It starts in Wall Market

Aerith knew what the plan was. She'd pose as a potential bride for Don Corneo and sneak into his mansion that way so she could help Cloud rescue Tifa. They'd gone this far to get Madam M's approval so she could help.

"Alright, take it off," Madam M said.

That was part of it. She'd have to change her dress to something that better suited a bridal candidate. It was easier to plan for doing that, than it was to undress for a stranger in the back of a Wall Market massage parlor. The dress Madam M had gotten for her was hung up on the wall though, a deep silky red number that Aerith had to admit she did want to at least try on.

It wasn't her normal style, but she was always open to new experiences.

Aerith took off her jacket first, then unbuttoned her pink dress. Madam M tapped her fan impatiently as the flower girl stripped.

"And the rest," Madam M said.

Aerith stood up, wearing only matching red underwear. Madam M cut her off.

"What do you think bride means?" she said impatiently. "If you're chosen and you're wearing something so... pedestrian beneath your dress, I'll be a laughing stock. I do not want to be a laughing stock."

Aerith blushed, but had to admit that made sense. Even if she wasn't planning to let Corneo go anywhere near that far, she couldn't play her hand too soon. While Madam M still tapped her fan, Aerith took the rest off, piling her underwear on top of her regular clothes and her staff.

Madam M looked her up and down.

"Good," Madam M said. "Sit down. I'll have to fit the dress."

Aerith nodded. She took her seat, crossing her arms, only for a bell to ring. Madam M gave an exasperated sigh.

"One moment," she said. "Wait here. I'll be right back."

Madam M walked out of the room to see whoever had arrived at the parlor's front desk. Aerith waited, fidgeting a little. After a few seconds she couldn't help but get up, as Madam M didn't return, nearing the door to the room. She wasn't going to leave the room, not as she was, but she did want to know who was out there or how long it would be.

Aerith opened the door a crack and peeked through.