Author's Note: I dedicate this to the poor homeless person who may rest in peace. Saves a woman from harm, yet no one saves him in return.
Before I uploaded this chapter, I realized that they removed the dashes I use to separate things... Poo... So I'm going to graduate to quotation marks.
Due to the massive volume, some characters will be too busy to make it into the plot... -whispers- sorry!
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Italics - thoughts
Words in italic - to emphasize
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Disclaimer: I, Candide Avedo, do not own anything that has to do with Gundam Seed. Or any other commercial franchise that I fail to mention.
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Maybe, Just Maybe
'
Shiho impatiently fidgeted in her new uniform. There really wasn't anything notably wrong with it; the uniform just reached past her knees, which was a clothing concept that was still new to her. It was strangely feminine, despite the black and purple colour. Lacus was correct when she said that the purple would bring out the brown shade of Shiho's hair. The sad part was now her legs don't seem to know what to do with themselves.
Lacus's most important tip about wearing skirts, is that you close your legs by crossing your ankles together. Therefore, she would look fairly composed, feminine, and confident. Key points Shiho wanted to hit while wearing this attire.
Shiho pressed her nose to the window, staring at the overwhelming view of the Earth, gradually getting closer. Stars shone like miniature fragments of glistening crystal in the distance. She was used to seeing outer space, but it looked very serene, especially when the last remnants of the war just floated lifelessly by.
The shuttle rocked casually as it steadily headed for it's destination. It has already been 12 hours- there should be approximately 6 hours until they were expected to land in Orb, where a private transportation would be there. There should be a minimal amount of people waiting at this time, a sum of at least 10 reporters, maybe less. Shiho's job was to make sure no one would be too close to their party as they made their way to their transport.
''Are you excited about getting to see Orb?''
Shiho wrenched her eyes away from the window and turned to the voice. Kira Yamato was sitting across the aisle, cradling a sleeping Lacus on his shoulder. She nodded, relaxing into her seat. ''I have a father that lives in Orb.'' Kira's expression was pleasantly surprised. ''You'll get to see him?''
Shaking her head, Shiho gave a small supportive smile. ''He's too busy usually.'' There was just no need to bother her father, he usually said he was too busy. So whenever she goes back home to Orb (which was only one time since the war ended), Shiho's father wasn't there. Shiho did care about her father, but it was just that he was always busy, focussed on making money.
He looked thoughtful at that, fidgeting a moment. ''I have to make time for my parents. They know I'm busy, but they really like it when I make the effort to at least see them for a bit.'' Kira glanced at the top of Lacus's head. ''They also said I could bring Lacus sometime.'' He returned Shiho's smile. ''Since the war ended, now we have time to spend with people that really do matter.'' No doubt he was right. But Shiho had another brief glimpse in the back of her mind of who she wanted to spend a little more time with. Which is counterproductive of her original plan of putting those thoughts in the back-burner for now.
A yawn came from Kira's direction, and Lacus sat up, looking puffy-eyed. Her boyfriend however, looked at her tenderly. ''There's still time to take a longer nap Lacus.'' Kira whispered almost inaudibly, yet Lacus only smiled.
''Do your parents really want to meet me again, Kira?'' Lacus said, a visible blush on her cheeks. Sometimes almost child-like, Lacus was really genuine in all dimensions. She turned to Shiho, peeking around Kira. ''I hope you like where we're staying, Shiho. There's a few malls I would love to visit with you.''
Shiho could only smile in return. Malls? They were alright, however Shiho preferred outdoors. Maybe it would be a much better experience to go shopping in the mall with Lacus. She warmly greeted Shiho upon their meeting before boarding the shuttle; and made no effort to hide the idea that she hired Shiho as more of a personal company, rather than an assistant. People were usually busy, so whenever Lacus had free time and needed another girl to chat with, Shiho would most likely be at arm's reach. Afraid that Kira wouldn't like the idea of having her, Shiho was surprised when he was relieved that there was no worry that Lacus would ever get bored with her around.
In the corner of her eye, she watched the two exchange tender glances, and smiles. Everyone had no doubts in their minds that they were a couple considered perfect.
