Part One: The Slumber
Chapter Two
By L u f i a
One thing good about RedXIII was that no explanation was needed when he was around.
After seeing Cloud hunched up on Barret's shoulder, he silently nodded and shushed everyone else on the Tiny Bronco who would have made a big fuss otherwise. Tifa was very much thankful for the quiet ride towards the nearest town, Kalm.
Aeris had fainted as Cloud brought down his sword on her head. Fortunately, Barret had reached Cloud and hit him hard on the head with his gun arm before he could have inflicted a severe damage on Aeris. Tifa shuddered at the memory.
Barret didn't say a word during the ride home, either. He avoided eye contact with anyone and after dumping Cloud onto the plane; he just sat on one corner and refused to speak.
Tifa was the one who held onto Aeris. She was a bit surprised at the lightness of her weight as she carried the fragile body towards the plane.
The men working near the forest had all stared at them when they came out.
Personal problem, or should I give ya a hand? He had asked. Barret grunted his answer no.
Yuffie almost burst into tears when she saw Cloud in his disheveled state. She had whined that it was all her fault. RedXIII quieted her down.
You found Aeris. He said with those meaningful intelligent eyes that always told you he knew. Tifa nodded. RedXIII turned his head away from Aeris. What a mess.
He must have known. Tifa didn't ask why he thought it was a mess. She figured he'd already know. And he did, too.
Back in town, Barret helped Tifa carry both Aeris and Cloud to the inn. The innkeeper, who was already familiar with the group, widened her eyes when she saw the two people with closed eyelids. Just make sure it's not contagious. She said generously.
Two beds were immediately made. Putting both under the cover, Tifa felt close to tears. I just don't get it Barret. She whispered. How can this be happening? I just hope Aeris don't remember that Cloud had tried to kill her with his own hands.
Barret sighed. He hadn't said anything during the ride. But in that silence, his mind seemed fully focused as if to think of something that would stop this maddening situation. His brows knotted together more deeply each time Tifa glanced his way. Tifa had wondered how he was taking the whole situation. Cloud wasn't himself again. That's it. It's not such a devastating situation at hand!
But you saw it! Tifa almost yelled, tears of frustration forming on the corner of her eyes. You saw it with your own eyes! How he lifted his sword and –
You two mind talking outside?
A firm voice interrupted behind them. Quickly, both of them turned around to see RedXIII standing on top of the staircase. He shook his head. Those two had a rough day tonight. They need their rest, you understand?
Tifa flushed and wiped the tears off her eyes. Yeah, you're right, RedXIII. With that, she stalked out of the room and down the stairs. RedXIII wasn't a fool. He sighed when he glanced at Barret standing with his head hung low. I understand how you must feel. But don't let your frustration sprayed on Tifa just because she isn't worried about Aeris as much as she is worrying about Cloud. She have her reasons, remember?
Barret looked at the two figures on the bed; from pale-faced Aeris to the solemn face of Cloud. I remember. Tifa is –
–Having a hard time of her own. Let her be. Right now, we have to think about waking up the two. RedXIII interrupted softly. Barret raised an eyebrow in surprise. Whadd'ya mean wake the two'? Ain't they gonna wake up on their own?
His question was answered by a slow, sad shake on the intelligent head of the animal.
RedXIII said. We have to figure out how to wake them up from their sleep. Their soul is still lingering at the City of Ancient.
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Shouldn't have overlooked them Barret Tifa
Maybe I should have taken care of them myself my deepest regret
I shouldn't have trusted a
Sephiroth stood with his body up in the air. He watched the whole scene. He saw how Cloud stared at Aeris, with his mind fully focused on Aeris. That was the perfect chance to control his mind. When his mind was full of something, it was easier to make that thought a target of his action. Fortunately, Cloud was thinking about Aeris.
Hmmm, this is getting interesting Sephiroth mused, glancing around at the City of Ancient.
He hadn't made any appearance when that big black guy and black-haired woman took Cloud and Aeris away.
