( It's likely better for Cid that they refocus on things that aren't his daughter or his legacy. But it isn't better for her heart, of knowing that upon their return Jill will be alone again. Stronger now, full of the warmth that she'd felt over the years since her freedom. All of them who have struggled, survived, died -- they are what will keep her from retreating into ice. Their love burns through her even now.

But that does not mean it does not hurt. Her head falls, her eyes unfocused. )

Clive. ( Here, Clive might promise to return to her no matter what it takes, but Jill has been a realist since she was twelve. She will hope, she will pray, but she will not delude herself into thinking that he will live and expect him to do so. ) Joshua, and Prince Dion, too. Among others. ( Her shoulders bend, pulling into herself. Jill does not cry anymore; there is no point, no need to when the sun shines. Cid, too, would likely not know how to handle her crying any more than he would Clive. )

But Ultima lies defeated.

( She exhales, finally raising her head to meet Cid's eyes again. )

Freedom, true freedom, is ours at last.