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Chapter 20- Tifa Returns: Part 2

Cloud cruised Fenrir down the rocky cliffs of Gaia as twilight fell. The blonde's eyes scanned across the purple-clad sky, hazed over with pink and deep blue clouds left over from the sunset. Stars were beginning to appear now and it was growing dark. Cloud brought his hand down and switched on the headlights, just to make sure that if he ran across anything he'd see it. It was always hard to tell if he was going to be attacked in the dark by some lurking, unsuspecting foe. Cloud wasn't going to allow himself be caught off-guard, no matter how much his pain and anguish was attempting to swallow him whole. His head was pounding and his heart throbbed in his ears. The swordsman didn't care though. He had to get to the Northern Crater. He had to find his way to save her. That much he knew. He wasn't going to let Sephiorth take somebody else he loved.

As the blonde pressed his foot a little harder on the gas, feeling the cool night air blow through his soft, spiked locks, he came to discover something about himself. He had grown so close to this woman. He had felt in his heart that more than anything, he truly did love her. Not the way he loved Tifa and not the way he loved Mari, but it was a different love. The same love he had felt for Aerith, only deeper. He had questioned himself numerous times if he only fell for her because of Aerith. No he didn't, and Cloud realized that now. He realized that he truly was in love with this woman, and it was the type of person she was that made Cloud fall so hard.

While Aerith had a soft, gentle and sweet way about her and loved nature, Andria was like the stronger side. Yes she was sweet, nurturing to the children while Tifa had been away and would do anything for the people she loved, but she was also a fighter. The Ancient was brilliantly skilled when it came to using her blades, this much Cloud did know and she was strong. Her personality was another thing that stuck out to him. She was happy and upbeat yes, but she was also quick to speak her mind and she also showed pain. He knew right then and there that it wasn't because she was related to Aerith or that she even looked like Aerith that he loved this girl. He loved this beautiful Cetra for who she was and not because of the flower girl. Of course he would always love Aerith. She had been his first, real love but now it was time for him to move on. Aerith had led them together and Cloud knew this now. He had moved on, or so he thought.

Cloud dug deeper into his ocean of secrets which he kept buried his heart and came to realize that the happier he was getting, the lonelier he was becoming. The closer he became to the last remaining Ancient, the further away she was being taken from him. Did he feel this way because he feared having something else so beautiful, so gentle, and so innocent taken away from him again? Andria was in every way because she was, kind, fiesty and yet her innocence she portrayed was endearing in Cloud's eyes. When he closed his azure orbs, all he could see was her face. And yes, it was her face, not Aerith's. Not anymore. It was hers. There was no mistaking it. Aerith's name didn't cross his mind either. Andria's name was the one that he could hear in his head. Andria...I'm so sorry… Cloud continued to drive into the night as the sky fell dark and the stars twinkled brightly down at him. The moon rose high and was nearly full. Only a few days to go and it would be.

"It's been so long since I could just hold my head up and face the world," Cloud spoke to himself, his voice mixing in the gentle roar of Fenrir underneath. "I really thought I was going to be okay, but now I'm not so sure."

As the swordsman continued riding on, he found himself coming closer and closer to the familiar, glowing trees and he grimaced. This one thing he was definitely going to hate about trying to get the Northern Crater by his Fenrir. He would have to pass through the Sleeping Forest in order to get there.  The trees were standing out fairly bright against the darkness and Cloud shuddered. He was coming closer to the place that always brought back the painful memories of the past. He recalled a year ago that he had fought the three remnants of Sephiroth in this sacred place. This was the place where they had fought JENOVA, not long after Sephiroth had put an end to Aerith Gainsborough's life right there in the Ancient City.

Cloud tried to push the painful thoughts through his mind as he drove into the forest. He could remember feeling her presence here a year ago when he came to rescue the kids from the silver-haired men. He also remembered how fully well he was able to connect with her. Cloud could feel her presence, the closer he came to the spring of which she was laid to rest. His thoughts drifted off. As much as he loved Andria, he was still connected to the flower girl. Cloud couldn't deny that he needed her right now. He needed her help with his feelings. He didn't know how to interpret them. The blonde found himself lost in a swirl of thoughts as he encountered a pulling sensation and was thrown back into the same whitespace as before, hearing laughter…playful female laughter…

"You really need to stop running," her voice stated cheerfully. "You're going to end up rubbing those tires right off of that bike!"

"Is that...Aerith is that you?" he asked, his deep voice echoed all around them. Cloud couldn't help but feel slightly shocked she had connected with his mind in such a quick span of time. It had been so long since they had done that, but then again it had been a long time since he had ridden out here. He seemed to connect with her best here.

"Who else did you think it was silly?" replied Aerith's voice playfully.

The blonde man blushed at her words. "I'm really sorry. I-I miss you."

"I know you do," she acknowledged. "But you're running again, Cloud. You finally started to find happiness with my sister, didn't you?" Aerith knew Cloud better than he knew himself sometimes.

Cloud blushed again turning his head slightly away as he felt her hand on his arm. He inclined it to see if she were really there, but he saw nothing. He was all alone in the whitespace, but he knew Aerith was there spiritually. "I...," he began, but couldn't finish. More playful laughter from the flower girl ensued.

"So here we are again, only the situation is different this time, am I right?" the Cetra predicted. "You're running from something that you know is going to bring you happiness."

"I didn't...I mean I don't want to run. I'm not trying-," the swordsman struggled with his words.

"But you are, Cloud. You're running from what I tried to give you," Aerith stated.  "Why Cloud? I want you to protect my sister. You need to go be her bodyguard now!" she laughed.

"I guess I'm just scared," Cloud admitted sheepishly.

"Why are you scared, Cloud? Or what are you scared of? I know you love her. So why don't you go and take care of her like I wanted you to?" Aerith continued to have a cheerful ring to her voice. "Were you feeling guilty?"

"Maybe...a little guilty, at starting to..you know...have feelings for her when I had feelings for you and.... I mean it's so confusing," the swordsman continued softly.

Aerith just laughed. "It's okay Cloud. There's no reason for you to feel guilty! I knew that if I somehow brought you two together, my sister would be protected," the flower girl replied. "I knew what could happen if I brought you to her. I knew that there was a high possiblity that you'd fall in love with her. I do know that my sister loves you," she added. "So why can't you go and be with her?"

