~Embrace Your Dreams~

[Keyblade Master Roxas]

YouTube - FF VII:Crisis Core OST - Fulfilled Desire

“The price of freedom is high...”

Chapter 1: Memories

Zack supposed he should have expected that they would catch up to them eventually. It seemed so cruel, though, that they would come so far, only to be thwarted just outside of Midgar.

'At least Cloud's safe for now...' was Zack's consoling thought. With a grim smile, he adjusted the Buster sword on his back, scanning his opponents. His smile had a hint of smugness to it as he took it all in; of course, they would send the entire Shinra army to capture him – they knew who they were dealing with. The fact that it was the entire army probably explained the lateness of their arrival – moving such a large force would be quite the task...not to mention that the Shinra army lacked the finesse of SOLDIER, in Zack's personal opinion.

With a sigh only audible to himself, he hoisted the Buster sword off of his back and held it between two steady hands. If Shinra wanted a fight, he would give them a fight they would never forget – and by the looks of it, they definitely wanted a fight. With a loud battle cry, he rushed into a battle where he would be hopelessly outnumbered.

--

The air in Sector 5 was muggy – muggier than usual, that is. Since the slums were under the plates, the air generally had a sort of...suffocating feel to it, but this time it was definitely related to the weather. Though the sun was shining up above, the planet foretold of gloomier things.

The storm is gathering, the planet whispered to the flower girl in the church. A storm is coming, as well as the thing you dread. His blood will soak the soil and his soul will feed the Lifestream.It spoke sadly, knowing the pain the flower girl would feel. Aerith's eyes widened at the planet's solemn words, and she stepped back from the flowers she was tending.

'No...' she thought to herself, shaking her head, tears forming in her green eyes. “No!” she exclaimed out loud, refusing to believe the planet, though it had never lied to her before. As the last Cetra, the last Ancient, she knew that the planet would not lie to her...but she also knew that if she accepted what it were saying as true, she could not bear the pain. “He's coming back to me,” she told the planet firmly, as if it would make it true. “He wouldn't...he'll make it back,” she said more to herself this time. 'It's been four years though...' she thought silently. She wondered if he had ever gotten any of her letters...or if he even remembered her after all this time. Maybe he wasn't coming back.

--

As Zack grew weaker and more fatigued with every swing of his giant blade, his thoughts began to wander; his head became less clear, foggy, as though he were losing consciousness. He feebly attempted to dodge another bullet, but he was too slow, and it ripped through his shoulder, tearing muscle and crushing into bone. He staggered, his grip on his weapon limp; his breathing was heavy and uneven – every breath was an effort on his part.

'Only three left...three soldiers to go...then I can take Cloud to Midgar...and finally see Aerith...' Zack's thoughts wandered again, and he was left pondering what her letter had meant. Why was it her last letter to him? Had she moved on...had she forgotten about him?

'No...she wrote me 88 letters...she surely hasn't forgotten me...but maybe...maybe she's mad. I-I was gone for four years according to her last letter. But it feels like just yesterday that Nibelheim...' his thoughts trailed off as another bullet ripped into his chest, and he fell to one knee, cursing his unfocused mind. He coughed painfully, wincing and gritting his teeth; more shots, more bullets tearing through him. He fell backwards, his blue mako infused eyes suddenly gazing at the endless, cloudy sky. 'Aerith...' Zack blinked – it even hurt him to blink! - and smiled softly. 'Aerith...' A warmth spread through his body, though he can't tell if its from his burning wounds or because he couldn't seem to stop thinking about her...but the pain in his body seemed to be lessening, so he decided that thoughts of her were making it better. He closed his eyes and let memories wash over him.

#

Zack didn't know what to expect that day; certainly not Angeal having wings – or rather, wing – or the metal grate beneath him collapsing and sending him falling into oblivion. He didn't know when he blacked out, but suddenly he saw white feathers and heard a voice.

“Hello?”

“Mom?” he said groggily, trying to lift his arms but finding that they were like lead.

“Tell me what's wrong...”

“I...I want to help a friend. But I don't know how.”

“Helloooo?”

Zack realized that his eyes were closed; then he realized that he was able to open them, albeit slowly. As his vision came into focus, he was surprised at what he saw – or rather, who he saw. A vision so breathtaking, he wondered if he were still dreaming. Leaning over him, green eyes open expectantly, brown, soft hair falling down past her shoulders and framing her face, and a small, curious smile on her lips, was an angel.

“Hurray!” she exclaimed when she saw that his eyes were open, and she clapped her hands together, her smile broadening. To Zack, it made her even more stunning.

“Heaven?” he asked dazedly, unable to believe that he could be anywhere else, and that his fall had killed him. He wouldn't have minded being dead though, not if he got to spend heaven with her.

“Not quite,” she giggled. “Church in the slums,” she explained, wondering just how hard he might have hit his head – especially if he thought the slums were heaven! He sat up, hardly aware of his surroundings, only focused on this vision of beauty who was now watching him expectantly again, her white cotton dress swaying softly.

“An angel?” he asked, still not totally convinced she couldn't be otherwise. She shook her head, still smiling.

“No, I'm Aerith!” she turned and pointed up at a hole in the ceiling. “You fell from the sky.” Aerith turned her head back toward him and said simply, “Scared me.”

#

Zack found he couldn't open his eyes. He could hear the rustle of the soldier's armor; the scuffle of worn boots on the gravel and dirt. He still had a smile on his face from the memory of their first meeting. Aerith had scolded him for nearly stepping on her flowers...amazing, yet he had never seen them anywhere else in Midgar. It was like life could thrive where she went. That was when he came up with “Operation Midgar Full of Flowers, Wallet Full Of Money.”

She had told him that day, as she led him toward the market, that she was scared of the sky...afraid that it would swallow her. She was so innocent and pure...soft...everything he wasn't. He hadn't expected to fall through a church ceiling that day...but he definitely hadn't expected to fall in love, either.

#

Zack strolled casually into the park, watching as two children chased each other around the swings and the slide, playing SOLDIER with one another. He cast a glance at Aerith and smiled approvingly at her, admiring the pink bow he had bought and put in her hair for her. Having his wallet stolen was worth spending the extra time with her – and besides, he had gotten his wallet back in the end, and impressed her, to boot. At least, he thought he had impressed her.

“So,” she broke the silence, “ever meet any SOLDIER members?”

“Maybe.” Zack replied vaguely, following behind her.

“Do you think that they're happy?” she replied curiously.

“What do you mean?” Zack couldn't help sounding confused...it was a good question. Was he happy?

“Heroes to children, protectors of the peace. But, they're not normal. They get some kind of special surgery...don't they?” she asked, turning around to face him.

“So they say...” Zack replied with a sinking feeling.

“Normal is best. I think so at least.” Aerith said in a matter of fact way. “Those SOLDIER people are kind of...weird.” she finished, frowning at the thought of them.

“They're...weird, huh?” Zack said softly, crossing his arms and feeling his stomach churn uncomfortably.

“And they're...scary,” she added sadly, looking down toward the sand. “They fight...and the love it.” She finally looked back up at him, expecting a reply. He turned away, his arms still crossed as his stomach churned. Zack didn't know how to feel now. Here was this girl he really liked and...she thought SOLDIERs were weird and scary. He was torn between saying nothing and lying or...telling the truth. 'Normal is best.' Well, Zack knew he wasn't normal...but he wouldn't lie. He had his honor, after all.

“Actually...I'm in SOLDIER,” he finally replied, turning back toward her. She gasped and looked down quickly, ashamed.

“I'm sorry...” she said hurriedly, but all Zack could do was shrug, still feeling a little hurt by all the things she had said. Still, he hoped his first 'date' with her wouldn't become one long, awkward moment. He looked around, wondering what to do next when she broke the silence again.

