The Lady in Red Fur
Chapter 13
"Aerith you can't run away!" Mog protested. "He probably doesn't even know you are here."
Aerith was frantically trying to shove as much things as she could in her satchel. She looked up at Mog and shook her head furiously. "He knows! He knows I am here. Why else would he come here? He's going to take me back."
Tears began to form in her eyes and she began trying to fill her satchel. Mog flew over and grabbed the satchel dragging it from her. Aerith gasped and pulled it back. The two began a tug-o-war match between the satchel.
"Leave it alone!" Aerith yelled.
"No!" Mog said, his wings batting wildly. "You said you wouldn't run away anymore!"
"That was before Weiss decided to show up! I won't go back to that!" Aerith said struggling.
Cosmog and Moglin did not know what to do. They were trying to get their two friends to stop arguing. However, neither intended to let go of the satchel.
"Why can't you understand?" Aerith cried pulling as hard as she could.
"Why... can't... you?" Mog said, yanking the bag.
"Do you want me to marry him?" Aerith snapped.
"I want you to be happy not miserable!" Mog yelled. "If you run away again it won't solve anything!"
"I have no choice!"
Mog's face became hot and he suddenly let go of the satchel. Aerith went tumbling backwards, the satchel landing on her with a thump. Aerith groaned and looked up to see Mog glaring at her. Aerith looked shocked to see her friend so angry. For as long as she'd known him she had never seen him like this. It left her speechless but Mog had plenty to say to her.
"You have a choice!" he explained his voice filled with anger. "Yes, so we all helped you to run away from Weiss but that was then. This is now. You are going to abandon Cloud when you two finally got together and can be happy. Why? Why would you throw that all away? Do you think Cloud will let Weiss just drag you off?"
Aerith looked down, her hands tightened around her satchel. "He will... my mother promised him to me."
Mog let out a irritated noise and then yelled once more. "FINE! Run away. Do whatever you want. But I am not helping you anymore because now you are just being... being... stupid!"
Mog flew toward the window and violently threw it open. It smacked hard against the wall before he flew away. Aerith got up and looked out the window. She was searching for Mog but found he was long gone. Cosmog and Moglin were both in a state of shock. Neither of them expected such an outburst from him. Mog had always been so supportive of Aerith and would do anything to help her. Aerith looked sadly out into the distance. She fell against the windowsill feeling miserable.
"Mog, don't go," she said, as if he could hear her. "I need you."
When Mog did not return, Aerith decided to finish packing. When she was done, she spotted her coat. She sadly stared at the red fur coat. She picked it up and held it in her hands. Once again she would be concealed under this and hide from the world. Would it matter though? People now knew who she was. She touched the fur absentmindedly. If she went far enough no one would know.
Could she truly live her life under a coat forever? Never to look at people fully but spy from beneath a hood at them? She closed her eyes and draped the coat over her. Aerith resolved to find a warm place to live. She would sell the three dresses on her way, for real this time.
Yet her mind drifted to Cloud when she noticed her mother's ring on her finger. He had placed it on her last night when he discovered who she was. It saddened her that after all this she would have to leave him. She felt as if she should have known this would happen. Her heart ached painfully as she looked up at Cosmog and Moglin. They looked sadly back at her but neither spoke.
"I should get going... the sooner I leave the more distance I can put between us." she said, indicating King Weiss. Yet, at that moment it was not Weiss she was thinking about putting distance between. It was Cloud instead. The farther she was away from him the easier it would be to be apart from him.
Aerith stood up and was about to fasten the coat around her. She hesitated for a moment and then failed to fasten it, feeling unease. Eventually, someone would come to call for her, maybe Cloud would come himself. If he found her gone he would be heartbroken. Would he too search for her? The princess pushed the thoughts from her mind finding it too painful to continue.
Aerith placed the satchel around her. She looked solemnly at Moglin and Cosmog. "Let's go before anyone notices I am missing."
Aerith reached the door and pulled it open. She took a step out blindly before instantly colliding into someone. Aerith gasped as a pair of hands steadied her. She looked up to see who it was she bumped into only to see it was none other than Cloud. Moglin and Cosmog flew under the bed, as if they had not already been spotted by Cloud.
"C-Cloud..." she whispered in shock.
"Where are you going to go?" he said, his voice full of worry. He chest was rising and falling rapidly his breath shallow as if he had sprinted here.
"N-no nowhere." she lied badly. Her heart ached for lying.
"I know you are trying to leave." he said. "Why would you leave. I promised I would protect you. Am I that unreliable?"
"You... you know?" Aerith gasped.
Aerith's eyes turned to see a figure floating behind Cloud. Mog was there looking at her, part of him guilty. Aerith looked at her moogle friend and then at Cloud.
"Mog..." Aerith said sadly.
Upon hearing his name, Cosmog and Moglin flew out from beneath the bed. They stared at their friend in shock. Cloud looked mildly shocked to see the two moogles but since he already witnessed Mog, he got over it quickly.
