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Description
FFVII
Our One Defense

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.

Our One Defense

Marlene sensed a jolt under her body. She woke with reluctance once she remembered where she was. After flying away from the city, they had arrived at a safe distance to stop and make themselves more comfortable on the chocobos. As the journey continued, Marlene eventually rested her head on Dassiel's soft padded chest, using him as a pillow. His arms, bracing her on either side, had prevented her from falling to the dark chasms beneath them as they flew. The golden birds had finally landed apparently at their destination and they stamped along the outcropping of rock, stretching their legs and necks. She had been exhausted and recalled little about the flight except dim jagged tunnels and empty chambers. She had no idea where she was or whether it was night or day, but at least she felt mildly refreshed. Attempting to sit upright, she moved with aching muscles that she could barely move. Her current position was no longer comfortable, but her body seemed stuck on the downy back of the creature. The golden feathers flickered in waves across the bird's back, under the shadows of the luminous cavern. She cleared her throat before speaking. "I've slept the whole time..."

"I let you rest." Dassiel's voice was brusque, reminding her that she was still in a precarious situation with these strangers. "You will need it."

Somehow that didn't make her feel good at all or inclined to move. Not far, she watched Belia yawn, and reach her arms high from where she had been laying on the chocobo's neck. Ely, behind Talana, looked drowsy as he observed the new surroundings. He had to give Branan back his sword otherwise he would never have been able to hold on.

Dassiel steadied the tramping chocobo and jumped down then gripped her waist and lifted her to the ground. She felt her stomach sink into her legs, weighed down by the sudden drop in gravity. For moments her legs were like leaden stumps.

"Finally!" Branan cried as he leapt off the bird and landed with two feet on the ground.

Belia slid down and her stained skirt scrunched up in an awkward tangle. Was Branan that against touching her, he could not help her down? Marlene wondered what Belia thought of these people, her own people no less, who didn't even want to rescue her.

The child ran to Marlene's side and clasped her hand, and chimed, "That was breathtaking. Did you enjoy it?"

Ely flexed his legs and arms and walked over to them. "I wish I hadn't slept through it." His black shirt had a tear from his shoulder to stomach, yet no wound was visible. It occurred to Marlene that she should ask him how he gained the ripped clothing.

Belia stared at Ely and Marlene with innocent expectancy. Marlene said to him with a tentative giggle, "I'm surprised you didn't fall off."

He leaned into her and replied under his breath, "Yeah, so am I..." Lowering his eyes, he darted a look at Talana.

Talana, out of earshot, was holding the reins of her chocobo and standing by a small opening in the rock, waving them through. "This way."

Dassiel was the first to duck through, leading his bird, followed by Branan, pulling on his. Ely let Marlene and Belia walk past him and he went after with Talana coming behind them all. They entered a narrow tunnel and after some moments of walking on uneven stone they came out on a small ledge. Dassiel and Branan let the golden beasts go and the two men jumped down onto wide flat rocks till they couldn't be seen from above, but Marlene pulled up short and stared with wide-eyed fascination at the chamber. The end of the cavern was indiscernible through dense green foliage and a massive grove of trees that seemed to span as far as she could see. Under an emerald glow coming from the rock ceiling, so far above she only guessed at its existence, were leafy vines tapering down to touch the tops of exotic trees growing amidst moss coated rocks and boulder embankments. A plethora of giant flowers on man-height bushes, swayed in an invisible breeze. She gazed spellbound, breathing deep the sweet organic air mixed with the heady scent of life-stream she had come to recognize during her time underground. Sensing Belia gasp and squeeze her hand, she glanced down to see her also smiling at the unexpected splendor. Even Ely stared, his adolescent face flushed with wonder.

Talana nudged Marlene's arm, forcing her along. "You can look as you walk. We must get further in."

Ely was already hopping down the wide naturally made steps.

Marlene nodded and with Belia half-dragging her, she followed the others to the sandy floor at the bottom of the chamber. They walked single-file between jade and crimson plants that reached high above and their lush green leaves, as large as a man's chest, shaded their path. Giant florescent flowers budded before her eyes, revealing golden stamens within. In the distance was the sound of bubbling water. Marlene peered through the colorful folds of branches longing to see the source, but there was only more color and the gentle movement of a living forest. Sounds echoed against the distant rock walls of the chamber that she could not see, and she extended her hand as she walked, absorbing the glossy texture of dainty white petals.

"You should not touch what you're not familiar with." Talana closed the distance between them, hurrying them up. "It can be dangerous here."

Marlene muttered to herself, "How could something so lovely exist without anyone knowing?"

Belia grasped her arm. "Come on, Marlene, we need to keep up."

An urgent tremor was in the girl's voice, causing Marlene to ask in a hushed whisper, "Do you know this place?"

"I've heard of it." Belia's white locks swept across her back, as she turned her head from side to side, trying to see everything at once.

"This is Ilithyia," Talana, her eyes fixed on the path ahead, informed them with a melancholy lilt to her voice, "Once a sanctuary for Cetras."

"Once?" Marlene couldn't help but notice the rare hint of affection in the older woman's voice.

"Yes." After an awkward pause, she said, "Now, we must journey here with caution."

Marlene waited for more, but Talana remained silent. The underground forest was enough to distract Marlene from the woman's icy demeanor and why she had been brought here in the first place. They soon caught up to the men, who had stopped in a small dip amidst the towering plants and under broad leaves. Marlene made the most of the stop by sitting on a spongy moss covered rock. She wriggled aside, making room for Belia, who climbed up beside her. Ely leaned on another rock by the child.

Talana entered the space and looked to Dassiel with his back to all of them, and she said with impatience, "Are they here?"

Dassiel stared up the slope towards a line of knotted trees. "Branan is waiting."

