DC: I don't own GW (or anything affiliated with them, though I wish I did) All other characters are mine and created from the mind of insanity, mainly me. All resemblances to any characters of other fics are purely coincidental. Otherwise, don't sue me, all I have is my laptop.
*BTW, since it's a new part, the day's will now be starting by day one! It will also happen for other parts as well.*
Day 1-Peacecraft Estate-(6:29 a.m.)
Shin Kin'Youbi opened her eyes just as the blinds to the guest room were rudely opened. She squinted and hissed, and shut her eyes tightly. "Must you do that?"
"I'm sorry, Miss Shin, but breakfast is served." said the butler, Pagan. "Would you like to eat at a later time?"
"Preferably. When I'm not being blinded."
"Certainly, Miss Shin."
Yume Okinawa groaned on the bed across from Shin's. She sat up and poised an arm out in front of her. "I'm going to kill someone if they don't close the blinds."
"Not a morning person either, Miss Yume?" Pagan inquired.
"No." Yume growled.
"Very well." Pagan promptly closed the blinds. "I'll call on you again once I've awakened everyone else."
There were two groans which prompted Pagan to leave. He walked softly out of the guest room and into the hallway of the pilots. For almost six months, the pilots had been living on the Peacecraft estate by Relena's insistence. Seeing as they had no home and Space was getting a serious `makeover' with new management and new contracts, she thought it was her duty to provide them with a home. Of course to the dismay of Heero Yuy, the ex-Gundam Pilots' leader.
Pagan knocked on the first door. It was Quatre's. He was usually awake at this hour, happily drinking his tea and reading the morning newspaper. He was much more pleasant than the others. Especially Chang Wufei.
The door opened, revealing the wide-awake Quatre. "Morning Pagan. Breakfast?"
"Ready, Master Quatre." said Pagan. He personally liked Quatre. He gave in to more worthwhile conversation. He turned next to Trowa's room across the hallway. He was usually awake at this hour, too. He knocked softly, waiting to hear anything that came from the other side of the door. "I'm up."
Nodding, Pagan moved to the next door which held Duo. He was almost afraid of what would happen. He knocked once. Twice. Then a third time. Finally he heard a loud thump, an even louder groan, and a yawn. "I'm awake!"
He wouldn't dare wake up Chang Wufei so he turned to the last door in the hall and the biggest room. He treaded carefully, knowing very well that he shouldn't disrespect a feared and moody pilot. He knocked softly and heard the voice of a female. He leaned closer, familiarizing it with Kirin Shido's voice.
He cleared his voice. "Breakfast is served."
The door creaked open and Pagan stared back at Kirin. "Morning."
"Good morning Miss Kirin." He bowed respectfully. "Would you be joining us for breakfast?"
"Yes, of course."
"And Master Heero?" He asked, trying to catch a glimpse into the room.
Kirin simply nodded her head. "Yes."
Pagan nodded and walked away. Now he had to go back and wake up Shin and Yume.
Kirin closed the door. She turned and stared at Heero. He was sitting up, a little dazed. Kirin had given him a passionate version of `rude awakening.' She smiled and sat on the bed beside him. "Have a nice sleep?"
"Yes. But I'm still dreaming." He replied.
Kirin laughed. The sound reverberated throughout the room. She leaned on Heero but pulled back. "What's in your pocket?"
Heero almost forgot about the necklace. He took the box out of his jacket pocket. "I was going to give it to you last night. I saw it in a window and it reminded me of what you said."
"What did I say?" Kirin asked, softly.
Heero opened the box and displayed it to Kirin. The star called out to her. It was the size of a quarter and almost half an inch thick. The chain was silver and long. She gasped and raised her hand to touch it. "It's beautiful."
"Something along the lines of a fading star. It represents both Life and Death. A new beginning."
"I...don't know what to say." She was speechless. No one had given her such a gift with so much meaning.
Heero took it out of the box and beckoned for Kirin to turn around. He put the necklace around her neck. It settled just in between the space between her breasts. It sparkled with every light. She turned and hugged him. "No one has ever given me a gift before! Thank you, Heero."
"I'm glad you like it."
Kirin could only smile. She was going to cherish it forever. This was the only piece of jewelry she ever owned. She wasn't about to let it go unnoticed. She'd pay him back. Later.
Heero stood and began removing his jacket. "If you want, I have some extra clothes in my closet. I don't know if you'd want to wear them or not..."
"Whatever is fine." Kirin replied. She touched the star diamond. She felt like a little kid, being spoiled with love. She went into the closet and began sifting through the clothes.
Heero had his back turned. He removed the bow tie and the dress shirt and found his green tank top. He quickly put that on and saw his blue jeans in the bathroom. "I'll be back."
Kirin nodded her head and finally found one article of clothing. It was a white shirt that seemed to look oversized to her. She shrugged and hung it over her arm. She began looking again and found a pair of white shorts. It looked feminine.
"Those are Relena's." Heero said, seeing the baffled look on Kirin's face. "The maids do the laundry and they put everything together. I must have taken that by mistake."
"At least its white." Kirin replied. She held up the clothes. "I can wear it until I get my own clothes, right?"
"Keep them." Heero assure her. He ran a hand through his brown hair once, a lock of hair falling between his eyes. He sat on the bed realized during Kirin's search, she had neatly put them back. Just as well. He would've done the same after she had left. He couldn't help it, he was always like that.
Kirin was in the bathroom for a short while. That surprised Heero, somewhat. He knew that men didn't take long in the bathroom. However, Wufei and Duo seemed to think otherwise. What was so special about hair? He respected Trowa. He didn't care how he did his hair or why he did it, he just knew that it was own style. Let him do what he wanted.
Kirin came out of the bathroom wearing the ridiculously oversized shirt and the shorts that were hidden underneath. She was barefoot and she looked sheepishly at Heero. "I feel like a bum."
Heero eyed the star diamond and shook his head. "I would never consider you a bum." He held out an arm which she took gratefully. They exited his room and made their way down the hall. Attendants were scurrying out of his way. A dark and moody Heero was scary. A happy and energetic Heero was even scarier.
They made it into the breakfast hall where Shin and Yume had just joined them. They were still on their evening gowns and gawked at Kirin's clothes. "Where did you get those clothes?"
"They're Heero's." Kirin replied. He offered her a chair and sat beside her.
A servant entered the breakfast room with two steaming plates of food. There were strips of bacon, sausage, pancakes, and some hash browns. They set it before Kirin and Heero and awaited any specific order.
"Coffee." Heero replied.
Kirin looked at the other steaming mugs of coffee that sat before everyone except Quatre. He was sipping on some tea. She could tell by the design of the cup. It was smaller and there weren't any creamers or sugars near him. She resigned. "Coffee."
The servants left and the ensuing part of breakfast began.
Breakfast was about to get boring until Duo had to open his mouth. Which, unfortunately, was still massed with food. "Those pirates last night didn't seem so bad."
"They stole from us you nitwit." Wufei grumped. He had come in at that moment, with coffee in hand and was standing at the doorway. "They managed to injure half the officers. I don't know how you came up with the conclusion that those pirate `didn't seem so bad.'"
Duo swallowed, the indentation of solid food moving down his pale throat. "Well, I've been thinking..."
"Someone help us." Wufei mumbled.
"Maybe they were just a scapegoat. I mean, all they did was still from us, right? Besides the pirates fighting the soldiers, no one got hurt, did they?" He looked at the other faces at the table. "Did they?"
"What's your point, Duo?" Trowa asked.
"What I'm saying is...what if someone else is behind it and they just came in at the wrong time? Maybe they're being played, too?" He waited for some comment from Wufei. There was a tense silence.
Kirin looked at the faces of the five pilots. She eyed Shin and Yume who stared dumfounded at the braided wonder. This was what he was thinking about last night?
Heero noticed Kirin's reaction. He wondered if she'd do bodily harm to him if he said anything that would break her cover? His and Kirin's coffee arrived which robbed him of his intentions. He decided to tell them when he got the okay from Kirin.
Relena Peacecraft entered at that moment, pushed in by Pagan. She seemed better than yesterday. She greeted everyone and almost choked when she saw Heero and Kirin sitting together. Heero seemed to be leaning over Kirin while she was playing with a beautiful star-diamond. She had seen Kirin last night, wearing an atrocious gown last night. Now she was dressed in a shirt in which she knew belonged to Heero. Had they slept together last night?
She cleared her throat and directed her question to Kirin. "Where were you sleeping last night, Kirin?"
