The Lady in Red Fur
Chapter 8
The progress on the coat continued. Mog had finished his sleeve, which he lined with the chocobo feathers to keep it soft and warm. Moglin and Cosmog were working on the back and front of the coat respectfully. Red XIII remained resting nearby, while also keeping an ear cocked toward the door if someone approached. Although Aerith did keep the door locked while she occupied the room, he did not want to take chances.
Early one morning, Aerith awoke and found the moogles had fallen asleep while working. Mog was sleeping sitting up, still clutching the piece he was working on. Moglin and Cosmog were curled up next to one another, Moglin's head resting on the bigger moogle's tummy. Aerith smiled weakly at them, feeling terrible at how hard they were working. She would definitely have to get something delicious for them to eat. She looked over to see Red XIII awake but still lying by the barely lit fire.
"Good morning," he whispered. "Your friends were working hard through the night."
Aerith frowned, "I feel awful asking them to do so much work."
"They are kind and care about you," the red beast said. "You are lucky to have such friends."
Aerith slipped out of bed and knelt to the floor. She gently took Mog's work from his hand and laid him in her lap. He let out gentle snore and curled up into Aerith, hugging her like a pillow. The princess felt her face twitch to a smile. She looked at her cute little friend and gently stroked his yellow pompom. Mog made a noise and clutched onto her lap tighter.
"They are great friends. I could not ask for any better." The princess admitted. "I owe them so much."
"And yet they ask nothing from you." Red XIII said. "It shows good character."
"They are good," Aerith said.
The red beast shook his head, his fur rippling. "I meant you, princess. For someone, let alone three, to help you without any thought of themselves shows that you are a good person."
Aerith blushed. Red XIII was not an openly complimenting creature but when he did, Aerith felt he truly meant it. His hard exterior and suspicious nature of people dissolved in her presence. He could trust her and she him.
Suddenly, the beast's ears perked up and he stood on all fours, his head staring at the door. Aerith looked at him in concern.
"Someone approaches!" he hissed. The red beast grabbed the cloak and instantly Aerith awoke the moogles. Mog blinked and then scrambled to stuff his supplies in his satchel. Moglin and Cosmog looked at one another and quickly moved away from each other, grabbing their things. When the person knocked on the door the moogles one by one flew out the window. Aerith stood up and grabbed her robe to throw on before answering the door.
Aerith assumed it would be Elmyra but instead found it to be her mother. The princess looked shocked to see her. Ifalna smiled down at her daughter.
"May I come in?" she asked.
Aerith pushed the door open wider to allow her mother entry. Ifalna walked in. Aerith was surprised she was not accompanied by anyone, even Angeal or another guard. Ifalna was also not dressed in her most regal attire but in a more simple dress. She wore a red dress with long bell shaped sleeves. A purple shawl was wrapped around her and her hair was spread loose down her back in soft curls. For the first time in a long time, she noticed her mother was not wearing a crown on her head. She looked rather ordinary.
"Good morning," Ifalna said.
"Morning," Aerith replied.
"May I sit?" Her mother asked politely.
It was odd that her mother was asking. Her mother had free rein to do whatever she wanted. It was her palace, her kingdom after all. Regardless, Aerith nodded.
Ifalna gently tucked her dress and sat delicately on the bed. Aerith noted how ladylike her mother was. Everything she did had such a dainty touch to it. Her mother patted a spot next to her bed. Aerith took the seat next to her.
"These last few days have been stressful," Ifalna began. "You are not acting like yourself and perhaps I am to blame, partially."
Aerith frowned. Ifalna sighed and looked ahead of her.
"I know this wasn't the idea you had and to be honest neither was it mine. However, I... know you will be a good queen Aerith."
Aerith looked at her mother and then watched her slip something from a hidden pocket in her dress. She took her daughter's hand and placed the item within. Aerith looked at the object and gasped. In her hand was a gold ring, with intricate details embedded within. At the top of the ring was a single white jewel.
"Your grandmother gave that to me before I was married to your father." Ifalna explained. "It's engraved on the inside. Take a look."
Aerith peered at the inside of the ring and saw in tiny letters the words, "Love and Courage."
Ifalna looked at her precious daughter smiling. "I loved your father but it scared me to be married. It scared me even more that I would become queen. She gave this to me and told me that as long as I have love and courage in my heart I could do anything. She was right."
"You were terrified to be queen?" Aerith asked.
Ifalna laughed, "Of course! I would have to make decision for better or worse for an entire kingdom. Of course your father did as well but the pressure I felt made me burst into tears. What if I were to lead this kingdom to it's doom? What if I made a mistake that cost people their lives? Your grandmother told me that nothing is ever easy and some choices will be hard to make."
"However...?" Aerith asked, waiting for her mother to continue.
"I can only do the best that I can and as Queen my duty would always to do what is best for my people. Yet, as a mother I will always have a duty to you."
Ifalna hugged her child and Aerith felt her heart drop. The rude treatment she gave her mother and how kind her mother was being made her feel like an awful person.
"I love you," Ifalna said. "No matter what. I'll see you at breakfast."
Aerith watched her mother go. Once she was gone Aerith looked at the ring. Love and courage rang in her head. She had the love of her friends helping her make this coat. Now all she needed was the courage to go through with the plan. Aerith took the ring and placed it on her right hand ring finger.
When Aerith came down for breakfast, she found her mother now more properly dressed for a queen. Garbed in a purple gown and a flowing robe, Queen Ifalna looked every bit as regal as the crown on her head. Aerith took her usual seat until she noticed several empty chairs at the table.
"Where is King Wiess?" she asked curiously.
"Seems he is quite busy today and has taken breakfast in his quarters." Lazard said at the other side of the table.