'
The shuttle landed at 2200 hours. By this time, the three of them were exhausted, despite all the naps they had taken prior to arrival. Shiho scurried into the shuttle restroom before landing, and quickly washed her face to feel refreshed. Being alert was essential. It proved to be as they reached the terminal entrance, where a few reporters were indeed crowding around their group and snapping pictures. Thankfully there was no incident to report upon their arrival, so the three of them relaxed into the soft seats of their car which was making it's way to the Attha estate.
Despite the late hour, lights were fully lit within the Attha home. A security guard eyed their vehicle as he spoke into the walkie-talkie in his hand. It was a highly secured area, with look-outs atop the estate roof as well. Lacus and Kira looked eager to get out of the car, Lacus moving her head from side to side to get a better look at the entrance.
''I miss her so much Kira.'' Lacus said, her eyes illuminated with excitement. Her hands were clasped tight on her lap, relaxing at once when Kira placed his hands over hers. ''It's just too bad we got here at a late time.''
''We're here, so there isn't anymore waiting to do.'' They came to a stop in front of a massive entrance, where towering double doors were open, and many uniformed men and women lined the entrance in patient attention. Guards lined the driveway near their car, their guns poised readily. ''See, she's even made people stay up just for us.'' he chuckled. Kira opened his door, and got out. He leant back inside the car, reaching his hand out to Lacus. ''Come Lacus, she'll be so excited.''
Lacus laughed, removing herself gracefully from the car. Behind her, Shiho made sure that Lacus's dress hadn't caught onto anything, before getting herself out of the car. Once outside, however, she had a better view of the highly-detailed work of the Attha residence. Bright lights from the high ceiling of the foyer filtered to the outside, bathing them in its glow. The men and women arranged in attention to their arrival smiled shyly, avoiding their eyes. A yell was heard, which brought their attention to the inner depths of the large building.
''Kira! Lacus! You're finally here!'' Cagalli Yula Attha ran out, all formalities briefly forgotten. Her outfit that demanded formality in every situation was of no matter in his heartwarming reunion. She hugged her brother tightly, before turning her attention to Lacus, who greeted her with the same enthusiasm. ''I thought you'd changed your mind, and get here tomorrow!'' Cagalli joked, as she straightened her outfit out.
''Then you wouldn't sleep at all tonight.'' Athrun Zala hadn't been too far away, looking formidable in his admiral's uniform. He grinned and dodged swiftly as Cagalli playfully aimed a punch on his arm.
''Athrun!'' smiled Lacus, greeting the figure behind Cagalli, who was smiling at them in return. ''We couldn't get here any sooner.'' Lacus blushed, as Kira held her hand. She turned look behind herself and Kira to look at Shiho, who immediately blushed. ''Cagalli, Athrun, this is Shiho. She'll be working with us for a while at Orb.''
Shiho could feel her face flush even further, as the Orb's ''Lion'' and Athrun Zala, whom she has heard countless stories of. There was no way she could be deemed worthy of such company. Suddenly she was aware of all eyes on her as she gave her best salute, to which Cagalli and Athrun returned. Shiho was surprised when she met with an outstretched hand.
''Well, since you're staying here for a while, make yourself at home.'' said Cagalli, as Shiho shook her hand. ''Just don't get lost, okay?'' she teased. Athrun reached out his hand as well.
''If you need pointers on how to deal with Miss Attha, especially if she says anything strange, just ask me, okay?'' he gave a firm handshake, and Shiho could only nod to both of them in reply. She couldn't help but feel repeatedly intimidated; people that helped shape the peace that is now.
Cagalli lead them through the front doors, stopping within the large foyer. They all paused, expecting a tour of the confusing-looking room, with many hallways found in either direction. ''This is generally the entrance.'' she gestured through a large stretch of hallway to one side. ''That is the corridor that leads to the conference room we will be going to tomorrow. It leads out to a courtyard, and across from that is the room.'' Cagalli gestured to the hall adjacent to that, faintly lit with overhead lights that were alternated between on and off. ''Sorry, the hallway to the kitchen is a little dim, because someone apparently turned those lights half on/off, but that's where you'll find food and other necessities.'' Cagalli flicked on a few switches found fixed to the wall, fully lighting the hall. She turned to the large staircase that wound up to an open second floor. ''That's where the bedrooms should be. I'll have someone fix Shiho's room next to yours.'' Suddenly, a smirk came to her face, directed at her brother. ''I've got a room set for Kira, on the other side of the wing away from Lacus's.''