“So pretty...”

He grinned and turned back to her. “The face?” he asked cockily, smile growing wider. He felt his stomach flutter when she giggled once more and shook her head, smiling.

“The eyes!”

“You like them?” He strolled over, stopping in front of her. “Then take a closer look. Eyes infused with mako energy.” He spoke while leaning closer to her face, adding, “A SOLDIER trademark.” They both stood for a moment, faces close together as they looked into each other's eyes. Zack thought for a moment about kissing her – he certainly wanted to, and the air seemed to be charged with energy. But then, suddenly, she broke out into an embarrassed smile, blushing slightly.

“Oh you!” she laughed, pushing him away softly. He broke into laughter too, the sound of hers music to his ears.

“Color of the sky, right?”

She paused for a moment, then gave a small nod. “Mm-hmm. But not scary at all!” she exclaimed. Zack's stomach flipped in pleasure at her words. He turned around, embarrassed.

“I'll admit, things sure haven't been normal lately. What about you Aerith, how's your life going?” Zack turned back toward her, his embarrassment gone. She laughed softly again, turning her back to him, arms limp at her side.

“I thought it was going to be a normal day...then suddenly, some guy fell out of the sky.” she replied teasingly.

“That's not all that bad!” he teased back. She turned back to face him, her face serious again.

“Mm-hmm,” she nodded in agreement, smiling at him again. The moment was interrupted by a phone call – Zack was reluctant to go, but he knew he had to go take care of Genesis.

“I'm sorry, but, duty calls,” he explained, shrugging. Aerith smiled sadly, then quickly tried to play it cool.

“Well, I guess I should get going then.” She tried to walk away nonchalantly, but then stopped, backing up to look at him again. “Will I...see you again?” she asked uncertainly, the sad look still on her face.

“Of course!” Zack reassured her. How could he ever deny her something as simple as seeing him? He would make time for her, he knew.

“I hope that your friend's okay.” she said softly.

“Huh?” Zack wondered, totally confused.

“You...talk in your sleep.” she spoke apologetically.

“Oh...yeah. Everything will be fine...I know that now.”

#

Zack was aware that the soldiers were still there. How long had they been standing there? Were they going to kill him, or were they taking him back to Hojo? His wounds were pouring blood, with every beat of his heart, though it grew more feeble with each minute. He knew he wasn't going to make it, either way. Each shuddering breath he drew was sharp and painful, and each exhale was ragged and harsh. He wished...that he could have said goodbye to her. He had been so close...he wanted to see her in pink, like he had asked. He wanted to see Midgar full of flowers. He had promised to make a better wagon for her, but then he had had to leave for Nibelheim. Was she still selling flowers, all these years later? He thought so...she wouldn't have given up on the flowers.

A movement distracted him from his thoughts. One of the soldiers was peering at him warily, in case Zack would have the strength to leap up and dismember him or perhaps decapitate him with a swing of his blade. If Zack had had the energy to laugh, he would have. When the soldier saw that Zack could hardly blink, he raised his gun, aimed, and fired. Zack's last thoughts before the bullet made contact were of Aerith.

--

It began to rain. Aerith had been trying to ignore what the planet had told her; she had been busy tending to her flowers. Suddenly, she felt droplets of rain, coming down from the hole in the church ceiling. She stood up cautiously, and looked up towards the gray sky.

He's gone. The planet's voice rang through her ears, and she gasped, clasping her hands together as she stared up at the sky. The planet was crying for her; it was crying for him. Zack Fair, SOLDIER 1st class, was dead. Aerith couldn't deny it – she felt him in the lifestream, through the planet. That boy who had fallen through her church, like a blessing from above, with eyes the color of the sky; the man he became with the death of his friends and the battles he fought – he was gone.

[LDC1121]

getting alot better, you're watching your overuse of details like I said, and I enjoyed reading this one, though I did get a bit confused with the jumping back and forth between present time and flashbacks, that's not you're fault though it's mine. All in all great job babe, keep up the good work!!!

[Keyblade Master Roxas]

Thank you Leah. I know I put to much details. Like I said I love writing, and also putting a lot of details to my storys. But overall I'm so happy that you like it. ^^

I know --'s represent a change in POV, and #'s represent a flashback/memory.

[Roxas]

That was incredible in every way. Maybe next time, add in a slight touch of detail in the environment. Even though we already know what these places look like, it would build on the suspense a lot more.

[Keyblade Master Roxas]

Sure okay I'll try my best to add a touch of detail to the environment. ^_^

[Keyblade Master Roxas]

“You've left me with such a silent world,
Where evenings are calm, but I'm restless
And my breath has become as thin as the wind.

Not even the mighty sky could fill the space you left behind
Not even when it rains.
No, nothing takes your place
Your emptiness too great to fill.”

Chapter 2: Retrospect

As Aerith stood in her tiny church in the slums, gazing at the sky, the rain that had been falling stopped and the clouds blew away to reveal the sun. It felt wrong to Aerith, who felt so torn inside, knowing that Zack was dead. She silently wished that she had told him she had loved him in one of her letters, even though she never knew if he received any of them. It would have made her feel better - at least she thought so - knowing that he may have known it. Or perhaps, just saying it after having kept it in for so long would make her heart hurt less.

“I love you...” she whispered, eyes brimming with unwanted tears again. No...it didn't make her feel any better. In fact, she was sure she felt worse now, having admitted the secret feelings out loud.

In retrospect, she realized that neither of them had ever really made their feelings clear out in the open. Of course, the feelings were all implied – just never spoken, never proven. Although Aerith knew that Zack thought her to be somewhat...well, lacking in subtlety in some things, she was never bold enough to just go out and say it to him. How silly that would have been, to tell him she loved him from the moment she met him!

'Still...how could I have resisted him?' she wondered, with his jet black hair falling over those sky blue eyes – and oh, how she had been flattered when he has asked her if she were an angel! She truly couldn't help but feel some sort of pull to him – it was apparent from the moment she met him. She had tried to play it cool, and just show him out the church doors...but as he was leaving, she had had to ask...

#

“Where are you going?”

“I'm not really sure...” he shrugged, flashing her a boyish smile. She struggled to keep standing as her knees grew a little weak. She scolded herself inwardly for being so weak to his charms, especially since she had just met him!

“I'll take you there,” she stated, then wondering what had possessed her to say that.

“Take me where?” He looked confused at her question, and Aerith's cheeks burned under his gaze.

“I'm not really sure...” she decided to steal his answer, feeling foolish and all at once exhilarated under his stare.

He laughed, “Admit it, you just want to be with me more!” She knew that he was only joking, but she could not deny wanting to be with him. She nodded simply, laughing inwardly at his expression.

“Wha-?” he spluttered, surprised at her honesty – or perhaps it was at her bluntness. She smiled to herself and walked out the church doors.

#

Aerith reflected back on the time at the market. He had been so patient with all of those people, even when they clearly didn't trust him. She could sense his frustration as the people pretended to help him, only to turn around and help the boy get away; but he didn't get mad, he just sighed and went to find help elsewhere. She had been impressed, even more so when he offered selflessly to buy the medicine for the boy when they had finally caught him.

She laughed to herself as she sat by the flowers in the church, remembering the dismayed look on Zack's face when the boy told him that he didn't have enough money. But Zack had just resolved to go out and get the wallet from the monsters who had eaten it.

'He was...no...he had been so brave.' her thoughts turned sad again as she realized once again that he was gone, and no amount of happy memories would bring him back. Tears welled up in her eyes once more, unbidden, and she brushed them away hurriedly. Crying over him wouldn't bring him back, either. She glanced over to the small, somewhat derelict flower wagon that he had built for her. Suddenly, she couldn't hold back the tears and they came pouring down over her cheeks; the floodgates were open, and there was no stopping the tears now. He had promised to build her a new one...but now she felt so selfish in his selflessness. Guilt consumed her, making her sob harder.

