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Description
FFVII
Rescue at the Tower

Genre: Action/ Adventure/ Emotive themes
Setting: 3 years after DoC
Rating: M
Status: WIP
OCs: 25%
Disclaimer: All related Final Fantasy VII names and characters are copyrighted © by Square Enix. However, this story and the OCs are mine. Thank you.

RESCUE AT THE TOWER

Marlene was at the front of the boat next to Ely and seated behind them, Branan pushed the oars gently through the water, as they floated back to the city. Apart from the distant voices echoing from the buildings, the creaking boat was the only sound. Now that they were actually going back into the city to rescue Belia, Marlene felt anxious. She wanted to ask a hundred questions, but she sat, hunched over in silence, not daring to speak a word. Leaning away from Ely's sword, she eyed its sharp edge brushing her skirt, and she wanted to ask if he could shift it.

Before leaving, Branan had looked Ely over, as if gauging his physique and commented, "You will need a weapon." He had than turned to Talana, and she retorted, "Don't even think it. Your idea, your weapon. Besides you've got two." After a good scrutiny of the adolescent, Branan slid out one of his swords from the sheath at his back. "Can you use this?" Without waiting for an answer, he passed the curved blade to Ely.

Ely had clasped it securely, feeling its weight. "For sure."

Branan turned to Marlene. "I don't have anything for you."

Marlene had shaken her head and raised her hands in quick refusal. "No, that's fine." She had sighed with relief at the time, but now as they were about to come into contact with whatever was between them and Belia, she felt like a burden.

Under the shadows of a walkway, the boat ran aground on the damp earth. Ely jumped off, pulling the stern further onto the land. Once they were in sight of a set of stairs, they huddled in the darkness and Branan whispered, "We wait for the sign and than up we go."

Marlene tried to contain her shaking body, certain that her fear was obvious for both of them to sense. Her gaze skirted over Ely and he didn't look afraid at all, his eyes seemed to sparkle with excitement.

"This could go really smoothly or we could all get killed." Brannan studied the two of them. "Are you ready?"

Marlene opened her mouth and her voice was a bare cracking whisper. "I..." she closed it again when she realized she had nothing to add to that.

Ely whispered, "We'll hope for the best than."

Branan nodded, and grinned brightly. "Yeah, it'll be as easy as flying a chocobo."

How is that supposed to be easy? Marlene stared in shock.
Suddenly, clamorous shouts echoed against the stone edifices, reverberating into a furious tirade of bellows and stomping trolls. Cumbersome footfalls rushed along the balconies above and a commotion of incensed people passed within view. Branan bade Marlene and Ely keep low and follow him. On the stair he paused, observing the last of the line of enraged men pass overhead. He whispered, "Let's go." Bending down, his body was shielded by the stone wall of the stairway.

Marlene, almost doubled over, followed closely behind him. Probably too close, as she stepped on his cloak, nearly tripping him up. He gave her a queer look. She stepped back, clutching at her skirt, pulling it up near her knees, fearful she would fly up the step and knock him over. At least Ely was keeping some space behind them. Her stomach burned, and she thought she might throw up.

Branan halted so quickly, she flew into his arm. Giving her another odd look, he held his hand up, and whispered to them, "Wait." Two men, dressed in black and silver uniforms, raced past the shadows of the stairs. Both of them equipped with firearms at the ready. Peering through the stone fluted balustrade, Marlene watched the men meet with another group on a further balcony. Amidst the men, were two four legged lion creatures in leg chains and thick neck cuffs. Their heads drooped and they padded slowly between their armed captors. On seeing their tawny-orange fur and beaded feathers, Marlene gasped loudly. Nanaki.

Branan cast her a keen eye and frowned. "Nothing we can do. We can't save everyone."

"But—" She blinked at him, inanely, knowing she couldn't protest, because he was right, but… it was her friend.

Ely looked past the scene and pointed. "What is that?" Past the building tops the cavern was illuminated with white-blue shards, flying in a circular pattern.

"Knowing Talana, it's Shiva," Branan said, while scanning the open runway before them.

"Is that enough?" Marlene asked.

"It won't be the only one, but," he said over his shoulder, "no dawdling." He got their attention and pointed at a tower not far from them. "That's where we're going." The spire towered over all the other structures and its pure white stone reflected the jade tinge from the cavern walls. Four open tiers with short walls circled the tower. Stairways along the tiers' edges connected the levels. "Khthonia Spire." The walkways were quiet and empty and they travelled them without any interference. The diversion was fulfilling its purpose, so it would seem. They came to a huge circular balcony, the third tier of the tower. "I didn't know it was such a long way," Branan said, as he led them across the flat stones to the stair and up to the last balcony. The fourth tier was as massive as the previous. At its center was the tower. It continued up at least twenty feet, finishing in a point of gold. Four high doors were spaced around the spire, and apparently Belia was within. Branan started, "Pick a door—"

"I think not." From behind the spire came a red scaled woman in high boots and tight black bodice, and swinging a long bladed weapon in her clawed hands.