"Seems as his brother does not wish to eat with us, either," Buganhagen noted.
"Well, King Weiss is after all a king," said Lazard. "He has his own kingdom to rule..."
Aerith looked down and gave herself a small smile. Finally, it would be a more relaxed morning. Perhaps, she would see less of King Weiss and his brother now that she set them up with a task. Maybe if she was lucky they would be unable to complete the dresses and King Weiss out of sheer embarrassment would leave her be. If only she thought as she ate.
Aerith left the table and wandered the halls of her castle. The moogles would be sleeping until later and Red XIII as well. He needed his rest to regain his strength and heal from his injuries. Aerith wandered outside, needing to get out of the castle for a while and feel the sun on her face and the fresh air in her lungs.
Aerith traversed the grounds. As she passed by servants, guards, or ladies and gentlemen of the court they greeted her kindly with a bow or a curtsy. Aerith smiled politely but inside she still felt as if she was suffocating. She needed to get out of the castle period. Outside the walls where she could feel free and there was one way to do it. She headed for the stables and sure enough she found the stable hand there cleaning out the stalls.
"Excuse me," Aerith said. "Biggs, is it?"
Biggs jumped. Upon seeing the princess he bowed so low that Aerith was afraid he would hit the floor. She held up her hands.
"Please, forgive me again my princess I did not see you." He begged.
Aerith sighed. "Please, saddle my chocobo. I wish to go riding."
"Right away, my princess!" he said hurrying to retrieve the ornate saddle.
Biggs left the stall in a rush. Aerith shrugged and moved toward the stall holding her mount. She smiled bringing her hand to its beak. The bird made a soft chirp.
"I'm glad you are well," she said to her bird.
The chocobo gave her a thoughtful look, almost if he sensed her unease. Aerith absently brought her head against the bird's own. The chocobo nuzzled her affectionately. A second or so later the door the stable flung open and Biggs was carrying the saddle.
"Forgive me for taking so long, my princess." he insisted. "Sir Hewley was inquiring why I was taking your saddle."
Aerith should have known Angeal would have been around. After all, even if he was not standing right beside her he would be somewhere near by keeping and eye out. She was sure now he would be ready with his chocobo. Biggs began to saddle the bird, tightening the leather saddle with ornate decorations on it.
"Allow me to lead it outside." he said politely.
Aerith nodded and he took the bird by the reins leading it to the courtyard. Aerith followed and sure enough Angeal was waiting with his mount at his side. Unlike her chocobo which was a vibrant gold color, Angeal's was a dull yellow. Angeal approached and gave a curt bow to his princess.
"You should have announced your plans to me, my princess," Angeal said.
"It was a... spur the moment idea," she said. "And I have been cooped up within these walls for too long. I might just snap again if I am kept within any longer."
Aerith took hold of the saddle of her bird intending to hoist herself up. However, Angeal knelt on one knee propping the other up for the princess to use to help herself up. Aerith felt odd using the bodyguard as a step stool but he insisted. She sat on the bird tucking her legs to one side. She nodded her head to Angeal and the two left the safety of the castle and the castle town to the grand field.
A breeze swept over her like a wave as she breathed in the scent of flowers and sweet grass. She smiled and as she opened her eyes to gaze into the open blue sky.
"We shouldn't be long, my princess," Angeal warned. "Queen Ifalna requests that you join her for tea this afternoon with King Weiss."
"For once, Angeal, I wish you would allow me to indulge in these moments of freedom." Aerith sighed. "I only started to ride."
"I meant to inform you earlier, forgive me for forgetting." He bowed his head shamefully. "I know you are unhappy with the events."
"You're the only one who seems to notice or care," Aerith replied bitterly. "Yet, I will be marrying King Weiss once he completes my dresses."
Angeal looked forlorn. Aerith caught the look and wondered if he was worried about the unification of their kingdoms. While the council and her mother were more worried about other kingdoms preying on them, Aerith felt like she was the only one worried about the actual uniting. However, perhaps out of all the humans, Angeal was the only other one. It struck he as odd that he would think of these events. The princess never took the man as being stupid or foolhardy. He was quiet, calm, and levelheaded. Perhaps it came with age. Aerith wondered if he acted like Cissnei in his youth.
"Shall we continue?" He suggested.
"Let's take the scenic route," Aerith said. The scenic route being the longest path around the field.
"As you command, my princess."
Aerith gently snapped the reins of her mount and they road off. As they road, Aerith felt nostalgia hit her. She remembered the days her father and her would go riding, when she was tiny and could not mount a bird without help or being seated with someone. She would sit in front of her father as they road together, of course they were always accompanied by guards but Aerith never paid them much heed.
Her father, she remembered him so well. Each detail of his face, the color of his hair, and the deep gentle eyes as if she had just seen him. She remembered the scent of spices that clung to him. Unlike her mother who smelled of lavender flowers because they were favorite. The riding through the field she remembered were always a joy, second to that of when they would dance together during the elaborate parties held from time to time at the castle. There she would be dressed so pretty and dance with her father.
The princess and her bodyguard came to a lake where her father would always take her. It was where the prettiest flowers grew. As a child she would gather bouquets for her mother and Ifalna would place them in her room. Her father would pick the prettiest of the flowers and place it in Aerith's hair, telling her flowers suited her better than crowns. Aerith agreed. Without thinking, she slipped off her mount and began to gather flowers. Angeal took the reins of the princess's mount and remained silent. His watchful eyes followed her like a hawk.
Aerith seemed so lost in her thoughts of her father and of simpler times as she gathered flowers. She picked one flower after another. When she grasped a large white flower she gasped, dropping her collection. The princess looked at her finger and saw a small slit on the tip. A drop of blood dripped out from the wound. A second later, Angeal was her side looking at the cut.
