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Description

FFVII
The Prophecy

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 ALL mine. Thank you.

THE PROPHECY

Marlene was woken from sleep by a dull prod on her arm. Yawning, she stretched, wondering for a few blissful seconds where she was.

Dassiel was crouching by her. “It’s time to go.”

It all came back with dismal clarity. But, at least they had the white materia, and not the ones controlled by Jenova, the Harbingers. She looked around for the others. Belia was squatting nearby, watching her with an apprehensive expression, and Ely was no-where around, nor were the rest of the Cetras. “Has everyone gone?”

“Most of them have started off.” Dassiel stood and took her hand, helping her to her feet. “Ely is waiting outside with Branan and Talana.”

Belia stood along with them.

Marlene turned to her. “Ready?”

She nodded, and an eager twinkle was in her eyes. “Ready.”

Outside the others were waiting. The Oracle had left earlier with the other Cetras, leaving Talana in charge of Marlene, Ely, and Belia. Once more they rode the chocobos to the new destination. As yet, Marlene still didn’t know where that was.

She sat behind Dassiel as they sailed over the treetops of the forest in a warm breeze. She gazed with awe at the passing greenery and didn’t feel as ill as the first time she flew. She might have even enjoyed it more if she weren’t so worried about everything. Dassiel was quiet, leaving her to her rambling thoughts. The landscape changed into brown-red cliffs and mountains, and shadowed gullies that stretched as far she could see. The mountainous range was like a primitive city made from the earth itself. She gasped at the splendid sight. “Cosmo Canyon?”

Dassiel glanced over his shoulder with a fond glint in his eyes. “You know it?”

“Only from maps.” She always wanted to visit although she would have preferred it under better circumstances and with her family.

“Valley of the Fallen Star,” he breathed softly. “Now you will get to see it.”

She frowned at his insightful remark. Was he reading her thoughts again?

They, and the others on chocobos, flew some distance into the majestic canyon. In the deep valleys far below them, was a thick darkness that was more than mere shadows. A malevolent atmosphere bubbled and boiled, like a cauldron of disease, making Marlene heavy and depressed. The evil snaked through the crevices below, and appeared to be spreading. “Is that…?”

“It’s coming, even here.”

She held on all the tighter, and looked towards the towering clifftops and rocky plateaus. If it weren’t for the mountains, they would be in it, the midst of Jenova. Partly concealed in the cliffs where countless dwellings and ramps and stairways, carved into the rocks. Clusters of homes and shops, along with stairs and ladders, extended up and down the mountains and ledges, forming a sort of city. They landed on a large plateau below a massive peak with a huge observatory on top.

With the help of Dassiel, Marlene jumped down. Straight away she was drawn to a modest single flame burning at the center of the plaza. It wavered in the breeze, giving the impression it might go out at any moment. “That’s the candle?” Somehow she expected it to be more glorious.

“This is Mount Lucern.” Dassiel gave a heartfelt sigh. “It is not how it was intended to be. Once long ago, this was the communal meeting ground for all the tribes from across the planet.”

She stared with sad fascination at what was left of a time when Cetras dwelt in peace and safety. All of that was now lost.

People came out from doorways and down the stairs to congregate on the plateau. Some were robed in blue, and purple, others in brown and green garb, which Marlene was used to seeing the Cetras wear. She guessed it must be a type of camouflage. Talana and Branan walked over to Althaea waiting near the flame.

Dassiel laid a hand on Marlene’s shoulder. “Wait here.” He left her to join the other Cetras.

A somber air fell over the Cetras as they gathered around Althaea and spoke together in hushed tones. In the presence of the ancient race, Marlene felt she was intruding in an ages old plight. There was nothing she could really do to help them anyway.

Belia and Ely came up beside her. Ely said, “Guess they won’t be needing us anymore.”

Marlene perceived he was feeling the same way as her. She shook her head. “If they still need me, they’ll need you.” She muttered, “I’ll need you.”

“Hey, you admit it,” he teased with a broad grin.

Blushing, she folded her arms and looked away. “I can’t do any of this…”

Belia said, “They won’t want me.”

“But, I’ll want you.” Marlene put her arm around her shoulders and drew her close.
Branan left the group of Cetras and approached them. A solemn gaze was on his normally carefree face, and his eyes skimmed over the three but stopped on Marlene with a commanding stare. “Althaea wants you to come. Now.”

Marlene touched her chest with a nervous flutter. “What for?”

Ely stepped forward. “Let’s go.”

Branan stopped him with an upraised hand. “No, only Marlene.”

“Me?” Marlene squeaked, “But why?”

