Hello there and welcome to my first fanfic. This story will follow Lacus and what she did during the events during destiny. The story focuses on Kira and Lacus, but mostly Lacus. The first chapter will be a little short, as it's an introduction, but the others will be longer.

Please read, review and enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own gundam seed/gundam seed destiny

C.E. 71

"Kira!"

The light consumed the entire skyline as the GENESIS self-destructed in the distance. All the ships, no matter which alliance they supported, watched in awe and horror as the last nuclear base from the PLANTs was wiped from existence.

Three ships in particular that formed the Three Ships Alliance had left the crew members silent and numb after what they had just witnessed. The destruction of the GENESIS meant the end to this worthless war, yet the casualties were too much of a sacrifice for certain crew members.

Aboard the Eternal, Andrew Waltfeld closed his eye for a minute to pay tribute to those special sacrifices. Soon after, he opened his eye again to give a sad look towards his new comrade, who was at the bow of the ship, placing herself as close as possible to the glass as she tried to find any possible sign of the one person she truly wanted to make it out alive. Neither of them had a doubt that the young coordinator was near the weapon as it self-exploded, yet Andrew did not want to take away her hope just yet of Kira Yamato's possible survival.

After a few minutes, he gave a deep sigh before rising from his chair, and floated over to her. He knew this might destroy the last innocence she still had. Her father was just killed not too long ago, and she had given her last remaining hope to Kira before he left to fight ZAFT and the Earth Alliance. Yet, she knew well enough that she could not be weak, not with the people who place their own hopes and dreams on her shoulders. She was Lacus Clyne after all.

Andrew reached her and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. She turned slightly from the window to show only Andrew her tear-stained face. Lacus made no sound, but her haunted expression and lifeless eyes told everything. Andrew grimaced at this sight, but after being in wars all his life, he was already hardened to such raw emotion. Though seeing such a young kid give up so much for others, he did not welcome the outcome either.

He was a good kid, wish he had more time.

"Lacus Clyne," He said causing Lacus to flinch at her own distinguished name. "Lacus-"

"Incoming transmission from the Archangel!" DaCosta's voice rang over Andrew's causing him to glare at his subordinate before returning to his commander's chair to receive the message. Murrue Ramius face appeared on the large screen before the crew. It was obvious she was crying, yet as captain of the Archangel, she could not let her emotions get the best of her. Though her expression was different than sadness Andrew thought as they connected with the other ship.

"What is it, Captain?" Andrew asked as soon as he saw her expression.

"One signal was detected. Both Justice and Freedom were destroyed in the last explosion." Andrew bowed his head, not even daring to look at Lacus. Murrue's excited voice cause him to glance back at the transmission. "Strike Rouge was found, along with three occupants."

"Three?! It can't be?" Murrue nodded and smiled as she saw Lacus appear on the screen, her face lit up with hope.

"Yes we just received a transmission from Cagalli. All three of them are alive, though it is unsure the extent of Kira's injuries. They are on their way back to the Archangel." She glanced at Lacus. "You may want to come over for an upcoming reunion."

Lacus did not hesitate as she quickly turned around to go to the docking bay of the Eternal. Andrew watched her go with a grin on his face. He nodded to Murrue as he went after Lacus, as he was too interested to see the kid again and how he survived this one.

Lacus was bubbling with anxiety and anticipation as the small shuttle carried both her and Andrew towards the Archangel. Her mind kept focusing on Kira and what had happen out there.

Is he seriously injured? What if something happen to him mentally? Did I push him too far?

She shook her head as she tried to rid of the negative thoughts. Instead she focused on the most important thing to her. Kira was alive, he had kept his promise. He came back to her. She raised her hand and placed against her fast beating heart. She had felt her heart stop completely after the destruction of the GENESIS and DaCosta's call there was no signal from the Freedom. She truly thought she had lost him. After all these years of being a political symbol, she never felt she was doing anything to her potential. That was until she met Kira Yamato.

The pink princess smiled deeply as she remember clearly how she thought he was a sweet, innocent boy who did not want to fight and had every right not to fight. Yet, his dedication and strength to help his friends gave strength to her as well as she felt she found her purpose in life.

