Ancient (Final Fantasy VII)

The Ancients, also known as the Cetra, are a near-extinct race in Final Fantasy VII. They were the original inhabitants of the Planet, possessing a unique and deep connection to its Lifestream. Their primary purpose was to travel the Planet, ensuring its health and aiding in its growth, particularly at places where Mako energy was abundant. They considered themselves stewards of the Planet.

The Cetra were capable of directly communicating with the Planet's Lifestream, allowing them to access ancient knowledge, glimpse future events, and understand the Planet's will. This ability manifested in various forms, including the power to manipulate Materia and summon powerful entities.

Over time, the Ancients dwindled in number. Many theories exist within the game's lore about their decline, including natural attrition and conflicts with humans who sought to exploit the Planet's resources. A pivotal event in their history was the arrival of Jenova, an extraterrestrial lifeform which posed as a Cetra and decimated their civilization. Jenova sought to destroy the Planet, and the Cetra fought to contain it.

The last known surviving Cetra at the start of Final Fantasy VII is Aerith Gainsborough. Her ancestry and her ability to communicate with the Planet make her a target for the Shinra Electric Power Company, who believe she holds the key to finding the "Promised Land," a legendary location of abundant Mako energy. The Shinra aim to exploit this location for their own profit. Aerith's journey and fate are central to the game's narrative, highlighting the importance of preserving the Planet's natural balance against the destructive forces of industrialization and unchecked ambition.