Part One: The Slumber
Chapter Three
By L u f i a
Yuffie looked around the room. She scowled. Am I the only one around here who thinks Barret's choice of party lacks skillful fighter or is there any other person who thinks like me?
No one spoke for a moment.
The two body' of Aeris and Cloud was still in the room above. The party was STILL gathered under the bottom steps of the stairs with the innkeeper openly frowning at them. She was muttering something as she wiped the counter vigorously.
Barret scowled back. What's so damn wrong about this choice? Me, Vincent, Red and Tifa go over to check on this man Vincent was talking about and the rest of you stayin behind in case something comes up; what s the damn prob here? He shouted. Yuffie refused to let it go.
That leaves ME with that DUMB toy cat and disease-carrying cigar FREAK! She yelled impatiently.
Red XIII slowly shook his head and looked at Tifa. Here we go again
Tifa gave him a helpless look. Uh-huh, I'm afraid so. She said and turned back to the two.
Cid was not the one to stay behind when he was openly insulted. Hey, who're you calling a freak, you BRAT! It's none of yer damn business whether I smoke or not!
Yuffie turned towards Cid without hesitation. HA! I don't mind YOU getting all the disease but what about the person NEAR you getting effected by YOUR so-called Puff-Your-Lungs-Out?? She shouted, not bothering to lower her voice.
I would gladly take you to the other side of the grave with me if you DO get one. Cid sneered. It was Barret's turn to shake his head.
I think we are getting carried away He murmured. Tifa looked at him.
Yuffie was not finished with Cid. I'll burn every pack of yer cigar into crisp if it EVER gets near ME! She yelled.
Then YOU become crisp if that ever happens! Cid shouted back.
Uh, guys Tifa said uneasily.
Don't get so over-confident, Mister! You won't even come near me if I take off, cuz yer so SLOW! Yuffie shot back.
Can we get back to real issue here Red said.
HA! What a chicken! Thinking of running away even before putting up a fight! Cid snickered.
Red's right. Barret agreed.
Wha? A CHICKEN? Why you-!
Tifa said.
Ha! Look at you! Getting red like some turkey. You sure have something related to those kind of species.
Red said.
Both Yuffie and Barret yelled simultaneously. SHUT UP!!!
Vincent shook his head. What a mess. He muttered. Then he turned to the rest of the gang, who had fallen silent after the sudden outburst.
I think it's better to bring Yuffie with us. That way, we can shut her up without arguing like this. He turned to Tifa. And, you'll have to take Yuffie's place, Tifa. I think you wanted to stay behind anyway.
Tifa looked down. yeah. I really want to stay with Cloud. She said.
Barret clapped his hands. Alright then, it's decided. He announced. Cait Sith spoke up.
What are we gonna do anywayz? I was away when you guys discussed this.
Everyone groaned loudly. Oh, GEEZ! They chorused, frowning at the toy cat. Cait put on a rueful smile. Sorry, I had to do something outside. He batted his eyelashes at Barret.
Barret shook his head and muttered something inconspicuous before facing Cait again. Argg! All right, you got it. Vincent was talking about waking up those two sleepyheads upstairs. He knows someone who can give us a reasonable explanation about this crap we are going through. He briefly turned to Vincent. Oh, I forgot to ask. Who is it anywayz? Your pal?
Vincent regarded him with empty expression. He finally said. Barret shrugged and faced Cait again. Anyways, he's a loner who resides in someplace covered in ice. Dunno the location though. Barret turned to the reticent figure again but Vincent spoke before him. I don't know yet. I'll know once I get there.
You sure know how to make a person confused. Cid grumbled, fingering his cigar. He glanced down at it and looked at Yuffie. A slow, devilish grin appeared on his lips as he searched for his lighter on his jacket. Tifa, who stood beside him, spoke up.
I am not one of the team, but don't you think it's better for us to make sure where we're going and why before headed there?
Vincent looked down. All I know is that Cloud and Aeris is in trouble. I can sense their disturbance from far away.
Cait hopped with enthusiasm. Well, no use in stayin here thinking about this and that. We gotta move forward!