Startled, Kirin looked up and turned to meet Relena's blatant challenge for Heero's affections. Only, Heero was moreover on Kirin's side than Relena's. "Oh, in a bed."
Shaking her head, Relena knew Kirin was avoiding the question. "I mean who's room were you in?"
"I don't mean to be rude, Miss Relena, but...is it any business of yours?"
"This is my house." She insisted.
"True. But do you usually put your nose in other people's business? That's invasion of privacy. Punishable by law."
Relena reeled back. She shut her mouth because she knew Kirin was right. There she had been arguing that she wasn't being respected enough by the council and that her privacy was being abused. She also argued that what she did was her business! Now, in her own home, the same argument was being presented to her. The only reason why Heero and the other pilots stayed there with her was so she could watch them. She had never seriously thought before that she was interfering with Heero's privacy. Not until Kirin had mentioned it.
Utensils clattered onto an empty plate. Kirin stood. "I'm afraid we've outstayed our welcome. We should be going now."
Shin and Yume stood, too. Though it was early in the morning, they still looked fresh and beautiful like last night. "Thanks for breakfast."
Heero stood. "I'll walk you out."
Heero put an affectionate arm around Kirin's shoulders. He glanced at Relena to confirm his action. There would never be a him and her. He had a `girlfriend' now; Kirin, one of the most unusual looking female Relena had ever seen. She sucked in a breath and simply turned her head away. Duo snickered slightly as Quatre sipped his tea. Heero was being possessive?
The moment Kirin reach outside and away from prying ears, she let out an aggravated sigh. "Some nerve!"
"Now you see what I go through." Heero mumbled.
Kirin gazed sympathetically at him. "You know...I can get a safe house with the funds that I have. You can move in with me."
"Hey! What about us?" Shin asked, elbowing Kirin hard in the side. Yume nodded. "We're under your responsibility, too."
"We're not in ONI anymore. At least, I'm not... You guys are free to go." Kirin replied.
"Still..." said Yume. "You're stuck with us. We know what you're planning to do."
"Oh. That." Kirin leaned on Heero for support. "Well, you guys can come, too. I'll find a place far enough for me to finish the repairs but close enough to get the necessary parts."
"Parts?" Heero repeated.
Kirin nodded sweetly. "I haven't lived in Space all my life to not know how to pilot a Gundam."
A slow realization hit Heero. "You can pilot a Gundam."
"WE, Heero! Us! Yes, all of US can pilot Gundams." Yume corrected him.
Heero faltered. He knew Noin could pilot a mobile suit, but never before had he seen a female pilot a Gundam. "A Gundam."
Kirin chuckled softly. "Don't be so enthusiastic, Heero! Is it that surprising that I can pilot that type of machinery?"
"You I'm not surprised." Heero answered truthfully. "Them...yes, I'm surprised."
"Hey!" Shin protested. "What is that suppose to mean?"
"Nothing." Kirin said quickly, trying to avoid any confrontation. "Well, to clarify anything Heero, we do pilot Gundams. They were damaged when entering the atmosphere due to a slight malfunction. Apparently it wasn't to be fixed until my mission was complete. Now I'll have to suffice with Earth parts."
"I can help you with that. I have an open line with one of the Colonies. I'm sure they can ship us some parts. Could I see the Gundam?" Heero asked, retaining his voice from any excitement.
"Certainly-"
"Us?" Yume repeated. "Since when was it an `us'?"
"Yume." Kirin snapped. "Heero is an expert! Of course we could trust him!"
"Fine. Whatever..." The words surprised Kirin more than anyone. In that one instant, she sounded much like an unfeeling Heero. She shook her head. Yume was an orphan as was Shin and herself. Even if she wanted to do a DNA test, it wouldn't help out. Unless...no. It couldn't be.
Kirin tucked the thought in the back of her mind. She'd think of it later on. She kissed Heero on the cheek. "We better be going. I'm going to look on the market for a house then move all our stuff there. Once we're settled, you and the others could move in."
"You're serious?" Shin asked. "Us and a houseful of guys?"
"And why not?" Kirin argued. "We did that in ONI. Twenty guys to us three! We could survive with five."
"Yeah but..." Shin seemed to be blushing.
"We'll all be getting our own rooms, Shin." Kirin said lowly. "You perverse little thing you!"
Shin snapped her head up and glared, unsuccessfully, at Kirin. "I...you...you're so...!"
A limo pulled up, obviously waiting for their departure. The driver inside was also an officer of ONI. He had witnessed everything. "I hope you don't think you can get away with anything, Shido."
Kirin's entire attitude and demeanor changed. She pulled away from Heero's arms and leaned in dangerously close to the driver. "How are you going to tell anyone if you're dead...?"
The driver paled as quickly as Kirin put a strong hand around his neck. Sweat beaded off his forehead. He was pulled closer to her and she spoke in a tone that would scare even the most grounded person. He nodded slowly, his breath being caught off by the sheer restricting motion of her hand. She blew into his face softly then released him. "Drive us to the hotel."
"Are you sure, Kirin?" Shin asked cautiously. "He might drive us off the cliff!"
"Oh, he won't do that." Kirin assured her.
"I'll make sure of that." Said Heero. "I'm coming, too."
"Heero..."
"He's mighty possessive of you, Kirin." Said Yume. She snickered, ignoring Heero's trademark glare. "Might as well let him come. Since, of course, he's being so insistent on following you like a little puppy."
Kirin put her arms around Heero as he tried to step up to the challenge. "Heero, drop it. You can come with us. We'll leave them at the hotel and you and I will look for a place, ok? Then I'll show you the Gundams. All right?"
"Fine." Heero replied.
"Good. Come on, everyone, into the vehicle!" Kirin said, opening the door. Shin and Yume got in first, followed by Heero and then Kirin. "Relax everyone. If he does try to drive us down the cliff, I'll make sure he goes down with us."
Peacecraft Estate-(noon)
Quatre Winner was ecstatic. He was phoned by Heero that he had found a place large enough to fit all five pilots and three girls. He admitted he appreciated Relena's hospitality, but the estate was cramped, even with those seven rooms. He had two suitcases full of clothes, one more and he'd be complete. He relayed the message to everyone else and they had all readily accepted the move. Relena, however, had left the estate just as Quatre received the call. He'd leave a message with the servants, he didn't want to seem rude, but moving to a place he could call his own...it was a chance of a lifetime!
Quatre gazed about the pinkish room. Every room was a pale pink color, so it would be a change to have something else to look at. From Heero's description, the house was by the beach, there was an expanded lawn, four car-garage, a gate that just separated the beach to the perimeter of the yard, a swimming pool with an artificial waterfall, a connecting Jacuzzi, and a basement that seemed to have been made for something...LARGE. It was Kirin's choice.
Quatre and two other servants walked down the stairs with their suitcases. Duo had three large sacks as did Trowa and Wufei. He looked a little embarrassed. "It seems I'm the only one who had suitcases."
"Nah." said Duo. "We found some in the attic, but they were pink. Don't want to be too conspicuous do we?"
"Of course not." Quatre replied. "Are they here yet?"
"Not yet." said Wufei who stood by the door. "I'm eager to see this house. It'll be a good change for us. We need the fresh air."
Trowa simply nodded. "Finally some privacy. I wasn't really used to the servants, though I do appreciate them."
"I'm gonna miss the food!" Duo whined. "All the cooked and prepared food!"
"I'm a pretty good cook." Quatre said quietly. "I've cooked for the Maguinac Corp. once or twice before. They didn't seem to hate it."
"We'll just have to ask Kirin about that." said Trowa, trying to avoid any argument between Wufei and Duo. Nonetheless, whatever Duo mentioned, it always sparked an argument with Wufei. He sighed. That was one thing he wished Wufei would leave behind...his pointless arguments with Duo.
A car horn beeped outside. It came to a screeching halt and a female's voice arose. "You're certainly happy about the move!"
There came a monotone reply that no one could quite understand. The female voice laughed and more silence ensued. Finally the door opened revealing Heero and Kirin. Her arms were around his waist and she was smiling. "Hi! Just put your stuff in the trunk! Heero's gonna pack his things really quick and I'm gonna show you guys something very special!"
"This house you picked, Shido..." Wufei started to say.
"Think of it as a safe house." She said. "No one will know where we are unless you tell them."
"That's what I wanted to hear." Wufei agreed. "I owe you one."
Kirin just smiled. Heero disappeared up the stairs, a small smiling playing on his lips. During their trip to the estate, Kirin kept teasing him about the magnificent Gundams she had. He was intent on seeing them. He needed to know what they looked like.
