Together At Last

by Phoenix710

Kira and Lacus are about to marry, and their friends are overjoyed. Before they can begin their new lives together, a group of Blue Cosmos terrorists kidnap Lacus and hold her for ransom, unless Cagalli surrenders Orb and its resources to them. Now, Kira and his friends must rescue Lacus before it's too late. Rated T.

1. New Day, New Joys

Together at Last

Story by: Phoenix710

Summary: With the Second Bloody Valentine War behind them, Kira and Lacus are finally ready to unite their hands, hearts, and souls in marriage. With a week remaining until the ceremony, everything seems perfect, until a remnant cell of the anti-Coordinator terrorist group Blue Cosmos kidnaps Lacus. Now, Kira and the others must once again take their mobile suits into battle to rescue Lacus before the terrorists kill her.

Kira's song: "You're My Everything"-The Temptations

Lacus's Song: "Emotion"-Rie Tanaka

Pairings: Kira and Lacus

Athrun and Cagalli

Mu and Murrue

Shinn and Lunamaria

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters or other items associated with Gundam Seed, Gundam Seed Destiny, or the Gundam franchise in general. All characters, ships, and Mobile Suits are trademarks of Bandai. Hajime Katoki created the Gundam franchise. Note: If you don't like the way I portray the characters, then don't read the story. I'm not going to have my story flamed or insulted.

Chapter 1: New Day, New Joys.

As the sun rose on a beautifully clear morning in the ORB Union, Kira Yamato sat up and stretched, and then he checked the calendar over by his bed. One week from today, February 5th, would be the day he'd been waiting for…the date of his wedding to Lacus Clyne, the lovely pink-haired, blue-eyed angel he'd met shortly after the start of the first Bloody Valentine War in C.E. (Cosmic Era) 71. He had chosen that day in particular since it was her birthday, and he wanted to give her the best gift possible…his hand in marriage. The two had fallen in love shortly before Kira's final battle with the insane Rau Le Creuset, in which Kira had nearly been killed, but instead managed to end the threat of Rau Le Creuset once and for all with his Gundam's beam saber right through Rau's cockpit. He'd been brought back aboard Lacus's ship, the Eternal, by his best friend Athrun, and his twin sister Cagalli, in Cagalli's Strike Rouge Gundam. So much had happened since then…the attempt on Lacus's life by a team of assassins piloting new ZAFT (Zodiac Alliance of Freedom Treaty) mobile suits, the Junius Seven drop, nearly being killed by Shinn Asuka when his Freedom Gundam had been impaled by the anti-ship sword of Shinn's ZGMF-X56S Impulse Gundam, receiving his new and current mobile suit, the powerful ZGMF-X20A Strike Freedom, and finally, ending the war and returning to a peaceful life, following the destruction of the mobile space fortress Messiah and the death of ZAFT Chairman Gilbert Durandal. So many people had died, and Kira still felt sick to his stomach at times for all the blood that had been spilled. However, Lacus had been there to soothe his wounded heart and put his troubled mind at ease. He remembered the wonderful night eight months ago, just a few days after their friends Mu La Flaga and Murrue Ramius had tied the knot, when Lacus had asked him what he planned to do since peace had been restored.

Flashback:

As she stepped out of Kira's Saab Aero X, Lacus accepted Kira's hand, and waited while her boyfriend activated the alarm on his car. With the vehicle secure, Kira gently looped his arm under Lacus's, and the two of them walked into the lobby of the Italian restaurant that Kira had made reservations at…he'd told Lacus that he had a special surprise for her tonight, and she was anxious to see what he had planned.

Kira walked up to the young man at the reservations desk, and he said, "Kira Yamato, and Miss Lacus Clyne. I called and made reservations this morning."

Checking his computer records, the man said, "Yes, Mr. Yamato…and your charming date Ms. Clyne. I've got you reserved for table B-22, on the upper balcony. Head right up those stairs to your right, and a waiter will be with you shortly. Enjoy your meals."

Kira thanked the gentleman, and Lacus smiled, before they both made their way to their table and sat down. Lacus looked out over the bustling city below her, amazed that even after all the damage that ORB had sustained in the war, everything was so close to being back to normal again. Of course…she thought with a smile…Cagalli wasn't the type of person to listen to excuses. As the leader of ORB, she had called in help from several other nations on Earth, along with teams from the Plants, to aid in the rebuilding effort. Engineering-type mobile suits moved debris aside, while others helped to shore up buildings, bridges, and magnetic railways for the high-speed trains. Police-modified M1 Astray mobile suits, along with airborne Murasame's, aided policemen and soldiers on foot in directing civilian traffic, so that the road crews could repair the bombed-out highways and get the nation back up to running at one hundred percent.

Lacus shifted her thoughts to Kira…he'd been through so much, he'd seen people die, he'd been forced to kill others to defend himself, and it had clearly upset him greatly…he despised killing. Even after fighting in two bloody wars, he'd still remained the same kind, honest young man that she'd fallen in love with almost two years ago. After her father had died on the orders of the late Patrick Zala, the genocidal ex-leader of ZAFT, Lacus had been crushed, but Kira had comforted her, promising that he'd always be at her side. She'd vowed the same to him at that moment, and before he'd left to battle Rau Le Creuset for the last time, she'd given him her mother's ring and asked him to return to her, which he had.

She shook herself out of her thoughts when Kira rested one of his hands on hers, and he said, "Lacus, is everything alright?"

Lacus blushed a bit, and she replied, "Oh…yes. I'm fine, Kira. I was just thinking…you've been through so much pain, all the battles you've been through, all the people you've seen die, the ones that you were forced to kill…and yet you still hold on to your dreams of a brighter future…that's why you mean so much to me, Kira…I don't know what I'd do if anything happened to you."

Kira took both of Lacus's hands into his, and he said, "As long as I have you, Lacus, I know nothing's going to happen to me…I have too much to live for. I promised to protect the hopes you have of a peaceful tomorrow for everyone…and I'm never going to leave your side, Lacus…you were there for me when I needed you, and I'll always be here for you, because I love you."