Branan grinned at her shocked stare. “Don’t worry, it’s just to talk. They’ll be right here.”

Ely grumbled, “We’ll wait here for you.”

“I’ll see you when I’m finished.” Marlene tried not to look as worried as she felt.

Ely nodded and Belia stood back, staring at the ground, her long white hair veiling her face.

“We won’t be long.” Branan looked up at the observatory. “We’ll be up there.” He leaned into Ely and pushed something into his hand, and muttered in his ear. He turned and walked away.

Marlene tagged slowly behind. She and Branan joined with Althaea, Talana, and a couple of other Cetras. Dassiel and the rest of the Cetras dispersed over the plateau or remained by the candle.

~ 7 ~

Ely stood staring up at the observatory on top of the highest mount above him. The place where he guessed they were taking Marlene. He wondered what they were planning that was so important he couldn’t listen to. Now he felt more left out than ever. His hand in his pocket, he fingered the materia Branan forced on him. He tried sensing what it was, but he couldn’t tell for sure. Branan, cryptic as ever, only said it might come in handy. He guessed he would find out next time he was in a fight.

After some moments, he realized Belia was no longer standing next to him. She must have snuck off. He scanned the plateau. Cetras, armed with swords, bows, and staffs, stood or sat around the flame. Some others were on the higher levels. Belia was not among them. Not that she probably would be, considering they treated her like an outcast. He scratched his head, now concerned with her whereabouts.

Abruptly panic hit him. Where was she? He ran to the stairs and stared down into the oppressive darkness. On a ridge further down, a small figure in blue sat by the rock wall. She pulled her legs up and curled in till she looked like a discarded white and blue ball. He raced down to meet her.

She didn’t move or say a word as he sat cross-legged beside her. “Looks terrible down there.” His senses weren’t anything like Belia’s or Marlene’s, but even he could sense the evil. The forest of miasma probably made him more aware of it.

“It feels yuck.” Her voice was muffled.

“Why do you want to be so close to it?” Ely said.

“I don’t. I wanted to be away from…” Keeping her face buried in her knees, she pointed up, past him to the higher peaks. “…up there.”

He scrunched his lips up, regarding those near the candle. “I get that. But, I think they’re worried about you.”

Belia’s sarcastic laugh was muffled by her skirt. “Don’t lie.” She peaked at him with red rimmed eyes. “I can tell.”

Ely frowned at her sorrowful demeanor. “Guess you can.” He watched her bury her face again. “But, you know I worry.” He added, “That’s no lie.”

She sniffed and raised her head to wipe her eyes. “I know.” Suddenly, she jumped up and walked to the edge of the cliff. Hanging her head over, she gazed down and muttered, “… and that’s why…”

Ely leaped to his feet, his body abruptly pumping with fear. “Not so close.”

“I worry about you and Marlene.” With her back to him, she extended her arms wide, and her hair, blowing across her back, was pure white in the dull sunlight. “Ely, do you know what happened to my parents?”

“No…” But now, he was getting an awful notion of what might have taken place. “I don’t think I want—“

“It’s okay. Everything will be fine. You’ll see. You’ll make it.” Her voice was deadpan and beyond her young years. “That’s what they said.”

He inched closer to her, ready to spring and catch hold of her. “Yes, they were right. You’re here with us.”

“But… am I?” she said, “Maybe I have to say the same—” Her voice was like a mournful breeze as she tiptoed closer to the edge, “—to you, before I…”

Her parents’ fate, and maybe their decision, irritated him. They should never have burdened a child in that way. He cried, “No! You don’t have to do that. As long as you’re alive, there’s hope.”

She stopped and brought her arms to hold herself. “But, you don’t understand. I don’t want to wreck everything… everything I’ve done…”

He came closer, wanting to steady her shaking body. “You’re our friend. Because of you, Marlene and me, are alive. Because of you, we have the materia, which is supposed to save all of us, and the planet.” With stern determination, he said, “You’re not going to go like that. If something happens, it won’t erase what you have done.”

She glanced over her shoulder, her eyes welling with tears, she gave him a beseeching look. “You think... you will remember me?”

“I’d never forget you.” He reached out for her arm, intent on pulling her to safety. “But, if you… fell, I’d never get over it.”

Tears streamed down her face and she sobbed, “I don’t want to hurt you…”

Her ominous statement gave him chills that he chose to ignore. “We’ve come such a long way. We’ll deal with stuff when it happens. Surely a little kid can’t hurt me?” He scoffed playfully, bringing to mind his initial reaction when they first met.

