Ceodore moved with his back against the rock as much as possible, trying not to fall into the void. Golbez didn't allow him a moment's respite. The boy did not let out a sigh and remained motionless, waiting. Then the rock he was standing on was shaken by an invisible force, and he fell. He thought he was about to die, and screamed in terror, losing control, until he landed painfully on a rough surface. His left elbow was crushed under his body. He rolled sideways as he tried to get back on his feet, groaning in pain. He stumbled, straining his legs as hard as he could, and then began to limp quickly to the next boulder, which was approaching full force. He managed to jump by a hair, while the two boulders collided, scattering debris all around; Ceodore used the situation to his advantage, using the cloud of dust as a cover to hide among the stray rocks.
"Come on, at least once…" he thought, panting. He gritted his teeth while checking that his arm wasn't broken: luckily it was just sore. Not being able to figure out where Golbez was, he sneaked out of his hiding place, but saw nothing hovering in the air but the giant stones they had dueled over. Ceodore drew back, not considering it wise to remain out in the open, and nearly fell off the rock again in surprise: Golbez was circling in front of him. His pose expressed tranquility, control, dominance, and power.
-Why won't you give me a break!?- Ceodore exclaimed, exasperated. Golbez did not answer, but merely raised his left hand. Ceodore jumped aside, managing to reach a nearby platform, but the next moment he was thrown forward by the crack of a bolt of lightning. He managed to draw his sword with his good arm and turned towards the sorcerer. He was again knocked down before he could even realize what had hit him. He recovered and hurled a sacred blade at Golbez, but the opponent was no longer there. The boy rolled his eyes, and saw a boulder twice the size of him stop a few inches from his forehead, leaving him to gaze at it.
-What have I always told you?- his uncle asked, moving the stone away to look him straight in the eyes. Ceodore did not reply as Golbez went to alight in front of him: he was almost twice his height and one and a half times wide.
-You must never lose eye contact with the opponent, it is the rule of combat- the man continued to scold him, while the lunar debris returned to settle on the surface of the moon.
-Y-yes uncle- the boy stammered with little conviction, frightened.
-Why don't you ever do it then? - the other insisted, crossing his arms inquiringly.
-B-b-because… it's not easy with you- the boy tried to justify himself. He regretted that answer when he felt his uncle's reproachful gaze fixated on him. He was going to punish him. Maybe he would make him fight his Shadow Dragon, again. The more he thought about it the more it seemed impossible to obtain success: it had taken him seven years just to be able to scratch the scales of the dragon, let alone how many it would take to penetrate his uncle's armor.
-I am training you to fight precisely because it will never be easy, and surely this is nothing comparable to fighting real enemies- Golbez scolded him dryly.
-I ask for your forgiveness- he stammered, bowing respectfully, and dared not move from that position until his sensei allowed him.
-Come on, stop being a kid. You are almost eighteen, now you are a man- his uncle said, placing a giant hand on his shoulder.
-But why does it never work? I can't figure out how to do it!- Ceodore exclaimed, moaning loudly in frustration.
-You have to keep fighting again and again, until you find the way- Golbez reiterated -You will not be given a second chance in battle.
Ceodore collapsed to his knees, exhausted and in pain.
-That's enough for today, you're injured enough not to deserve more torture- his uncle took him in his arms and carried him away.
-Why can't I learn magic like you? - he asked.
-I tried. Apparently you aren't gifted.
-But I can defend myself a little.
-You cannot rely on magic in combat. You have too little power- replied the giant.
-But you could if you tried to teach me as hard as I try to learn.
-Trust me boy, I have to try harder than you in order to teach you.
-But why?
-Because, Ceodore. I promised I would explain everything to you in more detail on your 18th birthday. There is still some time left, try to prepare as many questions as possible for that day.
The boy gave up with a snort. He looked up towards the earth, the huge blue and gray sphere, mysterious and unattainable for them who were exiled on the Moon.