"It is small," The princess brushed it off.
"Even the smallest of wounds can become dangerous," Angeal said, his voice grave.
Aerith frowned. "And here I simply wanted to gather some flowers for my room. Place them in my hair as father once did."
She laughed bitterly. Angeal let go of her finger and knelt down, finding a red flower that she had dropped. He snapped the rather large stem in half and boldly tucked it behind her ear. Aerith blinked in shock, opening her mouth to say something.
"Sometimes," Angeal said softly, "I wish I could take away your burdens, my princess. I seen your mother suffer and now you do as well."
Aerith felt her heart thump. Perhaps Angeal did understand better than anyone but as a knight and a guard he had no place to say.
"Thank you," Aerith said, smiling.
The tender moment was interrupted though by the sound of snickering. The princess and her guard looked up to see none other than Rosso and Azul.
"Well look at what we have here," Rosso said, mounted on a dull gray chocobo while Azul was on a ruddy looking bird.
"What business do you have here?" Aerith asked, immediately annoyed by their presence.
"Our King does not require our presence and has given us leave," Rosso explained. "I didn't think it would mean we couldn't go for a ride in this kingdom."
Aerith noted both were armed. She wondered if they were simply always armed or were they up to no good. She believed the latter. She looked over at Angeal, whose face that was tender a moment ago had steeled itself.
"You are to remain unarmed," Aerith told the red-headed woman. The queen had previously banned Rosso from using her weapon.
Rosso rolled her eyes. "And if I were to be attacked by a filthy beast out here?" She looked at Azul. "What if my poor arm was ripped off Azul? Then where would I be?"
The large man grunted. "In bed like that other guard... what was her name again? Cynthia? Cissy?"
"Cissnei," Aerith said, her voice cold like ice.
"Oh, so that was her name?" Azul laughed. "Must have forgot because I too busy watching Rosso show her what a real warrior is like."
Rosso joined in on the laughter. Aerith glared at them. She opened her mouth to speak but Rosso cut her off.
"However, I am curious to know why the princess's guard is placing flowers in her hair?" An evil glint was in her eye. "Is there something, going on here?"
"Oh I know what it is," Azul chipped in, grinning.
The two were ignoring the princess and now looking at Angeal. The princess's guard was stone faced. No emotion in his eyes, completely stoic. Rosso slipped off her bird, landing gracefully. Azul did the same but landed hard on his feet. His bird squawked as if relieved to be free of his weight.
"Tell me, sir knight," Rosso asked in a mocking tone. "Didn't you take an oath of fealty?"
"I did," Angeal said, short to the point.
"Does that include making advances toward a princess?" the red-haired woman hissed. "Tell us sir knight are you pining over your princess?"
"Is it because you can't have the queen mother so you hoped to have the princess instead?" Azul asked.
Aerith looked in horror. She could not believe what these two were insinuating. Angeal was the most loyal knight and he would never sully his reputation as such. Aerith practically had to beg him to sit on her chocobo they day she became ill. The princess waited for his retort but Angeal remained silent.
Rosso grinned. "He doesn't deny it, Azul."
"So it's true."
"ENOUGH!" snapped Aerith. "How dare you make false accusations in attempts to goad Angeal into fighting. I demand that you return to the castle this instant."
Rosso turned her eyes toward the princess. For a second Aerith could see a distasteful look in her eyes, as if she were insulted that Aerith ordered her. She tilted her head and smirked.
"As you wish, princess." Rosso said. "Come Azul."
Azul stared at Angeal and then he whispered something to the princess's guard. The next thing Aerith knew Azul was sent sprawling to the ground. Aerith gasped out in shock, her hands going to her mouth.
XXX
"Hey, Red!" Yuffie called as Aerith entered the wash room. "Glad you could make it! There is a lot of washing to be done."
"The servants seem rather busy today," Aerith noted. She had noticed the palace was in a bustle.
Yuffie nodded, "It's because the prince's uncle is coming tomorrow. He wants to attend his nephew's birthday."
"Oh, yes, King Cid Highwind." She said, thoughtfully. "Is the king very particular or something? I already thought this palace was well kept."
Yuffie laughed. "Prince Cloud thinks so too. It's really his adviser Rufus who ordered everything to be spotless. Sometimes I think Rufus is more interested in ruling than his highness. Well, at least he likes bossing people around."
Aerith chuckled but remembered her mother and her advisers. They offered advice and Ifalna listened. Sometimes she would take it other times not but they brought in another point of view to issues. Even though Aerith did not like how they went about with her arranged marriage she knew they needed to protect the kingdom.
"I think he is trying to do his best for his highness," Aerith said. "It must be a stressful job."
"I suppose," said Yuffie scrubbing the clothes in the wash tub. "Hey, can you take those clean clothes upstairs before you start? They go to his Highness's room, the servants are probably in their now cleaning so you can just give it to them to put away."
Aerith looked over at a basket full of clean, pressed, and folded clothes. She nodded and grasped the handles of the basket, hoisted it up and left the washroom. She carried the basket up a winding set of stairs. As she walked, she noted the servants running by in rush, even more so than before. It almost seemed as if they were in a panic. Aerith wanted to inquire what everyone was doing when she bumped into someone.
"Ouch, watch where your going." A annoyed voice spoke out.
Aerith knew that voice. "Forgive me, Sir Reno."
"Oh it's you fur ball." he said flatly.
"Good day, My Lady," Rude said, who was next to Reno.
Aerith bowed her head. Rude seemed much more polite than his friend. Aerith wondered if it was genuine or if it was only because his prince commanded such politeness. Rude was normally very quiet and it did not make it easy for her to understand him or his intentions. Reno on the other hand was simple. He liked to tease her or anyone for that manner.
