Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam Seed and Gundam Seed Destiny.
A/N: Yes, yes. I know Yzak is better off with Shiho or Dearka or Yzak is better off never having a sweetheart in his life. I just thought it would be nice to have something different once in a while.
I dedicate this chapter and whatever future chapters to all the few YzakxFlay fans out there. YzakxFlay is such a lonely -ship. Aren't I right? =)
I apologize for bad grammar.
Rated - T for language and themes.
" " for speech
Italic for flashbacks, thoughts, and opinions.
REDEMPTION: To Be Family: Chapter 1: Lovely Lady
Cosmic Era 75 is the year of reconstruction and reparation. It has been over a year since the second war ended between Naturals and Coordinators. Contemplating for the sacrifices of those who have been lost, mostly everyone from all over earth and space seems to be trying their best to get over what have been done. More others are trying their best to not repeat the same mistake of starting a new war. Some others however, never got over their racialist jealousy and there, of course, exists a few more others who still wishes for vengeance, but as for the time being, there exists peace.
ORB is slowly rebuilding its way back into the strong nation it once was while Earth is slowly regaining its perseverance, livelihood and prosperity. The same can be said about PLANTs.
After the death of Chairman Durandal, Lacus Clyne, once pop star diva, has been invited back to the PLANTs to serve as a mediator between ZAFT and the other nations in order to restore peace. Kira Yamato, former Freedom pilot and now one of ZAFT's Commandeering officers, decided to reunite with Lacus in PLANTs. The two have been happily married ever since.
Former Justice Pilot, Athrun Zala, on the other hand, decided to enlist in ORB military. And as present Admiral, he resolute to stay in ORB- close to- Cagalli Yula Athha, the still, Chief Representative and Lion of ORB Union. Apparently, nothing worthy of note has happen between the two.
Now Captain, Dearka Elsman has never gotten in touch with his former girlfriend, Miriallia Haw, ever since she dumped him, though he still gets upset about it once in awhile.
Still senior of the Joule squad, Shiho Hahnenfuss is the same as she was before- a highly intelligent officer and a loyal comrade.
Shinn Asuka, according to his seniors, is still a troublesome kid.
Ezalia Joule, since her retirement from the council, decided to invest in stock market.
And as for what happened to the rest of the Gundam Seed and Destiny cast is, apparently, none of Yzak Joule's business.
00000
"I speak for the entire council when I say: we appreciate the fact that you came all the way from PLANTs to negotiate peace in Lacus Clyne's stead, Mr. Joule. But unfortunately, we cannot sign this treaty."
"Please do not misunderstand our decision, Mr. Joule." The eldest on the congress explained. "It's not like Atlantic Federation does not wish for peace. The two consecutive wars have caused so many casualties to this nation, which is the sole reason why we have decided to take action of extreme cautiousness."
"How can we be certain another war will not happen? In order to accomplish the utmost understanding, we would like to discuss peace negotiations directly with Council Member Lacus Clyne and Lacus Clyne only as she is a PLANT supreme council and official mediator of ZAFT."
"I do respect everyone's decision. And as a person who has also experienced the many causalities of war, I understand the congress' concern for this nation. I have been personally appointed by Lacus Clyne herself as her surrogate. And I assure all of you that what ever treaty signed today in this very room will holdout and be kept for years to come."
As Yzak stood in front of everyone in the wide room, he could see the entire congress murmuring to each other as they decided to discuss the matter amongst their own, then stop.
"We will discuss peace negotiation when Lacus Clyne is ready to discuss matters with us personally."
"But Lacus Clyne is on maternal leave. That would take months!" Yzak argued. By then, who knows what can happen. A rebellion or a third war maybe? Not everyone seems to be satisfied with just two wars. Yzak did not want to take any chances.
"Then there is nothing else to discuss about."
That was it? Yzak furrowed his brow. The audience was a stubborn one. Voicing out reason to this crowd was futile.
As the representatives stood up from their distinctive chairs preparing to make their leave, with respect, Yzak, who hid his displeasure well, calmly bowed his head. "Thank you for your time." And with that, the representatives nodded back and left except one, the eldest one- Mr. J.E Grant.
Sensing Yzak's discomfort about the result of the meeting, the old man decided to approach the young Coordinator on his own. He picked up one of the many files Yzak had been collecting roughly all over the large conference table.
He held out the document towards Yzak's direction, returning it to him. "Young man, there is no need to worry." The man started causing Yzak to look at him stunned. Yzak had expected everyone gone by then. "Unfortunately, war can cause sufferings and it has the tendency to bring out the worst in people. But let me tell you this: time changes and so do people. This nation is not so eager to experience another war." The old man was smiling to him so kindly like he was looking at his son through him. "Trust between nations is the first step to peace. Fancy documents with signatures are nothing but pieces of papers. Trust this nation to trust yours. That is the only way to experience true peace."