'It's a perfectly good wagon...and I had told him I didn't like it. Now, along with my bow, it's the only thing I have left from him...' Suddenly, she wasn't sure that she could continue to sell flowers from her wagon. It would only remind her of him. The planet was quiet; not even a whisper of comfort came from the earth. Without knowing what to do, she sat slumped next to her flowers, crying in eerie silence.

--

Light. The rain was gone, and all Zack could feel was warmth. He opened his eyes, squinting at the sudden brightness of everything. There was something in the distance, coming closer – but he wasn't afraid. Everything here felt...good. Nothing hurt anymore, and there were no more worries. Except...

'What about Aerith? Who will tell her what happened?' he thought, his sudden euphoria shattered. Who would explain to her why he had been gone for four years? He frowned, brows furrowed and lips tight. 'What about Cloud? Who will find him and get him help? He was about as lively as a sack of potatoes when I left him.'

All around him, his warm paradise was flickering in and out of focus; dark clouds were off in the distance, and the air smelled of rain and blood. Still, the object heading toward him got closer and closer, until it slid into focus.

“Angeal?” Zack groaned hoarsely; his body had the strange sensation of being in pain, and then being perfectly fine.

“What do you dream about?” Angeal replied, one eyebrow raised in a questioning, thoughtful look.

“Wha-?” Zack muttered, confused.

“To be a hero, you need to have dreams, and honor.”

“I have honor...I-I have my dreams!” Zack assured eagerly.

“Have all your dreams come true?” Angeal asked, a small smirk playing about his lips.

“...not all of them.”

“Then you aren't finished here.”

“But I'm so tired...” Zack whispered softly, the thought of having to do anything more making his body ache and burn, all his previous worries forgotten.

“You have things to finish. Then you can rest.” Angeal reassured Zack, patting his shoulder fondly. “All in due time.”

“Hey...” Zack looked up, a strange burst of energy flowing through his body, electrifying his nerves and making his appendages tingle. Angeal gave him another questioning look. “Would you say I'm a hero?”

“Hmm...almost...but not quite.” Angeal smiled, and then his figure began to fade, along with the warmth and the light. “See you again someday...” his voice faded, too, and then he was gone.

“Angeal!” Zack cried out, gasping as his body jerked and his eyes opened wide. 'Was it all a dream?' he thought slowly, gazing once more at the sky above him. Sunlight streamed through breaks in the clouds, and it took Zack a moment to realize that he was drenched. It had been raining after all. He sat up cautiously, aware of every muscle in his sore body crying out in protest. Around him, the soil was soaked with a mixture of rain and blood. 'My blood.' Alarmed, Zack looked down at his body, feeling along his chest for the bullet wounds. His sweater vest was torn to bits, blood already drying in large stains – but there were no bullet wounds. His flesh was hot to the touch, and his skin looked and felt new. There were no more wounds, no more mementos of battle. Almost without thought, he raised a hand to his cheek, feeling for the scar left there so long ago.

'It's still there...perhaps because I had no bullet wounds there...the skin only healed where I was shot.' The bigger question now was how he had been healed... “Angeal said...that I wasn't finished here. It wasn't my time. What do I have left to do?” he wondered aloud, his mind still unclear and foggy. Zack scratched his head as he tried to focus – but it was no use. Thoughts slipped through his mind, floating every which way, and no matter how hard he tried, he could not pin them down. It was like trying to find something in the dark.

He tried standing, but his body refused to comply, screaming out in protest; he promptly fell down, once again lying in the mud and blood. Unwillingly, his tired eyes closed heavily and his breathing deepened as he slipped into a deep sleep.

--

Aerith had fallen asleep on the hard wooden floor of the church, without meaning to. She had cried so long, that she had had no energy to pull herself up and drag herself back home. She opened her eyes, but didn't get up. She just stared at the yellow flowers in front of her, reaching up toward the sun that was let in through the hole in the ceiling. Seeing the flowers there, defying the odds and growing in the slums gave her a new resolve. She would keep selling the flowers...she would keep on living, too.

“I won't sell them in the wagon though,” she said sadly to herself. “A basket will have to do.” As for the wagon...it would just have to be put away, out of sight. She had been so absorbed in her thoughts, she was startled when she heard the planet.

-ger!

“Hmm?” Aerith blinked, sitting up slowly.

Danger! Trouble is coming your way soon...it explained, then continued, sounding more frantic. Trouble will come for you, and then we will be at risk...

“What? What's coming for me?” Aerith asked, trying to keep from sounding panicked. “Why will you be at risk?” she demanded. What could make the planet sound so agitated?

Danger! The planet repeated vaguely.

“From who? From what?” she questioned, leaning closer to the flowers, as though she would be able to make sense of the planet if she were closer to it.

He will help. He isn't finished here. He will get help, and they will save us. They will stop him...as soon as he remembers.

Aerith groaned in frustration; although she was used to the planet being so vague, never had she been so exasperated with it. In its apparent frenzy, it couldn't give her a straight answer! Suddenly, the church doors slammed open, and several people in black suits walked in. The one in the lead stopped a few feet away, watching her with somewhat sad brown eyes. But, just as quickly as she had seen it, the sadness disappeared to be replaced with a 'strictly business' look.

“Time to go, Aerith. The President wants to see you personally.” he informed her, holding out a hand. She just stared at his hand, dumbfounded. She knew him – that is to say, she had seen this man before. Not the president, of course. The man standing in front of her. He had followed her for years...she had given her letters for Zack to him.

“Tseng...” she said softly, her eyes welling up again at the thought of Zack. “Did he get any of them?” she asked softly, so the others behind him couldn't hear. Tseng's eyes turned sad once more, and he shook his head. He bent down on one knee so he could speak to her; he wanted to try and make her understand.

“We...the Turks that is...we tried to get to him first...but...” he trailed off uncertainly, unsure if he should continue – unsure if he could face her when he told her the truth. “Shinra got there first,” he finished lamely, looking away from her. She only nodded numbly, blinking back tears, as though she weren't surprised at all by the news.

“So he didn't read them...” she spoke more to herself than to him. Tseng frowned, standing up, and brushing dirt off his pants. Now was not the time to bring her to the President, even if he was desperate to get his hands on her. Tseng felt responsible for things; he had promised to get the letters to Zack and failed. In the end, though, he failed at saving his friend's life. For the moment, he couldn't give a damn about what Shinra wanted. He knew that he would have to do his job sooner or later...but for now, it would be the latter.

He turned and walked away from Aerith back to the group waiting patiently at the doors. “Let's go,” he told them calmly.

“But Tseng -” Rude started, stopping as Tseng raised his hand and cut him off.

“Let's go,” he said simply, glaring at Rude. “Now is not the time.” Rude shook his head, but kept his mouth shut, then turned and followed Reno and Cissnei out. Tseng turned and gave Aerith one last look. His eyes met hers, and he paused, giving her a long, penetrating stare. He couldn't say it out loud – it would cost him his job, possibly his life - but he hoped that she understood.

'Get away...' he thought, trying to convey the message through his eyes. 'Go somewhere far away, where we can't find you.'

Aerith watched as he turned to leave. She wished Zack were here to protect her.

--

'Angeal. Genesis. Sephiroth. All dead. Cissnei. Tseng. Enemies? Cloud. Aerith. Are they okay?' Zacks thoughts were jumbled as he slowly drifted back into consciousness. The pain in his body seemed to have lessened some, but he found he was still very stiff as he tried to stretch.

“Mmmrph!” he grumbled as he tested all his muscles. Fit as a fiddle! Kind of. The moon was high above him, stars twinkling in the vast, ink black sky. The night breeze was soothing in contrast to the sun that had beat down on his sleeping body earlier.