Marlene gasped at the sight of the half woman, half monster while Branan swore. Ely lifted Branan's sword in readiness. "What is she?"

Branan stood tall and with his hands on his hips, his dangling cloak sleeves made him look larger and more impressive. "It's a nuisance."

The woman appeared to be more reptile than human, as she gracefully sauntered to them. Stopping suddenly, she gave Branan a cocky grin. "I'm a lot more than that."

He reached behind him for his blades, yet only pulled forth the one. "Oh, crud!" Keeping his eyes on the reptilian woman, he cocked his head and said softly, "Ely, you go around and into the tower—"

"What about you?" Ely lunged, ready to pounce away.

"I'll be alright. I've got Marlene." He nodded at Marlene.

Her eyes nervously darted between the two boys, her mouth gaping. "Umm... I'm not sure that's—"

"Okay." Ely winked at Marlene and grinned at Branan. "I'm going in."

"Hey, wait—" Marlene started, but Ely ducked away towards a door in the tower.

The crimson haired woman raised her weapon, preparing to shoot Ely as he raced away. Branan seized the opportunity and rushed her with his sword. The creature cackled, her voice smooth, she responded, "I will enjoy feasting on your blood."

"And you're just another monster I'm going to kill."

Marlene slunk back to the wall at the creature's grisly words and watched Branan go at her with his single sword. The woman's weapon was long and even Marlene could see she had the advantage with it. An intense shimmer of blue covered Branan's body temporarily. The woman's bright red lips contorted in an ugly scowl and Marlene sensed the vehemence that was directed at Branan personally. Branan moved so fast, Marlene wondered if he had cast some spell. With supernatural speed, he blocked all the monster's strikes, despite him having only the one sword. Amid a flurry of blows, a sudden burst of fire erupted from Branan's hand, aimed at the reptile woman. She dodged well, but he continued keeping her on the defensive, not giving her the opportunity of using her blades at full length.

At the presence of another reptilian human approaching, Marlene groaned in dismay. The drop in Branan's spirit at the second creature was palpable to her. Standing ready at the sight of the conflict, the second woman raised a similar long bladed weapon, a smirk of disdain on her face. Branan glimmered with a red tinge and not stopping the flow of his swords' swings, he leveled a demanding look at Marlene. "Now I could really use your help." His voice was jagged with desperate urgency.

Marlene's heart sunk, having the distinct sense if she did not do something, Branan would be killed. She could hear Belia's voice once more crying, Don't let him die... Her presence and her hesitation caught the attention of the creature and it glared her way.

"I can hold them off," Branan yelled, "But the longer we take, more will come."

"But..." she spread her trembling hands out wide, "What do I do?" Her shoulders slumped, wishing she had made a point of asking Denzel about Cetra powers. But she had been in denial and refused to learn anything really worthwhile.

Branan, working extra hard to evade fire bursts from the second creature, shouted at her, "I don't know!"

Marlene could tell he was cross with her. With her! It wasn't her fault she had these powers. She never asked for them, she never wanted them in the first place. Her emotions were a mix of guilt and anger. Anger at herself and now at Branan, but mostly at the Planet. Stamping her foot in a furious and distressed temper, she whined, "Why, Planet, why me? What am I supposed to do?" A cool sensation started in her feet, and racing like a new vein in her body, a tangible pulse of energy filled her. It wasn't hot, but refreshing, and calming. A clear word overcame her thoughts, and she spoke it aloud. "Laqueum." Prickly green vines sprouted out from the stone, and twisted around the second creature's shins, wrapping their way around her legs, halting her abruptly mid step. Marlene's eyes brightened with surprise at what she had caused.

"Thank Gaia!" Branan cried, dodging the fire, shooting out from the bow-like sword. "Although it's not stopping that weapon."

Now that Marlene was a threat, the trapped crimson scaled woman turned her focus and fire bow on her. "I see what you are now."

Marlene shrieked as she dived from the sphere of flames. Not making it in time, she fell in a heap, her leg burnt and skin red and weeping, with half her white skirt singed up to her thigh. Cringing at the agony, she moaned, realizing she wouldn't be able to walk. But she didn't care about that, and said with more force, "Laqueum." More vines popped out from the pavement, holding steadfast the woman-creature fighting Branan. Making the most of her shock and her entrapment, Branan cut her down with a strike to her throat. He dashed to the other and killed her in a similar fashion. With tears of pain, Marlene dragged herself to the small wall.