Yuffie grinned at him. What do you mean? You are stuck here! She reminded him, her eyes full of pride. You guys will be staying here like some useless bummer, ha ha ha!
Tifa exchanged knowing glances with the rest of the group.
Good luck everyone. She merely said, ignoring the hyena laugh Yuffie was pouring on and on.
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I don't know what Rufus is planning on doing with the Ancient. Elena remarked, glancing at the two men.
After the president spoke with them, the Turks were getting ready for a departure to the outskirts of Midgar. They knew whom they were going to encounter and they wanted to make sure they don't taste the bitter defeat like last time.
Rude made no comment but Reno shrugged, getting equipped. It's not our concern. He replied. She's our subject now, Elena. We don't need to think about their welfares. We only do what's told.
But I thought we were through hogging her. Elena argued, facing Reno. He geared his nightstick at his side and straightened his jacket.
Like I said, Elena, it's not our concern. That's not the way to be the Turks! He said impatiently. Rude shortly glanced at him before turning away without a word. He always seemed awfully occupied with his mind. Whatever he was thinking, Reno knew that he would never share it with anyone except himself. Sometimes, Rude seemed to know what was wrong and what was right better than Reno himself and that bothered him. It wouldn't hurt to obtain a personal opinion from someone as reticent as Rude but that man didn't bother to show his mind whether he liked it or not.
Elena, on the other hand, talked too much and he got the impression that she didn't trust her own judgment as much as Reno.
Then, why did she bother to become the Turks? Reno briefly wondered. She's a woman, for Pete's sake. Doesn't she even have a life?
Elena put on a disagreeable frown on her pretty face but didn't make any reply. Quite content that he had shut her up, Reno slowly looked around the Turks office then back at his two companions.
Are we ready? He asked.
Rude answered in a low voice and Elena nodded, brushing back her front hair. Where are we headed?
It's not decided yet. I've tried to contact Reeve and he was about to tell me his location when he suddenly went offline. Reno replied, furrowing his brows. He said he's going to contact me soon.
Elena looked a little concerned. Is he in trouble?
Reno shrugged. So what if he is? They won't be able to do anything to that stuffed toy. And plus, we've got Barret's girl. They won't be able to pull anything.
Elena briefly remembered the small girl who was brought here at the HQ four days ago. She didn't look much like Barret but she had chatted non-stop about him. Elena had felt a small pang inside her stomach as she gazed down at the small girl between two guards. The little one seemed to have no idea where she was and didn't look bothered by the place at all.
Using such an innocent being as a hostage How much lower will they get? Would I be able to get through these amateur quality emotions and become the true Turks?
For the first time, Rude stirred. Hey, Reno. Don't you think it's better for Reeve to stop using his stuffed spy? He doesn't like the idea of being a spy anyways. He said slowly. He said it gets on his nerves.
Quickly, Reno searched through his expression for any sign of concern in his face but he couldn't find any. If he was having second thought about hounding the Avalanche, he didn't show it.
We'll see, Rude. We'll see. He replied, putting on his sunglasses. But right now, we need Reeve the way he is. Even if he doesn't like the idea anymore and getting all mushy because of the way they treat him, still, he's stuck there with us. It's not an option. He said in a business-like voice.
Elena frowned a little. Why didn't YOU take the job of being a spy and get all the petty feelings? She asked crossly.
Reno put on a charming grin. 'Cuz I know what I am doing. He replied.
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Barret's gang had left for the continent north from here.
Putting on some extra shirts and sweaters in their luggage, they bid farewell to the rest of the group staying behind and took off in Cid's Tiny Bronco. Barret insisted that they would be just fine, riding that thing without Cid. Tifa watched the tiny plane steer into the horizon and then with a sigh, headed back to the inn.
Kalm town was very peaceful and it soothed her frayed nerves. Tifa was glad that she decided to stay behind. If she had gone with the others, she would be biting her nails and going ballistics.
The beautiful layers of colors painted the vast sky in deep red. Tifa took a long look at it, taking in the cool breeze that brushed by her side.
Yes, it was very peaceful.
But did she feel peaceful and calm within herself?
Tifa sighed again and walked back to the inn slowly.