He didn't want to show himself, the holy person, in front of mere pathetic humans. They were all sentenced death in his book. And further more, they would try to attack him that would be fatal in the world of Ancient. He would be subjected to scarring the holy place and he would be condemned from calling out the black materia. Of course, he had his jenova cell' with him. It would fight for him. But he had discovered something interesting.
Hmmm?
Sephiroth's eyes focused on the small materia lying on the white floor of the altar.
It was different from the ones the pathetic humans carried on their weapons. This one was glowing in light green. A very pale green.
Sephiroth landed on the altar in an instant and with a single wisp of his right hand, he placed the weird materia into his palm.
Hmmm, very interesting
This was his lucky day
The very materia he had wanted to get his hands on
It was his for good.
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The last thing Aeris remembered was Cloud's tortured face. The dark glimmer in his bright blue eyes as he brought down his sword at –
Me.
Aeris slowly stood up from the floor.
Where am I?
The place seemed quite familiar. Then it came to her.
Oh, that's right the City of Ancient
She was still at the City of Ancient. Where she had last been, praying and silently pondering about the planet. The altar looked the same, and the gentle movement of the water below and the soft atmosphere of the place were all the same as she had seen it last time she was here.
But where was everyone else?
Aeris tried to remember. She had been prayingthat she could remember clearly, but what happened after Tifa screamed and Cloud brought down his sword at her was all a blur to her.
What happened? She murmured, squinting through the misty air of the place. No, she was wrong. Something was definitely wrong. Something vital and important. A sudden headache on her forehead made Aeris wonder whether Cloud had somehow inflicted some damage on her. Did he? She was not so sure. Where is everybody? Why am I alone
Aeris felt a wisp of cold air pass by her side.
Opaque atmosphere felt cold. Very cold
...I gotta figure out what am I doing here quick Aeris murmured and brushed her front hair aside. Or else, I'll be staying here forever.
Aeris flopped off the alter and made her way over the staircase. If she remembered correctly, the atmosphere of the city wasn't so cold. Now, it felt like sharp edges of ice. Aeris slightly shivered. The air had grown thick and quite suffocating. The place seemed empty and hollow like a cave made out of iceberg, yet Aeris could feel the air tightening around her body.
Aeris reached the top of the staircase.
Something was different. Aeris got out of the small shell house and glanced about.
She weakly called out. are you here, Cloud?
Just sharp gushing wind answered her calls. Frustrated, Aeris tried to calm herself. She was used to dangers. She had always been ready to step forth on her own. She wasn't afraid of being alone. She was strong and
Noyou are not strong
Aeris felt her eyes moisten.
Meeting Cloud knowing him getting to know each other all these things made her realize how weak herself was how much she was pretending to the others
Aeris' legs gave away under her. She flopped down; her legs folded and stared ahead with vacant expression.
Now that she realized how much she had enjoyed and gotten used to companionship with her friends, Aeris wasn't sure she could get out of this danger alone.
I am scared, Cloud She murmured, unable to stop the tears form streaming down. I don't want to be alone by myself now
Then, sudden dizziness hit her head. The place seemed like swerving in ugly circle in front of her eyes. Then, she collapsed on the cold ground.
She didn't hear the distant howl of the wild beasts nearby as the darkness slowly misted over her eyes.
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Cloud jerked his head up. He thought he was in pain. No, he thought someone else he knows was in pain.
Where did I get that sensation?
Slowly, Cloud shook his head and tried to clear it. He felt quite groggy as if he had been drinking. The muscle in the back of his neck felt strained and side of his forehead burned.
What happened?
Cloud tried to focus his vision. For a moment, he felt with a pang that he had gone blind. But, as the surrounding slowly adjusted itself in his eyes, he relaxed.
Wait a minute
Cloud quickly got up from his position. The disturbing sensation crept back at the pit of his stomach as he looked around the place. His heartbeat quickened.
Isis this where I had been last?
There was no mistake in what he was seeing. It was the city of Ancient all right but something has definitely changed. The deserted place seemed almostlively.