Marlene searched Branan out and discovered him standing on a lofty distant ledge, half hidden behind the flora. Dassiel turned back to them and from under his sweeping cloak brought forth a bag and rummaged inside. He lifted out a cloth wrapped parcel. Approaching Marlene and Belia, he opened the cloth and said, "You will need some nourishment." He presented them with finger sized pastries and savory cakes.

His offer made Marlene's mouth water and she realized how hungry she was. She took one of each without hesitating and would have taken more, but thought she would at least be polite. Belia, on the other hand, took three, and she gave Dassiel a grateful grin in return.

"How many can we take?" Ely's hand hovered over the food, and he watched Belia, her dust smudged cheeks bulging with the cake.

Dassiel chuckled. "They may look small, but they are made with a great deal of sustenance. Take four if you like."

Marlene bit into her pastry. Whether it was just because she was starving, she didn't know, but it tasted delicious. Inside was a creamy cheese surrounding compact greens. Between mouthfuls she said, "This… is really… good. Did you make these?"

Dassiel nodded with a merry grin lighting his usual expressionless face. "Of course."

"What's in it?" Ely stared into the roll, his eyes questioning the green leaf contents.

"That's a family secret." He took one for himself. "Let's just say, chocobos would go mad for these." He laughed at his own humor.

Marlene was too hungry to care what chocobos would eat, and she took another one. They ate in silence, and Marlene took the opportunity to rest and enjoy the tranquil sounds of the cavern creatures in the distance. The moment would have been more relaxing if Talana were not pacing like a caged beast and staring upwards every few seconds with a scowl on her face.

Marlene gazed at her fine profile and admired her strong frame. She didn't think she had ever met as intimidating a person as this woman before her. "What are we waiting for?"

Talana informed her, "The others."

"There are more of you?" Marlene looked around the crowded jumble of rocks and greenery. Now that she could observe the forest, she noticed how ancient the trees appeared. "Do they live here?"

Dassiel shook his head, his eyes warmed with her query. "Some do, but most of us live as nomads—"

Talana halted abruptly and turned her scowl on her. "We roam the Planet among the humans, leaving no trace of our existence."

"Some also live within the Planet," Dassiel added. "Here is one of those places."

Ely said, "Why?"

"Why?" Talana turned a scathing glare his way and her voice simmered, "Because we are hunted by humans and Harbingers alike."

Ely stood tall and his face heated. "I didn't even know there were Cetras till yesterday and the two I've met are kind and friendly. Why would I even consider hurting them? You on the ot-—" Belia grabbed his arm and shook so hard he lost his balance. Talana drilled him with a fierce glare, daring him to say something.

Dassiel stepped between them and gave Ely a sharp nod. "Every Cetra you meet has lost someone dear to them—"

"I've lost people near to me too," Ely muttered.

Marlene opened her mouth to say how much she had lost, but Talana spoke up and instead of a gruff reply, her voice was maudlin. "It is not the same as death. Imagine that one who loves you, falling to evil and are intent on you becoming like them. When you resist they try to kill you and you are forced to make a decision, your life or theirs…"

Gulping hard, Marlene stared at her with newfound insight and thought about how she would feel if Tifa wanted to hurt her or Barrett. She wouldn't stand a chance if they wanted to kill her.

Belia sat up straight, and her small voice halted the dreary discussion. "I was told," she said, "that Cetras went into hiding and than humans wanted to find them."

"That's correct." Dassiel's mature face creased with respect at the girl's words. "Cetra were scattered over the Planet under a strict oath to keep their identity secret until we became a myth and could no longer be found."

His words stirred distant memories for Marlene. She had assumed Aeris was the last Cetra, and that's what they had told her. She guessed that even Aeris thought she was too. She suddenly had a longing to ask these people if they knew of Aeris and why they didn't help her. But with Talana's harsh unfriendly demeanor, she was not prepared to reveal her friendship with Aeris to them. "I wonder where we are… on the Planet."

Dassiel gave her a puzzled stare. "You do not know?"

Marlene returned his confused look. How could she even begin to know?

"We're underneath Calandria," Belia told her, proudly.

Marlene creased her brow in puzzlement.

"Or better known to you as, The Ancient Forest," Dassiel told them.

"Oh, I know it, but have never been there." Marlene was amazed at the information. There was a world appearing right under her nose and she had been oblivious, just like all humans. She gave a gentle sigh. "Calandria. It's a lovely name."

A faint warble echoed through the forest and movement on the slope caught Marlene's attention. They all looked up to see Branan with a group of people, hooded and dressed in greens and earthy colours similar to the surrounding forest. Three of them branched off and descended over the rocks and roots, while Branan and the others stayed above, looking into the forest. As they neared, the leader of the three removed her hood. Marlene gasped at the sight of her long white hair, so similar to Belia's. Her pale face was lined with many years of life and her eyes were alert despite her age. With an insightful gaze, she observed Marlene, Ely and lastly Belia. The men behind her stood a few steps away and watched the group from under their hoods. The woman's striking green eyes fell back to Marlene and she stepped closer to her. "So this is what Gaia has blessed us with. A human boy, a Cetra child and a young Sibling. All unarmed."

Ely, his arms crossed, replied with impatience, "It's not what, it's who."

His annoyed remark made the woman smile. "A human boy with a strong voice. I see."

"The Sibling was at the City as foretold," Dassiel responded. "The other two were with her."

The woman's eyes crimped with kindness and she said to Dassiel, "As we know, Gaia will have her reasons which oft times we cannot see."

Talana stepped forward and placing her hands on her hips, stated, "The Cetra has been with the Harbingers."