"Aerith, it's not that easy. You know what's happening. Sephiroth is on the verge of another Reunion. I can't let her die the way you did...I could...never live with myself if I just let her die. I let you die and I can't let that happen to her too," Cloud told her, sounding almost desperate.

"Cloud you're so complex," Aerith giggled. "Always stuck in his ways! You're just as stubborn as the hair on your head!" Cloud felt a hand on the back of his head tug at his spikes. The blonde reached his hand back to swat her hand away, but it wasn't there anymore. It had vanished along with the teasing, playful laughter of Aerith's.

Cloud found himself back in reality as he stared ahead at the road. He had gradually slowed down Fenrir while speaking with Aerith. She was right. He had to admit that she was really correct in everything she had said to him. He was running from what he was afraid of. He was running away from the fear of falling in love only to have his heart broken again. He was running away from the one thing that he knew would bring him eternal happiness, but he was also running towards the one thing that could stop them being together forever. He was more determined now than he had felt in a long time. He was going to defeat Sephiroth for good. He'd done at three times now and he would keep doing it until Sephiroth was gone. Cloud vowed to himself that he would continue doing it for Andria's sake and for her safety.

"I only want to save her. It's been so long since I've felt this way," he continued to try and talk to Aerith as Cloud found himself back in front of the spring in the Forgotten City. This was where Aerith had been buried after being slain by the hand of Sephiroth. Cloud pulled Fenrir up just near the water where he had laid the innocent Cetra to rest. He remembered that day too clearly. It was still burned within his mind. The swordsman dismounted Fenrir and approached the water.

"Then go and be by her side, Cloud!" came her voice again. "She's crushed right now because you're gone."

"But Aerith, I don't want her anywhere near Sephiroth. If she does get near him, he'll..," Cloud swallowed as he fought against the words he didn't want to say.  The dream he had about her flashed before his eyes. He could remember the way Sephiroth had ran the sword right through Andria's chest, purging her of her life and he shook his blonde head furiously. "He'll kill her."

"Oh Cloud, what on earth makes you think something like that? Just because Sephiroth killed me, you think he'll do the same to Andi?" Aerith asked curiously.

"Because...I saw it...I saw it happen to her in a dream," he stated as he sat down next to the water on a severed tree that had been brought down during the battle with the remnants, and stared at the softly rippling, crystal blue surface. Cloud rested his elbows on his knees and buried his face in both of his hands, trying to drown out his emotions that threatened to take over again. Just saying the words 'kill her' was enough to send him over the edge again.

"Our worst fears become nightmares, Cloud, but it doesn't mean it has to become reality," the flower girl replied soothingly towards Cloud and he felt his hair be brushed back from his face.  "Do you really feel that what you saw in your subconscious was real?" Aerith asked, resting her hands on the swordsman's shoulders.

"I don't know...all I know is that I let you die, Aerith. After seeing what I did, I can't let her die too. I can go and finish Sephiroth off on my own this time. Andria doesn't need to be near him. She doesn't need to get hurt because of me. You know why Sephiroth is returning. He's always going to find a way to come back for me. Sephiroth has always had it out for me."

"Yes he has Cloud, but what you don't understand is that you can't do this alone. You can't fight him alone this time," Aerith spoke in barely above a whisper.

"I can too and I will. I will defeat him. I won't let him hurt the people I love and I'll protect Andria with my life. I failed to protect you and I won't fail to protect her," the blonde stated defiantly.

"Cloud, Andria's half Cetra. She's just like me. Her destiny is continue to protect the Planet and by that meaning she has a hand in defeating Sephiroth as well," Aerith explained calmly. "It's in her hands to defeat him just as much, if not more, than it is in yours."

Cloud buried his face even further in his hands, pressing his palms against his burning eyes. His head pounded even more furiously. The same, mako eyes with slits for pupils burned behind his eyelids.

"Tell me what you cherish most...give me the pleasure of taking it away," the voice sneered, echoing in his mind, and it was followed by the sinister laugh that came out of nowhere and made his head throb against his temples even harder.

"Cloud, I can't control what you will or will not do," the flower girl stated sadly, breaking the cold voice from his mind. "But I will tell you that Andi needs you now more than ever."

"And she'll have me as soon as I defeat Sephiroth. She can't fight him...she'll die," Cloud muttered into his hands. Why did all of this have to be so hard and confusing?

Aerith just sighed. "Dilly dally shilly shally," she stated softly. "She needs you now and you're being too stubborn. You're being too quick to protect her. Andria's strong, Cloud. A lot stronger than one would think. So, just think about what I said, okay?" her voice faded out.

Cloud continued to sit on the severed tree and lifted his face from his hands. He scanned the area that surrounded him and craned his head around to see if she were still there, but Aerith's presence had disappeared. He no longer felt her hands on his shoulders. Cloud could feel his eyelids growing heavy as he stared out at the waters. He reached down into his pocket and pulled out the green silk hair ribbon of Andria's. Cloud could feel unbidden, crystalline tears burning his eyes again as he stared down at the ribbon, and he brushed them harshly away with the back of his hand. The swordsman somehow knew that he was being stupid for wanting to find Sephiroth on his own, but there was no way in hell he was going to let Andria go out there and try to fight him too. The dream still continued to torment his mind and he could still see her being eliminated by him. Cloud was not going to let her die. He had to protect her. Nothing was going to harm her if he could help it.

Cloud pulled out a rolled up sleeping bag he kept tucked away in one of Fenrir's compartments and rolled it out across the grass amongst the trees. He would go ahead and stay here for the night. He had a long road ahead of him tomorrow to get to the Northern Crater and Cloud wasn't going to let anything or anyone stand in his way. Feeling a fresh, new sensation of strength and fearlessness wash over him, Cloud slipped inside of the sleeping bag. The blonde loved her. He truly did. No...he was in love with her and he realized this now. He took Andria's green hair ribbon, still clutched in his hand, tied it tightly around his wrist and tucked it underneath his glove. Cloud declared in his mind that right then and there that if he had to go to the ends of the earth to protect Andria, then he damn well would.

"Andria, I love you too much to let anything happen to you. I would die for you," he whispered to the stars before rolling onto his side and drifting off into sleep.

~*~*~*~*~

Andria and Mari were sitting up at the bar, later that night, sipping a mixed drink that Shera had so graciously put together for them, deep in conversation. Andria had changed into her new outfit and Mari had pulled some of Andria's hair up, tying it with one of her green hair ribbons and curling the ends. She had done that earlier when the girls had returned from their shopping trip to try and cheer her best friend up. Upon her return, nobody questioned Andria about Cloud. They had noticed her eyes were red and swollen. They could tell that Cetra had been crying. She had received hugs from everyone and words of care, asking if she was alright. The whole entire group wouldn't admit it, but they had sensed her sadness and inner anguish.