Tears welled up in Lacus's eyes, and she said, "Kira…I-I love you too!!"

Lacus's lips brushed gently against Kira's…and they both had to restrain themselves from going any further, as they were in public. Once they'd pulled away, Kira said, "Lacus, there's something I'd like to ask you…and since tonight is the anniversary of the night you gave me your mother's ring, I think it's only right I give you one in return."

Lacus's eyes went wide, and she had to take a long sip of her ice water when she saw Kira go down on one knee in front of her. He reached into the pocket of his evening coat, and pulled out a small blue box. With one hand, he gently reached over and took hold of hers, and he asked, "Lacus Clyne, will you marry me?"

Lacus pulled Kira into a warm, loving embrace, and she said, "Kira, yes…I'd love nothing more than to be the future Mrs. Lacus Clyne-Yamato. I've dreamed of this ever since I gave you my ring, Kira…and now that you've given me yours, along with your heart, I'll cherish both of them for the rest of my life. I love you, Kira."

Kira slid the ring onto Lacus's left ring finger, and he said, "I love you too, my pink-haired angel."

End Flashback.

Kira grabbed a fresh set of clothes from his closet, and headed for the shower. After he finished rinsing the last of the shampoo from his hair, he dressed, and then he headed down the hall to Lacus's bedroom. He gently knocked on the door three times, and he heard her answer, "I'll be right there, Kira."

After a couple minutes, Lacus opened up, and Kira saw her wearing a lovely white and purple sundress, a white skirt with gold trim, along with her usual gold hairclip. Her blue eyes sparkled with love as she and Kira embraced, neither one of them wanting to let go of the other. Kira said, "Lacus, you are so beautiful…when we're together like this, I feel like I can forget about all the pain I've endured. Your love has healed my heart just as much as your songs have touched my soul. I love you, Lacus…now and forever."

Lacus drew Kira closer and kissed him, only breaking off when they both needed air. She said, "I love you too, Kira. You've had your heart broken so many times, and you've suffered so much pain and cried so many tears. From now on, Kira…I'll be here to keep you from having to cry. I won't ever leave you, Kira…nor will I ever stop loving you."

Kira gently wrapped his arms around Lacus, and then he kissed her again. Once they pulled apart, Kira said, "Lacus, I thought of the perfect song I could sing for you…I might not have the talent you have, but I still want to try."

Lacus smiled, and she said, "Kira, you're wonderful just the way you are, and no matter what, you still make my heart glow when we're together. Besides…I've heard you sing in the shower from outside your door when I walk by, and you sound really good."

Kira blushed, and with a smile, he started singing to the lovely woman that had healed his heart, and in the process, given him her own heart.

'You surely must know magic girl

Cause you've changed my life

It was dull and ordinary

You made it sunny and bright

Now I was blessed the day I found you

Gonna build my whole world around you,

You're every thing good

And you're all that matters to me

When my way was dark and troubles were near

Your love provided the light so I could see

Girl just knowing your love was near

When times were bad kept the world

From closing in on me girl

Baby you're part of every thought I think each day

Your name is in ev'ry phrase my lips say

Every dream I dream is about you honey

I can't live without you

Baby, baby, baby, baby, baby

You're my everything

You're my everything

You're the girl I sing about

In every love song I sing

You're my everything

My winter baby my summer

My fall and spring now

Baby you're part of every thought I think each day

Your name is in ev'ry phrase my lips say

Every dream I dream is about you honey

I can't live without you.'

Lacus pulled Kira close, and she said, "Kira…I can't live without you either, and I'm so happy I won't have to. I'm going to sing one of my favorites for you now, Kira…one that says just how much you mean to me."

Kira sat down on Lacus's bed, and listened to his pink-haired angel's heavenly voice as it carried straight to his heart.

'Whenever I look at you

Your shadow seems to cast a smile

Hiding your tear drops from me secretly

Like you always do

Hope always may be found

In the water's evidence

The loneliness of silence

Oh yes I know that well too

When the future starts to move, racing on

Open up the door, it's what you're searching for

Emotion!

Suddenly, I know this sky

It's the one that's in my dreams

So anxiously my heart resounds, passionate and warm

Emotion!

Secretly, I long to repeat

These dreams I had of you

So quietly, just close your eyes and hold me in your arms

Since I've seen you I sung to you a miracle

I need you in the melody

I sing of truth

When my outline's

Hidden in the mirror's glass

So sad and lonely

Don't you know that I love you?

I can't look back to yesterday

I shudder with this one emotion

Emotion!

Suddenly, cause I want to see

I know that I will risk

Both light and dark

So that I will be able to get through this

Relation!

This I want, to share with you

These feelings that I have

And now he has these honest words

That I say to you

Relation!

Now that inside we all hear

The purest form of truth

That will shine on and never change the Brighter one in you

Emotion!

Suddenly, I know this sky

It's the one that's in my dreams

So anxiously my heart resounds, passionate and warm

Emotion!

Secretly, I long to repeat

These dreams I had of you

So quietly, just close your eyes and hold me in your arms.'

Kira took Lacus into his arms, and he said, "Lacus, you've got such a lovely voice, and I must be the luckiest man on Earth to have you at my side. I couldn't ever find anyone like you Lacus…you've helped me through the most difficult times in my life, made me realize that even though I've done things that I can never take back, I still have those that love and care for me…none more so than you. You truly are an angel, Lacus, and I love you with all my heart."

Lacus rested her head on Kira's shoulder, and she said, "I love you too, Kira…and I can't wait to see everyone else's reactions when they hear of our engagement…Athrun's probably going to need to pry Cagalli off of you."

Kira smiled at that…his twin sister was his closest friend, next to Athrun and Mu. She was fiercely protective of those she loved, and Kira pitied anyone that dared to cross her. She had a temper that caused even hardened soldiers to cringe, and she wasn't afraid to grab someone and knock them on their butt if they either caused pain to someone she loved, or just ticked her off in general. On the other hand, Cagalli was devoted to those that she cared for, none more so than himself, Athrun, and Lacus.