Marlene frowned crossly. "Her name is Belia." Belia gave a short nod to the old woman, and Marlene continued, "And this is Ely and I'm Marlene."

"And I am Althaea-Elcaris." Lowering her head, the elderly woman's mouth made a thin line which Marlene took to be a smile, and her gaze shifted to Talana. "I sense no taint from the child."

"It's only been a few hours," Talana huffed.

Althaea nodded at Belia. "She could be carrying the infection. Until it manifests we are safe."

"We'll watch her." Dassiel and Talana shared a grim expression.

Marlene was alarmed by the underlining connotations and wondered what she could say in her defense when Belia hopped down from the rock and with her hands clutching her waist said in a stern voice, "When I get sick, I'll tell you."

Narrowing her eyes at Belia, Althaea considered her. Belia's long white hair was tangled down her back and curling around her pale face, her green eyes sparkled in her dirty face, and her pretty blue dress was torn and still bloody. The old woman spoke, her voice blunt and almost severe. "You are the child of Baildan and Liliana?"

Belia nodded and glowered back at her.

"That's why I recognized her," Dassiel studied the girl intently as did Talana.

"It explains much," Althaea said. "Perhaps I understand why you are here now."

Marlene and Ely stared down at Belia. Her sour look faded and her sweet disposition had returned. While Marlene was preoccupied with Belia, the old Cetra unexpectedly caught hold of Marlene's chin and stroked her jaw line with her thumb. Transfixed by the sudden and delicate touch, Marlene was unable to move from the hypnotic caress of the woman, lulling her senses to a tranquil daze. She wondered what she was doing to her and if she should make her stop. After struggling against the relaxing motions, she was able to make her mouth work. "What… what do you want with me?"

"You have a strong mind." Althaea withdrew her hand and her face softened, but her eyes bored into hers with purpose. "Marlene, have you heard of White Materia?"

Marlene screwed her face up, recalling the name from years ago, from listening to the adults' conversations. White Materia had to do with Aeris and amongst great devastation, the salvation of the Planet. "I have."

"Have you heard of Jenova?"

The word made her cringe and her stomach back flipped with sudden fear. A vision of Cloud entered her thoughts and all the sadness and trauma he had battled in his life over this… thing.

"I see that it has affected you." Althaea breathed deep and sympathy reflected in her clear eyes. "Jenova, a parasitic alien monster, affects many over the whole Planet indirectly without them being aware of it and it must be stopped."

Ely creased his brow in genuine puzzlement. "What is it?"

Talana growled, "It is our enemy and yours too, if humans were not so ignorant."

Ely's blue eyes smoldered as he scowled her way.

"It's true." Althaea looked to him with understanding. "Jenova is destroying the Planet, and humans are unaware—"

"Why didn't you tell us?" Ely cried.

"That's right!" Marlene jumped off the rock, suddenly feeling feisty at all the accusatory remarks about humans. "We didn't know."

"And who should we tell?" Talana retorted, "Who would believe us?"

"In the past you have destroyed Cetras." Anger creased Althaea's brow for seconds before her face was calm once more.

"But..." Marlene stuttered, "but..." The woman's words were sorely correct. But - "It's different now..." wasn't it? She wanted to believe that somehow things on the Planet had changed.

Althaea deliberated over her for tense moments. "Long ago many Cetras ignored their powers and responsibilities. Over time they lost the privilege of being a Cetra due to their apathy. Humans still carry this trait today."

Marlene stared at her wide-eyed, the revelation leaving her stunned. People like Tifa, Cloud and Barrett and all those who had formed Avalanche could never be accused of being apathetic. "It's not so," she whispered.

Belia spoke up, her petite voice was firm. "Papa said Gaia saved the Cetras by making them humans."

Talana grunted with disdain.

Althaea gave Belia a pensive stare. "There are a small number who hold to this opinion. I'm of the belief they forgot us and moved on with their new lives."

Marlene sensed the anger brooding in the woman's voice. Collectively she was beginning to sense their overall mournful nature. It occurred to her that the Cetras pain ran deep, perhaps going back centuries, perhaps more painful than she could even fathom, or even more terrible than they themselves could see.

Ely turned back to Althaea. "Okay, but what is Jenova exactly?"

Marlene realized that Ely would have no idea what they were talking about.

"Jenova is the mother of the parasitic life forms infesting the Planet, slowly taking over and destroying it and its inhabitants."

Ely blinked at her in shock.

Althaea continued, "Centuries ago we were naïve to its power and we believed in its deception. Now it seeks other ways to rule us. A few years past it even began to infect humans." She frowned at Ely's thoughtful gaze. "You recall the Geostigma?"

"We cured that." Marlene knew in her heart Aeris had something to do with that.

"Yes, a cure from the life-stream. But humans are still vulnerable to Jenova's deception and are seduced by its power." Althaea paused. "It continues on its path to annihilate the Planet by stealing human life force."

One of the hooded men watching the trees turned to the woman. "We haven't much time here."

Althaea nodded. "Jenova is growing like a tumor beneath the surface of the earth, spreading to Cetras and creating hives. We believe it is reforming somewhere on the Planet—"

Talana butted in, "And the White Materia is our best weapon and our only defense."

"Is it like Holy?" Marlene asked, timidly. It was a word she had kept to herself for years, never speaking it aloud.

"You know more than I realized. I begin to understand why Gaia has chosen you. White Materia is rare and the highest form of Life-stream. In fact only a Cetra can find and use this type of materia. This particular White Materia has a different affect to that of Holy, but it is the same materia."

The fact that the woman knew of Holy, was enough for Marlene to assume she would know of Aeris. But why would she be drawn into anything to do with Holy, she dreaded to think, unless… it had something to do with Aeris. "But… why do I have to get this materia?"