Aeris? Barret? Tifa? Cloud feebly called out, deciding to find his friends first. He took a step forward. Where is everyone? He wondered, glancing around once more.
How'd he get here? The last place he had been was the altar with Aeris. Whatever the reason, he was no longer there. He was standing alone in the sleeping forest. The thick trees looked down at him. The vast sky peeked in at him over their heads. Sighing, Cloud leaned on one of the trees and tried to sort through his mind.
He couldn't understand what was going on nor did he comprehend the disappearance of his friends.
Am I being too paranoid or is someone watching me?
Cloud looked around. He certainly felt like someone was there, among those dark hovering trees.
No, I am being ridiculous.
But his instinct as SOLDIER kicked in his blood, making him realize that there was indeed someone else other than himself.
And it didn't feel like friendly one. A hostile creature. It felt like numerous monsters he fought before.
Suddenly, a sudden light burst right in front of him, knocking him down to the ground. He was being attacked!
Cloud quickly leapt to his feet and drew his huge sword in a single motion.
Another lightening flashed. Cloud was far more ready than last time.
To the right! His head screamed.
Cloud dodged the light in a nick of time, falling to the ground in the process. What the hell is going around here? Cloud cried, bracing himself from yet another blow. This was insane! Whoever it is, they were attacking like crazy, obviously thinking he is the enemy.
He posed himself to get up. At this rate, it was just matter of time before he meet his doom. Gripping his sword, he looked up.
His heart froze. His eyes widened.
His eyes traveled further and further up until his neck couldn't take it anymore.
It was obvious that he missed to notice the assailant because he failed to realize that the giant trees standing around him was –alive.
They were not only alive but they were also attacking him!
It said in authoritive, yet inhuman voice, as Cloud looked around at the trees surrounding him. His heartbeat tripled.
[YOU ARE TO BE ELIMINATED. YOU WILL NOT LEAVE THIS PLACE UNLESS YOU ARE ELIMINATED AS DUST
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Reno took out a cigarette box from his pocket. The pack was empty. In disgust, he threw the annoying thing on the ground and looked around him. Elena and Rude, seated across from him, didn't budge.
They were inside the Shinra building. It was the president's summon.
The room was empty except for themselves. The body of Tseng was found in the Temple of Ancient and now, he would only be recorded in Shinra's book of employee. Nothing more. No funeral or ceremony. Tseng would only recorded as a man working for the Shinra.
Reno glanced at Elena. Despite the fact that her love has disappeared, she didn't throw any emotional tantrum that kind of amazed him.
Elena was one of them, but Reno had a little faith in her as a member. Unlike others, Elena still had a soft side on her, which was fatal drawback as the Turks. Tseng had said he'd have to see for himself what she could accomplish as the Turks. But now that he's dead, Reno would never be able to comprehend what Tseng meant or thought of her.
It didn't matter either. Their leader was dead. Shinra wouldn't care or hold responsible for his death. Witnessing death must be common to them so they wouldn't mind seeing another one. Of course, Reno was used to it to. But not someone close to him. Someone he respected and admired of.
Reno looked at Rude. As usual, Rude showed absolutely NO trauma in his feature. It might have been because of his dark sunglasses covered most of his face. Reno doubted that he would feel sorry for Tseng.
Finally, someone opened the door.
I can hardly believe that the Turks would mourn for somebody. Rufus mocked, stepping inside. The three Turks stood up slowly.
Quite bold, Reno remarked with a bitter smile. We could have ripped you apart then and there, right on that spot.
Rufus raised one eyebrow. Killing me isn't a solution to Tseng's death. He was just unlucky.
How nice of you. Elena said coldly. But it sounds ironic, coming outta your mouth.
I didn't come here to lick your sad little wound. Rufus replied, giving a stone cold stare. My coming here is strictly business.