Her eyes bugged out with sudden fear. “I can feel it. He’s coming…” Paleness came over her face, and her hand cupped her mouth as if she was going to throw up. “I don’t think I can hold on…”

“You’re not going to leave us.” Ely pleaded, his hand outstretched, and his hair whipped over his eyes. “Hold on.” But — hold on for what? The words were superficial and painfully empty. What hope would she be holding onto?

Her eyes misted over and her mouth moved, but she remained silent.

~ 7 ~

Marlene and the small group proceeded up stairways and through dwellings within the rocks, to the higher levels. Eventually they entered a doorway in the rock and climbed a ladder up to the highest mountain. They came out onto a small plaza with a house and gardens, and towering of everything was the observatory.

A robed, elderly man, came out and greeted them, and bowing his head to the Oracle, his long grey beard nearly touched the ground. “Finally. You have arrived. We have been waiting.”

Althaea bowed her face and took his proffered hand. “Elder Hargo. I am glad to see you are well. We could not come any sooner. But we are here, and now we must use the star-scape.”

“Yes, come, quickly.” The old man hobbled back towards the door, and despite his words, he moved slowly.

Talana told the two Cetras with them to keep watch outside, and she went in with Althaea and Branan. Marlene hesitated, wishing she could wait outside too.

Althaea called to Talana, “Bring the child.”

Talana gave Marlene a stern look and she waved her into the observatory. “Come.”

Marlene followed her into a room of old dusty furniture, with shelves of books and odd devices. She didn’t have time to look around as Talana ordered her to climb up another ladder after Althaea. Talana followed her, and lastly came Branan. The Elder appeared to be staying behind.

Another furnished room was upstairs. It was dim, but she could see a peculiar contraption on a circular platform in the center of the room. Without any words of explanation, Marlene was ushered onto the platform with the others. Talana pushed some buttons on the waist high contraption. With a flash of white light they started moving upwards into the open dome of the observatory. Strangely, it seemed greater in height and width than what she viewed from the outside.

The space was devoid of light, and an eerie quiet hung in the air. The silence was unnerving and she gripped her arms and whispered, “…so dark…”

“Not for long.” The presence of Branan alongside her was comforting in the peculiar and unfamiliar environment.

“Step back,” Althaea told them.

Marlene and Branan took a few steps back and Talana stood apart from them on the other side.

A small curved dish rose up on a slender pole from the machine at the center of the dias. Althaea placed the white materia on it, and it was a perfect fit for the orb. The materia shimmered and filled the room with a glittering light that danced over the walls and floor.

“Beautiful.” Marlene swirled in awe.

Branan also gazed about in wonder. “You don’t see this every day…”

Talana crossed her arms and eyed them with derision. “This is nothing.”

Althaea’s hand hovered over the orb and spoke words Marlene could not understand. The walls of the observatory disappeared revealing a virtual realistic scene of the universe. Millions of stars and countless planets formed the boundless universe. Althaea spoke, her voice a melodious chant spanning the solar system. The stars and planets fell back and one planet shot into view. Their Planet.

Althaea spoke towards the materia. “Great Mother, I stand before the seed of your presence, seeking your thoughts. Your children have urgent need of your aid.” She knelt with her face towards the Planet and murmured to herself.

Transfixed by the holographic vision of the distant universe and the planet, Marlene whispered, “What is it?”

“Quiet,” Talana ordered. “The Planet will speak.”

Marlene kept her thoughts to herself and watched with fascination the unfolding scene.
“Watch,” Branan nudged her arm.

The Planet slowly spun, allowing them to see blackness gathering at various areas. The patches of Jenova ran into each other, becoming more potent as they increased in size and depth. Dark tendrils bled into the light of the Planet as yet untouched by evil, and even upwards into the atmosphere. The light of the life-stream held it back but was becoming grey with Jenova’s pollution. The Planet boiled and pulsed with the ethereal conflict. Even Marlene sensed the battle in her spirit.

It occurred to her with stark reality, this was going on right now – all around her, and had been growing in intensity for decades. Had Holy done nothing? But she knew that wasn’t the case. It saved them from the meteorite. Would they always be fighting this insidious evil?

The light of the Planet was diminishing and was less than half the area. Marlene gave a horrified gasp at how far reaching the evil of Jenova was. Were they the only ones remaining in the light? Instinctively she knew Tifa was bound in that darkness. Out from the black, a terrible mass of darkness spurt up, like a geyser. Writhing into a sphere of powerful chaotic energy, it halted in the atmosphere above everything. Out from it spewed streams of the plague of Jenova onto the areas of light.

Marlene whispered, “This is bad!”

“No kidding,” Branan whispered in agreement.

Althaea kept on praying, oblivious to their presence.