Cait was nowhere to be seen but Tifa knew that Cid was sitting by their bedside in the darkness, smoking as usual. She silently made her way upstairs. The wooden stairs made a low squeaking sound as she ascended.
Cid was sitting between the two beds, staring into space. The first time Tifa met him, he struck her as stubborn and foul-mouthing middle-aged man. But as their journey continued and they spent more and more time together, Tifa couldn't help but recognize the kind-hearted man residing within.
Cid himself looked like he wanted to hide this inner self. But, when it's so obvious that he's pretending to be harsh, who wouldn't see through his deception?
Even Yuffie saw through him. Maybe that's why she's taking advantage of him. Tifa smiled thinly despite the situation.
A silent silhouette didn't seem to know her presence. He blew another ring of smoke, sighing.
Tifa made a small advance towards him. She whispered.
Quickly, Cid jumped up and scrambled on his feet. Y –yes? He cried. Then he noticed Tifa. His face relaxed a notch. Damn, it's you! Don't scare me like that! He said severely. Tifa stifled a laugh. She briskly walked up to him and sat on another chair next to Cid. What are you doing? It's dark in here. She commented, looking at Cid sideways.
Slowly, Cid sat back down. Yeah, I feel like sitting in the dark. He muttered. Then, he raised an eyebrow. Hey, where's that damn cat? Wasn't he with you?
Tifa shook her head a bit. I thought he was with you. Oh well, leave him alone. I think he's been acting like that since our visit to gold saucer.
Cid scoffed. Dunno what he's made of, but he sure likes to act suspicious. Then, he paused for a moment. Damn, it's so quiet around here. Gets on my nerve. He muttered, impatiently shaking off the cigarette end.
Tifa grinned, thinking of the way he was sitting before she intruded on him. Really? I like it. I enjoy the peace and quietness because I hardly had time to enjoy one. She lowered her head a bit. The strand of her long dark hair fell on to the side of her face. I certainly didn't have one ever since I joined the Avalanche.
Cid coughed a little. Damn, what was he supposed to say?
Like he felt before when she broke off in front of everyone, Cid didn't know how to make women feel comfortable or better when feeling down. Fortunately, Tifa didn't stay like that for long. She raised her face and smiled.
Quite a life, huh? I wish when this is over, I can settle down like a normal women of my age and well stuff. She finished lamely.
A quick blush flowered on her cheeks. Cid looked away. Well, don't go all carried away. We still have things to do, you know. He said in a serious tone. Tifa's smile faded.
She said in a small voice.
They sat in silence for some moment. Tifa thought it was best to leave him alone and started to stand up when Cid spoke up.
Do you know what I was thinking just now? He asked in a surprisingly serene expression on his face. Tifa looked at him. She asked.
Cid smiled, looking far away with his sea blue eyes. Hell, no. That spike's gonna wake up sooner or later. I know it. He glanced at another figure on the bed. I am talking about Aeris.
Tifa remained silent. Cid continued.
You know That gal's too outspoken for my taste and she's all too hyper. But then, she can be dead serious or confusing at times so I dunno what to make of her. He said with an amused smile on his sunburnt face. But, I didn't realize howhow should I put ithow precious her being here with us is. I dunno, her mere presence tells me that.
Tifa didn't say anything. Maybe she didn't want to interrupt him. For her, it was the first time he ever spoke in such a serious manner.
With such open face.
Just before we were heading for Wutai, you remember doncha? That carp ran away with our materia. Well, that timeI talked to her for a brief moment. She said, Cid, is airship very big? I kinda felt like bragging so I replied it was HUGE baby. She loved my response. She made me promise to take her in the airin my ship. He took a long drink of his cigar. I dunno. I was just thinking about that time. She giggles and we laugh, she gets serious and we get serious.
He pointed his cigar-end at Cloud. Spike here also acted like a kid when she was around. Even Barret. Well, he's mostly made of rubber so it ain't so hard to melt him Cid shifted his right leg on his left knee and leaned back, blowing another ring of smoke. She had a way with people. Maybe it's in her genes, huh?