Kirin helped Quatre with his luggage as the others simply put their sacks in the trunk. She eyed the sacks then Quatre's luggage. She decided not to ask seeing as it would become a big deal if she pushed the matter. They all piled into the sports utility vehicle and waited as Heero got his belongings. After five minutes Heero simply appeared holding a single black bag. He tossed it into the trunk and took his place in the passengers side. "So, are you going to show us now?"
"Yes, of course. You've been patient enough." Kirin replied.
"What are we going to see?" Duo asked, pushing in between Quatre and Wufei.
"Would you sit down, Maxwell?" Wufei growled.
Trowa was stuck sitting with Duo so he was holding most of the braided wonder's weight. "Sit down, Duo! Do you want Kirin to get a ticket?"
Duo managed to settle into his seat, grumping. He had gotten no answer from Kirin, just a mysterious smile.
Kirin drove on the outset of an abandoned road, driving at a reasonable and relaxing speed. The windows were down, the radio playing, and the overall peace and quiet was a first for them all.
"Are we going to the house?" Quatre asked, seeing as the scenery changed from the tree massed country side to the barren rocky hillside. "This doesn't look like its by the beach."
"I want to show you all something first." Kirin replied. She glanced at Heero who stared straight ahead. It was as if he blinked once, he'd miss something. "Relax, Heero...it's not for another twenty minutes."
"You hid it well."
"I had to." Kirin admitted. "You don't know how many people are such snoopers. They can never keep their noses out of other people's business..." The last words trailed off as she gave a small laugh.
"What?" Heero asked, trying to get himself to relax.
"I guess you do know." She said.
"Know what?"
"How people can't keep out of other people's business."
"Hn."
Kirin heard a tune on the radio and turned it up. That inclined her to drive faster, so she pushed the speed a little higher. At least thirty over the limit on a deserted road.
"Should you be driving this fast, Kirin?" Quatre asked worriedly.
A rock song was playing on the radio which seemed to suit the mood. Duo was head-banging beside Trowa and trying to get him to do the same thing. Wufei was tuning them all out. Obviously he enjoyed the peace and quiet. Heero was amazed by Kirin's change of mood. He had to remind himself that all women had mood swings as well as attitude changes. He decided to let it go. No use in trying to calm her down. Besides, she was happy.
"It's fine, Quatre!" Kirin called over the music. She was going well over seventy, and still managed to sing along with the song. her hair floated around her face as she looked at Heero. He stared at her like this was a new side to her. She laughed loudly, making the car swerve slightly from left to right.
He would have to get used to all these aspects of her if he were to actually love her. And he was willing to learn, too. Just because she hid all her sorrows behind a facade such as the one she was displaying, it would be better for him to know her moods than to just anticipate if she was upset with him.
Duo was bouncing in the backseat, making the vehicle bounce with his movements. He was singing, badly, to the song, though he didn't even know the words. He sang the chorus with half interest while he mumbled the rest of the song.
The radio and the vehicle came to a gradual slow. Kirin turned a corner around a strangely figured hill. She parked near a small post which said detour. She jumped out and walked slowly forwards, her hands in front of her as if she were blind. "It's around here somewhere..."
Heero came out of the passenger's seat and came around, watching Kirin warily. He would've helped, but he was sure Kirin wanted to show him her `surprise' on her own accord.
"Found it!" Kirin called.
Heero hadn't realized it, but she had suddenly disappeared. "Kirin? Kirin!"
"Don't panic, Heero! I'm fine! Stay right where you are!" Where was the voice coming from?
Heero allowed himself to relax. A little. As long as he couldn't see Kirin, he'd worry.
The ground began to shake. No, it seemed to tremble. Something massive and powerful was coming to life and the earth seemed to feel it. A small sandstorm picked up, clouding everyone's vision for a few moments. A loud whirring sounded from all around, a faint boom followed. Finally the sandstorm cleared and there were three shadows that loomed before the five pilots.
"It's..." Duo had to shield his eyes from the sun. "It's a..."
"A Gundam." Quatre whispered.
Trowa was speechless. Wufei looked unimpressed but secretly he was in awe. "Gundams. That's not a surprise."
Three Gundams, almost similar in height. The one to their left was a suit that looked somewhat similar to Duo's Death Scythe Hell and Trowa's Heavy Arms. The wings, taken from Death Scythe, were dark blue on the outside and a lighter shade on the inside. The body was black with white trimmings with silver outlining. The head was another cross from Death Scythe and Heavy Arms. It was either one or the other. There was a long pole that stuck out from its back. It extended just a few feet from its knee. That, too, resembled Death Scythe's weapon.
"This blue one is called Morning Star. Shin pilots this one. Looks familiar doesn't it? I left it up to her to configure the model, I just put it together. It's got the ZERO system installed with active cloak. She handles all the information data and input."
The one to their far right was a slight replica of Epyon. The colors, which were strictly purple and gold, had a more metallic look to it. Minus the heat rod, there was something that looked like a large yo-yo that connected to the hip, which was visible in the back even when they were viewing it from the front. There was a pole that stuck onto its left arm, possibly another weapon, and lastly a large cannon that rested on its right shoulder.
"This one is piloted by Yume. It's name is Dragon Slayer. What she lacks in size it gains in power and skill. The reason why she has that funny looking thing is...well...a secret. You'll have to figure it out in battle what it does."
At last was the Gundam in the middle. Larger than the two, with massive wings and a specialized cannon on its right arm, it glittered gold and silver. Silver seemed to be a popular color of the three. Attached to its left shoulder was the hilt of the Gundams' beam saber. Sticking up from its back was the handle of a large buster rifle. There were several plates that decorated the shoulder blades; a shield was on its left arm and another that covered the back, providing protection from all sides. It was a literal cross from Wing Zero and Wing Gundam. A spectacle all on its own, it brought back a lot of memories.
"This is my Gundam...Archangel. A combination of both Gundams...but don't tell Shin or Yume that."
The cockpit opened revealing Kirin. She poked her head out of the space and looked down at the five pilots. "Surprise! Wanna see the cockpit?"
Heero was very intrigued at this point. Archangel got onto a knee. Kirin simply jumped out and landed gracefully on her feet. She walked like an exuberant child. She wrapped her arms around Heero's neck and pulled him forward. "Come on! I want to see your reaction!"
Heero was dragged, willingly, towards the machine. With Kirin and the pilots around him, Heero made a critical decision. "It's well made."
"Of course it is!" Kirin replied. "Mixed with Gundanium, Titanium, and Neo-Titanium alloy! Virtually indestructible!"
Heero only peered in. He knew for a fact that he wouldn't want someone snooping around his Gundam. When he had one.
"Go on! Try it!" Kirin pushed him inside and he landed roughly on his back. "Sorry, Heero."
Heero adjusted himself and pulled up the console. It resembled his old Gundam, button arrangement, style, and fit. He looked at Kirin who was beaming at him. "Like it?"
Heero felt as if it had been longer than five years. But the feeling of piloting a Gundam never left him. His hands gripped the new hand controls that guided the Gundams movement. "This just controls movement?"
"Oh, these Gundams have different modes. Space mode, Earth mode, and Battle mode. Space mode is a lot easier to pilot since, of course, there's no gravity. The buttons by your middle finger are the thrusters. The buttons by your thumbs are missiles, the triggers are the gattling guns. That button by your right hand is for the wings. In Space that's practically used for gliding. The wings act like a bird's wings."
"Earth mode is more difficult?"
"Absolutely. Only the buttons where your middle fingers rest are the `Jump' buttons. Depending how hard your push or how long you hold it, it will make the Gundam jump. Press it hard for quick jumps, hold it down for long jumps."
"Will the thrusters support the weight?" Heero asked, gazing at the other pilots. They were speechless and in awe.
"It should. Took me three weeks to perfect it. There are some humongous shocks on the back part of the legs. There's some padding in the feet so it won't be so bumpy and so loud. At last is the Battle mode. On your right hand the trigger is for the beam arrow. Like jump, quick trigger is for short bursts that travel at least fifty feet or less. Hold it longer and when it can't hold anymore, it'll release itself. Good for at least two hundred feet. Those really cause a ruckus. The middle button is for retrieving and putting back the bustle rifle or the beam saber. The thumb button is to ignite or fire. To set off the electro-shield plates, punch the button right by you, the one below the wing button, those are for the shields. For your left hand, the middle is for your back and left arm shield. The thumb button is for the missiles and the trigger is the gattling guns. OH! And for some real serious damage, press this special white button on the console." Kirin leaned down and
pointed to a fairly large white button which was very hard to miss.
"What does that do?"