Branan rushed to her. "Don't worry." His hand glowed blue over her open skin.

Breathing deep, she relaxed her healing leg, and studied Branan's pale skin and fine features. He looked so young, yet wisdom creased his brow. She stammered, "I don't know... how it all works..."

"Yeah," he chuckled under his breath. "So I noticed."

~~ 7 ~~

Ely approached the tower door with sudden trepidation, sensing he must look a lot braver than he actually felt on the inside. It was always easier to be courageous when you thought of helping someone else. So it was best he kept his mind on rescuing Belia.

He pushed one of the tall double doors open and darted in. It occurred to him too late that he should probably attempt some stealth at least. As it was the softly lit corridor was quiet. Branan's sword was an easy weight in his hand and he admired the smooth polished blade. He had always wanted his own sword – a real sword. He had been sword fighting since he knew how to make one from pieces of wood, and he had wanted a real one since then too. But that had never seemed likely, for his parents hated weapons and any conflict of any nature. It was a wonder he was ever permitted to join WRO, although he did nag them for years about it. But he was only allowed to join if they came to Midgar with him. Now he had to have his parents hovering over every move he made. Why couldn't they let him grow up? Why did he have to be the one to bear the burden of an older brother who never came home? How devastated they would be if they knew that all he yearned for was to follow in that one's footsteps.

He padded lightly down the cool marble flooring, Branan's sword clasped firmly in his sweating hand. His wrist was tense from gripping it so tightly. He took a long breath, relax, there's no one here. He only went a few paces before the short corridor branched right and into a curve. Straight ahead was another enormous double door, embellished with gems and elaborate carvings. His heart raced erratically as he grabbed hold of the gold handle, opening the door inches, enough to peek through. He was curious to see what would be behind doors so intricately designed, but more than that, he hoped to find Belia. Shocked, he was unable to drag his eyes from the sight within. It appeared empty except for an altar on a dais in the center of the room. The walls, that went up further than he could see, glowed with the deep green he was now accustomed to seeing, but this tint made him feel nausea. Apart from the grandeur of the room itself, it was the mass of blackness spreading and weaving around the altar that both fascinated and horrified him. The dense cloud spiraled upwards and appeared to be taking shape. It circled and grew larger as he watched. Instinctually he knew he should withdraw, as if the black thing would turn and spy him at any moment.

Clutching his sword, he shut his eyes and reminded himself why he was in the tower. He shut the door, grateful he didn't see Belia in there with that thing. He didn't realize he had held his breath till he breathed again. Now that he wasn't in its view, he wondered what it was, for he had never seen anything like it. Belia had to be in one of the other rooms along the curved corridor. Staunchly pointing the sword in front of him, he snuck through the muted green shades in search of Belia – or some sort of cell where she might be held. The place seemed deserted and he wondered why he had been so worried.

A guttural rumbling grew louder in the corridor.

Ely stopped, and back pressed to the wall, he peered around the curve. His muscles tensed at the presence of the four legged black monster with a long skull like snout. Extending his sword out, Ely prepared for an attack. Before he knew how to approach the thing, it leaped the short distance between them and was coming at him. In the seconds of the monster pouncing upon him with mouth open and sharp claws seeking flesh, Ely wondered if the wisest thing he could do was run. He hesitated too long and all he could manage was the sword coming up to protect his torso. The impact of the monster sent him toppling back. Landing on his backside, Ely held the blade, preventing the creature's hungry mouth from gnawing down on his neck. Its bony snout snapped at his face, so close, he could see its beady eyes under bone brows. Clenching his teeth, he twisted his face away and shoved with all his strength on the sword. The blade cut into its neck and it fell back.

Not being deterred by Ely fighting back, it jumped again. Ely scrabbled to his feet, quick enough to meet its claws with his sword, yet not able to avoid the swipe to his side. Groaning loudly, he ignored his injured ribs and punched up into the elongated jaw. It was enough to jolt its head away, distracting its vision for seconds. Ely jammed his sword hard into its black matted chest cavity, all the way to the gilded hilt. In the instant it struck deep, the monster vanished in a black vapor. Ely's momentum was broken and he stumbled forwards. He didn't waste time thinking about the strange creature as he ran down the passage. Looking at his ribs, he inhaled quickly from the flaming sting. Blood was seeping through his ripped black shirt. "Damn." He skidded to a stop at a door on the left. Heavy locks were spaced down the door. "Oh, that's just great." At least he could make a good guess that Belia was inside. He slammed his open hand on the wood. Maybe if he knocked…

A sharp sound followed; the sound of a small foot kicking the bottom of the door.