Tifa smiled, small tears forming on the side of her eyes. Yes, Cid. She was very precious. She's still precious to us. I wish they'd come back to us quick Slowly, she wiped her eyes. I wonder what would have happened when Barret didn't stop Cloud? She briefly closed her eyes. Sorry, I didn't mean to think like that, Cid. I don't want to even think that they are unconscious
they arein reality, right? Cid finished for her in a gentle voice. Tifa nodded slowly.
Cid stood up. Why don't we think in a brighter way? Barret's team will soon find the cause of this madness and bring them back to reality in no time. He said with his usual confidence. The gentle voice was gone. His former glint in his eyes told her that the old Cid was back. Tifa smiled for him. Of course, Cid. Of course. She said.
Cid reached over and patted her shoulder. Be brave. He said before he went over and climbed down the stairs, leaving her behind.
Tifa sat in silence.
Cid's words were still ringing in her head.
I didn't know how precious her being here with us is
Did Cloud feel the same way towards her? Did he feel that she was needed and that's why he fell for her?
Tifa slowly stood up. Looking down at Cloud's peaceful face, Tifa couldn't help but feel a small ache in her heart.
Why aren't you waking up, Cloud? Don't you want to see me? Don't you want to be here with us?
Tifa stared down at him for a moment. Then slowly, she bent down.
Her lips gently met with his. Tifa closed her eyes and let the tears fall onto his cheeks.
Please come back to us Cloud
And when he wakes upthis time, she wouldn't stay like a puppet.
I won't hold back. I'll tell him how I feel about him. Tifa vowed, slowly straightening up.
Just wake up, Cloud. She whispered. I'll be waiting
The afternoon sun slowly disappeared beyond the horizon, slowly painting the sky with darkness.
The silhouette of Tifa stood there for a long time, unmoving.
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The City of Ancient looked like someone exploded it with bombs.
Aeris couldn't remember the last time she saw so many debris lying on the ground like this.
I don't believe this Will the City of Ancient turn into a mere ruin in near future?
Aeris shook her head.
No, she won't let it happen. She would try to stop the digging when she gets back to her time. Lance had told her about the jewel and the type of monster that thing had summoned.
The Surd' was a huge dragon-like monster that had been asleep under the digging site for a long time. He explained that it had been sleeping for about 100 years until the summon jewel was discovered 4 years ago and a greedy man tried to control the world with it's power. Unfortunately, it didn't work out for him. It's been said that only the warrior with a pure heart would be able to use this jewel of Summon.
Obviously, the man's greed turned the creature into a demonic figure, it's mind full of destruction. After the monster went out of control, the people found the dead body of the man not far away from this place.
It still roams the world, destroying houses and killing mass number of innocent people at the most unexpected time.
Aeris walked along the faint path of the City of Ancient, thinking about such desire to have the power to control this poor creature.
Only if she could return to her timeshe would surely stop him being used as mere destruction of the planet. She would gladly find the warrior for this creature and meet it's purpose with the right kind of mind.
Aeris brushed back her front hair and half closed her eyes, feeling the gentle breeze of the morning air.
She no longer felt the holy presence around this area. That saddened her but she knew that this place would not remain untouched forever.
Some day, sometime, a human's feet will eventually touch the ground and they will probably mess up the place.
Like now
You are up early. Somebody spoke behind her. With a strained smile, Aeris turned.
It's my habit. I am sorry, have I awaken you, Lance? She asked with a rueful smile. Lance shook his head.
Nah, I always wake up this early. I was awake when you got up.
I see Aeris suddenly heard a low rumbling sound from her stomach.
Seeing her blush, Lance laughed. I prepared some meal back at the camp. Why don't you join me? He asked, an impish glimmer in his eyes. Embarrassed, Aeris started to follow Lance back to the campsite.
Are you sure that's enough for you and Kappi? Aeris asked when she took the plate of light meal from Lance. His share was incredibly small. She certainly didn't want to starve the poor animal because of her.
Kappi didn't seem to mind. He munched on his share without comment. Lance laughed. It's ok! C'mon, it's not much but I think you can't say you don't like the taste cuz I cook pretty well. He said with pride. Besides, we'll be breaking camp today and return back to the town.
Aeris looked down.
Lance hadn't asked where she was from or what was she doing in this ruin. He seemed to be choosing for a right time to open the subject.