Andria just pulled on a brave face, smiled and told everyone that she would be okay. They all knew that the girl had just discovered the truth about herself and figured that this was why Andria was as broken up as she was. Shera had taken it upon herself to make Andria and Mari drinks, hoping that it would help Andria relax. As the two sat back, Mari continued chatting about how she wanted to do Andria's hair, when the door to the bar flung open rather harshly. The noise distracted Andria and Mari from their conversation. The two exchanged glances before they were interrupted by a egotistical, cocky male presence.

"So, do you plan on getting yourself shit-faced?" came a drawling voice from behind Andria. She turned around to come face to face with a red-headed Turk. He carried a sinister look on his narrow features and was tapping his electric rod against his thigh as though trying to be intimidating. It wasn't working. Andria just rolled her eyes and Mari's brilliant green ones narrowed and stared sharply.

"No we didn't plan on it Reno. Gods, you're such an ass," retorted the mage as she turned and stared daggers up at the lanky Turk, her green eyes darkened and flashed dangerously as they burned into Reno's blue-green ones.

"Hey, takes one to know one," Reno shot back and he and Rude exchanged short laughs. His eyes fell onto the Cetra who was mindlessly sipping her drink from a straw, doing her best to ignore the insults coming from the two men. She exchanged intermittent glances with Mari once more as the Turk advanced towards her. Reno leaned down on the counter and had his face inches from Andria's. She raised an eyebrow at him and pushed herself backwards from Reno. "So little lady. Where's your Cloudy boy tonight? Usually you two are inseparable." His breath blew back in her face and she could smell the whiskey already on it. He was obviously drunk.

Andria turned her head from Reno and closed her eyes painfully at the mention of his name. Once upon a time, they had been inseparable. Mari caught the look of hurt on her heart-sick friend's face and felt the anger burning in her chest. Didn't Reno have any compassion for others at all? Her lush green eyes blazed as the materia beneath her flesh growing dangerously in her hands.

"Just shut up about Cloud, Reno. It's none of your damn business," the mage growled, her teeth clenched.

"Ah, so Cloud's not around is he? Hmmm, well maybe I could take his place in your bed tonight?" Reno stated silkily, taking his finger and running it down Andria's cheek.

The Cetra averted her eyes in disgust. Andria was about to retaliate when she heard a rather loud yelp. Her eyes flew open, and she looked towards where the Turk had previously been standing. Reno was being pulled back from her with a terrified look on his face. Andria's eyes widened as she saw a familiar face and heard the familiar voice. A small, silver earring dangled from the left ear. A black gloved hand was wrapped around the Turk's ponytail.

"If you want to cause trouble then go do it elsewhere, but for now, leave my friend the hell alone," Tifa growled as she pulled Reno's head back next to her face. "She doesn't need scum like you," the martial artist added dangerously.

"Hey! Tifa! Long time no see!" bellowed Reno as he stared upwards towards Tifa's face which was glaring at him. She had his head drawn back as though the Turk were about to have this throat slit. "Where ya been! We've been missing your hot ass around here," the red-head stated drunkenly. "I missed watching the bar and seeing the first thing come out the door be your-," but the Reno replaced his sentence with another yelp of pain and his blue-green eyes widened. Tifa tightened her grasp on Reno's ponytail. The raven-haired woman drew his head back even further.

"Don't you even say it. You do and you'll be damn sorry you ever stepped one foot into my bar," she stated coolly and released her grip, giving Reno a hard shove, sending him flying across the room. He had grab a table as he tottered unsteadily on his feet to keep himself from nearly falling down. Rude just stood and stared at Reno and then at Tifa, his mouth slightly opened in surprise that the woman had such brutal strength. She tossed her dark hair over her shoulder and looked over at Mari and Andria.

Andria quickly turned away, feeling her face flushing hot. Tifa had came back to the bar and she had also removed Reno from advancing on her. Tifa had kept the blood-thirsty Turk from making a move on her. The Cetra had been beyond certain that Tifa hated her, but from the look Tifa had given her it didn't seem that way at all. She couldn't help but feel slightly befuddled.

"Tifa!" exclaimed Mari as she ran over to the martial artist and threw her arms around her neck. "Where in the hell have you been! You had us worried sick!" she stated angrily as she released her grip on her.

"I've had a lot of time to do some thinking. I owe some people an apology, I know," Tifa stated sheepishly, returning the hug to Mari. She went over next to Andria and sat down beside her. "I know I really owe you an apology, Andi," she began.

"M-me?" Andria asked, slightly stunned. She turned towards the woman and saw the sincerity in her dark eyes. "Why do you owe me an apology?"

Tifa sighed and sat down in seat next to the Cetra and lowered her head. "Because of the way I acted towards Cloud and your relationship. I should have realized that him being my best friend, he was growing feelings for you. While I do love Cloud, I know it'll never work between us. I've had a lot of time to myself to think and learn some things," the martial artist commented. She titled her head slightly and smiled at Andria. She reached her hand out and placed it on Andria's shoulder. "I don't hate you and I'm really sorry for doing what I did."

Tears were sparkling in Andria's emerald eyes as she looked up at the woman in front of her. She returned the smile to Tifa. There was so much that needed to be said, but the Cetra had no idea where to even begin. As much as she cared for Tifa, the martial artist had no idea who she was. Quite honestly, Andria was afraid that if she told her Tifa might start to resent her again. They were now on the verge of making up. Why did all of this have to happen now?

"It's okay, I'm just really glad you're alright, Tifa. I was really worried," Andria replied. "I...," she began as she sat down her drink and turned to walk away before either girl could see the tears that had broken free and were descending down her cheeks.

The Ancient felt a hand grab her around the cuff and she was turned around coming face to face with the dark haired woman again. Tifa was confused as to why Andria was running so soon. She looked down into the girl's face worriedly and then looked over at Mari who also had a sad look on her face. There was just so much that she didn't know and Tifa was very confused. She didn't understand why Andria was so sad, but she figured it had to of been because of her. Tifa felt instant sympathy for the girl at seeing her tears.

"Andi, what is it?" Tifa asked worriedly, holding the girl by the shoulders now. "What's wrong?"