Taking Lacus's hand in his, Kira headed downstairs and started cooking a couple omelets, while Lacus watched the morning news. Once he set the plates down, he poured two glasses of milk and set them on the table, and he said, "How's your omelet, Lacus…I hope I didn't burn it or anything."

Lacus smiled after swallowing a bite of her breakfast, and she replied, "No…it's fine, Kira. This is just how I like it, in fact. My mother used to make them this way when I was little…"

Kira heard Lacus's voice trail off, and he said, "We've all lost someone, Lacus…but I promise you this. You'll never lose me, and I won't ever let you go. If anyone dares to threaten you, I'll be there to keep you safe, no matter what."

Lacus hugged Kira, and then they shared a brief kiss, before Kira moved to the phone and dialed up his sister's cell phone number. After two rings, he heard her on the other end.

"Hello, Cagalli speaking."

Kira said, "Morning, Cagalli. It's Kira. How are you this morning?"

Cagalli replied, "Just fine, Kira. How about you and Lacus?"

Kira looked over his shoulder and smiled, and Lacus smiled back, and then Kira said, "Never been better. In fact…we've both got some wonderful news to share with you. Can you and Athrun meet us over here in about an hour?"

Cagalli answered, "Sure can. I'll see you in a bit. Take care, Kira. Tell Lacus I said hi!!"

Kira heard his sister hang up, and he said, "She certainly sounded happy. How about if you call Mu and Murrue, and I'll call up Shinn and Lunamaria, alright Lacus?"

The pink-haired beauty replied, "Alright. Kira…I can't wait to see everyone's reactions to our engagement…Kira, this going to be so wonderful."

Kira smiled and hugged his fiancée again, before heading into his room to call up Shinn and Lunamaria, while Lacus used the kitchen phone to call up Mu and Murrue.

Kira's room…

Kira dialed the number for Shinn and Lunamaria's house, since the two were living together with Luna's younger sister Meyrin. The younger of the Hawke sisters picked up, and she said, "Hello, Meyrin here. May I help you?"

Kira replied, "Good morning, Meyrin. It's Kira. Do you know if your sister or Shinn might be available?"

Meyrin replied, "Oh…Kira!! Hang on, let me get my sister for you."

After a couple minutes, Kira heard Lunamaria on the other end. She said, "Hi there, Kira. Meyrin said you wanted to talk to me?"

Kira said, "Yeah, I've got some great news I'd like to share with you in regards to my relationship with Lacus. You're invited to join us over here in about an hour. We'll be inviting Athrun and Cagalli too, along with Mu and Murrue. Tell Shinn I said hello, and I'll see you soon, Lunamaria."

Luna replied, "See ya soon, Kira. Bye now."

Kira made a few other calls, namely to some of the others that had helped them out in the past two wars…ZAFT pilot Dearka Ellsman and Archangel CIC (Combat Information Center) operator Miriallia Haw, The Eternal's captain, Commander Andrew Waltfeld, his assistant Dacosta, Ms. Erica Simmons, who had on several occasions kept the Archangel from being blown to bits by helping to repair it, and the three DOM Trooper pilots that had been instrumental in helping to end the most recent war, Hilda Harken, Mars Simeon, and Herbert Von Reinhardt.

Back in the kitchen:

Lacus called up Mu and Murrue's home, and in a couple minutes, she heard Mu's good-natured sense of humor as he replied, "Good morning, La Flaga residence, Mu speaking. How can I help ya?"

Lacus replied, "Good morning to you as well, Mr. La Flaga. How are you and Miss Murrue doing?"

Mu replied, "Never been better. How's my favorite pink-haired princess?"

Lacus smiled, and she said, "Wonderful. Kira and I are both enjoying the peaceful times. In fact, Kira and I have some news to share with you and Miss Murrue. Can you meet us over here in an hour?"

Mu replied, "Sure can, Lacus…oh wait…Murrue wants to say hi. Talk to you soon!"

Murrue's voice came on, and she said, "Lacus, it's nice to hear that you and Kira are doing so well, and I'll definitely be there for your little party. Looking forward to hearing your news, Lacus. See you and Kira soon. Tell him I said hi."

Lacus hung up just as Kira came out, and he said, "I've invited a few other friends too, Lacus…Miriallia and Dearka, the three DOM pilots, and Ms. Erica, along with Commander Waltfeld and Dacosta."

Lacus smiled and hugged Kira, and then they got started preparing the house for their guests.

One hour later…

Kira and Lacus had just finished putting the last of the soda and refreshments on the table, when they heard a knock at the door. Kira opened it, and was quickly greeted by a hug from his sister. She said, "Hi, Kira. I'm glad to see you and Lacus so happy together."

Lacus walked up and hugged Cagalli, and she said, "We are quite happy, Cagalli. How are you and Athrun?"

The blue-haired, green-eyed young man in question walked in just then, and he said, "I'm fine. Good to see you again, Kira. How are you, Lacus?"

Kira smiled, and Lacus said, "We couldn't be happier, actually. I don't think I could love anyone like I do Kira."

Cagalli walked up and said, "Kira, I'm glad to see you finally found someone that you can truly be happy with. If anyone ever gives you or her any grief, let me know…and I'll fold them in half like a piece of luggage. I won't let anyone hurt my brother or my best friend…either of my best friends, that is."

Kira hugged his sister, and Lacus joined in. They'd just broken off, when Lunamaria walked in, followed by her younger sister Meyrin, and then by Shinn Asuka. Lunamaria had deep blue eyes and rich magenta-colored hair, and her younger sibling Meyrin had fiery red hair. Shinn had raven-black hair and red eyes. His attitude had changed completely from the state of turmoil it had been in during the recent war. Thanks to his friends and loved ones, especially Lunamaria, he'd mellowed out considerably. Lunamaria had helped him get through the grief and self doubt that had plagued him after the loss of his family, and the death of his first love, Stella Loussier. Shinn had been bitterly angry with Kira for accidentally killing her when he'd attacked her Destroy Gundam, and had sworn revenge. Now though, the two had reconciled, and he said, "Kira, I want to let you know…everything that happened before, I don't want to think about it anymore, especially not today. I wish you and Lacus the best."

