Gundam SEED: Betrayal

by DreamersLTD

If you can dream, then anything is possible. – DreamersLTD Motto

Disclaimer: Original Story Base/Idea by Elda Aranel. Used with permission. I don't own Amaya, her friends, Van Dell or (most of) this first chapter. Elda Aranel does. Nor do I own Gundam SEED or Gundam SEED Destiny. I own Akira and his friends, as well as this account.

MAJOR NOTE: This is a Lacus and Kira gone wrong story. Lacus goes through a bit of a change and leads to Kira and her splitting up. Definitely NOT for HARDCORE KxL FANS. I DO NOT, AND WILL NOT accept flames or insults of ANY kind. If you do not like the story, then please be civilized and just hit the Back button on your browser and think nothing more of this story. If you somewhat liked, plainly enjoyed, or found some interest in the story, but have an idea or didn't like a certain part, post it and the writer will see if they want to work with it. Constructive criticism is what allows the writer to better connect with their story, as they see it from the perspective of the reader(s). That is all.

Marital Changes

Things can change, just like people. Often that change is far what is truly desired. Right after the second war, Kira and Lacus married. Eight months later, they were doting on their new son and daughter, Akira Hibiki Yamato and Amaya Rose Yamato, who were near-identical fraternal twins. And they were a family. Since Lacus worked as a peace mediator for PLANT, they lived on Aprillius while occasionally visiting Orb to see Cagalli and Athrun. Kira spent Lacus's work hours with the children or creating databases and programs for Orb. It was only after they turned one that things slowly fell out of place, piece by piece. And it all started with Lacus's unusual late return home.

"Dada," Amaya gurgled joyfully, waving her pudgy hands around. Kira smiled and lay her down in the oak crib. "Mama…" As this, Kira's smiled slipped from his face. Lacus was late again. He brushed a finger against the girl's soft cheek. After a moment, he looked over to his son, who was quietly watching him. "Mama...?" he echoed his sister.

"Mama's not here," he whispered. Amaya quieted down, as if she understood. Akira too, returned to silence. Silently, Kira pecked them both on the cheek and turned the lights out, leaving only a glowing night light. As always, Amaya fell asleep almost instantly, followed by Akira. Kira shut the door and smiled again. He was proud of his little children. His thoughts drifted and for the second time in ten minutes, his smile faded into a frown. It was eight o'clock. Where in the world was his wife?

Ezalia sighed as she looked in distaste at her pile of reports and legal documents that were waiting for her attention. As her hand shifted to pick up the top document her phone rang, startling her. Before the caller gave up, Ezalia picked up the phone.

"Ezalia speaking," she said, silently wondering who it was, since the call by-passed her exhausted secretary.

"It's Kira," the other voice said.

Ezalia relaxed into her chair and allowed herself a small smile. "Hello. To what do I owe this pleasure?"

"Please, there's no need for formality," Kira replied.

The older woman chuckled. "You're right. How's Amaya and Akira?"

"They're doing great," Kira said. "I just put her to bed. Listen is Lacus with you? I just called her office and she wasn't there. Her cell phone is here."

At this information, Ezalia frowned. "You mean she's not home yet?"

"No," Kira said. "I know she's been working late for a while but she's usually home by now."

Now Ezalia was worried. "Lacus has been working late you say? That's impossible, Kira."

Silence greeted her from the other line. "How's that?"

"I mean she's been leaving everyday at the normal time," Ezalia clarified. "Tonight she was out an hour late because of an important conference. She left three hours ago."

"Did she mention if she was doing anything?" Kira inquired.

"She said she was going home for the night, and that's it," Ezalia said. For a moment neither of them spoke. They just pondered on Lacus and her mysterious handiwork. Finally Ezalia was alert and into the mystery.

"Has she been like this for a while?" Ezalia asked.

Kira reluctantly answered, "I suppose. She's been distant and rather snappy with me and even with the children. But I can't think of anything I've done recently to upset her."

"She's been a little out of it for a while here, too," Ezalia agreed. "I mean, her work gets done perfectly but Lacus has been a touch harsher than normal. Most don't notice it though. How about I take her to lunch and talk to her?"

"Fine by me," Kira said. "I haven't been able to have lunch with her in weeks."

"What? But she said she was going out to lunch with you all this time," Ezalia exclaimed. Now she was curious. And she had an idea of what was going on. "I'll get back to you later. Goodnight."

"Night," Kira said before hanging up. That uneasy feeling was wrenching his gut again. Something was off but he was afraid to admit what.

Lacus hummed to herself and flipped through a paper. The sun was shining brightly today, in a matter of speaking. She glanced at her clock which read 11:48 am. Satisfied, Lacus carelessly tossed the paper into her increasing pile of incomplete work and moved to get her jacket. Then someone knocked on her door.

"Come in," Lacus said, looking for her purse. Ezalia strode in, wearing a less formal outfit and a light jacket. The woman smiled.