Andria just shook her head. She didn't want to say stuff right here in the middle of the bar. Mari acknowledged that this was making the Cetra uncomfortable and she beckoned towards the stairs.
"How about we go upstairs and talk, that why nobody can hear what Andi has to say?" Mari suggested.

"Alright, I think that's a good idea and besides, I have so much to tell you girls!" Tifa exclaimed. "So let's go upstairs so we can talk."

She nodded her dark head and put an arm around Andria's slightly heaving shoulders. Mari stood on the other side of Andria and copied the gesture. The two women led Andria away from the bar and ascended up the staircase. The two girls entered the living quarters and sat down on the couch with Andria in between them. The Cetra just sat with her head hanging, her long bangs hiding her face from view. Tifa and Mari both moved her bangs back from her face to better see her. It wasn't fair to Tifa. Andria knew she needed to tell her everything. She felt so sorry for everything that had happened and she felt scared. How on earth would the Cetra tell Tifa that her best friend was gone because of her? Tifa had placed a hand on Andria's back and was rubbing small, comforting circles on it. She really did care for the Cetra and Andria could tell.

"Andi, I think we need to tell Tifa what's going on," came the mage's voice quietly in her ear.

Andria nodded her head in agreement. She turned towards Tifa and took her hands. "Tifa, there's something I have to tell you. Something really important, but...I want to hear all about what you have to tell us first," she stated, wiping her eyes and composing herself.

"Are you sure? Mine can wait if it's really important," Tifa stated warmly as she continued to rub the Ancient's back.

Andria nodded her head. "Of course! I want to know what kind of fabulous adventures Miss Tifa Lockhart has been on," she commented, forcing a smile on her face. "So what all have you been doing while you were gone?"

"Well, I just did some traveling and I ended back out in Mideel. They completely rebuilt the town! Well, while I was there I met someone," Tifa gushed as her cheeks turned rosy pink.

"Ooooh, you met someone did you?" questioned the mage playfully. "Was it a man or a woman?"

"A man of course!" laughed Tifa. She leaned back on the couch with a dreamy sigh. "His name is Dr. Aiden Meeks and we met at a small coffee shop in the newly built Mideel. He's got sandy brown hair, dark green eyes and tan skin," she gushed. "He's so handsome."

"Oooo a doctor," teased Andi. "So did he, how should I put this, give you a physical?" Her emerald eyes were sparkling with laughter. She was so happy to hear that Tifa had found somebody and she felt that right now, she just needed to push away her pain and focus on her friend's happiness.

"Oh he gave me a physical alright," Tifa replied slyly. "And I must say it was one hell of a check-up."

The statement caused all three of the girls to burst into laughter. "We want details!" urged Mari.

"Yeah! Tell us all about this tall, dark and handsome doctor!" Andria laughed and shoved Tifa playfully.

And so for the next hour, Andria and Mari sat and listened to Tifa carry on about Aiden. The girls talked about Tifa's trip around Gaia and squealed over all the stuff that Tifa had brought back with her from her trip. They laughed at how Tifa had told them that President Shinra's house in Costa del Sol was still for sale. During their conversation, Mari had gotten up to go and make the girls some hot tea. They needed something for their dry throats from all the talking and laughing that they had done. After Mari's swift departure to the kitchen, Tifa took it upon herself to thoroughly explain to Andria why she had left in the first place. Her face grew red as she lowered her head, not able to face the Cetra. Mari listened from the kitchen while she bustled about the counter, making the tea.

"I just thought that Cloud was...staying with you because you're so much like Aerith. I now realize that I was wrong and totally jealous of what you two were beginning to share. I realize and understand now that Cloud and I can never have what I wanted. We're too much alike. I guess that's why we're best friends, and I've learned to accept that. So, I just wanted to say that I'm really sorry Andi. I'm really sorry for saying what I did and I hope you can forgive me," Tifa stated. She turned towards the girl and took Andria's hands in both of hers. "I'm so sorry, Andi," Tifa told her, staring sincerely into the Cetra's sparkling green orbs. Tears were welling up the girl's dark eyes now. "Do you forgive me?"

Andria just shook her head. "Don't talk anymore, Teef. Don't apologize either, it's not needed. I'm just...I'm so happy for you," she whispered and the two women wrapped their arms around each other.

Andria and Tifa hugged tightly and sobbed. The Ancient felt some of the weight lift off of her shoulders at knowing that Tifa never hated her at all, that she was just wanting what she couldn't have. She also felt a tad guilty, but the Cetra knew that Tifa had moved on and she felt supreme happiness for her friend. The two girls broke apart, half sobbing and half laughing. They wiped their eyes and Tifa turned back towards the Cetra, a serious look in her eyes.

"Andi, I want you to be with Cloud. I saw the happiness that you brought him and he even told me himself that he liked being with you. I want nothing more than for Cloud to be happy, but I just didn't want to accept what he wanted at the time. I understand now. Besides, if I tried to have a romantic relationship with my best friend, I could end up losing him. I really don't want that to happen," Tifa added. "So please. Go and be with Cloud. I'm sure you guys have had plenty of time to get close, huh?" Tifa added with a playful nudge.

Andria just nodded her head and tried to brush away her tears, but they just kept coming. "I would be with Cloud, Tifa, but...there's just...there's so much I have to tell you."

"What is it you have to tell me?" Tifa asked, looking down at the girl worriedly. "It has to be something really serious." Tifa noticed the look in Andria's eyes and she also had noticed Cloud wasn't around. She figured she'd ask where Cloud was if Andria didn't have an explanation as to his whereabouts.

Andria nodded her head as Mari came back into the living room, holding a tray with three hot cups of tea on it. She handed each girl a cup and then proceeded to sit next to Andria.

"Teef, while you were gone, I found out a lot of stuff. I found out all about my past, I found out who I really am and why I'm so much like Aerith," the Cetra began apprehensively. Andria took a sip from her tea and looked down at her legs.

The martial artist's dark eyes widened as she stared at the girl. "What...what did you find out?" she asked in barely above a whisper. Yes, this was definitely something important...something serious.

Andria took a deep breath and looked over at Mari uncertainly. She was so afraid to tell Tifa the truth, but why? Then again here lately, since everything had happened she'd been more and more scared of saying the wrong thing and making the people she loved resent her. Mari gave the girl a look of encouragement and Andria took a deep breath.

"Tifa...I'm a Cetra."