Yzak's sapphire blue eyes followed the man as he calmly made his way towards the exit.
But as he was about to disappear, "how old are you now? Twenty. Twenty-five?" The man shook his head guessing with disappointment. "Yet, you are already doing jobs that should be handled by adults twice your age."
00000
The wide door to the conference room bursts open signifying the end of discussion. When Yzak and the rest of Earth Alliance's National Legislative body left the next room, Dearka stood outside waiting for his best friend.
The moment Dearka spotted Yzak already making his way to the exit in a really bad mood, his immediate reaction was to follow suit after him. "So, I'm guessing the negotiation didn't go well."
"It was a complete waste of time!" Yzak growled. "This is the last time I'm filling-in for any of the Council Members! If they wanted to directly negotiate with Lacus, then they should have said so before sending us here all the way from PLANT!" Yzak ranted, grabbing his overcoat from Dearka and putting it on.
"Aw, come on. Maybe its not that all bad." Dearka tried lightening up the mood. "Look at it this way. Now you have an extra two days to freely tour the city. Think of it as a two day vacation on Earth."
"Do I look like the type of person who wants to go on vacation!" No. That was certainly not a question. "Taxi!"
A cab pulled over. Yzak told the driver the name of the hotel they were staying in and entered the vehicle with Dearka following suit behind him.
Leaning an arm on the window seat, "everybody says you need a vacation though even Lacus agrees."
Yzak crossed his arm. "And who is this everybody?" These lucky people will certainly have the pleasure of feeling the wrath of Yzak Joule once he gets back to PLANTs.
Dearka sighed. "Look, Yzak. It's not like I want to agree with everybody, but you have been going against orders by not taking your official days off. What is it that you do everyday that makes you so busy? What is it that is so important that you don't even bother taking days off anymore? Yzak, the war is over. We no longer need to stay on patrol twenty-four seven."
"Well, unlike some people, I take my job seriously."
It was now Dearka's turn to glare at him.
"You know what? Fine. Do whatever you want. I hope you burn yourself out!" Sometimes, Yzak is just too stubborn for his own good. Dearka turn his face towards his side of the window when he was struck with an idea- "Pull over!" He ordered before quickly stepping out from the cab.
Was he upset? Yzak thought. Crap. Is this a silent treatment? Normally, Dearka would follow him around and bitch if his mad but this...
"Dearka, what on earth are you doing? Get back in the cab or I'm leaving you behind!" Yzak yelled out the door. But when Dearka didn't return, pissed, Yzak paid the cab and was forced to step down from the vehicle.
Yzak found that Dearka was on his way to an open space park located just on the other side of the road. There were playgrounds, hiking, running and mixed use trails or paths, bridle paths, sports field and courts, public restrooms, boat ramps and picnic facilities.
Dearka breathed in, looking up at the row of trees, appreciating its magnificence and the greens around it. "Isn't earth refreshing, Yzak? PLANT is like a miniature garden compared here." Dearka started when he had noticed his friend nearing him.
Dearka's comment, however, made Yzak raised a dark eyebrow at him. But despite that fact, the two eventually went for a stroll.
"It's not like I'm bad mouthing PLANTs or anything." Dearka chuckled. For a second there, he could have sworn Yzak looked offended. "I mean, PLANTs is my home even if it's in the darkness of empty where people can't live. That is what we've worked so hard to build, a nation that belongs to only us."
"Then so what is this nonsense about PLANTs being a miniature garden?" Yzak snapped back; he seems to be in a really bad mood today.
"Back in the first war, after landing on earth, I found myself thinking... that it's only right for people should be living in these surroundings." Dearka stated as a breezed passed them. "I mean, the smell of the earth; the sighing wind; the sparkling water! Don't these make you feel more relax?" Dearka encouraged.
"We have all those in PLANTs."
"Yeah, but not as natural."
"What are you trying to say?" Yzak threatened.
Suddenly, Dearka's plan of manipulating Yzak into wanting a vacation was going down the drain. "You're not listening, Yzak," more or less trying to appreciate the surrounding they were in.
"You Coordinators go back to where you came from!" A random civilian spat directly at them before quickly running away out of sight.
"So you were saying?" Yzak tucked his hand in his overcoat as he and Dearka continued to stroll.
"Okay, so earth isn't exactly paradise for Coordinators, but you cannot deny the fact- its nice strolling around these areas." From the corner of his eyes, Dearka made a quick glance at Yzak's pokerfaced expression. "Seriously, Yzak, don't you feel anything different?"
"If I said I did, will you shut up about earth's atmosphere being so nice?"