"Mog, why would you do this?"
"Because you are being foolish!" Cloud answered for the moogle. "Look at me, Aerith, please tell me what is going on. If you care for me you will come to me when something is wrong. Am I unreliable to you?"
"It's not that!" Aerith broke away. "I want to be with you more than anything."
Cloud closed the distance between them, taking her hands in his. "Then tell me. I can't help you unless you tell me!"
Aerith turned him, tears in her eyes. "Cloud, don't you see why King Weiss is coming here. He is looking for me. I am the Princess of the Cetra. I am Princess Aerith."
Cloud looked shocked for a moment but said nothing. He waited for her to continue. Aerith was mildly surprised Mog had not said such things to the king. Perhaps the moogle thought it best she explain everything.
"I am intended to marry him." she said finally.
She tried to slip her hands from him, embarrassed, but Cloud only held her more firmly. Aerith looked up at him and a few tears slipped from her eyes. Cloud brought one of hands up and wiped the tears gently with his thumb before placing a kiss on her forehead.
"It will be okay," he whispered.
"I wish it was true..." Aerith muttered. "If I don't marry him war will break out... my kingdom will be easily targeted by others. This alliance is needed to secure my kingdom's future."
"If that's true then why run away in the first place?" Cloud asked.
"King Weiss is beyond cruel. His intentions are nothing but despicable. If he gains control of my kingdom it will spell disaster to it and any other kingdom. I cannot let it happen. What else could I do but run away? His army alone would destroy my kingdom but if I disappeared... made it look like I was kidnapped then he would not go to war with mine."
Aerith moved to her bed, taking Cloud with her. She slumped down to her bed, grabbing at the coat around her.
"I made... the moogles made this to help me hide from him, from the world." she explained. "Then I met you and everything I was trying to do became a mess. I wanted to see you as me the real me and not "My Lady" or "Red Fur" or any other name I was given. Now it feels like it is a mistake. He will be here and demand my return... I'm sorry."
She cried. Cloud knelt before her. His hands brushed her cheeks gently.
"Don't cry," he whispered. "Everything will be alright, I swear."
"But..." she began.
"Hush," he said place a finger over her lips. "Trust me and I will think of something."
He stood up. "I finally have you and I am not going to let you go."
Aerith smiled and Cloud himself smiled. He took her hands and helped her up. Gently he kissed both of her her hands. "I won't let him take you from me."
Aerith hugged him, burying her face in his chest. Cloud held her in his warm embrace, offering her comfort. Cloud smirked and then said to lighten the mood, "So, its true if you plant a kupo nut tree that moogles appear."
Aerith laughed as she looked up at him. "Something like that."
"So who are your friends?"
"These are Mog," the yellow pom-pom moogle Cloud already met bowed. "Moglin," the female moogle curtsied perfectly in air. "And lastly is Cosmog," the chubby moogle smiled and waved.
"Pleasure is all mine." Cloud said politely. "You know they don't have to hide anymore. The palace is open to them as well."
"The kitchen too?" Cosmog asked, excited.
Mogling slapped her forehead. "Really?"
Aerith, Cloud, and Mog burst out laughing.
After finally comforting Aerith, and making sure she would not run away, Cloud called a meeting with his adviser and his guards. Rufus had seated himself in a chair while Zack, Tifa, Reno, Rude, Tseng and Elena all stood. None of them were sure what was going on at first but Cloud quickly explained the predicament.
"Of course the girl you would like would be already engaged," Rufus sighed, causing a glared from everyone else in the room. He ignored them and continued. "So what do we do? King Weiss is not going to take no for an answer."
"Well it's not like he has an entire army marching at our doorstep," Zack said. "We could just throw him out and tell him not to come back."
"Then a whole army will be at our doorstep," Tseng pointed out. "Weiss's army is trained exceptionally well. We don't want a war."
"You don't think we could beat them?" Reno asked obviously offended. "Rude and I could take down ten of those guys on our own."
Rude nodded. "We are well trained too."
"It's not about being trained well," Rufus said. "Are you truly willing to go to war over a girl?"
Everyone looked at Cloud. Cloud looked at them with stern conviction. Rufus sighed again.
"My King we need to think this over," Elena said gently. "Our army is big, no doubt, but the Tsviets out number us three to one."
"Exactly the problem," Tseng agreed.
Suddenly, the door burst open and King Cid walked in with Vincent and Barret behind him. Cid was already hollering profanities at his nephew, enough to make everyone in the room blush.
"Uncle not now..." Cloud said.
"Don't tell me what to do you little shit." Cid snapped. "Are you shitting me? You are planning to go to war over a girl?"
"Who told him?" Cloud asked, eyeing everyone in the room.
"Who the hell do you think told me? Your entire castle is a string of gossipers. Of course I heard the stupidest shit you are about to do and if you think I am about to let you start a stupid war over some girl you are bat shit insane!"