“So nice,” he spoke aloud, smiling. “Ha. Zack Fair, 1, Shinra, 0.” he shouted triumphantly, the realization that he had somehow cheated death dancing around in his mind. He forced his stiff muscles to work as he got up, swinging his arms to get his circulation going. Once he had his blood going again, he began to squat to warm up his legs, grunting in pain as he did so.

“No pain, no gain!” He pushed himself harder, determined to be ready to travel when he was done. Travel...where? He stopped in mid-squat, glancing around. Off in the distance, he could see a city, all lit up, and peaceful.

“Midgar.” That's where he was headed – of course. “Cloud!” Zack yelped, suddenly remembering his friend. He strapped his sword onto his back and began running, each step causing him to wince and grit his teeth. What did he expect though? To come back from the almost-dead and have no pain at all? Nothing was ever that easy. He let out a sigh of relief when he saw Cloud, sitting in the same spot he had left him. Apparently Shinra had been too weary from fighting him to look for Cloud.

“Hey buddy,” Zack grinned, pulling Cloud up by the arm and taking on his weight once more. “We're almost home. Apparently, I have some things to finish.” With that, Zack began to walk back to Midgar, bloodied sword on his back, best friend hanging limply at his side. It was good to have things back to normal.

--

“I have been holding my breath,
For too many nights in a row,
And somewhere on coastlines unknown to me
You paint your dreams,
With reds and blues and greens.
Yea you're painting daffodils growing by the sea,
Without me.

Last night I dreamt you were with me,
Finally I could breathe.”

[LDC1121]

great work once again, perfect balance of details, and I can't wait to read the next chapter

[Keyblade Master Roxas]

Thank You Leah ^_^

Chapter 3: On the Way

“Come on buddy, don't you think you could wake up? You're such a dead weight!” Zack joked to a non responsive Cloud. The ex-SOLDIER could see all of Midgar clearly now, Shinra's building looming ominously over the plates. Zack bit his lip, coming to a stop and hoisting Cloud up into a more comfortable position. He knew that if he were to just stroll into Midgar, Cloud dragging limply alongside, without a care in the world, that Shinra would pounce on them like a giant, crazed cat onto two innocent, weak mice. There was only one solution – sneak into Midgar and bring the help to Cloud.

“You'll be okay, right Cloud?” he muttered, casting his mako blue eyes around for a decent hiding place. He knew he wouldn't be able to sneak very well with Cloud groaning and lolling about. Zack sighed in frustration – every hiding place he could see was too exposed; if a monster was anywhere around, Cloud would be found without a doubt. His 'only solution' seemed to be shattered. 'I'll just have to sneak in with Cloud at night...and I think I know just where to bring him.' He grinned, eyes glowing with renewed hope.

“Let's rest up, Cloud. Wouldn't want to tire ourselves out, would we?” he asked sarcastically, setting Cloud down gently and plopping down with a grunt beside him. “Now, we wait.”

--

Tseng grimaced, rubbing his temples tiredly. He had just gotten a lecture from both the President and Hojo about failing to apprehend Aerith. Now, he was sitting in his office, trying vainly to come up with a way to grant Aerith more time to escape. His orders were to 'seize the damn girl immediately, and no dilly dallying', and Tseng knew that if the Turks didn't do it first, then the new Shinra SOLDIERs would, and they would be much less gentle about it. He exhaled loudly, brows furrowed in frustration. 'Damn it! This job isn't worth it anymore!' With vehemence, he scattered the papers on his desk onto the floor, knocking a small box off in the process. He sighed once again, this time in a worn, tired sort of way and bent down to pick the box up.

“Zack's letters...” he said softly to himself, frowning. Of course, he was curious as to what was written on all of them – what could anyone have to say for eighty-eight letters? But, he would not pry. These letters were between Aerith and Zack – even if he could never read them now. Grief welled up in him again at the thought of his friend's death; he began to pick up his papers, and wracked his brain for a solution for Aerith. It was the least he could do for Zack.

--

“Aerith!” a gasping Zack came bursting through the church doors, grinning wildly at the sight of her.

“Z-zack?” Aerith could only blink, mouth open in wonder and amazement.

“You bet! Here and in the flesh! I promised to remake that wagon, didn't I?” he laughed, raising a brow at her as thought she had forgotten.

“But...you were...gone.” she finished lamely, shaking her head.

“Well, yeah, I was on a mission. But I'm back now, and that's all that matters. But, I'd better hurry before I get called away again!” he exclaimed.

“Zack, you were gone for four years! Where were you?” she demanded, tears welling up in her eyes. Suddenly, everything around her changed. They were no longer in the church, but in a field of flowers with the sky looming above her, dark clouds gathering. “Wh-where are we?” she whispered, feeling very vulnerable under the sky. The clouds seemed so...angry.

“Check it out, Aerith! There are tons of flowers here. Plenty for your wagon!” he grinned cheerfully, then began plucking flowers up from the ground and putting them into a wagon she had never seen before.

“Zack!” she cried out suddenly, eyes wavering uncertainly between him and the sky. “I'm scared...the sky...it feels like it's going to swallow me.”

“I'm kind of busy here,” he stood up, waving a hand at the flowers impatiently. “We need to make a lot of money right? Just forget about the sky.” He went back to the flowers, seemingly oblivious to her. Suddenly, the sky let out a deafening roar of thunder and lightning raked across the sky. Aerith screamed in terror as it opened up to swallow her. Zack waved cheerfully at her, then began to wheel the wagon away. A pair of glowing green eyes appeared in front of her, and a dark chuckle echoed eerily around her.

“Zack!” she cried, tears running down her face. “Help!”

“Zack is gone...” a cold voice replied. “There is no more help for you. Now DIE!” it roared, and Aerith screamed again.

“Aerith! Wake up!” a voice said in her ear. Aerith was aware now of her shoulders being shaken gently, and she opened her eyes. She was surprised to find her cheeks were wet with tears and her mother standing over her. “Aerith!” her mother cried gently, a concerned look on her face. “What were you dreaming? You were shouting dreadfully...it nearly scared me half to death.”

“I...it was just a nightmare...nothing...” Aerith replied dazedly, her heart still pounding from the vivid dream. “Don't worry...” she added, feeling embarrassed now. Her mother didn't look convinced, but respected her daughter's wishes to keep it to herself.

“Are you going to go back to sleep?” her mother asked, gazing out the window. It was dark, but then it was usually dark in Midgar. It took longer for the sun to find its way under the plates, it seemed.

Aerith shook her head, brown locks of hair flying in her face. “I think...I'll go to the church to think,” she said softly, eyes already distant. “I'll be back later,” she promised her mother, rising from her bed.

“No breakfast?” Aerith shook her head again, making her way blindly to the bathroom to scrub the sleep from her face. She couldn't make sense of her dream, but she shuddered at the memory of those dreadful, crazed eyes. She hoped that tending to her flowers would soothe her fears.

[Keyblade Master Roxas]

Chapter 4: AVALANCHE

Despite her dream, she found condolence in her flowers. Everyday they grew, stretching their green necks toward the sun provided by the hole roof. The hole he fell through. He would never ignore her like he had in her nightmare. She knew that he would have saved her from whatever was behind those glowing, green eyes – whatever they belonged to.

She pushed her thoughts roughly aside, concentrating on her flowers again. Flowers – they had no concerns, not really. They only needed water and sunlight to thrive; that much was apparent, seeing as they could even grow in Midgar, polluted and decrepit, all thanks to Shinra. Aerith allowed a small smile to form on her lips. It was early, but perhaps she should head out and sell her flowers. She plucked a few from the ground tenderly and placed them into the basket she had purchased with some of the gil she had earned. The small woven basket was her replacement for the wagon, for now. It would have to do.