Lacus willing gave him the Freedom and put her trust and hope in his hands. She trusted it with no one else. After meeting him again in space, she found herself feeling whole and complete when he was around her. It pained her deeply to watch him take off to the battle confident and willing to put a stop to this useless war. Kira was ready to fight the end, but Lacus was not ready to accept any possible consequences that almost came true.

Soon, the shuttle reached the Archangel's docking bay and Lacus found it amazing how many crew members from both the dock area and the command part of the ship were waiting for the arrival of the saviors of the war. Lacus exited immediately and approached Murrue.

"Where are they?"

Murrue smiled at the young girl. "They should be docking any time. The Strike Rouge was not that far away when I contacted you. I just thought you would want to be here when he comes back, Lacus."

Lacus gave a sincere smile and turn quickly as soon as the orders came up the Strike Rouge was boarding the Archangel. Lacus took a quick look to her side to see Kira's friends, Sai and Miriallia waiting impatiently also at the news of their friend. Lacus smiled again as she was extremely happy that Kira had some many people who cared about him.

The Strike Rouge boarded the Archangel and the crew was amazed how damaged the machine was. They were all more in shock that it managed to survive the self-destruction of the GENESIS. The cockpit door was already open as it was tough to fit three people inside a small cockpit. All the people on the dock strained to get a glimpse of the first pilot exiting the mobile suit.

A person emerged from the cockpit, and Lacus recognized the red Zaft suit, knowing Athrun would be the first one to give his friend the much needed medical attention. She nearly gasped out loud when Athrun grabbed the shoulders of an unconscious person, pulling him out the cockpit. Cagalli followed immediately after her brother, helping Athrun bring him towards to the ground.

Once they reached the ground, Murrue was on them calling out for medics and a stretcher. A crowd seemed to form around the trio, all trying to see if Kira was alright. Lacus managed to make her way through the crowd into the center of the circle. She bit her lip when she finally saw Kira, not wanting to break down in front of everyone.

"Kira!" Athrun quickly pulled off Kira's helmet, letting his friend breath in as much air as possible. Cagalli moved next to Athrun, clearly concerned about her brother. She instinctively grabbed onto Athrun's arm as he turn to give her a reassuring look. Both of them quickly look back when Lacus approached them, her eyes full of questions.

Cagalli gave her a big smile as Athrun did the same. "Don't worry Lacus. He is injured, but he's alive. We couldn't be any more thankful." Lacus nodded, but she was focused on Kira. Her eyes were searching his face, for any sign he would be alright.

She noticed a glare of light coming from around his neck and she saw her mother's ring she gave to him right before the battle. Tears started peaking up as she saw he made sure to carry it with him in the battle. He truly carried her hope with him along with all of her heart.

Lacus knelt down next to him and took one of his hands and squeezed it tightly. "Kira," She barley whispered his name when she felt his hand squeezed back. Shocked, Lacus quickly looked down to find deep violet eyes staring back at her. Lacus couldn't hold in her surprise, "Kira!"

Kira smiled weakly as he stared up at the face he was longing to see. He was relieved to see she was alright. He was very worried as Rau le Creuset tried attacking the Eternal, trying to get the best of Kira. After defeating the murderous man, Kira fell unconscious with Lacus as the last thing entering his mind.

As long as she is alive, he thought before drifting through space. In the end of the battle Kira decided he would do anything to make Lacus's ideals come true. A world without war, a coexistence of both Naturals and Coordinators is what he wanted as well.

Even if he didn't survive, Lacus is the only one who could help turn the world towards their shared dream. Kira smiled, knowing he was happy with his decision to protect everyone, especially Lacus. He fell unconscious as he saw a light in the distance coming closer. He did not realize his sister and his best friend were coming to pick him up.

Kira stared up the soft blue orbs staring back at him. A frown crossed his face as he saw her near tears. He knew it was because of him, yet he hated seeing her like that. He used what strength was remaining to reach his hand up and wipe away the tears. "Don't worry, Lacus. It's all over." His hand fell to the side as he slipped off again, but not before he saw Lacus's beautiful smile.

Lacus was so happy when he finally woke, and he was responding. She loved hearing his sweet, soft voice again and this time it was without pain, without regret. She was truly happy he was alright. She squeezed his hand again before reluctantly releasing it as the medics moved in, saying they had to get him to the infirmary and check him out.