"That's a new outfit," she commented, noting the dark slacks and cerulean blouse. Lacus turned to look at her.

"Oh, I bought it the other weekend," Lacus stated absently. "Did you need something?"

"Just waiting on you," Ezalia said. When Lacus looked confused, the other laughed. "I'm taking you to lunch today. My treat."

"But I can't," Lacus protested.

"I insist," Ezalia said. "It's been a while since we just talked and enjoyed a nice afternoon together. Kira already knows I got you for the afternoon."

The pink haired girl stuttered but relented. So Ezalia happily pulled her along to a quaint restaurant. Lacus remained silent. While Ezalia ordered a pasta special, Lacus simply ordered a Caesar Salad. Ezalia didn't comment. Instead she smiled pleasantly.

"I haven't seen such a beautiful day for weeks," she began. "I convinced Kira to take Amaya and Akira out. He's such a busy bee, like you."

"Oh, that's nice," Lacus said. "Amaya's not out much, and neither is Akira." Ezalia saw through her act but Lacus didn't notice. "When did you talk to him?"

"This morning," Ezalia said. "I guess I caught him in the middle of a business call so we didn't talk much. Just long enough to steal you off for lunch." Speaking of which, the food arrived and when the waiters were gone she waited for Lacus to reply.

"A business call? With who?" Lacus wondered. "I rarely see him on the phone. It's usually through email he talks with others."

"Probably with Ms. Cagalli or Ms. Desari," Ezalia said. "You're right; he's not much for the phone." A moment passed and Ezalia struck a new topic. "Have you met the new representatives?"

"Which one? If I recall, there are four of them," Lacus replied, chewing on her salad.

"Any of them? I met with Ms. Reynolds, Josh, and Mr. Saunders," Ezalia said. "I haven't met with Mr. Robert Van Dell."

Lacus shifted and shrugged. "I haven't met with any of them," she said flatly.

"But Liz said she saw Mr. Van Dell come to your office a few times," Ezalia risked it and jumped. Lacus again shifted.

"Okay, we've met," Lacus said. "Just some business."

Ezalia gazed at her friend, knowing better. She was a woman too and she could tell when a girl liked a guy. Sadly this girl was married.

Later, Ezalia trudged into her office and spent half an hour staring at the phone. Half of her pleaded to call Kira up and give him her notes. Yet the other half couldn't bring herself to hurt him or make false accusations at Lacus. Pleading won over reasoning and Ezalia picked up the phone. She began to dial then stopped. Lowering the phone Ezalia cleared the number and input the number zero. Her secretary answered.

"Yes, ma'am."

"Have my car meet me out front," Ezalia said. "And cancel my other appointments for the day."

"Yes, ma'am."

Kira set Amaya and Akira down in the living room after lunch. The toddlers crawled straight to the blocks not five feet away. As they contentedly sat with their wooden toys, Kira heard the doorbell ring and left to answer it. And he was surprised to see Ezalia standing there. Startled, he invited her into the living room where he could watch the children and talk.

"What brings you out this way?" Kira asked. He closed his laptop on the coffee table and sat down. Ezalia gazed at Amaya before answering Kira.

"I spoke with Lacus today and got nothing out of her," Ezalia softly said. "She… seemed indifferent to my conversation about you and the twins. And I noted she was nervous when I talked about the new representative, Robert Van Dell. I'm just guessing and am probably way off… but they might be… involved. I just have the feeling. Even Lacus's secretary says so."

Kira said nothing. He merely sat gazing off into nothingness. But Ezalia saw the masked pain in his deep eyes and the defeat in his posture. That moment she knew Kira would not put up a fight for Lacus when she could chose. "Kira… talk to her."

Another moment passed. "I will. Ezalia, thank you."

She shook her head and stood. "No at all. If you ever need any help, just call me up." With quiet farewells, Ezalia left Kira to his thoughts and children. Somehow, she knew this wouldn't end well. She was driving her sleek car from Kira's home when she noticed Lacus driving up. Damn, she thought. She should have simply called Kira. There was no second glance back at the manor as the car drove away.

Meanwhile, Lacus noted Ezalia's car leaving quickly and wondered what was happening behind her back. Intent on finding out what, she stormed into the house, slammed the door shut and yelled, "Kira!"

Kira heard her and started. What was she doing home so early? Without a second thought, he stood to meet her. For the first time, he noticed how she wasn't the same woman he married the previous year. That soft look that always shined in her lilac eyes had faded. Her clothing was less nice dressed and more casual wear. Even her expressions, voice, and behavior had changed. Doubts rang through his mind. Perhaps they rushed into this marriage too early.

"You're home early," Kira said gently. Lacus surprised him further and walked up to Kira.

"What was Ezalia here for?" she demanded, glaring at her husband. The tone struck Kira.