Without warning, the doors to the church creaked open. Aerith blinked, squinting her eyes at the sudden light. A dark figure was standing in the light, and her mind went immediately to the nightmare she had. As her eyes adjusted, she sighed softly with relief when she realized that it was Tseng.

“Tseng...what are you doing here?” she asked softly, picking up her basket and dusting off her dress. He didn't answer immediately, but instead slowly moved forward, treading on the wooden floors softly as though at any moment they would break.

“I've just come to...return these.” He finally replied, pulling a small box out of his jacket pocket and handing them to her.

“Wha-” she paused, realizing what the small box contained: her letters to Zack.

“I...since I couldn't get them to Zack, I just assumed that you would like them back.”

“Did you read them?” she asked, gazing at the box sadly.

“No, no. I wouldn't think of intruding on your privacy.” Tseng assured her, arm still outstretched, hand grasping the box. “So here...take them.” Aerith moved as if in slow motion; her breath felt constricted, and the tightness in her lungs and throat only seemed to worsen when she finally took the box in her pale hands.

“Thanks...” she croaked, then cleared her throat, trying to loosen the pressure. “I appreciate you returning them to me.”

“It was the least I could do...” Tseng answered, gazing at her sadly. “Aerith...perhaps it would be best if you got away from this place for a while. Clear your head.”

Aerith smiled at his concern, shaking her head. “I don't think so...I need to stay here and take care of my flowers...besides, the little money I make selling them helps my mother pay the bills.”

“Ah...yes, of course. I see.” He seemed almost disappointed, but it lasted only a moment, and he was all business again. “Very well, I must be going. Lots of work to do.” Tseng gave her a small nod, then turned and strode out of the church, seeming much more confident than when he had entered.

Poor Tseng, Aerith thought, frowning. Zack had been Tseng's friend too, after all. She sighed, then returned her gaze to the box. 89 letters...had I been that hopeful, really? Aerith wondered, opening the box carefully. She sat down on the floor, setting her basket down, and began to rifle through all of the letters.

“There's one missing.” Aerith blinked in surprise, and counted again. There were only 88 letters in the box. Does that mean that Zack had gotten one of her letters after all? By the looks of it, he had gotten the last one...maybe. Maybe he didn't get it at all; perhaps the letter had been misplaced, or had strayed away from the box. She would never know.

--

Tseng returned to his office shortly after visiting Aerith. Perhaps his attempt had been poorly executed, or just too flimsy to work in the first place. He had hoped that Aerith would agree to go on a vacation somewhere, to get away from the memories and Midgar, the dreadful place that it was. But she couldn't, of course. And he knew that the day he would have to turn her in was dangerously close. If only there was some other person to help her...

--

Zack and Cloud had made it into Midgar when night had fallen. Zack hadn't taken any chances though; he used the shadows to hide in, not completely trusting the darkness to conceal them. It was a long trip, with Cloud still unresponsive and unable to walk, but they were in Sector 7 by the time the sunlight had finally begun to creep through the gaps in the plates.

“Time to find a place to stay, Cloud.” Zack grunted as he shifted Cloud's weight. His eyes scanned the dirty buildings surrounding him, searching for a hideout until night came again. A neon sign caught his eye immediately. “7th Heaven...” Zack grunted again, arching a brow curiously. “Sounds familiar.” From what he could see, the building had another level, so though he could tell it was a bar, maybe they would have some place he could room. He started in the direction of the bar, Cloud's head lolling limply on his shoulder, feet dragging across the dirt.

Zack pushed open the bar door open slowly, thankful that the bar was actually open so early in the morning. That, or they just hadn't locked their door. He was hoping for the former.

“Freeze, punk!” a gruff voice shouted, and suddenly there was a large gun in his face.

“Hey, wait!” Zack cried out, raising his free hand in a gesture he hoped said, 'Don't shoot me, I'm innocent!' “I just wanted to see if you guys had a room, that's all! My buddy here is...uh...kinda out of it.” He finished lamely, shrugging.

“There are no rooms in here, so get outta here, SOLDIER scum!”

“Scum? Come on, isn't that a bit harsh?!” Zack shouted, miffed. He could understand though, what with his recent dealings with Shinra...SOLDIER weren't exactly viewed as friendly either, and both he and Cloud had on SOLDIER uniforms. “Look,” Zack began, stepping forward to get a closer look at the angry man.

“Stop! Don't come a step closer or I'll shoot you full of holes.”

Zack sighed, hanging his head. “Actually, I've just gone through something similar, so could we skip it?” he pleaded, grimacing.

“Eh?” the man muttered unintelligibly. Suddenly a door opened, and a light flicked on. A man's voiced asked softly, “What's going on Barret?”

“This SOLDIER here was trying to come in and spy on us!” Barret barked gruffly. Zack got his first good look at the guy: dark skinned, short hair and beard...gun arm. Unusual, but not the strangest he'd seen.

“Why would I want to spy? This is only a bar, after all...” he trailed off, his curiosity intrigued by what Barret had said, but not stupid enough to ask about it and ruin his chances of getting a place to stay for the day.

“Hey!” the other man cried, eyes widening at the sight of Zack. “You're that guy! The one who bought my wood...didn't you build a wagon for Aerith?”

Zack almost dropped Cloud right there. “Is she okay?” he asked, suddenly fearing the worst.

“Yeah, it is you!” the guy exclaimed, grinning. “You gave me the name for this bar! Of course you can stay!”

“Yeah, but-” Zack's question was drowned out by Barret's snort of disapproval, followed by loud footsteps and a slamming door.

“Oh, don't mind Barret,” explained the man gently. “He doesn't trust Shinra or SOLDIER...with good reason.”

“I suppose nobody really does,” Zack muttered absentmindedly, startled when yet another door opened.

“What's going on?” a young woman demanded, dark brown hair flying behind her as she burst through the door. “What's Barret going on...” she suddenly trailed off, eyes glued to the two intruders. Zack grinned, recognizing the young woman.

“Well, Tifa, I hardly expected to see you here. You've grown.” But Tifa only nodded dumbly, her brain still trying to absorb everything. Zack was here...but that wasn't the shocking part. What held all of her attention was the young man next to him, head slumped forward lamely, spiky yellow hair flying in every direction.

“Cloud?!” she finally exclaimed, rushing forward to lift up his head and look at his face. His eyes were open, but dull and unclear. It was as if he couldn't see her. Cloud simply groaned and blinked dully. “What's happened to him?” Tifa demanded angrily, glaring up at Zack.

“...mako poisoning, as far as I can tell.” Zack explained, setting Cloud easily onto an open chair. “Some people's bodies don't accept the mako...it's dangerous.”

“But...who did this to him? Why?” she asked, looking confused. When Zack didn't answer, she knew the answer. “Shinra!” Tifa spat the word out, glaring and curling her fists until the leather gloves on her hands groaned in complaint.

“Yeah...Shinra. But I've brought him to Midgar for help...I'm just not sure where to go for help anymore...Shinra...Shinra betrayed us both.” Zack finished, watching Tifa warily. She looked ready to punch somebody, and he certainly didn't want it to be him, not in his current state.

“We'll find help!” Tifa exclaimed passionately, then gazed softly at Cloud. Apparently they have more than a friendship going on...Zack mused, rubbing his head.

“We have business to attend to first,” Barret's rough voice came from behind them. Zack almost jumped; he hadn't heard Barret return.

“I know...but-” she began, but was interrupted.

“We have to find the Ancient girl before Shinra gets her! They want her to find the Promise Land, but we can't let them!” he cried, grimacing in frustration. “They can't destroy the planet any more than they already have!” Barret proceeded to pound his fist on the bar.

“Ancient girl?” Zack asked, suddenly alarmed and alert. Aerith!

Barret nodded, glancing at Zack warily. “Shinra's President is hoping to get his greedy little hands on her; at least, that's what our sources say.”

