I really don't think that Cid should have to die, even though this is probably my least favorite Cid (too rubber duck-y looking). VI has more than enough death in it for me.

I had mentioned in another thread about having each character learn some exclusive skill/obtain an exclusive bonus from the Espers rather than everybody getting the same abilities. Considering the size of the cast IDK if that would be possible from a technical standpoint but it would be interesting nonetheless.