Kira took Shinn's hand and shook it, and Lunamaria said, "I'm glad to see you two mend your fences…and now…who else are we waiting on?"

Meyrin took a sip of her soda, and she said, "How many others do you have coming, Lacus?"

The pink-haired beauty replied, "Mu and Murrue, Dearka, Miriallia, Ms. Erica, Commander Waltfeld, Mr. Dacosta, and the three DOM pilots."

A few minutes later, Lacus noticed Mu's vintage Pontiac Firebird pull up, and the tall blonde-haired pilot headed around to the passenger side and helped Murrue out. The brown-haired captain of the Archangel was good-natured, and she cared deeply for those around her.

She'd become a sort of mother figure to her crew, and now that the winds of peace were blowing, she and Mu had settled down happily.

Kira opened the door, and he said, "Mu, it's great to see you again...and Miss Murrue too. How are you doing?"

Mu replied, "I can't complain...I've got a great job training new mobile suit pilots down at the ORB military academy, and Murrue's teaching at the engineering academy. Plus...the Archangel's still in active service should she ever be needed again. How are you and Lacus?"

Kira smiled, and he said, "I don't think I've ever been happier, Mu. She's an honest-to-God angel, and I could never find someone as special as she is."

Murrue said, "I'm happy for you, Kira...you and Lacus deserve each other, after all you've both been through."

Kira shook Mu's hand, and then he hugged Murrue, before Lacus hugged them both.

Just then, Dearka and Miriallia arrived, with the three DOM pilots following shortly afterwards. Miriallia pulled Lacus into a quick hug, while Dearka took Kira's hand in a firm handshake.

Dearka said, "So, Kira...you and Lacus really have a nice place here...cozy, cheerful, and I love the view of the ocean."

Kira smiled, and he said, "That's one of the reasons we chose it, Dearka. Lacus loves the ocean, and looking out there helps me to center my thoughts. Then again, being with Lacus is all that I could ever ask for."

Miriallia walked up and hugged Kira, and she said, "I know how you feel, Kira. She's someone that'll never come along again, and I think you two were destined to meet. Here...I picked up a little housewarming gift for you two."

Kira unwrapped the gift, and found a new cookbook with easy-to-follow recipes of all kinds. Dearka said, "I hope you like it...that was the only thing we could think of."

Lacus hugged the blonde-haired pilot, and she said, "It's perfect!! Thank you, Miriallia...and you too, Dearka."

The lead pilot of the DOM Trooper team, Hilda, came forward and hugged both Kira and Lacus. She had recently had her injured eye repaired with some of the latest cutting edge medical technology, and so she no longer wore the eye patch that she'd worn in the last war.

She said, "Miss Lacus, I'm happy for you and Kira...you two deserve each other. If you ever need help, we'll be there for you."

Herbert replied, "You bet we will!"

Mars chimed in with, "That goes double here."

Just then, Commander Waltfeld's Ford Mustang pulled up, and he stepped out, followed closely by his assistant, Martin Dacosta. Waltfeld was a tall brown-haired man with a good-natured air around him. A wicked scar covered the left side of his face from his eye on down, caused by his mobile suit exploding around him in the first Bloody Valentine War, after he'd battled Kira's GAT-X105 Strike Gundam in Africa. The two had mended their fences, and Waltfeld now served as the captain of the Eternal, which Lacus's supporters within ZAFT had stolen near the end of the first war. Dacosta was his faithful assistant, and often performed duties such as gathering intelligence when needed.

Waltfeld said, "Good to see you again, Kira...and you as well, Lacus. You two look like you're enjoying the peace and quiet."

Kira put his arm around Lacus's shoulders, and he replied, "It's nice that I don't have to fight anymore...but if I ever have to take up arms to protect Lacus again, there isn't a force in this world that can stop me. I won't let anyone hurt her, ever."

Waltfeld smiled, and then Dacosta said, "I'm really happy for both of you...and in fact, I've got a gift for you. Here, Miss Lacus."

Lacus accepted the first package, and unwrapped a new coffee maker, while Kira accepted a set of designer coffees from Mr. Waltfeld. Kira said, "Mr. Waltfeld...thank you!!"

The older man smiled, and he said, "Don't mention it, kid. Only the best for my two friends. So, is this everyone?"

Just then, Erica Simmons entered, and Lacus replied, "Yes, she's the last person on our list."

Erica was a tall, slender woman with long brown hair. She was the chief engineer of the Morgenroete firm, which had created the Archangel. She said, "Kira, and Miss Lacus...you're looking well. It's good to see both of you again."

Kira shook her hand, and Lacus hugged her gently, before replying, "Thank you, Ms. Erica. I'm glad you were all able to join us here today, as the news Kira and I are about to share is very special...not just for you, our dear friends, but for both Kira and I as well, as it marks a new chapter in both of our lives. Please, make yourselves at home."

Once everyone had gotten themselves comfortable, Lacus walked over and joined Kira by the large ocean view balcony window that made up part of their kitchen. Kira rested one hand on Lacus's shoulder, while holding her left hand with the other one. Smiling as he looked out at his friends, Kira said, "I'm glad you were all able to join Lacus and I for this very special announcement...it means a lot to both of us."

Cagalli smiled as she looked over at her brother, and she said, "What's the news, Kira? Are you and Lacus gonna be moving to a new house?"

Kira smiled, and he said, "No, Cagalli...something much more important. You see, just after Mu and Murrue's wedding, Lacus and I went out to dinner, and while at the restaurant, I asked Lacus a VERY special question. I'll let her fill you in on the rest."

Everyone's eyes went wide in anticipation, and smiles broke out as well...Cagalli had a pretty good idea of what her brother meant, and she could see Athrun smiling too. He and Kira were like brothers, even though they'd found themselves on opposite sides during the two previous wars, they'd still managed to find the truth and re-unite to bring the fighting to an end. She and Athrun had been dating since, and she was hoping that her brother could find the same happiness that she had.