In the grey area, between light and dark, the life-stream pushed and pulsed, struggling to rise. Eventually it pushed through and escaped the hold of the life-stream to form a chaotic orb.

This caught Talana’s attention and she stepped forward, peering at the scene with astonishment.

The Jenova sphere sitting above the Planet latched onto the newly formed orb, wrapping its tentacles around it. As well, black tendrils from the Jenova mass over the Planet, tried to grab the ball of life-stream.

When it seemed the white orb would be consumed, an insignificant speck fired up into the air. It entered into the weakened orb sinking into the darkness. The tiny light exploded, setting off multiple blasts of dazzling light. The orb expanded with force and rose above the planet. Nearby stars added brilliance to its power. Like an exploding star, its glorious rays flared outwards in all directions.

Abruptly, the scene disappeared and the chamber dimmed to a glimmering radiance from the materia.

Marlene breathed again, realizing she held her breath at the climactic display, despite not really understanding it at all. However, it gave her hope for some reason, but she was puzzled why it had to suddenly disappear without revealing the end. What did it all mean?

The Oracle stood and faced them. Her face was glowing, yet even she had a concerned look.
Talana gave her a knowing nod, and she seemed disappointed. “That’s that then.”

Althaea shared a somber gaze with her. “And so it begins.”

“It really is something,” Branan said in awe. “But, we still don’t know the outcome?”

“But what has begun?” Marlene’s gaze flicked between them all in bewilderment.

Althaea stood before Marlene, and her face was somber. “It is a costly power and demands a weight of spirit essence. Not to worry, I have paid for much of it.”

Talana lowered her gaze to the floor, and even Banan looked dismayed.

Marlene only felt more confused. “And what does it do?”

“It is a new weapon,” Althaea gazed at the resting the materia with a satisfied smile. “Previously the weapons were not suitable for the Planet’s defense. Gaia has called into being a unique buttress.” She stretched her hand towards Marlene and rested it on her shoulder. “I have seen. It can be only you, the Gentle one. No one else.”

“No…” Marlene shook her head, all her dread over the materia was now coming to pass. “I can’t…”

Althaea took her hand in both of hers, and warmth entered Marlene’s body. “To you, it is Celeste. To us, it will be Celestial.”

Marlene stared into her vibrant green eyes, and despite her trepidation, she floated in a strange contentment. Althaea had a way of pouring calm into her thoughts. “…I don’t know how…”

“You will. That is why it must be you.” She placed her hand on her head. “Just like Aeris knew.”

Talana grunted. “Aeris knew too late.”

“We will not be late this time.” Althaea gave her a warning glance.

Marlene stared at the tall auburn haired woman, dumbfounded. “Because Midgar was destroyed?”

“Because she lost her life,” Talana replied with blunt impact, “Jenova hunted her on all sides.”

Marlene stared, speechless, trying to understand what she was really saying.

“It is true,” Althaea added, “But she made the decision. The price was high. She saved many of us by her faithfulness.”

“Did she really have to die?” Marlene’s voice trembled.

Althaea caressed her hair in reassurance. “Some have more power from within the Life-stream, and they continue on, protecting the Planet and its inhabitants from there.”

“In answer to your question, no,” Talana fired out and crossed her arms in response.

“Sounds like a good way to go.” Branan drew his hand through his hair. “Saving the planet…”

Marlene tried to smile, but the whole conversation was making her sad, and more confused about what went on back then.

Suddenly, Althaea’s hand stiffened on Marlene’s head and her eyes met with Talana. “It’s coming. The key - here.”

Talana unfolded her arms and her face reddened with anger. “It’s time.”

“The prophecy is nearly fulfilled.” The Oracle spoke over them with authority, “’Calamity from the stars borders on dominion,
Hybrids pollute life into death,
Last light endures and births the sibling-kind,
Humans and the Ancient Race will unite against the plague.
The key is hidden where the sun does not shine,
Where Light and Dark combine in power divine,
Peace is wield in the hand of the gentle’,”
She said with determination, “You will know what to do.”

Talana gripped her blade. “It’s finally come.”

Althaea grasped her arm and held it down. “You must control your emotions. Do not be enslaved to the past.” She said to Branan, “Get the white materia. It must be given to Marlene.”

Branan fetched the materia from the dish and muttering to himself, he put it back into Marlene’s pouch on her shoulder. Too distressed to worry about it now, Marlene cried, “What is coming?”

Branan curled up his lip. “All I can sense is the enemy.”

“I know.” Talana growled, “He’s come for the materia?”

“I’m not certain,” The oracle stared into a distant spot, “No matter what happens, it will not be as it seems.”

