Cid Kramer



Cid Kramer is the headmaster of Balamb Garden in Final Fantasy VIII. He is the overseer of school operations, including SeeD, the school's mercenary force, started by Cid and his wife, Edea.

Cid married Edea, a caring woman who raised orphaned children in her orphanage. However, one day, the Sorceress Ultimecia appeared from out of nowhere, attempting to pass on her Sorceress abilities to a girl called Ellone. However, Edea refused to let her do it, and as the result of a compromise, Ultimecia passed on her powers to Edea instead. Cid became her protective knight, but had to leave his wife's side, as she could be dangerous.

Before, and decidedly after Squall becomes a SeeD, he sees the talent in him, and gives him his first assignment, which is to aid the resistance group Forest Owls in their struggle to free Timber from the tyrannic nation Galbadia. Before Squall leaves, he gives him a Magical Lamp that can allow Squall to fight Diablos, and obtain him as a Guardian Force if defeated.

Later on, Balamb Garden is in turmoil. The students of the Garden have split into two groups; one that supports Cid, and one who supports the Garden Master, NORG. It turns out NORG, who was the financial backer for the Garden, has decided to take control over the Garden, back from Cid. Since Squall and the others' mission to assassinate the Sorceress failed, the Galbadians have launched missiles at Balamb Garden. Cid is in despair, and after Squall and his friends defeat NORG, he decides to leave the Garden and leave Squall in charge as commander.

When Ultimecia releases her hold on Edea, and she returns to her old self, Cid lives with Edea in the ruined orphanage.

Many fans debate whether Cid Kramer is a true Cid, as the Cid character that makes its appearances in games, always have a flair for machinery or connection with an airship. The only connection that can be seen is when Balamb Garden becomes mobile. However, it does not become a mode of aerial transportation.