Lacus stepped up, and she said, "As Kira mentioned, he asked me a question...a short one, but it had a VERY special meaning. You see...he asked me if I'd marry him, and I said 'yes'!!"

Lacus held up her left hand and displayed her ring, and she was immediately pulled into a hug by Meyrin, then by Lunamaria and Murrue, as they passed on their congratulations. In the meantime, Cagalli caught Kira totally off guard as she tackled him and hugged him tightly. She said, "Kira...I'm so happy for you!! Take good care of Lacus...only a great guy like my little brother could be lucky enough to win her heart."

Kira hugged his sister, and he replied, "I will take care of her, Cagalli, and thanks for always being here for me...I'm glad to have a sister like you...and Athrun's really lucky to have you in his life."

Cagalli hugged Kira even tighter, until Athrun gently rested a hand on her shoulder. He said, "Cagalli, I think Kira would like to be able to breathe so he and Lacus can be together on their wedding day."

Cagalli blushed a bit, and then Athrun reached down and helped his best friend to his feet. He said, "I'm sorry about that, Kira...Cagalli's just excited to hear about her little brother's engagement...I can't blame her. I'm really happy for the two of you myself, Kira...she's a wonderful young lady, and you really deserve someone special like her. By the way, when are you two getting married?"

Kira replied, "On her birthday, Athrun. February 5th. I'd like to ask you...would you be my Best Man?"

Athrun shook his best friend's hand, and he said, "I'd be honored, Kira...thank you."

Shinn and Mu came over, followed by Commander Waltfeld, Dacosta, and Dearka. Shinn shook Kira's hand, and he said, "Kira, she's one-of-a-kind...you take good care of her and never let her go...then again, what am I saying that for...you won't hurt her or anything like that. Congrats, and best of luck."

Kira replied, "Shinn, thanks. I hope you and Lunamaria have the same good luck whenever you decide to ask her."

Dearka came up next, and Kira shook hands with the blonde-haired pilot. Dearka said, "Kira, you really got a gem there with Lacus. Best of luck, and congrats on your engagement."

Kira shook his friend's hand, and then Mu said, "First me and Murrue, now you and the lovely Lacus. We really are a lucky bunch, aren't we? Kira, you and Lacus are gonna do just fine, 'cuz I know you really do love her, and if ya ever need anything, feel free to ask me. Congratulations, Kira."

Dacosta, being a bit shy, shook Kira's hand and said, "Congrats…and I hope you have a wonderful marriage with each other."

Then came Andrew Waltfeld. He said, "I see the princess has found her knight in shining armor with you, Kira...she's a lucky girl to have someone like you. I hope you have a long, happy life together, Kira...and I'll be around if ya need anything. Congrats."

Meanwhile, Cagalli hugged Lacus, and she said, "Lacus, I'm so happy for you. I don't think Kira could have found anyone better for him than you...ever. I know you'll be happy with him, Lacus...he'll always be there for you."

Lacus hugged her blonde-haired friend, and she said, "I know, Cagalli. I will remain at Kira's side forever, and there's no other man in the world that I could ever love. Will you be my Maid of Honor, Cagalli?"

The blonde pilot of the Strike Rouge replied, "Even if it means getting into a dress, of course I will."

The two girls hugged again, and then Lacus said, "Thank you, Cagalli. I don't think I've ever had a more important friend in my life...other than Kira."

Cagalli looked over at her pink-haired friend with a smile on her face, and she replied, "I know, Lacus...and I'm happy that he found a nice girl like you to spend the rest of his life with. Promise me this...take care of my little brother for me."

Lacus hugged her friend again, and she replied, "I will, Cagalli...no matter what, I'll never let him go, ever."

Mu said, "Hey, I just got an idea...how about we all go celebrate Kira and Lacus's engagement by going out to dinner tonight at that new steakhouse that just opened up? I'll even pick up the tab."

Kira and Lacus both smiled, and Murrue hugged her husband. She said, "Mu, that's such a wonderful idea, and such a thoughtful gift. Every day, you find new ways to remind me of why I love you."

Mu replied, "Hey, Kira's saved the world twice, helped bring two horrible wars to an end, and he made it possible for us to be together, so what else can I do for such a great guy and his beautiful bride-to-be?"

Murrue kissed Mu on the cheek, and she said, "This is just fine, Mu. So, what are we going to do in the meantime?"

Kira gave it some thought, and then he said, "Well, we can all go and do our own thing for a few hours until lunchtime, then I'll make some wonton soup. After that, we can watch a movie at the cinema, and then we can all go out for dinner together."

Shinn said, "I like the idea. How about you, Luna?"

Smiling, Lunamaria replied, "I haven't taken a nice walk on the beach since before I graduated from ZAFT military academy. Would you like to join me, Shinn?"

Looking down at his blue-eyed girlfriend, Shinn replied, "Sounds good to me."

Meyrin added, "Wait up…let me get my bathing suit, and I'll join ya!!"

In the meantime, Miriallia got her camera out and began taking some scenic shots outside of Kira and Lacus's home, since photography was a hobby of hers. Dearka decided to do some tree climbing.

Mu and Murrue found a small section of the beach and sat down under a palm tree, and simply looked out over the ocean.

Shinn was walking with Lunamaria along the shore, enjoying the feeling of the moist sand on his feet, and the warmth of Lunamaria's hand in his. Meyrin was swimming nearby, enjoying herself immensely. She called out, "Shinn, why don't you and sis come in and join me? The water's fine!!"

Shinn and Luna both smiled, and they walked back to the car to grab their bathing suits. Once they'd both changed, they slung their towels over their shoulders, and Shinn said, "Luna, that bathing suit looks great on you…it really brings out your eyes."

Lunamaria blushed, and she said, "Thank you, Shinn. You look really handsome yourself."