Smiling, he scrutinized the door's material. "I hope that's you, Belia." Or he was trying to release someone, or something, else. He gripped the sword with both hands, and stepping back, he lifted it high. Hoping Branan's sword was strong enough – and it wouldn't break – he brought it down with force on the door's locks. The door exploded in a blaze of lightning fire, sending shards of burned busted wood in his face and in all directions. The metal locks fell to the floor smoking with a heavy clunk. Seeing what was left of the door, swaying, he darted back, and the outer edge, fell towards him, leaving a blackened splintered frame.

Belia stood on the other side, gagged, and with her hands and feet bound, and covered in the wood chips and dirty dust. Despite her mouth being covered, she was grinning, and her eyes blinked repeatedly from lashes flecked with ash.

Ely smiled back. "Well, that was a surprise." Again, he admired the sword, comprehending that he was carrying a lot of power. With it he cut her bonds, and than he stripped off her gag. He brushed her off as well as time allowed.

Belia threw her tiny arms around his neck. "You came back."

He cringed at her sudden rough show of affection and shifted from under her embrace.

"I'll make it better." Belia touched his shirt. With small tendrils of light, his skin closed up and he sensed his muscles mending. Too bad she couldn't mend his shirt.

After she finished, he ran his hand down his chest. "Thank you." She squeezed his hand and smiled up at him, her green eyes brimming with gladness. He grasped her hand in return. "Let's get out of here."

~~ 7 ~~

Marlene felt footsteps behind them, and Ely was at her side, crouching down and panting hard. Belia plopped down by Marlene and hugged her shoulders. Marlene smiled with relief at her green eyes, gleaming with joy and she fondled a lock of her white hair, coated with dust and…soot? "What happened to your hair?"

Looking over at Ely, Belia covered a giggle with her hand. Ely blushed, covering his torn shirt. "I'll tell you later. Shouldn't we get out of here?"

"It was my sword, wasn't it?" Branan looked aghast and he studied the sword up and down, making sure it was in one piece. "It's tough, but be careful how you treat it."

Ely gave a short nod and grinned.

Branan eyed the petite Belia up and down. "So, this is she."

She blinked up at him, innocently, a pretty smile creeping onto her lips. Soon she was rocking on her feet, restlessly. Unexpectedly the color drained from her face, and blinking rapidly, she pointed past Branan. "They've come."

Following her gaze, Marlene inhaled sharply at the number of men and creatures crowding onto the tier. Branan groaned and spun on his heels. Ely hefted his borrowed weapon, and pointed it in the direction of the newcomers. "I guess we weren't quick enough." Half hidden behind his long dark fringe, his eyes shone with resolution and Marlene gazed at him, admiring his courage. She didn't think she could feel half as brave as he looked right than.

One man shoved his way through the group. He wore a crimson padded vest over a black shirt, similar to the men surrounding him, except it appeared more extravagant. His long brown-grey scraggly hair fell over the two swords at his back. He stepped forward, away from the glut, yet not coming so close as to be in sword range.

Branan groaned for the second time. "Not him."

The man studied Branan with a malicious scowl. "It had to be you. Trying to save someone." He rolled his head to view Belia. "You'll be too late."

Branan laid a hand on one of his swords, yet didn't draw it. "What's it to you anyway? Why should you care?"

The man also reached for his weapon, his glare intensifying. "I care about purifying this planet of humans."

"Not this again. As usual, you don't know what you're talking about." Branan's other hand, resting by his side, glowed red.

An enraged commotion arose behind the man, of men and creatures wanting to get their hands on Branan and those with him. "No. You do not yet understand." The man in red and black slid out his swords. "But you will." The mob's jeers elevated as their leader lifted his sword high, giving them permission to attack.

Marlene didn't think there were any spells that would help them escape the onslaught of creatures coming at them. While she was attempting to figure out what she could do to help, a number of events took place. From the corner of her eye, she saw a mass of gold, like a moving stream in the air, coming towards them from the right of the tier. Gusts of cool air blew her messed up hair into more tangles. A giant bird came towards her, and she saw Branan leap high and sit astride the creature. In the same moment, she was grasped under her arms with strong talons by another bird and lifted off the ground. Before she knew what was happening, the scene on the tier was behind her and she was hanging in the air. Looking up, she stared at the creature's underbelly of shimmering gold feathers, and assumed Dassiel must be sitting aloft. Not far was another golden bird with Talana on top and Ely hanging uncomfortably beneath. Belia swung her legs under the bird guided by Branan. The teenager's fist punched the air and his victorious bellow echoed through the city. They were riding on chocobos, and ones Marlene had never seen before, golden ones. She exhaled a good deal of anxious pent up breath in relief that they were still together and had made it out alive. But now, where were they going?