Description
Chapter 20- Tifa Returns: Part 2

Cloud cruised Fenrir down the rocky cliffs of Gaia as twilight fell. The blonde's eyes scanned across the purple-clad sky, hazed over with pink and deep blue clouds left over from the sunset. Stars were beginning to appear now and it was growing dark. Cloud brought his hand down and switched on the headlights, just to make sure that if he ran across anything he'd see it. It was always hard to tell if he was going to be attacked in the dark by some lurking, unsuspecting foe. Cloud wasn't going to allow himself be caught off-guard, no matter how much his pain and anguish was attempting to swallow him whole. His head was pounding and his heart throbbed in his ears. The swordsman didn't care though. He had to get to the Northern Crater. He had to find his way to save her. That much he knew. He wasn't going to let Sephiorth take somebody else he loved.

As the blonde pressed his foot a little harder on the gas, feeling the cool night air blow through his soft, spiked locks, he came to discover something about himself. He had grown so close to this woman. He had felt in his heart that more than anything, he truly did love her. Not the way he loved Tifa and not the way he loved Mari, but it was a different love. The same love he had felt for Aerith, only deeper. He had questioned himself numerous times if he only fell for her because of Aerith. No he didn't, and Cloud realized that now. He realized that he truly was in love with this woman, and it was the type of person she was that made Cloud fall so hard.

While Aerith had a soft, gentle and sweet way about her and loved nature, Andria was like the stronger side. Yes she was sweet, nurturing to the children while Tifa had been away and would do anything for the people she loved, but she was also a fighter. The Ancient was brilliantly skilled when it came to using her blades, this much Cloud did know and she was strong. Her personality was another thing that stuck out to him. She was happy and upbeat yes, but she was also quick to speak her mind and she also showed pain. He knew right then and there that it wasn't because she was related to Aerith or that she even looked like Aerith that he loved this girl. He loved this beautiful Cetra for who she was and not because of the flower girl. Of course he would always love Aerith. She had been his first, real love but now it was time for him to move on. Aerith had led them together and Cloud knew this now. He had moved on, or so he thought.

Cloud dug deeper into his ocean of secrets which he kept buried his heart and came to realize that the happier he was getting, the lonelier he was becoming. The closer he became to the last remaining Ancient, the further away she was being taken from him. Did he feel this way because he feared having something else so beautiful, so gentle, and so innocent taken away from him again? Andria was in every way because she was, kind, fiesty and yet her innocence she portrayed was endearing in Cloud's eyes. When he closed his azure orbs, all he could see was her face. And yes, it was her face, not Aerith's. Not anymore. It was hers. There was no mistaking it. Aerith's name didn't cross his mind either. Andria's name was the one that he could hear in his head. Andria...I'm so sorry… Cloud continued to drive into the night as the sky fell dark and the stars twinkled brightly down at him. The moon rose high and was nearly full. Only a few days to go and it would be.

"It's been so long since I could just hold my head up and face the world," Cloud spoke to himself, his voice mixing in the gentle roar of Fenrir underneath. "I really thought I was going to be okay, but now I'm not so sure."

As the swordsman continued riding on, he found himself coming closer and closer to the familiar, glowing trees and he grimaced. This one thing he was definitely going to hate about trying to get the Northern Crater by his Fenrir. He would have to pass through the Sleeping Forest in order to get there.  The trees were standing out fairly bright against the darkness and Cloud shuddered. He was coming closer to the place that always brought back the painful memories of the past. He recalled a year ago that he had fought the three remnants of Sephiroth in this sacred place. This was the place where they had fought JENOVA, not long after Sephiroth had put an end to Aerith Gainsborough's life right there in the Ancient City.

Cloud tried to push the painful thoughts through his mind as he drove into the forest. He could remember feeling her presence here a year ago when he came to rescue the kids from the silver-haired men. He also remembered how fully well he was able to connect with her. Cloud could feel her presence, the closer he came to the spring of which she was laid to rest. His thoughts drifted off. As much as he loved Andria, he was still connected to the flower girl. Cloud couldn't deny that he needed her right now. He needed her help with his feelings. He didn't know how to interpret them. The blonde found himself lost in a swirl of thoughts as he encountered a pulling sensation and was thrown back into the same whitespace as before, hearing laughter…playful female laughter…

"You really need to stop running," her voice stated cheerfully. "You're going to end up rubbing those tires right off of that bike!"

"Is that...Aerith is that you?" he asked, his deep voice echoed all around them. Cloud couldn't help but feel slightly shocked she had connected with his mind in such a quick span of time. It had been so long since they had done that, but then again it had been a long time since he had ridden out here. He seemed to connect with her best here.

"Who else did you think it was silly?" replied Aerith's voice playfully.

The blonde man blushed at her words. "I'm really sorry. I-I miss you."

"I know you do," she acknowledged. "But you're running again, Cloud. You finally started to find happiness with my sister, didn't you?" Aerith knew Cloud better than he knew himself sometimes.

Cloud blushed again turning his head slightly away as he felt her hand on his arm. He inclined it to see if she were really there, but he saw nothing. He was all alone in the whitespace, but he knew Aerith was there spiritually. "I...," he began, but couldn't finish. More playful laughter from the flower girl ensued.

"So here we are again, only the situation is different this time, am I right?" the Cetra predicted. "You're running from something that you know is going to bring you happiness."

"I didn't...I mean I don't want to run. I'm not trying-," the swordsman struggled with his words.

"But you are, Cloud. You're running from what I tried to give you," Aerith stated.  "Why Cloud? I want you to protect my sister. You need to go be her bodyguard now!" she laughed.

"I guess I'm just scared," Cloud admitted sheepishly.

"Why are you scared, Cloud? Or what are you scared of? I know you love her. So why don't you go and take care of her like I wanted you to?" Aerith continued to have a cheerful ring to her voice. "Were you feeling guilty?"

"Maybe...a little guilty, at starting to..you know...have feelings for her when I had feelings for you and.... I mean it's so confusing," the swordsman continued softly.

Aerith just laughed. "It's okay Cloud. There's no reason for you to feel guilty! I knew that if I somehow brought you two together, my sister would be protected," the flower girl replied. "I knew what could happen if I brought you to her. I knew that there was a high possiblity that you'd fall in love with her. I do know that my sister loves you," she added. "So why can't you go and be with her?"