A horrified look crossed the songstress's face, making Cagalli momentarily laugh. Athrun shook his head at the joke, and Kira blushed. ''Cagalli that's not very funny. You'll make Lacus go into shock.'' said Kira, wrapping his arms around Lacus.
''Can't resist.'' replied Cagalli, shrugging. ''Alright. Well, Lacus, Kira, your rooms are the same as your last stay.'' she paused, as various men and women in uniforms walked inside now, shutting the large door behind them. ''There's walking surveillance at the first floor, and cameras on the second. If you get hungry, there's room service.'' Turning to Shiho, she added, ''Room service is available to you too, Shiho. But really the kitchen's a free-for-all if you want to do something yourself.'' Cagalli pointed to couple of uniformed women carried and pulled their belongings up the stairs. ''They've taken your belongings up to your room for you.''
''Thank you Miss Attha.'' replied Shiho, making Cagalli wince, and Athrun chuckle appreciatively. The personnel were well dispersed now, leaving just the five of them.
''It's Cagalli. Attha happens when I'm at work.'' she glanced at Athrun and Kira. ''Alright, I guess you two will want to do some guy things. I'm going to take Shiho and Lacus, and show them to their rooms.''
Athrun and Kira went ahead to another hallway, while Cagalli, Lacus, and Shiho headed up the stairs. Cagalli went into full-conversation with Lacus about the past few months, filling her in on any minor changes that were made. There was not much to report, unless you made a big deal about the minor protests a few naturals were demonstrating, all serving to remind the people of Orb that Blue Cosmos was not to be easily forgotten. Cagalli continued to report, that whoever was within her council had a connection with Blue Cosmos was immediately sacked, and taken to jail. Lacus expressed her concern on how the general population was getting along, to which Cagalli replied was about 75% positive. Underground activity was hinted here and there by Athrun, who was investigating leads whenever he had a chance to.
Meaning Cagalli rarely let him out of her sight.
Shiho smiled inwardly to herself. Cagalli was certainly making no effort to hide her feelings now. It was as though she was making up for the time apart they had, and comprehended that there was no point in waiting. Lacus was no different; whatever the chance they had now, it would make sense to take advantage of it. To love when you feel it, and to be loved when you wanted to be. Undeniably depressing to have a few marriage proposals to people she didn't even know about be as close to love as she was ever going to get. Admiring someone and being in their servitude without them knowing you exist doesn't count right?
Forgetting she wasn't alone, Shiho groaned out loud, piquing Cagalli's and Lacus's interest.
''Are you alright, Shiho?'' asked Lacus, concern written all over her face. ''Do you not like where your room is?''
Shiho blushed deeply, as Cagalli's expression mirrored Lacus's. She rummaged madly through her brain, looking for an answer. ''Sorry, I just thought I forgot something, but I didn't.'' Shiho blushed. No one really needed to know what she was thinking about, specifically something as trivial as pale hair and piercing eyes...
''Well Shiho, here's your room.'' pointed Cagalli, as Shiho almost passed it, being so absorbed in thought. ''Lacus will be alright for now; we'll just be inches of wall away from each other. Tomorrow's a big day, so lets all get well-rested.'' she stared at Lacus with a very serious expression. ''That means you have to rest and forget about Kira tonight Lacus.''
Shiho ducked out of que, listening to the two have a friendly bicker.
'
Despite it being well past midnight, Shiho couldn't find the desire to fall asleep yet. Not even the serene colour of her room could get her to sleep, not even the four-poster with it's plush comforter, and puffy pillows. The culprit most likely would be the empty plates of food she had delivered from the kitchen. Needing air, Shiho stepped out onto the balcony of her room, inhaling deeply. The air smelled much different here, than in PLANTs. A certain fragnance that is synonymous with the early morning dew found on the grass, or the scent that comes after a long rain. There was something that was so different in Earth. Everything felt aged; full of hidden untold stories, all worn away by time, resulting in a beautifully grown outcome. Shiho leant against the stone balustrade made of dark granite, thankful for the quiet.