Walking back down to the beach, Shinn and Lunamaria both placed their towels on top of the folding beach chairs they'd brought with them, and once Lunamaria had set an extra one up for her sister, they kicked off their sandals and headed into the water. Meyrin swam up to her sister, and she said, "Sis, guess what?"

Lunamaria looked down at her younger sibling, and she said, "What is it, Meyrin?"

Smiling playfully, Meyrin said, "Tag, you're it!!"

With that, Meyrin tapped her sister's shoulder and swam off, and Luna said, "Oh, Meyrin…you are so in for it now."

Smiling, Lunamaria swam off after her sister, and Shinn joined in the happy pursuit.

Athrun was sitting down under a tree with Cagalli, as they looked out over the beauty of the place Kira and Lacus now called home. Cagalli said, "My little brother…I can't believe he's about to get married. Athrun, I don't think I've ever been this happy ever since the time I found out that Kira and I were twins, or when I found out that he was alive at the end of the first war after his battle with that bastard Rau Le Creuset. Honestly…he deserves a sweet, caring woman like Lacus, and she could never hope to find a more wonderful guy."

Athrun put an arm around his girlfriend's shoulders, and he replied, "You're right, Cagalli. Kira's been through hell due to all the fighting he's had to endure, but through it all, he's never lost the qualities that make me glad to call him my friend…and I'm glad to see him and Lacus together…they even helped you and I find our way to each other. I love you, Cagalli."

The blonde blushed, and then she said, "I love you too, Athrun."

The two kissed gently, before getting up and going for a walk.

Kira was walking along with Lacus on their favorite part of the beach, and Kira's eyes went wide as he took in the sight of his fiancée in her swimsuit. He was used to seeing her in the beautiful dresses she wore, but never had he seen her in a swimsuit. The white one-piece suit covered her in all the right places, but it still accented her natural beauty, and the red flower print pattern was perfect to compliment her flowing pink hair. Kira said, "Lacus, I love how you look in that swimsuit…it brings out your eyes so well, and I could never find another woman like you anywhere, Lacus. I promise you I won't ever leave you."

Lacus took Kira's hands in hers, and she said, "You're the most wonderful young man I've ever met, Kira…I know you'll never leave me. I won't ever hurt you either…I couldn't ever love anyone else the way I love you."

Kira and Lacus kissed deeply, before heading into the water for a brief swim until lunch.

When they came back on shore, Lacus's pink ball-shaped pet robot, Haro, came bouncing up towards them, and he said "Lunchtime, Lacus!! Lunchtime!!"

Lacus chuckled at her robotic toy, which Athrun had built for her following their arranged engagement in the first war…she'd been engaged to Athrun Zala, per the wishes of Athrun's father Patrick Zala, and her father Siegel Clyne. After she met Kira, however…she realized that he was the one that she truly loved, and now they were only one week away from being together forever. She bent down and scooped up Haro, before she and Kira headed inside to make lunch.

Kira got out the meat, spices, and the wok, while Lacus got out a can of chicken soup broth, and some noodles. Once she and Kira had their ingredients ready, Lacus poured the broth in around the meat and noodles, while Kira added the wontons. Lacus then added the spices and seasonings, namely Sesame oil, soy sauce, and ginger. Once everything was ready, Kira set the timer on the wok for ninety minutes. While they waited, the young couple decided to have a look at the movie listings. Kira said, "Here's the listings for the nearest theater, Lacus…they've got 'Clash Of The Titans', 'The Bounty Hunter', 'The Perfect Game', and 'The Losers'.

Lacus looked over the descriptions for each movie, and Kira knew they'd need to find something they could all agree on…Lacus didn't like horror films, and Cagalli would more than likely want to see one of the action films. Kira said, "How about if I go and get everyone, and then we'll all decide together, alright?"

Lacus smiled and kissed the young man she loved, and she said, "Kira, I'll watch the soup while you're gone."

Kira smiled at his pink-haired fiancée, before heading out to bring in the others to decide on which movie they wanted to see.

Ten minutes later…

Kira returned with the others, just as Lacus was finishing pouring some of the wonton soup into each of their bowls, along with a glass of iced tea. Cagalli said, "Kira, that soup looks great!! I didn't know you could cook like that."

Kira smiled, and he said, "Lacus helped me quite a bit, Cagalli…and I can cook pretty well on my own. The reason Lacus and I wanted to talk to you all together is so we can all decide on a movie that everyone can agree on. Here…I've got the listings circled for the closest theater."

After another ten minutes of discussion, the group of friends decided to go see 'Clash Of The Titans'…it had plenty of action in it to satisfy Cagalli, and from the description, there wouldn't be over-the-top amounts of horror or nudity. With their decision made, they sat down for lunch. Cagalli spooned up a bit of her soup and slid it into her mouth, and her eyes went wide as the blend of flavors sent her taste buds into overdrive. She said, "Kira, did you cook this? It's delicious!!"

Kira swallowed a mouthful of his own soup, and he said, "Lacus helped me with the broth, and she added the seasonings…I did chop up the pork and add the noodles though, along with making the wontons. I'm glad you like it, Cagalli."

Athrun said, "I have to agree with Cagalli…I've never had wonton soup this good before, and to share it with friends like you, makes it even better."

Kira smiled at his best friend, and Cagalli hugged him. Lacus said, "Thank you both…it means so much to be able to have such a wonderful lunch with such good friends."

For the next twenty minutes, the group of friends sat and talked over Kira and Lacus's homemade wonton soup, and then Kira brought out some Italian Ice for dessert.

When they were finished with their lunch, Lunamaria and Cagalli gave Kira and Lacus a hand with clearing the table, while Mu and Shinn did the dishes. Once the cleanup was finished, Kira called ahead to reserve tickets for each of them, and the other guys headed out to start their cars, while the girls went to get ready. When everyone was set to go, they headed off to the theater.

Orb Gold Star Cinema, thirty minutes later…

When Kira and the others pulled up, they walked into the lobby of the cinema, and Kira quickly found the ticket booth. He said, "Excuse me, miss. My name's Kira Yamato, and I called regarding tickets for 'Clash Of The Titans' for myself and my group."