"I call it the weapons special. You'll have to battle to find out." Kirin smirked.
Heero took another long look at the controls. He leaned up. "This has been very informative, Kirin."
"You like?" Kirin asked hopeful.
Heero replied in a way that surprised her. "This has been very informative, Kirin."
Kirin almost fell into the cockpit with Heero if not for Quatre's quick reflexes. She smiled at him shakily then propped herself back onto solid ground. "Well, we should all be going. The Gundams are too big to be piloted now so we'll come back later tonight and retrieve them."
Heero casually got out from the cockpit and stood overlooking the ocean. How many times had he gotten out of Wing Zero and stood looking over the horizon? He couldn't remember at the moment which meant it was a rarity. He leaned over Kirin and stared at her.
"Did I do something wrong?" Kirin asked, a little nervous about Heero's intent gaze.
"Nothing. You did everything perfectly."
A little confused, Kirin just wrapped her arms around his neck. "Let's go home, ok? You and the guys can just stay there and relax! Yume, Shin, and me will pilots the Gundams, ok?"
"Whatever." Heero helped Kirin to her feet and they made their way back to the all-purpose vehicle. Kirin stopped and turned. She cupped her hands to her mouth. "Archangel, Dragon Slayer, Morning Star...Stealth mode!"
The Gundams slowly began to disappear from sight. All they could see now was the ocean and the horizon. Kirin smiled as she turned back to the five pilots. "Voice activated. Pretty handy, huh? I knew you'd guys be speechless."
Safe House (1:41 p.m.)
Shin Kin'Youbi dragged the heavy blue suitcase up the stairs and into the hallway. Kirin warned her that if she placed dibs on any of the rooms, she'd literally kick her out and be the last to pick whatever room that was left. And Kirin didn't usually make idle threats. Shin just decided to peer into the rooms, just a glimpse. She'd have to be patient while Kirin was joyriding with the pilots in their all-purpose vehicle. Kirin also promised she'd get them all vehicles so no one would be stuck driving everyone everywhere. Kirin had a plan for everything, didn't she?
"We're back!"
Shin turned on her heel and hopped down the stairs. Kirin was at the doorway, carrying a bag of groceries. She smiled at Shin. "Can you help the guys? We raided a warehouse and passed by a car mart. There's so much things to do when you buy a house!"
Shin could only nod her head. Kirin had no experience with living with people older than her. She usually made all the decisions back in ONI and the soldiers and officers usually looked up to her. Now she had to step down and let her elders take care of everything. So to speak.
Yume Okinawa appeared from the kitchen, clutching her stomach. "Food..."
Kirin handed Yume the groceries. "Food's in there. Before you eat anything, help the guys out, first. I bought enough to feed three colonies."
Yume went back into the kitchen. Kirin waited for a moment and called for Yume. "I said later, Yume!"
"But Kirin!"
Kirin turned and almost crashed into Duo. "Put those in the kitchen. It's on your left."
"Sure thing, boss-lady."
"Boss-lady?" Kirin repeated.
"I'd like to consider it my pet name for you."
"Pet name?" Kirin squeaked.
"You're not calling her that." came a monotone voice.
Duo's face defaulted. "Why not? It suits her perfectly!"
Heero gave Duo a glare. Un-phased, Duo continued to protest. "She's the lady of the house, isn't she? I mean, its HER house and she's been ordering everyone around so she's bossy-"
"I'm not BOSSY!" Kirin cried. She buried her face into her hands. "Everyone says that! So I like to take control every once in a while, but I don't demand everyone listen to me! I've been a General for six years! I can't help it!"
Heero sympathized with her. He knew how it was like being looked at for answers and to assume the Leader position.
"She's not bossy, Duo." He said. "If I hear you calling her that, I'll kill you."
Duo looked from Kirin to Heero. "Jeez...you two ARE perfect for each other...you just gang up on me whenever you guys want to..."
Heero simply pushed Duo towards the kitchen with his elbow. "Go into the kitchen. Take these, too." He piled on two more bags onto Duo's arms.
"Hey! I can't carry all this!" Duo whined.
"Builds strength and endurance." Heero replied. He looked at Kirin who now had her arms crossed. She was staring off into space, ignoring him and Duo. He didn't like being ignored. He came behind Kirin and leaned close enough to hear her mumble something about not being understood and trying hard not to be bossy. "It can't be helped."
Kirin spun around almost hitting Heero in the face. She looked ready to strangle him then proceeded to hug him. "You're right. I can't change the past so I have to look to the future." She buried her head into the nape of his neck. "You're warm. Are you sick?"
"I..." He tried to remember the last time he had gotten...sick. No, it wasn't that. He wasn't sick. He was actually happy as to how close Kirin was to him. She was very close to him. He was...blushing? "I'm not sick."
"You sure?" Kirin stood back and put a hand on his forehead. She then put a hand on his neck. "You're warm. Unless..."
"Unless...?" Heero murmured. He suddenly jumped forward, pushing Kirin against the nearest wall.
"Sorry!" cried Quatre. "I was trying to put down the Welcome Mat!"
"No harm done." Kirin said, nervously, seeing as how close Heero was to her. He had practically landed into her arms and chest area, almost as if they were...
"What's the hold up?" cried Wufei. "I'm carrying four bags of groceries! Would you keep moving, Winner?"
"I'm sorry, Wufei!" Quatre didn't see Heero and Kirin on the wall and proceeded to go into the kitchen.
Wufei came in behind Quatre and glanced at a seemingly flushed Heero. He eyed Kirin then shrugged. It was none of his business to know what they were doing. He walked towards the kitchen where a fit of swears began.
Trowa was at the doorway, carrying bags and silently walking into the kitchen. He wasn't going to ask what Heero and Kirin were doing in the hallway.
Shin came back holding only a bag. "The rest of them are too heavy for me to carry." She stared for a moment at Heero and Kirin who were still in their little `pose.' Heero turned his head slightly, hoping that his death glare was enough incentive enough for her not to ask. If Kirin's skin wasn't so pale they would probably notice she was blushing furiously. She was hoping this wouldn't get off to a bad start with her housemates.
Heero finally straightened himself up and apologized to Kirin. She laughed quietly. "What's to be sorry for?"
"I didn't intend to..."
"I know you didn't, it was an accident. Accidents happen." said Kirin.
"But you're only..."
"I'm eighteen. And you're twenty-one. I know there's a difference." Kirin stared hard at the floor. "Hasn't stopped anyone before..."
Heero took a step back. "You've been-"
Kirin put a finger to his lips. "Now is not the time to talk about that, Heero."
He nodded his head. Some things had to be put off, left to a memory, or just forgotten. But he wanted to know who violated his Kirin. He was going to find the men who did it and kill them. For her.
She smiled then jumped into the kitchen where everyone was confused where all the food was suppose to be put. Except for Yume, Shin, and Duo. They were already having lunch with whatever food that was edible.
"All right everyone, we're going to pick rooms."
Shin perked up. "I know what room I want!"
"So do I." said Yume.
Duo just shrugged. "I don't care."
"Don't put me with him." Wufei warned.
"I don't really care which room I have." said Trowa.
"I'd like to see the rooms first." Quatre said timidly.
"Hn."
Kirin crossed her arms. "Well, there's one room down here. All the other rooms are upstairs."
"I'll take the one down here." Heero offered.
"You sure?" Kirin asked. She was sort of hoping Heero would have a room by her. But it seemed just as well. If there was a certain occasion where they slept in one bed, the others wouldn't complain of the noises. "All right."
"I know what room Kirin is in." said Yume. "She's taking the corner room. It's already been planned, subconsciously."
"Of course, or else we wouldn't be the-"
"We're not the Triad anymore, guys." said Kirin. She reached for the nearest bag of groceries. "Since everything is supposedly pre-ordained, you guys go up and put your stuff into your rooms. I'll fix up everything here. We'll order some food for our first night here ok? Am I forgetting anything?"
"We need plates, eating utensils, furniture for us to eat on, sleep on, sit on...a television, phone..."
Kirin stared as Quatre went through an entire list of things for a new home. Trowa nudged her gently. "He has twenty-nine sisters. Living with us i(s Heaven compared to what he's used to."
"I see. Thank you, Trowa." The vein on Kirin's head disappeared with that little nugget of information. She patted Quatre on the back. "Quatre, let's take one thing at a time ok?"
"Sure." He looked a little flush, but otherwise still excited.
"All right, people, move out. Oh, Shin, Yume...after you two are done settling in, we're going back for the Gundams."