"This materia is hidden away in a Jenova hive. Only a Cetra can hear its whispering call –"

"But you're a Cetra..." Marlene's voice was a soft whine, almost pleading.

Althaea stated, "As are you, yet you are not born of our line."

"We believe Gaia is attempting to save the Cetras," Dassiel told her, "By gifting some humans with the abilities of the Cetra. Thereby saving herself."

"Because Cetras are dying?" Marlene asked.

"Not as such," Althaea said, "Cetras are susceptible to Jenova."

"And Siblings are not," Talana snapped. "I would go in a heartbeat, but I am not permitted." She nodded towards Althaea and continued, "You are able to go into the bowels of Jenova and remain unaffected by the taint."

Into her mind flooded memories of Cloud and his inner struggles, predominately with the Jenova that lurked within his body. How little she knew of it when she was younger, it wasn't until she was older and Denzel informed her of Cetras and Jenova that she began to understand what Cloud must have gone through. How foolish her childlike presumptions must have been at the time in the face of such a grave adversity he had to battle within his soul and body. Now she could begin to understand how terrible the taint in his body was. She wished she could talk to Cloud right than, so she could grasp the extremity of this foe. She chewed her bottom lip in anxious thought. She just wished he was here with her. "Jenova is… evil."

"We are aware of this. We have been falling to Jenova for centuries." Talana's anger was palpable and Marlene suddenly comprehended her rage was not solely directed at her, but at the Planet. She was angry at Gaia.

"And that is why we need you," Althaea finished, looking at Marlene with authority.

Belia, still fixed to the spot throughout the discussion, stared up at Althaea, not appearing afraid in the least. "I can go."

"No." Talana stared her down, with a commanding frown. "That's the last thing we need."

Althaea was quiet for moments in contemplation as Talana and Belia faced each other. Finally she said, "The risk is too great. If you are not currently infected, you certainly will be once you return."

"Besides, Jenova can sense a Cetra," Dassiel looked thoughtful. "However, the younger they are, the easier they seem to evade detection."

Belia, her face reddening, pouted at all three of them, one after another.

Ely took it up, his tone was condemning. "But you're all okay with sending Marlene into some place surrounded by these evil things, simply because she won't get infected?"

Dassiel responded, "Jenova should not sense a Sibling, so your task may not be that difficult."

Althaea ignored Ely and set her eyes on Marlene, who was considering her. "The White Materia can save the Planet. If the last of the Cetra are infected how will you know what to do? We need all remaining Cetras."

Marlene bowed her head and stared at the rocky earth beneath her feet. Althaea was right. What would happen if the true Cetras were wiped out? Humans would be controlled and destroyed. She gave Ely a glance, and he was watching her, past his hanging fringe, his pale blue eyes creased with concern. He was also right. Who was she to combat these Jenova beasts or whatever they were? That's what Cloud did. It seemed beyond her capabilities. She knew in her heart what she had to do, but there was one deciding factor. Her voice was weak when she finally spoke up. "Will this White Materia help save my mother?" She stared at the woman in earnest, knowing that somehow she would be aware of Tifa.

"Your mother…" Althaea touched her cheek once more and her eyes shone a vivid emerald. "…is in the hands of Jenova's slaves."

Marlene's eyes shot open with sudden fear, yet her face lit with some hope. "You can see where she is?"

"I can see only darkness. She is fighting, but," Althaea shut her eyes in concentration, and breathed steady, "she is forgetting who she is."

"What…? What does that mean?"

Belia spoke up. "We can save her?"

"Her spirit will be lost if she is not saved," Althaea continued, "You will need the power of the White Materia."

Belia put her arm around Marlene's waist and hugged her. "I will believe."

"You must succeed." Talana drilled her with a piercing glare. "You're our only chance."

Marlene gulped at her fierce expression, suddenly not sure what she was more afraid of. This woman, who could most likely kill her without raising an eye brow or a parasitic alien force.

"I'm going with you." Ely stood with his arms folded against his pushed out chest and he eyed the old woman with a commanding stare. "Someone has to look after her." He gazed at the Cetras, standing around, well armed, and inclined his head towards them. "As long as I can get a weapon."

"That will be arranged." Althaea glanced over her shoulder at the two men waiting impatiently.

"Althaea, is..." Marlene's voice shook with trepidation "...the baby well?"

With worry clearly evident on Althaea's face, she paused as if choosing her words with care. "The infant is still in the folds of… its mother's life force, but, it is in danger." She studied Marlene, Ely and Belia. "Until I saw you, I did not realize how little time we have at our disposal." She raised her voice, speaking for the benefit of all those present and perhaps those who were out of sight. "We have underestimated the deceptive powers of Jenova and now we must work against time."

"How much time do we have?" Ely asked, incredulously.

"Days."

"Days?" Ely gasped. "How can the Planet be destroyed that quickly?"

"This is why humans are so ignorant!" Talana cried.

Althaea raised her hand at her pacing restlessly. "No, the Planet won't be destroyed so quickly, but our ability to do anything to stop it will be greatly reduced, if we have any at all."

"But how?" Marlene cried. It all seemed so unbelievable; she could understand Ely's scorn. If it weren't for Cloud and Tifa and the baby, she would also scoff at the notion. But she knew better.

Dassiel interrupted, "We don't have much time for all this. We have stayed long enough."

"You are right, Dassiel." She looked at Marlene. "Jenova is reforming, using the Black Materia. Only the White Materia can counteract its power."

"And Jenova has the White Materia?" Ely said.

"Yes."

Marlene looked between Belia and Ely, attempting to gather as much courage from them as she could and then generate it within herself. Her shoulders straightened and she gave a resolute nod. "We better get it back than."

Ely grinned at her and Belia nodded with determination.