Description
FFVII
Rescue at the Tower

Genre: Action/ Adventure/ Emotive themes
Setting: 3 years after DoC
Rating: M
Status: WIP
OCs: 25%
Disclaimer: All related Final Fantasy VII names and characters are copyrighted © by Square Enix. However, this story and the OCs are mine. Thank you.

RESCUE AT THE TOWER

Marlene was at the front of the boat next to Ely and seated behind them, Branan pushed the oars gently through the water, as they floated back to the city. Apart from the distant voices echoing from the buildings, the creaking boat was the only sound. Now that they were actually going back into the city to rescue Belia, Marlene felt anxious. She wanted to ask a hundred questions, but she sat, hunched over in silence, not daring to speak a word. Leaning away from Ely's sword, she eyed its sharp edge brushing her skirt, and she wanted to ask if he could shift it.

Before leaving, Branan had looked Ely over, as if gauging his physique and commented, "You will need a weapon." He had than turned to Talana, and she retorted, "Don't even think it. Your idea, your weapon. Besides you've got two." After a good scrutiny of the adolescent, Branan slid out one of his swords from the sheath at his back. "Can you use this?" Without waiting for an answer, he passed the curved blade to Ely.

Ely had clasped it securely, feeling its weight. "For sure."

Branan turned to Marlene. "I don't have anything for you."

Marlene had shaken her head and raised her hands in quick refusal. "No, that's fine." She had sighed with relief at the time, but now as they were about to come into contact with whatever was between them and Belia, she felt like a burden.

Under the shadows of a walkway, the boat ran aground on the damp earth. Ely jumped off, pulling the stern further onto the land. Once they were in sight of a set of stairs, they huddled in the darkness and Branan whispered, "We wait for the sign and than up we go."

Marlene tried to contain her shaking body, certain that her fear was obvious for both of them to sense. Her gaze skirted over Ely and he didn't look afraid at all, his eyes seemed to sparkle with excitement.

"This could go really smoothly or we could all get killed." Brannan studied the two of them. "Are you ready?"

Marlene opened her mouth and her voice was a bare cracking whisper. "I..." she closed it again when she realized she had nothing to add to that.

Ely whispered, "We'll hope for the best than."

Branan nodded, and grinned brightly. "Yeah, it'll be as easy as flying a chocobo."

How is that supposed to be easy? Marlene stared in shock.
Suddenly, clamorous shouts echoed against the stone edifices, reverberating into a furious tirade of bellows and stomping trolls. Cumbersome footfalls rushed along the balconies above and a commotion of incensed people passed within view. Branan bade Marlene and Ely keep low and follow him. On the stair he paused, observing the last of the line of enraged men pass overhead. He whispered, "Let's go." Bending down, his body was shielded by the stone wall of the stairway.

Marlene, almost doubled over, followed closely behind him. Probably too close, as she stepped on his cloak, nearly tripping him up. He gave her a queer look. She stepped back, clutching at her skirt, pulling it up near her knees, fearful she would fly up the step and knock him over. At least Ely was keeping some space behind them. Her stomach burned, and she thought she might throw up.

Branan halted so quickly, she flew into his arm. Giving her another odd look, he held his hand up, and whispered to them, "Wait." Two men, dressed in black and silver uniforms, raced past the shadows of the stairs. Both of them equipped with firearms at the ready. Peering through the stone fluted balustrade, Marlene watched the men meet with another group on a further balcony. Amidst the men, were two four legged lion creatures in leg chains and thick neck cuffs. Their heads drooped and they padded slowly between their armed captors. On seeing their tawny-orange fur and beaded feathers, Marlene gasped loudly. Nanaki.

Branan cast her a keen eye and frowned. "Nothing we can do. We can't save everyone."

"But—" She blinked at him, inanely, knowing she couldn't protest, because he was right, but… it was her friend.

Ely looked past the scene and pointed. "What is that?" Past the building tops the cavern was illuminated with white-blue shards, flying in a circular pattern.

"Knowing Talana, it's Shiva," Branan said, while scanning the open runway before them.

"Is that enough?" Marlene asked.

"It won't be the only one, but," he said over his shoulder, "no dawdling." He got their attention and pointed at a tower not far from them. "That's where we're going." The spire towered over all the other structures and its pure white stone reflected the jade tinge from the cavern walls. Four open tiers with short walls circled the tower. Stairways along the tiers' edges connected the levels. "Khthonia Spire." The walkways were quiet and empty and they travelled them without any interference. The diversion was fulfilling its purpose, so it would seem. They came to a huge circular balcony, the third tier of the tower. "I didn't know it was such a long way," Branan said, as he led them across the flat stones to the stair and up to the last balcony. The fourth tier was as massive as the previous. At its center was the tower. It continued up at least twenty feet, finishing in a point of gold. Four high doors were spaced around the spire, and apparently Belia was within. Branan started, "Pick a door—"

"I think not." From behind the spire came a red scaled woman in high boots and tight black bodice, and swinging a long bladed weapon in her clawed hands.