How am I going to explain this to him? Will he believe me?
It's alright if you don't have a place to stay, Aeris. You can return back with me, if you want. Lance quickly offered, trying to make her feel comfortable. Aeris hesitated.
Don't you want to know who I am first? She asked in a small voice. Lances' smile didn't falter. Should I? He asked in a teasing way.
Aeris had to laugh. No, it's not that kind of thing. I just wanted to prove that I am not someone suspicious. She said quickly.
Just old fashioned, huh? He asked, eyeing the pink dress, which had gotten quite dirty. Aeris felt her face reddening. yeah, kind of.
Lance threw back his head and laughed. Gee! You are SO naïve! Don't you feel insulted or anything, Aeris? He asked, spooning his food.
Aeris put on an amused smile. Nope. I think that's perfectly natural judging by the fact that I DID come from the past.
The spoon halted in mid-air. Lance sat there with his mouth open. For a moment, he stared at her for a moment before putting down his spoon and shifting himself upright.
He asked in disbelief.
Aeris coughed. I didn't want to tell you until I sort out what's happening here butBut I think that can wait, since you intend to bring me along. She explained, hoping for a miracle.
What if Lance finds this unbelievable? Then what?
Go on. Lance urged in a gentle voice. Aeris gathered up her courage and took a deep breath.
Okay, here goes.
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Cloud stared at Yamji for a long moment.
His mind flashed back at Aeris, the sole survivor of the Ancient.
The only survivor.
What's happening here? Didn't Aeris say that she was the last one of that race?
Yamji and Leigh waited in silence as Cloud tried to sort out his confused mind.
Yamji's short word had hit him hard and it wasn't just because other Cetra existed. No, it was much more than that.
I know what Cetra is. Cloud said slowly. He lowered his gaze, away from Yamji. Though I thought they weren't living anymore
Leigh's face flushed in red. How dare you! Cetras live longer lives than you humans!
Yamji held out his hand. Enough, Leigh. Let me take care of this.
Some silence followed.
Cloud shut his eyes and tried to erase that this was happening to him. If he'd open his eyes, everything will be back to normal. Tifa and others would be waiting for him just beyond the forest. Aeris would still be with him, talking about Cid's plane.
When he did open his eyes, he realized that it was the reality he'd tried to erase.
Yamji watched him with understanding eyes though it looked like even he found this hard to comprehend. He asked, with genuine concern. Cloud nodded slowly. Yes. And I am ready to listen.
Then I'll begin. Yamji glanced at Leigh who showed little interest in this whole situation. As usual, she was preoccupied in thinking about herself. She rarely associated with village people and it wasn't surprising that she didn't show any interest in this human.
Our race starts from about 1000 years ago. Though we'd existed centuries after centuries, no one knew of our presence because we were extremely cautious. Our people were always afraid that someone would try to destroy our culture. We had access to outside world but humans didn't have access to our land, which was out greatest advantage. We liked the way we lived and didn't want to stain it with dirty lives of humans. We blocked the entrance of the Sleeping Forest with a special spell and thus prevented from outsiders from intruding unexpectedly.
That's why you said no humans ever set foot on this land, right? Cloud asked, putting the missing puzzles in his confused head. Yamji nodded in confirmation. Leigh remained silent.
What you said about Cetra becoming extinct well, we were expecting that day sooner or later. He said, his expression unchanged. Leigh quickly raised her head. She cried. You can't say that! Even in the worst predicament, our people are ready to survive! Don't you have any faith in them? Why are you sticking to your own prognostication when others say otherwise?
Even the highest soothsayers have their doubts. I am not saying I am absolutely certain that day will come. I am only predicting Yamji rubbed his tired eyes slowly. Leigh's opinion about Cetra living longer lives was no bluff. Cloud gazed at his wrinkles that almost covering his eyes. Dark sun burnt skin made quite a contrary with his snow-white beard. He looked like a soothsayer all right.
It was obvious that Leigh didn't like what she was hearing. Then, you feel that our race will become
Yes, Leigh. But let us cover that in other times. Now, Cloud needs an explanation. He soothed, nodding his head. Then he turned to Cloud.
That's our story so far.
