"Cloud where have you been? You've been gone all night?" Tifa asked.

I look at her.

"I was doing business." I say.

"Business? What kind of business?" She asked.

We we're in my cabin. I was staying there. Nothing fancy but it's good enough. Aerith came in.

"There you are! I've been looking all over for you! Where have you been?" Aerith asked.

"Around. I was taking care of business." I answered.

"Are you alright? You look tired." Aerith said.

"I'm fine." I say.

I walk out of the room. Aerith and Tifa followed me to the Bar. I opened the door. I see Barret looking kind of sad. He had his hand over his face. He also drank half a bottle which is never a good sign.

"You okay?" Tifa asked.

"We're running out of money. I don't know how much longer I can keep this place up. If I don't, they'll take my baby Marlene away." Barret said.

Tifa gasped. Aerith put her hands over her mouth. Barret looked at me.

"Sorry solider boy no more raises." He said.

Tifa put her hand on his shoulder.

"We'll figure something out." She said.

"We won't let them take Marlene away." Aerith said.

I hear a caw. I turn. I see the raven. I have an idea that will get this place back up and running and save Marlene. But boy will I hate it.