All too sudden, from behind, there came a childish scream. "No Wufei, come back!"
"Hey you two, watch out!" Screamed another civilian.
Unsure whether the scream was directed at them, Yzak and Dearka turned their heads to their backs anyway. And before they knew it- charging towards them was a gigantic blue dog with pointy ears; in its mouth was a hat of the softest pastel colors. It has a large down turned fine straw brim and featuring a large pale pink silk rose as the front detail. Basically, it was one of those hats ladies wore in spring.
Being Coordinators with great reflexes, Yzak and Dearka managed to jump out of the way. But unlike Yzak, Dearka took the time to seize the dog while at it. Dearka grabbed onto the leash attached to the dog's harness and pulled, quite similar the how people halt horses.
And for a really big dog, surprisingly it didn't put up a fight and obeyed instantly, and stopped. The dog turned to look at his current handler then to the guy next to him, and wagged its tail a couple of times as if wanting to play. Then as it was about to bark, the dog suddenly disregarded the hat on its jaw by loosening its grip on it. Instead, it let the swift wind takeover by letting it blow away.
Acting fast, "Yzak, hold the dog. I'm going after the hat." Dearka passed the rope.
"What!" But before Yzak could actually react and say how stupid that was, Dearka was already running. "Dearka!" Yzak yelled, telling him to come back.
"Fine looking hat equals fine looking lady!" Dearka yelled back. He waved a hand for a sec and continued his chase for the pastel pink hat.
That darn idiot! Yzak snarled. Unwilling dragged into this crazy chase, he then dropped his gazed unto the leash Dearka have impulsively placed on his hand to the huge dog attached to it. What stunned him was not the size. No. It was definitely not the size of the dog but rather the way the dog was staring up at him with sheer playfulness that made it seem like it would pounce on him any minute. Yzak responded by glaring back. It's not like he was not fond of animals but... "Don't you even dare."
00000
Despite his enhanced speed and reflexes, chasing after a hat being blown away by the shifting the wind has proven to be a difficult task. On the bright side, Dearka enthusiastic concluded, they don't usually have these kind of adventures up in PLANTs.
When the pale hat flew over the large pond, in order to retrieve it, Dearka jumped high sailing over the large body of water as well. This crazy stunt of his not only caught him the hat but also the eyes of civilian all over the park.
And just as Dearka was about to reach water, he threw the hat to dry land before falling into it with a splash.
Approximately one minutes later, Dearka resurfaced for air. And the first thing Dearka noticed on his way up was Yzak's silver hair and blue eyes over at the dock to where he had previously thrown the hat earlier on, and thus he swam over.
Noticing the unusual smile on his best friend's face, Yzak turned to be unexpectedly cheery, Dearka thought surprised.
"Yzak, where's the dog?"
"I'm over here, you idiot." Yzak retorted causing Dearka to surprisingly shift his head, redirecting his gaze across the area behind him. Yzak was standing on the other side of the pond. In his hand, was the leash still attaching him to the Great Dane, next to him, that seems to be wagging its tail all excited.
A bit confused, Dearka blinked a couple of times. He wanted to rub his eyes clear if he could. "But if your over there then who-?" Dearka broke of, turning back his attention once more to the person leaning over the dock; her head hovering his over water. Squinting for a better look, the person above him was not Yzak alright but a little girl, Dearka soon realized.
"Thank you for saving my hat, mister!" The little girl smiled.
00000
No sooner than later, Dearka climbed out from the water and back on dry land.
Sitting on green grass and still wet from his recent swim, "man, she is definitely not the fine lady I was hoping to meet." Dearka said to Yzak while wiping his ears clear of water.
With one hand still on the dog leash, Yzak snarled. "Well, who were you expecting? A voice as shrill like the one we heard earlier would obviously belong to a child."
"I was expecting a real babe of course." Dearka replied bluntly.
Yzak rolled his eyes. He should have expected this from Dearka.
"Hey, but Yzak, don't you think that little girl strangely resembles you a lot?" Dearka was referring to the little girl he had mistakenly address as Yzak earlier at the pond.
Yzak turned to take another look at the girl, who was making her way to her dog.
The little girl had hair of the color of silver greatly similar to his; her big round eyes are the similar shade of blue like his; and her skin was no doubt as pale as his. The only difference was gender and the fact that she was roughly only three to four years old.
Hair color, skin color, eye color- the resemblance was uncanny. The little girl looked like family standing next to him. The thing is... She wasn't.
If Yzak was not so sane, he would have sworn this girl looks a lot like his mother when the woman was a whole lot younger. Did people start messing around with genes again or worst; could this be cloning?