Description

FFVII
The Prophecy

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 ALL mine. Thank you.

THE PROPHECY

Marlene was woken from sleep by a dull prod on her arm. Yawning, she stretched, wondering for a few blissful seconds where she was.

Dassiel was crouching by her. “It’s time to go.”

It all came back with dismal clarity. But, at least they had the white materia, and not the ones controlled by Jenova, the Harbingers. She looked around for the others. Belia was squatting nearby, watching her with an apprehensive expression, and Ely was no-where around, nor were the rest of the Cetras. “Has everyone gone?”

“Most of them have started off.” Dassiel stood and took her hand, helping her to her feet. “Ely is waiting outside with Branan and Talana.”

Belia stood along with them.

Marlene turned to her. “Ready?”

She nodded, and an eager twinkle was in her eyes. “Ready.”

Outside the others were waiting. The Oracle had left earlier with the other Cetras, leaving Talana in charge of Marlene, Ely, and Belia. Once more they rode the chocobos to the new destination. As yet, Marlene still didn’t know where that was.

She sat behind Dassiel as they sailed over the treetops of the forest in a warm breeze. She gazed with awe at the passing greenery and didn’t feel as ill as the first time she flew. She might have even enjoyed it more if she weren’t so worried about everything. Dassiel was quiet, leaving her to her rambling thoughts. The landscape changed into brown-red cliffs and mountains, and shadowed gullies that stretched as far she could see. The mountainous range was like a primitive city made from the earth itself. She gasped at the splendid sight. “Cosmo Canyon?”

Dassiel glanced over his shoulder with a fond glint in his eyes. “You know it?”

“Only from maps.” She always wanted to visit although she would have preferred it under better circumstances and with her family.

“Valley of the Fallen Star,” he breathed softly. “Now you will get to see it.”

She frowned at his insightful remark. Was he reading her thoughts again?

They, and the others on chocobos, flew some distance into the majestic canyon. In the deep valleys far below them, was a thick darkness that was more than mere shadows. A malevolent atmosphere bubbled and boiled, like a cauldron of disease, making Marlene heavy and depressed. The evil snaked through the crevices below, and appeared to be spreading. “Is that…?”

“It’s coming, even here.”

She held on all the tighter, and looked towards the towering clifftops and rocky plateaus. If it weren’t for the mountains, they would be in it, the midst of Jenova. Partly concealed in the cliffs where countless dwellings and ramps and stairways, carved into the rocks. Clusters of homes and shops, along with stairs and ladders, extended up and down the mountains and ledges, forming a sort of city. They landed on a large plateau below a massive peak with a huge observatory on top.

With the help of Dassiel, Marlene jumped down. Straight away she was drawn to a modest single flame burning at the center of the plaza. It wavered in the breeze, giving the impression it might go out at any moment. “That’s the candle?” Somehow she expected it to be more glorious.

“This is Mount Lucern.” Dassiel gave a heartfelt sigh. “It is not how it was intended to be. Once long ago, this was the communal meeting ground for all the tribes from across the planet.”

She stared with sad fascination at what was left of a time when Cetras dwelt in peace and safety. All of that was now lost.

People came out from doorways and down the stairs to congregate on the plateau. Some were robed in blue, and purple, others in brown and green garb, which Marlene was used to seeing the Cetras wear. She guessed it must be a type of camouflage. Talana and Branan walked over to Althaea waiting near the flame.

Dassiel laid a hand on Marlene’s shoulder. “Wait here.” He left her to join the other Cetras.

A somber air fell over the Cetras as they gathered around Althaea and spoke together in hushed tones. In the presence of the ancient race, Marlene felt she was intruding in an ages old plight. There was nothing she could really do to help them anyway.

Belia and Ely came up beside her. Ely said, “Guess they won’t be needing us anymore.”

Marlene perceived he was feeling the same way as her. She shook her head. “If they still need me, they’ll need you.” She muttered, “I’ll need you.”

“Hey, you admit it,” he teased with a broad grin.

Blushing, she folded her arms and looked away. “I can’t do any of this…”

Belia said, “They won’t want me.”

“But, I’ll want you.” Marlene put her arm around her shoulders and drew her close.
Branan left the group of Cetras and approached them. A solemn gaze was on his normally carefree face, and his eyes skimmed over the three but stopped on Marlene with a commanding stare. “Althaea wants you to come. Now.”

Marlene touched her chest with a nervous flutter. “What for?”

Ely stepped forward. “Let’s go.”

Branan stopped him with an upraised hand. “No, only Marlene.”

“Me?” Marlene squeaked, “But why?”