That quiet however, wasn't so welcome anymore, especially when it amplified all the buzzing that went on in Shiho's mind.
What are you doing now, Yzak? Probably still working at this time. The stack of paperwork on his desk looked brutal. I wonder if he'll want me to come back one day. Not that it matters anymore. Maybe I expected too much. I wasn't even supposed to think like this.
If Shiho were to truly be honest with herself as she knew she had to be, she'd know that no matter how hard a wish or a hope was made, everything would still be the same. Once Shiho is ready to admit that she actually did like Yzak Jule (even if just a bit), there wouldn't be so much angst going around in her head.
Just a small like then. A small smile played upon her lips as she blushed. She could keep that as her little secret then; since it gave her peace of mind, she can allow herself that little indulgence.
Shiho sat down on the stone floor of the balcony, wrapping her arms around her knees. Crickets chirped around the ground below, and the moon shone on the lone figure thinking about a man she figured would never think twice about her.
'
The morning arose too early for Shiho's liking. A ray of sunlight peeked through the shut drapes; hello, Tuesday. Lacking sleep, she had to suffice with a hot shower, then reinforcing that with a good espresso. Lacus's meeting was to be at 0800 that day, with a lunch after the meeting. Her job was to be Lacus's escort through the courtyard of Cagalli's estate, and stand behind her along with Kira as Lacus met with Orb representatives. Then, she and Kira were to stand outside the conference room for about 2-3 hours, until it was all over. A whole lot of waiting was on the horizon.
Shiho quickly grabbed the second uniform set she brought with her, slipping her flat shoes on following that. She then tied her hair in it's usual do, and rechecked at the mirror if there was any sleep in her eyes that she happened to miss. Shiho doubled back as she almost forgot to pack her handgun- the one she had many times practicing with, yet rarely ever used.
Voices could be heard outside already, sounding as though in a middle of a deep discussion.
''You look beautiful, don't worry.'' came Kira's voice in a soothing tone.
''I look horrible, Kira, I don't know how you can look at me and not laugh.'' replied Lacus, who sounded terribly worried.
Shiho opened her door to just a crack; Kira was trailing a pacing Lacus, who has the appearance of being in a state of panic. Nothing looked wrong, Lacus's uniform didn't look anything out of the ordinary. She opened it completely and shut the door audibly, making Lacus and Kira turn to her automatically. ''Good morning.''
She almost backed away in surprise as Lacus descended upon Shiho, with a pleading expression on her face. ''Shiho, please tell me the truth.'' Lacus pointed to a small spot on her face. ''This pimple isn't so noticeable, right?'' On the corner of her eye, Shiho saw Kira looking defeated.
''It's not noticeable, Lacus. I don't think the cameras will zoom very close to your face.'' Shiho answered and Lacus contemplated on that thought. A sheepish smile appeared on Lacus's face. ''I'm sorry for making a fuss guys. I only get so concerned with making sure I make the proper first impression.'' she turned to Kira with an apologetic look on her face. ''You must think I'm so silly.''
Kira only kissed the top of her head, and gestured to the staircase down the hall. ''It's a feminine thing, Lacus. Let's go, Cagalli's waiting downstairs, I think.'' He led her down first, and Shiho followed, smiling at the two. Kira was so patient and always willing to understand what Lacus meant, and whatever she was going through. Someday, maybe someday...
The morning hustle and bustle of the Attha household was in full swing at around 0800 hours. Routine tasks such as food deliveries and early housekeeping were found in any direction. Patrolling officials saluted in respect as Lacus arrived at the bottom of the steps. There, Athrun and Cagalli were standing by, looking relieved to see them.
''Thank god you're here.'' Cagalli extracted herself from the crowd of her own escorts, peeking at Lacus's face. ''It doesn't look that bad, from what Athrun told me.''
Lacus blushed. ''Athrun told you?'' She turned to Athrun, who attempted to look innocent.
''Because Kira told him.'' answered Cagalli, and Kira blushed as well. ''You weren't supposed to tell her.'' he whispered.