Marlene gasped at the sight of the half woman, half monster while Branan swore. Ely lifted Branan's sword in readiness. "What is she?"

Branan stood tall and with his hands on his hips, his dangling cloak sleeves made him look larger and more impressive. "It's a nuisance."

The woman appeared to be more reptile than human, as she gracefully sauntered to them. Stopping suddenly, she gave Branan a cocky grin. "I'm a lot more than that."

He reached behind him for his blades, yet only pulled forth the one. "Oh, crud!" Keeping his eyes on the reptilian woman, he cocked his head and said softly, "Ely, you go around and into the tower—"

"What about you?" Ely lunged, ready to pounce away.

"I'll be alright. I've got Marlene." He nodded at Marlene.

Her eyes nervously darted between the two boys, her mouth gaping. "Umm... I'm not sure that's—"

"Okay." Ely winked at Marlene and grinned at Branan. "I'm going in."

"Hey, wait—" Marlene started, but Ely ducked away towards a door in the tower.

The crimson haired woman raised her weapon, preparing to shoot Ely as he raced away. Branan seized the opportunity and rushed her with his sword. The creature cackled, her voice smooth, she responded, "I will enjoy feasting on your blood."

"And you're just another monster I'm going to kill."

Marlene slunk back to the wall at the creature's grisly words and watched Branan go at her with his single sword. The woman's weapon was long and even Marlene could see she had the advantage with it. An intense shimmer of blue covered Branan's body temporarily. The woman's bright red lips contorted in an ugly scowl and Marlene sensed the vehemence that was directed at Branan personally. Branan moved so fast, Marlene wondered if he had cast some spell. With supernatural speed, he blocked all the monster's strikes, despite him having only the one sword. Amid a flurry of blows, a sudden burst of fire erupted from Branan's hand, aimed at the reptile woman. She dodged well, but he continued keeping her on the defensive, not giving her the opportunity of using her blades at full length.

At the presence of another reptilian human approaching, Marlene groaned in dismay. The drop in Branan's spirit at the second creature was palpable to her. Standing ready at the sight of the conflict, the second woman raised a similar long bladed weapon, a smirk of disdain on her face. Branan glimmered with a red tinge and not stopping the flow of his swords' swings, he leveled a demanding look at Marlene. "Now I could really use your help." His voice was jagged with desperate urgency.

Marlene's heart sunk, having the distinct sense if she did not do something, Branan would be killed. She could hear Belia's voice once more crying, Don't let him die... Her presence and her hesitation caught the attention of the creature and it glared her way.

"I can hold them off," Branan yelled, "But the longer we take, more will come."

"But..." she spread her trembling hands out wide, "What do I do?" Her shoulders slumped, wishing she had made a point of asking Denzel about Cetra powers. But she had been in denial and refused to learn anything really worthwhile.

Branan, working extra hard to evade fire bursts from the second creature, shouted at her, "I don't know!"

Marlene could tell he was cross with her. With her! It wasn't her fault she had these powers. She never asked for them, she never wanted them in the first place. Her emotions were a mix of guilt and anger. Anger at herself and now at Branan, but mostly at the Planet. Stamping her foot in a furious and distressed temper, she whined, "Why, Planet, why me? What am I supposed to do?" A cool sensation started in her feet, and racing like a new vein in her body, a tangible pulse of energy filled her. It wasn't hot, but refreshing, and calming. A clear word overcame her thoughts, and she spoke it aloud. "Laqueum." Prickly green vines sprouted out from the stone, and twisted around the second creature's shins, wrapping their way around her legs, halting her abruptly mid step. Marlene's eyes brightened with surprise at what she had caused.

"Thank Gaia!" Branan cried, dodging the fire, shooting out from the bow-like sword. "Although it's not stopping that weapon."

Now that Marlene was a threat, the trapped crimson scaled woman turned her focus and fire bow on her. "I see what you are now."

Marlene shrieked as she dived from the sphere of flames. Not making it in time, she fell in a heap, her leg burnt and skin red and weeping, with half her white skirt singed up to her thigh. Cringing at the agony, she moaned, realizing she wouldn't be able to walk. But she didn't care about that, and said with more force, "Laqueum." More vines popped out from the pavement, holding steadfast the woman-creature fighting Branan. Making the most of her shock and her entrapment, Branan cut her down with a strike to her throat. He dashed to the other and killed her in a similar fashion. With tears of pain, Marlene dragged herself to the small wall.