Branan grinned at her shocked stare. “Don’t worry, it’s just to talk. They’ll be right here.”

Ely grumbled, “We’ll wait here for you.”

“I’ll see you when I’m finished.” Marlene tried not to look as worried as she felt.

Ely nodded and Belia stood back, staring at the ground, her long white hair veiling her face.

“We won’t be long.” Branan looked up at the observatory. “We’ll be up there.” He leaned into Ely and pushed something into his hand, and muttered in his ear. He turned and walked away.

Marlene tagged slowly behind. She and Branan joined with Althaea, Talana, and a couple of other Cetras. Dassiel and the rest of the Cetras dispersed over the plateau or remained by the candle.

~ 7 ~

Ely stood staring up at the observatory on top of the highest mount above him. The place where he guessed they were taking Marlene. He wondered what they were planning that was so important he couldn’t listen to. Now he felt more left out than ever. His hand in his pocket, he fingered the materia Branan forced on him. He tried sensing what it was, but he couldn’t tell for sure. Branan, cryptic as ever, only said it might come in handy. He guessed he would find out next time he was in a fight.

After some moments, he realized Belia was no longer standing next to him. She must have snuck off. He scanned the plateau. Cetras, armed with swords, bows, and staffs, stood or sat around the flame. Some others were on the higher levels. Belia was not among them. Not that she probably would be, considering they treated her like an outcast. He scratched his head, now concerned with her whereabouts.

Abruptly panic hit him. Where was she? He ran to the stairs and stared down into the oppressive darkness. On a ridge further down, a small figure in blue sat by the rock wall. She pulled her legs up and curled in till she looked like a discarded white and blue ball. He raced down to meet her.

She didn’t move or say a word as he sat cross-legged beside her. “Looks terrible down there.” His senses weren’t anything like Belia’s or Marlene’s, but even he could sense the evil. The forest of miasma probably made him more aware of it.

“It feels yuck.” Her voice was muffled.

“Why do you want to be so close to it?” Ely said.

“I don’t. I wanted to be away from…” Keeping her face buried in her knees, she pointed up, past him to the higher peaks. “…up there.”

He scrunched his lips up, regarding those near the candle. “I get that. But, I think they’re worried about you.”

Belia’s sarcastic laugh was muffled by her skirt. “Don’t lie.” She peaked at him with red rimmed eyes. “I can tell.”

Ely frowned at her sorrowful demeanor. “Guess you can.” He watched her bury her face again. “But, you know I worry.” He added, “That’s no lie.”

She sniffed and raised her head to wipe her eyes. “I know.” Suddenly, she jumped up and walked to the edge of the cliff. Hanging her head over, she gazed down and muttered, “… and that’s why…”

Ely leaped to his feet, his body abruptly pumping with fear. “Not so close.”

“I worry about you and Marlene.” With her back to him, she extended her arms wide, and her hair, blowing across her back, was pure white in the dull sunlight. “Ely, do you know what happened to my parents?”

“No…” But now, he was getting an awful notion of what might have taken place. “I don’t think I want—“

“It’s okay. Everything will be fine. You’ll see. You’ll make it.” Her voice was deadpan and beyond her young years. “That’s what they said.”

He inched closer to her, ready to spring and catch hold of her. “Yes, they were right. You’re here with us.”

“But… am I?” she said, “Maybe I have to say the same—” Her voice was like a mournful breeze as she tiptoed closer to the edge, “—to you, before I…”

Her parents’ fate, and maybe their decision, irritated him. They should never have burdened a child in that way. He cried, “No! You don’t have to do that. As long as you’re alive, there’s hope.”

She stopped and brought her arms to hold herself. “But, you don’t understand. I don’t want to wreck everything… everything I’ve done…”

He came closer, wanting to steady her shaking body. “You’re our friend. Because of you, Marlene and me, are alive. Because of you, we have the materia, which is supposed to save all of us, and the planet.” With stern determination, he said, “You’re not going to go like that. If something happens, it won’t erase what you have done.”

She glanced over her shoulder, her eyes welling with tears, she gave him a beseeching look. “You think... you will remember me?”

“I’d never forget you.” He reached out for her arm, intent on pulling her to safety. “But, if you… fell, I’d never get over it.”

Tears streamed down her face and she sobbed, “I don’t want to hurt you…”

Her ominous statement gave him chills that he chose to ignore. “We’ve come such a long way. We’ll deal with stuff when it happens. Surely a little kid can’t hurt me?” He scoffed playfully, bringing to mind his initial reaction when they first met.