Cloud slammed his hand on his desk that it echoed in the room. "This isn't just about her!"
"Oh really, then what else is it about?" his uncle asked.
"If Weiss gets control of the Cetra who do you think will gain the resources of that kingdom?" Cloud asked. "You think Weiss isn't going to use that to gain more land and more power? Tsviets kingdom are power hungry warmongers! You know it and I know it. Everyone knows it!"
Cloud rubbed his face in frustration. Most of it was about not letting Aerith go but her fears became Cloud's fears as well. If he let Aerith get married to him it would be disastrous for not just the Cetra people but any other kingdom.
"I care for Aerith too much to let that man have her and her kingdom. She ran away to prevent it and now it is catching up to her. If I do not think of some way to get her out of this mess, Midgar might as well place a giant target on it because Weiss is probably attack us for having her in our kingdom to begin with."
Cid could see his nephew's stress radiating off him. His eyes softened.
"So what's your plan then?" Cid asked.
"This is why I am having this meeting. I need ideas."
The occupants of the room looked at one another.
"Maybe we can say she disappeared." Zack said. "We can hide her in her room."
"Sounds like a plan to me," said Reno.
"Until he realizes we lied and marches his army at us," Rufus pointed out.
"Maybe we can explain to King Weiss that she doesn't want to marry him." Tifa suggested.
Rufus laughed. "Please, the warmonger king? Listen to our pleas of love. Give me a break. His marriage to the princess is political not love."
"Would he even want to go to war with us?" Elena asked.
Rufus stared at her. She held up her hands and looked away. It was an obvious yes. Cloud rubbed his face again feeling worn out.
"Would he go to war with Nibelheim as well?" Cid asked.
Cloud looked at his uncle dumbfounded. He shook his head. "No I won't allow you to be involved."
"Shut up, I am already involved from just standing here." he then looked at Rufus. "Would he go to war with both of us?"
Rufus shrugged. "Not likely but still a possibility. You, however, do have airships. The only kingdom that does and it puts you at an advantage. The Tviests would be utterly devastated with an air attack..."
"I sense a butt in there..." Cid said.
"If he does declare war on you he would most likely attempt to cripple your air fleet. Thus putting your kingdom in a vulnerable spot. However, considering that Nibelheim is surrounded by mountains he would have a harder time attack your city and your ships."
The council went back and forth trying to come up with a plan for hours. With each plan came Rufus's rebuttal. He was not trying to be negative, despite each groan that came when he answered, he was trying to be realistic. The Tsviets kingdom a major threat and if they did go to war with them, it would not be a victory easily one. After so many hours of talking and getting no where, Cloud called a break needing to clear his head.
When everyone left, Cloud slumped into his chair. He thought of Aerith and knew how worried she was. If he failed to come up with an idea to keep her safe and prevent an all out war with Weiss, he would lose her. Could he even let her go with King Weiss? Could he even let her run away and hide? No, he could not. Cloud wanted and needed her with him. He cared, dare he think it, loved her. Losing her was not an option.
What could he do though? Time was running out and he was no closer to a solution then before. Cloud leaned back in his chair, he stared at the ceiling unsure of himself. If he went to war because of this his people would think him a fool and lose all hope in their king. Sometimes he wished his father and mother were here to guide him, to tell him what to do.
"Someone seems stressed," said a sly voice.
Cloud jumped at the sudden intrusion. He searched his room and spotted Cait Sith curled up in the chair that Rufus had recently occupied.
"What do you want?" Cloud groaned. "I am too busy to deal with your sneaking around."
"Oh really, perhaps I should take my business elsewhere then?" the cat said standing in the chair. "Surprised you would turn away my help so easily."
"You can't help me." Cloud said sadly.
Cait Sith let out a growl. "Is that so? Oh how you forget things so easily. Don't you remember what I said upon our first meeting?"
Cloud thought back for a moment. "You're ruler wanted to alliance with me..."
Cait Sith grinned. "Yes, once she found you worthy."
Cloud shook his head. "And how will this help? No offense but you are a cat."
Cait Sith jumped up onto Cloud's desk. He waved a finger at him while giving him a "tut, tut."
"Oh, ye of little faith." Cait Sith purred. "I am hear to help so please listen. My queen has given me word to strike a deal with you. If you agree I am sure it will benefit everyone. Ignore me then... I am afraid I wish you luck in your predicament."
The King leaned forward. "I'm listening."
The cat smiled and sat down on the desk. "Then listen very closely your highness."
X, X, X,
When the next day came, Aerith was anxious. She could not stomach to eat much and excused herself from breakfast. Cloud was kind enough to have a new dress brought to her to wear. It was a simple white and pink dress. Aerith adored it as it was light and airy. She walked around the gardens with her moogles, who now freely moved about the castle with her. Many of the servants were in shock that moogles actually existed. Many of the female servants were cooing at how adorable they looked.