Description
FFVII
Our One Defense

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.

Our One Defense

Marlene sensed a jolt under her body. She woke with reluctance once she remembered where she was. After flying away from the city, they had arrived at a safe distance to stop and make themselves more comfortable on the chocobos. As the journey continued, Marlene eventually rested her head on Dassiel's soft padded chest, using him as a pillow. His arms, bracing her on either side, had prevented her from falling to the dark chasms beneath them as they flew. The golden birds had finally landed apparently at their destination and they stamped along the outcropping of rock, stretching their legs and necks. She had been exhausted and recalled little about the flight except dim jagged tunnels and empty chambers. She had no idea where she was or whether it was night or day, but at least she felt mildly refreshed. Attempting to sit upright, she moved with aching muscles that she could barely move. Her current position was no longer comfortable, but her body seemed stuck on the downy back of the creature. The golden feathers flickered in waves across the bird's back, under the shadows of the luminous cavern. She cleared her throat before speaking. "I've slept the whole time..."

"I let you rest." Dassiel's voice was brusque, reminding her that she was still in a precarious situation with these strangers. "You will need it."

Somehow that didn't make her feel good at all or inclined to move. Not far, she watched Belia yawn, and reach her arms high from where she had been laying on the chocobo's neck. Ely, behind Talana, looked drowsy as he observed the new surroundings. He had to give Branan back his sword otherwise he would never have been able to hold on.

Dassiel steadied the tramping chocobo and jumped down then gripped her waist and lifted her to the ground. She felt her stomach sink into her legs, weighed down by the sudden drop in gravity. For moments her legs were like leaden stumps.

"Finally!" Branan cried as he leapt off the bird and landed with two feet on the ground.

Belia slid down and her stained skirt scrunched up in an awkward tangle. Was Branan that against touching her, he could not help her down? Marlene wondered what Belia thought of these people, her own people no less, who didn't even want to rescue her.

The child ran to Marlene's side and clasped her hand, and chimed, "That was breathtaking. Did you enjoy it?"

Ely flexed his legs and arms and walked over to them. "I wish I hadn't slept through it." His black shirt had a tear from his shoulder to stomach, yet no wound was visible. It occurred to Marlene that she should ask him how he gained the ripped clothing.

Belia stared at Ely and Marlene with innocent expectancy. Marlene said to him with a tentative giggle, "I'm surprised you didn't fall off."

He leaned into her and replied under his breath, "Yeah, so am I..." Lowering his eyes, he darted a look at Talana.

Talana, out of earshot, was holding the reins of her chocobo and standing by a small opening in the rock, waving them through. "This way."

Dassiel was the first to duck through, leading his bird, followed by Branan, pulling on his. Ely let Marlene and Belia walk past him and he went after with Talana coming behind them all. They entered a narrow tunnel and after some moments of walking on uneven stone they came out on a small ledge. Dassiel and Branan let the golden beasts go and the two men jumped down onto wide flat rocks till they couldn't be seen from above, but Marlene pulled up short and stared with wide-eyed fascination at the chamber. The end of the cavern was indiscernible through dense green foliage and a massive grove of trees that seemed to span as far as she could see. Under an emerald glow coming from the rock ceiling, so far above she only guessed at its existence, were leafy vines tapering down to touch the tops of exotic trees growing amidst moss coated rocks and boulder embankments. A plethora of giant flowers on man-height bushes, swayed in an invisible breeze. She gazed spellbound, breathing deep the sweet organic air mixed with the heady scent of life-stream she had come to recognize during her time underground. Sensing Belia gasp and squeeze her hand, she glanced down to see her also smiling at the unexpected splendor. Even Ely stared, his adolescent face flushed with wonder.

Talana nudged Marlene's arm, forcing her along. "You can look as you walk. We must get further in."

Ely was already hopping down the wide naturally made steps.

Marlene nodded and with Belia half-dragging her, she followed the others to the sandy floor at the bottom of the chamber. They walked single-file between jade and crimson plants that reached high above and their lush green leaves, as large as a man's chest, shaded their path. Giant florescent flowers budded before her eyes, revealing golden stamens within. In the distance was the sound of bubbling water. Marlene peered through the colorful folds of branches longing to see the source, but there was only more color and the gentle movement of a living forest. Sounds echoed against the distant rock walls of the chamber that she could not see, and she extended her hand as she walked, absorbing the glossy texture of dainty white petals.

"You should not touch what you're not familiar with." Talana closed the distance between them, hurrying them up. "It can be dangerous here."

Marlene muttered to herself, "How could something so lovely exist without anyone knowing?"

Belia grasped her arm. "Come on, Marlene, we need to keep up."

An urgent tremor was in the girl's voice, causing Marlene to ask in a hushed whisper, "Do you know this place?"

"I've heard of it." Belia's white locks swept across her back, as she turned her head from side to side, trying to see everything at once.

"This is Ilithyia," Talana, her eyes fixed on the path ahead, informed them with a melancholy lilt to her voice, "Once a sanctuary for Cetras."

"Once?" Marlene couldn't help but notice the rare hint of affection in the older woman's voice.

"Yes." After an awkward pause, she said, "Now, we must journey here with caution."

Marlene waited for more, but Talana remained silent. The underground forest was enough to distract Marlene from the woman's icy demeanor and why she had been brought here in the first place. They soon caught up to the men, who had stopped in a small dip amidst the towering plants and under broad leaves. Marlene made the most of the stop by sitting on a spongy moss covered rock. She wriggled aside, making room for Belia, who climbed up beside her. Ely leaned on another rock by the child.

Talana entered the space and looked to Dassiel with his back to all of them, and she said with impatience, "Are they here?"

Dassiel stared up the slope towards a line of knotted trees. "Branan is waiting."