Cloud was still confused. Who's Cyberdyne? He asked. You told me I was Cyberdyne. What is it?
Yamji laughed shortly. My, my, you came from different all right. Otherwise, you wouldn't be asking me this. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Well, I always hear the outside news from young messengers of the village so I can't say I am pretty knowing myself.
Is itsome kind of robots? Cloud urged. Although he was grateful that Yamji was taking time to answer all this confusing elements, Cloud didn't want to waste time.
No, son. Cyberdyne' doesn't mean literally. It's a group of humans in this era. They separated themselves from human race and created their own, developing whole new bundle of unwanted technology. I heard that they invented some kind of ship that can fly. Yamji glanced at Cloud from head to toe. When I saw how you were dressed, I just assumed that you were one of them. You are dressed quite odd compared to us simple Cetra, you know.
Cloud remained silent. After realizing the situation he was plunged into, he didn't think he'd be any more surprised than he already is. Still, hearing Yamji's explanation, Cloud couldn't help but feel numb at this sudden news. Of course, they were no longer called Cyberdyne' or anything that out-of-place but it was true technology developed speedily over the years. New transportations and machines.
The Hi-Technology Corporation called Shinra.
Cids' airship
The last surviving ancient
It only confirmed one thing that Cloud feared.
The only reasonable yet unbelievable answer
Cloud felt his heart beating faster and faster as he slowly lowered his gaze to stare at the ground.
I
I am in the past
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The snow-covered continent Vincent referred to was located near the bone village.
The tiny Bronco had malfunctioned a bit when Barret tried to steer it onto the landing site so they had to leave the poor thing above sea level and had to walk towards the beach.
You s-should have b-b-brought C-Cid! Yuffie gasped through her chattering teeth. W-We wud h-h-have landed h-h-here w-without g-g-gettin a-all wet!
They were standing on the snow-covered region. Because they didn't bother to dry their wet shoes, the cold wind was freezing the hell outta all of them except Red.
Throwing her a dirty look, Barret opened his bag and took out several sweaters and extra socks.
There! Quit throwing that half-witted tantrums on me and put it on. He said, throwing several at Yuffie. She quickly caught it and started to wear layers over layers. Barret turned to Red and Vincent. Any of you want to wear something?
Vincent shook his head and Red smiled a little. I'm just afraid Yuffie would want to wear my hide. He commented, watching Yuffie still shivering and looking huge like a snowman. D-D-Donthu waddy, R-Red. She stammered, her teeth making a funny noise.
Barret chuckled. Looks like yer tongue is freezing up! I take that as a good sign. Yuffie merely glared at him. He turned to Vincent.
You feel anything yet? He asked the silent figure, who was neither shivering, nor talking. He seemed to be deep in thought.
How about –we walk due north from here? Vincent suggested, squinting through the slight snowstorm. Red slowly walked over to them.
I heard there's a village somewhere around here. I heard it from Grandfather. He said, looking at Vincent. Could he' be residing there?
Vincent paused for a moment. It's He said shortly. Both Barret and Red raised their eyebrows.
Vincent nodded. Yes, a
Vincent took a deep breath and frowned a little as if reliving a painful memory. Red XIII and Barret waited for him to say more, but he remained silent without another comment. Whoever she was, it seemed like he'd rather not discuss about her at this moment. He didn't elaborate further and started to make his way over the deep snow, leaving Red and Barret full of curiosity.
Watching Vincent pass by shivering Yuffie, Red narrowed his eyes that shone with deep intelligence.
I wonder who that person is... He murmured, hardly audible above the gushing wind. Barret cocked his thick brows. You wonder? I'm DYING of curiosity!
Red smiled, his eyes still on Vincent. Maybe we'll know a little more about him when this is over. He commented. Vincent had halted somewhere and was looking back at them, his red cape flying around him. He raised his arm a little, indicating them to follow.
What's there to know? He's just a former Turks who knows how to shut his mouth, not like someone else in our group. Barret grumbled, glancing at Yuffie who was still busy complaining despite her frozen lips.
Aren't we gonna follow him or what? She yelled. She started to trot after Vincent with much difficulty. Red turned to Barret.
Let's go. He said.