"Finally, the attention I deserve," Moglin said adjusting a ribbon one of the servants had given her to wear. She had placed it around her neck like a choker.
Mog and Cosmog rolled their eyes.
"I feel like a princess," she gushed excitedly.
Aerith laughed. "Don't let it go to your head now. Once they get used to you they won't be showering you with gifts."
"You think they won't give me anymore of these cream puffs?" Cosmog asked as he ate a incredibly large profiterole stuffed full of cream.
"They are just trying to make your belly fatter so they can poke you more." Moglin said in disgust.
"I would rather they not notice me too much. I am not fond of attention," Mog said. "I prefer the peace and quiet."
Aerith took a seat on the grassy knoll underneath the kupo nut tree. "It's quiet out here."
At the same moment Cosmog took a big bite of his pastry, slurping up the cream that spilled all over his paws. Moglin glared at him in disgust. Mog shook his head but smiled. Aerith grinned.
"I think they will stuff you until you explode, Cosmog." Aerith pointed out.
"I hope so," Cosmog said licking his fingers. "These cream puffs are ALMOST as good as kupo nuts. You think they can make kupo nut cream?"
Aerith shrugged. The thought of it made Cosmog go into a dreamy state. He fell on his back on the grass and rubbed his belly, dreaming of a delicious pastry he concocted. Moglin rolled her eyes and remained floating. She refused to sit down on the grass since she was given a luxurious bath by the servants. They had showered her in floral bath oils and salts. They even brushed her fur free of tangles. Her fur was now back to its normal glossy white and she intended to keep it that way. Moglin was enjoying the idea of being pampered as much as Cosmog enjoyed being given food. Mog was the one who shied away.
"So are you worried?" Mog asked, joining Aerith on the ground. "About today?"
Aerith shrugged. "Cloud told me to believe in him and I will."
When Cloud told her to trust him, she wanted to. She wanted to believe whatever would happen he would handle it. She would be safe here. Weiss would not hurt her. The very thought of the vile king touching her again sent shivers down her spine. She wrapped her arms around her.
"I am sure it will be fine," Mog tried to assure her.
Aerith nodded. "You're right. I have to believe."
"What time will they arrive?"
"No idea," Aerith said. "I am sure I will be called to the throne room once he arrives."
Aerith would loved to have avoided seeing him. Yet, it was unavoidable she assumed. Her presence was necessary. Until then, Aerith did not want to think about it. Instead she wanted to enjoy the cool spring air and the warm sun kissing her skin.
"Today is such a nice day." Aerith said. "I bet back home the flowers are beginning to bloom again. It makes me homesick."
"Once this is all said and done, you can go home and visit your mom." Mog said.
"I miss her and everyone else..." Aerith looked down. "After I acted so terrible to them before I left... I... I should apologize."
"They will understand why," Mog assured her.
Moglin who was still messing with her ribbon nodded. "Oh yes, they will understand. Especially when that rude monster of a human being was causing all sorts of trouble for your family."
Moglin's nose crinkled as it smelled something awful. "Those Tsviets were just terrible people. Disgusting, despicable, badly dressed, smelly, and..."
Before she could continue Mog's eyes widened. "Moglin! Watch out!"
Aerith jumped at the sudden shout but it was too late. Moglin was grabbed violently by her ribbon and held dangling by it. She began to cry out, choking as the person tightened their hold on her. Aerith let out a gasp. Cosmog and Mog flew into the air, their fur standing on end.
Standing before them was a woman clad in red who looked all too familiar to Aerith. Her heart stopped and the color drained from her face.
"Rosso!" she cried.
"Well, well what do we have here?" the female bodyguard of Weiss asked. "Someone insulting his highness? That's grounds for an immediate punishment. Don't you think so Azul?"
As she spoke, Azul came in view, his footsteps heavy on the ground. He stood by his comrade as she took out her weapon that rested at her hip. She held it to Moglin's stomach intending to stab her. Moglin cried out frantically, trying to move away from the blade.
"Rosso, no, leave her alone!" Aerith cried.
"You be silent princess," she snapped. "Who do you think you are? You are in no position to speak to me. You little wretch. To think we thought someone had kidnapped you but instead you were here whoring yourself off to some king."
Azul nodded, "Learn to keep quiet like a good little girl."
Aerith clenched her fists. "Shut up and let her go!"
Rosso laughed. "And what will a weak little child like you do to me?"
Aerith swallowed. What could she do? She was not a fighter. Even if she tried she was sure Rosso would easily dispatch her. Her threat was hollow and Rosso knew it.
"I never thought a moogle existed. I wonder what color it bleeds? What do you think Azul?" A sadistic smile appeared on her face. "I am sure if Prince Nero heard of their existence he would love to hunt them. Well, since there are two more... I am sure I can satisfy my curiosity with this one."