"She came to talk to me," he stiffly replied. "That's all."

"Are you lying to me?" she accused.

"No more than you, I'm sure," Kira calmly replied. Lacus froze and stared at him. But Kira gave her no chance to recover. "Ezalia told me what happened at lunch today. And more."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Lacus stared hard at him, daring him to accuse her.

"She called last night," he said, "and she told me everything. You weren't working late. And you weren't busy at lunch or with me either."

"It's none of her business," Lacus gritted her teeth, "Or yours in what I do during my lunch time."

Kira ignored her and continued. "I heard that your work is falling behind a bit and you're a bit snappier. Damn, Lacus, you even snapped at Akira the other day."

"You're impossible," Lacus stormed past him.

"What's going on?" Kira asked in a fridge tone. "Are you having an affair with Van Dell?" That name froze his wife on the stairs.

"I suppose Ezalia told you that also?" she said as she slowly turned around.

"She did," Kira said.

"The nerve of her," Lacus fumed.

"What's going on, Lacus?" Kira demanded. "You aren't yourself lately."

"And who are you to tell me who I am?" Lacus snapped. She stomped back to him. "So I'm not as childish as I used to be. Who cares? I have enough to do without your accusations!"

It was done. The divorce papers were signed. Kira was given custody of the kids. It hurt to know she didn't fight for that custody. He and Lacus only agreed on one thing: to split ways. Lacus left the court house, arm in arm with Van Dell. Kira felt his soul rip and die slowly as she walked out of his life. Amaya lay in his arms, sullen, probably getting an idea of the problem. Akira, on the other hand, remained observant, but was also quieter than usual. Both had never called for mama since that day. Only dada. Kira packed and left for Orb, where Cagalli and Athrun were quick to meet him and his kids. Little was really said. The two cooed over the little girl and boy. They were fast asleep after arriving at Cagalli's home. Athrun was going to move Kira's suitcase from his car to a room but he was stopped.

"Don't bother," Kira said.

"What?" Athrun was confused but listened. In the living room, his very pregnant sister and brother in law met with him.

"I was wondering if you two could watch Amaya and Akira for a while," Kira said softly. Cagalli's eyes widened.

"What for, Kira?" she asked.

"I guess I need some time to sort myself out," he replied. "I don't want to hurt Amaya nor Akira on the side."

"But you'll be here in Orb," Athrun protested. "So why leave them here?"

"Because I'm not staying in Orb," Kira replied, shocking his family.

"What!?" they exclaimed.

"Where're you going to go?" Cagalli asked loudly. "Surely not back to PLANT. I mean, Lacus is gone. A done deal. You can start over here away from her."

Kira shook his head. "I'd rather just leave for a while. I already spoke with Desari. She hooked me up with a shuttle from Aprillius to Julius."

"You're going back to the OPA? How long?" Athrun asked. Kira shrugged.

"I honestly don't know," he replied.

Leaving Amaya and Akira safely sleeping with her aunt and uncle, Kira left Orb that night. Cagalli never gave up trying to get him to stay. But Kira was stubborn too and would not be moved. Finally, his shuttle left.

And the years passed by. Kira returned to Orb only for the holidays or on the children's birthday. But that was all. The little boy and girl he knew grew up quickly. At age 3 they discovered that Amaya had a heart problem that would only surface if she stressed herself out. That prevented her from participating in the more rigorous sports. Cagalli and Athrun's oldest son, Jaden, was a sharp boy, as was his little brother, Chase. Things turned around when the twins turned five. As a children, they were precocious, like Kira. While they rarely saw their beloved father, they never hated him.

"Why doesn't Daddy stay?" Amaya, age 5, asked her aunt Cagalli. Cagalli put down her notebook and looked her niece square in the eye.

"He's not feeling well," Cagalli white lied. "He didn't want to hurt you or your brother so he's staying with some friends on the colonies."

"Are you sure?" asked Akira.

"Yes," responded Cagalli.

"What about Mama?" Cagalli froze in cold anger. She once adored Lacus but after the incident, she hated the woman for hurting her brother, her only close family left, in the worst way she could think of.

"She's gone, Amaya," Cagalli calmly said. "She's not coming back."

"But Daddy will, right?" the twins chorused.

"Of course he will." Cagalli cuddled the girl and ruffled the boy's hair. "He loves you both a lot." Suddenly the sound of glass breaking shattered the moment. "Jaden Nara Zala! Haumea, why?"

At age 7, they discovered that Akira had a tendency to go berserk and violent when pushed too much; that resulted in the ER hospitalization of three former-bullies. Luckily, Akira managed to thoroughly explain what happened, and though he was temporarily suspended for excessive violence, was let off with no restraints.

A couple of years later, Cagalli called for Amaya. "Amaya!" The dark haired child ran at her aunt's voice to meet her.

"Here I am!" she giggled. Cagalli smiled and bent over to talk with Amaya.