What makes you think that we'll work under you again after what you put Tseng through? Reno growled. Rufus waved his hand. I don't want to make any excuse. What's done is done. Shinra can't take responsibility for every little death. He looked across at them keenly. Besides, I thought the Turks could take care of themselves. Was I wrong? Did you need a babysitter?
Reno lunged forward but Rude quickly held him back. Rufus was amused. I take that as a He slowly advanced the three. And I believe that you won't let his death go by meaninglessly. He continued in a smooth voice.
Elena crossed her arms across her chest. What do you mean?
Rufus started to circle the room. What if it wasn't MY fault? Tseng certainly wasn't a careless guy. I know that man. He pointed out. What if he was attacked by far more skilled people? Don't you want to avenge him? In other words, Rufus' cool green eyes met with Reno's. Rather than putting meaningless blame on me, don't you think you should put it on somewhat more likely individual whom you can take your revenge? Hmm?
Rude released Reno. Straightening his jacket, Reno looked straight at Rufus. What's your game this time? He asked cautiously.
Rufus' face broke into an evil grin. Get the Ancient. This will be your last mission if it goes well.
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Red XIII slowly came down the stairs of the inn. The rest of the group was waiting by at the bottom of the stairs.
Tifa quickly advanced forward. She prompted.
Red XIII shrugged a little. As I said before, it isn't a normal slumber. I checked their eyelids. Both of them certainly are not taking a light snooze, I can say that much. He slowly looked around. If it goes like this, they might never be able to locate their body. They might never wake up. He said gravely.
Tifa sucked in her breath. I don't know what you are saying, Red. What is going on? She asked in a trembling voice. Nothing happened back there. If there was a problem, it was on Cloud. He had lost his control again. But how come Aeris is in that state too?
Barret put his hand on her shoulder to calm her but she shook it off. Tell me! She cried.
No, I won't stop! Tifa shouted, unable to stop the tears. It feels almost like years now! I was always afraid that this kind of thing would happen. When I am with Cloud, I was always afraid. She said in deep emotion. Her lips were trembling. I was always afraid that he would run away, leave me behind and never return! Sure, I laugh and I talk jokes and stuff, but you don't know what I always had in my heart! Yuffie and Cid lowered their heads.
To me, it's like having a bomb at the pit of my stomach Tifa wailed, her voice caught in her throat. It's like a bomb continuing to tick
Tifa's voice trailed off, leaving the hollowness behind. She slowly started to weep softly, covering her face.
Everyone stood there, unable to move, unable to speak. As much as seeing Tifa like this for the first time, they didn't know how do console her or approach her.
and goes kaboom', huh? Someone spoke up softly. Surprised, Tifa jerked her tear stricken face towards the speaker. Everyone turned to the direction of the voice. Vincent seemed perfectly at ease even when the situation was quite hopeless.
What? Were you expecting something less dramatic? He asked, his piercing eyes focused on Tifa.
There was no ridiculing in his voice. It was just a deep voice that somehow calmed the hearts of people. Since it was him who spoke up, everyone was quite amazed and therefore, remained silent.
If that's the situation, then I advice you to let it explode. He continued. His sharp gaze faltered for a while. But not now. It's not over yet. At least, not in my book.
Barret felt a little foam of hope building inside. You mean you know the way to bring them back?
Vincent shook his head. I don't know it.
The foam sizzled off.
Yuffie pouted. Then why are you acting so big?
Vincent regarded her in an odd expression. Because I know where to start looking. He said.
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Something wet and warm brushed by her cheeks.
Aeris stirred slightly, not knowing what that thing was. Again, it sniffed her hair, her neck and her jacket. It gave a disdainful scoff and growled.
Aeris moaned a little. The sniffing ceased and seemed to take a step back. Then, slowly, it advanced forward and began to sniff around again.
Slowly, Aeris opened her eyes. Her eyes first focused on the starry night sky. She heard the soft crackling of burning of woods nearby and finally, her gaze settled on something dark that had two menacing eyes. Seeing that she had woken up, it stared at her a moment before giving a loud bark at her.