"What are you doing with the laundry, furs?" Reno asked. "Decided to finally wear normal clothes?"
"They are his highness's laundry." Aerith replied.
"I don't know if male clothing will look good on you." he smirked.
"I'll keep to my fur then," Aerith said drly.
Aerith went to leave but Reno stepped in her way. Aerith sighed. Tilting her head slightly to see him from beneath her hood.
"Please, I have to get these up to the prince."
"Not as if he is going to run around naked without a few shirts." Reno replied. "Why in such a hurry fur ball? Hoping to catch a glimpse of the prince?"
Aerith wished Reno would just leave her alone. Sometimes his teasing was just annoying.
"The only person who is going to see my nephew is me!" snapped a harsh voice.
Reno and Rude jumped and suddenly their faces became stern. They stood perfectly straight, chest up and shoulders back. Aerith peered between them to see a older man, dressed in blue and tan. His hair was very light blond and face beginning to age. On his chest was a pin with some insignia that Aerith was unsure exactly what it was. The man looked between Reno and Rude.
"Where the hell is my nephew?" He barked and then he spotted Aerith. "What the hell is that thing?"
He let out a curse word and Aerith winced. Behind the man were two other men who looked to be guards. Both were tall and intimidating, however, vastly different in looks. The tallest was a burly man who had to be over six and a half feet tall. His skin was dark and his eyes like chocolate. Aerith noted that one of his hands was missing and was replaced with a metal one. The second man was thinner but almost as tall as the first. His skin was ghostly pale with ebony hair that flowed to his back. His eyes were crimson like pools of blood. Aerith felt herself shrinking away.
"Good morning, your majesty," Reno and Rude said in unison.
"Don't give me that crap," snapped the man. "Where is my nephew and why the hell is there a giant rug walking in this castle?"
Rude spoke up, "She is a guest of your nephew, King Cid."
"My nephew is damn crazy," the king snapped. "You, rug, what's your name?"
Aerith bit her lip and spoke in a soft voice, "No name..."
"Who the hell doesn't have a name?" Cid asked.
"There you are, uncle." Came Cloud's voice from down the hall. "I thought you were arriving tomorrow?"
"No, I said I would be arriving today. Of course, when they saw my damn ship outside and Barret banging on the door, this place goes to hell and I can't get one servant to tell where the hell you are hiding."
Cloud stopped his approach mere steps from his uncle. Aerith gripped the basket tightly. Cid looked at his nephew with a harsh look. Aerith knew Cid was... interesting to say the least but was he judging Cloud? The way he looked seemed that he was displeased about something.
"Look at you, piece of crap!" Snapped Cid.
Aerith could not believe such things were coming out of a king's mouth. However, Cloud did not even seemed phased. Instead, he smiled.
"It's good to see you uncle." The prince said.
"Oh hell it's good to see you too, kid."
And for a moment the two hugged. Cid gave him a hearty thump on his back. The two laughed.
"You remember my guards, Vincent and Barret?" Cid said. "If you didn't I wouldn't be surprised those two are easy as hell to forget."
Cloud in a more polite tone responded, "I am honored by your presence Sir Vincent and Sir Barret. Thank you for protecting this old coot."
"Watch it boy!" Cid mockingly threatened. "I am older than you and if you misbehave your mother gave me permission to take you out and smack the hell out of you for being disrespectful. My sister, gods bless her soul, would never stand for your shit talk!"
"Or yours," Cloud countered.
The two laughed. Once the laughter subsided Cid asked, "Why do you have a rug walking around?"
Cloud looked over at Aerith, dressed in her furs. He smiled. "Uncle she is the lady you rescued me from death. She is my honored guest here for all time."
Cid arched and eyebrow toward her. "And you didn't ask for money?"
"I did it because it was the ri-"
Cid interrupted her, "Hell if I saved him, even if he is my nephew I would have asked for a bag of damn gold. Ah, whatever I am starving, damn it."
"Don't tell me your too old to remember where the dining hall is?" Cloud mused.
"Don't make me slap you right here." Cid said before laughing again. "Vincent, Barret let's go get some food."
Cloud ordered Reno and Rude to escort his uncle. Cloud needed to finish getting ready as he rushed out of his bed chambers before he was done putting on his more formal attire. However, the prince looked over at Aerith and smiled.
"Forgive my uncle, he is a bit peculiar." Cloud said. "My Lady if he offended you..."
"No, no my appearance is odd and I do not blame anyone who finds me curious."
"If anyone in the palace troubles you please do not hesitate to tell me and I will put a stop to it."
"No, my prince, I am fine."
Cloud looked skeptical. Aerith could tell he knew that people said cruel things about her. Being called a "rug" was one of the less cruel ones but to Aerith, King Cid seemed to speak his mind whether others liked it or not. Cloud noted the basket of clothes in her hands.
"I thank you for my clothes." he took them from her.
"Oh! Allow me to carry them!"
Cloud backed away before she could take the basket back. He smiled as he walked away. "And how would I, a noble and honorable man, would look if I let My Lady carry such a heavy item."
Aerith smiled and she felt her chest tighten.
"Oh! My Lady?" The prince suddenly called out. "My birthday is tomorrow. You are invited to attend."
A frown fell on Aerith's face as she waved good bye to the prince.
XXX
Aerith looked out the window longingly. She watched as the coaches and carriages brought all the people who would be attending Prince Cloud's party. It reminded her of the parties she used to go when she was home. They were extravagant and fun. It was one of the things Aerith always looked forward to. She lets out a sigh as she hears a soft melody beginning to play. It brought back memories before her father died and she would dance with him.