Shin and Yume groaned as they followed the other pilots out of the kitchen. Kirin stood alone in the kitchen. She crossed her arms. "With Shin and Yume here...and that Duo. This food's only gonna last us a few days!"
*BTW, since it's a new part, the day's will now be starting by day one! It will also happen for other parts as well.*
Day 1-Peacecraft Estate-(6:29 a.m.)
Shin Kin'Youbi opened her eyes just as the blinds to the guest room were rudely opened. She squinted and hissed, and shut her eyes tightly. "Must you do that?"
"I'm sorry, Miss Shin, but breakfast is served." said the butler, Pagan. "Would you like to eat at a later time?"
"Preferably. When I'm not being blinded."
"Certainly, Miss Shin."
Yume Okinawa groaned on the bed across from Shin's. She sat up and poised an arm out in front of her. "I'm going to kill someone if they don't close the blinds."
"Not a morning person either, Miss Yume?" Pagan inquired.
"No." Yume growled.
"Very well." Pagan promptly closed the blinds. "I'll call on you again once I've awakened everyone else."
There were two groans which prompted Pagan to leave. He walked softly out of the guest room and into the hallway of the pilots. For almost six months, the pilots had been living on the Peacecraft estate by Relena's insistence. Seeing as they had no home and Space was getting a serious `makeover' with new management and new contracts, she thought it was her duty to provide them with a home. Of course to the dismay of Heero Yuy, the ex-Gundam Pilots' leader.
Pagan knocked on the first door. It was Quatre's. He was usually awake at this hour, happily drinking his tea and reading the morning newspaper. He was much more pleasant than the others. Especially Chang Wufei.
The door opened, revealing the wide-awake Quatre. "Morning Pagan. Breakfast?"
"Ready, Master Quatre." said Pagan. He personally liked Quatre. He gave in to more worthwhile conversation. He turned next to Trowa's room across the hallway. He was usually awake at this hour, too. He knocked softly, waiting to hear anything that came from the other side of the door. "I'm up."
Nodding, Pagan moved to the next door which held Duo. He was almost afraid of what would happen. He knocked once. Twice. Then a third time. Finally he heard a loud thump, an even louder groan, and a yawn. "I'm awake!"
He wouldn't dare wake up Chang Wufei so he turned to the last door in the hall and the biggest room. He treaded carefully, knowing very well that he shouldn't disrespect a feared and moody pilot. He knocked softly and heard the voice of a female. He leaned closer, familiarizing it with Kirin Shido's voice.
He cleared his voice. "Breakfast is served."
The door creaked open and Pagan stared back at Kirin. "Morning."
"Good morning Miss Kirin." He bowed respectfully. "Would you be joining us for breakfast?"
"Yes, of course."
"And Master Heero?" He asked, trying to catch a glimpse into the room.
Kirin simply nodded her head. "Yes."
Pagan nodded and walked away. Now he had to go back and wake up Shin and Yume.
Kirin closed the door. She turned and stared at Heero. He was sitting up, a little dazed. Kirin had given him a passionate version of `rude awakening.' She smiled and sat on the bed beside him. "Have a nice sleep?"
"Yes. But I'm still dreaming." He replied.
Kirin laughed. The sound reverberated throughout the room. She leaned on Heero but pulled back. "What's in your pocket?"
Heero almost forgot about the necklace. He took the box out of his jacket pocket. "I was going to give it to you last night. I saw it in a window and it reminded me of what you said."
"What did I say?" Kirin asked, softly.
Heero opened the box and displayed it to Kirin. The star called out to her. It was the size of a quarter and almost half an inch thick. The chain was silver and long. She gasped and raised her hand to touch it. "It's beautiful."
"Something along the lines of a fading star. It represents both Life and Death. A new beginning."
"I...don't know what to say." She was speechless. No one had given her such a gift with so much meaning.
Heero took it out of the box and beckoned for Kirin to turn around. He put the necklace around her neck. It settled just in between the space between her breasts. It sparkled with every light. She turned and hugged him. "No one has ever given me a gift before! Thank you, Heero."
"I'm glad you like it."
Kirin could only smile. She was going to cherish it forever. This was the only piece of jewelry she ever owned. She wasn't about to let it go unnoticed. She'd pay him back. Later.
Heero stood and began removing his jacket. "If you want, I have some extra clothes in my closet. I don't know if you'd want to wear them or not..."
"Whatever is fine." Kirin replied. She touched the star diamond. She felt like a little kid, being spoiled with love. She went into the closet and began sifting through the clothes.
Heero had his back turned. He removed the bow tie and the dress shirt and found his green tank top. He quickly put that on and saw his blue jeans in the bathroom. "I'll be back."
Kirin nodded her head and finally found one article of clothing. It was a white shirt that seemed to look oversized to her. She shrugged and hung it over her arm. She began looking again and found a pair of white shorts. It looked feminine.
"Those are Relena's." Heero said, seeing the baffled look on Kirin's face. "The maids do the laundry and they put everything together. I must have taken that by mistake."
"At least its white." Kirin replied. She held up the clothes. "I can wear it until I get my own clothes, right?"
"Keep them." Heero assure her. He ran a hand through his brown hair once, a lock of hair falling between his eyes. He sat on the bed realized during Kirin's search, she had neatly put them back. Just as well. He would've done the same after she had left. He couldn't help it, he was always like that.
Kirin was in the bathroom for a short while. That surprised Heero, somewhat. He knew that men didn't take long in the bathroom. However, Wufei and Duo seemed to think otherwise. What was so special about hair? He respected Trowa. He didn't care how he did his hair or why he did it, he just knew that it was own style. Let him do what he wanted.
Kirin came out of the bathroom wearing the ridiculously oversized shirt and the shorts that were hidden underneath. She was barefoot and she looked sheepishly at Heero. "I feel like a bum."
Heero eyed the star diamond and shook his head. "I would never consider you a bum." He held out an arm which she took gratefully. They exited his room and made their way down the hall. Attendants were scurrying out of his way. A dark and moody Heero was scary. A happy and energetic Heero was even scarier.
They made it into the breakfast hall where Shin and Yume had just joined them. They were still on their evening gowns and gawked at Kirin's clothes. "Where did you get those clothes?"
"They're Heero's." Kirin replied. He offered her a chair and sat beside her.
A servant entered the breakfast room with two steaming plates of food. There were strips of bacon, sausage, pancakes, and some hash browns. They set it before Kirin and Heero and awaited any specific order.
"Coffee." Heero replied.
Kirin looked at the other steaming mugs of coffee that sat before everyone except Quatre. He was sipping on some tea. She could tell by the design of the cup. It was smaller and there weren't any creamers or sugars near him. She resigned. "Coffee."
The servants left and the ensuing part of breakfast began.
Breakfast was about to get boring until Duo had to open his mouth. Which, unfortunately, was still massed with food. "Those pirates last night didn't seem so bad."
"They stole from us you nitwit." Wufei grumped. He had come in at that moment, with coffee in hand and was standing at the doorway. "They managed to injure half the officers. I don't know how you came up with the conclusion that those pirate `didn't seem so bad.'"
Duo swallowed, the indentation of solid food moving down his pale throat. "Well, I've been thinking..."
"Someone help us." Wufei mumbled.
"Maybe they were just a scapegoat. I mean, all they did was still from us, right? Besides the pirates fighting the soldiers, no one got hurt, did they?" He looked at the other faces at the table. "Did they?"
"What's your point, Duo?" Trowa asked.
"What I'm saying is...what if someone else is behind it and they just came in at the wrong time? Maybe they're being played, too?" He waited for some comment from Wufei. There was a tense silence.
Kirin looked at the faces of the five pilots. She eyed Shin and Yume who stared dumfounded at the braided wonder. This was what he was thinking about last night?
Heero noticed Kirin's reaction. He wondered if she'd do bodily harm to him if he said anything that would break her cover? His and Kirin's coffee arrived which robbed him of his intentions. He decided to tell them when he got the okay from Kirin.
Relena Peacecraft entered at that moment, pushed in by Pagan. She seemed better than yesterday. She greeted everyone and almost choked when she saw Heero and Kirin sitting together. Heero seemed to be leaning over Kirin while she was playing with a beautiful star-diamond. She had seen Kirin last night, wearing an atrocious gown last night. Now she was dressed in a shirt in which she knew belonged to Heero. Had they slept together last night?
She cleared her throat and directed her question to Kirin. "Where were you sleeping last night, Kirin?"
Startled, Kirin looked up and turned to meet Relena's blatant challenge for Heero's affections. Only, Heero was moreover on Kirin's side than Relena's. "Oh, in a bed."