Her eyes bugged out with sudden fear. “I can feel it. He’s coming…” Paleness came over her face, and her hand cupped her mouth as if she was going to throw up. “I don’t think I can hold on…”

“You’re not going to leave us.” Ely pleaded, his hand outstretched, and his hair whipped over his eyes. “Hold on.” But — hold on for what? The words were superficial and painfully empty. What hope would she be holding onto?

Her eyes misted over and her mouth moved, but she remained silent.

~ 7 ~

Marlene and the small group proceeded up stairways and through dwellings within the rocks, to the higher levels. Eventually they entered a doorway in the rock and climbed a ladder up to the highest mountain. They came out onto a small plaza with a house and gardens, and towering of everything was the observatory.

A robed, elderly man, came out and greeted them, and bowing his head to the Oracle, his long grey beard nearly touched the ground. “Finally. You have arrived. We have been waiting.”

Althaea bowed her face and took his proffered hand. “Elder Hargo. I am glad to see you are well. We could not come any sooner. But we are here, and now we must use the star-scape.”

“Yes, come, quickly.” The old man hobbled back towards the door, and despite his words, he moved slowly.

Talana told the two Cetras with them to keep watch outside, and she went in with Althaea and Branan. Marlene hesitated, wishing she could wait outside too.

Althaea called to Talana, “Bring the child.”

Talana gave Marlene a stern look and she waved her into the observatory. “Come.”

Marlene followed her into a room of old dusty furniture, with shelves of books and odd devices. She didn’t have time to look around as Talana ordered her to climb up another ladder after Althaea. Talana followed her, and lastly came Branan. The Elder appeared to be staying behind.

Another furnished room was upstairs. It was dim, but she could see a peculiar contraption on a circular platform in the center of the room. Without any words of explanation, Marlene was ushered onto the platform with the others. Talana pushed some buttons on the waist high contraption. With a flash of white light they started moving upwards into the open dome of the observatory. Strangely, it seemed greater in height and width than what she viewed from the outside.

The space was devoid of light, and an eerie quiet hung in the air. The silence was unnerving and she gripped her arms and whispered, “…so dark…”

“Not for long.” The presence of Branan alongside her was comforting in the peculiar and unfamiliar environment.

“Step back,” Althaea told them.

Marlene and Branan took a few steps back and Talana stood apart from them on the other side.

A small curved dish rose up on a slender pole from the machine at the center of the dias. Althaea placed the white materia on it, and it was a perfect fit for the orb. The materia shimmered and filled the room with a glittering light that danced over the walls and floor.

“Beautiful.” Marlene swirled in awe.

Branan also gazed about in wonder. “You don’t see this every day…”

Talana crossed her arms and eyed them with derision. “This is nothing.”

Althaea’s hand hovered over the orb and spoke words Marlene could not understand. The walls of the observatory disappeared revealing a virtual realistic scene of the universe. Millions of stars and countless planets formed the boundless universe. Althaea spoke, her voice a melodious chant spanning the solar system. The stars and planets fell back and one planet shot into view. Their Planet.

Althaea spoke towards the materia. “Great Mother, I stand before the seed of your presence, seeking your thoughts. Your children have urgent need of your aid.” She knelt with her face towards the Planet and murmured to herself.

Transfixed by the holographic vision of the distant universe and the planet, Marlene whispered, “What is it?”

“Quiet,” Talana ordered. “The Planet will speak.”

Marlene kept her thoughts to herself and watched with fascination the unfolding scene.
“Watch,” Branan nudged her arm.

The Planet slowly spun, allowing them to see blackness gathering at various areas. The patches of Jenova ran into each other, becoming more potent as they increased in size and depth. Dark tendrils bled into the light of the Planet as yet untouched by evil, and even upwards into the atmosphere. The light of the life-stream held it back but was becoming grey with Jenova’s pollution. The Planet boiled and pulsed with the ethereal conflict. Even Marlene sensed the battle in her spirit.

It occurred to her with stark reality, this was going on right now – all around her, and had been growing in intensity for decades. Had Holy done nothing? But she knew that wasn’t the case. It saved them from the meteorite. Would they always be fighting this insidious evil?

The light of the Planet was diminishing and was less than half the area. Marlene gave a horrified gasp at how far reaching the evil of Jenova was. Were they the only ones remaining in the light? Instinctively she knew Tifa was bound in that darkness. Out from the black, a terrible mass of darkness spurt up, like a geyser. Writhing into a sphere of powerful chaotic energy, it halted in the atmosphere above everything. Out from it spewed streams of the plague of Jenova onto the areas of light.

Marlene whispered, “This is bad!”

“No kidding,” Branan whispered in agreement.

Althaea kept on praying, oblivious to their presence.