"Kira." Cagalli moved closer as her brother woke, trying to hold back her own tears. She bit back any remarks she currently had to say to him when he was talking to Lacus. Cagalli looked towards Athrun who gave her a small smile, both of them knowing there will be plenty of time to do a lot of talking between the four of them.

Both of them watched as the medics placed Kira on a stretcher and carried him off to the ship's infirmary. Cagalli stared after her brother as Athrun glanced over at Lacus, who was rubbing her hands together, a nervous habit he recognized. A smile came to his face as he accepted both him and Lacus once being engaged had both found someone else that they belonged with, making them happier than they have ever been.

"You're smiling while Kira is hurt?!" Athrun jumped at Cagalli's voice and his expression turned solemn.

"No, no I was just thinking about how Kira and Lacus make a better couple than her and I ever did."

Cagalli nodded enjoying this thoughts, "Yes, you were an idiot but you figured that out. But I have to agree, my little brother deserves someone as nice as Lacus."

"Little brother?"

Cagalli glared at him, her eyes daring him to say it again. "Yep, my little brother, I'm definitely older." Athrun rolled his eyes at her stubbornness. Boy, did destiny throw me a loop with this one, he thought, though he was still smiling

After another minute, almost all the crew had dispersed to go back to their jobs leaving the three teenagers alone to their thoughts. Soon the blonde haired princess broke the silence between them by walking over to Lacus. She grabbed Lacus's hand and started dragging her towards the infirmary.

"Cagalli?" Lacus asked in surprise to her friend's actions. She received no response and quickened her pace to try to keep up with Cagalli. Athrun followed slowly behind knowing better than to get in his girlfriend's way.

Lacus finally pulled her hand away as soon as they neared the infirmary. "Wait, Cagalli," Cagalli stopped and turned to stare at her. "We should let Kira rest. Actually, all of you should rest. The war is finally over and I am sure everyone is exhausted from everything that has happened." Her voice dropped near the end as the image of GENESIS exploding flashed in her mind.

He's been through so much, he's lost so much.

"Kira should get as much rest as he can."

Cagalli smiled at her statement. "Exactly!" Lacus looked at her curiously making Cagalli grin. "Don't worry about us Lacus. Both Athrun and I will get some rest, I promise." Now Lacus was giving her a suspicious look along with Athrun.

"Cagalli." Athrun said, eyeing her. She ignored him keeping her focus on the pink haired teen.

"Kira does need rest, but I think the only way my brother will get any rest is if you're with him, Lacus."

Lacus stared at her with wide blue eyes. She was surprised Cagalli even said it. Though Lacus felt extremely happy that Cagalli understood how she was feeling. She wanted nothing more than to stay every second with the young boy she's come to love. Yet, another side of her kept pulling her away from him, knowing it was too early for her to reveal her true feelings.

Lacus stepped back shaking her head. "I can't. I mean I want to, but he needs all the rest he can get and I shouldn't disturb him."

Cagalli watched her mumble on, her grin only getting bigger. She took a step forward causing Lacus to take another step back. With another step forward, Cagalli placed both of her hands on her friend's shoulder, her grinning face beaming with excitement. "If that's what you want." With that Cagalli pushed Lacus back allowing the infirmary door to open and she pushed her through the door.

As soon as the door shut, Cagalli turned around giving Athrun her victory look as her trick worked. He just shook his head even though he was wearing a small smile. "What? She said she wanted to." Cagalli said innocently.

"You know that's not what she meant."

"Of course, but those two are so slow, if we don't give them any help they won't get anywhere." Athrun sighed and grabbed Cagalli's hand pulling her down the hallway towards the living quarters.

"Well, now that you accomplish your little plan, you can keep your promise to Lacus about us resting. I'm exhausted and I know you are too." Athrun said giving a small smile towards the blonde haired woman. Cagalli just rolled her eyes, but didn't argue allowing Athrun to lead the way to their room.

After being forced into the infirmary, Lacus was disappointed of falling to one of Cagalli tricks. Though she was upset at Cagalli for forcing her into the room, she felt a deep relief being near Kira again. She took a deep breath and turn around to face any staff members seeing her abrupt entrance.