Aeis could feel the planet through her hands and feet: the earth was porous, it spoke with his own voice, it crept into the folds of her skin, caressing it softly. The Lifestream flowed silently just below the surface, reassuringly calm. Thanks to it, Aeis' awareness could push beyond the limits of her body, savor that feeling of freedom that led her to fly above the clouds or crawl into the depths of the earth. At least up to the edge of her house: beyond that the Lifestream was inert.
Even the animals didn't go any further. Aeis hoped to make it one day, her whole body groaning to leave those borders, to rejoin the great flow and find peace. Suddenly the Lifestream was shaken by a wave, becoming silent. Aeis felt the danger approaching with determined steps, the aura of death that surrounded it terrified the planet itself. But Aeis was not intimidated, and the strength of her heritage resonated through her hands, unleashing it's full power: the earth itself rose around her, surrounding her, clinging to her legs and arms. Then Aeis twirled through the air with a superhuman thrust and landed far away, where the silver blades couldn't hurt her. Her power, her inheritance, was eager to be released, so she set it free: feathers spread over her skin, nails became claws, teeth fangs.
The angel of death stared at her motionless a few meters away, the terrifying blade swinging from his hands and waiting to strike her. Moments later he reached her. Aeis responded with a pillar of fire. He walked through it fearlessly, and in an instant he was upon her. He was fast, strong, experienced. With each attack he repelled her, and seemed to predict her every move. When her claws managed to scratch his flesh, it healed. He was an invincible enemy, but Aeis had beaten him before, she had been fighting him all his life, and he had never managed to overwhelm her. This time too, it would have ended the same way.
Suddenly the angel doubled over, moaning: his body seemed to dry up, his veins swelled enough to stand out against his pale skin, glowing with pure green energy, and he would have passed out if she hadn't caught him. Aeis used the soothing powers of the Lifestream to heal him and help him out of the crisis.
-It's getting worse- she told him, while his mentor recovered.
-At least you're getting better- Sephiroth replied, putting a hand on her shoulder -I'm proud of you.
-Don't joke like that- Aeis scolded him, helping him to get back on his feet -It can't go on like this.
-Don't be afraid girl, it can't get any worse than that- he replied, meeting her gaze. Aeis saw all his suffering show through his tired eyes.
-I beg to differ. I have to find a way to cure you, now that you have almost no strength left.
-You are more important, little girl.
He gave her a pat, then managed to get up on his own. He towered over her, but he had proved to be affectionate despite his size, and frail despite his strength.
-How can you not get all dirty when we fight?- he asked, referring to the untouched skin of the girl. Aeis spread her shoulders, stepping out of the Trance and letting her bare feet sink past her ankle.
-You must remember to wear clothes every now and then- he scolded her, encircling her shoulders.
-Guess who I got it from.
Sephiroth sighed.
-Your mother would've scolded us both for this. And her esper powers were no joke. I tremble at the thought.
-And my father?
-He disguised himself as a woman. I dare him to say anything.

-Did mom like me?
-Do you ask me this question again? You've been asking that same question since you learned how to talk- Jecht replied, belching loudly. Despite his age he was still able to drink two gallons of beer and feel as fresh as a rose, and that was all that mattered to him.
-Because I like to hear you say it, grandfather- answered the young Gaius. He had his mother's eyes and his father's dirty blond haircut, but otherwise he was as tall and muscular as Jecht. And equally gifted at blitzball, in his opinion.
-Your mother was an angel- he continued -Don't ask me to talk about her boy. My words won't do her justice.
-Then tell me about my father.
-Oh, you have no pity for this old man- he complained, leaving the bottle on the ground -Your father and I did not get along boy, you know. There were harsh words from both sides, and neither of us was willing to give in for the other's sake.
-But you loved each other anyway.
-Psss. You have no idea. I would have moved mountains for him, and I would do it again.
-Why don't you do it then?
-Are you kidding me? Without my good arm?- Jecht replied, pointing to the stump: all that remained of his right arm after the battle.
-Ouch ouch boy, the days when good Jecht towered over the battlefield are over.
-But you always like to tell this story, don't you?
-Absolutely boy- the man grinned -My voice has enough strength to echo to the ends of the world, and it will do so even when I'm dead.
-When can I get to know it all?
-Ah, that's what you wanted to know.
Jecht got up and slapped his nephew on the shoulder -There are still a few days before our deals expires, boy, don't cheat. Now let's finish this beer, tomorrow we will need to be strong for training. Don't try to make a disappointed face, we'll be out of Besaid in a few days. And we'll have to swim all the way, so save your breath for then: I won't let you drown.

Mikoto knew she had superhuman patience, so she wasn't surprised that the black magicians had given up already.
-Salis- she said softly, combing the girl's dark hair -You couldn't at least try to be a little more understanding towards others?
-I have no interest in spending my days picking flowers and taking care of the sick, aunt- hissed the girl. Mikoto couldn't see her face but she knew she was doing her best to accommodate her. After all, it was she who cared about her beloved and only niece looking elegant on her birthday.
-You are safe in the village. Out of here there is only death.
-You told me this story many times.
-Why do you insist on going out then?
-Because I want to get out of this place!- Salis snapped, trying to escape her Mikoto let her go, she wouldn't go far in her new dress. However, the young woman reached the other side of the room as seated herself, giving him a penetrating look.
-You've said many times that you would make me leave, one day- she finally snorted, breaking eye contact.
-When I will judge you ready.
-I'm ready!
-It's not up to you to decide- Mikoto raised her hand -I promised that I would take care of you and that I would prepare you for this. There are only two days left until the birthday, then you can know everything you need.
-So I might as well leave here just wanting to?
-Hardly darling- Mikoto replied -You don't know what awaits you out there.
-But you said I'm ready!
-You are not dear- replied the older woman -Now come, I have to finish combing you.
Salis gave no sign to move.
-Salis Tribal Alexandros- Mikoto insisted, without losing her temper even for a moment -Come and sit next to me now.
Salis snorted, but finally gave in.
-Try to hurry- she protested. Mikoto smiled, and went back to work. Patience always helped her in the end.