"I have some great news," she said. "Your daddy is coming home to stay for good."

Amaya's lilac eyes lit up so brightly when she heard those words. "Really! Yay! Daddy's coming home. Are you sure?" Even Akira looked up from his reading with an inquisitive look.

Cagalli burst out laughing at her sudden change of thought. "Of course. He wouldn't lie to you."

"Why now?" Amaya frowned in curiosity.

"He's feeling better now," Cagalli said simply. "So he's coming back."

"Yipee!" Both kids jumped and squealed.

That very spirit was how they greeted the young man at the shuttle port. Kira walked through the terminal with a small bag. Even after all this time, Akira and Amaya knew their father. Wasting no time, they bounded over to him. Amaya's pretty purple dress swayed as she embraced her father happily. It warmed her little heart when he held her gently. Akira, acted more sophisticated and walked to his beloved father. Just having his hair ruffled by his dad warmed his heart. Cagalli smiled but saddened when her brother didn't smile. It was rarer and rarer over the years to see him smile. The last time she remembered him smiling was before the… problem. Silently she wondered if he ever smiled for Akira and Amaya when they were alone. Yet only doubt entered her mind when Kira's eyes met hers. There was dull pain aching behind his amethyst orbs. A pain that could never heal, no matter how hard he or anyone tried. One person put it there and one person could remove it. But at the same time she saw love for his only daughter and son and herself. Though he visited once or twice a year, he rarely spoke and did much. She sighed and put on a fresh smile. It was time to see what changes her brother went through.

Kira had bought a simple manor near Cagalli's along the coast of Orb's capital. It was plenty spacious for rambunctious children to play in. Of course, Murrue, Cagalli, and Miriallia took the liberty of fixing the house up, since they considered themselves the ones who could decorate. And it wasn't bad at all. Actually, the house turned out nicely. The day before his arrival Athrun and Cagalli moved Amaya's and Akira's things into their new rooms, leaving only a small supply of clothing in case they ever stayed over randomly.

As Kira and his sister entered the house with Amaya be bopping ahead of them and Akira lagging behind, Cagalli revealed some news. "A few friends are getting together today. Kind of a welcome back party," she said. "We really missed having you around."

"What time?" Kira gave her a soft look.

"We'll get you two at 5," Cagalli replied as she thought inwardly, 'I'll be getting good with reading people because of him…'

Until then, Amaya and her brother helped Kira do a little unpacking before spending their time outside. Amaya laughed and sang away while Akira flew a kite. Later on in the evening Cagalli and Athrun picked them both up and took them to the little party. Okay, so many people he knew were there. His parents, Malchio, Murrue, Mu, Miriallia, Kisaka, Neumann and Pal, Dearka (who was visiting with Miriallia), Shinn, Luna, Meyrin, Andrew, and even Sai and Kuzzy where there. He was surprised to see Andrew there, instead of at PLANT, protecting… her. But he happily talked with everyone. Amaya and Akira wandered off after saying hello to her grandparents to play with the other children. It was a good night. Yet no one saw Kira smile once. Many who knew of the incident saw the deep scars and understood. At least he wasn't emotionless. His eyes were still a window to his torn soul. At last Kisaka caught up with Kira alone with a job offer.

"How about teaming up with us in security and defense?" Kisaka offered. "It may be in Orb's military but at least you're not fighting."

Kira thought for a moment then nodded. "Sounds fine by me."

And more years passed by. The twins celebrated their 13th birthday with glee, thrilled to be teenagers. Life was beautiful for them. They attended Orb's best but public high school now, Capital High as a freshman. In the school was a special Coordinator program for the Coordinator teens. Both had been in this program since they began school, and it allowed them to fly through the years. Their cousin, Jaden, was a Coordinator and slightly younger than them and he was back two years of them. The twins both had friends who stuck with them. Monday through Friday were dedicated mostly to school. After which, Amaya hung out with Jade, Éclair, and Robin at the local arcade, the beach or the park while Akira hung out with Mark, Justin, and Storm. Amaya and her group often over-nighted at one another's house while Akira and his group spent time playing games at each other's houses.

Best yet, they both had their family. Their aunt Cagalli, uncle Athrun, their cousins Chase and Jaden, and their favorite: their father, Kira. The twins could proudly say they could understand him better than anyone. He held his emotions in check and they rarely saw him smile and laugh. But they had quickly learned that they didn't need to see him smiling to know what he was feeling. His eyes told them everything. The three were close. They never fought, and only argued for the fun of it. Those past years apart faded so quickly that they were forgotten. While they were in school, Kira worked in the government. The twins were always proud to know that their father was one of Orb's most valued and trusted Generals. Not long before she had turned 14, Kira was unanimously elected to take up the position of Orb's General of Defense and Military, pretty much replacing Kisaka. In cases where Cagalli couldn't attend a meeting, Kira stood in for her. People half the time preferred working with him. Both children knew their father was one of the most talented men around.