Aerith screamed as Rosso raised her blade to stab Moglin. However, a sharp cry came and a figure zoomed past Aerith in blinding speed toward Rosso. Aerith watched as he collided into Rosso's midsection, knocking the air our of her and effectively setting Moglin free. The female moogle flew straight into Aerith arms.
Aerith gasped and watched as Cosmog began clawing at Rosso violently. Aerith was stunned to see the chubbier moogle had come to the defense of Moglin more quickly than Mog. Normally Mog was the braver of the trio. However, before she could even admire his bravery Azul moved forward and violently backhanded Cosmog as hard as he could. Cosmog went sailing into the air before landing on the ground and skidding a few paces away.
Moglin cried as she zoomed over to him. "Cosmog! Oh Cosmog!"
Rosso growled and stood up. She ignored the pathetic moogle and glared at Aerith. The princess looked frightened of her. Mog flew in front of her holding his arms out as if he were shield. Rosso was not phased and held out her sword ready to attack. Aerith wrapped her arms around Mog protectively.
"Please don't hurt him!" Aerith cried.
Rosso brought up her sword intending to strike them whizzing sound echoed in the air. Next thing Aerith heard was a loud cry coming from Rosso and the sound of clanking metal. Aerith looked up to see Rosso clutching her hand that was now bleeding. She was seething painfully as blood gushed out. Her sword was lying on the ground. Azul was looking dumbfounded.
"What the...?" Aerith said.
"Hey Red!" came the voice of Yuffie.
Yuffie ran toward her, holding a circular weapon with her. She skidded to a stop in front of Aerith, a worried look on her face.
"Red... I mean Aerith... Princess Aerith," she said quickly, "Are you okay? Are you hurt?"
"No but... Cosmog..." she indicated her moogle friend.
Yuffie looked over to see the chubby moogle passed out on the ground with the female one sobbing over him. Yuffie growled.
"Sorry I am late then, won't happen again." she said, clutching her weapon.
Rosso looked up. "What's this your new bodyguard," She spat.
"Yes I am!" Yuffie spat back. "I am her bodyguard and you are going to leave her and her friends alone!"
Rosso smirked. "Oh really? You know, I remember this one little bodyguard. Thought she was some decent fighter. You know what I did with her, hm?"
Aerith felt her heart clench. Her thoughts flashed back to the woman she would gladly call sister, her own protector. "Cissnei..."
"I left her a bloody mess on the ground." Rosso said, her voice sinister.
Azul chuckled, "Couldn't even walk afterward."
"You think I am scared of you?" Yuffie said, standing her ground.
Aerith grabbed her arm. "Yuffie, don't... please don't."
The younger girl looked back at the princess. "I've been training Aerith. I got this."
Yuffie pulled her arm free and readied her stance. Rosso gave amused smile as she took her own stance.
"I am going to enjoy spilling your blood little girl," she said.
Rosso began running at Yuffie but she never made even halfway before someone else interceded into the fight. Rosso's feet flung out from under her and she landed on the ground face first. Then with one hand her attacker pinned one of her arms behind her back.
"Who do you think you are drawing your weapon in the king's private garden?" snapped a blonde-haired woman.
"Elena!" Yuffie called.
"I thought I told you to bring the princess to the throne room, not start a fight." Elena barked.
"She attacked the moogles. I had to do something." Yuffie whined, stamping her foot.
Elena let go of Rosso and stood up. The woman spat and glared at the petite woman.
"Get in my way again," Rosso threatened, "and we will rip you to shreds."
Azul flexed his muscles as if to be intimidating but Elena's stern face showed no fear.
Elena snorted. "Return to your master before I have you locked up. This is your only warning."
Rosso glared at Elena. However, upon realizing the blonde would not be intimidated she sheathed her sword. She turned to Azul and the two left without much fuss.
Elena looked over at Yuffie but Aerith ignored both of them and ran toward Cosmog's side along with Mog. Moglin was still sobbing over him.
"Cosmog wake up," Moglin cried. "You poor brave, stupid moogle."
Tears brimmed the eyes of his friends. Aerith covered her mouth as she noticed his face starting to swell. Mog touched him, feeling for his pulse.
"Will he be okay?" Aerith asked.
"Ugh... his pulse is weak!" Mog cried.
Moglin let out a wail and clung to the chubbier moogle sobbing. "Cosmog! Wake up! I know I am mean to you sometimes but I don't mean it. Please wake up I swear I won't make fun of you and you can have some of my kupo nuts... oh wake up please."
Almost like magic the chubby moogle sat straight up. His nose twitched and in a very soft voice he said, "I want your next portion of soup too."
"COSMOG!" the group cried.
Moglin nearly knocked him over as she hugged him, flinging herself to him.
"Oh you stupid moogle! You had me worried sick! I hate you!" she cried smacking him repeatedly.
Cosmog grunted and then said teasingly, "Afraid I was gone forever?"