Marlene searched Branan out and discovered him standing on a lofty distant ledge, half hidden behind the flora. Dassiel turned back to them and from under his sweeping cloak brought forth a bag and rummaged inside. He lifted out a cloth wrapped parcel. Approaching Marlene and Belia, he opened the cloth and said, "You will need some nourishment." He presented them with finger sized pastries and savory cakes.

His offer made Marlene's mouth water and she realized how hungry she was. She took one of each without hesitating and would have taken more, but thought she would at least be polite. Belia, on the other hand, took three, and she gave Dassiel a grateful grin in return.

"How many can we take?" Ely's hand hovered over the food, and he watched Belia, her dust smudged cheeks bulging with the cake.

Dassiel chuckled. "They may look small, but they are made with a great deal of sustenance. Take four if you like."

Marlene bit into her pastry. Whether it was just because she was starving, she didn't know, but it tasted delicious. Inside was a creamy cheese surrounding compact greens. Between mouthfuls she said, "This… is really… good. Did you make these?"

Dassiel nodded with a merry grin lighting his usual expressionless face. "Of course."

"What's in it?" Ely stared into the roll, his eyes questioning the green leaf contents.

"That's a family secret." He took one for himself. "Let's just say, chocobos would go mad for these." He laughed at his own humor.

Marlene was too hungry to care what chocobos would eat, and she took another one. They ate in silence, and Marlene took the opportunity to rest and enjoy the tranquil sounds of the cavern creatures in the distance. The moment would have been more relaxing if Talana were not pacing like a caged beast and staring upwards every few seconds with a scowl on her face.

Marlene gazed at her fine profile and admired her strong frame. She didn't think she had ever met as intimidating a person as this woman before her. "What are we waiting for?"

Talana informed her, "The others."

"There are more of you?" Marlene looked around the crowded jumble of rocks and greenery. Now that she could observe the forest, she noticed how ancient the trees appeared. "Do they live here?"

Dassiel shook his head, his eyes warmed with her query. "Some do, but most of us live as nomads—"

Talana halted abruptly and turned her scowl on her. "We roam the Planet among the humans, leaving no trace of our existence."

"Some also live within the Planet," Dassiel added. "Here is one of those places."

Ely said, "Why?"

"Why?" Talana turned a scathing glare his way and her voice simmered, "Because we are hunted by humans and Harbingers alike."

Ely stood tall and his face heated. "I didn't even know there were Cetras till yesterday and the two I've met are kind and friendly. Why would I even consider hurting them? You on the ot-—" Belia grabbed his arm and shook so hard he lost his balance. Talana drilled him with a fierce glare, daring him to say something.

Dassiel stepped between them and gave Ely a sharp nod. "Every Cetra you meet has lost someone dear to them—"

"I've lost people near to me too," Ely muttered.

Marlene opened her mouth to say how much she had lost, but Talana spoke up and instead of a gruff reply, her voice was maudlin. "It is not the same as death. Imagine that one who loves you, falling to evil and are intent on you becoming like them. When you resist they try to kill you and you are forced to make a decision, your life or theirs…"

Gulping hard, Marlene stared at her with newfound insight and thought about how she would feel if Tifa wanted to hurt her or Barrett. She wouldn't stand a chance if they wanted to kill her.

Belia sat up straight, and her small voice halted the dreary discussion. "I was told," she said, "that Cetras went into hiding and than humans wanted to find them."

"That's correct." Dassiel's mature face creased with respect at the girl's words. "Cetra were scattered over the Planet under a strict oath to keep their identity secret until we became a myth and could no longer be found."

His words stirred distant memories for Marlene. She had assumed Aeris was the last Cetra, and that's what they had told her. She guessed that even Aeris thought she was too. She suddenly had a longing to ask these people if they knew of Aeris and why they didn't help her. But with Talana's harsh unfriendly demeanor, she was not prepared to reveal her friendship with Aeris to them. "I wonder where we are… on the Planet."

Dassiel gave her a puzzled stare. "You do not know?"

Marlene returned his confused look. How could she even begin to know?

"We're underneath Calandria," Belia told her, proudly.

Marlene creased her brow in puzzlement.

"Or better known to you as, The Ancient Forest," Dassiel told them.

"Oh, I know it, but have never been there." Marlene was amazed at the information. There was a world appearing right under her nose and she had been oblivious, just like all humans. She gave a gentle sigh. "Calandria. It's a lovely name."

A faint warble echoed through the forest and movement on the slope caught Marlene's attention. They all looked up to see Branan with a group of people, hooded and dressed in greens and earthy colours similar to the surrounding forest. Three of them branched off and descended over the rocks and roots, while Branan and the others stayed above, looking into the forest. As they neared, the leader of the three removed her hood. Marlene gasped at the sight of her long white hair, so similar to Belia's. Her pale face was lined with many years of life and her eyes were alert despite her age. With an insightful gaze, she observed Marlene, Ely and lastly Belia. The men behind her stood a few steps away and watched the group from under their hoods. The woman's striking green eyes fell back to Marlene and she stepped closer to her. "So this is what Gaia has blessed us with. A human boy, a Cetra child and a young Sibling. All unarmed."

Ely, his arms crossed, replied with impatience, "It's not what, it's who."

His annoyed remark made the woman smile. "A human boy with a strong voice. I see."

"The Sibling was at the City as foretold," Dassiel responded. "The other two were with her."

The woman's eyes crimped with kindness and she said to Dassiel, "As we know, Gaia will have her reasons which oft times we cannot see."

Talana stepped forward and placing her hands on her hips, stated, "The Cetra has been with the Harbingers."