Cagallis looked unconcerned, and went back with her escorts. ''We'll just get on with this, since I'm kinda hungry already.'' She began walking down the hall towards the exit to the courtyard, where they were crossing to get to the conference room. Athrun fell a few steps behind her. Lacus would then come after, with Shiho and Kira a few steps behind; all the remaining members of Orb's council were supposed to waiting there for their arrival.
The courtyard had been decorated with beautiful flowers. A limestone pathway led from the Attha residence to the conference room, just a minute's walk away. Arbutus trees lined the path they walked upon, with magnolia trees surrounding a large limestone fountain decorated with a lion statue. Twittering birds were playing in the water, splashing gaily.
Shiho absentmindedly entertained the idea of visiting the garden later, when she had the chance.
However, as she looked around, a small amount of movement between the trees made her pause. Shiho nudged Kira, who looked at her questioningly. ''Kira. I don't feel right all of a sudden.'' she whispered and he frowned, as though trying to sense what she was sensing. Kira then walked beside Lacus this time, offering her his arm. Lacus, unknowing, smiled at him warmly.
Shiho felt the hair on her neck stand up slowly, her woman's intuition screaming at her. She looked around carefully, trying to shake that feeling away. Looking around to her left, she turned just in time to see a glint of silver between two juniper bushes. What looked like something pointed at their party.
''Kira!'' Shouted Shiho, pulling out her own gun as a shot rang out. At the call of his name, Kira already had Lacus by the arm, ducking her behind trees. Athrun had Cagalli running for the doors to the conference room, which was only a few yards away. Their entourage had spread out, placing a protective circle around their group. Shiho had already run past them, chasing after the figure that darted out from behind the junipers. She knew Lacus was safe; no one else had a head's start on chasing the guy, so Shiho was on the pursuit. Other footsteps could be heard, trying to keep up with her own. Running in her spare time really helped on times like these. The only thing that didn't help was her uniform; her legs couldn't stride their usual stride. Her shoes were on the verge of slipping and causing a slip.
Another shot rang out, and Shiho could hear the shot chipping off a portion of the tree she ran past. An uneven patch of ground led to a small ledge. Shiho hoped the figure didn't see that and would trip, but it was a fool's hope. The fully-concealed assailant jumped that hurdle, running through the Attha grounds. She jumped the ledge, listening to a man behind her talking into his walkie-talkie. Hopefully that guy knew where the assailant was going; it was difficult to tell since she had never been here before.
To her dismay, the Attha grounds didn't have much obstacles for the figure to run into, so he surely had an easy way of escaping. Only the trees were creating hazards, as they got difficult to dodge. Shiho still kept on chasing, taking a chance that perhaps they would run out of breath and slow down. Behind her, footsteps disappeared, indicating that her fellow pursuers had long ran out of breath. The wall that led out of the Attha estate came into view behind some trees. Squinting, Shiho could see gunmen poise their guns in their general direction.
Another shot rang in her direction, and Shiho felt a swift presence pass her leg. That was too close.
Her quarry didn't seem to be slowing down, yet Shiho took the time to study their movements. From the gait and body silhouette, Shiho suspected that the figure was a natural; gender, male. He turned sharply into the trees and away from the now-firing guards. They reached the large wall of security and moreover to her displeasure, Shiho found a manhole uncovered near the perimeter, lid open. It was no rocket science. That was their portal of entry into the Attha grounds. Shiho mentally prepared the report she was going to say when she got back. Her legs ached, and her uniform felt too hot from all the running. Looking down, she noticed that her shoes looked a little beaten up. New shoes were needed.
'
The courtyard was slowly calming as Shiho returned. Kira held Lacus close. The songstress didn't show any nervousness at all, or fright; Shiho found her calming quality so admirable. Nothing could phase her demeanor. The entourage behind them were still alert, guns poised. Cagalli and Athrun were standing beside Lacus and Kira. Cagalli didn't look at all pleased and she paced every now and then in a furious huff.
''I don't know how this could have happened.'' she said angrily, her hands clenched. Athrun gently prised the fingers loose, and Cagalli stared at him, frustrated. ''The security is always flawless in here; nothing like this has happened before.'' Athrun gave a pat to her back, hoping to pacify. The four of them looked up as Shiho arrived.