Moglin shoved her paw in face. "Ugh! You were faking it weren't you! Oh, I hate you!"
Mog and Aerith looked at one another and rolled their eyes. However, Aerith leaned over and took Cosmog in her arms hugging him. She was so grateful he was okay. Cosmog blushed and snuggled into Aerith.
"I am so glad you are okay." She squeezed him gently. A few silent tears slipped from her eyes and landed on his head. Cosmog did not care.
Elena looked over at Yuffie and frowned. "When she is calm take her to the King's waiting room. I will notify him to what has happened."
Yuffie nodded. Elena spun on her heels and left the gardens in haste. Yuffie looked over at her friend. She carefully knelt down in front of her. She placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. Aerith looked up at her with fear in her eyes.
"I don't want to go," she whispered to Yuffie. "I don't want to see them anymore. Please, don't make me go."
Her voice was trembling and it broke Yuffie's heart. The young girl knew she had to bring her to see Cloud but a part of her did not want to. Everything would be fine though. Yuffie knew that. She gave her a reassuring smile in hopes to calm her down.
"Princess," Yuffie said. "It will be all right-"
"NO!" Aerith cried out, standing up suddenly. "I don't want to go."
With Cosmog still in her arms, Aerith fled the garden. She hurried inside desperate to go to her room and lock the door. Seeing Rosso and Azul again, watching them do such terrible things brought back such horrible images of the past to her mind. It frightened her to think that when everything was said and done, she could be taken away. King Weiss would get his way, he always did. She would end up as his. He would hurt her friends, probably even hurt her.
After nearly reaching her room, Aerith felt a hand grab her arm. She cried out in shock and turned around to see Cloud before her. Relief washed over her. She panted out labored breaths, her grip on Cosmog slacked allowing him freedom to fly away. The king looked at the princess and opened his mouth to speak but before he could she launched herself into his arms. She wrapped her arms tightly around his waist.
"Please," she begged. "Don't let him take me away."
Cloud, who upon hearing the news, hastily made his way to the garden. Fear enveloped him. He did not even say a word. He pushed past everyone and went to find his beloved princess. He had to be certain she was not hurt. Yet, feeling her trembling body against him only saddened him more.
"Aerith," he said gently, taking her head in her hands.
Cloud gently tilted her head up to look at the frightened girl. His blue eyes searched into her green ones, offering assurance. Aerith felt a warmth wash over her as she looked at him. He leaned forward and brushed his lips tenderly to hers. When he looked at her again he smiled.
"Do you trust me?" he asked.
Aerith nodded.
"Then trust me that everything will be fine."
"But... I am frightened." she admitted.
Cloud looked at her. "You cannot let them frighten you. I will not let them. You have nothing to worry about."
Aerith looked at him, searching his face for any hint of doubt. There was not one. He smiled again at her and held out his hand for her to take.
"Come," he gently said.
Aerith took the outstretched hand. Her fingers laced with his. She smiled at him and gently began to lead her away. Cosmog followed behind. The three arrived in Cloud's waiting room. Upon their entrance, a look of relief washed over those waiting inside. Mog and Moglin flew to their companion glad that he was better. Mog already had a salve for his swollen face. Moglin was glad it was only a minor injury, albeit she was still slightly angry with him.
"Is everything all right?' Rufus asked.
"Fine," Cloud said."What of our guests?"
Cloud's words seethed with anger when he said "guests."
"Pretty sure they are annoyed," said Zack with a smirk. "Should we keep them waiting?"
"I got a better idea," said Reno. "Let's send your uncle to talk to them."
King Cid who was in the room grunted his disapproval. "As if I want to talk to that piece of sh-"
"Your highness," Vincent warned. "Language please."
Cid rolled his eyes. "How about I send Barret and Vincent to throw them out?"
Barret grinned. "Wouldn't take us that long."
Vincent cocked his head. "We could."
Cloud shook his head as he let go of Aerith's hand. "No, this is my kingdom and I will handle this."
"So what is the plan then, your majesty?" Tseng asked. "I do not trust that things will go smooth."
"Tsviets are not going to simply leave just because you asked." Zack added.
Cloud walked over to a table where a crown was resting on a pillow. Unlike the jewel encrusted crowns she was used to in her own kingdom, Cloud's crown was pure gold of simple design. He took the crown and placed it on his head and looked over at his servants.
"If things get out of hand, I trust you all to do what your duty," Cloud said looking at his guards. "Until then I will handle King Weiss."
"You do know he doesn't think of you as a king, right?" Cid said. "You're a kid to him."
Cloud's eyes narrowed and for a second Aerith felt as he was going to snap on his uncle. Instead he held his head high.
"I may be young," he said, his voice radiating with power. "But I am king of this land and if he thinks he can intimidate me then he is wrong. Weiss uses his power to control others but he will not control me."