Shaking her head, Relena knew Kirin was avoiding the question. "I mean who's room were you in?"
"I don't mean to be rude, Miss Relena, but...is it any business of yours?"
"This is my house." She insisted.
"True. But do you usually put your nose in other people's business? That's invasion of privacy. Punishable by law."
Relena reeled back. She shut her mouth because she knew Kirin was right. There she had been arguing that she wasn't being respected enough by the council and that her privacy was being abused. She also argued that what she did was her business! Now, in her own home, the same argument was being presented to her. The only reason why Heero and the other pilots stayed there with her was so she could watch them. She had never seriously thought before that she was interfering with Heero's privacy. Not until Kirin had mentioned it.
Utensils clattered onto an empty plate. Kirin stood. "I'm afraid we've outstayed our welcome. We should be going now."
Shin and Yume stood, too. Though it was early in the morning, they still looked fresh and beautiful like last night. "Thanks for breakfast."
Heero stood. "I'll walk you out."
Heero put an affectionate arm around Kirin's shoulders. He glanced at Relena to confirm his action. There would never be a him and her. He had a `girlfriend' now; Kirin, one of the most unusual looking female Relena had ever seen. She sucked in a breath and simply turned her head away. Duo snickered slightly as Quatre sipped his tea. Heero was being possessive?
The moment Kirin reach outside and away from prying ears, she let out an aggravated sigh. "Some nerve!"
"Now you see what I go through." Heero mumbled.
Kirin gazed sympathetically at him. "You know...I can get a safe house with the funds that I have. You can move in with me."
"Hey! What about us?" Shin asked, elbowing Kirin hard in the side. Yume nodded. "We're under your responsibility, too."
"We're not in ONI anymore. At least, I'm not... You guys are free to go." Kirin replied.
"Still..." said Yume. "You're stuck with us. We know what you're planning to do."
"Oh. That." Kirin leaned on Heero for support. "Well, you guys can come, too. I'll find a place far enough for me to finish the repairs but close enough to get the necessary parts."
"Parts?" Heero repeated.
Kirin nodded sweetly. "I haven't lived in Space all my life to not know how to pilot a Gundam."
A slow realization hit Heero. "You can pilot a Gundam."
"WE, Heero! Us! Yes, all of US can pilot Gundams." Yume corrected him.
Heero faltered. He knew Noin could pilot a mobile suit, but never before had he seen a female pilot a Gundam. "A Gundam."
Kirin chuckled softly. "Don't be so enthusiastic, Heero! Is it that surprising that I can pilot that type of machinery?"
"You I'm not surprised." Heero answered truthfully. "Them...yes, I'm surprised."
"Hey!" Shin protested. "What is that suppose to mean?"
"Nothing." Kirin said quickly, trying to avoid any confrontation. "Well, to clarify anything Heero, we do pilot Gundams. They were damaged when entering the atmosphere due to a slight malfunction. Apparently it wasn't to be fixed until my mission was complete. Now I'll have to suffice with Earth parts."
"I can help you with that. I have an open line with one of the Colonies. I'm sure they can ship us some parts. Could I see the Gundam?" Heero asked, retaining his voice from any excitement.
"Certainly-"
"Us?" Yume repeated. "Since when was it an `us'?"
"Yume." Kirin snapped. "Heero is an expert! Of course we could trust him!"
"Fine. Whatever..." The words surprised Kirin more than anyone. In that one instant, she sounded much like an unfeeling Heero. She shook her head. Yume was an orphan as was Shin and herself. Even if she wanted to do a DNA test, it wouldn't help out. Unless...no. It couldn't be.
Kirin tucked the thought in the back of her mind. She'd think of it later on. She kissed Heero on the cheek. "We better be going. I'm going to look on the market for a house then move all our stuff there. Once we're settled, you and the others could move in."
"You're serious?" Shin asked. "Us and a houseful of guys?"
"And why not?" Kirin argued. "We did that in ONI. Twenty guys to us three! We could survive with five."
"Yeah but..." Shin seemed to be blushing.
"We'll all be getting our own rooms, Shin." Kirin said lowly. "You perverse little thing you!"
Shin snapped her head up and glared, unsuccessfully, at Kirin. "I...you...you're so...!"
A limo pulled up, obviously waiting for their departure. The driver inside was also an officer of ONI. He had witnessed everything. "I hope you don't think you can get away with anything, Shido."
Kirin's entire attitude and demeanor changed. She pulled away from Heero's arms and leaned in dangerously close to the driver. "How are you going to tell anyone if you're dead...?"
The driver paled as quickly as Kirin put a strong hand around his neck. Sweat beaded off his forehead. He was pulled closer to her and she spoke in a tone that would scare even the most grounded person. He nodded slowly, his breath being caught off by the sheer restricting motion of her hand. She blew into his face softly then released him. "Drive us to the hotel."
"Are you sure, Kirin?" Shin asked cautiously. "He might drive us off the cliff!"
"Oh, he won't do that." Kirin assured her.
"I'll make sure of that." Said Heero. "I'm coming, too."
"Heero..."
"He's mighty possessive of you, Kirin." Said Yume. She snickered, ignoring Heero's trademark glare. "Might as well let him come. Since, of course, he's being so insistent on following you like a little puppy."
Kirin put her arms around Heero as he tried to step up to the challenge. "Heero, drop it. You can come with us. We'll leave them at the hotel and you and I will look for a place, ok? Then I'll show you the Gundams. All right?"
"Fine." Heero replied.
"Good. Come on, everyone, into the vehicle!" Kirin said, opening the door. Shin and Yume got in first, followed by Heero and then Kirin. "Relax everyone. If he does try to drive us down the cliff, I'll make sure he goes down with us."
Peacecraft Estate-(noon)
Quatre Winner was ecstatic. He was phoned by Heero that he had found a place large enough to fit all five pilots and three girls. He admitted he appreciated Relena's hospitality, but the estate was cramped, even with those seven rooms. He had two suitcases full of clothes, one more and he'd be complete. He relayed the message to everyone else and they had all readily accepted the move. Relena, however, had left the estate just as Quatre received the call. He'd leave a message with the servants, he didn't want to seem rude, but moving to a place he could call his own...it was a chance of a lifetime!
Quatre gazed about the pinkish room. Every room was a pale pink color, so it would be a change to have something else to look at. From Heero's description, the house was by the beach, there was an expanded lawn, four car-garage, a gate that just separated the beach to the perimeter of the yard, a swimming pool with an artificial waterfall, a connecting Jacuzzi, and a basement that seemed to have been made for something...LARGE. It was Kirin's choice.
Quatre and two other servants walked down the stairs with their suitcases. Duo had three large sacks as did Trowa and Wufei. He looked a little embarrassed. "It seems I'm the only one who had suitcases."
"Nah." said Duo. "We found some in the attic, but they were pink. Don't want to be too conspicuous do we?"
"Of course not." Quatre replied. "Are they here yet?"
"Not yet." said Wufei who stood by the door. "I'm eager to see this house. It'll be a good change for us. We need the fresh air."
Trowa simply nodded. "Finally some privacy. I wasn't really used to the servants, though I do appreciate them."
"I'm gonna miss the food!" Duo whined. "All the cooked and prepared food!"
"I'm a pretty good cook." Quatre said quietly. "I've cooked for the Maguinac Corp. once or twice before. They didn't seem to hate it."
"We'll just have to ask Kirin about that." said Trowa, trying to avoid any argument between Wufei and Duo. Nonetheless, whatever Duo mentioned, it always sparked an argument with Wufei. He sighed. That was one thing he wished Wufei would leave behind...his pointless arguments with Duo.
A car horn beeped outside. It came to a screeching halt and a female's voice arose. "You're certainly happy about the move!"
There came a monotone reply that no one could quite understand. The female voice laughed and more silence ensued. Finally the door opened revealing Heero and Kirin. Her arms were around his waist and she was smiling. "Hi! Just put your stuff in the trunk! Heero's gonna pack his things really quick and I'm gonna show you guys something very special!"
"This house you picked, Shido..." Wufei started to say.
"Think of it as a safe house." She said. "No one will know where we are unless you tell them."
"That's what I wanted to hear." Wufei agreed. "I owe you one."
Kirin just smiled. Heero disappeared up the stairs, a small smiling playing on his lips. During their trip to the estate, Kirin kept teasing him about the magnificent Gundams she had. He was intent on seeing them. He needed to know what they looked like.