''Well Shiho? Did you figure out anything?'' asked Kira in a stern tone. His eyes, however, looked expectant. They all wanted some good news.
Shiho sighed, feeling put-out. ''I'm sorry... He got away.'' she gave an apologetic grimance at all of them. ''There was a manhole cover just inside the estate, behind the perimeter where the look-outs are stationed. I couldn't run any faster to catch him.''
Lacus retrieved herself from Kira's embrace, peering up Shiho's face. ''It's okay, Shiho. We can find other clues later. The most important thing is, no one got hurt.'' she smiled encouragingly. ''Don't be hard on yourself.''
''We'll have people check for any clues around the area.'' said Athrun, placing his hands in his pockets. ''Lacus and Cagalli can first go to their meeting. I got a few calls I want to make later.'' he gestured for Cagalli to enter the building. Double doors were shut for now, yet curious heads peeked through a small window found on each door. ''No doubt the press will want to comment on what just happened.'' Athrun added, and Cagalli nodded in agreement.
''Alright Lacus.'' Kira said, beckoning Lacus inside. ''We'll let you meet with the representatives, then leave.''
Cagalli entered the conference room first, Athrun right behind her. Lacus then followed, with Shiho and Kira behind her. Shiho was in awe as she entered the large room.
It's sheer size had a 200-people capacity, generously illuminated with intricately decorated wrought-iron windows and wall sconces. The mahogany floors were highly polished to a reflective sheen, and the walls were painted a soft, mellow yellow. Potted native Orb plants were placed in various corners of the room. A large table was in the far end of the room, centered beneath a stone fireplace.
Before they could even get there however, security personnel were highly strained in controlling the paparazzi that greeted them on entry. The whole blockade didn't help the meeting, which had already been postponed for an hour. Cagalli and Lacus were natural in the spotlight, but Kira and Shiho winced as the flashbulbs continued to flash. Just beyond them, the four members of Orb's chair waited to greet them. From what Shiho could see, there was one woman, and three men.
Cagalli introduced the first one, Rondo Mina Sahaku, who had seen them through both wars. Mina Sahaku was tall; very composed, supposedly very same in looks as her fraternal deceased twin Ghina. The greeting between Lacus and Mina was cordial; there was clear sincerity in Mina Sahaku's wish that Lacus's stay would be safe.
The next to greet them was Kharo Ada Myo, who was a recent addition to Cagalli's shuffling of the 5 seats. He was middle 50's with freshly-looking dyed hair. Beside him was an enthusiastic Sozu Loriz Han, who appeared too jovial for his elderly age. Old Man Han (Cagalli introduced him as) made no attempt to hide his excitement at working with Sigel Clyne's daughter in order to continue the peace. After each chair was introduced, they made their way to their respective chairs.
Almost all of these representatives paid no attention to Kira or Shiho. However, as they reached the final member, a familiar face made Shiho slightly queasy. She had almost forgotten about this man, but clearly there was no escape. The light brown hair and green eyes were just a vague memory.
Cagalli cleared her throat. ''Finally, I want to introduce to you Fadein Selevi Vogel, another new addition.'' she turned and walked over to her place at the table. Lacus shook hands warmly. Fadein smiled a few words. Lacus turned to Kira, and both exchanged a goodbye. Lacus turned to Shiho, and mouthed a ''thanks''.
Shiho was almost thankful that she went unnoticed, but a hand held her back. Lacus was already sitting herself at the table, Cagalli looking pleased adjacent to her.
''Miss Hahnenfuss, I didn't know I'd see you here, of all places.'' Fadein Vogel whispered behind her, amidst the paparazzi still taking pictures of the seated representatives. Shiho could only shudder in disgust. His fingers wrapped firmly around her forearm.
''You're needed at the table, Mr. Vogel.'' said Shiho as politely as she could. In a short distance, she could see Kira watching her carefully. She twisted her arm out of his grasp swiftly. No need to get Kira's attention.
''I was hoping to get reacquainted.'' Fadein insisted, smiling his smile. Shiho instead looked away, smiling forcefully.
''Have a good day Mr. Vogel.'' and without a word Shiho crept to the back of the paparazzi, caught up to Kira, out through the doors, and mercifully back at the courtyard. Athrun was sitting on a bench waiting for them there, looking weary. He watched them approach and take a seat on either side of him.
