o8;(text/audio)

[onegil]

( TEXT to Regent: )

I know we haven't really spoken before, my name is Aerith Gainsborough. I thought you would be best to ask; Is there a way for civilians to go outside the wall?

( end TEXT. )

[The audio feed switches on and Aerith takes a slow breath.]Hm, from what I understand some people haven't slept very well. Maybe... it's just

Comments

action.

[onegil]

[She's quiet for the most part, content with just walking beside him and stopping every once in a while to inspect possible future-flower beds. It's important that it be in the perfect spot after all.

But finally she slows, a hand reaching out to brush his arm.] Cloud?

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[onegil]

[Withdraws as soon as he moves, hands disappearing behind her back. She doesn't want to make him uncomfortable, after all.]

You wanted to ask me something, right?

action.

[onegil]

[Why yes, these are her only favorite shoes. But she's going to just lean forward to catch his eye again.]

Did you change your mind?

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[onegil]

[Head tilt. There's a second of concern before she turns her back on him.]

Is it easier now?

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[onegil]

[Tifa...

At first there's no answer. It's not because she doesn't have one, but she's thinking back on it. Tifa had come back first, and then Cloud was released from the clinic. 'It wasn't the right time' was a cop out, so Aerith gives a small sigh and lowers her gaze to the ground.]

... What would you have done if I had told you?

action.

[onegil]

[Even though she doesn't look at him, she still smiles.]

Hm... It would have meant more if you'd seen her yourself. Just letting somebody tell you the person you care about is back as if nothing happened... it's not as easy or comforting as it sounds sometimes. But...

[At some point she had turned back around, a hand reaching for his but hesitating and returning back to her side.] I'm sorry.

action.

[onegil]

[She looks up with a start, searching that gaze before she relaxes and her fingers slip comfortably between his. He had every right to be upset with her, she knows that. Maybe it's selfish to be relieved, but that doesn't excuse what would have been right.

Her lips part to speak, but she seems to find trouble with the words. In fact, it might be better not to say anything at all, but on the other hand... At times, even she doesn't know what's best.]