People adored the kids as well. For Amaya, they commented how dark and silky her long hair was or how bright her lilac eyes were. People knew she was the splitting image of her mother. Each had thought it would hurt Kira to look into those soft eyes. But he proved them wrong and conquered that pain. With all his work and duties, Kira always put time aside just for Amaya, and she never complained. As for Akira, everyone commented how he was a near-splitting image of his sister and his father. The only thing that people thought would have reminded him of his mother were his blue eyes. But as with Amaya, Kira had conquered that problem, and Akira didn't complain. And never once did either twin mention not having a mother. Life was never more beautiful in this time of peace. It could last forever. But Fate has its own agenda.

Amaya and her twin brother were 17 by now, and had separate classes except for band, choir, and language arts. Amaya sat daydreaming in her math class. She wasn't fond of math, but could do it easily. But Robin hated it. The red head spent her time doodling and ignoring the teacher. If it wasn't for Amaya, Robin would have long ago flunked out. Her slender fingers twirled the tiny silver, heart locket around, giving it a gentle tug on the silver chain occasionally. It was a gift from her beloved father when she turned eight. Her twin brother received a gold cross that day from their father too. One side of Amaya's locket held a picture of her self currently and the other was one of her father out on the beach on a clear sunset. It was her favorite picture. She remembered taking that picture. They were enjoying a walk on the beach, with Amaya going on and on about school. She somehow managed to get him to smile and it was a perfect picture. It was the only truly recent photo she had of him smiling. No one knew she had such a breathtaking picture except for her brother, who was upset that he wasn't there to catch that rare moment. She held the only copies, with one going to her brother. Suddenly, the blessed bell rang.

At the same time that Amaya was daydreaming, Akira was also pondering the truth of his father. He had seen the picture that Amaya took where their father was smiling, and he was a bit sad and upset that he wasn't present that moment to witness the rare smile. He silently cursed the research assignment that he had to finish that day. But his sister was willing to give him one copy of the rare picture, which he took real good care of. Then, the same blessed bell rang, and he was out of history class.

The girls were out and gone. Éclair was waiting for them. Next class was a favorite for the girls: language arts. Smiling, they walked into the classroom. Upon entering, they met up with Akira and his friends. One of Amaya's friends giggled at the sight of Akira's group. Apparently, one of the girls had a crush on one of the guys.

A mask-wearing Kira strode down the hallway to the conference room where PLANT's representatives were waiting (his mask is like Akito's from Martian Successor Nadesico: Prince of Darkness). Cagalli was flustered with being stuck at the hospital. But no one would let her up for at least a few more days. Kira knew a part of her would delight in spending that time with her new baby girl, due soon. Now he had to take her place for the next two months. Although he didn't overly mind it, the extra workload dampened his time with Akira and Amaya.

Reaching the door he walked in… and stopped short. His mask (literally and figuratively) didn't falter to his relief. Before him was PLANT's party: Ezalia Jule, Daniel Stowe, Robert Van Dell, and the current Chairwoman, Lacus Clyne. He had heard she stayed with her maiden name. His eyes hardly stayed on his ex-wife. Instead Kira closed the door and met Ezalia.

"It's good to see you again, Kira," Ezalia said quickly, shaking his hand. "It's been far too long since we last saw you. Honestly, I didn't think you would be Mrs. Cagalli's replacement."

"That in itself is a long story," Kira replied evenly. He relaxed a fraction and sat down with them. So business began.

"This treaty seems to be working as is," Ezalia started. "I don't see anything that needs to be changed."

"True," Robert added. "It also doesn't take much to keep the peace anymore. Our elected Chairman has nothing he wishes to change about this treaty with ORB." The man nodded. "And with the last two renewals Representative Athha hasn't changed anything as well."

"That goes for this renewal as well," Kira assured him. "She actually wants to see evidence that it's not being violated."

Ezalia's eyes widened. Kira paid little mind to the other reactions. "What is that supposed to mean? PLANT isn't violating any part of that treaty."

"Not yet… at least," Kira replied sharply. They fell silent. "I'm getting information about a recent military mobilization within PLANT's politically active colonies. With enough information of it going further, it could easily be considered a violation of the treaty with ORB."

Robert Van Dell glared at him. "That happens to be a military drill to keep them alert and from getting restless. And how would ORB's government know of small details from PLANT's top military officials?"

On the other hand, Ezalia sighed. "So the Oceania Peacekeeping Alliance is still active, I see. Where are your spies this time?"

"Of course," Kira replied softly. "You should know. OPA representatives attend the international political conferences all the time and keep things neat. And if it wasn't for the spy network, the Bay Misunderstanding would have caused more damage than it did. Their job is to do just that, prevent misunderstandings and trickery all around. But with my positions here in ORB, I've left much of the OPA affairs to Desari Fujikawa."