"Aerith, it's not that easy. You know what's happening. Sephiroth is on the verge of another Reunion. I can't let her die the way you did...I could...never live with myself if I just let her die. I let you die and I can't let that happen to her too," Cloud told her, sounding almost desperate.

"Cloud you're so complex," Aerith giggled. "Always stuck in his ways! You're just as stubborn as the hair on your head!" Cloud felt a hand on the back of his head tug at his spikes. The blonde reached his hand back to swat her hand away, but it wasn't there anymore. It had vanished along with the teasing, playful laughter of Aerith's.

Cloud found himself back in reality as he stared ahead at the road. He had gradually slowed down Fenrir while speaking with Aerith. She was right. He had to admit that she was really correct in everything she had said to him. He was running from what he was afraid of. He was running away from the fear of falling in love only to have his heart broken again. He was running away from the one thing that he knew would bring him eternal happiness, but he was also running towards the one thing that could stop them being together forever. He was more determined now than he had felt in a long time. He was going to defeat Sephiroth for good. He'd done at three times now and he would keep doing it until Sephiroth was gone. Cloud vowed to himself that he would continue doing it for Andria's sake and for her safety.

"I only want to save her. It's been so long since I've felt this way," he continued to try and talk to Aerith as Cloud found himself back in front of the spring in the Forgotten City. This was where Aerith had been buried after being slain by the hand of Sephiroth. Cloud pulled Fenrir up just near the water where he had laid the innocent Cetra to rest. He remembered that day too clearly. It was still burned within his mind. The swordsman dismounted Fenrir and approached the water.

"Then go and be by her side, Cloud!" came her voice again. "She's crushed right now because you're gone."

"But Aerith, I don't want her anywhere near Sephiroth. If she does get near him, he'll..," Cloud swallowed as he fought against the words he didn't want to say.  The dream he had about her flashed before his eyes. He could remember the way Sephiroth had ran the sword right through Andria's chest, purging her of her life and he shook his blonde head furiously. "He'll kill her."

"Oh Cloud, what on earth makes you think something like that? Just because Sephiroth killed me, you think he'll do the same to Andi?" Aerith asked curiously.

"Because...I saw it...I saw it happen to her in a dream," he stated as he sat down next to the water on a severed tree that had been brought down during the battle with the remnants, and stared at the softly rippling, crystal blue surface. Cloud rested his elbows on his knees and buried his face in both of his hands, trying to drown out his emotions that threatened to take over again. Just saying the words 'kill her' was enough to send him over the edge again.

"Our worst fears become nightmares, Cloud, but it doesn't mean it has to become reality," the flower girl replied soothingly towards Cloud and he felt his hair be brushed back from his face.  "Do you really feel that what you saw in your subconscious was real?" Aerith asked, resting her hands on the swordsman's shoulders.

"I don't know...all I know is that I let you die, Aerith. After seeing what I did, I can't let her die too. I can go and finish Sephiroth off on my own this time. Andria doesn't need to be near him. She doesn't need to get hurt because of me. You know why Sephiroth is returning. He's always going to find a way to come back for me. Sephiroth has always had it out for me."

"Yes he has Cloud, but what you don't understand is that you can't do this alone. You can't fight him alone this time," Aerith spoke in barely above a whisper.

"I can too and I will. I will defeat him. I won't let him hurt the people I love and I'll protect Andria with my life. I failed to protect you and I won't fail to protect her," the blonde stated defiantly.

"Cloud, Andria's half Cetra. She's just like me. Her destiny is continue to protect the Planet and by that meaning she has a hand in defeating Sephiroth as well," Aerith explained calmly. "It's in her hands to defeat him just as much, if not more, than it is in yours."

Cloud buried his face even further in his hands, pressing his palms against his burning eyes. His head pounded even more furiously. The same, mako eyes with slits for pupils burned behind his eyelids.

"Tell me what you cherish most...give me the pleasure of taking it away," the voice sneered, echoing in his mind, and it was followed by the sinister laugh that came out of nowhere and made his head throb against his temples even harder.

"Cloud, I can't control what you will or will not do," the flower girl stated sadly, breaking the cold voice from his mind. "But I will tell you that Andi needs you now more than ever."

"And she'll have me as soon as I defeat Sephiroth. She can't fight him...she'll die," Cloud muttered into his hands. Why did all of this have to be so hard and confusing?

Aerith just sighed. "Dilly dally shilly shally," she stated softly. "She needs you now and you're being too stubborn. You're being too quick to protect her. Andria's strong, Cloud. A lot stronger than one would think. So, just think about what I said, okay?" her voice faded out.

Cloud continued to sit on the severed tree and lifted his face from his hands. He scanned the area that surrounded him and craned his head around to see if she were still there, but Aerith's presence had disappeared. He no longer felt her hands on his shoulders. Cloud could feel his eyelids growing heavy as he stared out at the waters. He reached down into his pocket and pulled out the green silk hair ribbon of Andria's. Cloud could feel unbidden, crystalline tears burning his eyes again as he stared down at the ribbon, and he brushed them harshly away with the back of his hand. The swordsman somehow knew that he was being stupid for wanting to find Sephiroth on his own, but there was no way in hell he was going to let Andria go out there and try to fight him too. The dream still continued to torment his mind and he could still see her being eliminated by him. Cloud was not going to let her die. He had to protect her. Nothing was going to harm her if he could help it.

Cloud pulled out a rolled up sleeping bag he kept tucked away in one of Fenrir's compartments and rolled it out across the grass amongst the trees. He would go ahead and stay here for the night. He had a long road ahead of him tomorrow to get to the Northern Crater and Cloud wasn't going to let anything or anyone stand in his way. Feeling a fresh, new sensation of strength and fearlessness wash over him, Cloud slipped inside of the sleeping bag. The blonde loved her. He truly did. No...he was in love with her and he realized this now. He took Andria's green hair ribbon, still clutched in his hand, tied it tightly around his wrist and tucked it underneath his glove. Cloud declared in his mind that right then and there that if he had to go to the ends of the earth to protect Andria, then he damn well would.

"Andria, I love you too much to let anything happen to you. I would die for you," he whispered to the stars before rolling onto his side and drifting off into sleep.

~*~*~*~*~

Andria and Mari were sitting up at the bar, later that night, sipping a mixed drink that Shera had so graciously put together for them, deep in conversation. Andria had changed into her new outfit and Mari had pulled some of Andria's hair up, tying it with one of her green hair ribbons and curling the ends. She had done that earlier when the girls had returned from their shopping trip to try and cheer her best friend up. Upon her return, nobody questioned Andria about Cloud. They had noticed her eyes were red and swollen. They could tell that Cetra had been crying. She had received hugs from everyone and words of care, asking if she was alright. The whole entire group wouldn't admit it, but they had sensed her sadness and inner anguish.