Nostalgia filled the young girl as she did a twirl, her coat spinning through the air to reveal the simple pink dress beneath. She closed her eyes imagining she was back home in a time when she was the most happy. She danced with an imaginary partner around her room. As she did the moogles crept into her room from the window. They looked at her in confusion.
"What are doing?" asked Mog.
Aerith jumped and let out a scream. The moogles all swooped back in shock from her scream. When she calmed down she glared at them.
"Why did you scare me?" she asked, feeling her heart still racing.
"We didn't mean to," Mog responded. "But what's with you? Why are you dancing around your room?"
Aerith sighed and sat at the windowsill. The moogles landed next to her, crowding the windowsill. They noticed now the people coming into the palace.
"A party?" Cosmog asked.
"It's the prince's birthday." The fur clad lady responded.
"Do you want to go to the party?" asked Moglin.
"I'm just feeling homesick," she answered.
"Why not go?" Mog asked. "The prince would not mind."
Aerith laughed. "Oh yes, and have everyone in their fancy attire staring at me as I stick out. No, thank you. I do not need that type of attention."
Cosmog was munching on a kupo nut. He looked up at her. "Why not just go without the fur on?"
"Are you serious?" Aerith asked. "Do you know what will happen if I go down there? Someone will spot me and next thing you know my mother and King Weiss are banging on the castle doors to find me."
"Yes, do you want the princess to get captured?" Moglin asked, hands on her hips.
Cosmog shrugged as he ate. "Not as if any of them ever met Aerith though. You said yourself you never even seen Prince Cloud until you found him in the woods."
Cosmog ate his nut and sighed contently. Moglin, Mog, and Aerith looked at him thoughtfully. The urge to go to the ball even for a moment was tempting.
"Just go princess," Mog said, agreeing with Cosmog. "You have been under that fur for so long. You need to get out more."
"I don't have a dress to wear," Aerith reasoned.
Moglin flew from her spot and under the bed. She pulled out the princess's satchel. She opened it and looked inside.
"What are you doing?" Aerith asked getting up.
"You have three perfectly good dresses in here," Moglin said.
Within the satchel were the three dresses. The same three dresses that Aerith had used to buy herself time until the garment of fur was complete. She had intended to sell them for money but never got the chance to. Instead , she held onto them.
Aerith grabbed the satchel. "Absolutely not! I was going to sell these for money."
"What would be the point now?" Moglin asked. "You live here and the prince would give you anything. You are his heroine."
"Oh, come on Aerith," Mog urged. "You want to go and it be perfect. No one will probably even realize you are a princess. Besides, wouldn't it be nice to see Prince Cloud as the real you instead of "Lady" or whatever?"
Aerith felt a tug at her heartstrings. Prince Cloud had treated her with such kindness and was grateful for her. The servants were not all mean but she knew what they called her. They called her "Red fur," "Creature," among other things. It would be nice to be able to see him without having to peer from under a hood all the time. The sound of music began to echo louder in her ears. Gently, Aerith pulled the hood from off her head. The moogles began to smile.
"I think I need help getting ready," Aerith said.
"No, problem!" The moogles called out.
Moglin pulled out one of the dresses. The red one that was embroidered with rubies. The fur cloak dropped to the floor. Moglin shooed the boys out of the room for the princess could change. Aerith stripped from the plain pink dress and into the one of rubies. It was soft and fell of her curves beautifully. It reached the floor but the dress felt heavy wit the rubies. The boys returned and gawked in awe. It had been so long since they have seen their friend in a gown. Moglin undid he hair and began to style it. Cosmog found the matching shoes in the bag. He carefully shined them up along with her mother's ring.
Moglin styled Aerith's hair so that it was half up and down. When she was done she flew back and admired her work. Cosmog helped put the shoes on her feet and even placed the ring on her finger. Aerith spun around when it was all said and done to give the moogles a good look. Mog watched thoughtfully and then flew out the window. When he returned her was holding a red flower in his hand.
"One more thing to make it complete." he said. "It's not a crown but I think it will suit you."
He laced the flower in her hair and it sat on her right side just above her ear. Aerith smiled and thanked her moogle friends.
"When I'm finished," she said, "I promise to make some kupo nut soup!"
The moogles cheered.
In the ballroom, Cloud was watching the guests dance and mingle with one another. He was enjoying himself but he did not feel like mingling with them himself. He sat on his throne, on one side of him was a woman with raven hair. Her name was Tifa. On the other side was Zack. His other guards were scattered around the room.
"You look like you are having a good time," Zack whispered jokingly.
Cloud rolled his eyes. "It's a birthday party for me. I wasn't planning on having such an elaborate party but Rufus insisted on it."
"Well, why not ask one of those..." Zack eyes watched as a beautiful girl passed by, "lovely young ladies to dance."
Tifa let out a noise of disgust. Zack flashed her a grin causing Tifa turned her head from him.
"I'm sure any of them would be interested in dancing with you." He continued.
"Oh, for certain but that's because I have a crown on my head." He nodded his head toward a group of ladies who were nearby. All of them were intently watching the prince, hoping he would step down from his throne and come to to them.
"They look eager to talk with you." Zack noticed.
"I think I am safe up here where they can't touch me," Cloud insisted.
Tifa smirked, "You would think they were hungry dogs waiting for a piece of meat, you, to be thrown to them."
Cloud shuddered. "If I get up and ask one to dance it would be an endless line of women."
Zack frowned, "You make it sound like a bad thing..."
Another beautiful young woman passed by. Zack was clearly gawking at her and Tifa was half tempted to smack the back of his head for it. However, hearing her prince sigh, she turned her attention to him.