With a smile, the young woman said, "Yes, Mr. Kira Yamato. I've got you and your party in theater six. Enjoy your movie."

Kira accepted the tickets and passed them out to everyone, and then he and the others headed over to the concession stand. Kira paid for a small popcorn and soda for Lacus, and a medium popcorn with soda for himself, and Shinn bought snacks not only for Lunamaria, but also for himself and even Meyrin, surprising the younger Hawke sister. She said, "Thanks, Shinn!!"

Shinn replied, "No problem, Meyrin…you're my friend, and my girlfriend's sister…that makes you family."

Lunamaria hugged her boyfriend, and when everyone had their snacks, they headed into the theater. After making their way up a couple flights of stairs, they found a row of seats that they could all sit together. Lacus took hold of Kira's hand as the movie started, and when the hero of the film nearly died at the hands of the Kraken early on when his family's boat was smashed, Lacus hugged Kira tightly. Cagalli thrilled at the exciting fight scenes, especially the battle against the gigantic scorpions. Halfway into the movie, Lacus whispered, "Kira…I'll be right back."

Kira hugged his beloved angel, and watched her head out.

As Lacus came out of the restroom, two tough-looking guys stepped in front of her. Both were at least six feet or more, and the bigger of the two said, "My, aren't you a pretty little thing? Hope you're not here alone, darling…I can sure show ya a good time."

Lacus backed away, and she said, "Listen, I'm here with my fiancé, and my other friends are here to…my fiancé's sister is the leader of this country…maybe you've heard of her, Cagalli Yula Athha? If you don't want trouble, then please let me go. Otherwise, you'll be in hot water when they find you trying to hurt me."

The second thug said, "She's too chatty for my tastes, Visch…but that ring looks really nice. How 'bout ya hand it over, and I won't cut off that hair of yours."

Lacus tried to get away, but the first thug grabbed her arm. The second goon reached for Lacus's ring, and looked it over. She said, "Please…my fiancé gave me that…let me go, please." The thug looked her up and down, and he said, "Ya know…you're really starting to make me mad, little girl. Just give me your ring, your watch, and your wallet…unless you want a haircut. He was about to pull his knife, when Cagalli said, "GET YOUR HANDS OFF MY FRIEND, YOU BASTARDS…BEFORE I KICK BOTH OF YOUR SORRY BUTTS DOWN THE STREET!!"

Looking over to her right, Lacus spotted Cagalli glaring daggers at the two punks. In relief, she shouted, "CAGALLI!!"

The first thug readied his fist to backhand her, but Cagalli came in and caught him with a vicious jab to the ribs, doubling him over. She smashed her knee into his nose, pulping it like a ripe melon, before knifing her elbow into the side of his head, dropping him like a puppet without strings. The second goon said, "I don't know who you think you are, messing with me and my pal here, you little punk. If you're supposed to be a girl, then why don't you act like one."

Cagalli's light brown eyes narrowed, and she said, "What did you say, you worthless louse?"

The punk said, "I said quit dressing like a man and learn how to be a proper lady…and why are you so worried about her…you a closet-lesbian or something?"

Cagalli shouted, "NOBODY CALLS ME A CLOSET LESBIAN AND LIVES, YOU BASTARD!! LACUS IS MY FRIEND, AND MY TWIN BROTHER'S FIANCEE!! IF HE FINDS OUT ABOUT WHAT YOU TRIED TO DO TO HER, YOU'LL BE WISHING I'D STRANGLED YOU ALREADY!!"

Kira had heard his sister yelling from inside the theater, and he made his way to the lobby. When he got there, he spotted one goon down on the floor, blood pouring from his nose and mouth, and Cagalli on the verge of exploding on the second thug, who was holding Lacus rather roughly. Kira came in from behind and got the goon around the neck in a vise-like grip with one arm, and then he stabbed his fingers into the thug's left arm, hitting one of the pressure points and causing him to release Lacus. The young pink-haired girl ran over and stood next to Cagalli, and Kira said, "I don't know what you think you planned on doing with her, but let me tell you this much. Nobody is gonna hurt Lacus and get away with it, do you hear me? I love her, and anybody that tries to cause her ANY harm is gonna pay."

Kira flipped the thug over his shoulder, and then he bashed his fist over the man's head, knocking him out. Lacus ran up and hugged him, and he pulled her close. She said, "Kira, thank you so much…if you and Cagalli hadn't gotten here when you did…those two men were trying to rob me, and the one that Cagalli knocked out…he was acting like he wanted to…rape me."

Kira said, "Lacus, I won't let anyone touch you like that…I'll always be here for you…me and Cagalli both."

Cagalli spotted movement out of the corner of her eye, and she saw the first goon draw his knife and move toward her brother. She came in from the side and caught his wrist, snapping it like matchsticks, before brutally wrenching the elbow and driving her knee into his ribs. The punk crumbled to the floor, and Cagalli smashed her foot into his groin. The man screamed, and Cagalli finished him by punching him in the face, knocking him out. She said, "Don't you ever try and hurt my brother OR my best friend, you piece of scum!!"

The police arrived just then, and after taking statements from Kira, Lacus, and Cagalli, they handcuffed the two thugs and led them away. Lacus hugged her fiance and her best friend tightly, and she said, "You two are both so wonderful in so many ways…Kira, Cagalli…I am so blessed to have friends like you. Thank you both."

Kira kissed Lacus, and Cagalli shared a hug with her friend, before they headed back into the theater. They arrived just in time to see the battle down in the underworld against Medusa, and the final battle against the Kraken and Hades. When the movie ended, the group made their way outside, and Athrun said, "What was all the ruckus about, Kira?"

Kira said, "Two thugs tried to rob Lacus at knifepoint, and one of them was even looking at her like he wanted to rape her, but Cagalli dropped the first one, and that was when I ran out there…I knew Lacus was in real trouble. I put the second punk down, and then the first one tried to sneak up on me with a knife, but Cagalli beat him to it. I don't think he'll be having kids any time soon."

