Much Needed Good News

Barret, the proverbial bull in a china shop, through open the doors to Aerith's home. Elmyra was washing dishes, surprised at the Black giant barging into her home.

"Where's Marlene!? Is she here!?" Barret barked. Tifa rubbed his hip gently.

"Daddy," she murmured, calming him. He looked chastened.

"Sorry. I'm Barret. Marlene's my little girl. Marlene—she's got short hair. She's cute as a button, with the heart of an angel. She was wearing…"

"Our daughter is wearing a pink dress today," Tifa finished. Elmyra chuckled.

"You're lucky she favors her mother. She's sleeping upstairs," Elmyra said. Barret started to go quickly up the stairs, but then proceeded with caution. Tifa followed him, a small smile playing on her lips. Cloud looked at Elmyra, who sighed, stretching as she sat at the kitchen table.

"Shinra has my daughter now," Elmyra said in a weary, matter-of-fact tone.

"I'm sorry."

"It's not your fault. It was only a matter of time before she ended up back there."

"Because she's an Ancient. That it?"

"So she told you about that? She must trust you all a great deal..." For the first time, she looked at Cloud with respect.