"It wouldn't be so bad if these women weren't after my crown," Cloud lamented, "and don't tell me they aren't Zack because once my coronation occurs it will be expected I am going to choose someone to marry. I'm sure by tomorrow Rufus is going to have a list of girls waiting for me."
"Again, you make it sound like having girls wanting you a bad thing." Zack said.
Cloud rolled his eyes and this time Tifa did smack Zack. Zack let out a "ouch" as he rubbed the stinging spot.
"Prince Cloud," Tifa said gently, "You should at least enjoy your birthday."
Cloud began to slouch in his throne. This day could not drag on any longer. He longed to be anywhere but here. He could see his uncle was enjoying himself, talking to several other highborn people. His bodyguard, Barret at his side. Where Vincent was, he had no clue. Cloud was surprised no one tried to talk to his uncle and get him to dance. He was single and still considered young. He was also a good looking man. Perhaps it was Barret that kept the women away. The way he eyed everyone suspiciously and the sheer fact that he was tall and heavily built would intimidate anyone.
Cloud sighed and slouch more in his seat when he noticed Rufus was giving him a sharp look. The prince inwardly groaned.
"Maybe you should ask someone to dance instead of sitting. It will make the time go by faster." Tifa said. "I'm sure one of the girls are pleasant."
"Yeah," Zack agreed with Tifa. He closed his eyes and leaned back in his spot. "You have to talk to them and get to know them. Otherwise you may miss out on a great girl. What are you expecting? Some girl to appear out of thin air? Maybe if you pray to the goddess hard enough she can send you the perfect girl."
Cloud looked over the crowd when something caught his eye at the top of the grand staircase.
"Sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith," The male bodyguard said. "Right my prince?"
Zack opened his eyes and found Prince Cloud had left his throne. His eyes darted around until he saw Cloud was traveling down the length of the ballroom toward the grand staircase. His eyes traveled toward the top of the stairs where a woman in a red dress stood. He stared in wonder. The light hit her dress, causing the rubies embroidered into it shimmer. Her pale skin seemed to glow, making her look ethereal.
"Who is that?" Zack asked.
Tifa was also staring in awe. "A girl who appeared out of thin air."
Zack gasped and then looked to the sky as if looking for someone. "What about me? Send me someone!"
Tifa looked at him and shook her head in disgust.
The sea of people parted for the prince. However, they were also in awe as this mysterious woman descended the stairs, carefully holding her dress to keep herself from tripping. Aerith spotted Cloud looking at her. A faint blush appeared on her face but her heart was racing. When she neared the bottom, Cloud brought his hand up for her to take. He looked every bit regal and handsome as ever. Aerith carefully took it and for first time she touched him without her leather glove on. His hand was incredibly warm.
Cloud helped her the rest of the way down the steps and when she was on the floor her she gave him a graceful curtsy. It was a perfect one too, straight back and all. Only a highborn woman would know how. When she stood her eyes shyly lifted up to him. Cloud's eyes met hers and he felt himself holding his breath. Her eyes were deep emerald that seemed to sparkle.
Aerith could not be more happy. She gave him a smile. Cloud began to smile himself.
"He-hello," he said, nervously.
Aerith let out a soft laugh, "Good evening your majesty."
He was at a loss for words. Her voice was sweet like honey and her smile made his stomach knot. Any sense he had or thought in his head was gone. Finally, he mustered whatever courage he had in him and asked her the only thing he could think.
"May I have this dance?"
Aerith smiled, "Yes, your highness."
From across the room Zack stood there smirking. "He looks like he is going to vomit."
Tifa nodded, "I can't believe he is going to dance."
Suddenly, Reno and Rude were next to them, staring in utter amazement.
"You think the it'll be okay?" Reno asked.
"He's just dancing, I dont think she is an assassin," Tifa said.
"I'm not talking about her killing the prince," Reno said. "I think every other girl in this room is going to rip her hair out."
The four bodyguards look at one another.
"Let's just keep a close eye so the prince doesn't get mobbed by the girls after they finish," Tifa suggested.
"I think that's our best bet," Rude said.
"I'll coordinate with Tseng to keep them at bay," Reno added.
Cloud led Aerith out onto the dance floor. For a moment, Cloud was sure he had forgotten how to dance. He took a deep breath and placed one hand on her waist. Aerith took a deep breath as well. She never imagined she would be this close to Cloud. Even though they spoke many times, there was a clear distance between them. Aerith had made sure of that but for tonight there would be no barrier.
The music played and Cloud led her across the floor. Several couples resumed dancing while others watched with much curiosity. As Aerith danced, her dress caught the lights. It shimmered and look like tiny flames dancing over her.
"You dance well," Cloud whispered to her as they moved across the floor. It was true she was light on her feet, as if she was flying.
"Thank you," Aerith replied, "you as well."
Cloud chuckled. Aerith raised and eyebrow.
"What's so funny?"
"Nothing..." Cloud did not want her to know that she had made him forget how. He changed the subject.
"Your dress, I have never seen anything like it."
"It was made for me," Aerith responded but he did not catch the hint of sadness in her voice.
Cloud found himself gazing at her body. In doing so he misstep and he fell slightly. Aerith caught him and Cloud looked down embarrassed.
"Are you all right?" Aerith asked a worried expression on her face.
Cloud nodded and they continued to dance. He caught Zack's face who was grinning widely. He wished Tifa would smack him again. However, his dance partner seemed oblivious to his embarrassment. She was smiling, enjoying the dance. It made the prince feel at ease.
As they danced the moogles had sneaked into the ballroom. They were curious to see their friend's progress. It was easy to spot her. Aerith's dress stuck out like a sore thumb. Most of the guests wore blues, greens, or shades of purple. Cloud himself was dressed in a dark navy suit. The two looked so cute together and it made Moglin gush. She thought it was romantic. Her two companions felt like gagging. It was too cute for them.