''I have men patrolling the area right now, looking for any clues.'' said Athrun, as though his way of greeting them. ''Sorry, Kira. We don't know what could have happened.''
Kira clasped a hand to Athrun's shoulder. ''No one was hurt.'' However, his friend remained worried. ''That's just it, Kira. We know no one was hurt, but a threat's a threat.'' Athrun glanced at Shiho. ''You said there was a manhole cover he ran into to escape, right?'' Shiho nodded. ''I had a security guard check the surveillance cameras. There was no sign of anyone entering the grounds using that manhole.'' a suspicious look dawned on his face.
''So you're implying that whoever that assassin is, had some probable help on the inside.'' added Shiho, saying what all they were thinking out loud. ''But that's impossible, Cagalli's certainly purged all radicals, or at least whoever she could get her hands on.'' The incident is leaving a mark inside their heads already. The fact that someone still got close enough to shoot a gun at Lacus indicates that they're not fully out of danger yet. Like a reminder, that people were still out there, willing to risk the peace once again.
They stayed silent for a few minutes, balancing out a few ideas in their heads.
Athrun rubbed his temples. It looked like he could use a good strong cup of coffee. "I made a few phone calls, so people I know I can depend on will help with this investigation. They'll be coming over first thing tomorrow morning. Shiho, the guy I'm going to call over might be needing your help to put together a description on the attacker. Also, to ask around to see if they've seen anything suspicious around this morning. I really don't know around what time to say. There were no other reports of anything suspicious before 0600 hours.'' The three of them stared at the bushes where the assassin had been hidden.
Kira stood up, stretching. He didn't look pleased either. ''I'm going to look at the videos again.'' he said, getting up and stretching. ''Do you think I can leave Lacus with you for a bit just in case they finish early?''
Shiho nodded. ''Not a problem. We should be heading for the luncheon after the meeting.'' Athrun got up as well, holding up a hand to have Kira wait for him. ''I'll try to be back early, but just in case Cagalli finishes and I'm not there, please tell her I'll be back soon.'' he and Kira bid Shiho goodbye, and went in the direction of the security office, which was just outside the main house.
Alone now, Shiho could relax in her own thoughts. Barely her first day, and already something happens. She should stop thinking right there, before she thought of herself as a jinx. Isn't this was a welcome change though? Her presence wasn't ignored this time, and her work was currently being appreciated... Yet still, Shiho couldn't help wonder what was her ex-commander doing. Dearka better be doing okay without me there. You said you'd take care of everything. She smiled at the possible catastrophes they could possibly be up to.
Maybe, just maybe she missed him. Just a little bit.
She giggled at the idea that Yzak might have already gotten through his pile of paperwork already, but would be heavy with unrest. Being heavily tired is the culprit in making Yzak a bit grouchy that morning. Shiho would have gotten his coffee ready for him in the morning, along with his daily newspaper, to be currently up-to-date with events. As usual, he would dismiss her without a second look in her direction.
Shiho's face fell at the thought. Oh Yzak. If I knew myself better, I would understand what's going on.
Twittering birds answered her unspoken words. A cook breeze relaxed her head, making it blissfully comfortable. Unintentionally, Shiho managed to drift between consciousness and unconsciousness. The lack of sleep really hit her hard.
Voices emerged from the conference doors, making Shiho sit up in surprise. They were finished already? Shiho shrugged. Well it -was- just supposed to be a briefing on the current events with Orb, maybe there wasn't as much to talk about as expected? Shiho straightened out her wrinkled clothes; she pouted at her ruined shoes, and stood near the conference room entrance, looking eagerly for Lacus or Cagalli. Once again, to her misfortune-
''I'm glad that I could talk to you now, when I'm not busy.'' the man materialized in front of her out of the blue. Fadein Vogel was smiling widely, pleasure at seeing her written all over his face. Shiho winced as she imagined what that smile would look like on Yzak Jule. She peered around his head, still looking for Lacus. ''Could you believe it's fate that brought you within a close distance to me?''