Almost leaping out of her skin, Aeris cried, bracing herself.
Heel, Kappi. Heel. Came a gentle, but firm voice. Immediately, the animal ceased the barking and trotted away towards the voice.
Calming herself, Aeris' eyes followed the middle-sized dog and her eyes fell on some figure sitting next to the fireplace. Her eyes traveled upwards until she was met with cool gray eyes of total stranger.
The man gave a slight grin when their eyes met. So, you've finally decided to live after all? He asked, rubbing the dog affectionately.
Aeris didn't say anything for a moment, studying his features. His straight red hair tied behind, the man had a soft gray eyes and sharp nose. He looked around twenty and wore a black jacket and heavy-looking army boots. He had a bandaged left hand and the other, gloved. A sharp looking sword rested on the ground beside him and small backpack near it.
Aeris suddenly realized that she was staring and averted her gaze away in embarrassment. She replied. She started to sit up but the dog gave another fierce bark towards her, forcing her to lie down. The man gave a light chuckle. I think he's saying you shouldn't move for a while. He said.
I've noticed. Aeris muttered with a slight shudder. He glanced at the dog with warmth. This is Kappi, my loyal companion. He introduced. Then he turned to her. And I am called Lance. Pleased to make your acquaintance.
I am Aeris. She said smiling weakly. Pleased to make yours, Lance.
You were lucky. He said. Aeris raised an eyebrow. When I got here, you were surrounded by wolves, licking their lips. He patted the dog's head. Kappi came to your rescue as soon as he saw you lying there helpless. You should thank him.
In response, Kappi wagged his tail.
Aeris was still confused but decided to think about it later. Or better yet, ask Lance about it. Thank you, Kappi. She said politely. The dog barked once and dropped down on his two paws. Lance laughed. I should have known. I should have realized that he likes you the moment he ran for your rescue. Lance's looked at Aeris. He usually minds his business.
Aeris shifted under the blanket. what are you doing here? Isn't this the City of Ancient?
Lance lifted his finger. Used to be. Now, it's just a mere ruin of some sort. I come here to stare at the skies sometimes. He leaned back, looking up. It's the perfect place to camp, you know. And Kappi loves it.
Aeris opened her mouth to speak then shook her head.
How could this be? She looked at Lance, still looking up. What does he mean by used to be?
Aeris tried another way. What about the excavation men? They are supposed to be digging right beyond this point. Even it's night; there must be some sort of lamplight or something. But, I don't see anyone there. Aeris pointed out, glancing to her left. The entrance of the Sleeping forest was partially visible among the leafless tree trunks. It almost looked like what Lance said.
A mere ruin.
Lance was mildly confused. well, I heard that they excavated something underneath the earth. I heard it was some sort of jewel –I have no idea. But that thing summoned some monster which is now one of the problems to eliminate.
Aeris was getting more and more confused. I never heard it. When did it happen?
About 4 years ago. Lance replied. Aeris threw away her blanket and set up upright from the ground. Kappi started to bark but Lance put his hand on his collar to steady him.
When he looked back at her, he noticed that she was trembling uncontrollably. Hey, are you all right he asked, uneasily.
Aeris stared straight ahead. You are lying She murmured through her trembling lips. Lance scratched the back of his head. Well, I wouldn't say lying. I just have poor memory. It could have been three years I am not so sure.
You are lying! Aeris cried hotly. Kappi barked once more but Lance held him back. He turned to Aeris once more.
I don't lie. Besides, why would I lie? And funny you get so excited over that cuz it really happened long time ago. There's not an iota of people who haven't heard of The Surd', which was resurrected from this site. He realized that Aeris was shivering.
He quickly went over and knelt beside her and covered her shoulders with the blanket. Are you all right? He asked, looking at her.
Aeris didn't hear his question. Small knot of uneasiness tightened at the bottom of her heart, growing bigger and bigger by the minute.
Aeris gripped the blanket till her knuckles went white.
I must be dreaming. This couldn't be true!
She screamed frantically in her head.