Marlene frowned crossly. "Her name is Belia." Belia gave a short nod to the old woman, and Marlene continued, "And this is Ely and I'm Marlene."

"And I am Althaea-Elcaris." Lowering her head, the elderly woman's mouth made a thin line which Marlene took to be a smile, and her gaze shifted to Talana. "I sense no taint from the child."

"It's only been a few hours," Talana huffed.

Althaea nodded at Belia. "She could be carrying the infection. Until it manifests we are safe."

"We'll watch her." Dassiel and Talana shared a grim expression.

Marlene was alarmed by the underlining connotations and wondered what she could say in her defense when Belia hopped down from the rock and with her hands clutching her waist said in a stern voice, "When I get sick, I'll tell you."

Narrowing her eyes at Belia, Althaea considered her. Belia's long white hair was tangled down her back and curling around her pale face, her green eyes sparkled in her dirty face, and her pretty blue dress was torn and still bloody. The old woman spoke, her voice blunt and almost severe. "You are the child of Baildan and Liliana?"

Belia nodded and glowered back at her.

"That's why I recognized her," Dassiel studied the girl intently as did Talana.

"It explains much," Althaea said. "Perhaps I understand why you are here now."

Marlene and Ely stared down at Belia. Her sour look faded and her sweet disposition had returned. While Marlene was preoccupied with Belia, the old Cetra unexpectedly caught hold of Marlene's chin and stroked her jaw line with her thumb. Transfixed by the sudden and delicate touch, Marlene was unable to move from the hypnotic caress of the woman, lulling her senses to a tranquil daze. She wondered what she was doing to her and if she should make her stop. After struggling against the relaxing motions, she was able to make her mouth work. "What… what do you want with me?"

"You have a strong mind." Althaea withdrew her hand and her face softened, but her eyes bored into hers with purpose. "Marlene, have you heard of White Materia?"

Marlene screwed her face up, recalling the name from years ago, from listening to the adults' conversations. White Materia had to do with Aeris and amongst great devastation, the salvation of the Planet. "I have."

"Have you heard of Jenova?"

The word made her cringe and her stomach back flipped with sudden fear. A vision of Cloud entered her thoughts and all the sadness and trauma he had battled in his life over this… thing.

"I see that it has affected you." Althaea breathed deep and sympathy reflected in her clear eyes. "Jenova, a parasitic alien monster, affects many over the whole Planet indirectly without them being aware of it and it must be stopped."

Ely creased his brow in genuine puzzlement. "What is it?"

Talana growled, "It is our enemy and yours too, if humans were not so ignorant."

Ely's blue eyes smoldered as he scowled her way.

"It's true." Althaea looked to him with understanding. "Jenova is destroying the Planet, and humans are unaware—"

"Why didn't you tell us?" Ely cried.

"That's right!" Marlene jumped off the rock, suddenly feeling feisty at all the accusatory remarks about humans. "We didn't know."

"And who should we tell?" Talana retorted, "Who would believe us?"

"In the past you have destroyed Cetras." Anger creased Althaea's brow for seconds before her face was calm once more.

"But..." Marlene stuttered, "but..." The woman's words were sorely correct. But - "It's different now..." wasn't it? She wanted to believe that somehow things on the Planet had changed.

Althaea deliberated over her for tense moments. "Long ago many Cetras ignored their powers and responsibilities. Over time they lost the privilege of being a Cetra due to their apathy. Humans still carry this trait today."

Marlene stared at her wide-eyed, the revelation leaving her stunned. People like Tifa, Cloud and Barrett and all those who had formed Avalanche could never be accused of being apathetic. "It's not so," she whispered.

Belia spoke up, her petite voice was firm. "Papa said Gaia saved the Cetras by making them humans."

Talana grunted with disdain.

Althaea gave Belia a pensive stare. "There are a small number who hold to this opinion. I'm of the belief they forgot us and moved on with their new lives."

Marlene sensed the anger brooding in the woman's voice. Collectively she was beginning to sense their overall mournful nature. It occurred to her that the Cetras pain ran deep, perhaps going back centuries, perhaps more painful than she could even fathom, or even more terrible than they themselves could see.

Ely turned back to Althaea. "Okay, but what is Jenova exactly?"

Marlene realized that Ely would have no idea what they were talking about.

"Jenova is the mother of the parasitic life forms infesting the Planet, slowly taking over and destroying it and its inhabitants."

Ely blinked at her in shock.

Althaea continued, "Centuries ago we were naïve to its power and we believed in its deception. Now it seeks other ways to rule us. A few years past it even began to infect humans." She frowned at Ely's thoughtful gaze. "You recall the Geostigma?"

"We cured that." Marlene knew in her heart Aeris had something to do with that.

"Yes, a cure from the life-stream. But humans are still vulnerable to Jenova's deception and are seduced by its power." Althaea paused. "It continues on its path to annihilate the Planet by stealing human life force."

One of the hooded men watching the trees turned to the woman. "We haven't much time here."

Althaea nodded. "Jenova is growing like a tumor beneath the surface of the earth, spreading to Cetras and creating hives. We believe it is reforming somewhere on the Planet—"

Talana butted in, "And the White Materia is our best weapon and our only defense."

"Is it like Holy?" Marlene asked, timidly. It was a word she had kept to herself for years, never speaking it aloud.

"You know more than I realized. I begin to understand why Gaia has chosen you. White Materia is rare and the highest form of Life-stream. In fact only a Cetra can find and use this type of materia. This particular White Materia has a different affect to that of Holy, but it is the same materia."

The fact that the woman knew of Holy, was enough for Marlene to assume she would know of Aeris. But why would she be drawn into anything to do with Holy, she dreaded to think, unless… it had something to do with Aeris. "But… why do I have to get this materia?"