Kirin helped Quatre with his luggage as the others simply put their sacks in the trunk. She eyed the sacks then Quatre's luggage. She decided not to ask seeing as it would become a big deal if she pushed the matter. They all piled into the sports utility vehicle and waited as Heero got his belongings. After five minutes Heero simply appeared holding a single black bag. He tossed it into the trunk and took his place in the passengers side. "So, are you going to show us now?"
"Yes, of course. You've been patient enough." Kirin replied.
"What are we going to see?" Duo asked, pushing in between Quatre and Wufei.
"Would you sit down, Maxwell?" Wufei growled.
Trowa was stuck sitting with Duo so he was holding most of the braided wonder's weight. "Sit down, Duo! Do you want Kirin to get a ticket?"
Duo managed to settle into his seat, grumping. He had gotten no answer from Kirin, just a mysterious smile.
Kirin drove on the outset of an abandoned road, driving at a reasonable and relaxing speed. The windows were down, the radio playing, and the overall peace and quiet was a first for them all.
"Are we going to the house?" Quatre asked, seeing as the scenery changed from the tree massed country side to the barren rocky hillside. "This doesn't look like its by the beach."
"I want to show you all something first." Kirin replied. She glanced at Heero who stared straight ahead. It was as if he blinked once, he'd miss something. "Relax, Heero...it's not for another twenty minutes."
"You hid it well."
"I had to." Kirin admitted. "You don't know how many people are such snoopers. They can never keep their noses out of other people's business..." The last words trailed off as she gave a small laugh.
"What?" Heero asked, trying to get himself to relax.
"I guess you do know." She said.
"Know what?"
"How people can't keep out of other people's business."
"Hn."
Kirin heard a tune on the radio and turned it up. That inclined her to drive faster, so she pushed the speed a little higher. At least thirty over the limit on a deserted road.
"Should you be driving this fast, Kirin?" Quatre asked worriedly.
A rock song was playing on the radio which seemed to suit the mood. Duo was head-banging beside Trowa and trying to get him to do the same thing. Wufei was tuning them all out. Obviously he enjoyed the peace and quiet. Heero was amazed by Kirin's change of mood. He had to remind himself that all women had mood swings as well as attitude changes. He decided to let it go. No use in trying to calm her down. Besides, she was happy.
"It's fine, Quatre!" Kirin called over the music. She was going well over seventy, and still managed to sing along with the song. her hair floated around her face as she looked at Heero. He stared at her like this was a new side to her. She laughed loudly, making the car swerve slightly from left to right.
He would have to get used to all these aspects of her if he were to actually love her. And he was willing to learn, too. Just because she hid all her sorrows behind a facade such as the one she was displaying, it would be better for him to know her moods than to just anticipate if she was upset with him.
Duo was bouncing in the backseat, making the vehicle bounce with his movements. He was singing, badly, to the song, though he didn't even know the words. He sang the chorus with half interest while he mumbled the rest of the song.
The radio and the vehicle came to a gradual slow. Kirin turned a corner around a strangely figured hill. She parked near a small post which said detour. She jumped out and walked slowly forwards, her hands in front of her as if she were blind. "It's around here somewhere..."
Heero came out of the passenger's seat and came around, watching Kirin warily. He would've helped, but he was sure Kirin wanted to show him her `surprise' on her own accord.
"Found it!" Kirin called.
Heero hadn't realized it, but she had suddenly disappeared. "Kirin? Kirin!"
"Don't panic, Heero! I'm fine! Stay right where you are!" Where was the voice coming from?
Heero allowed himself to relax. A little. As long as he couldn't see Kirin, he'd worry.
The ground began to shake. No, it seemed to tremble. Something massive and powerful was coming to life and the earth seemed to feel it. A small sandstorm picked up, clouding everyone's vision for a few moments. A loud whirring sounded from all around, a faint boom followed. Finally the sandstorm cleared and there were three shadows that loomed before the five pilots.
"It's..." Duo had to shield his eyes from the sun. "It's a..."
"A Gundam." Quatre whispered.
Trowa was speechless. Wufei looked unimpressed but secretly he was in awe. "Gundams. That's not a surprise."
Three Gundams, almost similar in height. The one to their left was a suit that looked somewhat similar to Duo's Death Scythe Hell and Trowa's Heavy Arms. The wings, taken from Death Scythe, were dark blue on the outside and a lighter shade on the inside. The body was black with white trimmings with silver outlining. The head was another cross from Death Scythe and Heavy Arms. It was either one or the other. There was a long pole that stuck out from its back. It extended just a few feet from its knee. That, too, resembled Death Scythe's weapon.
"This blue one is called Morning Star. Shin pilots this one. Looks familiar doesn't it? I left it up to her to configure the model, I just put it together. It's got the ZERO system installed with active cloak. She handles all the information data and input."
The one to their far right was a slight replica of Epyon. The colors, which were strictly purple and gold, had a more metallic look to it. Minus the heat rod, there was something that looked like a large yo-yo that connected to the hip, which was visible in the back even when they were viewing it from the front. There was a pole that stuck onto its left arm, possibly another weapon, and lastly a large cannon that rested on its right shoulder.
"This one is piloted by Yume. It's name is Dragon Slayer. What she lacks in size it gains in power and skill. The reason why she has that funny looking thing is...well...a secret. You'll have to figure it out in battle what it does."
At last was the Gundam in the middle. Larger than the two, with massive wings and a specialized cannon on its right arm, it glittered gold and silver. Silver seemed to be a popular color of the three. Attached to its left shoulder was the hilt of the Gundams' beam saber. Sticking up from its back was the handle of a large buster rifle. There were several plates that decorated the shoulder blades; a shield was on its left arm and another that covered the back, providing protection from all sides. It was a literal cross from Wing Zero and Wing Gundam. A spectacle all on its own, it brought back a lot of memories.
"This is my Gundam...Archangel. A combination of both Gundams...but don't tell Shin or Yume that."
The cockpit opened revealing Kirin. She poked her head out of the space and looked down at the five pilots. "Surprise! Wanna see the cockpit?"
Heero was very intrigued at this point. Archangel got onto a knee. Kirin simply jumped out and landed gracefully on her feet. She walked like an exuberant child. She wrapped her arms around Heero's neck and pulled him forward. "Come on! I want to see your reaction!"
Heero was dragged, willingly, towards the machine. With Kirin and the pilots around him, Heero made a critical decision. "It's well made."
"Of course it is!" Kirin replied. "Mixed with Gundanium, Titanium, and Neo-Titanium alloy! Virtually indestructible!"
Heero only peered in. He knew for a fact that he wouldn't want someone snooping around his Gundam. When he had one.
"Go on! Try it!" Kirin pushed him inside and he landed roughly on his back. "Sorry, Heero."
Heero adjusted himself and pulled up the console. It resembled his old Gundam, button arrangement, style, and fit. He looked at Kirin who was beaming at him. "Like it?"
Heero felt as if it had been longer than five years. But the feeling of piloting a Gundam never left him. His hands gripped the new hand controls that guided the Gundams movement. "This just controls movement?"
"Oh, these Gundams have different modes. Space mode, Earth mode, and Battle mode. Space mode is a lot easier to pilot since, of course, there's no gravity. The buttons by your middle finger are the thrusters. The buttons by your thumbs are missiles, the triggers are the gattling guns. That button by your right hand is for the wings. In Space that's practically used for gliding. The wings act like a bird's wings."
"Earth mode is more difficult?"
"Absolutely. Only the buttons where your middle fingers rest are the `Jump' buttons. Depending how hard your push or how long you hold it, it will make the Gundam jump. Press it hard for quick jumps, hold it down for long jumps."
"Will the thrusters support the weight?" Heero asked, gazing at the other pilots. They were speechless and in awe.
"It should. Took me three weeks to perfect it. There are some humongous shocks on the back part of the legs. There's some padding in the feet so it won't be so bumpy and so loud. At last is the Battle mode. On your right hand the trigger is for the beam arrow. Like jump, quick trigger is for short bursts that travel at least fifty feet or less. Hold it longer and when it can't hold anymore, it'll release itself. Good for at least two hundred feet. Those really cause a ruckus. The middle button is for retrieving and putting back the bustle rifle or the beam saber. The thumb button is to ignite or fire. To set off the electro-shield plates, punch the button right by you, the one below the wing button, those are for the shields. For your left hand, the middle is for your back and left arm shield. The thumb button is for the missiles and the trigger is the gattling guns. OH! And for some real serious damage, press this special white button on the console." Kirin leaned down and
pointed to a fairly large white button which was very hard to miss.
"What does that do?"
"I call it the weapons special. You'll have to battle to find out." Kirin smirked.
Heero took another long look at the controls. He leaned up. "This has been very informative, Kirin."