Because Yzak was certain that no one, not even in PLANTs, other than him and his mother had silver hair, blue eyes and skin as white in one package. It's a Joule family trait. Especially, the hair color!
When Yzak hadn't said a word, Dearka took this as a- yes, it's strange.
"Aw... Wufei, don't scare me like that again!" The little girl whined, wrapping her arms around the large animal, whom seemed quite happy about the embrace.
"So little girl, what's your name?" Dearka asked casually since his priority of changing into dry clothes doesn't seem possible at the moment.
Yzak on the other hand, simply stood there on the side. No doubt he was listening.
The little girl raised her head at him. She blinked a couple of times, looking pretty much unsure if she should be talking to this man. "Mama said, I shouldn't be talky to strangers." She answered innocently.
Taken aback, Dearka faked hurt. "Is that how to treat the guy who saved your hat?"
This made the little girl think for a moment. She then turned her attention to Yzak causing Dearka to add.
"And does he look strange to you?" Dearka pointed to Yzak with his thumb. "I mean, the two of you have the same hair color. Your eyes are both blue. And look at your skin color." Dearka purposely paused for a moment giving the girl time to think before deciding to continue. "See. We're not strangers." Dearka smiled.
Yzak rolled his eyes at Dearka's way of communicating with kids, yet, silently, he admired how Dearka's quick brain works. This way, they might even find out why this little girl looks the way she does.
"My name is Dearka and the grumpy one over there is Yzak. So what's your name?"
Convinced with Dearka's simple theory, "Kaitlyn." The girl replied.
"So Kaitlyn, where is your father?" Dearka decided to continue.
"Mama said, Papa died fighting a war." Kaitlyn lowered.
"And your mother?"
The little girl scanned the area; suddenly realizing the fact that she had been separated from her mother and has no idea where she was. And her eyes were slowly growing red from the upcoming tears when it just stopped.
"Kaitlyn, honey, where are you?" A worried sound of a woman called out.
Simply by hearing the woman's voice, the little girl replied quickly as if it was the most natural thing to do. "Mama!"
When at last, the woman had caught up with her daughter, there were two stunned faces as they gaped at what appeared before them: a profile of a stunning sophisticated lady. Her eyes were covered beneath a lovely sisal broad brim hat with a two color organza bow and feathers; underneath was a great massive torrent of smooth red colored hair flowing dramatically with the wind.
The woman was outrageously curved with large firm breast. And she looked completely striking... no... ethereal in her long halter dress. The dress fitted her body tightly about the bodice; the waist snug, revealing its slimness. The skirt was a soft bell that swayed gently when she walked. She even added length to her long legs with towering platform heels.
When Yzak looked up and saw the woman, he had no idea who she was. It was a full minute before he realized that she was Kaitlyn's mother then Dearka broke into a grin, smiling triumphantly.
Dearka nudged the transfixed Yzak. "There's no way you can call a woman as gorgeous like that- mother."
Yzak flinched. Dearka was right. Normally, Yzak wouldn't even catch himself dead staring at women! But this woman was indeed very beautiful. And at close view, Yzak thought she was even more striking.
Quickly, the woman ran to her daughter and embraced the girl with absolute relief. "Thank goodness, you're all right."
The girl kept her smiling face. "I'm okay mama. They saved my hat and Wufei." She pointed towards the two male's direction causing the lady to finally take notice of the two strangers behind her little girl.
"Thank you for keeping my daughter and dog safe." The woman made a graceful bow thanking them both. And when she raised her gaze to meet theirs- angelite blue-grays met with sapphire blue and amethyst purple; and all the color drained off from both Yzak and Dearka's faces as though they had seen a ghost.
And there flashed across their minds events they each knew so well. Dearka remembered her as the insane girl who once tried to shoot a bullet through his head. Yzak on the other hand, remembered her as the annoying, confused, frightened and insecure brat Commander La Creuset had brought aboard the Vesalius.
In a gasp of thought, there was no mistaking it- this lady was the very same misunderstood girl who was simply caught in the conflict of the first war. The very girl who had supposedly died too. Only, Flay Allster was standing in front of them very much alive and with a child!
And from the looks on Flay's reaction, seeing Yzak and Dearka in these parks seem to have shock her greatly as well.
Time seem to have frozen that very moment. The cool wind that had passed through appeared to have turned ten times sharper. It was a complete blow on the head, knocking answers to questions they never thought to ask.
Suddenly, why that little girl looked a lot like him suddenly made sense to Yzak. Never in his young life had he imagined something like this would happen; and the silver haired Coordinator never felt so outraged in his entire life.
What he did next never even came to him, seeing that Yzak have strode forward on impulse, unconsciously dragging the dog still leashed around his tightened fist.
Seizing Flay's arm with his free hand,
"WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!"