“Who are you guys?” Zack demanded. Barret and Tifa exchanged looks.

“I think he can be trusted,” she told him, and he nodded.

“We're AVALANCHE.” Barret finally said, looking Zack straight in the eye. “And who the hell are you?”

“...Zack Fair...Ex-SOLDIER 1st Class!"

After placing Cloud onto a bed, Zack had briefly explained how Shinra had betrayed them and tried to kill him – he didn't go into too many details though, preferring to keep those painful memories behind him, for now. In return, Tifa and Barret had explained about AVALANCHE and Shinra's current situation – not to mention about the “Ancient girl”, who Zack was sure was Aerith. Hadn't Cissnei told him that Aerith was the last Ancient alive, and that the Turks were keeping an eye on her?

Zack wasn't comforted by the thought that the Turks had an eye out for Aerith though. The Turks worked for Shinra; the Turks worked for money.

“I'll help you find her...we can keep her out of danger.” He told both Tifa and Barret firmly, leaving no room for argument.

“And maybe this girl will have a way to cure Cloud.” Tifa put in, glancing over at the unmoving figure on the bed.

“Her name is Aerith.” Zack corrected.

“The Ancient? You know her?” Barret questioned, a surprised look on his face.

“...We were friends.” He replied vaguely. “And its high time I pay her another visit.”

--

Help is close, Aerith. The planet chorused, rousing Aerith from her daze. She had been lost in thought, gazing unseeingly at her letters for Zack.

“What do you mean, Planet?” she asked softly, almost smiling.

We say what we mean. Help is on the way. You will be happy once again. We promise. But be wary.

“...I'll be happy? Who's coming?” she demanded, but the planet had become hushed once more. It held no answers for her today, only question upon question. “Very well then.” Aerith said huffily, gathering her letters and her basket. “To work it is.”

Aerith walked slowly through the park, smiling as she watched the children played. She had already sold a flower or two, but today seemed to be more dead than usual. Little did Aerith know, a few sectors away, Zack and co. were on their way to the church to find her; a few feet away stood a hesitant Turk, unsure if he could follow orders this time. She sold another flower, unaware of sad eyes watching her, unaware of the decision being formed behind them.

“Aerith!” Tseng called to her, stepping out of the shadows he had been lurking in.

“Hmm?” Aerith looked up, surprised to see Tseng again already. “Tseng, what are you doing here?” she asked, smiling softly at him. “Come to buy a flower?”

“No...I'm afraid not.” he replied, one hand placed casually on his gun. “Actually...I'm here on business.”

It appeared that help for Aerith had not come soon enough. Help was on the way...but so was the danger the planet had warned her about.

[Keyblade Master Roxas]

Chapter 5: Deliveries, Planning, and Discoveries

“Business?” Aerith asked uncertainly, a feeling of uneasiness entering the atmosphere. It made her skin tingle and the hair on the back of her neck stand up.

“Come quietly...” Tseng spoke softly, staring at her with troubled eyes.

“No.” Aerith replied firmly, taking two quick steps back from him.

“Be reasonable, Aerith. I don't want to do this by force!” he snapped, suddenly angry.

“Force is the only way you'll get me to go!” With that, Aerith turned and began to run, though she knew in her heart that it was a hopeless effort. Tseng was a Turk; he had a gun, and all she had were flowers; he was trained in the art of killing, and secret rendezvous where people disappeared without a sound. She knew that she didn't have a chance – but she had to try.

Tseng sighed, unwillingly forcing his arm up, holding the gun at eye level. There were no bullets in this gun, only tranquilizer darts. Still, he hadn't wanted it to come to this. It took him only a moment to aim at his target and pull the trigger. The dart found its mark, and Aerith staggered, hand flying to her arm, yanking the dart out. It was too late though; the tranquilizer had already entered her system and was at work. Her body began to feel like lead, and her steps became slow and labored. She fell unsteadily to her knees, her basket of flowers falling into a messy pile on the dirt.

Tseng slowly made his way over to Aerith, a false look of calm upon his face. He leaned down once he reached her, placing one knee on the ground as he placed one arm under her neck and the other in the crook of her knees. Aerith's eyes fluttered as she tried to fight the waves of sleepiness washing over her.

“Why...?” she croaked softly, struggling to stay awake, trying to keep her eyes focused on the man in front of her.

“...I'm sorry.”

Those were the last words she heard as the tranquilizer took over and she fell into a deep sleep. Tseng lifted her limp body up a gentleness surprising of a man who had just shot a flower girl so carelessly. Inside, he felt remorseful, but his duty was to the Turks, and the Turks' duty was to Shinra. With no thoughts to console his troubled mind, he slowly made his way to his helicopter to finally deliver the last Ancient to the President.

--

Zack had wanted to leave for Aerith right away, but he knew that he couldn't very well go charging out into broad daylight where anyone could see him. He knew that no one down in the slums was loyal to Shinra, but he could never be sure that there weren't guards patrolling. Things had changed in the four years he had been gone, and it seemed like Shinra had concentrated its funds on placing guards down into the slums to stop uprising; however, they had done little to repair the state that the slums were in, and as far as Zack was concerned, pushed more people into uprising. The guards did little to bring peace down in Midgar. Instead, they brought fear, and with that fear, anger and frustration; the tension was palpable in the air. So, it was with these thoughts that Zack resigned to stay in the Seventh Heaven bar until night fell once again. He couldn't shake the feeling that something bad was going to happen though, and his bad feelings usually turned out to be right.

He sighed, running his fingers through his hair and began pacing again. “I can't take this!” he cried out in dismay, throwing his arms up in the air.

“Sit down, boy! Damn it, you're making me twitchy!” Barret shouted gruffly, glaring at Zack.

“Sorry...” Zack grumbled in reply, flopping onto the bed and looking sullen. “I just hate waiting.”

“Well, get used to it. Where would we all be if we just rushed into Shinra and tried to blow the place up? We'd be dead, because Shinra would send out their precious SOLDIERS,” Barret sneered, baring his teeth. “And they would rip us all a new one and then kill us!”

“Actually...” Zack began to correct Barret, but paused. He decided against telling Barret that Shinra wouldn't bother sending SOLDIERs to deal with a few measly rebels; now was not the time to make more enemies. “Never mind.” Zack sighed loudly, staring at the ceiling. In the bed next to him, Cloud still lay in the same condition he came in – listless and unresponsive. Tifa had been dabbing his forehead with a cool cloth periodically, but it hadn't appeared to do anything.

“I don't think dragging him around in the hot sun did any good for him.” Tifa told Zack, the corners of her mouth turned down in a frown.

“I did what I could, given our situation.”

“Yeah...well...” Finding that there was no argument to that, Tifa merely returned to Cloud's side, gazing at him with a worried expression. “He will get better, won't he?”

“...some people don't.” Zack didn't want to lie to Tifa, or to get her hopes up. “Some people die from mako poisoning. That's why its so risky. That's why only the strong are given mako.”

“Then why did they give it to Cloud?” Tifa cried, exasperated.

“...Hojo. He did it. He works for Shinra...but I think he did this for his own benefit...some...sick twisted desire to test on us. That's all he ever did...experimented.” Zack's eyes glazed over as he remembered. “We were only subjects to him...and he'd push everyone to their limits. It didn't matter if we died. He only wanted his results.” He sat up suddenly, violently punching the bed. “He was just a sick bastard!”

“So...he tested on you too?” Barret asked, interrupting the conversation.

“I...I don't really want to talk about it.” With that, Zack flopped back on the bed, turning his back to the two of them. “I'm going to try and get some rest. I have a feeling I'm going to need my energy.” Zack closed his eyes, trying to keep the memories of Hojo and his better-than-thou attitude out of his mind. Tifa and Barret exchanged worried expressions, wondering just what kind of experiments were really held on Zack and Cloud, but kept their mouths shut. They both rose from their positions, leaving the room to discuss their worries in private; Cloud continued to lie listlessly, and Zack fell into an uneasy sleep.