Shiho rolled her eyes at the cliche line. ''I chose to be here; I'm not really a believer of fate. Everyone can choose their fate.'' She turned away from him, only to meet his face again, his tall frame looming over her. Paparazzi taking more pictures of the people leaving the room made it next to impossible to see the people she wanted to spot.
''I didn't think I would get to see you mature, Shiho.'' Fadein continued, ignoring her dismissal of him. ''Imagine my surprise to see you, particularly when you appear to have grown into such a fine specimen.'' he took her hands in his, looking dazzled by her.
''If you think that changes my mind, then I'm sorry, but no.'' Shiho figured Lacus and Cagalli were still talking with a few representatives within the room. For now, she could only tolerate so much of Fadein Vogel. ''You can only guess how surprised I got when I saw that you're a part of that representative group.''
He looked pleadingly into her eyes. ''Does that fact change your mind?'' Fadein's answer was Shiho ducking around him; she had spotted Lacus, emerging through the crowd with Cagalli, their eyes searching for their previous company. His eyes followed her a moment, before letting the crowd sweep him away in the direction of the luncheon.
As Shiho reached Cagalli and Lacus, a part of her wished profusely that things don't get any worse.
'
Groaning, Shiho realized that the sun was up once again. Lamentably, Shiho hadn't had much sleep that night either, since the buzzing of thoughts in her head just refused to shut themselves up. Not even to turn it down to just a small whisper.
Expecting to see the sun up, Shiho was surprised to see that the sky had darkened considerably. Rain was pouring in buckets, droplets the size of tapioca pearls. It was chilly and moist within her room, matching the weather outside. Shiho sat up in her bed, only to feel as though she were victim to a badly-planned hangover. Moaning in agony, Shiho check her watch. It was 0600 hours.
There was nothing in particular planned today, except to meet with the team Athrun called over from yesterday. Yesterday had been a bad dream. Once the luncheon had been over, reporters were clamouring to get into the estate, asking questions about what happened earlier morning. That day was also Shiho's first experience with dealing with pushy paparazzi (cameras were everywhere).
The icing on the cake was Vogel cornering her once again upon her exit from the washrooms. Kira was nearby that time, saving Shiho from increasing her frustration meter, and reaching her limits. He gave her the look of understanding, which gave her relief. It wouldn't be good at all if she ended up landing a punch on an Orb representative. At least she could count on Kira for some backup when needed.
At least he didn't ask her why Fadein Vogel was so interested in talking to her.
With much effort, Shiho got herself out of bed, stumbling over a few articles of clothing she failed to put away that night. Despite the gloomy darkness of her room, Shiho didn't bother turning the lights on; the darkness helped calm her thoughts. Taking a hot shower awoke the sleeping circulation around her body. It made her feel somewhat refreshed, and rejuvenated.
Dressed once more in her uniform and her new shoes (a maid had been kind enough to pick a pair up for her), Shiho exited her room. Judging by the silence of the other rooms and their shut doors, Lacus and Cagalli weren't up this early yet.
Treading softly, Shiho could hear faint voices coming from down the stairs. Getting closer to the bottom of the stairs, she could hear Athrun's and Kira's voices. Upon touching the bottom step, she recognized a voice that at first made her conclude that she was going insane. But there was no mistaking the shiver that just ran up and down her spine or the goosebumps that appeared on her skin when she heard his voice.
The same voice that was constantly replayed in her mind.
She spotted Kira and Athrun standing in front of a figure in a coat drenched with rain. Shiho took pleasure in seeing his face, and found herself staring upon those vividly blue eyes that never failed to hypnotize her to speechlessness.
No doubt the presence of Yzak Jule would make her focusing on work more difficult than before.
'
'
'
Author's Note: Bwahahaha! Yzak finally makes it to Shiho! -smiles, embarrassed at the echo's of ''finally!''- My bottom feels heavily used- I think it's on the verge of quitting sometime soon. I'm just glad I got to chapter 3, and I'll be having Yzak do cartwheels soon! (I wish) I completely made wikipedia my home for the past 3 weeks now. Time really flies by fast when you're having fun! Sadly I have to wait for another 2 weeks for the Gundam Seed set I ordered on E-bay... -sad face-
So, anyone else wants me to continue? Nothing like pressure to update to keep me updating! Please remain constructive thank you!
Til next time then!
C.A.