"This materia is hidden away in a Jenova hive. Only a Cetra can hear its whispering call –"

"But you're a Cetra..." Marlene's voice was a soft whine, almost pleading.

Althaea stated, "As are you, yet you are not born of our line."

"We believe Gaia is attempting to save the Cetras," Dassiel told her, "By gifting some humans with the abilities of the Cetra. Thereby saving herself."

"Because Cetras are dying?" Marlene asked.

"Not as such," Althaea said, "Cetras are susceptible to Jenova."

"And Siblings are not," Talana snapped. "I would go in a heartbeat, but I am not permitted." She nodded towards Althaea and continued, "You are able to go into the bowels of Jenova and remain unaffected by the taint."

Into her mind flooded memories of Cloud and his inner struggles, predominately with the Jenova that lurked within his body. How little she knew of it when she was younger, it wasn't until she was older and Denzel informed her of Cetras and Jenova that she began to understand what Cloud must have gone through. How foolish her childlike presumptions must have been at the time in the face of such a grave adversity he had to battle within his soul and body. Now she could begin to understand how terrible the taint in his body was. She wished she could talk to Cloud right than, so she could grasp the extremity of this foe. She chewed her bottom lip in anxious thought. She just wished he was here with her. "Jenova is… evil."

"We are aware of this. We have been falling to Jenova for centuries." Talana's anger was palpable and Marlene suddenly comprehended her rage was not solely directed at her, but at the Planet. She was angry at Gaia.

"And that is why we need you," Althaea finished, looking at Marlene with authority.

Belia, still fixed to the spot throughout the discussion, stared up at Althaea, not appearing afraid in the least. "I can go."

"No." Talana stared her down, with a commanding frown. "That's the last thing we need."

Althaea was quiet for moments in contemplation as Talana and Belia faced each other. Finally she said, "The risk is too great. If you are not currently infected, you certainly will be once you return."

"Besides, Jenova can sense a Cetra," Dassiel looked thoughtful. "However, the younger they are, the easier they seem to evade detection."

Belia, her face reddening, pouted at all three of them, one after another.

Ely took it up, his tone was condemning. "But you're all okay with sending Marlene into some place surrounded by these evil things, simply because she won't get infected?"

Dassiel responded, "Jenova should not sense a Sibling, so your task may not be that difficult."

Althaea ignored Ely and set her eyes on Marlene, who was considering her. "The White Materia can save the Planet. If the last of the Cetra are infected how will you know what to do? We need all remaining Cetras."

Marlene bowed her head and stared at the rocky earth beneath her feet. Althaea was right. What would happen if the true Cetras were wiped out? Humans would be controlled and destroyed. She gave Ely a glance, and he was watching her, past his hanging fringe, his pale blue eyes creased with concern. He was also right. Who was she to combat these Jenova beasts or whatever they were? That's what Cloud did. It seemed beyond her capabilities. She knew in her heart what she had to do, but there was one deciding factor. Her voice was weak when she finally spoke up. "Will this White Materia help save my mother?" She stared at the woman in earnest, knowing that somehow she would be aware of Tifa.

"Your mother…" Althaea touched her cheek once more and her eyes shone a vivid emerald. "…is in the hands of Jenova's slaves."

Marlene's eyes shot open with sudden fear, yet her face lit with some hope. "You can see where she is?"

"I can see only darkness. She is fighting, but," Althaea shut her eyes in concentration, and breathed steady, "she is forgetting who she is."

"What…? What does that mean?"

Belia spoke up. "We can save her?"

"Her spirit will be lost if she is not saved," Althaea continued, "You will need the power of the White Materia."

Belia put her arm around Marlene's waist and hugged her. "I will believe."

"You must succeed." Talana drilled her with a piercing glare. "You're our only chance."

Marlene gulped at her fierce expression, suddenly not sure what she was more afraid of. This woman, who could most likely kill her without raising an eye brow or a parasitic alien force.

"I'm going with you." Ely stood with his arms folded against his pushed out chest and he eyed the old woman with a commanding stare. "Someone has to look after her." He gazed at the Cetras, standing around, well armed, and inclined his head towards them. "As long as I can get a weapon."

"That will be arranged." Althaea glanced over her shoulder at the two men waiting impatiently.

"Althaea, is..." Marlene's voice shook with trepidation "...the baby well?"

With worry clearly evident on Althaea's face, she paused as if choosing her words with care. "The infant is still in the folds of… its mother's life force, but, it is in danger." She studied Marlene, Ely and Belia. "Until I saw you, I did not realize how little time we have at our disposal." She raised her voice, speaking for the benefit of all those present and perhaps those who were out of sight. "We have underestimated the deceptive powers of Jenova and now we must work against time."

"How much time do we have?" Ely asked, incredulously.

"Days."

"Days?" Ely gasped. "How can the Planet be destroyed that quickly?"

"This is why humans are so ignorant!" Talana cried.

Althaea raised her hand at her pacing restlessly. "No, the Planet won't be destroyed so quickly, but our ability to do anything to stop it will be greatly reduced, if we have any at all."

"But how?" Marlene cried. It all seemed so unbelievable; she could understand Ely's scorn. If it weren't for Cloud and Tifa and the baby, she would also scoff at the notion. But she knew better.

Dassiel interrupted, "We don't have much time for all this. We have stayed long enough."

"You are right, Dassiel." She looked at Marlene. "Jenova is reforming, using the Black Materia. Only the White Materia can counteract its power."

"And Jenova has the White Materia?" Ely said.

"Yes."

Marlene looked between Belia and Ely, attempting to gather as much courage from them as she could and then generate it within herself. Her shoulders straightened and she gave a resolute nod. "We better get it back than."

Ely grinned at her and Belia nodded with determination.