Andria just pulled on a brave face, smiled and told everyone that she would be okay. They all knew that the girl had just discovered the truth about herself and figured that this was why Andria was as broken up as she was. Shera had taken it upon herself to make Andria and Mari drinks, hoping that it would help Andria relax. As the two sat back, Mari continued chatting about how she wanted to do Andria's hair, when the door to the bar flung open rather harshly. The noise distracted Andria and Mari from their conversation. The two exchanged glances before they were interrupted by a egotistical, cocky male presence.

"So, do you plan on getting yourself shit-faced?" came a drawling voice from behind Andria. She turned around to come face to face with a red-headed Turk. He carried a sinister look on his narrow features and was tapping his electric rod against his thigh as though trying to be intimidating. It wasn't working. Andria just rolled her eyes and Mari's brilliant green ones narrowed and stared sharply.

"No we didn't plan on it Reno. Gods, you're such an ass," retorted the mage as she turned and stared daggers up at the lanky Turk, her green eyes darkened and flashed dangerously as they burned into Reno's blue-green ones.

"Hey, takes one to know one," Reno shot back and he and Rude exchanged short laughs. His eyes fell onto the Cetra who was mindlessly sipping her drink from a straw, doing her best to ignore the insults coming from the two men. She exchanged intermittent glances with Mari once more as the Turk advanced towards her. Reno leaned down on the counter and had his face inches from Andria's. She raised an eyebrow at him and pushed herself backwards from Reno. "So little lady. Where's your Cloudy boy tonight? Usually you two are inseparable." His breath blew back in her face and she could smell the whiskey already on it. He was obviously drunk.

Andria turned her head from Reno and closed her eyes painfully at the mention of his name. Once upon a time, they had been inseparable. Mari caught the look of hurt on her heart-sick friend's face and felt the anger burning in her chest. Didn't Reno have any compassion for others at all? Her lush green eyes blazed as the materia beneath her flesh growing dangerously in her hands.

"Just shut up about Cloud, Reno. It's none of your damn business," the mage growled, her teeth clenched.

"Ah, so Cloud's not around is he? Hmmm, well maybe I could take his place in your bed tonight?" Reno stated silkily, taking his finger and running it down Andria's cheek.

The Cetra averted her eyes in disgust. Andria was about to retaliate when she heard a rather loud yelp. Her eyes flew open, and she looked towards where the Turk had previously been standing. Reno was being pulled back from her with a terrified look on his face. Andria's eyes widened as she saw a familiar face and heard the familiar voice. A small, silver earring dangled from the left ear. A black gloved hand was wrapped around the Turk's ponytail.

"If you want to cause trouble then go do it elsewhere, but for now, leave my friend the hell alone," Tifa growled as she pulled Reno's head back next to her face. "She doesn't need scum like you," the martial artist added dangerously.

"Hey! Tifa! Long time no see!" bellowed Reno as he stared upwards towards Tifa's face which was glaring at him. She had his head drawn back as though the Turk were about to have this throat slit. "Where ya been! We've been missing your hot ass around here," the red-head stated drunkenly. "I missed watching the bar and seeing the first thing come out the door be your-," but the Reno replaced his sentence with another yelp of pain and his blue-green eyes widened. Tifa tightened her grasp on Reno's ponytail. The raven-haired woman drew his head back even further.

"Don't you even say it. You do and you'll be damn sorry you ever stepped one foot into my bar," she stated coolly and released her grip, giving Reno a hard shove, sending him flying across the room. He had grab a table as he tottered unsteadily on his feet to keep himself from nearly falling down. Rude just stood and stared at Reno and then at Tifa, his mouth slightly opened in surprise that the woman had such brutal strength. She tossed her dark hair over her shoulder and looked over at Mari and Andria.

Andria quickly turned away, feeling her face flushing hot. Tifa had came back to the bar and she had also removed Reno from advancing on her. Tifa had kept the blood-thirsty Turk from making a move on her. The Cetra had been beyond certain that Tifa hated her, but from the look Tifa had given her it didn't seem that way at all. She couldn't help but feel slightly befuddled.

"Tifa!" exclaimed Mari as she ran over to the martial artist and threw her arms around her neck. "Where in the hell have you been! You had us worried sick!" she stated angrily as she released her grip on her.

"I've had a lot of time to do some thinking. I owe some people an apology, I know," Tifa stated sheepishly, returning the hug to Mari. She went over next to Andria and sat down beside her. "I know I really owe you an apology, Andi," she began.

"M-me?" Andria asked, slightly stunned. She turned towards the woman and saw the sincerity in her dark eyes. "Why do you owe me an apology?"

Tifa sighed and sat down in seat next to the Cetra and lowered her head. "Because of the way I acted towards Cloud and your relationship. I should have realized that him being my best friend, he was growing feelings for you. While I do love Cloud, I know it'll never work between us. I've had a lot of time to myself to think and learn some things," the martial artist commented. She titled her head slightly and smiled at Andria. She reached her hand out and placed it on Andria's shoulder. "I don't hate you and I'm really sorry for doing what I did."

Tears were sparkling in Andria's emerald eyes as she looked up at the woman in front of her. She returned the smile to Tifa. There was so much that needed to be said, but the Cetra had no idea where to even begin. As much as she cared for Tifa, the martial artist had no idea who she was. Quite honestly, Andria was afraid that if she told her Tifa might start to resent her again. They were now on the verge of making up. Why did all of this have to happen now?

"It's okay, I'm just really glad you're alright, Tifa. I was really worried," Andria replied. "I...," she began as she sat down her drink and turned to walk away before either girl could see the tears that had broken free and were descending down her cheeks.

The Ancient felt a hand grab her around the cuff and she was turned around coming face to face with the dark haired woman again. Tifa was confused as to why Andria was running so soon. She looked down into the girl's face worriedly and then looked over at Mari who also had a sad look on her face. There was just so much that she didn't know and Tifa was very confused. She didn't understand why Andria was so sad, but she figured it had to of been because of her. Tifa felt instant sympathy for the girl at seeing her tears.

"Andi, what is it?" Tifa asked worriedly, holding the girl by the shoulders now. "What's wrong?"