Strong nausea hit her head hard. Aeris almost fell forward from the dizziness. Lance quickly grabbed her shoulders and steadied her.
This can't be happening
Tears formed at the side of her eyes.
There was a small pause. Lance stared at her for a while before finally asking, What is it?
Aeris gulped, the tears now running freely. She thought she had cried enough for the last 22 years of her life. But still, it wasn't enough.
Tell me, Lance She whispered. When did Rufus, the President of Shinra get elected?
Lance paused for a while, thinking. Aeris knew that she was right.
But still, she wanted to make sure.
It was about 41 years ago, Aeris. He said finally.
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Cloud's whole body froze.
The tree was talking!
How amusing Cloud didn't crack a smile.
He was dropped into the small world, confused out of his skull and now, a talking tree was attacking him with no apparent reason.
Normally if it was just one stomp of tree, he wouldn't have any trouble slashing into pieces of firewood. But, standing in the middle of the circle of the trees that was closing in on him, Cloud realized that there was zero chance of winning.
Cloud frantically looked around for some means of escape. In response, the tree zapped his lightening at his direction again. Cloud barely missed it but felt a slight pain on his right shoulder.
Damn! I gotta think!
Cloud gritted his teeth as another thunder cracked and barely missed his feet. He quickly swung his sword at the tree near him.
With a lout crack, the tree was chopped into half.
Cloud cried leaping out of the way as the thick trunk of the tree crashed down.
This'll go on forever! Cloud cried, blocking himself with his sword. The lightening hit the sword hard and Cloud felt the severe vibration ringing through the sword. He gulped. If he would ever get hit by that lightening directly
He could be a toast in a second!
Wait a minute
Cloud dodged the branch that swung at him in full force.
They were talking trees Cloud cut the branch in a flash and quickly leapt back. Which means
Hey, wait a minute! Cloud cried urgently. To his enormous relief, he noticed that the trees halted their movements briefly before attacking at him again.
I am serious! Please, listen to me! Cloud cried once more. I am not your enemy! I –I don't know where the hell I am, although I have some vague recollection that this was supposed to be the sleeping forest!
The trees stopped their attack. Cloud stood, breathing heavily. Sweat tickled down at the side of his face. Wiping his cheek, Cloud realized that it was not his sweat. Thick red blood was smudged on his palm.
Cloud looked up once more, panting. I am not here to fight. He said, dropping both arms to his side. Please, say something.
The trees were still silent. As if contemplating whether to believe him or not, they stood with their branches poised to attack any minute. Cloud stood, trying to slow down his breath.
He pleaded. Believe me. I don't intend to fight without a reason.
The trees remained where they stood. Then, Cloud heard a clear voice behind him.
Don't turn. It said. And don't move either. I'll have to take in your word but you are still suspicious. I'll have to report you to the Elders. Without turning around, walk straight ahead. The voice continued close to him. If you make any move to look back or sneak a attack, I'll kill you on that spot. Mind that.
Cloud muttered. He started to walk as the voice directed at him. Judging from the voice, it seemed like a young female. Yet, the hint of authority was unmistakable.
Just who are you? Were you controlling the trees just now? Cloud asked, walking along the path. The path had appeared out of nowhere. Cloud noticed lot of footmarks along it.
The voice didn't answer for a moment. She answered shortly. Cloud dared to squint his eyes sideways to get a glimpse of a silk robe flapping behind him.
Quite impressive, controlling the natures as a means of defense. He tried again, intending to make a small conversation.
It's not controlling. The voice said in a firm voice. I never control anything. I merely ask for them to lend their hands to me whenever I am in trouble.
How would you know that I am your enemy? Cloud asked, curious. And plus, I never heard of anyone living here. You said elders, which means there is a village near here. Am I right?
The voice hesitated. You talk too much. She said. Cloud grinned. I am just curious.
The voice sighed. Well, if you promise to shut up after I answer your question, I'll tell you. She said. Cloud nodded.