"Oh, so you left everything to Mrs. Fujikawa," Ezalia said, shaking her head in disbelief. "I never thought she and Captain Fujikawa would get married. Anyway, you can keep your spies, Kira. So far, I'm not seeing any damage come of it."

"All I have is facts, Ezalia," Kira said. "I don't have anything else for now. Perhaps you can tell me what's going on."

"It's as Van Dell said," she answered. "It's a simple military exercise. Nothing to it."

"… Does that include MS activation?" Kira countered smoothly. Ezalia faltered and looked at Stowe and Van Dell. "I wouldn't know."

"Rep. Athha and I already spoke about the matter," Kira said. His tone was strong and left little room for argument. "If other countries heard of this, they might think you were planning something. We propose that you shut down your weapons and MS. Keep the other delegates posted on your military exercises. The faster you do that, the faster we can renew this treaty."

Ezalia blinked. That was blunt, she thought. That wasn't all she noticed about Kira now. But the moment was spent on his offer. It was the only thing she could do. "Agreed," she stated. "I'll contact the Chairman immediately. You'll have results in a few days I hope."

Kira nodded and stood. "I hope so as well." They shook hands.

"Perhaps we should arrange to meet again, say in two days, Wednesday," Ezalia said. Kira nodded in agreement.

"Will two PM work?" he asked.

This time Ezalia nodded. "That'll do. Until then, good day."

Kira nodded and they exited the room. A simple meeting it was. And that was all on Kira's agenda for the day. The other meetings were the next couple of days. Kira walked ahead with Ezalia silently to the front of the building. His attention was on his conversation on his cell phone, a small black flip phone.

"Jan, write in two o'clock Wednesday for the treaty renewal," he briskly said. "Also have Desari check in with me tomorrow." Then he flipped the black phone shut and pocketed it inside his uniform jacket. They exited outside the glass double doors into the bright sunlight. Ezalia signaled to their limo.

"So what are your plans now?" Ezalia asked. When Kira looked at her inquiringly, she clarified her question. "It's been forever. I would like to see Akira and Amaya again and catch up."

Kira nodded. "I'm off to pick them up from school now."

"How are they doing?" the older woman asked him. Again, Kira nodded.

"Very well," he replied. "They recently turned 17."

Ezalia laughed. "That must be exciting, having two teenagers on your hands." The limo came to a stop at the base of the short steps. The driver got out to open the door for them.

"Not really," Kira said, his expression softening. "They've never been a problem."

"Lucky one," Ezalia said. "I'll see you soon then."

"All right," Kira nodded. He walked down the stairs with them but walked around the limo to the nearby parking lot. By the time all four of them were in the limo they saw he was in a black Lamborghini, taking off his uniform jacket. They began driving away from the building to the hotel when he pulled out and drove in the opposite direction.

"He's different," Ezalia said.

"This is my first time meeting him," Daniel stated his thoughts. "I've heard many things from him from many people. He didn't seem to be like I heard."

"He didn't smile once," Ezalia said quietly. "He always smiled, or so I thought. I talked with his mother once. Mrs. Yamato went on and on about how expressive Kira was before the war tore Heliopolis apart. She was saddened by the change in him after the war. But that's the Kira I always knew. Now he's changed and I'm sure that his family would hardly recognize him. He even wears a mask."

"You seem fond of him, Ms. Ezalia," Daniel Stowe said.

"He gave a lot to both war efforts," Ezalia said. "From a civilian to a hero at a young age. I respect him like no other."

"True," Stowe said. "What do you think, Ms. Lacus? I thought you knew him."

Lacus tore her gaze to him silently. Robert also waited for her answer. Finally she said, "He's changed. He… hides his emotions more, and… he wears a mask now."

Two days later, the PLANT representatives walked down the hall and through a door as directed. A small plaque read General Yamato on the door front. Inside wasn't the General but someone else entirely unexpected. Or rather, two 'someones'. One sat in the chair behind the owner's desk. She was observing something on the computer screen when she heard the adults enter. The other was leaning back against the wall near the door.

"Is General Yamato here?" Ezalia asked. "We had a meeting at two today."

"He's on his way from another meeting, I believe," the dark haired girl said as she turned. Ezalia looked at her more carefully. The long dark hair cascaded down her back in the softest of waves. Her skin was light and clear. The best feature was her sparkling lilac eyes. She wore a sweet baby doll blouse of a thin light blue material and simple blue flares. A silver heart shaped locket was the only jewelry piece she wore.

"Amaya?" Ezalia asked. The girl's eyes widened.

"You know me?" she asked. Ezalia nodded once. Behind her Lacus's own eyes went wide at she observed the girl…her daughter.

"I remember you only as a one year old baby," Ezalia continued. "For some reason, I doubt you've changed that much. Your father was saying that you've been wonderful."