Andria just shook her head. She didn't want to say stuff right here in the middle of the bar. Mari acknowledged that this was making the Cetra uncomfortable and she beckoned towards the stairs.
"How about we go upstairs and talk, that why nobody can hear what Andi has to say?" Mari suggested.

"Alright, I think that's a good idea and besides, I have so much to tell you girls!" Tifa exclaimed. "So let's go upstairs so we can talk."

She nodded her dark head and put an arm around Andria's slightly heaving shoulders. Mari stood on the other side of Andria and copied the gesture. The two women led Andria away from the bar and ascended up the staircase. The two girls entered the living quarters and sat down on the couch with Andria in between them. The Cetra just sat with her head hanging, her long bangs hiding her face from view. Tifa and Mari both moved her bangs back from her face to better see her. It wasn't fair to Tifa. Andria knew she needed to tell her everything. She felt so sorry for everything that had happened and she felt scared. How on earth would the Cetra tell Tifa that her best friend was gone because of her? Tifa had placed a hand on Andria's back and was rubbing small, comforting circles on it. She really did care for the Cetra and Andria could tell.

"Andi, I think we need to tell Tifa what's going on," came the mage's voice quietly in her ear.

Andria nodded her head in agreement. She turned towards Tifa and took her hands. "Tifa, there's something I have to tell you. Something really important, but...I want to hear all about what you have to tell us first," she stated, wiping her eyes and composing herself.

"Are you sure? Mine can wait if it's really important," Tifa stated warmly as she continued to rub the Ancient's back.

Andria nodded her head. "Of course! I want to know what kind of fabulous adventures Miss Tifa Lockhart has been on," she commented, forcing a smile on her face. "So what all have you been doing while you were gone?"

"Well, I just did some traveling and I ended back out in Mideel. They completely rebuilt the town! Well, while I was there I met someone," Tifa gushed as her cheeks turned rosy pink.

"Ooooh, you met someone did you?" questioned the mage playfully. "Was it a man or a woman?"

"A man of course!" laughed Tifa. She leaned back on the couch with a dreamy sigh. "His name is Dr. Aiden Meeks and we met at a small coffee shop in the newly built Mideel. He's got sandy brown hair, dark green eyes and tan skin," she gushed. "He's so handsome."

"Oooo a doctor," teased Andi. "So did he, how should I put this, give you a physical?" Her emerald eyes were sparkling with laughter. She was so happy to hear that Tifa had found somebody and she felt that right now, she just needed to push away her pain and focus on her friend's happiness.

"Oh he gave me a physical alright," Tifa replied slyly. "And I must say it was one hell of a check-up."

The statement caused all three of the girls to burst into laughter. "We want details!" urged Mari.

"Yeah! Tell us all about this tall, dark and handsome doctor!" Andria laughed and shoved Tifa playfully.

And so for the next hour, Andria and Mari sat and listened to Tifa carry on about Aiden. The girls talked about Tifa's trip around Gaia and squealed over all the stuff that Tifa had brought back with her from her trip. They laughed at how Tifa had told them that President Shinra's house in Costa del Sol was still for sale. During their conversation, Mari had gotten up to go and make the girls some hot tea. They needed something for their dry throats from all the talking and laughing that they had done. After Mari's swift departure to the kitchen, Tifa took it upon herself to thoroughly explain to Andria why she had left in the first place. Her face grew red as she lowered her head, not able to face the Cetra. Mari listened from the kitchen while she bustled about the counter, making the tea.

"I just thought that Cloud was...staying with you because you're so much like Aerith. I now realize that I was wrong and totally jealous of what you two were beginning to share. I realize and understand now that Cloud and I can never have what I wanted. We're too much alike. I guess that's why we're best friends, and I've learned to accept that. So, I just wanted to say that I'm really sorry Andi. I'm really sorry for saying what I did and I hope you can forgive me," Tifa stated. She turned towards the girl and took Andria's hands in both of hers. "I'm so sorry, Andi," Tifa told her, staring sincerely into the Cetra's sparkling green orbs. Tears were welling up the girl's dark eyes now. "Do you forgive me?"

Andria just shook her head. "Don't talk anymore, Teef. Don't apologize either, it's not needed. I'm just...I'm so happy for you," she whispered and the two women wrapped their arms around each other.

Andria and Tifa hugged tightly and sobbed. The Ancient felt some of the weight lift off of her shoulders at knowing that Tifa never hated her at all, that she was just wanting what she couldn't have. She also felt a tad guilty, but the Cetra knew that Tifa had moved on and she felt supreme happiness for her friend. The two girls broke apart, half sobbing and half laughing. They wiped their eyes and Tifa turned back towards the Cetra, a serious look in her eyes.

"Andi, I want you to be with Cloud. I saw the happiness that you brought him and he even told me himself that he liked being with you. I want nothing more than for Cloud to be happy, but I just didn't want to accept what he wanted at the time. I understand now. Besides, if I tried to have a romantic relationship with my best friend, I could end up losing him. I really don't want that to happen," Tifa added. "So please. Go and be with Cloud. I'm sure you guys have had plenty of time to get close, huh?" Tifa added with a playful nudge.

Andria just nodded her head and tried to brush away her tears, but they just kept coming. "I would be with Cloud, Tifa, but...there's just...there's so much I have to tell you."

"What is it you have to tell me?" Tifa asked, looking down at the girl worriedly. "It has to be something really serious." Tifa noticed the look in Andria's eyes and she also had noticed Cloud wasn't around. She figured she'd ask where Cloud was if Andria didn't have an explanation as to his whereabouts.

Andria nodded her head as Mari came back into the living room, holding a tray with three hot cups of tea on it. She handed each girl a cup and then proceeded to sit next to Andria.

"Teef, while you were gone, I found out a lot of stuff. I found out all about my past, I found out who I really am and why I'm so much like Aerith," the Cetra began apprehensively. Andria took a sip from her tea and looked down at her legs.

The martial artist's dark eyes widened as she stared at the girl. "What...what did you find out?" she asked in barely above a whisper. Yes, this was definitely something important...something serious.

Andria took a deep breath and looked over at Mari uncertainly. She was so afraid to tell Tifa the truth, but why? Then again here lately, since everything had happened she'd been more and more scared of saying the wrong thing and making the people she loved resent her. Mari gave the girl a look of encouragement and Andria took a deep breath.

"Tifa...I'm a Cetra."