--

The air was different. It was cold, and smelled sterile and medicinal. It wasn't slum air, which was always stifling and smelly. Aerith briefly wondered if she were in a hospital. Had Tseng shot her? Was she dying? She blinked blearily, eyes coming into focus slowly. She squinted as the harsh lights reached her eyes, and she groaned. She couldn't hear the planet from here, where ever that was. Aerith tried to sit up, but found that she was being restrained. Any previous thought that the building was a hospital was dashed away. Why would the hospital restrain her? It had finally happened – Shinra had her.

The walls around her came into focus as her eyes adjusted to the bright lights, and she took it all in. Cold steel walls, gray, bland, with machines whirring and blinking all around.

“Ah, you're finally awake,” a cruel voice invaded her ears, and a pale man came into view over her. His dark hair was pulled back into a ponytail, and calculating eyes peered out from behind his glasses. “Yes, you're quite the curious subject. Not quite human, but still I haven't discovered your secrets. Is it true that you can talk to the Planet? And the President...hmmm. Hehehe, he is quite eager to find the promise land...” He seemed to be talking more to himself than to her, so Aerith didn't reply. She knew that she shouldn't judge people without knowing them, but she instinctively didn't like this man.

“Hehehe, yes, you will make a fine subject indeed. And after the President gets the information he needs...well then, then we will see exactly how the Ancient boy reacts to some of my more...questionable experiments...hehehe.” Aerith gulped, wishing fervently that Zack were alive. He would have saved her. Suddenly, a door off to the side opened with a whoosh, and two SOLDIERs walked in, one in black and the other in blue, mako infused eyes focused on Hojo. Aerith could only see glimpses of their expressions, but they didn't seem to want to be there. They both eyed Hojo with distaste, but they said nothing.

“Ah, finally, you two muscle heads have arrived. Yes...you in the blue. What's you're name again?” Hojo demanded, eyes never leaving his clipboard.

“Kunsel, sir!” Kunsel saluted, though grudgingly.

“Mhmm...” Hojo didn't really seem to be paying attention. “And who might this other lug be?”

“Luxiere, reporting for duty, Professor Hojo.” Aerith shivered. Hadn't Zack mentioned a Professor Hojo once? What was it he had told her? Try as she might, she couldn't remember his words, and she silently cursed her forgetfulness.

“Right, well,” Hojo finally glanced up with a superior air towards the two SOLDIERs. “Take the subject to her cell immediately. I have other experiments to conduct right now, and I don't need the subject taking up my precious space! Go, get on with you.” Without waiting to see that his orders were carried out, he returned his thoughts and his shrewd eyes to his clipboard and all the graphs and results they had.

It was only when Luxiere and Kunsel turned toward the 'subject' that Kunsel realized the gravity of the situation. Kunsel had heard enough times from Zack about her, after all. The kid had been in love with Aerith. Luxiere didn't know, of course, and so he strode right on ahead, ready to fulfill his task at hand. Kunsel decided that he would have to do something, for Zack's sake...even though Shinra had said Zack was killed in action, he could hardly believe it. Still, Zack hadn't replied to any of the messages he or Luxiere had sent. But, Kunsel had confidence in Zack. Zack wouldn't be so easy to kill. He hoped.

Luxiere undid the straps restraining Aerith, who immediately struggled to get up and run away. However, Luxiere hadn't been promoted to 1st class for nothing, and he effortlessly restrained her once again, holding her arms firmly behind her back.

“Come now,” Luxiere said soothingly, realizing that the girl in front of him was panicked. Who wouldn't be when faced with two of Shinra's SOLDIERs? “We're only taking you to your cell. Isn't that right, Kunsel?” Luxiere turned toward Kunsel and was surprised to see he looked a bit uneasy.

"What's up, Kunsel?”

"Let's go." Was all he replied, turning and exiting through the door. Luxiere shrugged and gently guided Aerith after him.

Aerith gave up struggling, realizing it was futile. The SOLDIERs were too strong – and unlike Zack, she found them scary. Still, she felt safer with them than with that Professor Hojo. The one in black – Luxiere, if she remembered right – seemed to want to talk to the one in blue – Kunsel. However, Kunsel didn't want to talk, or if he did, he didn't want to talk in front of her. So, they both led her to the cell in silence, exchanging glances. Aerith briefly wondered what her mother would do for money, then the idea was dismissed by a more worrying one. What would her mother do when she found out her adopted daughter was missing? Tears began to form in Aerith's eyes, but she shook her head fiercely to get rid of them. She didn't want to appear weak in front of her captors.

Luxiere and Kunsel finally stopped in front of cell 013, Aerith's new quarters. With a swipe of his access card, Luxiere opened the door and led her inside, letting her arms go free and quickly stepping backward to block the door. Aerith rubbed her sore wrists and glared at Luxiere, her eyes daring him to say something. He kept his mouth shut though, exiting the room, the door locking with a click behind him.

“So what's up, Kunsel?” Luxiere demanded. He and Kunsel had come to work together after Luxiere had been promoted to 1st Class after Zack had disappeared – mostly though, they were brought together because they had both known Zack. They had both been troubled to hear that Zack was killed in action, and they didn't want to believe it, but they had had no word from him in four years. Perhaps Shinra had been telling the truth for once. Kunsel waited until they had made some distance between them and the cell before replying.

“That girl...” Kunsel began, pausing and looking up uncertainly. “We've got to get her out of here.”

“What? Why? You got a crush on her or something, buddy?” Luxiere laughed, elbowing him jokingly.

“No, not me. Zack. That's Zack's girl, Aerith!” Kunsel exclaimed, rubbing his head. “We've gotta get her out for Zack, even if he is dead.”

“...Zack? As in Zack Fair. That's his girl?” Luxiere was lost, shocked at the news.

“What other Zack do you know?”

“Well, none.” Luxiere shrugged sheepishly, then became serious again. “But, what does Shinra want with Aerith? Do you think...what if Zack's not really dead and like...they're using her as bait or something!”

“Hmm...” Kunsel rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “But why would they need to use her as bait? Zack's not a bad guy.” he pointed out, shaking his head. “Besides, it doesn't really matter why she's here. The only thing that matters is getting her out of here. We owe it to Zack...he was our friend, and a good SOLDIER.”

“But how are we supposed to do that? We'd lose our jobs! Shinra obviously wants her for something...and Hojo would be furious. You know how he hates it when he loses his subjects before he gets to experiment on them.”

“It doesn't matter. We'll have to come up with a plan. Or are you just going to let her face some unspeakable horrors because of our jobs?”

“...No.” Luxiere finished meekly, feeling defeated. “I just...I just got promoted though!” he sighed, arms falling at his side.

“There are bigger things at stake here than your promotion.” Kunsel repeated firmly. “I need to go think now. I'll see you later.” With that, Kunsel took off down the hallway, his agitation clear in his posture.

“...” Luxiere watched Kunsel go, his heart down in his boots. He knew that if they freed Aerith, their jobs wouldn't be the only thing at stake. They both knew it. If they released her, their lives would be on the line; they just hadn't wanted to bring it up. “This if for you Zack.” he muttered, eyes toward the ceiling. “I sure hope you appreciate it, wherever you are.”

--

Night had fallen in Midgar, and Zack wide awake, pacing nervously once again. He felt that Barret and Tifa were taking far too long to prepare. All Zack needed was his materia and his Buster Sword, but the others had to prepare with potions and weapons.