-Don't think of holding back- Seifer growled, staring at the student with his hands on his hips and an inquisitive look -Today there shall be no mercy!
-Shall we begin?- she asked, ufazed. Her gunblade was already drawn, and she was set for battle. Seifer cracked his neck, then stepped forward into the training ring in a haughty manner.
-Remember everyone- he said, turning to the auditorium full of students in the garden -This is a battle to the death! Nobody should interfere!
Then he turned his head directly towards his student -If the puppy is unworthy she shall drown in her own blood!
A few worried murmurs arose from the spectators, but Seifer ignored them: it was the hour of truth. She stepped forward, walking synchronized circles with her opponent. They were studying each other like two mad dogs, waiting for the bell to ring to begin. Seifer wanted blood that day. He would finally get a taste of it.
The gong interrupted his thoughts and the adrenaline did the rest. In a flash they were facing each other. The gunblades crossed with a screech within millimeters from their faces. Seifer looked into her eyes and saw only determination. Then he pushed her back, hot on pursuit. But the young woman had learned well, and she easily escaped his blows with quick leaps and responded with high blows, aimed at his head. Seifer kept focusing on the offensive, stopping only to dodge. The girl held up the confrontation, not conceding ground.
Their weapons crossed as fast as lightning, leaving only swift trails of sparks in the air as the dance continued. The crowd kept cheering, throwing encouragement to both fighters. Suddenly the girl tried to switch to the offense, imitating Seifer's aggressive assault, but he did not give her ground, and soon realized that the pupil was becoming too sure of herself: she was not giving herself room to maneuver; soon she would get too close and ...
Seifer deflected her attack with a strong twist with both arms, pushing her off axis, and the girl staggered. Next a red line formed on the young woman's face, an oblique cut right in the center. Shouts of dismay rose among the spectators, but Seifer ignored them. His student proved to be a disappointment: after years of training she had been fooled by her cursed hubris, just like his father.
Seifer kept attacking, relentless. She managed to keep out of his reach, barely. Seifer dropped a blow from above too violently and the young woman pinned the tip of his blade to the ground with her boot. The warrior pushed it aside with a twist, but had to retract the blade quickly to parry the next assalt. He tried to use the block to counter, but she dodged again and resumed her assault. Seifer had to back away, unable to break her rhythm.
They exchanged a dozen more blows in quick succession, then the girl got through his guard. Seifer tried to push her away with his free hand, but the following moment he realized his mistake and saw his gunblade being thrown out of his hand. Then came the pain, cold and hot at the same time, when the young woman put a second scar on his face, complementary to the one he already possessed. The sting of defeat made his pride burn.
-Enough!- he shouted, silencing the crowd and halting the girl. Seifer stared at his pupil, saw the face crossed by that scar, and he remembered his first duel all those years ago… He nodded towards her, convinced.
-The pupil has surpassed the teacher ah?- she whispered, putting her hands on her hips.
-You are worthy of your father- he said -You are worthy of his respect, and you are worthy of his sword.
He grabbed her right wrist and lifted it into the air, the gunblade tight in her grip.
-This blade was baptized with my blood!- he shouted, addressing everyone -It wouldn't have been the same if it had happened otherwise!
A roar greeted the statement as the entire school celebrated the successful exam.
-Congratulations baby girl- he added then, holding the young woman in a warm embrace -You are a real Leonhart.
Rasida returned the hold, albeit for a short time.
-Master- she said, after a few minutes.
-Do not call me that anymore!- he exclaimed, pushing her away -Now you have conquered your father's sword. You are equal to me.
-Okay- she replied -Seifer. I have kept my promise and passed the test. Now it's your turn.
-Certainly girl- he replied, motioning her to follow him -Let's go to my office, we'll have some privacy for a while. I'll ask Quistis to get us something to drink.
-I do not drink.
-After hearing what I have to tell you, you will need it.

Caius waited patiently for the boy to make his own decision. The truth was a heavy burden, especially for a young man who had spent eighteen years in the dark. But he was sure the boy wouldn't let him down. Arain was a strong young man, disciplined and iron like his mother, but also kind and responsible like his father. He had all the best qualities of a warrior and a leader, he would be able to bear the weight of truth and the task that awaited him, and he would help his future companions to bear theirs. Eventually the boy returned, fully armed. His mother's gunblade was tied at the waist, and the rest was all his father's arsenal: the shield was held tight around his left arm, the bow and spear slung over his shoulder, the daggers secured in the leggings and the sword hanged on the other side respect to the gunblade.
-I believe you- he said, sitting down in front of Caius -I looked beyond the time portal, and I saw everything.
The warrior nodded. In the end Arain had made his choice, and he had chosen well.
-You can't go back boy- Caius told him -You won't have a chance to think again.
-You've been preparing me for this for the past eighteen years- he replied. His long pale pink hair, like his mother's, was held back by his father's bandana, but in the firelight it seemed to glow like embers.
-I'm ready- Arain continued, standing up. Caius followed suit, grabbing his sword and heading for the entrance to the hut. Arain followed in silence.
-I'm proud of you boy- he said, when they reached the portal -Do honor to your family.
-I honor my teacher- he replied, giving him a quick bow. Caius put a hand on his shoulder as a sign of conciliation, then led him through the portal.