The path lead them further down into some sort of valley. Beautiful trees that Cloud never saw was growing in full green and sound of million birds filled the sky above.
I knew you were not from here, that is, from my village, because of the way you dress and the way you carry a weapon. No one here uses a weapon. Anyone from outside means enemy to us. The voice said. And one more thing. No one from outside has ever come near the sleeping forest or the Sleeping Village. They never even set foot into our land. So, when I saw you, I figured you were an outsider.
Cloud was a bit confused. What are you saying? Sleeping Village? Where is that? Is it beyond the forest? He asked, feeling slightly uneasy.
The voice said sharply. No more talk. Just continue walking forward.
Cloud wanted to know more but decided it would be better to meet the so-called Elders if he wanted answers.
This was one paranoid chick. Cloud wondered what she looked like.
There it is. After some heavy silence and more walk, the voice said suddenly. Cloud squinted at the direction the voice indicated. Surprisingly enough, there really was a small village just beyond the valley. Peaceful puff of smoke densely welled up from the chimneys of several odd looking houses gathered around.
So there is a village here after all. Cloud thought to himself as he advanced further into the village. Cloud noticed two fierce looking men guarded the entrance of the village, blocking the path. They watched them approach the village with alertness.
What have you got there, Leigh? One of them called out. Who is this?
I have to take him to the Elders, Marco. The voice behind Cloud replied sternly. That's all I can say to you. Now, move aside before I make you.
The two men looked at each other before finally deciding to squirm out of the way. Be careful. Leigh. You've got a live one there. The other man muttered as they passed by him. I know what I am doing. Leigh said before she ordered Cloud to move forward.
So, your name is Leigh? Cloud asked as they passed by several houses. The village seemed quite big and peaceful. Small children wearing some worn-out robes were scampering around the village, screaming and giggling. There were several people going about with their businesses. Cloud briefly wondered why the houses were so old fashioned. They weren't even made out of bricks or metals. If anything, they were carefully sewed with plant stems.
Leigh seemed like she was not in a talkative mood today. Shut up. was all she said as they passed several more houses and still more curious eyes.
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The elders will be here shortly, Miss Leigh. A middle-aged lady said as she reappeared into their tent. Leigh nodded. Very well. She said. The lady stepped out without saying furthermore.
Cloud glanced around. The rectangular tent was quite roomy. It was filled with various worn-off books and candles. Some of them were laid open on the floor but Cloud could neither read nor understand what they contained. If he didn't know better, it looked like a child's scribble on a piece of paper.
Leigh ordered. Cloud obeyed, getting quite used to her brusque manner of speaking. Leigh sat across from him, moving aside some of the books carefully. Taking in the opportunity, Cloud finally set his eyes on the owner of that voice.
The robe that Cloud observed earlier loosely covering her from head to toe; Leigh was a woman of extraordinary air. Cloud couldn't pinpoint what but there were definitely an air of familiarity in her. The robe had covered her hair completely, but some of them came down the side of her face, showing it's wavy green color. Her face, particularly her purple-green eyes, had a sharp, penetrating gaze as she stared back at him. Cloud realized that she too was observing him.
Cloud didn't know what she thought of him but he judged her to be quite beautiful. Creamy white face and oval shaped face showed off her beauty while her firm lips and hard eyes proved her personality. Despite the silence between them, Leigh didn't once open her mouth to speak.
Cloud smiled. Now you trust me enough to face me one-on-one? He asked, starting to feel a little uncomfortable under her hostile gaze.
GeeJust as I thoughtice-cold beauty queen
You are in our authority now. She replied sternly. Whatever you do, it won't go far. It's not a trust, so don't misunderstand.
Cloud raised an eyebrow. Oh? And what if I take you hostage? He suggested, getting interested at where this was going. Leigh, on the other hand, didn't show any emotional change. We can take care of ourselves. Even in the hostage situation, they'll kill you nevertheless if you pull anything, even if it means sacrificing the unfortunate victim. She replied, not even blinking.
Cloud stared.