In the grey area, between light and dark, the life-stream pushed and pulsed, struggling to rise. Eventually it pushed through and escaped the hold of the life-stream to form a chaotic orb.

This caught Talana’s attention and she stepped forward, peering at the scene with astonishment.

The Jenova sphere sitting above the Planet latched onto the newly formed orb, wrapping its tentacles around it. As well, black tendrils from the Jenova mass over the Planet, tried to grab the ball of life-stream.

When it seemed the white orb would be consumed, an insignificant speck fired up into the air. It entered into the weakened orb sinking into the darkness. The tiny light exploded, setting off multiple blasts of dazzling light. The orb expanded with force and rose above the planet. Nearby stars added brilliance to its power. Like an exploding star, its glorious rays flared outwards in all directions.

Abruptly, the scene disappeared and the chamber dimmed to a glimmering radiance from the materia.

Marlene breathed again, realizing she held her breath at the climactic display, despite not really understanding it at all. However, it gave her hope for some reason, but she was puzzled why it had to suddenly disappear without revealing the end. What did it all mean?

The Oracle stood and faced them. Her face was glowing, yet even she had a concerned look.
Talana gave her a knowing nod, and she seemed disappointed. “That’s that then.”

Althaea shared a somber gaze with her. “And so it begins.”

“It really is something,” Branan said in awe. “But, we still don’t know the outcome?”

“But what has begun?” Marlene’s gaze flicked between them all in bewilderment.

Althaea stood before Marlene, and her face was somber. “It is a costly power and demands a weight of spirit essence. Not to worry, I have paid for much of it.”

Talana lowered her gaze to the floor, and even Banan looked dismayed.

Marlene only felt more confused. “And what does it do?”

“It is a new weapon,” Althaea gazed at the resting the materia with a satisfied smile. “Previously the weapons were not suitable for the Planet’s defense. Gaia has called into being a unique buttress.” She stretched her hand towards Marlene and rested it on her shoulder. “I have seen. It can be only you, the Gentle one. No one else.”

“No…” Marlene shook her head, all her dread over the materia was now coming to pass. “I can’t…”

Althaea took her hand in both of hers, and warmth entered Marlene’s body. “To you, it is Celeste. To us, it will be Celestial.”

Marlene stared into her vibrant green eyes, and despite her trepidation, she floated in a strange contentment. Althaea had a way of pouring calm into her thoughts. “…I don’t know how…”

“You will. That is why it must be you.” She placed her hand on her head. “Just like Aeris knew.”

Talana grunted. “Aeris knew too late.”

“We will not be late this time.” Althaea gave her a warning glance.

Marlene stared at the tall auburn haired woman, dumbfounded. “Because Midgar was destroyed?”

“Because she lost her life,” Talana replied with blunt impact, “Jenova hunted her on all sides.”

Marlene stared, speechless, trying to understand what she was really saying.

“It is true,” Althaea added, “But she made the decision. The price was high. She saved many of us by her faithfulness.”

“Did she really have to die?” Marlene’s voice trembled.

Althaea caressed her hair in reassurance. “Some have more power from within the Life-stream, and they continue on, protecting the Planet and its inhabitants from there.”

“In answer to your question, no,” Talana fired out and crossed her arms in response.

“Sounds like a good way to go.” Branan drew his hand through his hair. “Saving the planet…”

Marlene tried to smile, but the whole conversation was making her sad, and more confused about what went on back then.

Suddenly, Althaea’s hand stiffened on Marlene’s head and her eyes met with Talana. “It’s coming. The key - here.”

Talana unfolded her arms and her face reddened with anger. “It’s time.”

“The prophecy is nearly fulfilled.” The Oracle spoke over them with authority, “’Calamity from the stars borders on dominion,
Hybrids pollute life into death,
Last light endures and births the sibling-kind,
Humans and the Ancient Race will unite against the plague.
The key is hidden where the sun does not shine,
Where Light and Dark combine in power divine,
Peace is wield in the hand of the gentle’,”
She said with determination, “You will know what to do.”

Talana gripped her blade. “It’s finally come.”

Althaea grasped her arm and held it down. “You must control your emotions. Do not be enslaved to the past.” She said to Branan, “Get the white materia. It must be given to Marlene.”

Branan fetched the materia from the dish and muttering to himself, he put it back into Marlene’s pouch on her shoulder. Too distressed to worry about it now, Marlene cried, “What is coming?”

Branan curled up his lip. “All I can sense is the enemy.”

“I know.” Talana growled, “He’s come for the materia?”

“I’m not certain,” The oracle stared into a distant spot, “No matter what happens, it will not be as it seems.”