When the song ended another one soon started. Cloud refused to let her hand go. This surprised Aerith. She was certain it would be one dance with him. Cloud smiled at her.
"May I... have another dance?" He asked, nervously gulping.
Aerith was sure he was being polite asking her dance but her heart swelled when he wanted another.
"As many as you wish your majesty." In truth, it would be bad manners to deny the request of the royal while in their kingdom. Even so, Aerith would not want to.
Cloud held her close, his voice whispering in ear. "I might not stop dancing with you then."
Aerith's face flushed. A small smile spread across Cloud's lips. Aerith felt her heart flutter as she looked down. Cloud pulled her closer to him. The two continued.
"Tell me, my lady where did you learn to dance to well?"
"I always used to dance with my father. My first dance at any occasion was reserved for him."
"Your father was a good teacher." Cloud noted. "Is he hear as well?"
Aerith looked crestfallen.
Cloud noticed the look. "Is something wrong?"
"My father is no longer among us. It sometimes does not feel real that he is gone even though it has been a long time."
"Forgive me," Cloud apologized.
"You have nothing to be sorry for. You had no idea."
She smiled at Cloud. He felt better seeing that smile.
"My parents are no longer among us as well," Cloud said. "I should have been more thoughtful."
"You are, your majesty, please think no more of it." Aerith said.
The two danced and chatted song after song. Cloud had never felt more comfortable with someone he just met. He did not even notice eyes on him. Aerith did not either. Eyes of envy had been watching her and many of the single women wanted their turn to dance. However, Cloud wanted to dance each song with her.
"You know what is strange," the prince said during a dance.
"Hmm?" Aerith asked.
"I feel as if I know you already," Cloud said. "Have we met before?"
Aerith wanted to say yes more than anything. It was "My Lady," or "Furs" or "Red" who knew the prince, not Aerith. She said instead, "No, I'm sure I would have remembered."
"Are you sure? Then how is it that I find myself so easy to talk to you?" The prince questioned.
"Strange," Aerith responded. "I feel the same way."
A small smile spread across his lips. He spun Aerith around, and the dress twirled, flickering like flames. People were staring at them. The moogles were watching happily, Moglin looking dreamily at them.
During one of their songs Cloud realized he did not actually know who this girl was exactly. He knew all those who were supposed to attend his birthday party. He tried to think of who she was or possibly who she was related to but nothing came to mind.
"I thought I knew every royal or lady coming tonight. Are you a guest of someone?"
Aerith blushed, "No... I..."
Aerith then realized she was actually an uninvited guest. A sudden fear washed over her. What if she was arrested for coming here? What if she was simply thrown out? She needed to leave. She needed to get back to her room and get back into her cloak. During the next turn she pulled away from Cloud. He looked after her in shocked as he watched her slip through the crowd.
The prince was stunned for a second or two. Unsure what just happened. Did he say something wrong?
"Wait!" he called out.
Aerith heard his call but she did not turn around. Cloud was on pursuit. From above the moogles saw the situation unfolding. It looked as if things were going to get bad. In fear the little creatures became alert.
"We better help her," Mog said.
The other two nodded and they flew off. Aerith flew through the doorways. She needed to lose Cloud before she could return to her room. She heard him call to her again and when he appeared around the corner she began to run. Cloud spotted the red dress and hurried after her when he felt something trip him up. Cloud landed with a loud thump. Cosmog flew back into the air to rejoin his friends. He had used his body to trip the prince. The moogles snickered before hurrying away before they were spotted.
Cloud looked up and saw that the girl was gone. He got up from the ground. He ran around the corner and tried to spot her but she had truly gone. It was as if she vanished. Cloud slumped his shoulders, confusion filled his head. Who was that girl? Why did she leave so suddenly. Why didn't he ask her name? He looked down to the ground dejected when he spotted something. On the ground was a rose. Was it the one the girl wore in her hair? Cloud was sure it was because why would a rose just be sitting here. He sighed, reached down, and held the rose close to him.
"Please come back..." he whispered.
Next thing he knew he found Zack, Tifa, Tseng and his other guards coming down the hall.
"Your highness!" Tseng called. "What happened?"
Cloud looked at them and shrugged. "I don't really know."
"Are you okay?" Zack asked. "Where did the girl go?"
Cloud shrugged still clutching the rose.
"Should we go find her?" Rude asked.
"Of course you idiots should go look for her!" a voice snapped.
The guards looked back to see King Cid walking toward them. He looked at them sharply and said, "Well? Did I stutter? GO!"
The guards scattered. Cid looked at his nephew who was still looking lost.
"What the hell was that?" The king spat.
"What was what?" Cloud asked.
"You FINALLY meet a normal girl and you let her get away?" Cid snapped. "Damn it, how the hell are you ever going to get married?"
Rufus appeared now, "I ask the same question every day."
"But you're not even married..." Cloud said, staring off into the distance.
"Shut the hell up," Cid retorted but his nephew ignored him.
Rufus sighed, "And I finally thought he was making progress. Do you even know her name? That way I can get her back here and get you two married. I swear it be easier than trying to pick someone for you... you are impossible with women."
Cloud shook his head. "I don't know her name..."
The prince then walked off in a daze leaving his uncle and adviser alone. The King and Rufus looked at one another in disbelief.
"Who the hell does not ask someone their damn name?" Cid cursed.
Rufus sighed rubbing his face in frustration. "Your nephew apparently."
Back up in her room, Aerith closed the door and pressed her body against the door. She took several deep breaths before sinking to the floor. A moment or two later the moogles flew into the room.