Amaya blushed lightly and muttered something along the lines of, "He always says that."

The older woman laughed. "He may not look it but I can tell he adores you. He always did. By the way, where is your twin brother?"

"I'm right here," responded a new voice. Everyone turned to see a young man resting right next to the door. "Though I guess that you didn't see me when you entered." He was wearing black church pants with a red, long-sleeved polo tucked in. His standard, rectangular belt buckle was gold with the official Orb insignia engraved in the center. A single, gold, Freedom gundam-shaped pendant was on a black leather thong (not what you may think; look up the original definition) around his neck.

"Akira. I also only remember you as a child," Ezalia said. Again, Lacus's eyes widened as she realized, 'That's my son.' "You've changed to a handsome young man. You look like your father but yet almost like your sister. You truly are her twin."

Akira bowed and said, "I'm honored."

Ezalia turned to Amaya. "Has your father always been so… reserved?"

"Huh?" Amaya cocked her head and blinked.

"I haven't seen him laugh or smile since…forever," Ezalia said. "Is he always like that? And what's with the mask?"

Amaya nodded. "Oh, yes. Once in a while I might get him to smile…maybe laugh. It's been a long time though."

"That must be hard," Ezalia said softly. "I would go crazy if my parents never smiled."

Akira answered Ezalia's second question. "As for the mask, it makes it harder for people to tell what he thinking, as those are his windows to his soul. He removes it on certain occasions, though he always wears it the rest of the time."

"That also must be hard. To have to deal with two different facades," Ezalia said.

To her and the others' surprise, both teens shrugged. "We don't mind. We know him inside and out and we're used to it," replied Amaya.

"You do seem happy," Ezalia said. "It must be a perfect life down here."

Amaya nodded and smiled. "It's the best. I have the best friends ever; live in a beautiful country and home. I have my aunt, uncle, cousins, and my brother. Best yet, I have my daddy. We spend lots of time together. I love it." There in her lilac eyes was that glitter of childishness that made her sweeter.

"The same goes for me," added Akira.

"I'm Ezalia Jule, since you don't remember," she said. "This is Daniel Stowe, Robert Van Dell, and… Lacus Clyne." She was awkward in introducing Lacus. Again, the children surprised her by simply waving and/or smiling, like they knew nothing.

"Hi," Amaya said. "Pleasure," added Akira. The door then opened to reveal Kira.

"Good afternoon. Sorry I was running late. Now, shall we begin?" The children took that as their cue to leave.

Back in her room after a shower and dinner, Amaya opened a leather bound book. The front page was worn a bit. It was entitled "My Promise." Amaya wrote it long ago after a talk with her daddy, which ended horribly. Akira had been there at that moment. Amaya had to ask about her mother. Just a curious question. Kira was saddened and Amaya knew he really loved her and her brother. Her mother was gone, they all said. She didn't know if that meant dead, or just gone. When Amaya asked why, Kira said it was mostly his fault. Amaya grew up over the last few years, thinking on it. He supposedly felt like he couldn't protect her or he failed her. Yet Cagalli bitterly retorted that it was her mother's fault entirely. That she couldn't control herself and had to hurt Kira for petty reasons. Seeing as her mother wasn't there to defend herself, Amaya left it at that. But she also remembered seeing the scars he carried. She wrote sincerely in the first page of her new diary a promise to protect her father in any way she could, along with her brother.

Amaya stared at the bright-eyed woman before her. She was so familiar. Duh… that was her mother. And she now knew why Cagalli meant. Her mother left her father, one of the best people she knew, for a stupid idiot with no honor. She remembered the other day when Kira put himself between her and Lacus, shielding her. Like she needed it! Over the last few days, she saw the pain in her father grow. She was supposed to protect him too!

When she went through that box of photos, she found many of her parents together when they were younger. One picture, framed, stood out as the best. A warm, sunny day on a grassy cliff overlooking Orb's waters. Her mother, dressed in the sweetest lilac dress, stood with Kira behind her. One arm was around her petite waist and the other hand rested on her shoulder. Her own hands covered his. Their heads were rested against one another, smiling sweetly. Strangely there was no Haro or Tori in it. Most of all, it was one of the few pictures of them smiling so freely with nothing in their eyes besides joy. No pain, no scars. What happened to that love, that most simply joy? The corner of the photo read a date. Amaya wouldn't be born until nearly a year later. Dark doubts drifted into her mind. Maybe she and her brother was the cause of their split?

"Was it my fault then!?" Amaya yelled when she met up with the PLANT Representatives in the hallway to their hotel rooms. Lacus drew quiet. Amaya thrust a picture at her. It was the one after they had married. She loved that day, where everything was another time and place. It was only her and Kira. Her heart warmed at the memory. Yet Amaya wouldn't let that settle.

