Looking at me my father gave me careful instructions. "As for you Tifa, I accept you to behave. Zangan is now your master."

"Oh yes father! I understand!" I chirped happily.

*

A smile touched my face, remembering the memories. Never once have I regretted my sword training, I absolutely loved it.

As for Zangan, he completed his task in educating me. And with that completion he died happily, knowing that he helped one last person.