"What happened?" Mog asked, floating down to her.
"I had the most amazing time of my life," Aerith said absentmindedly.
Moglin gushed finding it adorable.
"But why did you leave?" Cosmog asked.
The question broke Aerith from her trance like state. She frowned.
"He asked where I was from..." she explained. "He wanted to know who I was with and how he did not know me. How was I going to explain that I was there uninvited?"
"I don't think he would have minded," Moglin dreamily said. "I think he enjoyed dancing with you too."
Aerith smiled at that. She stood up and spun around in a circle grabbing Cosmog in the process. She twirled around with him dancing with the plump moogle. Cosmog gasped as he was spinning and when Aerith let go he floated to the ground feeling dizzy. The princess fell onto her bed, landing on her fur cloak. She sighed happily as a fit of giggles erupted from her.
"I think someone is in love," Moglin said with a grin.
Cosmog looked up at her, "Who?"
Moglin smacked her forehead and let out an exasperated sigh. Mog laughed. Aerith did not hear the discussion between her friends. She was too busy thinking about Cloud.
"Oh man, after all that work I am super hungry," Mog said.
Aerith sat up. "You know, me too."
"Do you think we could have..." Cosmog trailed off.
"Soup?" she suggested.
The moogles all looked hopeful. Aerith grabbed her red cloak a smile on her face. "I owe you some kupo nut soup. I'm sure I can make us each a big bowl."
The moogles cheered, flying around the room. After a quick change, Aerith was dressed in her cloak. She made her way down to the kitchen where she found only the head cook still in the kitchen. After asking for a place to cook he relented by giving her a small corner in the back kitchen and only if she would clean it afterward. At the moment now the cooks were taking their meal upstairs to the guests.
Aerith gathered ingredients and when the cook left the moogles stealthily entered into the kitchen. Together the four began to make their soup. Soon after the delicious nutty aroma began to fill their noses. Cosmog hovered closely over the pot half tempted to reach in to slurp up the contents.
"Oh! It smells so good," Moglin said. "Is it ready?"
"Almost," Aerith said stirring the pot. Aerith brought up a spoonful of the contents and gentle puffed out some air to cool it. Smiling, she held it out to Cosmog. He gasped, and went to taste when the sound of shuffling was heard from the other side of the kitchen.
"Is someone here?" a familiar voice called out.
"The prince..." Aerith whispered, her eyes widened.
Mog and Moglin swooped down under a table when they noticed Cosmog still eager to taste the soup. The two flew back up and grabbed the moogle by his arms and forcefully dragged him under the counter.
"No, my soup!" he cried before Mog covered his mouth with his paw.
Seconds later, Prince Cloud appeared from around the corner. He looked shocked to find "Furs" here rather than some cook. He smiled gently at her.
"Good evening, My Lady," he said.
"Good evening, your highness," Aerith replied.
Aerith could feel her heart thumping in her chest. She stared at the prince from under her hood to see him still looking every bit regal as he did when they danced. However, her eyes caught the rose in the breast pocket of his suit. Her heart somersaulted in her chest. It was the flower from her hair, she was sure of it. Why else would he seemingly now be carrying a flower when he had not?
"I am surprised to see you here," Cloud said. "I was sure that the cooks did not want you helping in the kitchen."
"You know about that?" Aerith asked.
Cloud smiled. "I know everything that goes around in my palace. I know you help Yuffie do laundry. She told me you were desperate to find some way to repay my kindness."
The prince laughed before taking a deep breath. "You know my bringing you here was to repay you for your kindness and still you do more for me."
Aerith shook her head. "No, you took me in and gave me a place to live. I will always be in your debt."
Sighing the prince leaned against the wall. "I guess we are forever in the others debt then?"
"It seems so," Aerith laughed. "But I must ask, your highness, why are you here? You're birthday is still being celebrated."
Cloud nodded. "I know I just... can't seem to be bring myself to return at the moment."
He absentmindedly touched the rose tucked in his pocket. Aerith bit her lip. When she heard the soup next to her bubbling.
"Oh!" She quickly removed it from the fire. Yet, the pot proved heavier and all of a sudden she found herself losing her grip on the handle. Cloud, upon seeing her struggle, quickly moved to help her. His hand brushed along her gloved hands before stabilizing the pot and placing it on the counter. For a second, Aerith looked at her gloved hands as she remembered the prince's touch on her hand. That warm feeling she could not feel with the glove on. She backed away from the prince.
"I am sorry for being so clumsy." she said.
"Is that... that soup you made before?" he asked, excitement in his voice.
Aerith nodded.
"Please send me a bowl up to the dining hall. To be honest I've actually been craving a bowl of that soup." The prince chuckled. "Where did you learn to make such a thing?"
"A few friends who have particular tastes." Aerith said.
"Then you need to teach the cooks how to make this soup. None of the cooks seems to be able to make such a delicacy."
"If the prince wants I can make the soup anytime he wishes. It would be another way I can repay you."
"Now, you are tempting me, My Lady." Cloud mused. "I might take this whole pot and ask for three more for later."
Aerith laughed, "Then the whole pot is yours."
Under the table, Mog and Moglin were tightly holding onto Cosmog, both their hands clamped on his mouth. He was crying, desperately hoping that Aerith would not give him the whole pot. However, the three could hear them still talking.
"No, just a bowl will suffice," Cloud said before sighing. "I should return to my party though before Rufus shows up to drag me away. Good night, My Lady, and thank you for the soup."
Aerith watched him go before calling out, "Good night..."
When he was gone the moogles flew out from under the table. Aerith watched him go and let out a sad sigh.
"Are you okay?" Mog asked.
"The soup is done," Aerith replied, in a daze.