Aerith blinked, realizing she had been staring at the young king. There was an air about him. One that made her believe everything he was saying. There was no hint of fear in him or his words.
"Take your places," he ordered his guards and then turned to Rufus. "Prepare to announce me."
In unison his guards and his adviser bowed before saying, "Yes, my king."
They exited the room as Cid approached his nephew. He clasped his shoulder and looked at the younger man with a smirk on his face.
"Heh, you remind me of your parents more and more, ya' little shit." Cid stated causing Cloud to smile. "I am behind you one hundred percent."
He then exited, followed by his guards. Cloud looked over at Aerith. She smiled back at him as he once again offered his hand to her.
"You don't have to be afraid," he reiterated to her. "I will protect you."
Aerith took his hand. "I know."
Mog, Moglin and Cosmog flew to her, hugging her close and offering her their support. The princess smiled even more, if possible. Cloud began to lead her from the room when he stopped and turned to Mog. He leaned over and whispered something in his ear. The moogle's eyes widened slightly before nodding. He grabbed both his companions and flew the other direction from the throne.
"Where are they going?" Aerith asked.
"Don't worry about that for now." he commanded gently. "Let's go."
He led her from the waiting room to a side door that would lead to the throne. He bent his arm and placed Aerith's hand on the elbow. He took in a deep breath but kept his eyes fixated on the doors. From the other side he could hear Rufus.
"I now formally present, His Royal Highness, The King of Midgar, Cloud Strife."
One of his servants opened the door for him and Cloud stepped through with Aerith. Aerith gripped Cloud tightly as they entered the throne room. Cloud kept his eyes on his royal chair as he walked but Aerith could sense the unease in the room. She knew he was there waiting for her. At his throne, Cloud unbent his arm. He glanced at Aerith and gave her a reassuring look before taking his seat. Once he moved from her line of vision her eyes fell on the "guests" before them.
Even from the distance, Aerith felt her body go numb. She clasped her hands together to keep them from shaking. King Weiss stood looking just as intimidating as ever, dressed in his simple but regal attire. At his side as always was his brother Nero who looked just as angry as he always did. Behind them was Rosso who was nursing her now bandaged hand and Azul with his arms crossed over his broad chest. All four of them struck fear in Aerith. Her eyes shifted to Cloud and he did not seem bothered by any of them.
"Now presenting," Rufus said trying his best not to laugh at the name. "King of the Tsviets Kingdom, Weiss the Immaculate."
Aerith could have sworn she heard Reno snort a small laugh but she was unsure.
"And his brother, Prince Nero the Sable," Rufus continued. He did not read out the names or titles of Azul and Rosso as they were not royalty nor was this meeting between them and Cloud.
Cloud nodded and said, "Welcome and what do I owe this unexpected visit?"
Cloud knew why he was here. Why he was feigning ignorance made Aerith curious.
"You know why I am here," Weiss boomed. "It is not some secret from the rest of the kingdoms. Are you that clueless about things boy?"
Cloud did not even flinch instead he gave Weiss a pleasant smile. "I guess we are beyond formalities then?"
"We have been beyond formalities when you abducted my fiancee." he snapped.
"I abducted?" Cloud said. "I did no such thing. The princess arrived her of her own freewill and under guise."
Weiss's eyes narrowed but he was not looking at Cloud. He was looking at Aerith. He now knew she fled from him. The fury in his eyes burned through her.
"Regardless if you abducted her or not," Nero stepped into the conversation. "We are hear to take her back with us. She is promised to my brother. She is his betrothed."
Aerith looked away shamefully when Cloud looked up at her. He already knew that but Aerith felt ashamed nonetheless.
"Is that so?" Cloud said, nonchalant.
"Her mother and I have come to an agreement." Weiss was still looking at her, intending to remind her of what was at stake. "Our marriage will form an alliance and it will benefit both our kingdoms. She will return with me and we will be married... unless..."
Aerith looked up at him. Unless what? Aerith swallowed hard as the Tsviet King continued.
"Unless she is breaking our agreement," he said, his voice becoming sinister. "In which case then I will show your pathetic kingdom, princess, exactly why Tsviets are a force to be reckon with."
A collective gasp echoed through the hall. The color drained from Aerith's face. Did King Weiss really mean what he was saying. Would he truly attack her own kingdom if she did not return? One look at his face and Aerith knew the truth. He would.
What could she do now? Her kingdom would be decimated if Weiss brought his forces against it. The innocent lives, her friends, the people she grew up with and loved, her mother... all of them would be killed.
"Come here princess," Weiss commanded. "You wasted enough of my time."
Aerith looked at him. Sadness etched its way across her face. She bowed her head wanting to cry. She had no choice. She could not be selfish and say no. There was no way she could let her kingdom be destroyed. It was over. Weiss had won. He always won. Aerith had only delayed what was to come for her.