Branan rushed to her. "Don't worry." His hand glowed blue over her open skin.

Breathing deep, she relaxed her healing leg, and studied Branan's pale skin and fine features. He looked so young, yet wisdom creased his brow. She stammered, "I don't know... how it all works..."

"Yeah," he chuckled under his breath. "So I noticed."

~~ 7 ~~

Ely approached the tower door with sudden trepidation, sensing he must look a lot braver than he actually felt on the inside. It was always easier to be courageous when you thought of helping someone else. So it was best he kept his mind on rescuing Belia.

He pushed one of the tall double doors open and darted in. It occurred to him too late that he should probably attempt some stealth at least. As it was the softly lit corridor was quiet. Branan's sword was an easy weight in his hand and he admired the smooth polished blade. He had always wanted his own sword – a real sword. He had been sword fighting since he knew how to make one from pieces of wood, and he had wanted a real one since then too. But that had never seemed likely, for his parents hated weapons and any conflict of any nature. It was a wonder he was ever permitted to join WRO, although he did nag them for years about it. But he was only allowed to join if they came to Midgar with him. Now he had to have his parents hovering over every move he made. Why couldn't they let him grow up? Why did he have to be the one to bear the burden of an older brother who never came home? How devastated they would be if they knew that all he yearned for was to follow in that one's footsteps.

He padded lightly down the cool marble flooring, Branan's sword clasped firmly in his sweating hand. His wrist was tense from gripping it so tightly. He took a long breath, relax, there's no one here. He only went a few paces before the short corridor branched right and into a curve. Straight ahead was another enormous double door, embellished with gems and elaborate carvings. His heart raced erratically as he grabbed hold of the gold handle, opening the door inches, enough to peek through. He was curious to see what would be behind doors so intricately designed, but more than that, he hoped to find Belia. Shocked, he was unable to drag his eyes from the sight within. It appeared empty except for an altar on a dais in the center of the room. The walls, that went up further than he could see, glowed with the deep green he was now accustomed to seeing, but this tint made him feel nausea. Apart from the grandeur of the room itself, it was the mass of blackness spreading and weaving around the altar that both fascinated and horrified him. The dense cloud spiraled upwards and appeared to be taking shape. It circled and grew larger as he watched. Instinctually he knew he should withdraw, as if the black thing would turn and spy him at any moment.

Clutching his sword, he shut his eyes and reminded himself why he was in the tower. He shut the door, grateful he didn't see Belia in there with that thing. He didn't realize he had held his breath till he breathed again. Now that he wasn't in its view, he wondered what it was, for he had never seen anything like it. Belia had to be in one of the other rooms along the curved corridor. Staunchly pointing the sword in front of him, he snuck through the muted green shades in search of Belia – or some sort of cell where she might be held. The place seemed deserted and he wondered why he had been so worried.

A guttural rumbling grew louder in the corridor.

Ely stopped, and back pressed to the wall, he peered around the curve. His muscles tensed at the presence of the four legged black monster with a long skull like snout. Extending his sword out, Ely prepared for an attack. Before he knew how to approach the thing, it leaped the short distance between them and was coming at him. In the seconds of the monster pouncing upon him with mouth open and sharp claws seeking flesh, Ely wondered if the wisest thing he could do was run. He hesitated too long and all he could manage was the sword coming up to protect his torso. The impact of the monster sent him toppling back. Landing on his backside, Ely held the blade, preventing the creature's hungry mouth from gnawing down on his neck. Its bony snout snapped at his face, so close, he could see its beady eyes under bone brows. Clenching his teeth, he twisted his face away and shoved with all his strength on the sword. The blade cut into its neck and it fell back.

Not being deterred by Ely fighting back, it jumped again. Ely scrabbled to his feet, quick enough to meet its claws with his sword, yet not able to avoid the swipe to his side. Groaning loudly, he ignored his injured ribs and punched up into the elongated jaw. It was enough to jolt its head away, distracting its vision for seconds. Ely jammed his sword hard into its black matted chest cavity, all the way to the gilded hilt. In the instant it struck deep, the monster vanished in a black vapor. Ely's momentum was broken and he stumbled forwards. He didn't waste time thinking about the strange creature as he ran down the passage. Looking at his ribs, he inhaled quickly from the flaming sting. Blood was seeping through his ripped black shirt. "Damn." He skidded to a stop at a door on the left. Heavy locks were spaced down the door. "Oh, that's just great." At least he could make a good guess that Belia was inside. He slammed his open hand on the wood. Maybe if he knocked…

A sharp sound followed; the sound of a small foot kicking the bottom of the door.

