InsaneJournal

“It’s done.”

Aerith smiled at Zack and nodded agreement. “It’s done.”

Zack looked behind them one more time, toward the church where Cloud and the others celebrated – but the church was empty now, moonlight and sunlight dancing through it in turns.

Time passed, as it would, and still Jenova did not stir. Sephiroth did not recreate himself. The world went on.

Zack felt the Lifestream tugging at him, swirling his memories like water. He fought the current, but either it was growing stronger or his strength was failing. “Aerith, not like this,” he whispered. “Goddess, please…”

Aerith took hold of his hand. “This way.”

He looked where she’d gestured.

A brilliant figure of gleaming gold beckoned them to approach. “You called to me.”

Zack dared to look at the being’s face. He stood open-mouthed for several moments before collecting himself enough to speak. “I have tried so hard to be there for her,” he whispered, squeezing Aerith’s hand. “But the Lifestream is stronger. I don’t want to leave her alone.”

“She is not alone,” the being replied.

“Please,” Aerith said. “Let us stay together.”

The being regarded them closely. “You have both served me well. The planet owes you a kindness, children. Name your wish, and it shall be done.”

Zack looked into Aerith’s eyes, memorizing their color all over again. “I want our lives back,” he whispered for Aerith’s approval.

But the girl frowned softly. “The planet still needs us, Zack. Without the Cetra, its defenses are low. And Jenova isn’t the only danger. Can’t we stay in the Lifestream, without becoming lost to it?”

Zack dropped to his knees and held both Aerith’s hands in his. “I would have married you. I still would. I want to live my life with you, Aerith, for as long as you’ll have me. And if it’s our fate to guard the planet, I’ll do that too. I just don’t want to be lost to you, ever.”

Aerith bowed her head until her nose touched Zack’s hand. “I want that too.”

Unseen, Minerva smiled. “Let it be done.”

* * * * *

A soft cry broke the heavy quiet, followed by a sigh.

“You’re beautiful.”

She smiled in her way and ducked her head. “I’m exhausted.”

He nuzzled her cheek. “Are you happy?”

“Yes, husband, I am.” She relaxed against his strength, resting for a moment.

Soft, insistent touches brought another sigh.

“I’ll get you something to eat,” he said, rising to give her some privacy.

Instead of answering, she turned her attention to the two babes demanding milk. The boy looked just like his father, spiky mane and all. She wondered if the girl would grow out of her green eyes, or grow into them. An odd color, but pleasant, like leaves.

Though her husband would never say it, Deneh firmly believed that Seto would have been proud.