Whewthis one might be a little hard to deal with
I wouldn't dream of doing it, then. Cloud replied simply. Leigh nodded. She said and closed her mouth once more.
Just then, someone stepped into the tent. Leigh quickly stood with her head lowered but Cloud merely glanced up at the elderly man.
Can a person get THAT old? Cloud wondered as the wrinkled man nodded in Leigh's direction and looked at Cloud under his mane of snow-white hair. He had a long beard that reached down to the floor and still continued for another feet or two. He looked much too old to be called living'. But as Cloud met his gaze without blinking, a pair of piercing gray eyes among the wrinkles told complete different story to him.
No one spoke for a moment. The old man's gaze continued to stare into Cloud's mako green eyes until Cloud felt slightly confused. Leigh didn't make a sound, standing beside them.
Finally, Cloud slowly looked away. The old man sighed.
He's one of those humans, Leigh. He said after a pause. Both Cloud and Leigh looked at him. The old man collected his long beard and sat down, putting the coiled pile on his lap. Yes, he is a human. And I must say, he's a cyberdyne too.
Cloud was getting confused. What are you talking about? He asked cautiously. Cyberdyne? Never heard of it.
Leigh gave him a reprimanding look. Do not speak to The Elder in those manner! She said sharply. The old man didn't seem to mind.
He looked keenly at Cloud for a moment or two before finally turning to Leigh. You've brought a very interesting piece of human today, Leigh. Where did you find him?
Cloud was getting quite mad. Hey, I can understand too! Don't treat me as I am some kind of animal! He said hotly.
Damn, I'm sorry, Red. He thought, thinking about his fury red friend.
Leigh glared and opened her mouth to snap at him before the old man turned to Cloud.
I know that. You don't have to get so cross at me. He said. Now it was Leigh's turn to get mad. Elder! You know that you must not talk directly at those outsiders! It'll affect your health!
What difference does it make? I am sitting here right beside him. Now, tell me your name. He said with same monotonous tone. Cloud subdued his own. My name is Cloud Strife.
I am Yamji, one of The Elders of this Sleeping village.
Cloud nodded. Yes, Leigh told me. But He shook his head. I don't think I have time for this yet. I have to find my friends who are in The City Of Ancient. I really am sorry. He said.
Yamji looked at Leigh in a questioning way and Leigh lowered her head a little before she started to explain.
I found him at the Sleeping Forest, Elder. The way he acted seemed very suspicious so I asked for the Guardian of Trees to lend me a hand.
In other word, you attacked him. Yamji finished. Leigh looked a little embarrassed. He was suspicious. She repeated, but in a very small voice. Yamji shook his head and turned to Cloud.
Now, who are you looking for? I am afraid you are not going to find them here in the village or the Temple of Ancient because no humans have ever set foot on this land. In fact, I think you are the first one here.
Cloud caught himself from shouting. What are you saying? My friend Aeris was in the Temple of Ancient so Barret and Tifa accompanied me to go search for her there. Cloud said, looking from Leigh to Yamji.
His mind briefly flashed back to that painful scene and Cloud quickly erased it off of his head. He had to get a grip on reality.
Leigh shook her head and rolled her eyes while Yamji chuckled softly.
Maybe we have a communication problem here or you must have had some kind of weird dream. No human or Cyberdyne came to this part of land, young man. As I said, you are not like us, which put you in a different category. And plus, he put up his hand when Cloud tried to protest. –Plus, you weren't able to communicate with me just now with our eyes, which proves that you are not one of us at all.
Cloud was getting annoyed. You keep saying that over and over again, Elder, as if you or Leigh are not humans. He grumbled, frowning. Leigh jerked her head in his direction.
Don't you DARE put us on the same level as your lowly race! We are not humans! She cried, highly insulted.
Cloud looked at Yamji and he nodded a little. I wouldn't go that far but yes, it's true. We are not humans. Then he glanced up at Cloud and met him with the same serene expression.
Have you ever heard of the race called, The Cetra'?