"Every picture showed you two so happy," Amaya ranted. "And there are so little after me and my brother…"

Lacus felt the shards of her heart shatter more. Her own daughter, hating herself for such a reason? Where did she ever get that imagination? Lacus started to shake her head but Amaya wouldn't let her talk.

"Did you only want my daddy to yourself? And when you had us, and he had to take care of us, did you get upset just because he couldn't always give you the attention you wanted!? Is that it?!? You wanted his attention didn't you! And when he couldn't provide, you decided to try to regain that attention by seeking another? Is that it!? Is that why you shattered his fragile soul with this ultimate betrayal!?!? Just because you wanted attention, and you didn't want to even raise your own children!?!?" Amaya was becoming hysterical.

"Amaya! Calm down!" Akira was trying to console her in his embrace. "What's done is done! We have to move forward! The fact that Ms. Clyne left can not be changed! Remember, father even smiled for you more than he did me! He loves us both dearly! What would he say if he heard you spouting such nonsense!?" Akira continued to try and quell the crying girl.

Lacus was really hurt by the accusations, but more at the fact that her own son referred to her as Ms. Clyne instead of mother. "I'm sor –"

"Your 'sorrys' are empty and wasted! You aren't sorry! You never cared! You proved that when you didn't even fight for our custody!"

Lacus turned to Van Dell and sought shelter within his embrace. "Ignore them dear."

"See! You even decide to cower in your stuck-up husband's embrace! You simply can't handle the truth of what I say! You are truly pathetic! And to think, that I have to live with the fact that you of all people was our damn mother!!! And not only that, I VIRTUALLY LOOK LIKE YOU EXCEPT FOR HAIR COLOR AND PERSONALITY!!! You don't even know how hard it was for daddy to overcome that fact and truly love me for me! And not for looking like HIS TRAITOROUS EX-WIFE!!!" Amaya was clutching her chest, a dull pain growing.

"THAT IS ENOUGH, AMAYA!" scolded Akira as he dealt with an increasingly hysterical Amaya. "You've successfully wounded her enough! Now would be a good time to make our exit! You have a heart problem, and you can't stress yourself out! If you do, then you'll end up collapsing!!!"

"That is indeed enough. I will not have you talk down to my Lacus like that!" scolded Van Dell.

"I'm not doing this for you. You are indeed a stuck-up individual with no moral manners and you perceive that you can command us to do as you wish. Well, news for you, we are NOT your children NOR do we consider you worthy of ANY respect. To us, you're nothing more than a cockroach that dares to try and overstep its bounds. Do us all a favor and remain cowering in the darkness that spawned you," Akira calmly countered.

"You –!"

Akira narrowed his eyes and gave a lethal stare. "I dare you to finish that line. Finish it and see what happens to your reputation." He turned to Lacus. "And as for you, Ms. Clyne, I must admit that you have made the poorest decisions. I have come to the conclusion that you must take better care in what you do." He then addressed both of them. "Watch out, Mr. Van Dell, if you can't provide her with attention and love-time, then she might just run to another."

Meanwhile, Amaya continued to spout hateful (though truthful) nonsense. "You are no better than a whore! Once you milked as much as you could from one man, then what's to stop you from doing it again!!! You took advantage of daddy and pretended to help him mend his wounds! But in reality, YOU WERE DOING THE EXACT SAME THING THAT – THAT FLAY-BITCH DID TO HIM!!!!!! YOU'RE NO BETTER THAN SHE!!!" With that said, she bolted down the hall, and down the stairwell, crying uncontrollably and clutching her heart.

"Amaya! Wait!" Akira shouted. He turned to the four representatives and said, "If you want to live a better life, then just completely forget what had transpired here. You're all better off that way, though almost every word said was true." He gave a dark glare to the sobbing Lacus and the offended Van Dell, then to all the guards within the hallway. "Have a good night, Representatives, I need to ensure that my sister won't faint." And he walked straight down the hall to chase after his twin.

'Though he may look young, he certainly managed to lace every word with poison and barbs. And Amaya too, to a lesser extent,' thought Ezalia as she shook off the bad aura that was left.

Hell had broken loose that night. Amaya was missing. Kira was worried sick over her, especially her heart problem. Cagalli forced herself back to work, against everyone's wishes, to take her brother's place in the meetings. She didn't want to think what this would do to Kira if something happened to Amaya.

To Be Continued...

Please Read and Review!

This is an experiment with a fresh and different Lacus. She's been the angel of many stories as well as the good, innocent girl (until bedtime with Kira or whoever she's paired with). This time, Lacus isn't so angelic as she was supposed to have been. What will happen in the end? You'll just have to wait and see.

Major thanks to Elda Aranel for the initial chapter as well as a new idea. (A Flay-like Lacus isn't very often.)

Some Sci-Fi elements will be introduced, but won't really cause a major change within the GS Universe. Also, not too much focus will be on this story at the moment, as The Fallen and Different Reality are the main stories currently being worked on. An update will be occasional.