The princess took a step down, preparing to return to the King she loathed. Before she could get far, Cloud's hand clamped on to her arm and pulled her back to him. The young king stood from his throne, holding the princess to him. The action startled Aerith and the Tsviets as well.
"What is the meaning of this?" Weiss asked, his temper rising. "Release my bride, boy, or I will show you what a real king does when he is disrespected!"
Cloud did not even flinch. "Let me make something very clear to you, King Weiss. First: This is my kingdom. I rule here and you will show me respect. Second, you will never ever again threaten the Cetra Kingdom unless you wish to see why Midgar and Nibelheim are forces to be reckon with."
"Who the hell do you think you are to talk to my brother like that?" Nero seethed, stepping closer.
Cloud's voice boomed, full of strength and authority. "I am King Cloud of Midgar. I may be young but I have earned the respect and loyalty of my people, my servants, guards, everyone in this room. I have also earned the respect of Queen Ifalna of the Cetra as well."
Aerith gaped in shock. She looked up at Cloud in confusion upon hearing her mother's name. Cloud slipped his hand around her protectively but his eyes never left the king before him.
"What are you saying..." Weiss asked, utterly confused.
A smirk appeared on Cloud's faced. "You are no longer intended to marry the princess. Seems that Queen Ifalna decided that there was someone much better suited for her daughter. That would be me, King Weiss, and if you do not believe me..."
He snapped his fingers and Rufus who was now wearing a similar smirk brought Cloud a document. Cloud took it. He looked briefly at Aerith before letting her go. He walked down the three steps from his throne and approached Weiss before throwing the document at him.
"An agreement from Queen Ifalna." Cloud said. "Signed by her and the seal from the Cetra Kingdom. Please, take your time and read it and once you finish, please remove yourself from my throne room and leave Midgar immediately."
The shocked looked on Weiss's face was enough to know he truth of the documents contents. Aerith felt relief wash over her once the realization hit her. Somehow, someway Cloud had saved her. She would not have to marry King Weiss. Everything would be all right now. Around the room, everyone was pleased with the way Cloud handled himself. Cid was grinning with pride at his nephew. Cloud turned away ready to take his place at his throne. Rufus walked toward him, whispering congratulations to him.
"How dare you!" Nero growled.
The prince lunged at Cloud. Aerith screamed out for Cloud to watch out. However, there was a loud bang and second later Nero was on the floor clutching his side. To the surprise of everyone in the room, Rufus was gently rubbing his hand.
"Did Rufus do what I think he did?" Zack asked Tifa.
Tifa nodded. "I didn't know he could do that."
Rufus chuckled. "What? You don't think I just sit around and tell the King what to do all the time, do you?"
Cloud smiled. "Most of the time you do."
Rufus with surprising force had sent the rude prince to the ground. Apparently, the adviser was not just a mere person Cloud spoke to about the kingdom issues. Nero was whining on the floor, clutching his now sore side. Weiss glared at Rufus.
"How dare you strike my brother!" snapped Weiss. "Azul! Rosso! Bring me his head!"
"With pleasure!" Rosso said.
"Yes, my king!" Azul roared.
The two charged forward but before they could get far, it was Tifa and Zack who came between them. Tifa did not even bother with Rosso but went straight for Azul. The bigger man went to attack but Tifa proved to be quicker and sent the bigger man sprawling to the ground with a few good strikes. Rosso attempted to strike at Zack but the raven-haired man dodged her attack with ease.
"You know you need to relax," Zack mused. "You might hurt yourself."
Rosso did not like being made a fool and let out a screech. She went to strike the raven haired man but Zack grabbed wrist and twisted her arm aound, much like Elena did earlier. Zack looked over at the blonde-haired woman and winked. She grinned back at him. Zack then shoved her back to her king, throwing her carelessly to the floor.
Weiss looked disgusted at his guards. He looked at Cloud but could not find a thing to say to him. The young king had beaten him in every way. His bodyguards proved useless. His brother was acting like a sniveling fool. He could not declare war on this king either for now Queen Ifalna was aligned with him. Instead of arguing anymore or making himself look more the fool, he turned to leave.
"We shall take our leave then," the king hissed, while trying to keep what dignity he had left.
Cloud watched as they prepared to leave when Mog, Moglin, and Cosmog entered the throne room, each carrying one of the dresses Weiss had made for Aerith. The three moogles carelessly dropped them at his feet before fluttering their way to their princess.
"Oh, and please take these back. I will not be having my future wife wearing a dress you had given her." Cloud said.
With that he took his seat back on his throne, smiling smugly. Weiss growled and had Azul take the dresses before all four of them stalked out of the room. Once they were gone, cheers erupted. Aerith looked at Cloud and he at her. He opened his hand to her and she instantly took it.
"I said I would protect you," he said.
Aerith replied shyly, "And you did."
"Now that you already know... Aerith," he said. "I'd be honored that you would become my wife."
Aerith blushed, "I would very much like that."