"You like?" Kirin asked hopeful.
Heero replied in a way that surprised her. "This has been very informative, Kirin."
Kirin almost fell into the cockpit with Heero if not for Quatre's quick reflexes. She smiled at him shakily then propped herself back onto solid ground. "Well, we should all be going. The Gundams are too big to be piloted now so we'll come back later tonight and retrieve them."
Heero casually got out from the cockpit and stood overlooking the ocean. How many times had he gotten out of Wing Zero and stood looking over the horizon? He couldn't remember at the moment which meant it was a rarity. He leaned over Kirin and stared at her.
"Did I do something wrong?" Kirin asked, a little nervous about Heero's intent gaze.
"Nothing. You did everything perfectly."
A little confused, Kirin just wrapped her arms around his neck. "Let's go home, ok? You and the guys can just stay there and relax! Yume, Shin, and me will pilots the Gundams, ok?"
"Whatever." Heero helped Kirin to her feet and they made their way back to the all-purpose vehicle. Kirin stopped and turned. She cupped her hands to her mouth. "Archangel, Dragon Slayer, Morning Star...Stealth mode!"
The Gundams slowly began to disappear from sight. All they could see now was the ocean and the horizon. Kirin smiled as she turned back to the five pilots. "Voice activated. Pretty handy, huh? I knew you'd guys be speechless."
Safe House (1:41 p.m.)
Shin Kin'Youbi dragged the heavy blue suitcase up the stairs and into the hallway. Kirin warned her that if she placed dibs on any of the rooms, she'd literally kick her out and be the last to pick whatever room that was left. And Kirin didn't usually make idle threats. Shin just decided to peer into the rooms, just a glimpse. She'd have to be patient while Kirin was joyriding with the pilots in their all-purpose vehicle. Kirin also promised she'd get them all vehicles so no one would be stuck driving everyone everywhere. Kirin had a plan for everything, didn't she?
"We're back!"
Shin turned on her heel and hopped down the stairs. Kirin was at the doorway, carrying a bag of groceries. She smiled at Shin. "Can you help the guys? We raided a warehouse and passed by a car mart. There's so much things to do when you buy a house!"
Shin could only nod her head. Kirin had no experience with living with people older than her. She usually made all the decisions back in ONI and the soldiers and officers usually looked up to her. Now she had to step down and let her elders take care of everything. So to speak.
Yume Okinawa appeared from the kitchen, clutching her stomach. "Food..."
Kirin handed Yume the groceries. "Food's in there. Before you eat anything, help the guys out, first. I bought enough to feed three colonies."
Yume went back into the kitchen. Kirin waited for a moment and called for Yume. "I said later, Yume!"
"But Kirin!"
Kirin turned and almost crashed into Duo. "Put those in the kitchen. It's on your left."
"Sure thing, boss-lady."
"Boss-lady?" Kirin repeated.
"I'd like to consider it my pet name for you."
"Pet name?" Kirin squeaked.
"You're not calling her that." came a monotone voice.
Duo's face defaulted. "Why not? It suits her perfectly!"
Heero gave Duo a glare. Un-phased, Duo continued to protest. "She's the lady of the house, isn't she? I mean, its HER house and she's been ordering everyone around so she's bossy-"
"I'm not BOSSY!" Kirin cried. She buried her face into her hands. "Everyone says that! So I like to take control every once in a while, but I don't demand everyone listen to me! I've been a General for six years! I can't help it!"
Heero sympathized with her. He knew how it was like being looked at for answers and to assume the Leader position.
"She's not bossy, Duo." He said. "If I hear you calling her that, I'll kill you."
Duo looked from Kirin to Heero. "Jeez...you two ARE perfect for each other...you just gang up on me whenever you guys want to..."
Heero simply pushed Duo towards the kitchen with his elbow. "Go into the kitchen. Take these, too." He piled on two more bags onto Duo's arms.
"Hey! I can't carry all this!" Duo whined.
"Builds strength and endurance." Heero replied. He looked at Kirin who now had her arms crossed. She was staring off into space, ignoring him and Duo. He didn't like being ignored. He came behind Kirin and leaned close enough to hear her mumble something about not being understood and trying hard not to be bossy. "It can't be helped."
Kirin spun around almost hitting Heero in the face. She looked ready to strangle him then proceeded to hug him. "You're right. I can't change the past so I have to look to the future." She buried her head into the nape of his neck. "You're warm. Are you sick?"
"I..." He tried to remember the last time he had gotten...sick. No, it wasn't that. He wasn't sick. He was actually happy as to how close Kirin was to him. She was very close to him. He was...blushing? "I'm not sick."
"You sure?" Kirin stood back and put a hand on his forehead. She then put a hand on his neck. "You're warm. Unless..."
"Unless...?" Heero murmured. He suddenly jumped forward, pushing Kirin against the nearest wall.
"Sorry!" cried Quatre. "I was trying to put down the Welcome Mat!"
"No harm done." Kirin said, nervously, seeing as how close Heero was to her. He had practically landed into her arms and chest area, almost as if they were...
"What's the hold up?" cried Wufei. "I'm carrying four bags of groceries! Would you keep moving, Winner?"
"I'm sorry, Wufei!" Quatre didn't see Heero and Kirin on the wall and proceeded to go into the kitchen.
Wufei came in behind Quatre and glanced at a seemingly flushed Heero. He eyed Kirin then shrugged. It was none of his business to know what they were doing. He walked towards the kitchen where a fit of swears began.
Trowa was at the doorway, carrying bags and silently walking into the kitchen. He wasn't going to ask what Heero and Kirin were doing in the hallway.
Shin came back holding only a bag. "The rest of them are too heavy for me to carry." She stared for a moment at Heero and Kirin who were still in their little `pose.' Heero turned his head slightly, hoping that his death glare was enough incentive enough for her not to ask. If Kirin's skin wasn't so pale they would probably notice she was blushing furiously. She was hoping this wouldn't get off to a bad start with her housemates.
Heero finally straightened himself up and apologized to Kirin. She laughed quietly. "What's to be sorry for?"
"I didn't intend to..."
"I know you didn't, it was an accident. Accidents happen." said Kirin.
"But you're only..."
"I'm eighteen. And you're twenty-one. I know there's a difference." Kirin stared hard at the floor. "Hasn't stopped anyone before..."
Heero took a step back. "You've been-"
Kirin put a finger to his lips. "Now is not the time to talk about that, Heero."
He nodded his head. Some things had to be put off, left to a memory, or just forgotten. But he wanted to know who violated his Kirin. He was going to find the men who did it and kill them. For her.
She smiled then jumped into the kitchen where everyone was confused where all the food was suppose to be put. Except for Yume, Shin, and Duo. They were already having lunch with whatever food that was edible.
"All right everyone, we're going to pick rooms."
Shin perked up. "I know what room I want!"
"So do I." said Yume.
Duo just shrugged. "I don't care."
"Don't put me with him." Wufei warned.
"I don't really care which room I have." said Trowa.
"I'd like to see the rooms first." Quatre said timidly.
"Hn."
Kirin crossed her arms. "Well, there's one room down here. All the other rooms are upstairs."
"I'll take the one down here." Heero offered.
"You sure?" Kirin asked. She was sort of hoping Heero would have a room by her. But it seemed just as well. If there was a certain occasion where they slept in one bed, the others wouldn't complain of the noises. "All right."
"I know what room Kirin is in." said Yume. "She's taking the corner room. It's already been planned, subconsciously."
"Of course, or else we wouldn't be the-"
"We're not the Triad anymore, guys." said Kirin. She reached for the nearest bag of groceries. "Since everything is supposedly pre-ordained, you guys go up and put your stuff into your rooms. I'll fix up everything here. We'll order some food for our first night here ok? Am I forgetting anything?"
"We need plates, eating utensils, furniture for us to eat on, sleep on, sit on...a television, phone..."
Kirin stared as Quatre went through an entire list of things for a new home. Trowa nudged her gently. "He has twenty-nine sisters. Living with us i(s Heaven compared to what he's used to."
"I see. Thank you, Trowa." The vein on Kirin's head disappeared with that little nugget of information. She patted Quatre on the back. "Quatre, let's take one thing at a time ok?"
"Sure." He looked a little flush, but otherwise still excited.
"All right, people, move out. Oh, Shin, Yume...after you two are done settling in, we're going back for the Gundams."
Shin and Yume groaned as they followed the other pilots out of the kitchen. Kirin stood alone in the kitchen. She crossed her arms. "With Shin and Yume here...and that Duo. This food's only gonna last us a few days!"