To her surprise there was no one around. I wonder where the crew is, Lacus thought as she took a step further into the room.

"Hello? Doctor?"

"Lacus?" Lacus nearly jumped at the sound of her name and she quickly made her way towards one of the beds. She pulled back the curtain to find Kira staring back up at her.

"Kira." She let out a sigh as she looked him over finding nothing wrong except for the few bandages around his chest. She moved closer as she was naturally drawn to him. "I'm glad you're awake again." Lacus stopped right next to his bed as she hesitantly looked around.

"Where's the doctor? Or the medical staff?"

"Oh, my wounds are not too bad, so the staff went to see if there were any other people hurt. The doctor stepped out to talk to Miss Ramius. Actually, I should go talk to her as well." Kira said as he tried to sit up. Lacus was immediately at his side, sitting on the edge of the bed.

"No, Kira you mustn't get up. You need to rest." Lacus said firmly. Kira glanced at her, almost smiling at her serious demeanor.

"You don't have to worry. I'm fine, Lacus, just a little worn out." She shook her head catching onto his lie. She placed a hand against his bandaged chest, letting the fear rise again on how bad his injuries actually could've been. She shivered at her earlier thought of him being dead.

Kira felt her shiver and without warning pulled Lacus into a tight embrace. Lacus was surprised, but soon she relaxed in his arms. She felt safe.

Kira buried his face into her smooth pink hair. He soaked in her appearance, wrapping her in his arms as he was afraid he would have to let go, and once he let go, she would vanished. Vanish like everyone else he thought his mind wandering back to Tolle, Flay, and Mu. Kira knew from the beginning he wanted to protect Lacus like he protected all his friends. But now, he understood that there was a different, a deeper reason why he wanted to protect her. If I fail her, then I fail to save myself Kira thought as he tightened his embrace.

"I will always protect you," Kira whispered. Lacus shifted, knowing he said something, but couldn't quite make it out. She wanted to know what he said, but she decided to leave it alone. Instead she focused on a question she always wanted to ask him before the final battle.

Lacus took a deep breath knowing she had to ask the question sooner or later, but deep inside she was afraid of the answer. Her courage took over as she finally forced the question out.

"Kira? What will you do now?" Lacus pulled out of his embrace to look him directly in the face. She could tell he was in deep thought, but was surprised by his quick answer.

"Well, I was hoping we could figure that out together," Kira said with a blush creeping up his cheeks. He quickly averted his eyes, not wanting to see her expression. When he felt something cold and wet fall onto his hand, his head snapped back up to find Lacus on the verge of crying.

"Really?" She asked in a small voice. "You want me to come with you?" She barely got the words out before her voice started to choke. Kira looked at her with concern filled eyes.

"Of course, but I didn't mean to upset you. I'm sorry Lacus, so please don't cry." Lacus almost giggled at his answer. Instead she smiled sweetly at him while interlacing one of her hands with his.

"I'm not upset, Kira." Laughter finally bubbled up as she saw his expression grow with confusion. Tears were still forming, but she quickly pushed them away not trying to concern him anymore. "I'm not crying because I'm upset. I'm actually very happy you said that to me. To be honest, I was scared that once this war was done, we would go our separate ways and I didn't like that idea one bit."

"Lacus?"

She looked straight into his deep violet eyes, and she could see behind all the sadness and pain, there was longing and love. Lacus felt happy as she realized the love was for her.

He wants to stay with me. Kira wants us to have a future together. As I do.

"Kira, I want to stay with you from now on. Will you let me stay with you?"

For a moment, she thought she saw regret, but it was quickly replaced with warm eyes and a handsome smile.

"I was going to ask you the same thing, Lacus." Without waiting for an answer, Kira moved closer to her and lightly placed his lips against hers. Lacus melted into the kiss and was upset when he broke away not too long after. Kira saw her displeased look and laughed. "Well since we are going to be together from now on, I don't think we'll not be able to try that again." A blush appeared over his face as he registered his own words.

Lacus blushed as well before she put on a warm smile of her own. She slowly put her head on his shoulder and lightly wrapped her arms around him. Kira wrapped his around her as he sat with his back against the wall. Both of them sighed in content as they knew they both found something in the war they thought they never would have; Each other.