Zack was a First Class SOLDIER. Aerith understood this well, knew very well what he was capable of, it didn't slip her mind. She also understood this about Landel's: everyone trapped in it was weaker than normal, and even if he had a sword now, the things that roamed these halls at night would not go down easy.

She was caught in her fear and indecision, hands hovering at her mouth and eyes wide. How could she help him? Suddenly, she was pulled, pulled away, Zelos was urging her into the room Zack had opened. For them.

"No," she didn't have the strength to break away from Zelos, but tugged her small frame with him back toward the door-frame, desperation seeping into her tone. "No!"

"Zack! Please, don't fight it alone!"

The monster-woman was holding her hand out to him, and though the gesture wasn't clearly hostile, it sent chills down her spine.