“I have plenty of Potions, you know.” Zack had told them. They refused to accept any of his potions though, preferring to waste time gathering their own. Tifa had also been torn between staying with Cloud and going on the mission. She finally decided that she would leave Cloud with Wedge and Biggs, who would also be watching Marlene, Barret's daughter. Zack didn't see the resemblance between them, but he kept his mouth shut.

“Alright, lets get moving!” Barret thundered.

“Like I haven't been ready for the past half hour,” Zack grumbled to himself. Barret either didn't hear or decided to ignore him, because he walked out the door without a word. Tifa gave one last, almost longing glance at Cloud, and then proceeded to follow Barret.

“We'll be back soon, buddy.” Zack said quietly to Cloud, patting him on the shoulder. “Hopefully, we'll have someone who can help you out too.” He grinned, his face lighting up at the thought of Aerith.

“Are you coming or what, boy?” Barret called back loudly.

“Yeah, yeah, I'm coming!” Zack's heard a few well chosen expletives coming from Barret. Zack stepped out into the the night Midgar air, breathing in deeply – and then wishing that he hadn't. The air wasn't exactly...clean. He gagged, making a mental note to taking smaller breaths while he was down in the slums.

“It's Shinra's fault, you know.” Tifa explained, gazing back at him.

“Hmm? What?” Zack quickly stood up straighter, trying to cover the fact that he had just been choking on air.

“The air. It's polluted because of Shinra. We get no fresh air down here either, because of the plates.”

“...yeah. I know.”

“They should be stopped.”

Zack nodded sympathetically. “I know. And we will stop them.”

“We?” Tifa raised an eyebrow, looking momentarily startled and confused.

“Yeah, we. I figure...I figure that since you guys are helping me find Aerith, the least I can do is help you guys. And you guys are trying to stop Shinra, so, I guess I am too.” Zack shrugged, then grinned at her.

“I...well...thanks. I suppose we could use a SOLDIER's help. Aren't you super strong, and such?”

“Ex-SOLDIER,” he corrected her. “And yeah, I'm a little stronger than normal.” he said modestly, looking a little embarrassed.

“Would you two like to grab yourself a cup of coffee or something?” Barret interrupted rudely. “We're kind of doing something important here.”

“Right!” Zack exclaimed, his mind refocusing on the mission.

“Well, where do we go SOLDIER boy?” Barret demanded, waving his gun arm in the air.

“To the church, in sector 5...that's where she took care of the flowers.”

“Flowers in Midgar?” Tifa asked skeptically.

“Yes. Flowers in Midgar.”

xxx

It only took them about forty-five minutes or so to reach the church. Zack's heart sank when he saw that the church was empty.

“She's not here.” Zack sighed dejectedly.

“Well, it is night time and all,” Tifa pointed out. “Maybe she's at home, sleeping.”

“You know...you have a point there.” Zack admitted, suddenly feeling a little better.

“Well...do you know where she lives?”

“Ah...actually, that's a problem. I've never actually been there.” Barret made a noise of frustration.

“Well, what a lot of help you are!” Barret shouted, disgruntled.

“Look, we'll just check the slums marketplace and ask around. They all know Aerith there, and they know me too.” Barret just glared at Zack.

“It's the only idea we have, Barret.” Tifa said reasonably. “It wouldn't hurt to try.”

“Let's just hope there are no guards patrolling this late.” Barret grumbled, unwilling to be consoled by either of them. His plan wasn't going as he had planned it, which of course, defeated the purpose of a plan.

xxx

Zack felt defeated when he left the marketplace. Everyone had been unhelpful for the most part, thought generally quite surprised to see them. There were several comments made, mostly to do with his absence, and a few about how Aerith had fared. From what he had heard, she had continued to sell her flowers, though very recently she had stopped wheeling her wagon around and taken up a basket instead. He could only wonder why she had given up her wagon. Perhaps it had broken, or she didn't really like it. She had said it wasn't cute enough.

That was only the beginning of it. Although she had pretended to be fine, all of the market people could tell that she had been unhappy. Aerith had been unhappy, and it was his fault. His shoulders sagged and he sat glumly on a broken stair. He couldn't even make himself face Tifa or Barret; he didn't want them to see the desperation in his eyes.

“We ought to go, you know.” Tifa said gently, placing a hand on his shoulder. “It'll be daylight soon, and they usually send out guards before the sun rises.”

“Right...” Zack's throat felt tight, the guilt boiling in his stomach.

“There's a shortcut through the park,” Barret explained gruffly, not waiting for the others to get up as he walked toward the park.

The park was the last place Zack wanted to go. It was the place where he and Aerith had shared their first...sort of date together...but he knew they didn't have time to waste, so with a dreadful feeling eating at his heart, he rose and trudged behind Tifa and Barret. He was so focused on being glum and depressed that he almost missed the basket on the ground in the park.

A basket...

“A BASKET!” Zack shouted, dropping to his knees next to it. He set it upright, gazing at the flowers as he picked them up gently. “Aerith's flowers...”

“What's that?” Barret grunted, nearly stepping on one of the flowers.

“Don't step on the flowers!” Zack shouted, waving his arms around. He was reminded of how Aerith had said the same thing to him the first time they met. “They're Aerith's flowers...but why would she leave them out here? It's not like her...”

“There's a tranquilizer dart here on the ground.” Tifa said softly, holding it between two fingers. “Made by Shinra.”

“The Turks must have finally gotten her.” Zack said between gritted teeth, hands clenched into fists.

“Then they've taken her to Shinra.” Barret replied in conclusion.

“We'll go back and make another plan, then.” Tifa finally looked away from the dart, looking to Barret instead, waiting for his response.

“No,” Zack shook his head fiercely, eyes glued to the flowers. “I've already got a plan. We break into Shinra and get her back.”

“Break into Shinra!? Have you lost your damn mind, boy?” Barret shouted, an incredulous look on his face. “Shinra's got so much security, we couldn't even sneeze at Shinra without getting arrested!”

“I'm aware of the security!” Zack snapped tersely. “But we have no other choice. I have to save her! There's not telling what Hojo will do to her now that he has a new 'subject'. Especially since she's the last Ancient.” he added bitterly.

“Well, what's your big plan, hotshot? How do you plan to break into Shinra? It's not like you work there anymore. They'll kill you in a heartbeat.”

“Don't you worry about that,” Zack replied smugly, pulling out his cell phone. “I've got some contacts inside who should be willing to help. You just get everyone ready...”

“Who are you to tell me wh-” Barret began to shout, but was stopped by Tifa.

“Barret! Just...let's do what he says. This will give us a chance to learn more about Shinra's plans...and who else knows better about Shinra's layout than an Ex-SOLDIER?” Barret thought about it for a moment, then nodded in agreement.

Meanwhile, Zack was busy scrolling through his contacts. “Kunsel...Luxiere...I hope you're ready to hear from the dead.” he muttered to himself, busily typing his message to them:

It's Zack. I need your help. Shinra has taken Aerith, and I need to get in to get her out. I can't let Hojo get his hands on her. I can't explain why. I can't explain where I was for the past four years...not yet. If you're willing to help, send me back a message. I'll be waiting.

- Zack

--

Up in Shinra, Luxiere and Kunsel got the same message at the same time. All they could do was stare at each other in amazement. Zack was back from the dead...and what he wanted was unbelievable.

“...Well, we're doing what we planned to anyway.” Kunsel shrugged, looking at Luxiere uncertainly.

“Yeah, but before it didn't involve smuggling in Shinra's most wanted.”

“Shinra told us that he was dead! Besides, I want to hear the full story from Zack, and that won't happen until we get him in and Aerith out.”

“...I'll get to keep my uniform, you think?”

Kunsel groaned and smacked Luxiere on the head lightly. “Come on, let's come up with a plan. Zack's depending on us.” With those last words, Kunsel and Luxiere messaged Zack back.

We're in...