Athrun winced at that statement, as did Shinn and Mu, along with the other men. Dacosta said, "Are you sure you're alright, Miss Lacus?"

Lacus smiled, and she replied, "I'm fine, thanks to my best friend and the most wonderful fiancé any girl could ask for."

Mu said, "Well, I gotta tell ya, I'm glad you're alright, Lacus…if I ever catch anyone trying to hurt you like that again, I'll use 'em as target practice for my Akatsuki's beam rifle.

Together, they all headed for the restrooms, cleaned up, and headed out to the nearby Oceanfront Steakhouse for dinner, aside from Waltfeld, Dacosta, Miriallia, Dearka, Erica, and the DOM Trooper Pilots, since they needed to get home and get some sleep.

Oceanfront Steakhouse, twenty minutes later…

When the group arrived, they were immediately greeted by one of the wait staff, and escorted to a pair of booths with long tables. Once they were seated, they started looking over their menus. Kira looked over at Lacus, and he said, "You look really pretty in that dress, Lacus…I love how your hair and eyes sparkle in the light."

Lacus blushed, and she said, "You're really handsome too, Kira. Thank you again for saving me back at the theater…you and Cagalli both."

Cagalli said, "Don't mention it. You're gonna be my sister-in-law soon, and I already think of you as family. I'm not gonna let anyone harm you or my brother. Those idiots were lucky I was in a good mood."

Kira and Athrun both shuddered at the thought…they'd both seen and heard Cagalli's temper, especially in the last war when dealing with the idiot son of the Seiran family for hiding the terrorist leader Lord Djibril inside ORB's territory. She'd given him the chance to come clean, but due to his repeated refusals, she'd punched him in the jaw right in front of the entire staff at ORB Defense HQ, and then she'd ordered them to take him away. She had a soft side too, but only those that she loved and trusted were privy to that. When their waiter came, they each ordered a salad to start, and Kira decided to split a small steak with Lacus. Athrun and Cagalli did likewise, while Mu decided on a medium steak, which he and Murrue split between them. Shinn, Luna, and Meyrin split a large steak between the three of them. Before everyone started eating, Mu stood up, and he said, "I'd like to propose a toast, to a pair of wonderful young people that I thank God above for being lucky enough to meet. I wish you both the best of luck on your upcoming marriage, Kira Yamato, and Lacus Clyne…two of the best friends anyone could ever ask for."

Athrun said, "I'd like to second that…I've known Kira since he and I were children, and even though we ended up on opposite sides of the previous two wars, he made it possible to see the right path to travel on for the rest of my life, and in doing so, allowed me to meet Cagalli. Kira, you're a wonderful friend, and I wish you all the best. Lacus, I've known you for a long time too, and even though we were once engaged, I don't harbor any anger towards you or Kira…in fact, I could tell how much you two loved each other starting just before the first war ended. Take good care of Kira, Lacus…I know he'll be there for you whenever you need him, and he'll always love you. Best of luck, my friends."

Cagalli stood up, and she said, "Kira, from the day I found out that we were twins, I vowed that I would always be there to help you. You and Lacus are not only my two best friends…you're family, and I love you both. Congratulations, and I wish only the best for you both."

Kira and Lacus both shook hands with their friends, and when they'd all had their dinners, Mu took care of paying the tab as he'd promised.

When they made their way to the parking lot after dinner, Cagalli said, "I had a great time out today, Kira, and I hope you and Lacus have a good night. I'll see you tomorrow, Lacus, so we can go shopping for our dresses."

Lacus hugged her friend, and she said, "Goodnight, Cagalli. Take care, Athrun."

Athrun gently hugged her, and he said, "Have a good night, Lacus. Kira, thanks again for inviting us over, and for lunch. Take care, and I'll see you tomorrow."

Kira shook his best friend's hand, before repeating the gesture with Mu and Shinn. Lacus hugged Murrue, and then she did likewise with Lunamaria and Meyrin, before they all got into their cars and headed back home.

Forty minutes later…

When Kira and Lacus arrived home, they made their way onto the beach for a nice moonlight stroll before turning in. Lacus looked up at the night sky, and she said, "The stars are so beautiful, Kira…like a giant Christmas tree in the sky."

Kira smiled at his lovely fiancée , and he said, "They are beautiful, Lacus…but not anywhere near as lovely as you. You're an angel, Lacus…perfect in every way. You've got the most beautiful voice I've ever heard, your eyes are like polished gemstones, and when I hold you next to me, I feel like I can just completely forget all the pain and grief from the past. Lacus, I was blessed on the day I met you, because you saved my heart and soul. I love you, Lacus Clyne, and I always will."

Lacus wiped tears away, and she said, "Kira, no matter what, you'll always have a home in my heart, and these arms will always be open to you, and only to you. I could never love anyone else, Kira…you've been here to help me realize my dreams, and now, I'll be here with you for the rest of time. I love you, Kira Yamato."

The two shared a long, deep kiss under the moon, until they both needed air. When they broke off, they headed inside and brushed their teeth, and Kira then walked Lacus to her bedroom. He said, "Sleep tight, my angel. I'll see you tomorrow."

Lacus kissed Kira gently, and she said, "Pleasant dreams, Kira. I'll see you in the morning."

The two kissed once more, before heading to bed, dreaming of the day when they could fall asleep together after uniting their hearts and souls in the eyes of God.

Next Chapter: Kira plans a special dinner for himself and Lacus at home, and to pass the time, he and the other guys head out to have some fun, namely taking in a football game, going skydiving, and then a quick trip to pick up their tuxedoes for the upcoming wedding. Meanwhile, Lacus and the other girls head out for some shopping, but disaster strikes when they stop to have lunch before heading back home. Several Blue Cosmos terrorists swoop in, and while most of them are either incapacitated or killed, three of them manage to grab Lacus and escape in the confusion. Cagalli calls up her brother, and they meet up to devise a rescue plan. Be here next time for Chapter Two: A Good Day Gone Bad.