Smiling, he scrutinized the door's material. "I hope that's you, Belia." Or he was trying to release someone, or something, else. He gripped the sword with both hands, and stepping back, he lifted it high. Hoping Branan's sword was strong enough – and it wouldn't break – he brought it down with force on the door's locks. The door exploded in a blaze of lightning fire, sending shards of burned busted wood in his face and in all directions. The metal locks fell to the floor smoking with a heavy clunk. Seeing what was left of the door, swaying, he darted back, and the outer edge, fell towards him, leaving a blackened splintered frame.

Belia stood on the other side, gagged, and with her hands and feet bound, and covered in the wood chips and dirty dust. Despite her mouth being covered, she was grinning, and her eyes blinked repeatedly from lashes flecked with ash.

Ely smiled back. "Well, that was a surprise." Again, he admired the sword, comprehending that he was carrying a lot of power. With it he cut her bonds, and than he stripped off her gag. He brushed her off as well as time allowed.

Belia threw her tiny arms around his neck. "You came back."

He cringed at her sudden rough show of affection and shifted from under her embrace.

"I'll make it better." Belia touched his shirt. With small tendrils of light, his skin closed up and he sensed his muscles mending. Too bad she couldn't mend his shirt.

After she finished, he ran his hand down his chest. "Thank you." She squeezed his hand and smiled up at him, her green eyes brimming with gladness. He grasped her hand in return. "Let's get out of here."

~~ 7 ~~

Marlene felt footsteps behind them, and Ely was at her side, crouching down and panting hard. Belia plopped down by Marlene and hugged her shoulders. Marlene smiled with relief at her green eyes, gleaming with joy and she fondled a lock of her white hair, coated with dust and…soot? "What happened to your hair?"

Looking over at Ely, Belia covered a giggle with her hand. Ely blushed, covering his torn shirt. "I'll tell you later. Shouldn't we get out of here?"

"It was my sword, wasn't it?" Branan looked aghast and he studied the sword up and down, making sure it was in one piece. "It's tough, but be careful how you treat it."

Ely gave a short nod and grinned.

Branan eyed the petite Belia up and down. "So, this is she."

She blinked up at him, innocently, a pretty smile creeping onto her lips. Soon she was rocking on her feet, restlessly. Unexpectedly the color drained from her face, and blinking rapidly, she pointed past Branan. "They've come."

Following her gaze, Marlene inhaled sharply at the number of men and creatures crowding onto the tier. Branan groaned and spun on his heels. Ely hefted his borrowed weapon, and pointed it in the direction of the newcomers. "I guess we weren't quick enough." Half hidden behind his long dark fringe, his eyes shone with resolution and Marlene gazed at him, admiring his courage. She didn't think she could feel half as brave as he looked right than.

One man shoved his way through the group. He wore a crimson padded vest over a black shirt, similar to the men surrounding him, except it appeared more extravagant. His long brown-grey scraggly hair fell over the two swords at his back. He stepped forward, away from the glut, yet not coming so close as to be in sword range.

Branan groaned for the second time. "Not him."

The man studied Branan with a malicious scowl. "It had to be you. Trying to save someone." He rolled his head to view Belia. "You'll be too late."

Branan laid a hand on one of his swords, yet didn't draw it. "What's it to you anyway? Why should you care?"

The man also reached for his weapon, his glare intensifying. "I care about purifying this planet of humans."

"Not this again. As usual, you don't know what you're talking about." Branan's other hand, resting by his side, glowed red.

An enraged commotion arose behind the man, of men and creatures wanting to get their hands on Branan and those with him. "No. You do not yet understand." The man in red and black slid out his swords. "But you will." The mob's jeers elevated as their leader lifted his sword high, giving them permission to attack.

Marlene didn't think there were any spells that would help them escape the onslaught of creatures coming at them. While she was attempting to figure out what she could do to help, a number of events took place. From the corner of her eye, she saw a mass of gold, like a moving stream in the air, coming towards them from the right of the tier. Gusts of cool air blew her messed up hair into more tangles. A giant bird came towards her, and she saw Branan leap high and sit astride the creature. In the same moment, she was grasped under her arms with strong talons by another bird and lifted off the ground. Before she knew what was happening, the scene on the tier was behind her and she was hanging in the air. Looking up, she stared at the creature's underbelly of shimmering gold feathers, and assumed Dassiel must be sitting aloft. Not far was another golden bird with Talana on top and Ely hanging uncomfortably beneath. Belia swung her legs under the bird guided by Branan. The teenager's fist punched the air and his victorious bellow echoed through the city. They were riding on chocobos, and ones Marlene had never seen before, golden ones. She exhaled a good deal of anxious pent up breath in relief that they were still together and had made it out alive. But now, where were they going?